Chairman's Message

Sometimes the Answer is "No"
By Joe Hayden

Everyone who has been involved with NFRC for any length of time knows that spirited and passionate debates are pretty much the norm within our organization. Some might think that’s a sign of divisiveness and trouble. While I would agree that it’s nice when everyone shares the same viewpoints, I’ve never believed that honest and constructive disagreement is a bad sign. Instead, I see it as a sign of a healthy and vibrant organization in which everyone genuinely cares about accomplishing our mission and achieving our objectives.

That being said, I feel compelled to comment on recent (and continuing) allegations that the NFRC Board of Directors is not listening. I appreciate that it can be frustrating when the outcome of a debate or project is not as might have been desired. However, I flatly reject allegations that the Board is not listening.

As indicated in the last Insider, I’ve seen the world from both sides now. I can say unequivocally that the membership’s input is always uppermost in the Board’s minds and is always thoroughly considered. However, simply put, sometimes the answer is “no.” That doesn’t mean we’re not listening. It just means that the Board has exercised its best good-faith judgment in determining what’s best for NFRC and the general public, and determined that the answer is “no” – or at least contrary to what some members may have wanted. I know we’ve all heard it many times, but it can’t be over-emphasized that NFRC is not a trade association. Instead, NFRC is a 501(c)(3) public service corporation. As such, our first and foremost duty is to serve the best interests of the general public. The Board of Directors, by law, has the ultimate responsibility of ensuring that this duty is met. Sometimes, that means making difficult and unpopular decisions. Sometimes, that means irritating and frustrating some of our constituents. Sometimes, that means the answer is “no.”

Those of you who know me well know that I’ve always had, and will continue to have, an “open door” policy. To that end, I’ve included my contact information at the end of this column and invite any of you to contact me anytime. I offer everyone my solemn vow that I will always listen, and will always do my best to fully understand your positions and concerns. However, I make no guarantee that I will either agree or disagree. I make no guarantee that I will have the answers you’re looking for. Indeed, sometimes my answer might be “no.”

There will certainly continue to be spirited debate on key issues within NFRC, which again, I feel is ultimately a good thing. I want to strongly encourage EVERYONE to stay actively involved and engaged in all NFRC activities. As I’ve heard said on occasion, and with which I totally agree, “none of us is as smart as all of us.” The more we all stay involved and engaged, the stronger our programs and organization will become, and the more the general public will benefit from our endeavors.

Until next time, and as always, thanks for all you do!!!

Joe Hayden – Pella Corporation
e-mail: jahayden@pella.com
office: 641-621-6096
cell: 641-780-0591

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NFRC Insider | Vol. 2, Issue 2 - April 2008