By-Laws

Petitioning Members:

1. Must meet the vehicle requirements in order to receive an application. (See
Vehicle Requirements Section)

2. Must complete and submit an application for membership.

3. Must attend as many club functions/events as possible within a 90 day period after a membership application has been submitted. Club functions include the following: Club meetings, S.C.M.T.C. meetings, shows, truck runs, club cruises, barbecues, etc. Participation is very important in the representation of this club and it is expected from members to attend the majority of club events.

4. Voting of petitioning members will take place at club meetings only. A petitioning member may be voted on anytime during but not to exceed the 90 days. Majority of officers and members must be present for a valid vote to occur. There will be no phone, text, or e-mail voting. If there is a lack of membership present to vote then the voting will be postponed to the following club meeting.

5. Exceptions may be made for former members in regards to probation period and Virgin/Initiation Runs. All other rules will apply. Qualifying time to become an officer begins on the date the member rejoins the club.

Membership:

1. Upon acceptance as a member of this club, new members will receive a copy of club By-Laws which they will sign a receipt for acknowledging they’ve read and understand the rules.

2. New members will have 90 days to obtain a painted club logo on the rear window or rear section of their club vehicle. If a member does not have a club logo within the 90 days, they will receive a swat and continue to receive swats at the end of every month that they do not have a club logo. (See Club Logo Section)

3. Upon acceptance as a member of this club, new members will receive a swat with the club paddle and sign it with the date. (See Swat Rules Section)

4. New members will begin paying club dues in the month following the month they were voted in. (See Club Dues Section)

Leave of Absence: A member may request to take a leave of absence when know they will be away from the club for an extended period of time.

1. A member requesting a leave of absence must notify the President or Vice President in order to validate the request and classify them as an inactive
member.

2. The Treasurer will be notified to put a hold on dues for that member so that they will not accrue any debt to the club while on a leave of absence. If a member is behind in paying dues prior to the beginning date of their leave of absence, they will have a choice to pay the full amount of their debt or receive a swat where the bid amount must be equal to or greater than the amount owed before they leave.

3. While on a leave of absence, a member will not have voting power in the club.

4. Upon returning from a leave of absence, the member must notify the President or Vice President that they wish to be reinstated as an active member.

5. Membership time will not be interrupted due to a leave of absence.

6. If a member does not complete the previously mentioned steps, the situation then falls under the abandonment section of these by-laws.

Club Dues:

Club dues are used for obtaining supplies and services for club purposes.

1. Club dues are $5.00 per month. Dues can be paid to the treasurer at anytime during the month.

2. A member may pay dues early.

3. Dues are exempt for all members on their birthday month.

4. Dues will be exempt for members on a leave of absence.

5. If a member falls behind in paying dues 3 months or more, they become eligible for a swat. (See Swat Rules Section)

Vehicle Requirements:

All vehicles should have a least 3 modifications from stock. (Qualifying modifications to be determined by the club) See below for examples.

1. Modified Suspension – Lowered or Lifted (Qualifying height to be determined by the club), Air Bag Suspension, Hydraulic Suspension

2. Custom Wheels – Aftermarket wheels. (Stock wheels from another vehicle is not custom)

3. Body Modifications – Any permanent modifications to the exterior of the vehicle that alters stock features of the body.

4. Custom Paint – Graphics, two-tone, candy, metallic or flake, pin striping, etc. (Sticker Graphics are not paint)

Voting:

Most decisions regarding the club will be made by majority vote of the members in good standing.

1. A motion must be made before the club and seconded to bring a topic to a vote.

2. The majority of members and the majority of officers must be present for a valid vote to occur.

3. If there is a lack of membership present to have a valid vote, then the vote will be postponed and all members will be notified to attend the next available meeting date so that the vote may occur.

4. Voting in regards to the use of club funds is as follows:
a. Any amount under $50 can be approved by a majority vote of club officers.
b. Amounts $50 or greater must be approved by a vote of the majority of members and a majority of officers.

5. Voting of rule changes will be the responsibility of the officers. The officers will evaluate situations that occur and discuss a resolution and vote on rule changes that benefit the club as a whole. If a member has a disagreement with a rule change, then they may make a motion to change it. (Refer to Voting Section 1)

Caravan Rules:

A caravan consists of 3 or more club vehicles that have painted logos or petitioning member logo stickers.

1. Every member in a caravan must have headlights on at all times. Daytime Running Lights are not headlights.


2. All vehicles in a caravan should have a two-way radio with new batteries to communicate with each other.

3. Caravans will be led by officers in their club vehicles in ranking order (exceptions can be made under certain circumstances) followed by all other vehicles with painted logos, followed by vehicles with petitioning member stickers, followed by vehicles with no logos, followed lastly by the Sgt. at Arms.

4. A member may break out of a caravan for the following reasons:
a. Being pulled over by the police – If a member is pulled over by the police, the caravan will continue to the next exit and wait for the member to rejoin the caravan.
b. Vehicle problems – If a member is having mechanical problems with their vehicle, they should contact the leader of the caravan so that everyone may pull over at a safe location to correct the problem. If an emergency occurs, the member may break out of the caravan immediately and notify the leader so that the rest of the caravan may pull over in a safe location.
c. Taking pictures or video – Members may have permission to break out of a caravan to take pictures or video of the caravan.
d. Weaving in and out of the caravan, cutting other drivers off, blocking other drivers, reckless driving, driving under the influence are not permitted. However, retaliatory dragging may be permitted under certain circumstances.

5. If a vehicle breaks into the caravan, members will notify the leader and they will slow the caravan in order to squeeze the vehicle out. Do not break caravan and speed past the vehicle and cut it off. Other drivers will get out of the line if the line is moving too slow.

6. Caravan speed will be such that all vehicles are able to stay together.

7. Failure to follow caravan rules may result in a swat. (See Swats Section)

Swat Rules:

Swats are a form of raising funds for the club and to invoke a little humility in the members. You may receive a swat for the following reasons:

1. New Membership – Every new member voted into the club will receive a swat. All current members in good standing may bid on the swat. The new member does not have the option to buy out their swat.

2. Birthday – Every member may receive a swat on their birthday. All current Members in good standing may bid on the swat. However, the member receiving the swat may buy out their swat if their bid is the highest.

3. Late Dues – If a member falls 3 months behind in paying their dues they are eligible for a swat at the end of the 3rd month. The sum of the bid for this swat must be equal to or greater than $15 (3 months of dues). If the bid is less than $15 then the member behind on dues is still responsible to make up the difference. If a member continues to avoid paying dues after the 3rd month, they will be placed in bad standing with the club and receive a swat at the end of every month they fail to pay dues and will not be able to vote on club issues or participate in swatting other members until all dues are paid and the club deems them in good standing. A member may buy out of this swat.

4. Disrupting Meetings – A member who disrupts a meeting will receive 2 warnings. After the second warning the member may receive a swat. The member may buy out of this swat.

5. Breaking Traction – A member who intentionally breaks traction, such as doing a burn-out or exhibition of speed, may receive a swat. The member may buy out of this swat.

6. Breaking from Caravan – See caravan rules for exceptions. The member may buy out of this swat.

7. Driving Under the Influence – A member who drives under the influence is putting all of the members and themselves in danger and is a serious rule violation. A member will always have the option of letting another member drive them home at any time. There is no excuse for this rule violation. Therefore, the member will receive a swat and will not be able to buy out of this swat.

8. Reckless Driving – This includes speeding while weaving through traffic, road rage type driving, illegal street racing, swerving at other vehicles and cutting them off. A member who drives recklessly may receive a swat. The member may buy out of this swat.

9. Intentionally Hitting a Member in the Genitals – This is just not cool. A member may receive a swat for this but may buy out of it.

10. Attempts to continue the hazing of a member after their Virgin/Initiation Run has been completed.

11. If at an event and a member’s vehicle is in show, it must be cleaned initially while setting up for showing. Exceptions include rain, sand/dirt storms, bad weather conditions, primer and of course Ghetto Khamp.

12. “Pussy Swats” – Pussy Swats are swats that are deemed weak by the member that has been swatted. That member may swat the member that they were swatted by. However, the “Pussy Swat” clause cannot be called by a member receiving a punitive swat as a result of a rule violation. A member who violates the rules will not be permitted to receive any benefit for violating club rules. If a “Pussy Swat” occurs for a punitive swat then the other attending members may choose to bid on the swat and the person to be swatted may buy out of this swat.

13. Swat Bidding – Each swat will be auctioned off to all members present in good standing with the club. The highest bidder will either swat the member or choose another member in good standing to do the swatting. A member being swatted may buy out of their swat by out-bidding the highest bid. Members will not be able to buy out of swats for Driving Under the Influence, New Membership, and “Pussy Swats” that are not a result of a punitive swat. All money collected will go to the club treasury.

14. Female Swats – Female members are only eligible to swat each other. Male members are not allowed to swat female members and female members are not allowed to swat male members. However, if a female member requests to have an exception made so that she may swat a male member and if a “Pussy Swat” is called, then that female member is eligible to be swatted by a male member.

15. Swats from Members of Other Chapters – Members of other chapters of =SunSet= who choose to participate in swatting a member of a particular chapter must abide by the rules of the chapter the member being swatted is from.

16. Signing the Paddle – Each member swatted by the club paddle will sign, date and write a reason for the swat on the paddle.

17. Swat Technique – Hold the paddle with one hand only. No running starts. No wild baseball swings. We’re not trying to kill anyone.

18. Moving during a Swat – If a member receiving a swat flinches, falls down, moves in a way to try to weaken the swat, then they will receive an additional swat.

19. If a member refuses to take a swat, then that member cannot give a swat.

20. A member in bad standing with the club will be excluded from giving swats.

21. The Sgt. at Arms is entrusted to hold the swat paddle for the club. If the Sgt. at Arms does not have the paddle at any time that person will receive a swat.

Club Logo:

A distinguishing logo located on the rear window or rear section of a club vehicle. All club vehicles must have this logo. It shows that a member has pride in the club and the other members. The logo separates us from other clubs and shows the unity we have as a club. If a member does not wish to run a logo on their vehicle, then they probably shouldn’t be in a club.

1. New members have 90 days from the day they were voted into the club to obtain a logo for their club vehicle.

2. Current members who have purchased a new club vehicle will have 90 days to obtain a logo if that vehicle meets all club vehicle requirements. If the vehicle in question does not meet all club vehicle requirements, the member has a time frame to be determined by the club to meet the requirements. After the vehicle meets all requirements the member will have 90 days from that time to obtain a logo.

3. Parker is the authorized artist who paints the logo. His phone number is 760-631-1766. A member is responsible for making their own appointments.

4. The club logo must be uniform in size. Exceptions may be made when rear window sizes vary.

5. Although the basic logo design must remain in tact, colors, artwork within the letters and artwork surrounding the logo may vary. An outline of the logo may be painted so that vision through the back window is not completely obstructed but the logo must be easily recognizable from a reasonable distance.

6. All logos must be non-offensive. Tickets have been issued for logos that have had racial slurs, pornographic artwork, or offensive slogans in the past. Please use common sense when deciding on your artwork.

7. Multiple Vehicles – If a member has multiple club vehicles and intends to show either vehicle with the club, each vehicle must have a club logo if they meet the vehicle requirements.

Hazing (Virgin and Initiation Run):

This traditional hazing ritual that minitruckers go through prove to the club and themselves that they will be dedicated to the club. A member will earn a great deal of respect in the minitruck community and in the club if they participate in this long-time tradition. Remember, it’s supposed to be fun.

1. Virgin and Initiation Runs are voluntary. The club cannot force anyone to participate in this tradition. However, if a member does not participate in this ritual there is no limit to the harassment they’ll get from the other members of the club. Be prepared.

2. Virgin/Initiation Run – A virgin/initiation run is a tradition that is held for a new member of the club whether they have been to a legitimate 3-day truck run or not. A virgin/initiation run may only take place at a legitimate truck run camping event.

3. During the Initiation Run the new member may be ridiculed, serve members of the club, paraded around the campsite in miscellaneous clothing purchased by the members and consume ridiculous amounts of alcohol.

4. The club will not allow the runner/s to be hurt in any way by anyone.

5. The club will not allow the runner/s to consume anything that the person giving it to them does not consume first. This prevents the runner/s from consuming items that are not biodegradable or anything that could affect the health of a member.

6. Female members do not participate in the Virgin/Initiation Run. Therefore they will not be allowed to contribute in any way to another member’s Virgin/Initiation Run. The only exception to this rule is if the female member requests to go through the Virgin/Initiation Run. Exceptions with attire and activities will be made in this situation.

7. Members who choose not to participate in the Virgin/Initiation Run will not be allowed to contribute in any way to another member’s Virgin/Initiation Run. Only members who have gone through the hazing will be allowed to run other members.

8. After a member completes the Virgin/Initiation Run and is cleaned up, that member is DONE. Further attempts to continue the hazing a runner after this time will result in a swat.

Meetings:

Club meetings are held at “On The Border” restaurant. 103 Fletcher Parkway, El Cajon, CA, 92020, at 7 p.m. every Wednesday unless otherwise specified by the club.

1. The meetings will be brought to order by the Sgt. at Arms who will maintain order throughout the meeting.

2. The meeting will be presided over by the most senior officer in attendance.

3. The Secretary will take attendance of all members and petitioning members and make special note of all meetings and events that petitioning members
attend.

4.The Treasurer will have a report completed by the last meeting of each month of all transactions that have occurred during that month and the balance of the club account. A copy of that report will be submitted to the presiding officer of that meeting.

Removal of a Member:

A member may be removed from the club for, but not limited to, the following reasons:

1. Illegal street racing – This club is not a race team.

2. Attendance – Members are expected to attend a sufficient number of meetings and events to be determined by the club.

3. Disrespecting the Meeting Location – Meeting places are difficult to come by for large groups. If a member puts the club meeting location in jeopardy they’re membership may be terminated. A little respect goes a long way.

4. If a member brings negative attention to the club, they’re membership may be terminated. It takes a long time and is very difficult to build up a good reputation and it can be destroyed very quickly and easily. A member should think about how they’re representing the club when they’re at events. Remember, a member doesn’t just represent themselves; they represent all of the members in the club.

5. A membership may only be terminated by a majority vote of members and a majority vote of officers who must be present at voting for the vote to be valid.

6. Abandonment – When a member ceases to attend any events or meetings without contacting any officer of the club within 60 days. After 60 days, the member may be voted on to terminate membership.

Officer Elections:

Officer elections will be held annually in the month of November due to the fact that club rosters are due to the S.C.M.T.C. on the first Sunday of December for registration.

1. The majority of members and the majority of officers must be present for a valid vote to occur.

2. All members running for an officer position must be present for the election. If a member who is running for an officer position is not present for the election, their names will be removed from the ballot. Exceptions may be made for members who have a legitimate emergency and are unable to attend the elections.

3. A member must first be nominated by another member and must be accepted by the nominated member. Then the nomination must be seconded for a member’s name to be placed on the ballot.

4. Once the ballots are completed, one ballot will be passed out to each member which they will completely fill out and return to a neutral participant.

5. The newly elected officers will not assume their positions until January 1st.

Officer Descriptions:

All officers are expected to do more and go above and beyond what a regular member will do. They are looked upon as the leaders of the club and they should lead by example. This includes how they represent the club with their vehicles, logos, participation and attitudes. It takes a lot of time out of a person’s life to be an officer of a club. A member has to be willing to sacrifice a lot of their personal time to do the job of an officer. If a member is unable to do all of these things then they shouldn’t even attempt to become an officer of this club. All officers share the task of bettering the club.

1. President – A member must be an officer for a minimum of 1 year to be eligible to become President. The President is the highest ranking officer position which carries the most responsibility. This position is the premier representative of the club. When there is a problem of any kind with the club it is the President that is responsible for solving it. Since being a part of a club is voluntary it is important for the President to have the ability to motivate members and fellow officers in a positive way in order to accomplish tasks. The President must also deal with other officers of other clubs in a tactful manor. Public relations is important for the growth of the club and relaying a positive attitude is key. When the President makes decisions, that person must remember how many people those decisions will affect.

2. Vice President – A member must be in the club for a minimum of 1 full year to be eligible to become Vice President. This position is vital to the club and it is important that the people in this position and the President position are able to work well together. The person to fill this position must have the same attributes as the President because in the absence of the President, the Vice-President must fulfill all duties of the President. This position also carries a great deal of responsibility which include delegating responsibilities among the other officers.

3. Treasurer – A member must be in the club for a minimum of 1 full year to be eligible to become Treasurer. Trust is the main word used to describe a treasurer. This person is the keeper of all club funds, club check book, club bank account records and club ledger. The Treasurer is responsible for all money paid out and received for the club. They must be able to produce accurate records of all finances related to the club at any time. Any discrepancies must be reported to the President and Vice President immediately. All transactions should be documented and accounted for.

4. Secretary – A member must be in the club for a minimum of 6 months to be eligible to become Secretary. The person in this position must have excellent communication skills because they will be the main contact for all members of the club. The Secretary position is very important in relaying information to the entire membership such as show and event dates and times, meeting places and times. They must obtain show/event flyers and post them on the forum. Update the forum and delete outdated posts. The Secretary is responsible for gathering all paperwork necessary to register the club in S.C.M.T.C. annually. Take notes at meetings including member attendance.

5. Sgt. At Arms – A member must be in the club for a minimum of 6 months to be eligible to become Sgt. At Arms. This position is the enforcer of rules and order. The person in this position will regulate conduct at meetings, caravans, events, etc. It is important for the person in this position to have the ability to defuse a volatile situation whether it’s between members in the club or involves other people outside of our club. The person in this position is also the keeper of the swat paddle which they should have with them at all times.

6. Historian – A member must be in the club for a minimum of 6 months to be eligible to become Historian. The Historian documents the history of the club by taking pictures or video of the club at events. Obtaining flyers or magazine coverage of events that the club has participated in. Gathering magazine/newspaper clippings where the club is mentioned. These things are important to show petitioning members what the club is all about.