Like every event, there's more to it than what most of y'all think.
First of all, both these guys have a long history of contributing to COG as tech editors, event planners, AD's AAD's, etc. So it's not like a new guy ran off an old member.
Second, the real rift comes from the differences in doing the tech editor's job. There is a COG rule that says "no officer can profit from his position". This is really where the problem comes from, and if you've read the thread that led to Fred's resignation then you know that my tenure as a tech editor had the same issue. The simple fact is that MOB is technically correct, and Fred technically did break forum rules for industry member postings. Was it a grievous fault? Not in my opinion, but I didn't write the rules.
Third, Fred has been in this position for a long time. Made a bunch of forever contributions to the group, and the knowledge base on the c-14. But burnout comes with those years, And because of some firsthand knowledge I have, I have been expecting Fred's resignation for at least 2 years, as it was apparent to me then that he was "moving on". So to think that MOB drove Fred out isn't the case in full. Maybe the final excuse, but Fred's resignation was overdue based on the burnout syndrome.
MOB is from a time where all the good done between members was from the good of one's heart. This is a great concept, and if you attend a rally or an event you'll see someone with trouble of any kind is helped by all attendees in any manner they can, with no thought of remuneration. But imo opinion that's not feasable when you're upgrading hundreds of bikes. At that point it just can't be "given away", and Fred was of that opinion. Was a tech editor selling tech support video's a violation of COG's intent? That is for the officers to decide, and apparently they saw no problem with it. MOB, who didn't profit from the years of phone tech support (remember the old days?) did have a problem with it. Phone support is a HUGE time drain (personal experience talking). If considered in that manner, you see his point. So divergent opinions on how the tech editor position should be handled led to this rift.
COG is in a stage of Flux right now. some of the members more knowledgeable in the models are profiting because of the work / knowledge we've achieved. when the COG rules were written, and no internet existed, things were different. So I think this whole issue may cause the officers of COG to have to re-evaluate some of the rules.
My final point is to let y'all know that sadly, this kind of resignation isn't really all that uncommon. COG is a volunteer group, and those who volunteer on a national level are tasked with a whole 'nother job, that has $0.0 for the pay scale. You are expected to perform the position you volunteered for, and there are plenty of members who will make you work to prove it. The end result, one I've personally experienced, is burnout and bitterness. It becomes apparent in word and action. Fred is no exception; the simple fact that he's decided to cease even offering the video's is graphic proof of the bitterness he's feeling. Remember, the work is finished in making the videos. From here on any sales are gravy money. To deny that of the new c-14 owner is really just a manifestation of all the frustration he's now feeling. Throwing the baby out with the bathwater. Those who know MOB know how he feels in his frustrations and bitterness. I've seen it across the board... COG chewing up and spitting out it's most valuable contributors. Maybe it's time for term limits, to prevent that, but then the next issue is to find volunteers, which starts the whole downhill slide all over again.
So before you take sides or dogpile, think about it. It's easy to armchair the whole affair, a little different if you know the facts.
Steve
COG Forum
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