Rev 4 (July 18, 2009)

BYLAWS

FALCON CLUB OF AMERICA

These bylaws supersede any former bylaws.

Please discard any former copies that you may have on file.

ARTICLE 1

Name

The name of this organization is the FALCON CLUB OF AMERICA, which is abbreviated as FCA.

ARTICLE 2

Purpose

The purpose of this non profit organization is to:

2.1       Preserve the Falcon automobile.

2.2       To advance the acceptance of the Falcon automobile.

2.3       To promote good fellowship.

ARTICLE 3

Membership

3.1       Membership in the FCA is open to anyone who is interested in the club.

3.2       Ownership of a Falcon automobile is a not a requirement for membership.

3.3       The Board of Directors can grant honorary lifetime membership using established guidelines.

3.4       Voting rights are granted to dues paying members and their spouses.  Voting may be done by written ballot.

3.5       Charters are issued to chapters to promote interest in the Falcon automobile following these guidelines:

3.5.1     Application is sent to the FCA Chapter Coordinator.

3.5.2     The application states the proposed geographical area encompassed by the chapter.

3.5.3     All members in the chapter must be members in good standing with the FCA.

3.5.4     All chapters must send a complete roster of their membership to the Regional  Directors by January of each year.

3.5.5     Each chapter agrees to release and or “hold harmless” the FCA for any and all claims of any kind incurred by a local chapter.

3.5.6     Each chapter must conform to all local, state and federal laws and other rules and regulations as may be required by the FCA.

ARTICLE 4

Officers – Elections & Management

4.1             Elected officers are President, Vice-President, and Board of Directors with five members.

4.1.1        Terms of office for President and Vice-President are one year.

4.1.2        Terms of office for board members are five years.

4.1.2.1  After five years the member must sit off the board for one year before being nominated for another term.

4.1.3        Election is at the national meet Business meeting by vote of the general membership.

4.1.3.1  Only paid up members of the FCA can vote in the elections.

4.2       Volunteer officers are Newsletter Editor/Advertising Director, Club Store Manager, Chapter Coordinator, Regional Directors, Internet Director, Technical Advisors, Club Photographer, Corresponding Secretary and Three (3) Auditors.  Appointments are made by the Board of Directors

    4.2.1 Terms of office for volunteer officers are agreed to by the volunteer.

4.3       Appointed officers are: Treasurer and Secretary

    4.3.1 Terms of office for appointed officers are one year.

    4.3.2 Appointments are made by the Board of Directors at the national convention.

4.4       Requirements for election to office in the FCA are:

    4.4.1 Minimum age of 21.

    4.4.2 A member in good standing with the FCA.

    4.4.3 All candidates must be present at the National meet.

    4.4.4 All candidates must have attended 3 of the last 5 National meets.

    4.4.5 Commercial vendors (deriving their livelihood, other than hobby) may not hold a National office.

4.5       Duties of Elected and Appointed Officers are:

              4.5.1     President
                 4.5.1.1 Overall management and administration of the FCA through the Board of Directors.
                 4.5.1.2 Improvement of the FCA through increased publicity, activities and status. 
                 4.5.1.3 Coordination of the FCA functions with other clubs as required.
                 4.5.1.4 Promotes FCA social activities.
                 4.5.1.5 Chairs Board of Directors meetings, Officers meetings, and Business meetings.

  4.5.2     Vice President
     4.5.2.1   Is an alternate for the President in the President’s absence.
     4.5.2.2   Assists in implementing FCA policy.
     4.5.2.3   Chairs special committees.
     4.5.2.4   Submits quarterly reports to the President, Board of Directors, and Regional 
                 Directors.

  4.5.3     Secretary
     4.5.3.1   Reports minutes of Business meeting to the general membership by sending a 
                 copy to the Editor for publication in October.
     4.5.3.2   Reports minutes of the Officers’ meeting to Board members and officers.
     4.5.3.3   Corresponds with FCA membership concerning FCA matters.
     4.5.3.4   Maintains FCA files.
        4.5.3.4.1   Notifies chapter executives if members are not on the FCA roster. 
     4.5.3.5   With the help of the Corresponding Secretary, maintains a current club roster and
                 keeps a record of past membership.
     4.5.3.6   Maintains the FCA chapter roster and sends a copy to the Newsletter editor and
                 the Chapter Coordinator for publication every November and April.

  4.5.4     Treasurer
     4.5.4.1   Accounts for FCA finances and dues and reports to the membership.
     4.5.4.2   Disburses approved funds for authorized FCA items.
     4.5.4.3   The Treasurer and one other authorized FCA officer sign all checks.

   4.5.5    Board of Directors
      4.5.5.1   Consists of five directors.
      4.5.5.2   Manage FCA policy and general administration with the assistance of the
                  President.
      4.5.5.3   Present proposed FCA policy changes or revisions to the general membership for
                  consideration. 
      4.5.5.4   Resolve FCA issues brought to the board’s attention by the regional directors.

4.6       Duties of Volunteer Officers

   4.6.1     Regional Directors
      4.6.1.1   Appointed by the Board of Directors.
      4.6.1.2   Assist FCA chapters in holding regional and national meets.
      4.6.1.3   Receive grievances, suggestions and other concerns from their region 
                 membership and report these to the President and Board of Directors.
      4.6.1.4 Notify chapter executives whose members are not on the FCA roster.
      4.6.1.5 Maintain chapter membership rosters for their regions and provide an
                 active/inactive list to the Chapter Coordinator.
      4.6.1.6 Notify the last known contact if the chapter is removed from the “Chapters by
                 Region” list for failure to supply a membership roster.
      4.6.1.7 Assist Chapter Coordinator and facilitate the formation or reactivation of FCA
                 chapters.

   4.6.2      Chapter Coordinator
      4.6.2.1 Supply an application package and act as a FCA board liaison for groups
                 interested in forming new chapters.
      4.6.2.2 Keep Regional Directors informed of new chapter requests and charters granted.  
      4.6.2.3 Receive “Chapters by Region” information from Regional Directors and supply to
                 the Recording Secretary, Newsletter Editor, and Board of Directors.

      4.6.2.4 Forward chapter updates to the Internet Director as received.

   4.6.3      Club Store Manager
      4.6.3.1   Manages the FCA club store.
      4.6.3.2   Attends FCA national conventions and if possible regional meets, with club store
                 stock.
      4.6.3.3   Maintains the club store trailer.

   4.6.4      Newsletter Editor/Advertising Director
      4.6.4.1   Edits and publishes a monthly FCA newsletter. 
         4.6.4.1.1  This includes news articles and advertisements.
      4.6.4.2  Edits and publishes a yearly FCA national convention booklet.
      4.6.4.3  Maintains a complete FCA newsletter file for historical purposes.
      4.6.4.4  Manages the advertising of the FCA in all publications.

   4.6.5      Internet Director
      4.6.5.1  Manages the electronic information for the FCA web site. 
   4.6.6      Technical Advisors
      4.6.6.1 Provide assistance to the general membership as required regarding technical
                 specifications of the Falcon automobile.
      4.6.6.2 Each advisor is dedicated to a particular model year.
      4.6.6.3 All advisors are assisted by a Head Technical Advisor.

   4.6.7     Corresponding Secretary
      4.6.7.1 Maintains a club roster of current and past members.
         4.6.7.1.1  Sends a copy of the roster to the Recording Secretary monthly. 
      4.6.7.2  Processes a chapter application for liability insurance.
         4.6.7.2.1  Sends a copy of the approved insurance application to the Recording
                        Secretary.
      4.6.7.3  Handles inquiries from persons interested in joining the club and mails them the
                  New Members package.

   4.6.8     Auditors 
      4.6.8.1 Audit the books of the Treasurer yearly at the National Convention and report at
                 the annual Business Meeting.
      4.6.8.2 Audit at any time during the year if there is a change in Treasurers.

ARTICLE 5

National Meet

5.1             The FCA schedules at least one “National Meet” meet for the Falcon automobile on the 3^rd weekend in July.

5.2             The following meetings are held at the National Meet.

- Board of Directors

- Officers

- Business

5.3             Parts may be bought, sold, or traded at the National Meet.

5.4             Joint meets with other clubs are scheduled when feasible.

5.5             Public viewing is welcomed at all Falcon meets.

5.6             Vehicle judging is done by registered participants using a people’s choice ballot.

5.6.1            Awards consist of:

Longest Distance Driven

Best Stock Falcon

Best Modified Falcon

Oldest Falcon

Ladies’ Choice - Claude Daniels

Chapter Participation

Individual class winners – suggested but not required

5.6.2     A standard sized and designed award, as set by the Board of Directors for all class winners, is used at the National Convention.  This award is unique to the National Convention and may not be used anywhere else.

5.6.3            Standard FCA National Convention Categories

5.6.3.1 Stock Category

Falcons entered in this category have historically been thoroughly detailed while maintaining a high percentage of authenticity.  Most common and accepted modifications in this category are custom or aftermarket wheels combined with radial performance type tires (rather than bias ply).  The other noted and accepted modifications are "Sprint" or "Cobra" type air cleaners and valve covers.  These two modifications are felt to be acceptable because perhaps the OEM, bias ply tires are not available in the correct sizes and radial tires add a definite safety factor in traction, handling and braking.  The newer sized of radial tires also require a rim width that is wider than the stock Falcon wheel.  This is the reason many owners choose to run the 14X6 Magnums or 14X7 Magnums in combination with a 70 series radial tire.

The Sprint and Cobra engine accessories are recognized as "True" Ford parts and could be purchased "over the counter" from any Ford dealership.  Details really stand out in this category.  The engine compartment is clean enough to eat off in his vehicle, be it a 144/170/200 six or a 260/289/302 eight.  It will be detailed to the max.  No glaring modifications are anywhere on this Falcon.  It just looks a little better than the original, the way it would have if Ford could have "hand built" each one individually.

You may see these Falcons on trailer or driven on a nice day.  Several cars of this quality may even be driven on long trips.  All in all, these Falcons are built for "Show or Go."  At local cars shows across the nation these cars are bringing back the memories of the car that started it all, and bringing home the "gold" to boot.

5.6.3.2 Daily/Street Driven Category

This category is perhaps the most important to the future of the FCA and the value of all Falcons.  As the name implies, this category is for those special Falcons that you see on the street every day!  These Falcons are driven at least three thousand miles per year, rain or shine.  They are not "Parade Cars" or “Museum Pieces."  They take Dad to work and Mom to the grocery store.  They are often the son's or daughter's first car and are depended on to get them to school every day.  Then have felt the pain of parking lots and careless drivers.  They are the cars left outside to make room for Mom's new Taurus; they are also the ones that will start when the new one refused to face the cold of winter.  Definitely not a show car, but for sure a winner!  You won't find a show quality paint job on this Falcon.  Maybe a nice set of wheels like Magnums or even steel wheels and not quite show quality hubcaps.  The engine compartment may or may not be detailed.  In all cased it will be as clean as one can keep it.  Remember this car is used as it was intended.  Several modifications that improve dependability may even be evidenced on this "driver."  Maybe an alternator sits where a generator once resided.  One can easily understand wanting a dependable charging system!  The beauty of the Falcons in this category is not that they are perfect.  They are well-maintained attractive vehicles willing to take their proud owners across town, to work, grocery shopping, or wherever they want to go.

5.6.3.3 Diamond in the Rough

This category is for the Falcon that obviously needs work or is in the process of being restored.  It may or not be drivable.  It may be in primer or still have the old paint job.  The interior may be tattered and torn or partially finished.  The bodywork is not completed.  The engine needs work.  Anyone looking at this Falcon can see it does not fit in any of the other categories but has potential some day.

5.6.3.4 Lite Modified Category

This Category is for that Falcon that retains the stock appearance but has been mildly modified to improve the safety, performance and drivability/handling.  Falcons entered in this Category might have disc brakes with dual master cylinder, rack and pinion steering that has been bolted in place, overdrive transmission (manual or automatic), aftermarket intake and exhaust manifolds, aftermarket wheels and tires, reclining bucket seats with original design upholstery material, aftermarket steering wheel, gages or consoles.  Even a small block Ford stroker engine. These mildly modified Falcons should not have any body modifications such as wheel tubs, louvers or hood scoops.  These mild modifications could be easily reversed returning the Falcon to a stock condition.  The Falcon entered in this Category will probably be very detailed inside and outside.

5.6.3.5 Modified Category

This category is wide open!  You will find Customs, Sleds, Racers, Chopped Tops, Full Frames, Tubs, 4-Wheel Disc Brakes, Monster Tires and a host of other tempting modifications.  Engines may be carbureted, fuel injected small block, or even a blown big block.  In either case, you bet it is well detailed and more than likely "Bad to the Bone."  No engine modification is considered extreme, although all entries must be all Ford powered.  Absolutely no Brand X.  Paint schemes will vary as much as engine choice.  We're talking metallic, pastels, flames, graphics, murals or a super smooth single color over rolled pans, filled seams and a sunken antenna.  Interiors may be a stark as a race car or as plush as a new Continental or Town Car.  In all cases, the interior will be fitted to suit the owner and fully functional for the application.  "Modified" best describes this category.

5.6.3.6 Masters Category

This category is for the "Purist."  The Falcons entered here will really open your eyes and make your mouth water.  These cars are as correct as one can possibly make them, right down to the smallest detail.  Nothing fancy but all exactly like the factory built it. Correct interior, correct paint color, correct engine transmission combination, everything the factory data plate indicates is correct.  It may have just received a ground-up restoration, or it could be a low mileage original.  In all cases, these Falcons are the “Best of the Best."

Keep in mind; although the Categories will remain constant, the guidelines are just that guidelines!  Those that register at a National Convention are free to enter in the Category that they feel best fits their Falcon.

5.6.4          Standard Car Classes for National Conventions

These are MINIMUMS.  The hosting chapter may at its discretion add classes if the situation in their area calls for it. This requires prior approval of the Board of Directors.

                    STOCK                        CATEGORY

                    Class        Body Style         Year                              Class            Body Style              Year

                    A                 Sedan             60-63                                  J               Convertible              64

                    B                 Sedan             64-65                                  K              Convertible              65

                    C                 Sedan             66-70 1/2                            L            Station Wagon           60-65

                    D             Sport Coupe        66-69                                 M            Station Wagon           66-70

                    E                Hardtop            63                                      N               Ranchero                60-63

                    F                Hardtop            64                                      P               Ranchero                64-66

G                Hardtop            65                                      Q           Sedan Del/Van            61-67

                    H              Convertible         63

                    DAILY/STREET DRIVEN CATEGORY                        MODIFIED CATEGORY

                    Class        Body Style         Year                              Class          Body Style            Year

                    R                 Sedan            60-70 1/2                            V                   Sedan                  60-70 1/2

                    S                 Hardtop          63-65                                 W                  Hardtop                 63-65

                    T               Convertible        63-65                                 X                 Convertible              63-65

                    U                 Utilities          60-67                                  Y                   Utilities                 60-67

                    Z                Pro/Comp        60-70 1/2

DIAMOND IN THE ROUGH CATEGORY                  MASTERS CATEGORY***

                Class        Body Style        Year                              Class               Body Style             Year

BB               Sedan            60-70 ½                             AA                     All                     60-701/2

CC              Hardtop           63-65

DD           Convertible          63-65
EE             Utilities             60-67

***Masters Class is a Non-Voting Class.  All pre-registered entries receive an appreciation award.  All previous FCA National Winners (Stock Class) or any National Winners from other car clubs such as AACA are strongly urged to enter this class.

5.7             No public consumption of alcoholic beverages is permitted.

5.8             The chapter hosting the National Meet must secure proper liability insurance in the name of the Falcon Club of America.

5.8.1        Written submission for insurance is sent by the host chapter to the FCA Corresponding Secretary.

5.9       The Chapter Participation award shall be presented based on the following standards:

5.9.1     The Hosting Chapter or Chapters shall not be eligible for the Chapter Participation award.

5.9.2     Members who belong to multiple FCA Chapters shall only be counted in their home Chapter.

5.9.3     The count for this award shall be based on the number of registrations per Chapter.  To be counted, the registration packet must be picked up and the member must be in attendance at the National Convention.

5.9.4     Members may submit and pay for separate registration forms for each car and/or family member.

ARTICLE 6

Finance

6.1             The FCA is a non-profit organization.

6.2       Dues in support of club administration costs and newsletter publication are collected from each member in the amount established by the Board of Directors.

6.2.1        Dues for the second and subsequent years are payable on the anniversary of the original membership.

6.2.2        Dues are delinquent after 90 days.

6.2.3        Delinquent members are not eligible for active participation in club events and are dropped from the roster.

6.3            Additional resources from contributions, raffles, etc., are accepted by the Treasurer and deposited in the normal account.

6.4            Disbursements of the FCA funds are by the club Treasurer after approval by the Board of Directors.

6.5             An audit is done annually of the Treasurer’s reports and accounts.

6.5.1        A copy of the audit is furnished to the Editor of the newsletter for publication in October.

ARTICLE 7

Publication

7.1             The editor publishes a monthly newsletter containing such items as:

-        meeting reports

-        information regarding coming events

-        classified advertisements

-        technical articles

-        pictures of chapter functions, members’ cars and shows

-        articles of interest to all members

7.2             The general membership may submit copy to the newsletter at no cost.

7.3             Commercial vendors are charged a fee to advertise in the newsletter.

ARTICLE 8

Amendments

8.1             Proposed amendments to these bylaws are reviewed by the Board of Directors.

8.2             Approval of any amendment is by a two- third majority vote of the general membership at the Annual Business Meeting.

ARTICLE 9

Dissolution

9.1             In the event of dissolution, disbandment, inactivation, or any other termination, all FCA funds, property, parts or other assets in excess of any recognized liability will be disposed of in accordance with the rules governing non-profit organizations.

9.2             A majority vote of members present at the last general meeting is sufficient to determine action.

Revisions