Here in Pennsylvania, we have a number of uncertified LC's.  Many have been
in practice
for years, but haven't gotten the 8000 hours without a degree, or just can't
afford to sit the
exam.  Some of us are ILCA members.  Should we really be disenfranchised?  I
intend to
sit the exam as soon as I can get the 2500 hours I need (only 1994 more if I
can find an
LC willing to work with me so I can take the BSC track 2 course), but I
realistically can't
expect to be certified for several years.  I'm very hurt at the prospect of
losing my vote
for the duration of that interval.

I have seen other organizations in which the staff became independent of the
elected
officers (i.e., the tail wagged the dog!).  Is it posible that this is an
issue here?

Whatever the problem, I am greatly distressed by the changes I perceive in the
organization.  I have only received a few issues of JHL, but already I can't
imagine it
without Kathleen.  (I have no idea why she left.)  Suddenly, what had
impressed me as
a sensitive, caring organization seems to be becoming POLITICAL!  YUK!
(Yes, I know all organizations are political, but this seems to be pervasive.)

I am worried that issues like these may split ILCA into opposing camps, and
possibly
into opposing organizations.  I think we should refuse any change to the
1994 By-Laws
at this time, and consider who we are, and who we want to be, before we
tamper too
much with our structure.

Jonathan
          L. Jonathan Kramer, P.E.
      Graduate Breastfeeding Counselor
        Student Lactation Consultant
    Certified Medela Nursing Bra Fitter
Only G-d knows the formula for mother's milk