As you likely know, The Suffield Observer (and its online counterpart) which is printed and distributed to everyone in town ten times a year, is produced almost entirely by local volunteers. The paper has a somewhat unique mission, specifically “to build a sense of community throughout the town of Suffield and to provide a forum where all sides of issues can be addressed.” All its operations and volunteers are overseen by a Board of Directors (also volunteers), drawn from our community. Under its bylaws, Directors may only serve two consecutive three-year terms, a rule that promotes a continuing input of potentially fresh ideas and viewpoints. As a result, the Board will have new Directors installed before our next meeting in the fall.
The Directors provide oversight for the organization, reviewing both the important and mundane (e.g., capital expenditures for a new computer or printer, or third-party contracts) as well as having overall responsibility for policy changes, bylaws revisions, and selecting its officers (including the chairman). In addition, hopefully, cumulatively it provides a perspective representative of our entire community. Notwithstanding its importance, being a Director does not entail a significant time commitment, with regular meetings three times a year and periodic electronic votes on time sensitive matters.
If you have an interest in being considered for a Director position, or simply have a question, either send an email to inbox@thesuffieldobserver.com or telephone 860-668-7442 (leaving a message if necessary) and someone will get back to you. Thank you.