Sometimes I don't agree with things and sometimes I feel I should play
devil's advocate to raise some questions. I'm not sure which I am today, but I do
have some points to raise.
It appears to me that this list is leaning more toward an organized structure
for the INPCRP and away from being strictly an e-mail list resource. Up
until now, many members of this list volunteered for several projects, but they
were done under the auspices of other groups (ie restoring a cemetery under a
township's authority or a workshop hosted by Walt or Mark or whomever) But as I
read these last few posts I see where this new position of regional
coordinators will decide what cemeteries need care and which ones will be prioritized.
This appears to be a little more involved than showing up for a work day or
sharing your thoughts on a bulletin board. I'm not saying I'm opposed to any
of this, but I want to caution this group to make sure whatever is done
protects everyone involved. If someone starts acting in an official capacity for
this group, or making any sort of decisions, sponsoring events, etc., I would
suggest that there be some formal organization in place to properly govern the
actions of this group. In addition, the people who are doing this work need to
realize they are exposing themselves to a personal liability issue as the
INPCRP has no general liability insurance to protect them. The minute that name
(INPCRP) goes on a flyer, news release, etc. where it is sponsoring a 'cemetery
restoration day', it becomes liable to an extent for anything that goes wrong
that day, whether it be a bystander that shows up to watch or a volunteer
that shows up to help. And let me assure you that the minute something goes
wrong, everyone will get dragged into the action. The townships and cemetery
associations have insurance for this very reason, which would leave some very
wonderful, well meaning people hung out to dry. I can assure you, the insurance
carrier for the township or cemetery board will not 'graciously' offer to
protect you in a $1,000,000 lawsuit when a 1/2 ton tombstone falls over and crushes
someone at one of these events.
I guess my point is this.... once again this group is at a crossroads, and
it is getting here more and more often these days. A decision needs to be made
whether this group will remain an informal internet resource for many of us
to share ideas, successes, defeats, and some thought provoking comments; or is
it going to take that next step to be an organized, legal entity and try to
conduct it's business as such, collecting dues and donations to help defray its
expenses, electing officers, etc.
I have met some wonderful people on this list over the last several years.
Some I know personally, others I feel I do. I bring these issues up to try and
prevent someone from unknowingly getting themselves into a mess down the
road. Today's legal climate requires one to be extremely careful in this regard.
And contrary to what many on this list think, the people here have done a
wonderful job bringing cemetery preservation to the table. It may not be the #1
topic discussed at the township association meetings, but the fact that it is
discussed at all is due to the perserverance of the people who frequent this
list. The fact that there is a waiting list for cemeteries who have contacted
one of our fine craftsmen (or women) who do this work full time is a testament
to what has been accomplished. Having at least some changes in state law
made is not an easy task, but we have been instrumental there as well. We have
made a difference. No matter where we go from here, that cannot be disputed.
I guess that's the next question though....where do we go from here? Wherever
it is, I just want to make sure it's done thoughtfully and inclusively.
Thanks for your time.
Kyle D. Conrad
Brook, IN