Official Governing Document of Ferris State
Student Radio
BULLDOG RADIO Constitution, Ferris State University
THE NETWORKS OF BULLDOG RADIO AT FERRIS STATE UNIVERSITY
Bulldog Radio and
FSU Info 530 AM
713 Campus Drive
Big Rapids, MI 49307
Phone (231) 591-2912
Fax (231) 591-2990
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CONSTITUTION OF BULLDOG RADIO
FERRIS STATE UNIVERSITY
AS ADAPTED FROM THE MICHIGAN TECHNOLOGICAL UNIVERSITY
WMTU-FM GOVERNING DOCUMENTS
FINAL DOCUMENT: NOVEMBER 2005
PREAMBLE
We, the students of Ferris State University, recognizing the need for a radio station to cater to the musical tastes of the student body, provide a radio station and mobile disc jockey service for campus and community; do hereby ordain this constitution for the operation of a student radio station and disc jockey service.
ARTICLE I: GOVERNING DOCUMENTS
The constitution shall serve as the document describing organization design and operation, whereas the bylaws will describe specific duties and procedures for positions within the organization. These documents will collectively be known as the governing documents of Bulldog Radio and will be strictly adhered to. This document will outline the amendment process for these documents. Failure to adhere to these documents by any member may result in termination from the organization.
ARTICLE II: RATIFICATION OF GOVERNING DOCUMENTS
The constitution and bylaws shall be declared adopted when approved by a two-thirds majority vote by all memberships during the general assembly meeting, and is subject to further approval by the Office of Student Leadership and Activities before being posted and accessible to the public.
ARTICLE III: AMENDMENTS TO GOVERNING DOCUMENTS
Section A: Amendments. Amendments to the constitution and bylaws may be presented in writing at any regularly scheduled general assembly meeting proposing the change, addition or deletion of material. A vote to accept an amendment may take place no sooner than the next general assembly meeting. Amendments will be treated with a first reading status during the first week of introduction, and will be in final reading status at the next meeting, where motions may be given to approve the amendment. The author may not make changes to the document after a first reading has occurred; however, the general assembly will be allowed to make amendments to the amendment before the motion to approve the final reading. A two-thirds majority vote of the general assembly members present (under quorum) shall be required to accept an amendment.
Section B: Enacting Amendments. An amendment to the constitution or bylaws shall become effective immediately unless otherwise specified and will be amended in the document and posted as soon as possible. An updated copy of the changed document will be sent to the Office of Student Leadership and Activities.
Section C: Indefinitely Tabling or Failure of an Amendment. Once an amendment has been tabled indefinitely, it will never be able to be introduced again using the same wording. A new amendment must be drawn up and passed through the appropriate phases. A failed amendment may be reconsidered in the event that a member who originally voted against the amendment makes a motion to reconsider OR after two semesters have passed.
ARTICLE IV: NAMES
The official name of the entire organization for which the radio stations and mobile disc jockey services shall operate under will be “Bulldog Radio,” and will be referred to as such hereafter. The registered student organization official name shall be “Bulldog Radio.” The marketing name of the organization, used to encompass the entire operation as a singly marketed entity, shall be “The Networks of Bulldog Radio.” The official name of the student radio station on cable television and the internet shall be “Bulldog Radio,” or may be shortened to “BDR” as a nickname (not WBDR or WFSU. No call letters should ever be mentioned or used on this station unless call letters are granted by the FCC). The official name of the mobile disc jockey services division shall be “Bulldog Radio Mobile DJ Services.” The official name of the WPHH450-AM traveler’s information station shall be “FSU Info 530.”
ARTICLE V: PURPOSE
The purpose of Bulldog Radio shall be to provide a comprehensive and
well-rounded array of music and informational resource options for Ferris’
listening pleasure. It will also expand students’ entertainment options
primarily through musical broadcasts and live mobile performances, in
addition to providing campus information for visitors through the traveler’s
information station. Additionally, Bulldog Radio has a purpose to:
• Provide a broad array of entertainment, in what ever form most applicable
to students including music and talk shows, for the listening pleasure of
all of Ferris State University
• Inform the campus of upcoming events
• Provide information about campus
• Give students a way to network
• Offer an opportunity to learn about the music industry and utilize and
enhance the skills of potential broadcasters
• Continue building on the station’s reputation of becoming Ferris State
University’s number one media source and increase awareness of the
organization’s existence on and off campus
• Achieve recognition as one of Ferris State University’s most prestigious
registered student organizations through honors such as five-star status as
designated by the Office of Student Leadership and Activities
• Eventually establish an AM or FM radio station for the Bulldog Radio
station to expand broadcasting capabilities
• Provide mobile disc jockey services for the campus organizations and
departments as well as the Big Rapids community at a reasonable rate with
quality equipment and the latest musical selections.
ARTICLE VI: OPERATIONS
Section A: Academic Year. The organization shall operate in full capacity with weekly meetings during the regular academic year (fall and winter semesters). Financial and executive decisions shall take place during this time period. Mobile disc jockey clients and events will be accepted during this period, and shows will be performed on a regular weekly basis. Academic year activities will be put on hiatus during the week of final exams each semester.
Section B: Summer Semester. Summer semester operation will occur beginning the first week of summer semester and end the last week of summer semester, as determined by the Ferris State University records office. During this time period, members will not be required to do a show or meet weekly; rather they will be allowed to do shows on-air at their leisure, preferably during a scheduled time. A summer manager, who will be appointed by the current executive board, will oversee the members interested in summer broadcasting. Financial and executive decisions will not take place during this time period. Mobile disc jockey events will also not be accepted during this time period.
Section C: Bulldog Radio. Bulldog Radio shall operate as a cable
television radio station on cable channel 22 on the Big Rapids campus, and
channel 21 Charter Communications cable television. The channel assignments
on both systems are not under the control of the organization; rather they
are owned and operated by entities other than Bulldog Radio, and are subject
to change or termination at any time without notice. Bulldog Radio will also
webcast to the internet via the organization’s official website at
www.bulldogradio.org. This webcast will be unlicensed as the law allows.
Royalties for music will be paid by the University yearly through the
department of Humanities. Engineering responsibilities are handled by
Bulldog Radio but the station may receive additional support from the
department of Telecommunications.
Section D: Mobile DJ Services. Bulldog Radio Mobile DJ Services shall
operate as a unit of the organization which offers mobile disc jockey
services to Ferris State students, organizations and departments (first) and
the public (second). Revenue from this unit will be deposited immediately
into the organization’s bank account. Rates for the services are preset by
the Finance Division of Student Government at $10 an hour for any
organization or department affiliated with Ferris State University (and thus
if a change in rate is necessary in the future, the Division of Finance must
make this decision). Any additional rates or services offered are set by the
organization and outlined in this governing document. Rates for public
organizations or businesses will be determined yearly by the Executive
Board.
Section E: FSU Info 530. FSU Info 530 is operated through automation and production by the Bulldog Radio organization specifically tailored to provide information to the visitors of the campus (and by FCC licensing cannot be changed to offer any other service). Engineering on this station is handled by the Electronics Engineering Technology program of the College of Technology, with the transmission systems located in the Swan Building, 4th floor. University Advancement and Marketing will provide content for the looped program, which will run 24 hours a day. Production and air will be the responsibility of Bulldog Radio. The program will contain an FCC legal ID for transmission once an hour on the station, mentioning the calls and city of license, WPHH450 Big Rapids. This station will also be webcast on the official organization web site.
ARTICLE VII: OWNERSHIPS
Section A: Studio A. Studio A is located in Masselink Commons Telecommunications complex, in the lower level of the building. The studio is part of an allocation of space for the Department of Telecommunications and is negotiated to be used by Bulldog Radio. Rights to use the studio can be revoked at any time.
Section B: Studio B. Studio B and the organization’s office are located in Masselink Commons tower, first level. The office is part of an allocation of space from the department of Housing for use by Bulldog Radio. Rights to use this office and studio can be revoked at any time.
Section C: Display Cases. Display cases are located in the Masselink Commons lobby; one in between the fire alarm system and drinking fountain and the other near the pop machines. These display cases are the property of the department of Housing and their use by Bulldog Radio can be revoked at any time. Use is based on verbal agreement with the current hall director of the building.
Section D: Equipment. All equipment including, but not limited to, studio equipment and mobile disc jockey services equipment are under the possession of the Bulldog Radio organization including equipment allocated by the Finance Division of Student Government. If the organization ceases to exist or the University so deems the organization unfit to operate, Ferris State University maintains all rights to retain possession and rights to the equipment.
Section E: Music. All music, whether digital or physical, is the property of the Bulldog Radio organization and will never be duplicated for any reason other than station transmission or mobile disc jockey services or backup purposes. Illegal copying and distribution of music owned by Bulldog Radio is strictly prohibited and is grounds for termination from the organization, including referral to Student Judicial Services, or expulsion from the University as determined by the Office of Student Affairs.
Section F: Utilities. Utility services are owned and paid for by Ferris State University and the department of Telecommunications, and include, but are not limited to, telephones and telephone service, cable television, internet/network connectivity, electricity, heating and air conditioning. These services can be revoked without notice at any time.
Section G: Accounts and Funding. Bank accounts are handled and owned by Bulldog Radio. The official banking institution shall be Huntington Bank of Big Rapids. In the event of issues with funding for the organization, Bulldog Radio will hold responsible any person that has caused the issue through judicial action via Student Judicial Services. The primary sources of funding for Bulldog Radio are dues assessed to members each semester and payments received for Bulldog Radio Mobile DJ Services Provided. Assistance for funding may be sought by the organization from the department of Telecommunications, but assistance is not guaranteed. Additional funding is available for the station through the Division of Finance of Student Government, as outlined by the Division’s Rules of Appropriation and Allocation.
Section H: Website. Bulldog Radio currently owns website space allocated from UCV Hosting, at ucvhost.com (but the organization is not limited from using other hosting providers). The domain associated with the website is also allocated to Bulldog Radio, at www.bulldogradio.org. These items renew yearly at a very low cost to the organization, but not automatically. Information on renewal comes during the summer in the bulldogradio@bulldogradio.org email account. It is required that Bulldog Radio operates and maintains a website for marketing and information purposes.
Section I: Computer Graphics System. The Bulldog Radio computer graphics system (files belonging to the system) is the property of Bulldog Radio. The system is updated and maintained by Media Production, FLITE Library. Amendments to the system shall be made by the Station Manager and sent to the media production coordinator for such graphics systems. If at any point in time insufficient operation by media production occurs, Bulldog Radio reserves the right to terminate the connection and agreement between media production and shall move computer graphics operations to Telecommunications.
ARTICLE VIII: MEMBERSHIP
Section A. General Members
1. General members are basic members of the organization. This encompasses
all other forms of membership first and foremost. General members are not
executive board members (by system of classification), but can be mobile
disc jockey service members.
2. General members must be students at the Ferris State University-Big
Rapids campus, with a GPA of 2.0 or higher (students without a GPA are able
to join on a one-semester probationary basis until a GPA has been
established).
3. General members must attend weekly meetings during the academic year as
announced by the executive board.
4. General members must have read, filled out and signed all documentation
as designated by the executive board.
5. General members must train for five hours in-studio and at least one hour
using mobile disc jockey services equipment. In-studio training hours will
consist of a list of training objectives to completed and authorized by
signature by the trainer. In-studio training hours must be completed with an
E-board member or a member of the general assembly who has a show
established for at least 1 full semester. Trainees must first contact the
trainer member to gain his or her
approval, then training with the member during their show. Mobile services
hours must be completed with the Mobile Manager or their designee. Once
hours have been completed, they will be sent to the Trainee Manager, who
will check these hours and recommend approval for membership to the Vice
President and President (both must approve). Once becoming a full member,
the student shall remain a full member until the end of their academic
residency at Ferris State University, assuming all requirements are met,
dues are paid, and there are no disciplinary actions held against the
member.
6. General members must pay dues of $10.00 per semester (fall and winter
semesters) after becoming a full member of the organization, having
completed training and received an official notice from the organization
upgrading their status from trainee to full member. Dues are non-refundable.
7. General members must be knowledgeable about all organization operations
and should be familiar with the operation of equipment both mobile and
in-studio. Failure to obtain satisfactory knowledge on basic organization,
studio and mobile operations may result in suspension or termination of
membership as determined by the executive board.
8. General members must, at the very least, produce a weekly one-hour show
on Bulldog Radio during their membership. This show will take place at the
specified time slot given to them by the Station Manager. Members may
produce their own content in whatever capacity (using whatever medium
available, on whatever format desired) provided it is decent in nature.
Shows may contain one, two, or three members but each member must do an hour
each week to satisfy requirements.
9. Members of the organization are only eligible for sponsorship (i.e.
Homecoming Representative) by Bulldog Radio if they have had member status
for 1-year and are currently an active member at the time of sponsorship
request.
10. General members may be impeached, as outlined in the bylaws.
Section B: Executive Board Members
1. The executive board shall consist of the following executive positions,
which are outlined in the bylaws: President/General Manager, Vice
President/Operations Manager, Station Manager, Mobile Disc Jockey Services
Manager (Mobile Manager), Trainee Manager, Administrative Manager
(Secretary), Financial Manager (Treasurer), Promotions Manager and Community
Service Manager.
2. Executive board members must adhere to all general member requirements
except for the payment of due, having a weekly show, and GPA. Executive board
members are exempt from paying dues during their length of time in office.
If a member has already paid dues, they are non-refundable. They are not
required to produce a show, but may still do so. Each member of the
Executive board must maintain a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0. Failure to
do so will result in forfeit of the position.
3. Executive board members will be selected during the first week of April
each and every year by process of secret ballot to be voted upon by all
general members, executive board members and advisors. Election details will
be outlined in the bylaws. The incoming executive board will be placed in
office officially at the final meeting of the year, which will be determined
by the President/General Manager.
4. If a vacancy occurs in any office of the executive board membership, the
President/General Manager may distribute the duties of the office to
remaining board members or appoint a general staff member to the vacant
position on an interim basis until a permanent replacement is found. The
general assembly will appoint a new executive board member to serve for the
remainder of the term to the vacant position within one month of the
vacancy.
5. Executive board members are first and foremost general members and may be
impeached from office (as outlined in the bylaws).
Section C: Mobile Disc Jockey Service Members
1. General members and executive board members have the option of becoming
mobile disc jockey service members. While this membership is not a
requirement, it is suggested that over half of the general assembly (full
membership) take part in this membership to ensure proper operation of the
mobile disc jockey services unit. If membership drops below an acceptable
level (as determined by the Mobile Manager with consent of the Executive
Board), general members will be required to also become mobile disc jockey
service members. In the event of this provision, all members will be
required to participate in no less than four (4) mobile DJ events per
semester.
2. Mobile disc jockey service members must be familiar with equipment and
procedures for events, as well as rules and operation of the mobile disc
jockey services unit. Failure to obtain satisfactory knowledge on basic
mobile operations may result in suspension or termination of membership as
determined by the executive board.
3. The Mobile Disc Jockey Services Manager shall preside as the head member
of the mobile disc jockey service membership and will provide opportunities
for members to perform at events as they become available.
Section D: Advisors
1. An academic and technical advisor (one per position) shall serve as the
official advisors to the organization, presiding over all memberships. The
academic advisor shall provide all support services academically as well as
with any membership issues that require assistance. The technical advisor
will serve as a main contact for all technical issues to the organization
whether in-studio, in-office, or with mobile equipment. Advisor duties are
outlined in the bylaws document.
Section E: Trainees
1. Trainees shall be defined as any student interested in becoming a general
member of Bulldog Radio but has not completed the training requirements to
do so.
2. Trainees have no voting rights.
3. Trainees will not be allowed to possess and perform their own show or
perform at mobile disc jockey events.
Section F: Equality
1. Bulldog Radio shall not discriminate on the basis of race, religion,
color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, height, weight,
handicap, veteran status, political views or marital status.
ARTICLE IX: MEETINGS
Section A: General Assembly Meetings
1. General assembly meetings consist of the entire membership, optionally
including advisors.
2. General assembly meetings will be held weekly at a specified time and
location, as determined and posted by the executive board. The executive
board will make the meeting time and location known to the membership and
general public at least two weeks prior to the meeting date. Meetings shall
only take place during the academic year (during fall and winter semesters)
and will not be held during the week of final exams.
3. Unless excused beforehand by the Vice President or an approved designate,
attendance for generally assembly meetings is mandatory for all members.
4. The purpose of general assembly meetings shall be to approve
expenditures, make amendments to the constitution and bylaws, elect
executive board members, welcome new members (trainees), take action
concerning the removal or reinstatement of members and make other decisions
regarding the operation of the organization.
5. Unless otherwise stated, the support of the majority (50 percent plus
one) of present general members shall be required for a motion to pass. The
President/General Manager shall only vote in the event of a tie. Quorum for
votes shall be 50 percent plus one or more of the total membership present
for a motion to pass.
6. Meetings will be informally run but will use parliamentary procedure
(under the most current edition of Robert’s Rules of Order) when making
motions and voting on items concerning organization business.
Section B: Executive Board Meetings
1. Executive board meetings shall take place no less than once a month
during the fall and winter semesters. Additional meetings may be called by
the President/General Manager or any executive board member that feels a
meeting is in order.
2. Unless excused beforehand by the Vice President or an approved designate,
attendance is mandatory for all executive board meetings.
3. The purpose of executive board meetings shall be to maintain
communications and coordinate efforts amongst executive board members and
provide recommendations to the general assembly.
4. A two-thirds majority of the executive board staff must be present to
constitute a quorum.
5. Advisors are encouraged, but are not required, to attend executive board
meetings.
6. Unless otherwise stated, the support of a majority (50 percent plus one)
of present executive board members shall be required for a motion to pass.
The President/General Manager shall vote in the event of a tie. Advisors
will not be included in votes.
ARTICLE X: FINANCES
Section A: Funds
1. Principal funding will come from revenue from mobile disc jockey service
clients and membership dues. Bulldog Radio may also derive financial support
from the Student Activity Fund as allocated by the Finance Division of
Student Government. Additionally, the organization may also secure financial
assets through underwriting from campus departments or other organizations
or outside businesses, with fundraising activities, or by other legal means.
Section B: Bank Accounts
1. The official banking institution shall be Huntington Bank of Big Rapids.
In the event of issues regarding funding for the organization, Bulldog Radio
will hold responsible any person that has caused the issue through judicial
action.
2. Checks shall be administered via the Financial Manager, who will also
possess an electronic check card. The President/General Manager will also
possess an electronic check card but will not purchase items or services
without prior notification to the Financial Manager. No purchase greater
than $50.00 shall be made without the consent of the General Assembly unless
the purchase is deemed an Emergency Purchase (outlined below).
3. A Ferris State University account may be established in the future,
sponsored by a specific campus department who will take on accounting
responsibilities. This will allow for interdepartmental transfers of funds.
Section C: Administration of Funds
1. The Financial Manager of the organization shall handle all administration
of funds and report weekly to the general assembly on the status of the
account, expenditures and revenue incurred. This includes possession of all
bank statements and check books, as well as an electronic check card. The
Financial Manager will serve as the principal purchasing agent or will
designate another person as such under their discretion.
2. The Financial Manager will also handle online accounting access and will
maintain the account using this system as well as a check register,
recording and maintaining a running balance of all expenditures and revenue.
3. In the event the Financial Manager is unable or unavailable to perform
their duties, one advisor shall administer the account(s).
Section D: Allocations
1. The general assembly may allocate any amount of funding toward any item
or service for the good of the organization as a result of a majority vote
under quorum as previously described.
2. Purchases needing immediate approval (that without approval may cause
detriment to the organization due to its immediacy) may be approved only by
unanimous vote of the executive board. An exception to this rule is if the
purchase is less than $50.00 and the item or service is an operating
expenditure; it may then be approved by the President/General Manager and
Financial Manager.
3. Allocations for purchases will cease to occur at the point the
organization is within $100.00 of a $0.00 account balance. The exception to
this rule shall be by unanimous vote of the general assembly and only in the
event that the purchase will assist with revenue.
4. Purchases over $1000.00 must have unanimous consent from the general
assembly and shall be made with the electronic check card.
5. Emergency purchases under $300.00 (purchases immediately necessary to
keep the organization in working order) shall be allowed, but must be
immediately reported to the Financial Manager. These purchases will not
require an allocation to have been passed by the General Assembly or the
Executive Board; rather, the President/General Manager shall allocate the
emergency purchase and will be required to report the purchase at the next
General Assembly meeting. If the General Assembly disagrees with the
purchase, the item or service must be refunded, if possible.
ARTICLE XI: MEMBERSHIP REGULATIONS
Section A: Indecent Material. The Federal Communications Commission has produced a decency standard for all broadcast television and radio stations in the country. Bulldog Radio strictly adheres to these standards and requires that all students avoid the following words on-air: fuck, shit, piss, god-damn-it, cunt, prick, cock, pussy, tits, motherfucker, cocksucker, asshole and bitch. Also, no racial slurs are to be mentioned, nor are any other obscene or derogatory comments. No mention of genitalia or bodily functions will be permitted unless they are to be used in a scientific or medical context. This indecent material clause pertains to the performance of music and disc jockey on-air performance.
Any member found to be within violation of indecent broadcasting will be subject to the liability process described in the governing documents.
Bulldog Radio does not, and will not, operate under the FCC’s safe harbor laws enabling indecent material to air after a certain time during the daypart.
Section B: Liability. As a member of the organization, members represent the organization, Student Leadership and Activities, the student body and Ferris State University as a whole. The things a member does, says and airs on the station or with the mobile disc jockey equipment are the responsibility of the member. Any violation of indecency laws as created by the FCC, University policies, or Bulldog Radio constitutional laws can be detrimental to both the member and the organization’s operation, and quite possibly Ferris State University as well.
The liability system has been set up to ensure maximized longevity and a clean reputation of the Bulldog Radio organization. The system is a THREE STRIKE system, which will roll over each semester and academic year until the student has completed their academic residency at Ferris State University.
The offense system is as follows:
• FIRST OFFENSE includes a written and verbal warning, which will be put
on file at the station. In addition to the written warning, the member MUST
attend a meeting with the President, Vice President and, if deemed
necessary, one or both advisors of the organization BEFORE their next
scheduled show or mobile disc jockey service event.
• SECOND OFFENSE includes an IMMEDIATE SUSPENSION. If the offense merits a
meeting with judicial services, the member will receive a letter from said
office. The member will not be able to broadcast a show or do a mobile disc
jockey service event during his or her suspension. The suspension will last
for no less than four (4) weeks, but no more than fifteen (15) weeks as
determined by the Executive Board.
• THIRD OFFENSE means IMMEDIATE DISMISSAL FROM Bulldog Radio. The member
will receive a notice from judicial services and/or student affairs to
appear for a hearing on the subject. The member will no longer be able to
rejoin the organization or any other affiliated organization dealing with
radio broadcasting for the remainder of their academic residency at Ferris
State University.
Appeals may be taken, but all decisions after appeal are FINAL. The entire executive board, including both advisors, as well the Vice President for student affairs must be present for the appeal hearing.
Offenses are measured by their seriousness, which is something to be determined by the executive board of the organization with advisement from the Office of Student Affairs as well as the advisors. If an offense is serious enough in nature, it will merit an immediate second or third strike offense as determined unanimously by the Executive Board.
Strikes will be officially handed down by the Vice President and are considered and decided by the President/General Manager and Advisors in the event of a disagreement. Any Executive Board member may recommend that a strike be given to any member, to the Vice President.
Section C: Attendance. In order to maintain a successful organization, members must be in attendance at all times. All aspects of the organization including on-air shows, mobile disc jockey events and meetings are mandatory as described previously. Members wishing to be excused from duties in the organization may do so by gaining clearance only from the Vice President, but only for reasons pertaining to academic and family commitments or as deemed appropriate by the Vice President. All other absences will be considered unexcused. Logs from attendance at meetings, mobile events and in-studio shows are checked weekly and will be used to evaluate the member’s situation.
Disciplinary action for attendance is as follows:
1. Second unexcused absence results in a written warning to the member.
2. Third unexcused absence results in a strike, as outlined in the liability
system.
3. Fourth unexcused absence results in another strike, as outlined by the
liability system.
4. Fifth unexcused absence results in a third and final strike, as outlined
by the liability system and means immediate and permanent termination from
the organization.
Section D: Academic or Disciplinary Probation. Students placed on academic or disciplinary probation, as determined by Student Judicial Services and the Student Affairs office, will not be allowed admission to the organization, or will be suspended if already a member. Suspensions will be lifted by decision of the Academic Advisor following either the removal of the academic or disciplinary probation from the student’s record, or, after documentation has been produced from a University official stating that the student is no longer on probation or is recommended for activity. If a member does fall below the required GPA guideline as previously specified, they will be placed on probation from the organization and will be allowed to rejoin only after the next report of grades (either midterm or final grades). Students still on probation after one semester from the occurrence probation will be terminated from the organization but may reapply for membership upon achieving the necessary GPA.
ARTICLE XII: ORGANIZATION POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
Section A: Radio Station Broadcasting
1. Only general members and trainees are allowed in the studio at any time,
unless a guest form has been submitted and approved allowing the guest to
sit in or broadcast with the member.
2. The full capacity of the studio is four people. Broadcast capacity is
limited to two people on-air at once.
3. Keep the studio clean. Throw all trash away, return equipment to its
proper order and ensure the studio is operating correctly before leaving.
4. Members should use common sense when broadcasting and consider their
audience and decency standards.
5. Members must abide by FCC decency regulations as well as all federal,
state, local, University and organization policies.
6. Members must sign-in and out of the studio using the computerized logging
system.
7. Members must log all music played in the music log using the computerized
logging system.
8. Members must keep equipment in the same operating order as it is normally
in. No changing of settings on computers or equipment is allowed without
first getting approval from the technical advisor or Station Manager.
9. Members are responsible for the equipment at all times. If equipment
becomes missing, stolen, damaged or otherwise due to improper use, the
member may be required to pay for any charges incurred to replace or fix the
equipment.
10. Report to the Station Manager immediately if there is a problem with
equipment, another member, an indecent broadcast, or a harassing caller or
visitor.
11. Members must swipe their card through the card reader to log their shift
in electronically, and log out by pressing the red button to exit the
studio.
12. Read any announcements/events on air, as specified for the week, if
programming allows. Announcements will be posted on the bulletin board in
the spot designated by the Station Manager.
13. The studio phone is not for personal calls. Since the organization
possesses one line, it needs to remain open for requests and business.
14. Members with the last show of the day or that do not have a show coming
after theirs should insert the ‘sign off’ file into the playlist to be
played after their show ends.
15. The automation system should be taken out of auto pilot upon the member
beginning their show and should be put back into auto pilot at the end.
Failure to do so will cause the station to go off air, which the member will
be responsible for, and may merit a strike.
16. Playing or reading legal IDs at the top of the hour (which automatically
inserts itself into the playlist at the :00 mark) is/are required. Playing
the additional spots or return to music rotators, as well as the :30 refresh
ID are optional.
17. Members should talk at least three times during their show so as to
allow listeners to hear a live person in the studio. It is recommended that
members talk as much as possible so as to provide an enjoyable interaction
between the member and the listeners.
18. Do not bang on countertops or equipment.
19. Members are required to ensure all music is appropriately edited before
airing it. Additionally, members may wish to check CDs for skipping and
other audio problems.
20. Whenever possible, members should make smooth song transitions by using
techniques such as crossfading between channels and talking over music
(‘ramping’ songs during their intro).
21. Members should not neglect their show by doing homework or not paying
attention to the studio while on the air.
22. All food and drinks are strictly prohibited in the studio. Do not chew
gum, eat candy or mints while on the air.
23. Use the equipment appropriately. Members should not engage in illegal
activity using organization equipment including, but not limited to, music
downloading or copying, harassment, hacking, etc. Additionally, lewd
material should never be viewed on organization computers or monitoring
equipment. Doing so may merit a strike.
24. All members are required to read the studio training guide to
familiarize themselves with the equipment.
25. Do not touch any equipment on the equipment rack unless designated to do
so by the Station Manager.
26. The television in the studio is provided as a station monitor. Changing
the channel and watching other programming is prohibited with the exception
of monitoring sports, news, or weather relating to a show. Exceptions to
this may be warranted with specific permission from the Station Manager. The
volume should always remain turned off during live air, and station must be
returned to Bulldog Radio when leaving the studio.
Section B: Mobile Disc Jockey Service Performances
1. The mobile disc jockey service manager will act as the main contact for
all clients and will schedule all services to be rendered. The mobile disc
jockey membership will vote on approval of performances and will schedule
opportunities for members to perform at the performance.
2. Fees for services provided to campus organizations and departments are
set by the Student Government Division of Finance at $10.00 per hour (as per
the original purchase agreement for our equipment). Additional fees, such as
charges for performance at non-University-related events, transportation
fees and late fees are set yearly at the discretion of the General Assembly.
3. Performances shall have two hours of additional hourly charges to
compensate for setup and teardown.
4. Only executive board members have access to the office to get equipment.
Certain executive board members will possess a key, and the rest will need
to use the key located in the lock box in the studio.
5. Only full members are permitted to use any mobile disc jockey equipment.
Setup and teardown by non-members is permitted only if a member is currently
present to oversee progress.
6. As in the studio, members are responsible for the equipment at all times.
If equipment becomes missing, stolen, damaged or otherwise, the member may
be required to pay for any charges incurred to replace or fix the equipment.
Any equipment that is damaged due to the carelessness of any of the client’s
members or guests will be repaired or replaced by the client at full cost.
7. Members should keep in mind that when they are in public with the
equipment, they are representing the organization as well as the University.
Communication with businesses/organizations during performances is important
and should occur in a business-like fashion.
8. One or more Executive Board member(s) must be present at each performance
and will oversee setup, teardown and will communicate and collect payment
from the client for remittance to the financial advisor as soon as possible.
The Executive Board members(s) are not required to stay for the duration of
the event unless deemed necessary.
9. Organizations requesting services must provide transportation for the
equipment. If client is unable to provide transportation, the fees incurred
the organization for transportation will be given to the member that
provides the transportation for Bulldog Radio’s equipment in the form of a
check. This check will be written by the Financial Manager at the next
general assembly meeting. If a
10. The Mobile Disc Jockey Services Manager will notify the client that
payment is due before the performance begins (such as during set up) and
MUST be in the form of a check. A receipt book is located in the equipment
case and will be written to organizations asking for a copy of the receipt.
All payment should be immediately referred to the executive board member on
duty at the event, who should in turn remit the payment to the Financial
Manager. If a client fails to pay their bill by the specified time period,
the Mobile Manager will be contacted and the performance may be terminated
at their discretion.
11. Members are required to play music that is specific to the occasion.
Members should keep in mind that what they may enjoy hearing may not be what
others would like to hear. Members should play only clean music that follows
the FCC guidelines for proper public performance, unless the group specifies
that Bulldog Radio can play unedited music at the performance. This
information will be relayed to the members participating in the performance
prior to its occurrence.
12. If any problems occur, members should alert the Mobile Disc Jockey
Services Manager immediately and assist in rectifying the situation.
13. Members that sign up to perform at performances are expected to adhere
to their commitment to the organization and to show up on time and ready to
perform and assist with setup and teardown. Issues with attendance as
previously outlined will explain disciplinary measures that could be taken
for members violating attendance policies.
14. Please log all songs played on the provided notebook in the equipment
case and allot a notebook specifically to use for music requests by the
crowd.
15. Mobile disc jockey performances are prohibited during summer semester
and final exam week.
16. Potential clients requesting mobile disc jockey services by Bulldog
Radio must do so in application form electronically through the web site,
and must be submitted at least two weeks before the event to avoid late
charges. Submission of applications for service does not guarantee a client
will receive Bulldog Radio’s services.
17. Clients that wish to cancel services from Bulldog Radio must contact the
organization within 7 days of the event occurring. Failure to do so will
result in the client incurring the entire cost of the event.
18. A minimum 10-foot square area along with a 6 to 8 foot table must be
provided at the venue for the equipment and the members performing.
Additionally, power (120 volts, preferably on its own circuit) must be
provided within 20 feet of the equipment. No food or beverages should be
near the equipment.
BYLAWS OF BULLDOG RADIO
FERRIS STATE UNIVERSITY
AS ADAPTED FROM THE MICHIGAN TECHNOLOGICAL UNIVERSITY
WMTU-FM GOVERNING DOCUMENTS
FINAL DOCUMENT
ARTICLE I: EXECUTIVE BOARD MEMBERS AND DUTIES
Section A. President/General Manager:
1. Shall ultimately be responsible for the programming and content on
Bulldog Radio’s on-air station.
2. Shall ultimately be responsible for operation of the mobile disc jockey
services unit.
3. Shall establish the agenda for all executive board and general assembly
meetings.
4. Shall serve as the chair to all meetings. The President may elect to have
the Vice President chair a meeting.
5. Will not have voting rights unless a tie has taken place.
6. Shall oversee the performances and organizational conduct of all members.
7. Shall have final authority to speak on behalf of Bulldog Radio as an
organization and will handle public relations matters.
8. Shall maintain the web site.
9. Shall work to establish new relationships and maintain good working
relationships with supporting departments and organizations on and off
campus.
10. Shall be in charge of collecting mail from the Rankin Center mail box
for the organization and checking voicemail and email at the office.
11. Shall be in charge of all technical and administrative aspects of
broadcast and automation, including the automated phone system, transmission
to Telecommunications, webcasting, and the card reading system, as well as
administration of office space.
12. Shall be responsible for assisting any of the executive officers in
accomplishing their duties if the need for help arises or is deemed
necessary.
13. Shall communicate on a weekly basis with both advisors of the
organization.
14. Shall hold at least 3 hours of office time a week, which will be posted
to the membership and the public.
Section B. Vice President/Operations Manager:
1. Shall assist the President/General Manager in all duties and
responsibilities.
2. Shall exercise Presidential authority only if the President/General
Manager is incapacitated or explicitly assigns authority for a specified
circumstance or event.
3. Shall assist the Mobile DJ Services Manager if an event arises.
4. Shall assist the Station Manager and in their positions running the
station and will evaluate and recommend changes as necessary.
5. Shall act as assessor of internal operations, keeping track of member
attendance and disciplinary actions.
6. Shall be in charge of making sure the organization works as a group and
that the environment is conducive to progress and proper operation.
7. Shall be in charge of the operation of the Ferris Fest Second Stage
program, as sponsored yearly in April.
8. Shall be responsible for taking attendance at general assembly meetings.
Section C. Station Manager
1. Shall be responsible for content on the radio station, including
operation of the automation systems and equipment used for broadcasting.
2. Shall be responsible for scheduling shows for members, and the subsequent
amendment of this information the computer graphics system and the website
schedule.
3. Shall be responsible for cleanliness of the studio.
4. Shall be responsible for the enforcement of all rules relating to the
studio and broadcasting.
5. Shall be the head contact regarding issues with studio training.
6. Shall upload and maintain the music library, electronic or physical, and
will work to maintain the integrity and operation of the station’s
automation system.
7. Shall upload or “rip” recorded shows and materials into the automation
system.
Section D. Mobile Disc Jockey Services Manager
1. Shall be responsible for maintaining the supply of all materials, music
and equipment needed to perform using the mobile disc jockey equipment.
2. Shall act as the handling agent for all applications for mobile disc
jockey service events.
3. Shall act as the primary contact for all clients for the mobile disc
jockey service.
4. Shall be in charge of maintaining the calendar of events for the
organization online for view by mobile disc jockey service members.
5. Shall be in charge of maintaining performance work schedules for members
interested in performing at an event.
6. Shall be responsible for the entire mobile disc jockey services
membership of Bulldog Radio.
7. Shall be responsible for making sure members are available to perform at
a performance and will approve or deny applications for service as
appropriate.
8. Shall be responsible for providing training to trainees on mobile
equipment.
9. Shall be responsible for the maintenance and condition of mobile
equipment.
10. Shall relay client payments to the Financial Manager as soon as
possible.
Section E. Trainee Manager
1. Shall be responsible for making sure potential trainees of the
organization are informed as to the processes and inner workings of the
organization.
2. Shall communicate regularly with the general assembly as to the progress
of the trainees and will communicate with the trainees and aid with training
where appropriate.
3. Shall be the main contact for questions and clarifications from potential
members.
4. Shall meet weekly following the general assembly meeting with trainees to
discuss issues, questions or ideas.
5. Shall keep track of all trainee paperwork submissions and keep track of
training hours.
6. Shall recommend trainees that have finished training to the
President/General Manager and Vice President/Operations Manager for
approval.
Section F. Administrative Manager
1. Shall be known as the official organization secretary for Registered
Student Organization purposes.
2. Shall be responsible for all paperwork regarding membership for the
organization and maintaining said information in a computerized form that is
readily available to the executive board.
3. Shall be responsible for relaying information to members and trainees as
deemed necessary by the President/General Manager.
4. Shall be responsible for taking minutes at each meeting and distributing
those minutes as soon as possible to the members and trainees.
Section G. Financial Manager
1. Shall maintain an accurate and complete account of all organization
funds.
2. Shall be in charge of correspondence with the financial institution
and/or University account manager, as well as corresponding with members
that owe money to the organization.
3. Shall act as the purchasing agent for the organization.
4. Shall be responsible for all accounts owned by Bulldog Radio, including
balancing, reporting, and expenditures and revenue incurred.
5. Shall be responsible for the collection and reporting of membership dues
at the beginning of each semester.
6. Shall possess access to the online banking system, one of the two
checking cards (the second belonging to the President/General Manager) and
the check book and register.
Section H. Promotions Manager
1. Shall work with local businesses to promote Bulldog Radio to the
community.
2. Shall assist in providing prizes to be given away on-air by way of
donations from local businesses or University departments or organizations.
3. Shall work to promote the Bulldog Radio organization in as many
capacities as possible.
4. Shall assist in marketing the station and programming special Bulldog
Radio public events.
Section I. Community Service Manager
1. Shall be responsible for reporting all community service hours in order
to maintain the Bulldog Radio 5-star registered student organization status.
2. Shall act as the overall contact for students reporting community service
hours for Bulldog Radio mobile disc jockey performances or radio shows.
3. Shall report to the academic advisor on the progress of the
organization’s community service hours.
4. Shall be responsible for filling out the appropriate 5-star registered
student organization paperwork and turning said paperwork in at the
appropriate time.
ARTICLE II: STUDENT GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVE AND DUTIES
The Student Government representative shall have the responsibility of representing the organization during Student Government general assembly meetings. This person will have voting rights, as determined by Student Government. The representative will be asked to represent Bulldog Radio by casting votes that would be in the best interest of the membership of the organization, and should report on the operations of the organization to the general assembly. Additionally, this person should report on Student Government general assembly meetings during the Bulldog Radio General Assembly meetings. This person will be elected by the General Assembly by way of recommendation and motion.
ARTICLE III: ADVISORS AND DUTIES
Section A: Academic Advisor
1. Shall be in charge of official University grade checks for members of the
organization at each semester. Appeals and assistance with probationary
students will be handled through this advisor.
2. Shall attend general assembly meetings whenever possible, as well as
additional special meetings as needed.
3. Shall be involved with major Bulldog Radio mobile disc jockey
performances if deemed necessary.
4. Shall meet with the executive board on a regular basis.
5. Shall be the acting agent in charge of all Bulldog Radio codes, accounts
and information that might be important to the organization. This includes
bank accounts, voicemail and automated voice system codes, and any other
information deemed important and necessary for operation yearly.
Section B: Technical Advisor
1. Shall volunteer in assisting with the technical operations of the
station, including voice, data, and cable television broadcast and services.
2. Shall assist in researching and registering for an FCC broadcast license
when licensing windows become available, as well as assist in establishing
an AM or FM station for Bulldog Radio.
ARTICLE IV: SELECTION OF MEMBERS
Section A: General Members
1. All potential general members must meet the specified requirements in the
Bulldog Radio constitution section outlining requirements of general
members.
2. Students may become a general member after their membership paperwork and
training forms have been accepted by the organization and approved by the
President/General Manager, the Vice President/Operations Manager and the
Trainee Manager.
Section B: Executive Board Members
1. The voting process for potential executive board members shall begin with
the selection of a sleight at the last meeting of the month of March,
yearly. This sleight will consist of any number of members interested in any
number of positions. Incumbents will be allowed. Members may only hold one
position per person. General members may nominate a member for one or more
positions, or members may nominate themselves.
2. The voting process shall take place during the first meeting of the month
of April and will be conducted using a secret ballot. The sleight will be
available to all members for view before voting. Candidates will be asked to
speak for two minutes on their experience in the organization and their
reasoning for being interested in the specific executive board member
position. Secret ballots will be collected and counted by the
President/General Manager, who will not vote unless in the event of a tie.
Candidates will be asked to leave the room during the voting process. Voting
will take place from top-level positions to bottom-level positions. An
advisor shall act as the chairperson during the President/General Manager
vote.
3. If there is only one candidate for a position, a vote of confidence shall
be taken by the general assembly. If the candidate is approved by a majority
of the general assembly, they shall be elected to the executive board
membership; otherwise another search for candidates shall be made.
4. Two-thirds of the general assembly must be present to constitute a quorum
for the election and a majority vote of 50 percent plus one must occur for
the motion to pass.
5. The new executive board will be placed in office officially at the final
meeting of the year, which will be determined by the President/General
Manager. At this time the new board shall gain control of their respective
offices.
6. Following election of new executive board members, the former executive
board members shall schedule a training retreat, which will last at least
one day or shall be spread over two days time, in order to sufficiently
orient the new board.
ARTICLE V: REMOVAL OF GENERAL MEMBERS
Section A: Impeachment and Dismissal.
1. Any general member shall have the power to impeach or dismiss members
of the general membership or executive board on the grounds of malfeasance,
misfeasance or nonfeasance in areas that are under the jurisdiction of the
general assembly.
2. The process of impeaching or dismissing a staff member shall be as
follows:
• The grievance(s) against a staff member shall be presented in writing
at a general assembly meeting.
• The vote for removal of the staff member under discussion shall be taken
at the next general assembly meeting, provided that at least one week is
allowed to elapse between the two meetings.
3. A two-thirds majority vote of the general assembly members present shall be necessary to impeach or dismiss a staff member with a quorum of two-thirds total membership.
Section B: Impeachment by Default.
1. Members of general membership shall be impeached by default from the organization upon the third strike they have received as a result of the liability regulations outlined in the constitution.
If you have read this information in full and wish to continue to the FCC Decency Standards form, click here. If you do not wish to continue, click here. REMEMBER: failure to sign the signature form at the end of this section will void your membership.
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