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Constitution
NEXT TO KIN RIDERS
CONSTITUTION
ARTICLE I
NAME AND OBJECTIVES
SECTION 1. The name of the Club shall be Next to Kin Riders, Inc.
SECTION 2. The objectives of the Club shall be:
a) a) To be dedicated to promoting a positive image of motorcycling through personal conduct and promoting
safety in the sport.
b) b) To promote sharing the roads with all motorists in a neutral, nonjudgmental, and safe manner with the
final goal of safer and more enjoyable roads for all motorists.
c) c) To promote motorcycling education and safety in the sport.
d) d) To raise money at least once a month for club rides and activities.
e) e) To sponsor a charity event at least once a year.
SECTION 3. The Club shall not involve itself in any political or personal issues that doesn’t directly effect the harmony of the
Next to Kin Riders, nor shall it express opinions on such issues. Members may participate in any political or personal issue
but not as a representative of the Next to Kin Riders.
SECTION 4. The Club shall not be conducted or operated for profit and no part of any profits or remainder or residue from
dues or donations to the Club shall inure to the benefit of any Member or individual.
SECTION 5. The Board of Directors of the Club shall adopt and may from time to time revise such Bylaws as may be
required to carry out these objectives.
BYLAWS
ARTICLE I
MEMBERSHIP
SECTION 1. Classes of Membership. The Club shall have one class of Members as follows: Full Members.
SECTION 2. Eligibility for Membership. Any person is eligible to be a Member of the Club if such person meets the following
specific requirements:
a) a) Full Membership. Any man or woman is eligible to be an Full Member of the Club if he or she:
i) i) Is at least eighteen (18) years of age;
ii) ii) Is an active motorcyclist with a current valid motorcycle license;
iii) iii) Subscribes to the objectives of the Constitution of the Next to Kin Riders;
iv) iv) Completes a Membership application and is approved by Club President; and
v) iv) Purchases at least three (3) Club shirts at $25.00 per shirt.
If a Full Member ceases to ride, he or she may continue as a Full Member but may not hold office.
SECTION 3. Admission to Membership.
a) a) Full Members. Applicants meeting the requirements in ARTICLE I, SECTION 2 of these Bylaws may be
admitted to Full Membership if they:
i) i) Declare their intention to the Membership Chairperson by completing an application for Membership. A
period of no less than 15 days must elapse from the application of Membership to the first eligibility date for being voted in
as a Member.
ii) ii) Receive a majority vote for Membership by the Board of Directors attending the meeting at which his or
her Membership requirements are fulfilled, including the 15-day probationary period;
iii) iii) Agree to and Pay the Treasurer for the purchase of three (3) Club shirts at $25.00 per shirt and/or other
accessories upon being accepted into Membership
SECTION 4. Term of Membership. Membership shall run for the calendar year beginning in January 1st and ending
December 31st, regardless of the month in which a person becomes a Member.
SECTION 5. Dues. At this time, our membership fees are as follows:
$20 single riders
$30 couple riders
$15 non-riders
All dues are to be paid no later than close of business on the date of the monthly meeting. The secretary will take receipt of
dues and track outstanding balances. As the club adjust and expand, membership fees may change. If a member has not
paid membership dues in four (4) consecutive months, your membership will be terminated.
SECTION 6. Number of Members. There shall be no limit on the number of Members the Club may admit.
SECTION 7. Membership Contact List. The Membership Contact List shall be provided by the Membership Chairperson
and shall be available to Members only.
SECTION 8. Colors and Logo. The official colors of the Club are a logo consisting of a white wall motorcycle tire, with a
navy blue flame design, encircled by navy blue lettering containing the Club name. The logo must be worn on all shirts
and/or vests when on a ride.
The shirts and/or vest Can and Should be worn:
a) By Members in good standing as described in ARTICLE 1, SECTION 9 of these Bylaws;
b) At all Club meetings, rides, activities or events as posted in the events area on the Club
website.
c) When participating on behalf of the Club at a designated event; and
d) On a ride or event approved by the Board.
Club T-shirts, sweatshirts and any other article of clothing bearing a copy of the Club logo are to be worn only by Members
in good standing. At no time shall these articles of clothing be worn for any ride, activity or event detrimental to the
reputation of the Club and/or which is contrary to the Constitution or Bylaws of the Club, such as but not limited to the
following:
a) Political Events;
b) Events associated with a club or group that degrades or dishonors the Club's reputation;
c) Any Illegal or Criminal Activity.
SECTION 9. Good Standing. A Member is in good standing if such Member:
a) a) Abides by the Constitution and these Bylaws;
b) b) Attends regular monthly meetings;
c) c) Participates in Club activities and fundraisers on a regular basis;
d) d) Abstains from using illegal drugs or carrying illegal firearms while participating in any Club activities and/or
while wearing Club logo;
e) e) Maintains a respectful attitude towards all Members and guests during Club meetings and while
participating in any Club activities and/or while wearing Club logo; and,
f) f) Wears Club logo only in accordance with ARTICLE I, Section 8 of these Bylaws.
SECTION 10. Transfer of Membership. Neither the Membership in the Club nor any rights in the Membership may be
transferred, for value or otherwise.
SECTION 11. Termination of Membership.
a) a) Causes of termination. The Membership and all rights of Membership shall automatically terminate on
the occurrence of any of the following events:
vi) vi) The voluntary resignation of a Member with notice as prescribed by ARTICLE I, SECTION 11,
Paragraph b of these Bylaws;
vii) ii) The death of a Member;
viii) iii) The continued non-participation in Club activities and/or fundraisers;
ix) ix) The expulsion of a Member pursuant to ARTICLE I, SECTION 11, paragraph c of these Bylaws; and,
x) x) Non-payment of membership dues in four (4) consecutive months
b) b) Resignation. The Membership of any Member shall automatically terminate on such Member’s written
request for such termination, which said request shall be delivered to the President or Secretary of the Club.
c) c) Expulsion of a Full Member. The Membership of any Member may be terminated by the Board if the
member:
i) i) No longer meets the eligibility requirements of ARTICLE I, SECTION 2 of these Bylaws;
ii) ii) Violates any provision of these Bylaws;
iii) iii) Is not a Member in good standing as defined in ARTICLE, SECTION 9 of these Bylaws; or,
iv) iv) Acts in a manner harmful to the welfare, safety, and/or reputation of the Club.
d) d) Expulsion Procedure:
i) i) The Secretary shall personally give the Member or send by registered mail to the Member’s last known
address, a written notice of termination 15 days prior to the effective date of termination;
ii) ii) The notice shall state the reason(s) for termination and advise that the Member may request a hearing
on the matter of termination;
iii) iii) A request for a hearing shall be in writing and shall be hand-delivered or mailed to the Secretary within
10 days after the member receives the notice;
iv) iv) If a hearing is requested, the Member shall be suspended from the date of receipt of the notice to the
date a decision is made by the grievance committee, as provided below.
The grievance committee shall consist of the Board of directors initially chosen by the President and annually chosen by the
members at the Annual Club Meeting. The grievance committee, presided over by the President, shall conduct the hearing.
The President shall do all of the following at the hearing:
i) i) Read the charges against the subject Member;
ii) ii) Require that the charges be verified by the testimony of the person or persons making them;
iii) iii) Hear any other witnesses against the subject Member;
iv) iv) Allow the subject Member to cross-examine each witness following testimony of such witness;
v) v) Allow the subject Member to make a statement on such Member’s own behalf;
vi) vi) Allow the subject Member to call witnesses on such Member’s own behalf; and,
vii) vii) Allow the Board to question the witnesses after they have been questioned by the subject Member.
The grievance committee shall conduct the hearing in good faith and in a fair and reasonable manner. The grievance
committee shall have the exclusive power and authority to decide whether or not to terminate the subject Member. The
decision to expel must be a unanimous decision of the grievance committee.
e) Effect of Termination. All rights of a Member in the Club shall cease on the termination date. The former Member
must cease from wearing any and all apparel representing the Club. The former Member must return all club logos and shall
not re-join (re-commit) to another MC, RC or SC for 6 consecutive months. If the former Member does not return all club
logo the member shall not re-join (re-commit) to another MC, RC or SC for one (1) year.
f) Reinstatement. Any person who is expelled from Membership may not be reinstated and may not re-join the Club or
participate in Club activities until or unless approved by President.
SECTION 12. Fund Raising Participation Requirement. All Club Members are required to consistantly participate in Club
fund raising events during the calendar year (from January to December). The secretary shall be responsible for keeping
track of this information and reporting it to the Board.
ARTICLE II
MEETINGS AND VOTING
SECTION 1. Club Meeting. Meetings of the Club shall be held at such hour and place as may be designated by the
President or meetings will be held at the Chapter location (Kingwood, Texas). Fifty (50)% of Members qualified to vote shall
be present at a meeting to constitute a “voting quorum” when a voting quorum is required by ARTICLE III, SECTIONS 2 and
3 and ARTICLE VII, SECTIONS 1 and 2 of these Bylaws.
SECTION 2. Special Club Meetings. Special Club meetings may be called by the Club President or by a majority vote of the
officers who are present and voting at any regular or special meeting; or shall be called by the Secretary upon receipt of a
petition signed by five Members of the Club who are in good standing. Such meetings shall be at such place, date and hour
as may be designated by persons authorized herein to call such meetings. Written notice of such a meeting shall be mailed
or e-mailed by the Secretary at least 5 days and not more than 15 days prior to the date of the meeting, and said notice
shall state the purpose of the meeting, and no other Club business may be transacted thereat. The quorum for such a
meeting shall be 20% of the Members in good standing. The Club president, or in his absence, the Club Vice President,
shall preside over these meetings.
SECTION 3. Special Board Meetings. Special meetings of the Board may be called by the Club President or shall be called
by the Club Secretary upon receipt of a written request signed by at least three Members of the Board. Such special
meetings shall be at such place, date and hour as may be designated by the person authorized herein to call such a
meeting. Written notice of such meeting shall be mailed or e-mailed by the Secretary at least 5 and not more than 10 days
prior to the date of the meeting. Any such notice shall state the purpose of the meeting and no other business shall be
transacted thereat. The quorum for such a meeting shall be a majority of the Board. The Club President, or in his absence,
the Club Vice President, shall preside over these meetings.
SECTION 4. Voting. Each Full Member shall be entitled to one vote at annual meeting and special club meetings of the
Club at which that Member is present, provided that the Member is in good standing.
Proxy voting will not be permitted at any Club meeting or election.
Absentee voting will be permitted for election of officers only. An absentee ballot must be submitted to the Secretary before
the December meeting at which the elections are held. The Member submitting it must sign the absentee ballot. If a
Member has submitted an absentee ballot, that Member may not vote again should she be present at the meeting at which
elections are held.
ARTICLE III
CLUB OFFICERS
SECTION 1. Officers. The Club’s officers shall consist of the President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, Membership
Chairperson, Ride Captain, Public Relations Officer and Webmaster. These officers shall make up the Club’s Board of
Directors (hereinafter referred to as the “Board”) and shall serve in their respective capacities both with regard to the Club
and its meetings and the Board and its meetings. The Board shall approve the content of any public relations
communications.
a) a) The President shall preside at all meetings of the Club and of the Board, and shall have the duties and powers
normally associated with the office of the President in addition to those particularly specified in these Bylaws.
b) b) The Vice President shall have the duties and exercise the powers of the President in case of the President’s
absence, death or incapacity. The Vice President shall work closely with and assist the Club President with his duties.
c) c) The Secretary shall keep a written record of all meetings of the Club and of the Board and of all matters for
which the Board shall order a written record. He or she shall have charge of the correspondence and notify Members of
meetings.
d) d) The Treasurer shall collect and receive all moneys due or belonging to the Club. He or she shall deposit the
same in a bank designated by the Board, in the name of the Club. His or her books shall at all times be open to inspection
of the Board and he or she shall provide a verbal or written report to them at every meeting on the condition of the Club’s
finances and every item of receipt or payment not before reported; and at the annual meeting he or she shall render a
written account of all monies received and expended during the previous fiscal year.
e) e) The Membership Chairperson shall keep an up-to-date list of the Club Members, including but not limited to,
Members’ names, mailing addresses, contact phone numbers (i.e. home or cell), e-mail addresses, type of motorcycle(s)
owned, date of Membership, each Member’s status, issue NTK Membership number, if Club Membership is terminated, the
date and reason for such termination, and any other information deemed necessary. This list shall be subject to all rights of
inspection required by law. This list shall be available to Members only. The Membership Chairperson shall also maintain
the Club e-mail list for Members of the Club and a separate e-mail list for guests. The Membership Chairperson shall attend
general meetings and meetings of the Board. He she shall also record attendance at meetings, record names, addresses
and phone numbers of guests and carry out such other duties such as the Membership Contact List as specified in ARTICLE
I, SECTION 7 of these Bylaws.
f) f) The Ride Captain shall meet the following requirements:
i) i) Have at least one years riding experience;
ii) ii) Have been a Club Member for at least one year; and
iii) iii) Have valid driver’s license with motorcycle endorsement.
The Ride Captain is in complete charge of Club rides. He or she explains hand signals and Club riding “rules” to participants
prior to each ride. He or she plans routes when applicable and selects a tailgunner. His or her duties include providing
information on future rides, fees, and where and when to meet. If he or she is unable to attend a scheduled ride, he or she
appoints a temporary Ride Captain to assume his or her duties. He or she attends general meetings and meetings of the
Board. The Ride Captain provides ride information to the Webmaster and the names of Members and guests who
participate in rides to the Membership Chairperson.
g) g) The Public Relations Officer is about managing reputation. P.R.O. uses all fors of media and communication
to build, maintain and manage the reputation of the organization, ranging from public bodies or services of businesses. The
PRO monitors publicity and conducts research to find out the concerns and expectations of the organization.
h) h) The Webmaster shall be responsible for maintaining and publishing the Club's website and producing and
editing the on-line newsletter. The Webmaster shall also maintain web links, contact addresses, electronic guest book and
any additional website maintenance as needed. The Webmaster shall maintain the Club's e-mail accounts and the officer
and/or special e-mail accounts associated with the website. This includes forwarding the contents of these mailboxes to the
appropriate personal e-mail accounts.
The Webmaster will pay the Club web space rental and domain name registration fees and be reimbursed by the Treasurer
upon submitting the receipts. As this position requires technical expertise, the Webmaster may solicit assistance from the
Membership as needed.
Section 2. Board. The Board of Directors shall be comprised of the Club Officers, all of whom shall be Members in good
standing. The size and makeup of the Board may be modified from time to time by a voting quorum. General management
of the Club’s affairs shall be entrusted to the Board.
a) No Members shall hold more than one office concurrently.
b) Officers shall serve for a period of one calendar year and may serve more than one term consecutively.
Section 3. Vacancies. Any vacancies occurring on the Board during the year shall be filled by a majority vote of the voting
quorum of Members of the Club at its first regular meeting following the creation of such vacancy. The term of this elected
office shall last until the next annual election.
However, the Vice President shall fill a vacancy in the office of President automatically. The resulting vacancy in the office of
the Vice President shall be filled by election.
ARTICLE IV
THE CLUB YEAR, ANNUAL MEETING, ELECTIONS
SECTION 1. Club Year. The Club’s fiscal year shall begin on the 1st day of January and end on the 31st day of December.
The Club’s official year shall begin immediately at the conclusion of the election at the annual meeting and shall continue
through the election at the next annual meeting.
SECTION 2. Annual Meeting. The annual meeting shall be held in the month of December at which Officers for the ensuing
year shall be elected by secret, written ballot when there is more than one nomination for a position from those nominated in
accordance with ARTICLE IV, SECTION 3 of these Bylaws. The newly elected and/or re-elected officers shall take office
immediately upon the conclusion of the election and each retiring officer shall turn over to his or her successor all properties
and records relating to that office within 30 days after the election.
SECTION 3. Nominations. Only Members in good standing may be nominated and hold office and no person may be a
candidate in a Club election who has not been nominated. A nominee for President shall have held a position on the Board
for at least one year within the previous two years prior to the nomination.
a) a) Nominations shall be made at the October meeting by any Member in attendance provided that the person so
named does not decline when her name is proposed and provided further that if the proposed candidate is not in
attendance at this meeting, his or her proposer shall present to the Secretary a written statement from the proposed
candidate signifying her willingness to be a candidate. No person may be a candidate for more than one position.
b) b) In the event that the candidate withdraws her name, a new nomination may be made in November for that
position only.
c) c) If the President of the Club is also the Founder of the Club, the President may choose to be sole Founder and
nominate his or her Presidential role to a Member. Therefore, creating a vacancy in which members may nominate a
President. If the Founder of the Club chooses to become President again, he must be nominated at the October meeting.
d) d) The Chairperson choose to nominate his or her Chairperson role to a Member. Therefore, creating a vacancy in
which members may nominate a Chairperson. If the Chairperson of the Club chooses to become Chairperson again, he or
she must be nominated at the October meeting.
SECTION 4. Elections. The nominated candidate receiving the greatest number of votes for each office shall be declared
elected.
ARTICLE V
E-Mail LIST, WEBSITE
SECTON 1. Club E-Mail Distribution List. All Members’ e-mail addresses are on the Club e-mail distribution list. The Club e-
mail list shall be used to send Club information, such as minutes of Club meetings, notices of meetings, rides and messages
concerning motorcycling. The e-mail list shall not be used to send jokes, chain letters, and political or religious messages to
Club Members.
SECTON 2. Club Website. The website is maintained by the Webmaster. The Webmaster shall send any request to place a
link on the Club’s website for approval by a majority of the Board. No links shall be made to a commercial site. Links must
conform to the objective of the Club’s Constitution.
ARTICLE VI
COMMITTEES
SECTION 1. The Board may each year appoint standing committees comprised of Club Members to advance the work of the
Club in such matters as fund raising, motorcycle events, Membership and other fields. Special committees may also be
appointed by the Board to aid it on particular projects. All committees shall always be subject to the final authority of the
Board.
SECTION 2. Any committee member appointed may be terminated by a majority vote of the Board upon written or e-mail
notice to the appointee; and the Board may appoint successors to those persons whose services have been terminated.
ARTICLE VII
AMENDMENTS
SECTION 1. Amendments to the Constitution and Bylaws may be proposed by the Board or by written petition addressed to
the Secretary, signed by a voting quorum. Amendments proposed by such petition shall be promptly considered by the
Board and must be submitted to the Membership with recommendations of the Board for a vote within two months of the date
when the Secretary received the petition.
SECTION 2. The Constitution and Bylaws may be amended by a voting quorum at any regular or special meeting called for
the purpose, provided the proposed amendments have been pre-approved by the Board, included in the notice of the
meeting, and mailed or e-mailed to each Member at least two (2) weeks prior to the date of the meeting.
ARTICLE VIII
DISSOLUTION
SECTION 1. Dissolution. The Club may be dissolved at any time by the written consent of not less than two-thirds (⅔) of all
voting Members. The Membership of the Club shall be notified of the proposed dissolution by mail or e-mail. In the event of
the dissolution of the Club other than for purposes of reorganization, whether voluntary or involuntary or by operation of law,
none of the property of the Club nor any proceeds thereof nor any assets of the Club shall be distributed to any Members of
the Club but after payment of the debts of the Club, its property and assets shall be given to a charitable organization
selected by a two-thirds (⅔) majority of all voting Members present.
ARTICLE IX
ORDER OF BUSINESS
SECTION 1. At meetings of the Club, the order of business, so far as the character and nature of the meeting may permit,
shall be as follows:
Call to Order
Roll Call
Welcome of Guests to the Meeting by the Membership Chairperson
Election of New Members
Report of the President
Report of the Vice President
Report of the Treasurer
Report of the Secretary
Report of the Ride Captain
Report of Webmaster
Report of the Committees
Election of Officers and Board (at the Annual Meeting)
Unfinished Business
New Business
Adjournment
a) a) New business items shall be presented to a Club Officer no later than one week in advance of the meeting for
inclusion in the agenda.
b) b) The minutes of the last meeting shall be e-mailed within two weeks after a meeting to the Members in lieu of
being read at the meeting.
SECTION 2. At the meetings of the Board, the order of business, unless otherwise directed by a majority vote of those
present, shall be as follows:
Reports of Officers
Reports of Committees
Unfinished Business
New Business
Adjournment
ARTICLE X
PARLIAMENTARY AUTHORITY
SECTION 1. The rules contained in the current edition of Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised shall govern the Club in all
cases to which they are applicable and in which they are not inconsistent with these Bylaws and any special rules of order
the Club may adopt.
CERTIFICATE OF SECRETARY
OF
NEXT TO KIN RIDERS
I hereby certify that I am the duly elected and acting Secretary of the Next to Kin Riders and that the forgoing Constitution
and Bylaws consisting of 16 pages (including this certificate), constitute the Constitution and Bylaws of the Club as duly
adopted by a voting quorum at a Regular Meeting
NEXT TO KIN RIDERS
CONSTITUTION
ARTICLE I
NAME AND OBJECTIVES
SECTION 1. The name of the Club shall be Next to Kin Riders, Inc.
SECTION 2. The objectives of the Club shall be:
a) a) To be dedicated to promoting a positive image of motorcycling through personal conduct and promoting
safety in the sport.
b) b) To promote sharing the roads with all motorists in a neutral, nonjudgmental, and safe manner with the
final goal of safer and more enjoyable roads for all motorists.
c) c) To promote motorcycling education and safety in the sport.
d) d) To raise money at least once a month for club rides and activities.
e) e) To sponsor a charity event at least once a year.
SECTION 3. The Club shall not involve itself in any political or personal issues that doesn’t directly effect the harmony of the
Next to Kin Riders, nor shall it express opinions on such issues. Members may participate in any political or personal issue
but not as a representative of the Next to Kin Riders.
SECTION 4. The Club shall not be conducted or operated for profit and no part of any profits or remainder or residue from
dues or donations to the Club shall inure to the benefit of any Member or individual.
SECTION 5. The Board of Directors of the Club shall adopt and may from time to time revise such Bylaws as may be
required to carry out these objectives.
BYLAWS
ARTICLE I
MEMBERSHIP
SECTION 1. Classes of Membership. The Club shall have one class of Members as follows: Full Members.
SECTION 2. Eligibility for Membership. Any person is eligible to be a Member of the Club if such person meets the following
specific requirements:
a) a) Full Membership. Any man or woman is eligible to be an Full Member of the Club if he or she:
i) i) Is at least eighteen (18) years of age;
ii) ii) Is an active motorcyclist with a current valid motorcycle license;
iii) iii) Subscribes to the objectives of the Constitution of the Next to Kin Riders;
iv) iv) Completes a Membership application and is approved by Club President; and
v) iv) Purchases at least three (3) Club shirts at $25.00 per shirt.
If a Full Member ceases to ride, he or she may continue as a Full Member but may not hold office.
SECTION 3. Admission to Membership.
a) a) Full Members. Applicants meeting the requirements in ARTICLE I, SECTION 2 of these Bylaws may be
admitted to Full Membership if they:
i) i) Declare their intention to the Membership Chairperson by completing an application for Membership. A
period of no less than 15 days must elapse from the application of Membership to the first eligibility date for being voted in
as a Member.
ii) ii) Receive a majority vote for Membership by the Board of Directors attending the meeting at which his or
her Membership requirements are fulfilled, including the 15-day probationary period;
iii) iii) Agree to and Pay the Treasurer for the purchase of three (3) Club shirts at $25.00 per shirt and/or other
accessories upon being accepted into Membership
SECTION 4. Term of Membership. Membership shall run for the calendar year beginning in January 1st and ending
December 31st, regardless of the month in which a person becomes a Member.
SECTION 5. Dues. At this time, our membership fees are as follows:
$20 single riders
$30 couple riders
$15 non-riders
All dues are to be paid no later than close of business on the date of the monthly meeting. The secretary will take receipt of
dues and track outstanding balances. As the club adjust and expand, membership fees may change. If a member has not
paid membership dues in four (4) consecutive months, your membership will be terminated.
SECTION 6. Number of Members. There shall be no limit on the number of Members the Club may admit.
SECTION 7. Membership Contact List. The Membership Contact List shall be provided by the Membership Chairperson
and shall be available to Members only.
SECTION 8. Colors and Logo. The official colors of the Club are a logo consisting of a white wall motorcycle tire, with a
navy blue flame design, encircled by navy blue lettering containing the Club name. The logo must be worn on all shirts
and/or vests when on a ride.
The shirts and/or vest Can and Should be worn:
a) By Members in good standing as described in ARTICLE 1, SECTION 9 of these Bylaws;
b) At all Club meetings, rides, activities or events as posted in the events area on the Club
website.
c) When participating on behalf of the Club at a designated event; and
d) On a ride or event approved by the Board.
Club T-shirts, sweatshirts and any other article of clothing bearing a copy of the Club logo are to be worn only by Members
in good standing. At no time shall these articles of clothing be worn for any ride, activity or event detrimental to the
reputation of the Club and/or which is contrary to the Constitution or Bylaws of the Club, such as but not limited to the
following:
a) Political Events;
b) Events associated with a club or group that degrades or dishonors the Club's reputation;
c) Any Illegal or Criminal Activity.
SECTION 9. Good Standing. A Member is in good standing if such Member:
a) a) Abides by the Constitution and these Bylaws;
b) b) Attends regular monthly meetings;
c) c) Participates in Club activities and fundraisers on a regular basis;
d) d) Abstains from using illegal drugs or carrying illegal firearms while participating in any Club activities and/or
while wearing Club logo;
e) e) Maintains a respectful attitude towards all Members and guests during Club meetings and while
participating in any Club activities and/or while wearing Club logo; and,
f) f) Wears Club logo only in accordance with ARTICLE I, Section 8 of these Bylaws.
SECTION 10. Transfer of Membership. Neither the Membership in the Club nor any rights in the Membership may be
transferred, for value or otherwise.
SECTION 11. Termination of Membership.
a) a) Causes of termination. The Membership and all rights of Membership shall automatically terminate on
the occurrence of any of the following events:
vi) vi) The voluntary resignation of a Member with notice as prescribed by ARTICLE I, SECTION 11,
Paragraph b of these Bylaws;
vii) ii) The death of a Member;
viii) iii) The continued non-participation in Club activities and/or fundraisers;
ix) ix) The expulsion of a Member pursuant to ARTICLE I, SECTION 11, paragraph c of these Bylaws; and,
x) x) Non-payment of membership dues in four (4) consecutive months
b) b) Resignation. The Membership of any Member shall automatically terminate on such Member’s written
request for such termination, which said request shall be delivered to the President or Secretary of the Club.
c) c) Expulsion of a Full Member. The Membership of any Member may be terminated by the Board if the
member:
i) i) No longer meets the eligibility requirements of ARTICLE I, SECTION 2 of these Bylaws;
ii) ii) Violates any provision of these Bylaws;
iii) iii) Is not a Member in good standing as defined in ARTICLE, SECTION 9 of these Bylaws; or,
iv) iv) Acts in a manner harmful to the welfare, safety, and/or reputation of the Club.
d) d) Expulsion Procedure:
i) i) The Secretary shall personally give the Member or send by registered mail to the Member’s last known
address, a written notice of termination 15 days prior to the effective date of termination;
ii) ii) The notice shall state the reason(s) for termination and advise that the Member may request a hearing
on the matter of termination;
iii) iii) A request for a hearing shall be in writing and shall be hand-delivered or mailed to the Secretary within
10 days after the member receives the notice;
iv) iv) If a hearing is requested, the Member shall be suspended from the date of receipt of the notice to the
date a decision is made by the grievance committee, as provided below.
The grievance committee shall consist of the Board of directors initially chosen by the President and annually chosen by the
members at the Annual Club Meeting. The grievance committee, presided over by the President, shall conduct the hearing.
The President shall do all of the following at the hearing:
i) i) Read the charges against the subject Member;
ii) ii) Require that the charges be verified by the testimony of the person or persons making them;
iii) iii) Hear any other witnesses against the subject Member;
iv) iv) Allow the subject Member to cross-examine each witness following testimony of such witness;
v) v) Allow the subject Member to make a statement on such Member’s own behalf;
vi) vi) Allow the subject Member to call witnesses on such Member’s own behalf; and,
vii) vii) Allow the Board to question the witnesses after they have been questioned by the subject Member.
The grievance committee shall conduct the hearing in good faith and in a fair and reasonable manner. The grievance
committee shall have the exclusive power and authority to decide whether or not to terminate the subject Member. The
decision to expel must be a unanimous decision of the grievance committee.
e) Effect of Termination. All rights of a Member in the Club shall cease on the termination date. The former Member
must cease from wearing any and all apparel representing the Club. The former Member must return all club logos and shall
not re-join (re-commit) to another MC, RC or SC for 6 consecutive months. If the former Member does not return all club
logo the member shall not re-join (re-commit) to another MC, RC or SC for one (1) year.
f) Reinstatement. Any person who is expelled from Membership may not be reinstated and may not re-join the Club or
participate in Club activities until or unless approved by President.
SECTION 12. Fund Raising Participation Requirement. All Club Members are required to consistantly participate in Club
fund raising events during the calendar year (from January to December). The secretary shall be responsible for keeping
track of this information and reporting it to the Board.
ARTICLE II
MEETINGS AND VOTING
SECTION 1. Club Meeting. Meetings of the Club shall be held at such hour and place as may be designated by the
President or meetings will be held at the Chapter location (Kingwood, Texas). Fifty (50)% of Members qualified to vote shall
be present at a meeting to constitute a “voting quorum” when a voting quorum is required by ARTICLE III, SECTIONS 2 and
3 and ARTICLE VII, SECTIONS 1 and 2 of these Bylaws.
SECTION 2. Special Club Meetings. Special Club meetings may be called by the Club President or by a majority vote of the
officers who are present and voting at any regular or special meeting; or shall be called by the Secretary upon receipt of a
petition signed by five Members of the Club who are in good standing. Such meetings shall be at such place, date and hour
as may be designated by persons authorized herein to call such meetings. Written notice of such a meeting shall be mailed
or e-mailed by the Secretary at least 5 days and not more than 15 days prior to the date of the meeting, and said notice
shall state the purpose of the meeting, and no other Club business may be transacted thereat. The quorum for such a
meeting shall be 20% of the Members in good standing. The Club president, or in his absence, the Club Vice President,
shall preside over these meetings.
SECTION 3. Special Board Meetings. Special meetings of the Board may be called by the Club President or shall be called
by the Club Secretary upon receipt of a written request signed by at least three Members of the Board. Such special
meetings shall be at such place, date and hour as may be designated by the person authorized herein to call such a
meeting. Written notice of such meeting shall be mailed or e-mailed by the Secretary at least 5 and not more than 10 days
prior to the date of the meeting. Any such notice shall state the purpose of the meeting and no other business shall be
transacted thereat. The quorum for such a meeting shall be a majority of the Board. The Club President, or in his absence,
the Club Vice President, shall preside over these meetings.
SECTION 4. Voting. Each Full Member shall be entitled to one vote at annual meeting and special club meetings of the
Club at which that Member is present, provided that the Member is in good standing.
Proxy voting will not be permitted at any Club meeting or election.
Absentee voting will be permitted for election of officers only. An absentee ballot must be submitted to the Secretary before
the December meeting at which the elections are held. The Member submitting it must sign the absentee ballot. If a
Member has submitted an absentee ballot, that Member may not vote again should she be present at the meeting at which
elections are held.
ARTICLE III
CLUB OFFICERS
SECTION 1. Officers. The Club’s officers shall consist of the President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, Membership
Chairperson, Ride Captain, Public Relations Officer and Webmaster. These officers shall make up the Club’s Board of
Directors (hereinafter referred to as the “Board”) and shall serve in their respective capacities both with regard to the Club
and its meetings and the Board and its meetings. The Board shall approve the content of any public relations
communications.
a) a) The President shall preside at all meetings of the Club and of the Board, and shall have the duties and powers
normally associated with the office of the President in addition to those particularly specified in these Bylaws.
b) b) The Vice President shall have the duties and exercise the powers of the President in case of the President’s
absence, death or incapacity. The Vice President shall work closely with and assist the Club President with his duties.
c) c) The Secretary shall keep a written record of all meetings of the Club and of the Board and of all matters for
which the Board shall order a written record. He or she shall have charge of the correspondence and notify Members of
meetings.
d) d) The Treasurer shall collect and receive all moneys due or belonging to the Club. He or she shall deposit the
same in a bank designated by the Board, in the name of the Club. His or her books shall at all times be open to inspection
of the Board and he or she shall provide a verbal or written report to them at every meeting on the condition of the Club’s
finances and every item of receipt or payment not before reported; and at the annual meeting he or she shall render a
written account of all monies received and expended during the previous fiscal year.
e) e) The Membership Chairperson shall keep an up-to-date list of the Club Members, including but not limited to,
Members’ names, mailing addresses, contact phone numbers (i.e. home or cell), e-mail addresses, type of motorcycle(s)
owned, date of Membership, each Member’s status, issue NTK Membership number, if Club Membership is terminated, the
date and reason for such termination, and any other information deemed necessary. This list shall be subject to all rights of
inspection required by law. This list shall be available to Members only. The Membership Chairperson shall also maintain
the Club e-mail list for Members of the Club and a separate e-mail list for guests. The Membership Chairperson shall attend
general meetings and meetings of the Board. He she shall also record attendance at meetings, record names, addresses
and phone numbers of guests and carry out such other duties such as the Membership Contact List as specified in ARTICLE
I, SECTION 7 of these Bylaws.
f) f) The Ride Captain shall meet the following requirements:
i) i) Have at least one years riding experience;
ii) ii) Have been a Club Member for at least one year; and
iii) iii) Have valid driver’s license with motorcycle endorsement.
The Ride Captain is in complete charge of Club rides. He or she explains hand signals and Club riding “rules” to participants
prior to each ride. He or she plans routes when applicable and selects a tailgunner. His or her duties include providing
information on future rides, fees, and where and when to meet. If he or she is unable to attend a scheduled ride, he or she
appoints a temporary Ride Captain to assume his or her duties. He or she attends general meetings and meetings of the
Board. The Ride Captain provides ride information to the Webmaster and the names of Members and guests who
participate in rides to the Membership Chairperson.
g) g) The Public Relations Officer is about managing reputation. P.R.O. uses all fors of media and communication
to build, maintain and manage the reputation of the organization, ranging from public bodies or services of businesses. The
PRO monitors publicity and conducts research to find out the concerns and expectations of the organization.
h) h) The Webmaster shall be responsible for maintaining and publishing the Club's website and producing and
editing the on-line newsletter. The Webmaster shall also maintain web links, contact addresses, electronic guest book and
any additional website maintenance as needed. The Webmaster shall maintain the Club's e-mail accounts and the officer
and/or special e-mail accounts associated with the website. This includes forwarding the contents of these mailboxes to the
appropriate personal e-mail accounts.
The Webmaster will pay the Club web space rental and domain name registration fees and be reimbursed by the Treasurer
upon submitting the receipts. As this position requires technical expertise, the Webmaster may solicit assistance from the
Membership as needed.
Section 2. Board. The Board of Directors shall be comprised of the Club Officers, all of whom shall be Members in good
standing. The size and makeup of the Board may be modified from time to time by a voting quorum. General management
of the Club’s affairs shall be entrusted to the Board.
a) No Members shall hold more than one office concurrently.
b) Officers shall serve for a period of one calendar year and may serve more than one term consecutively.
Section 3. Vacancies. Any vacancies occurring on the Board during the year shall be filled by a majority vote of the voting
quorum of Members of the Club at its first regular meeting following the creation of such vacancy. The term of this elected
office shall last until the next annual election.
However, the Vice President shall fill a vacancy in the office of President automatically. The resulting vacancy in the office of
the Vice President shall be filled by election.
ARTICLE IV
THE CLUB YEAR, ANNUAL MEETING, ELECTIONS
SECTION 1. Club Year. The Club’s fiscal year shall begin on the 1st day of January and end on the 31st day of December.
The Club’s official year shall begin immediately at the conclusion of the election at the annual meeting and shall continue
through the election at the next annual meeting.
SECTION 2. Annual Meeting. The annual meeting shall be held in the month of December at which Officers for the ensuing
year shall be elected by secret, written ballot when there is more than one nomination for a position from those nominated in
accordance with ARTICLE IV, SECTION 3 of these Bylaws. The newly elected and/or re-elected officers shall take office
immediately upon the conclusion of the election and each retiring officer shall turn over to his or her successor all properties
and records relating to that office within 30 days after the election.
SECTION 3. Nominations. Only Members in good standing may be nominated and hold office and no person may be a
candidate in a Club election who has not been nominated. A nominee for President shall have held a position on the Board
for at least one year within the previous two years prior to the nomination.
a) a) Nominations shall be made at the October meeting by any Member in attendance provided that the person so
named does not decline when her name is proposed and provided further that if the proposed candidate is not in
attendance at this meeting, his or her proposer shall present to the Secretary a written statement from the proposed
candidate signifying her willingness to be a candidate. No person may be a candidate for more than one position.
b) b) In the event that the candidate withdraws her name, a new nomination may be made in November for that
position only.
c) c) If the President of the Club is also the Founder of the Club, the President may choose to be sole Founder and
nominate his or her Presidential role to a Member. Therefore, creating a vacancy in which members may nominate a
President. If the Founder of the Club chooses to become President again, he must be nominated at the October meeting.
d) d) The Chairperson choose to nominate his or her Chairperson role to a Member. Therefore, creating a vacancy in
which members may nominate a Chairperson. If the Chairperson of the Club chooses to become Chairperson again, he or
she must be nominated at the October meeting.
SECTION 4. Elections. The nominated candidate receiving the greatest number of votes for each office shall be declared
elected.
ARTICLE V
E-Mail LIST, WEBSITE
SECTON 1. Club E-Mail Distribution List. All Members’ e-mail addresses are on the Club e-mail distribution list. The Club e-
mail list shall be used to send Club information, such as minutes of Club meetings, notices of meetings, rides and messages
concerning motorcycling. The e-mail list shall not be used to send jokes, chain letters, and political or religious messages to
Club Members.
SECTON 2. Club Website. The website is maintained by the Webmaster. The Webmaster shall send any request to place a
link on the Club’s website for approval by a majority of the Board. No links shall be made to a commercial site. Links must
conform to the objective of the Club’s Constitution.
ARTICLE VI
COMMITTEES
SECTION 1. The Board may each year appoint standing committees comprised of Club Members to advance the work of the
Club in such matters as fund raising, motorcycle events, Membership and other fields. Special committees may also be
appointed by the Board to aid it on particular projects. All committees shall always be subject to the final authority of the
Board.
SECTION 2. Any committee member appointed may be terminated by a majority vote of the Board upon written or e-mail
notice to the appointee; and the Board may appoint successors to those persons whose services have been terminated.
ARTICLE VII
AMENDMENTS
SECTION 1. Amendments to the Constitution and Bylaws may be proposed by the Board or by written petition addressed to
the Secretary, signed by a voting quorum. Amendments proposed by such petition shall be promptly considered by the
Board and must be submitted to the Membership with recommendations of the Board for a vote within two months of the date
when the Secretary received the petition.
SECTION 2. The Constitution and Bylaws may be amended by a voting quorum at any regular or special meeting called for
the purpose, provided the proposed amendments have been pre-approved by the Board, included in the notice of the
meeting, and mailed or e-mailed to each Member at least two (2) weeks prior to the date of the meeting.
ARTICLE VIII
DISSOLUTION
SECTION 1. Dissolution. The Club may be dissolved at any time by the written consent of not less than two-thirds (⅔) of all
voting Members. The Membership of the Club shall be notified of the proposed dissolution by mail or e-mail. In the event of
the dissolution of the Club other than for purposes of reorganization, whether voluntary or involuntary or by operation of law,
none of the property of the Club nor any proceeds thereof nor any assets of the Club shall be distributed to any Members of
the Club but after payment of the debts of the Club, its property and assets shall be given to a charitable organization
selected by a two-thirds (⅔) majority of all voting Members present.
ARTICLE IX
ORDER OF BUSINESS
SECTION 1. At meetings of the Club, the order of business, so far as the character and nature of the meeting may permit,
shall be as follows:
Call to Order
Roll Call
Welcome of Guests to the Meeting by the Membership Chairperson
Election of New Members
Report of the President
Report of the Vice President
Report of the Treasurer
Report of the Secretary
Report of the Ride Captain
Report of Webmaster
Report of the Committees
Election of Officers and Board (at the Annual Meeting)
Unfinished Business
New Business
Adjournment
a) a) New business items shall be presented to a Club Officer no later than one week in advance of the meeting for
inclusion in the agenda.
b) b) The minutes of the last meeting shall be e-mailed within two weeks after a meeting to the Members in lieu of
being read at the meeting.
SECTION 2. At the meetings of the Board, the order of business, unless otherwise directed by a majority vote of those
present, shall be as follows:
Reports of Officers
Reports of Committees
Unfinished Business
New Business
Adjournment
ARTICLE X
PARLIAMENTARY AUTHORITY
SECTION 1. The rules contained in the current edition of Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised shall govern the Club in all
cases to which they are applicable and in which they are not inconsistent with these Bylaws and any special rules of order
the Club may adopt.
CERTIFICATE OF SECRETARY
OF
NEXT TO KIN RIDERS
I hereby certify that I am the duly elected and acting Secretary of the Next to Kin Riders and that the forgoing Constitution
and Bylaws consisting of 16 pages (including this certificate), constitute the Constitution and Bylaws of the Club as duly
adopted by a voting quorum at a Regular Meeting