A friend of mine recently called me up and asked me if I would run for the IJA board. Before I decide, I would like some input from others on what the role/effectiveness of an IJA board member should be. Any comments would be welcome, either through this forum (where all can benefit) or private, direct communication (where sensitive feelings can be expressed). Question #1) The IJA has both professional and hobbyist jugglers. Some are historians, some are practitioners. Some see juggling as an outreach activity, some see juggling as a personal journey. Given this diversity, What are the primary goals/functions of our organization? Question #2) One of the most exciting changes to the IJA lately has been the publication of additional financial information. Given this data, how serious is the financial status of our organization? Question #3) Reviewing the financial statements I did not find any huge quick fixes to boost the IJA's financial situation. Nevertheless, there may be many little changes that can add up to increased revenue and/or create cheaper festivals/membership. What changes should a new board member promote to improve our financial situation? Question #4) Conversely, what expenses are critical to making the IJA what it is and/or should be, and should not be tinkered with by a new board member? Question #5) I agree with the prevailing opinion that increasing membership will solve many of our current problems. I have also read many excellent suggestions on this forum to aid in this quest. Which membership ideas should a new board member promote and what problems are they likely to encounter trying to realize them? Question #6) I believe our board to be comprised of sincere, hard working individuals who are doing everything in their power to help the IJA. Given that, I expect that changes/improvements are going to be difficult and/or complex. What problems are currently restricting the effectiveness of our board and what problems/difficulties might hamstring the effectiveness of a new board member? Question #7) Answers are seldom easy. Decisions aren't often unanimous. When controversial topics are being acted on, what measures should a board member use to avoid their own biases and be fair to all sides? Again any and all input would be welcome to these or related questions. Dave