Constitution Laws

BYLAWS
OF


Social Club of St. Petersburg, Inc

A Nonprofit Corporation

12/12/18
ARTICLE I
OFFICES

            The principal office of the corporation, hereinafter referred to as the "Corporation," shall be located at the address set forth in the Articles of Incorporation. The Corporation may have such other offices, either within or without the State of Incorporation, as the Board of Directors may determine from time to time.        2500 - 34th. Street South, St Petersburg, Fl. 33707

ARTICLE II
MEMBERSHIP

            Section 1. Classes of Members. The Corporation shall have only one (1) class of membership. The Board of Directors members, shall be the voting members.

ARTICLE III
BOARD OF Directors

            Section 1. General Powers. The affairs of the Corporation shall be managed by the Board of Directors whose members shall have a fiduciary obligation to the Corporation.
            Section 2. Number, Term and Qualifications. The number of Directors shall be and no more than (8). The term of membership shall be for continuous three (3) year periods, unless removed. Those set forth in the original Articles of Incorporation shall comprise the original Board of Directors.
            Section 3. Regular Meetings. A regular meeting of the Board of Directors shall be held each month, except May .June, July, August. The Board of Directors may provide, by resolution, the time and place for holding additional regular meetings without other notice than such resolution. Additional regular meetings shall be held at the principal office of the Corporation in the absence of any designation in the resolution. All meetings will be held in accordance to ROBERTS RULES OF ORDER
            Section 4. Special Meetings. Special meetings of the Board of Directors may be called by the President, vice President, or at least (3) directors, and shall be held at the principal office of the Corporation or at such other place as the Directors may determine
            Section 5. Notice. Notice of the annual, regular or any special meeting of the Board of Directors shall be given by oral notice to each director. The attendance of a director at any meeting shall constitute a waiver of notice of such meeting, except where a director attends a meeting for the express purpose of objecting to the transaction of any business because the meeting is not lawfully called or convened. The business to be transacted at the meeting need not be specified in the notice or waiver of notice of such meeting, unless specifically required by law or by these Bylaws.
            Section 6. Quorum. A majority of the Board of Directors shall constitute a quorum, for the transaction of business at any meeting of the Board; but if less than a majority of the Directors are present at any meeting, a majority of the Directors present may adjourn the meeting from time to time without further notice.
            Section 7. Board Decisions. The act of a majority of the Directors present at a meeting at which a quorum is present shall be the act of the Board of Directors, unless the act of a greater number is required by law or by these Bylaws.
            Section 8. Vacancies, Additions, Elections and Removal. Any vacancy occurring in the Board of Directors and any directorship to be filled by reason or an increase in the number of Directors, shall be filled by a two-third (2/3) majority vote of the Board of Directors.
            Section 9. Compensation. Directors, as such, shall not receive any salaries for their services.

ARTICLE IV
OFFICERS

            Section 1. Officers. The officers of the corporation shall be a President, a Secretary, a Orator, a Treasurer, and one or more Vice‑Presidents and such other officers as may be elected in accordance with the provisions of this Article. The Board of Directors may elect or appoint such other officers, including one or more assistant secretaries and one or more assistant treasurers, as it shall deem desirable, such officers to have the authority and perform the duties prescribed, from time to time, by the Board of Directors. .
            Section 2. Election and Term of Office. The officers of the Corporation shall be elected every three years by the Board of Directors at the meeting of the Board of Directors. If the election of officers is not held at such meeting, such election shall be held as soon thereafter as is convenient. New offices may be created and filled at any meeting of the Board of Directors. Each officer shall hold office until his successor has been duly elected and qualified.
            Section 3. Removal. Any officer elected or appointed by the Board of Directors may be removed by a majority of the Board of Directors whenever in its judgment the best interests of the Corporation would be served thereby, but such removal shall be without prejudice to the contract rights, if any, of the officer so removed.
            Section 4. Vacancies. A vacancy in any office because of death, resignation, removal, disqualification, or otherwise, may be filled by the Board of Directors for the unexpired portion of the term.

            Section 5. Powers of Officers.
                        (a) The President: The President shall be the chief executive officer of the Corporation. He/She shall be a continuing member of the Board of Directors. He/She shall have general management of the business of the Corporation and general supervision of the other officers. He/She shall preside at all meetings of the Board of Directors and see that all orders and resolutions of the Board are carried into effect, subject, however, to the right of the Board to delegate to any other officer or officers of the Corporation any specific powers, other than those that may be conferred only upon the President. He/She shall execute in the name of the Corporation all deeds, bonds, mortgages, contracts and other documents authorized by the Board of Directors. He/She shall be ex‑officio a member of all standing committees, and shall have the authority to spend no more than $1000.00 without board approval.
                        (b) Vice President: The Vice President shall perform the duties and exercise the powers of the President in case of his temporary absence from the office of the Corporation, and shall perform such other duties as may from time to time be granted or imposed by the Board of Directors.
                        (c) Secretary: The Secretary shall attend all sessions of the Board held at the office of the Corporation and act as clerk thereof and record all votes and the minutes of all proceedings in a book to be kept for that purpose. He/She shall perform like duties for the executive and standing committees when required. He/She shall give, or cause to be given, notice of meetings of the Board of Directors when notice is required to be given under these Bylaws or by any resolution of the Board. He/She shall have custody of the seal to all authorized documents requiring the seal. He/She shall keep the membership rolls of the Corporation, and in general perform the duties usually incident to the office of Secretary, and such further duties as shall from time to time be prescribed by the Board of Directors or the President.
                        (d) Treasurer: The Treasurer shall keep full and accurate account of the receipts and disbursements in books belonging to the Corporation, and shall deposit all moneys and other valuable effects in the name and to the credit of the Corporation in such banks and depositories as may be designated by the Board of Directors, but shall not be personally liable for the safekeeping of any funds or securities so deposited pursuant to the order of the Board. He/She shall disburse the funds of the Corporation as may be ordered by the Board and shall render to the President and Directors at the regular meeting of the Board, and whenever they may be required, accounts of all his transactions as Treasurer and of the financial condition of the Corporation. He/She shall perform the duties usually incident to the office of the Treasurer and such other duties as may be prescribed by the Board of Directors or by the President.
                        (e) Orator: the Orator shall attend all sessions of the board, held at the office of the corporation and act as the authority on the interpretation and enforcement of all articles of the by-laws. In addition the Orator will also enforce the interpretation of Roberts rules of order at all meetings
                        (f) Delegating Powers to Other Officers: In case of the absence of any officer of the Corporation, or for any other reason that may seem sufficient to the Board, the Board of Directors may delegate those duties and powers for the time being to any other officer, or to any director.

                        (g) Chief Operating Officer: To manage the day to day activities of the organization, the board will retain the services of a Chief Operating Officer. This office is a nonvoting position, although it may be filled by a board member. In it addition, the position serves at the pleasure of the Board and will be entrusted with the management of the organization.

ARTICLE V
COMMITTEES AND BOARD OF ADVISORS

            Section 1. Committees and Directors. The Board of Directors, by resolution adopted by a majority of the Directors in office, may designate one or more committees, which committees, to the extent provided in such resolution, shall have and exercise the authority of the Board of Directors in the management of the Corporation; but the designation of such committees and the delegation thereto of authority shall not operate to relieve the Board of Directors, or any individual director, of any responsibility imposed on it or him by law.
            Section 2. Other Committees. Other committees not having and exercising the authority of the Board of Directors in the management of the Corporation may be designated by a resolution adopted by a majority of the Directors present at a meeting at which a quorum is present. The President shall appoint the members thereof. Any member thereof may be removed by the President whenever in his judgment the best interest of the Corporation shall be served by such removal.
            Section 3. Board of Advisors. A Board of Advisors may be appointed as set forth below. It shall be the responsibility and privilege of the Board of Advisors to provide counsel to the President and to the Board of Directors. Counsel shall be organizational, financial, legal or other areas wherein the President determines professional counsel is needed and/or desirable. No minimum or maximum number of members of the Board of Advisors shall be established and the appointment of the Board of Advisors and tenure thereon shall be at the pleasure and in the complete discretion of the President.

ARTICLE VI
CONTRACTS, CHECKS, DEPOSITS AND FUNDS

            Section 1. Contracts. The Board of Directors may authorize any officer or officers, agents or agents of the Corporation, in addition to the officers so authorized by these Bylaws, to enter into any contract or execute and deliver any instrument in the name of and on behalf of the Corporation, and such authority may be general or may be confined to specific instances.
            Section 2. Checks, Drafts or Orders. All checks, drafts or orders for the payment of money, notes or other evidences of indebtedness issued in the name of the Corporation shall be signed by such officer or officers, agent or agents of the Corporation, and in such manner as shall from time to time be determined by resolution of the Board of Directors. In the absence of such determination by the Board of Directors, such instruments may be signed by either the Treasurer or the President of the Corporation.
            Section 3. Deposits. All funds of the Corporation shall be deposited from time to time to the credit of the Corporation in such banks, trust companies, or other depositories as the Board of Directors may select.
            Section 4. Gifts. The Board of Directors may accept on behalf of the Corporation any contribution, gift, bequest or devise for any purpose of the Corporation.

ARTICLE VII
BOOKS AND RECORDS

            The Corporation shall keep correct and complete books and records of account and shall also keep minutes of the proceeding of its Board of Directors, committees having and exercising any of the authority of the Board of Directors, and any other committee, and shall keep at the principal office a record giving the names and addresses of the Board of Directors members entitled to vote. All books and records of the cooperation, which could be kept electronically, may be inspected by any member or agent for any proper purpose at any reasonable time.

ARTICLE VIII
FISCAL YEAR

            The fiscal year of the Corporation shall be the calendar year.

ARTICLE IX
DISSOLUTION

            (a)        Upon the dissolution of the Corporation, the Board of Directors shall, after the payment of all the liabilities of the Corporation, dispose of all of the assets of the Corporation exclusively for the purposes of the Corporation in such manner, or to such organization or organizations organized and operated exclusively for charitable, educational, religious or scientific purposes as shall qualify as an exempt corporation or organization under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (or of the corresponding provisions of any future United States Revenue Law) as the Board of Directors shall determine.
            (b)        No part of the net earnings of the Corporation shall inure to the benefit of, or be distributable to, its members, officers, directors, or any person except that the Corporation shall be authorized and empowered to pay reasonable compensation for services rendered, and to make payments in the furtherance of the Corporation. Notwithstanding any other provisions of the Articles of Incorporation or these Bylaws of the Corporation, the Corporation shall not carry on any activity not permitted to be carried on (a) by a corporation exempt from federal income tax, under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, (or by the corresponding section of any future Revenue Code of the United States of America) or (b) by a corporation, contributions to which are deductible under Section 170(c)(2) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (or the corresponding section of any future United States revenue law).

ARTICLE X
SEAL

            The Board of Directors shall provide a corporate seal, which shall be set forth below.

ARTICLE XI
AMENDMENT OF BYLAWS

            These Bylaws may be altered, amended or repealed, and new Bylaws may be adopted by a two‑thirds (2/3) majority vote of the Board of Directors at any regular or special meeting of the Board of Directors. At least fourteen (14) days written advance notice of said meeting shall be given to each member of the Board of Directors.

            Adopted by the full Board of Directors this 19 day of December 2018.



STANDING RULES
FOR THE SOCIAL CLUB OF ST PETERSBURG

STANDING RULES REQUIRE THE FOLLOWING IN ORDER TO PASS AND BE EFFECTIVE
A PROPOSAL OF A RULE CHANGE MAY BE MADE BY A COUNCIL MEMBER OR ANY MEMBER.
THE PROPOSED CHANGE WILL BE DISCUSSED AT THE COUNCIL MEETING IT IS PROPOSED AT, OR AT THE NEXT COUNCIL MEETING IF PROPOSED BY A MEMBER AT A MEMBER MEETING.
A YES OR NO VOTE BY A MAJORITY OF THE COUNCIL IS NECESSARY.
IF A YES VOTE IS MADE THE PROPOSAL BECOMES PART OF THE STANDING RULES, AND LAW.
THE PROPOSED CHANGE OR CHANGES ARE PRESENTED TO THE MEMBERS AT THE NEXT MEMBER MEETING AS INFORMATION ONLY AT WHICH TIME IT BECOMES EFFECTIVE.
PUBLICATION IN THE NEWS LETTER, OR MEMBER INTERNET COMMUNICATION IS NECESSARY IN ORDER TO INFORM ALL MEMBERS OF A CHANGE IN THE STANDING RULES.
A NO VOTE INDICATES THE PROPOSED RULE CHANGE IS DEAD.

STANDING RULES publishes March 2015

SCHOLARSHIP: (J.DEE/14) CHILDREN AND OR GRAND CHILDREN OF MEMBERS LIVING LOCALLY OR OUT OF STATE, OR LOCAL COMMUNITY HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS ONLY MAY APPLY FOR SCHOLARSHIPS. LOCAL COMMUNITY HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS MUST HAVE MAINTAINED A (B) OR BETTER AVERAGE DURING THE SENIOR YEAR.

POLITICAL REPRESENTATIVE: NO POLITICAL FIGURE IS TO USE THE LODGE FOR CAMPAIGN PURPOSES.

ILLNESS: (EF) A MEMBER WHOM IS SICK, AT HOME OR IN THE HOSPITAL, WILL RECEIVE A GET WELL CARD BY THE SUNSHINE CHAIRPERSON WHEN THE INDIVIDUAL IS IDENTIFIED.

DECEASED MEMBERS: THE SOCIAL CLUB WILL PROVIDE A DELEGATION FOR THE MEMORIAL SERVICE ONLY IF REQUESTED BY THE FAMILY OF THE DECEASED

OPENING (J.DEE/14) THE DOORS WILL BE OPEN ON MONDAY, WEDNESDAY, AND THURSDAY FROM 11:00 TO 8:00PM, STAFF AVAILABILITY. THE CARD ANNEX ARE AVAILABLE 7 DAYS A WEEK ALL YEAR LONG TO MEMBERS IN GOOD STANDING ONLY.

RAFFLE TICKETS: (J.DEE/14) THE LODGE, WILL NOT ACCEPT RAFFLE TICKETS FROM ANY OTHER ORGANIZATION UNLESS APPROVED BY THE BOARD IN ADVANCE OF SALES.

RENTING: (J.DEE/12) THE MAIN HALL SHALL BE RENTED TO ANY ORGANIZATION OR PERSONS AT A COST OF $185.00 PER HOUR, WITH A FOUR-HOUR MINIMUM. THE PRICE INCLUDES THE USE OF THE MAIN HALL, KITCHEN WITH A COOK, AND CLEAN UP. MEMBERS MAY RENT THE FACILITY, FOR $110.00 PER HOUR; THE PRICE INCLUDES THE USE OF THE MAIN HALL, KITCHEN WITH A COOK AND CLEANING. SECURITY IS TO BE PROVIDED BY THE RENTER.

FINANCIAL REPORTS: (EF) MEMBERS MAY REVIEW AT THE GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING THE FINANCIAL REPORT AS PRESENTED. THE REPORT MUST REMAIN WITHIN THE CONFINES OF THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY’S DESK.

PROPERTY: THE SOCIAL CLUB OF ST. PETERSBURG DOES NOT LEND ANY ITEM THAT IS THE PROPERTY OF THE SOCIAL CLUB.

TICKETS: (AC) (1/2006) THERE WILL BE NO REFUND OF MONIES FOR TICKETS PAID WITHIN 7 DAYS OF THE SAID FUNCTION. HOWEVER, PAID DINNERS MAY BE PICKED UP AS TAKE OUT. ALL MONEY WILL BE TURNED IN ON WEDNESDAY BY 3:00P.M, PRIOR TO THE FUNCTION.

EXPENDITURES: (AC) (1/2006) CHAIR PERSONS AND OR MEMBERS HAVING REIMBURSEMENTS FOR EXPENDITURES SHALL BE PAID BY CHECK WITHIN FIVE DAYS OF THE EXPENDITURE. THE PRESIDENT MAY APPROVE PAYMENTS UP TO $300.00, THE COUNCIL MUST APPROVE PAYMENTS IN EXCESS OF $301.00 AND THE AUTHORIZE PAYMENT.

AWARDS: PERSONAL ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS TO ANY MEMBER SHALL BE DISPLAYED IN THE MAIN HALL IN A DESIGNATED AREA SELECTED BY THE PRESIDENT

BY LAWS: (J.DEE/14) COPIES OF THE BY LAWS AND STANDING RULES WILL BE PUBLISHED ON THE WEB PAGE. LIMITED COPIES ARE AVAILABLE IN EMERGENCIES.

ADVISORY BOARD (AC 2006) THE ADVISORY BOARD IF CONVENED SHALL CONSIST OF ALL PAST PRESIDENTS, WHO IF CALLED UPON SHALL ASSIST AND ADVISE THE PRESIDENT IN MATTERS OF IMPORTANCE CONCERNING THE GOOD AND WELFARE OF THE LODGE.

APPLICATION AND INITIATION: (AC) (5/2006) (J.DEE/14)
EACH APPLICANT FOR MEMBERSHIP MUST COMPLETE A SEPARATE APPLICATION AND PAY THE APPROPRIATE ANNUAL DUES. THE APPLICATION IS THEN BROUGHT BEFORE THE COUNCIL, IF ACCEPTED THE APPLICANT IS ACCEPTED AS A MEMBER, IF DENIED THE APPLICANT’S FEE WILL BE RETURNED.

CARD PLAYING RULES: (J.DEE/14)
THERE SHALL BE NO MONEY ON THE TABLE.
SEATING AT CARD TABLES WILL BE BY LUCK OF THE DRAW
PAID UP MEMBERS ONLY ARE ALLOWED TO PLAY.
STANDING RULES WILL PREVAIL IN THE EVENT OF A DISPUTE.

HONORARY MEMBERS (EF) (2/2000) (AC 11/2009)
PAY A TOKEN ANNUAL FEE AS DETERMINED BY THE COUNCIL AT THE OCTOBER MEETING, IN PLACE OF DUES.

FUND RAISING FUNCTIONS:  ARE NOT FREE, ALL MEMBERS, INCLUDING VOLUNTEERS, WILL PAY THE POSTED PRICE.

*VOLUNTEER MEALS (AC 11/2009) (CP) (9/2010) (J.DEE/14)
VOLUNTEERS, VOLUNTEERING FOR A FUNCTION SUCH AS PASTA DINNERS, OR SPECIALTY PASTA NIGHT WILL RECEIVE THEIR MEAL FREE OF CHARGE INCLUDING A BEVERAGE PROVIDED BY THE BAR TENDER. IN ADDITION, A THANK YOU FOR VOLUNTEERING.

COUNCIL MEETINGS (AC 11/09) (J.DEE/14 COUNCIL MEETING WILL BE COMBINED WITH THE MEMBER MEETING AND RUN CONCURRENTLY.

BEREAVEMENT, THE DEATH OF A PRESIDENT (AC 11/2009)
A STANDARD FARE BEREAVEMENT WILL BE PROVIDED TO THE FAMILY AT NO COST. ANY ADDITIONS TO THE STANDARD FAIR OR BEVERAGES FROM THE BAR WILL BE BILLED AT THE STANDARD COST AS POSTED FOR THAT DATE.

STANDARD FARE INCLUDES

CHICKEN SALAD SANDWICH, (CHICKEN, AND CELERY.)
HAM SALAD SANDWICH (HAM CHOPPED, CELERY, PEPPER)
CRAB MEAT SANDWICH (CRAB MEAT CELERY, PEPPER)
ONE BOWL TOSS SALADS
COFFEE, REG. DECAF
DANISH
SMALL FINGER ROLLS, 3 rolls per person
(All excess food is packed and given to the family)

Social Club Of Saint Petersburg
2500 34th Street South 33711

Constitution By-laws Standing Rules

PREAMBLE
We, the members of the SOCIAL CLUB OF ST. PETERSBURG, a fraternal ORGANIZATION, being a part of the United States of America, which we serve at all times with undivided devotion, and to whose progress we dedicate ourselves; united in the belief in God; conscious of being a representative element of an old civilization which has contributed to the enlightenment of the human spirit, and which through our activities, institutions and customs may enrich and broaden the pattern of the American way of life; realizing that through an intelligent and constant exercise of civic duties and rights, and obedience to the constitution of the United States, we uphold and strengthen this Republic, in order to make known our objectives and insure their attainment through the harmonious functioning of all the parts of our ORGANIZATION.
THE SOCIAL CLUB OF ST PETERSBURG do hereby establish the following as our CONSTITUTION:

ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION
The ORGANIZATION will be incorporated under the laws of the State of Florida.

ARTICLE one PURPOSE

The purposes of this organization shall be:
To enroll in its membership all members of the community and all others as prescribed in Article 10 of the General Laws.
To promote community unity and support by participating in the civic life of our communities.
To initiate and organize movements for patriotic and humanitarian purposes, thereby establishing a motto of “Equality for all.”

ARTICLE two, EMBLEM, MOTTO, COLOR, LANGUAGE, AND OFFICES

the emblem of the Order shall be crossed American and Italian flags in a field of white. The motto shall be “Equality for all.” . The official language of the Order shall be both English and Italian and each may be used in the course of meetings. The Home Office shall be in the ST PETERSBURG, FLORIDA

ARTICLE three GOVERNANCE

The laws of the ORGANIZATION include:
The Constitution General Laws and Judicial Code

ARTICLE four GOVERNMENT

The governing powers of the ORGANIZATION shall be vested in three separate and distinct branches: Executive, Legislative and Judicial.

ARTICLE five STRUCTURE

The structure of the ORGANIZATION is composed of members. The members have rights and obligations, which the ORGANIZATION, by virtue of the powers conferred to it by these laws, administer, and control the organization. The members also have the right to elect a COUNCIL to operate the organization and make all decisions in their absence.

The ORGANIZATION functions and operates within the limits of its locality. The organization is a constituent part of the State of Florida, and is subordinate to such state. However, the ORGANIZATION, unless restricted by state law is autonomous and may administer its affairs under such rules and regulations adopted by it which do not conflict with any of the laws applicable to it.

ARTICLE six EXECUTIVE POWER

The executive power shall be exercised by the ORGANIZATION (i.e. members). The executive power of the ORGANIZATION, when the assembly is not in session, shall be exercised by its Council.

ARTICLE seven LEGISLATIVE POWER

The legislative power, i.e., the power to make and promulgate laws and to adopt amendments thereto, shall be exercised by The ORGANIZATION while in session

A two third vote by members present is required for passage, for all matters concerning the rights and obligations of the members; provided the laws made and promulgated, together with all amendments thereto, are not in conflict with the laws of the State of Florida, its Counties, or Local Government.

ARTICLE eight JUDICIARY POWER

the judiciary power, in the application of corrective and disciplinary measures when violations occur, shall be governed by and pursuant to the provisions of the Judicial Code.

ARTICLE nine AMENDMENTS TO THE CONSTITUTION
The Constitution or any amendments of the ORGANIZATION may be amended whenever a proposal is made, and notice is given to the recording Secretary, 60 days in advance of a general meeting. Constitution and /or amendment changes, require the approval by two-thirds (2/3) of the members in attendance when the ORGANIZATION is duly assembled.

The House Rules, Judicial Code may be amended whenever a majority of the COUNCIL is assembled. A majority vote by the council is needed to amend HOUSE RULES with a 60-day waiting period, to provide all member notification.

ARTICLE ten GENERAL LAWS
REQUISITES AND QUALIFICATIONS
Sec.1. Admission to membership in the ORGANIZATION is to enroll all members of the Community.
Applicants for membership shall be a minimum age of 18 years
Applications for memberships shall be made upon an official
application, signed
By the applicant; and this application shall bear the signature of a
sponsor, who
Vouches that the applicant has all of the required qualifications for
membership,
As provided for in the Constitution and these laws.
The membership becomes official upon acceptance by the ORGANIZATION.
The Applicant shall be required to pay assessments as established by the ORGANIZATION.
The application must be submitted for a majority vote of the assembly of the ORGANIZATION

CLASSIFICATION

sec. 2. All members of the ORGANIZATION shall be known as “Members.” The members shall be divided into the following classes:
Regular members
Family members
Honorary members
Associate members

“Regular Members” are single members who could be of any descent. A regular member has full voting privileges, can hold any office, and is entitled to all discounts.
Family membership will consist of a husband and wife who could be of any descent.
Individual family member can hold any office, have full voting privileges, moreover, are entitled to all discounts.
Honorary Members”. The names of honorary members are to be inscribed in the Roll of Honor, which consists of a permanent record kept by the ORGANIZATION. To the Roll of Honor, shall likewise be inscribed the names of the Past Presidents living and deceased Initiation to honorary membership shall be restricted to men and women, distinguished in learning, outstanding in achievement, or conspicuous in cultural attainments, who have given proof of their sympathy and good will toward the ORGANIZATION, its principles and ideals. An appropriate certificate to be presented to the honorary member at the initiation ceremony shall evidence the nomination to honorary membership. The initiation ceremony is to be marked by appropriate solemnity. The presentation of the certificate is to be made by the sitting President of the ORGANIZATION, with the full assembly in session.
“Associate Members” are those who are not full members but are willing to spend a minimum of fifteen times annually providing a monetary value for the betterment of the Organization. Associate members will pay an appropriate portion of the dues as addressed by the council when in session at the October meeting. Associate members do not have voting privileges, cannot hold office, nor are they entitled to the use of the facilities or member discounts.

All members shall be required to pay an application fee and assessments fee, even if this member is an active working member of the ORGANIZATION.

DUTIES OF MEMBERS

Sec.3. All members are required to perform the following duties:
To obey and respect the authorities of the Order
To pay dues and assessments
To obey all the laws of the organization
To assist in the work of the organization
To settle any grievances that may arise by submitting this grievance to the proper authorities of the ORGANIZATION, or to the assembly of the ORGANIZATION while in session.
No member of the ORGANIZATION shall resort to any civil court to enforce any claim, demand, right or cause of action which the member may have against the ORGANIZATION, or its members , or against any of the officers as such, unless and until the member shall have pursued and exhausted all remedies provided by the laws of the ORGANIZATION.

It shall be the duty of each member of the ORGANIZATION to give testimony in cases to be determined by the judiciary authority. Whenever such member is called upon to give testimony, the member may not claim exemption. If such member refuses to appear when summoned or to testify when requested, the member’s actions shall be referred to the council to be dealt with in conformity.

RIGHTS OF REGULAR and FAMILY MEMBERS

Sec.4. The regular or family members may participate in discussions; make proposals; vote on matters discussed; be elected to office; receive any benefits the ORGANIZATION may adopt; and any other rights or privileges accorded.

LIMITATIONS ON RIGHTS

Sec.5.The necessary qualifications for election to any office, and the necessary qualifications for election to any office.

Any salaried employee of the ORGANIZATION may not hold any elected or appointed office,

It is necessary that a member serve one full term in any position, or having fulfilled a full term as president in any other similar ORGANIZATION.

A regular or Family member may be deprived of the right to speak by the presiding officer at a meeting whenever such member is:
Not in good standing with the payment of dues and assessments.
Suspended by ORGANIZATION, or the council.
Requested to be orderly by the presiding officer and fails to comply with such request.
Persistent in taking the floor without first obtaining permission from the presiding officer.

EXPULSION FROM A MEETING

Sec.6. The presiding officer may order the Vice President to expel a member from the hall when:
Such member persists in wanting to speak after the floor has been denied to the member.
Such member is under the influence of a mind-altering substance.
Such member provokes disorder during the course of the meeting.

SUSPENSION AND REMOVAL

sec.7 .A Trial Commissioner or the council may impose suspension of rights and privileges or removal of suspension from office in accordance with the judicial procedures of the Judicial Code of the ORGANIZATION upon a member or officer who:
Fails to obey an order duly given.
Is insolently self-demeaning and incites violent discussions or aggressive behavior.
Uses profane, foul or opprobrious language in addressing officers or members during the course of meetings.
Attends meetings while under the influence of mind-altering substances and creates a disturbance while the meeting is in progress.
Fails to confine remarks to subjects of an impersonal nature that reflect the life, activities and progress of the ORGANIZATION when visiting other facilities or organizations.
Habitually neglects the performance of duties of the office.
Misuses or abuses the power or prerogatives of the office to the injury and damage of the ORGANIZATION, an officer, or a member.
Has been twice fined before.
Provokes disorder during the course of meetings, festivals and celebrations.
Insults or slanders officers or members at meetings or elsewhere.
Falsely defames members in their character, reputation or profession.
Refuses to testify, when summoned, in the judiciary proceedings of the Order.
Incites hatred, contempt and ridicule for the ORGANIZATION, its officers or its Members.
Reveals or publishes documents, reports, deliberations, motions and other information of a confidential nature, the revelation or publication of which has been previously censored by a ranking officer of the Organization.
Misuses or causes to be misused funds. Through neglect of duty or want of surveillance.
Refuses to supply documents and information requested by higher-ranking officers of the ORGANIZATION, which are to be used in judicial proceedings, in the administration of the affairs of the ORGANIZATION or in the course of investigations.
Has willfully and maliciously misapplied or abused the laws of the ORGANIZATION to the injury and damage officer or member

EXPULSION FROM THE ORGANIZATION

Sec.8 Expulsion from the ORGANIZATION may be imposed upon a member or officer, in accordance with the Judicial Code of the Order, following a verdict against them in the following classes of cases:
Two previous suspensions from office under the Judicial Code.
Conviction in a Court of Record for any crime of violence, felony, or crime involving moral turpitude or conviction for any offense reflecting upon the member or officers honesty or loyalty to the United States Government.
Commits fraud in gaining admittance to membership into the ORGANIZATION.
Makes false statements or willful misrepresentation in the application for membership into the Order.
Fails to disclose facts, which disqualified the member at the time of the member’s admittance to membership, particularly if such member had been convicted for any crime of violence by any Court of Record.
Libels, defames or slanders the ORGANIZATION, its officers, its institutions, or its members.
Commits fraud, misappropriation of funds, theft, obtains money or other things of value under false pretense, or other crime, which act or acts are committed to the injury or damage of the ORGANIZATION,
Refuses to abide by the deliberations or to comply with the orders of the council
Destroys, falsifies, alters, secretes, gives away or absconds with any record, book of account, minute book and document of whatsoever nature, which may be the property of the ORGANIZATION; or incites any officer or member in the perpetration of any such act.
Fosters, promotes, organizes, or takes part in fostering, promotion or organization of any association, corporation or society whose purposes are antagonistic to those of the ORGANIZATION.
Publishes or reveals, verbally or in writing, the contents of any documents, communications or other confidential information, the publication or revelation of which was previously censored or proscribed.
Refuses to carry into effect executor sentences, orders or decrees issued under the provisions of the laws of the ORGANIZATION.
Professes any doctrine, which advocates the unlawful overthrow of the social order or the Government by force or violence.
Professes hostility to the Government of the United States of America and to the Constitution thereof.
Incites, induces or encourages members or officers, by any means or any place whatsoever, to secede from the ORGANIZATION or to bring about the dissolution, or become a member of any association, corporation or society whose object is to undermine and destroy the ORGANIZATION either in completely or in part.

DEFAULTS, CANCELLATIONS AND RESIGNATIONS

sec.9. Any member of the ORGANIZATION in arrears, when such person (s) have not paid the current dues, fines and assessments, and the person (s) are in default, when in arrears with the payment of dues, fines and assessments for a period of one month after payment is due.
The consequences of being in arrears are
Loss of the privilege of the floor, the right to vote, the loss of the use of the facilities, and loss of the right to run for office or to hold office. A member is in default when by 30 DAYS after the bill date payment is due, does not remove the cause of such default shall be stricken from the rolls of membership.

REINSTATEMENT

Sec.10. Any application for reinstatement accompanied by prepayment of one year’s dues may be approved, without payment of an admission fee. The member, when reinstated, need not be initiated and will acquire all rights and privileges extended other members after readmission, provided said member meets all of the requirements governing reinstatement.

ADMISSION OF OTHER ORGANIZATIONS

Sec.11. Fraternal societies and other associations may be admitted into the ORGANIZATION, only with the consent of the council after due inquiries, the certification of the membership, and in compliance with the normal application procedure. (sec1). The ORGANIZATION shall encourage admission of fraternal societies and other associations into the ORGANIZATION, except in those situations wherein admission would be contrary to the best interests and welfare of the ORGANIZATION.

JUNIOR DIVISION

Sec.12. The COUNCIL shall have the power to organize Juvenile divisions together with such rules and regulations as are necessary to govern, the requirements for admission to junior membership, the dues to be paid, the benefits to be received, the activities to be promoted, and the mode of organization management and control of the Juvenile Local Lodge.

ORGANIC STRUCTURE

Sec.13. The organic structure of the ORGANIZATION shall be composed of the Council, which shall govern the affairs of the Local Lodge.
The Council is the administrative and controlling body of the ORGANIZATION when the assembly is not in session. The Council has the power to administer and control the affairs of the ORGANIZATION, but not the power to impose new assessments. The Council shall not incur expenses other than those necessary for the administration of the regular affairs of the ORGANIZATION. In case of emergency, the Council, by a majority vote thereof, may appropriate a sum of money, not to exceed $300.00 with which to meet expenses incidental to such emergency; and the appropriation so made shall be reported to the assembly at its next meeting. The Council shall have neither the power to change or modify the deliberations of the assembly.

Sec.13A. Oath of Office:
PLEASE RAISE YOUR RIGHT HAND

"God of our ancestors and Lord of mercy, you have made all things. And in your providence have charged us to rule the creatures produced by you, and to govern the Social Club of St. Petersburg in holiness and righteousness, and to render judgment with integrity of heart.

Give us wisdom, for we are your servants, weak and short-lived, lacking in comprehension of judgment and of laws. Indeed, though now with you is wisdom, who knows your will and was there when you made the world, who understands what is pleasing in your eyes, what is conformable with your commands.

From your glorious throne, dispatch the knowledge, and work with this council, guided by the “by laws” of this organization, and the laws of the State of Florida, that we may grasp what is pleasing to you. For you alone know and understands all things and will guide us prudently in our affairs and safeguard us by your glory."

So help you God

Sec. 13B. Nomination procedure:

At a member meeting any member including a board member can nominate a person for the position that is posted for nomination.

The Vice President usually is the appointed individual to call for nomination to various positions. In the event the Vice President is absent the sitting President will appoint a board member to officiate the nominations.

The nominated individual will be asked if they accept the position that they are nominated for. A “yes or no” is required.

Several members can be nominated for a single position during the nomination process. If there are several persons nominated to a single position, the membership will through secret ballot vote for a single candidate at the February membership meeting.

In the remote instance that there are no nominations for a position the position will remain vacant. The newly elected President, after taking office can then appoint an individual of his choice to the vacant position.

Nominations are always held in January, elections in February. EXCEPT WHERE there is more than one nomination for a single or multiple position (s), then elections is held in March

If there is only one person nominated for a position, then the secretary in February will cast one vote for each person nominated, naming that person and position, as a single person for a single position. That person takes office immediately.

The following past presiding officers will remain as mentors and advisors with the newly appointed officers for three months, March, April, and October, assisting and guiding the newly appointed person through the motions of office.
Past President,
Past vice president
Past Recording secretary
Past Treasurer

The newly appointed officer has the final decision on all matters as it pertains to the office he or she holds.

The newly elected President on the day he or she takes office must appoint the following chairpersons.

Ticket sales
Entertainment
House party and picnic
Building maintenance

Within 30 days thereafter the following chairpersons must be appointed. The previously appointed chairpersons will remain in position awaiting
re appointment.
Cards
La Voce
Kitchen
Sunshine
Membership

Sec.14. unless otherwise provided the ORGANIZATION shall hold its election during the month of February of the year that elections are necessary. At such election, the assembly is to elect:
The President
The Vice President
The Orator
The Recording Secretary
The Treasurer
Three to Five Trustees

The Council is constituted of the President, the Vice President, the Immediate Past President, the Orator, the Recording Secretary, the Treasurer, and the elected Trustees.
The Council meets in ordinary session once each month and in special session whenever the meeting is called by the President or at the written request of five of its members.
Whenever a vacancy occurs in the Council, it shall be filled by holding a special election to fill such vacancy at the next regular or special meeting of the assembly.
Within fifteen days from the installation of officers, the ORGANIZATION shall require that the Treasurer be placed under bond in such amount as the assembly may determine, and the ORGANIZATION shall pay the premium for such bond.

PRESIDENT
Sec.15. the President is the highest-ranking officer and the leader of the ORGANIZATION and as such:
Calls and presides over all the meetings of the Council and of the assembly.
Sees that the laws of the ORGANIZATION are observed and the deliberations of the Council and of the assembly are carried out.
Sees that the laws of the Order are respected and observed
Controls the affairs of the ORGANIZATION and supervises the performance of duties by the other officers and of the Council.
Signs the minutes of the meetings of the assembly and all orders of payment, checks, correspondence and all documents, which invest the responsibility of the ORGANIZATION.
Unless the laws of the ORGANIZATION provide otherwise, the President appoints all committees, of which the President is an ex-officio member.
Refrains from making proposals at the meetings of the assembly; participates in discussions only to clarify the issues presented, and votes only in case of a tie.
After hearing the opinion of the Orator, the President rules upon controversies involving the application of the laws. The member who disagrees with the ruling and the interpretation of the President shall appeal within 10 days to the council
When disorder arises in the meeting of the assembly or of the Council, the President may silence or censure the member or members causing such disorder. If such member or members persist in causing disorder, the President may fine, silence or expel the member or members from the hall or suspend the meeting.
May appoint a Chaplain whose primary duties shall be to conduct,
Whenever practicable, all religious exercises of the ORGANIZATION. The
Chaplain shall also perform such other duties relating to the office, as
Shall be assigned to the office from time to time by the President.
VICE PRESIDENT

Sec.16. the Vice President is the second ranking officer of the
ORGANIZATION As such, the Vice President assists the President and takes the Presidents place when the President is absent or unable to act. In the absence of the President, the Vice President performs the duties and exercises the prerogatives of the President to the same extent and with like power, which the President would have, if present.

IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT

Sec.17. the office of Immediate Past President shall be given to the member who has served one complete term as President of the ORGANIZATION immediately preceding the incumbent. If, because of death, disqualification, resignation or removal, the office of Immediate Past President becomes vacant, the office shall be filled from the preceding former Presidents in the inverted order of their tenure of office. In case there are no preceding former Presidents, the office of the Immediate Past President shall be filled by electing such officer from among the members of the ORGANIZATION who have served a full term as officers. The Immediate Past President assumes the office of President whenever the President and the Vice President are unable to act or are absent from the meeting of the Council or of the assembly, and performs the duties and exercises the prerogatives of the President to the same extent and with like powers as the President, if present.

ORATOR

Sec.18. the Orator gives opinions concerning the application and interpretation of the laws of the Order and sees that the laws of the Order are observed and properly applied. In matters, which relate to the administration of the affairs of the ORGANIZATION, the Orator is subordinate to the President. In matters relating to the exercise of Judicial Power.

Either the Orator, on the Orators own initiative or upon complaint being made to the Orator, shall have power to prefer written charges against a member who has violated the laws of the ORGANIZATION.

RECORDING SECRETARY

sec19. The Recording Secretary is the custodian of the archives and the keeper of the seal of the ORIGINATION. The Recording Secretaries duties are:
To take and record the minutes of the meetings of the Council and of the assembly, which minutes are to be read at the successive meeting.
To make up and keep up to date the membership roll of the ORGANIZATION.
To care for correspondence and write letters, which the Recording Secretary is, directed to write by the President or other higher officer in the ranking units of the Order.
To be the sole officer through whom a member may communicate with the Council.
To write and send notices for meetings.

TREASURER

Sec.20. the Treasurer is the custodian of the funds of the Local Lodge. The Treasurers duties are:
To receive at the end of each meeting all money collected by the Financial Secretary and to issue proper receipt therefore.
To record in and keep up to date the Cash Book of the Local Lodge, in which record the Treasurer shall register monthly income and disbursements of the Local Lodge.
Not later than three days after each meeting, to deposit in previously designated banks the funds received by the Treasurer in accounts opened in the name of the Local Lodge.
To issue and sign checks upon the receipt of proper order of payment and consign them to the Financial Secretary for delivery to the payee thereof.
To withdraw funds from savings accounts opened in the name of the Organization; provided the withdrawal slip bears the signature of the President, of the Financial Secretary, and of at least one Trustee, in addition to the Treasurers; and provided further that the assembly of the Organization may dispense with the signature of the Trustee when deemed advisable.
To carry out such orders, which the Treasurer may receive, in matters pertaining to the office, from the President or from the higher ranking officers of the Order.

TRUSTEES

Sec.21. the Trustees supervise the affairs of the ORGANIZATION, and are members of the Council.
Their duties are:
To examine and audit the books kept by the treasurer
To examine the quarterly audit provided by the ORGANIZATION CPA. Reporting deficiencies to the membership at the next most immediate meeting. Affixing their signatures thereon; provided, however, that such report shall not be valid unless it bears the signature of no less than three Trustees in addition to that of the treasurer.
To perform such additional duties, in matters pertaining to their office, imposed upon them by the laws of the ORGANIZATION or by the deliberations of the assembly of the Local Lodge.

ARBITRATION COMMISSION

Sec.23. the COUNCIL is the judicial tribunal of the ORGANIZATION. The rules and regulations, which prescribe the mode of procedure, the jurisdiction, the powers and the revenue incident to the functioning of the COUNCIL sitting as the Arbitration Commission, are set forth in the Judicial Code.
the ORGANIZATION holding biennial elections,

MEETINGS

sec. 24 The meetings of the ORGANIZATION to be regular or special. The regular meetings are to be held no less than once each month from September to April, and shall be conducted in accordance with the minimum requirements called for in Roberts Rules. The special meetings are held when called either by the President or by written request of no less than one-third of the members in good standing. The business of a special meeting shall be limited to the order of the day. The Recording Secretary, upon order of the President, shall give notice of the meeting, and the order of the day by mail sent to each member of the ORGANIZATION no less than 5 days prior to such special meeting.
In the absence of the President, Vice President and Immediate Past President, the meeting of the assembly is to be postponed until one of the presiding officers is present.
No regular or special meeting of the assembly of the ORGANIZATION shall be declared open unless a quorum is present. The presence of not less than five members in good standing shall constitute a quorum.
Whenever proposals for the imposition of new assessments or for the expenditure of sums of money other than for ordinary purposes are contemplated, the proposal is to be inserted in the notice for the meeting and such notice shall be sent to each member of the ORGANIZATION the last known address. . Unless the proposal for the purposes mentioned is inserted in the notice, it cannot be discussed and acted upon at the meeting.
All of the deliberations of the assembly of the ORGANIZATION, which do not conform to the laws, are to be considered null and void.

RECEIPTS

Sec.25. the ORGANIZATION derives its revenue from the following sources:
Application fee of applicant.
Fund raisers
Annual dues and assessments
Special assessments imposed by the deliberations of the assembly

LOANS

sec. 26. The ORGANIZATION is prohibited from making loans to members and to any person whatsoever out of funds possessed by either of them, which are incidental
This prohibition shall not preclude the investment of funds constituting the reserve of the ORGANIZATION whenever such investments are consistent with the laws of the State. Neither shall this prohibition preclude from investing its surplus funds in property for its own use…

ARTICLE eleven JUDICIAL CODE
PREFACE
The Judicial Code of the ORGANIZATION guarantees each member the privileges and protections of the Constitution and General Laws of the
ORGANIZATION. This Judicial Code supersedes all existing judicial procedures.

JUDICIARY POWERS

ART. 1A. The Judicial Code of the ORGANIZATION is the primary method of enforcing the Constitution, General Laws and resolving disputes arising within the ORGANIZATION. No member may resort to the Civil Courts until they have pursued and exhausted all available remedies under this Judicial Code. Wherever the word “member” is used in the Judicial Code it shall mean “ALL” member.

ART. 2B. The Judiciary powers of the Order are exercised by:
The council when called into special session

SUPREME COURT OF THE ORGANIZATION
ART. 3C. The Supreme Court of the ORGANIZATION shall be composed of the President all Past Presidents, and the Vice President in the event Past Presidents do not exist , then the President will select by lottery four members of the ORGANIZATION that do not have a relationship with the parties.

The affirmative vote of a majority of the members of the Supreme Court present, at a meeting at which a quorum is present, shall be necessary for the authorization, decision or taking of any action voted upon by the Court. The members of the Supreme Court, at the time the court is convened, shall then elect a President from among their members who shall be known as President of the Supreme Court. The President shall be entitled to vote at any meetings and hearings and shall preside at all meetings and hearings. The President shall also act as the Clerk.

ART. 4D. The Supreme Court shall have jurisdiction as follows:
To hear appeals, of the decision of the council.

GENERAL PROCEEDINGS

ART. 5E. all trials of complaints and hearings of appeals shall be open only to members of the ORGANIZATION; the public shall be excluded.
Any member may be represented.
Expenses by a member of the ORGANIZATION, at a trial or hearing shall be paid by the member
Any Member, or member representative, may call any witness, whether a member or non-member of the ORGANIZATION, at such persons expense.

ABSENT PARTIES

ART. 6F. If any party and/or their designated representative, if any, fail to appear at any proceeding after notice of such proceeding in accordance with Article 7 or 8 of this Judicial Code, such proceeding shall be held regardless of whether or not said party or their designated representative, if any, appears and a decision may be rendered.

SERVICE

ART. 7G. Whenever the Recording Secretary is required to serve any document or notice in accordance with this Judicial Code, such service shall be made as follows:
By Registered United States Mail or by United States Certified Mail with a return receipt requested, or by personal service.
If by personal service, any adult individual may personally serve any document or notice, and said person shall sign a statement indicating the name to which service was made, the date and place the service was made, and itemize all documents served. This statement shall become a part of the record of the proceedings.

ART. 8H. If service is by Registered United States Mail or United States Certified Mail, the envelope is returned with an endorsement showing the failure of service, such as refusal, unclaimed, etc., and if no personal, service can be made, and then service shall be by publication as follows:
Before service by publication can be made, the moving party shall file an affidavit, as part of the record of the proceedings, stating that service cannot be made in accordance with Article 8 of this Judicial Code.
The Recording Secretary shall publish a notice, at least once, in the newspaper of the ORGANIZATION, or if the ORGANIZATION does not publish a newspaper, then in a newspaper of general circulation in the general jurisdiction wherein the party to be notified resides
The published notice shall contain the name of the party to be notified, a brief summary of the purpose of the cause of action, and the name and address of the Recording Secretary.
Service shall be completed at the date of the last publication.
Upon confirmation of publication, the Recording Secretary shall file an affidavit, as part of the record of the proceedings, showing the fact of publication together with a copy of the newspaper publication of the notice as part of the record of the proceedings.
The affidavit and copy of the published notice shall constitute proof of
Service.
No proceeding may commence earlier than thirty (30) days following the last date of publication of any notice specifying the proceeding and its commencement date.

THE COMPLAINT

ART. 9 I. The complaint shall be in writing and shall contain the following information:
The name, address and telephone number of the complainant.
The name, address and telephone number of the respondent.
A clear and concise statement, in plain language, explaining the alleged violation(s) of the law(s) of the ORGANIZATION and such additional information necessary to clarify the nature of the offense(s).
The name, address and telephone number of witnesses to the offense(s), if known at the time the complaint is filed.
A simple and concise statement of the relief requested or as specified in the laws of Order.
The name, address and telephone number of any designated representative of the complainant.
The signature of the complainant and the date signed.

ART.10J An original copy of the complaint shall be filed with the Recording Secretary having jurisdiction at the address of record for said Recording Secretary.

ART.11K. No complaint may be filed unless it is filed:
Not later than six (6) months from the date of the offense or not later than six (6) months from the date the offense became known, or should have become known in the exercise of reasonable diligence, whichever is later.
Includes deposit of any required filing fees established in Article 23 of this Judicial Code with the Recording Secretary.

ART.12L. Upon receipt of a complaint the Recording Secretary shall:
Date the complaint received.
Forward one copy of the complaint to the President of council
Serve, one copy of the complaint to the respondent; a statement that the respondent must file an answer within thirty (30) days; and require that the respondent must notify the Recording Secretary of any designated representative within thirty (30) days. If no answer is filed, all averments of fact contained in the complaint will be deemed admitted.

ART. 13M. a copy of any subsequent filings must be served on all parties.

ART.14N. the Recording Secretary shall:
Forward a copy of all filings to the President.
Notify all parties and their designated representatives.

ART. 15 O. The President (Trial Judge) shall establish a pre-trial hearing date to be attended by the complainant and the respondent along with their designated representatives, if any. At the pre-trial hearing, the Trial Judge shall:
Define the issues, which will be presented at the trial.
Record the names, addresses and telephone numbers of all witnesses who will be called to testify at the trial by either party.
Establish the date, time and place for the trial and review the trial
Procedure.

Receive any information the parties may desire to submit.
Issue a pre-trial order through the Recording Secretary, setting forth the above information and any other necessary information in writing to all parties and their designated representatives, if any, within twenty (20) days from the pre-trial hearing date.

ART.16P. All parties shall make an effort to resolve the matter and if possible arrive at a final disposition at the pre-trial hearing date or at any time prior to commencement of the trial.

TRIAL
ART.17.Q The trial shall be held at a location determined by the Trial Judge. The proceedings of the trial shall be recorded and transcribed at the sole cost and expense of the complainant.

ART. 18R. the following trial procedure, power, and authority shall apply:
The Trial Judge shall declare the trial open and verify that any designated representatives are members of the ORGANIZATION Administration of the following oath by the Trial Judge or the Recording Secretary to all persons who will give testimony at the trial:
I swear (affirm) to tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth in this hearing, so help me God.
The complainant shall present its case, evidence and witness (es) which shall be subject to cross-examination by the respondent and/or their designated representative, if any, and/or the Trial Judge .
The respondent shall then present its defense, evidence and witness (es) which shall be subject to cross-examination by the complainant and/or their designated representative, if any, and/or the Trial Judge .
If during the trial any witness refuse to testify, and/or to answer questions asked of them, or if such witness becomes unruly, abusive or uses foul and profane language, the actions of the witness shall be disqualified.
The Trial Judge shall have the authority to require the parties to submit any additional evidence and/or to call additional witnesses.
The president shall have the authority to interpret the laws.
The parties and their designated representatives, if any, may submit any oral or written arguments to the president they deem appropriate to their position.

ART. 19S. The Trial Judge shall render a written decision within thirty (30) days of the conclusion of the trial. In rendering a decision, the Trial Judge shall consider all the evidence submitted. The burden of proof shall rest upon the complainant who shall be required to prove his case by a fair preponderance of the evidence. Whenever the evidence is equally balanced, a decision in favor of the respondent is to be returned.

ART. 20T. the Trial Judge may by decision:
Expel a party from the Order.
Remove a party from office.
Suspend a party from office for a period deemed advisable.
Suspend the rights and privileges of a party for a period deemed advisable.
Assess the trial cost as established in Article 23 of this Judicial Code, including stenographic costs previously paid by the complainant, against either party or both of the parties equally.
Impose a fine.

ART. 21U. The Recording Secretary shall serve, a copy of the decision to all parties including their designated representatives, if any.

ART. 22V. the decisions of the Trial Judge shall be considered as and are the laws of the ORGANIZATION the findings and decisions of the Trial Judge, be carried out immediately by all affected parties

JUDICIAL FEES AND COSTS
ART.23W.Whenever a complaint is filed; a one-hundred dollar ($100) filing fee shall accompany it, together with a $500.00 deposit for trial expenses outlined in article 24x.

ART.24X. the costs of conducting a trial before a Trial Judge include the following:
Stenographer’s fees
Transcript of the record of the trial if it is reduced to writing
Photocopying and postage
Publication costs, if any.
The per-diem as established for the Trial Judge and
Recording Secretary
The cost of travel, lodging, and meals
The cost of obtaining a room for holding a trial

Approved and adopted
October 21, 2014