What are they? Who are they?

We've all seen and heard them. They're the ones who are all TALK at the coffee shops. They're consistently spouting off what they'd do, or what should be done; but when it comes to putting their money where their mouths are ... that's all that MOUTH-FLAPPIN' does; IS CREATE A LOT OF HOT AIR

WELL, LADIES & GENTLEMEN: VIABLE ORGANIZATIONS CANNOT RUN ON HOT AIR.

There's usually 4 groups of people surrounding any organization. The first group consists of a dozen or so hard-working, dedicated people who pull the weight, solve the problems, pay the bills, spark the ideas, and get the results.

Secondly, there's another dozen people who appear active, yet aren't willing to contribute anything, because it's too much trouble, or they don't have the time or it'll get done by someone else anyway.

The third group are in the background. They're counted as a number, but virtually contribute nothing. You wonder why they belong. I guess it's to reap any benefits that roll their way, but if none pass by, what-the-hay-; they're not out any sweat anyway.

And the fourth group is the illustrious Coffee Shop Warlords. These are the people who tell you how to run things; are always right, and seem to have ESP about everything, retrospectively, of course. These people never belong to the organization. They don't pay dues, they're only half informed and are always an unwelcome boor. In fact, these Warlords should have an open season declared in their names. This group is actually the smallest in number, but always create havoc with their half-cocked ideas aimed at the uninformed third group. By sheer numbers now, there's a problem.

To eliminate this problem, there is a solution. First you eliminate these "Coffee Shop Warlords". If they don't want to join us - dispel them from future conversations. Next is to better inform group #3. Insist they accompany you to the next general meeting. Becoming informed is no accident Take pride in what you do and what you know. And keep group #2 on their toes also. Maybe all they really need is a little attention, a little coaxing to be more active. This is not the Garden Club. We are a very serious group of hardworking professionals who demand respect and compensation for our skills and experience as log trucking businessmen and women.

So, now, I want each and everyone of you to do your part. I have given instructions to implement a strong membership drive. I am trying to take off some of the burden from the "faithful minority" and let the "silent majority" take responsibility of their own organization. We must "all do our part" if we are going to survive. "Coffee Shop Warlords" will no longer be tolerated! Put up and commit yourselves, or shut up and comply with the wishes of those who speak with direction.

Everyone needs to try and gain a supporting member. Ask your suppliers to place an ad. Ask your buddies why they have not joined. Invite them to a meeting to become better informed.

Get tough now! We've fought for a bill that may still help us down the road. It's not going to do us any good sitting in some desk drawer in Helena. We have the right to direct the rules now.

One of the reasons the merge with MMC A was broken, was because we wanted control of our office and newsletter. We wanted to direct ourselves. So, let's do it. Get off your duff and make yourself heard. I don't want to hear anymore excuses; no more whining. Let's get the fight and vigor back. And, please, no more patience with "Coffee Shop Warlords!"