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ONTARIO B.A.S.S. FEDERATION NATION

B Y L A W S

Table of Contents

ARTICLE IINTRODUCTION

Page

Section 1

Purpose and Powers

Section 2.

Colours

ARTICLE IILOCATION OF FEDERATION NATION

Section 1.

Geographical

Section 2.

Principle Office

ARTICLE IIIMEMBERSHIP

Section 1.

Definition of Membership

Section 2.

Categories of Membership

Section 3.

Affiliation

Section 4.

Continuation

Section 5.

Dues and Assessments

Section 6.

Withdrawal from Membership

Section 7.

Forfeiture of Membership

Section 8.

Reinstatement of Membership

Section 9.

Rights and Privileges

Section 10.

Non-discrimination

ARTICLE IVBOARD OF DIRECTORS

Section 1.

General

Section 2.

Chapter Representation

Section 3.

Removal From Office

Section 4.

Meetings

Section 5.

Special Meetings

Section 6.

Action Without Meeting

Section 7.

Committees

Section 8.

Districts

Section 9.

Voting

Section 10.

Compensation

Section 11.

Books & Accounting Records

Section 12.

Exceptions to Authority

Section 13.

Quorum

ARTICLE VOFFICERS

Section 1.

General

Section 2.

Term of Office

Section 3.

Eligibility for Office

Section 4.

Removal from Office

ARTICLE VIRESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES OF OFFICERS

Section 1.

President

Section 2.

1ST & 2nd Vice Presidents

Section 3.

Secretary and Treasurer

Section 4.

Steering Committee

ARTICLE VIIELECTIONS

Section 1.

Directors

Section 2.

Officers

Section 3.

Executive Committee

ARTICLE VIIICOMMITTEES

Section 1.

Standing Committees

Section 2.

Special Committees

ARTICLE IXCONDUCT OF MEETINGS

Section 1.

Rules of Order

Section 2.

Parliamentary Procedures

ARTICLE XAUTHORITY OF REPRESENTATION

Section 1.

President's Conferences

Section 2.

Divisional and National

Tournaments

ARTICLE XIFEDERATION NATION TOURNAMENTS

Section 1.

Location and Dates

Section 2.

Tournament Eligibility

Section 3.

Rules and Regulations

ARTICLE XIIMISCELLANEOUS

Section 1.

Contracts on Behalf of

Federation Nation

Section 2.

Fiscal Year

Section 3.

Audits

Section 4.

Conflict of Interest

Section 5.

Sources of Federation

Nation Income

Section 6.

Dissolution

ARTICLE XIIIAMENDMENTS

Section 1.

Bylaws

ARTICLE XIVSTANDING RULES

Rule 1.

Amendment to Standing

Rules

Rule 2.

Dissemination of Federation

Nation Roster

Rule 3.

Federation Nation

Team Expenses

Rule 4.

Interpretation of Bylaws

And Standing Rules

ONTARIO B.A.S.S. FEDERATION NATION

A P P E N D I C E S

Table of Contents

APPENDIX IRULES OF ORDER TO FEDERATION BYLAWS

General

Call to Order

Order of Business

Ontario Minister of Natural Resources

Assumption of Office

Presentation of Awards; Presentation and

Swearing in of New Officials

Amendments to Rules of Order

APPENDIX IITOURNAMENT RULES COMMITTEE

Federation Nation Tournament

Basic Format

Tournament Entry

Hank Gibson Provincial Tournament

B.A.S.S. Club World Championship

APPENDIX IIITOURNAMENT RULES COMMITTEE

Spending and Account Balances

Expenses

Financial Reporting

ONTARIO B.A.S.S. FEDERATION NATION

B Y L A W S

ARTICLE I: Introduction

Section 1. Purpose and Powers

The Ontario B.A.S.S. Federation, also known as the Ontario B.A.S.S. Federation Nation, and hereinafter referred to as the Federation, consisting of affiliated B.A.S.S. Chapters, of the Bass Anglers Sportsman Society Federation, also known as the Bass Anglers Sportsman Society Federation Nation, shall have the purposes and powers as may be stated in its bylaws, and such powers as are now or may be granted by law. Additional purposes and objectives are:

(1)

To serve as an organization in which the individual B.A.S.S. Chapters in the Province of Ontario and other provinces (until they can form there own

Federations) and affiliated with Bass Anglers Sportsman Society (B.A.S.S.) may unite to the benefit of their common interests and causes;

(2)

To promote and support approved conservation policies, practices and measures, preservation of aquatic resources and improvement of ecological and environmental conditions on regional, provincial and local levels;

(3)

To promote the practice of high standards of sportsmanship and conservation measures by the membership;

(4)

To provide the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources organized moral, political and material support and encouragement;

(5)

To preserve and promote the sport of bass angling by promoting the improvement of bass angling skills in the membership through fellowship and the friendly exchange of techniques and ideas and active involvement in conservation and political issues;

(6)

To encourage youth fishing, promote the conduct of youth fishing activities by the Federation's Chapters and, within budgetary allocations, provide funding and material assistance in the implementation of approved youth activities;

(7)

To promote, organize and conduct an annual Ontario B.A.S.S. Federation (Nation) Tournament to determine the members of a Team to represent the Province of Ontario at any Divisional or National B.A.S.S. sponsored Chapter Federation Tournaments, and to hold any other Tournaments deemed necessary by the Federation for the purposes of selection, fundraising or any other reason the Board of Directors deems necessary;

(8)

To provide, within budgetary limitations, funding for the Federation Team's participation in B.A.S.S. sponsored Divisional and National Tournaments as may be required; and

(9)

To promote, assist and facilitate the formation of additional bass clubs to become affiliated with B.A.S.S. and the Federation.

Section 2. Colours

The Ontario B.A.S.S. Federation base colours are RED and White, and are subject to Board Approval for usage.

ARTICLE II: Location of Federation

Section 1. Geographical

The Federation shall consist of those qualified B.A.S.S. Nation Chapters, hereinafter referred to as Chapters, located within the Province of Ontario, and other provinces (until the other Provinces can form their own Federations).

Section 2. Principle Office

The principal office and business address of this organization shall be the same as that of the Federation's President.

ARTICLE III: Membership

Section 1. Definition of Membership

The members of this Federation are those persons and organizations having membership rights in accordance with the provisions of these bylaws.

Section 2. Categories of Membership

This Federation shall have two categories of membership:

(1)

Individual - Persons who are members in good standing of B.A.S.S. and who are also members in good standing of bass chapter affiliates of this Federation; and

(2)

Organizational - Chapters in the Province of Ontario and other provinces (until they can form their own Federations), affiliated with both B.A.S.S. and this Federation.

Section 3. Affiliation

Membership in this Federation shall be acquired by Chapters that meet the following prerequisites:

(1)

100% of the Chapter's individual membership shall be members in good standing with B.A.S.S.;

(2)

Individual membership in the Chapter shall consist of six (6) or more members;

(3)

The Chapter’s office of record shall be in specified in Article III, ss. 2(2);

(4)

The Chapter shall be affiliated with B.A.S.S.; and

(5)

Upon application for affiliation, the Chapter provides the Federation with a current membership roster, including names and addresses, and the name, address and phone number of the Chapter’s designee for Board of Directors.

Section 4. Continuation

Chapter affiliation shall be on a continuing basis provided:

(1)

Each Chapter maintains current its affiliation with B.A.S.S.;

(2)

Each Chapter maintains current it’s dues, assessments and fines to the Federation;

(3)

Each Chapter maintains it’s individual membership at six (6) or more;

(4)

Each Chapter maintains current the names and addresses of it’s members and it’s Officers with the Federation.

(5)

Each Chapter submits the results and plans for a Youth or Community Service Project and a Conservation Project. This submittal is to be in a prescribed format, submitted annually to the Federation Secretary, at the Annual General Meeting. This submittal shall be called an Affiliation Letter; and

(6)

Each Chapter maintains a fiscal year ending in October at which time Chapter elections are held and dues collected including the $15 US to be remitted to BASS by December. The new Chapter Representative to the Federation Board of Directors will attend the Annual General Meeting in November.

Section 5. Dues and Assessments

(1)

The decision to implement Federation dues or a chapter assessment, and their amount, shall be that of the Board of Directors.

(2)

Written notice of intent to implement dues or an assessment, and their amount, must be given to all member Chapters at least (30) days in advance of the scheduled Federation meeting in which the vote is to be taken.

(3)

A decision to implement must be confirmed by a 2/3 majority vote of the Board of Directors present, or represented, at the meeting where the decision is to be made.

(4)

Dues or Chapter assessments shall be due and payable to the Federation Treasurer by, and no later than, the regularly scheduled Annual General Meeting.

(5)

Dues for members joining after the regularly scheduled Annual General Meeting shall not be pro-rated and are payable to the Federation /Treasurer within thirty (30) days.

(6)

A Chapter assessment has been implemented and the amount has been determined to be at the rate of ten dollars ($10) per year, per Chapter member, as at the B.A.S.S. roster on August 31st of each year. This amount may, or may not, be passed on to the Chapter membership for resolution. The assessment should not be confused with Chapter member Federation dues. The Federation assessment is an annual levy payable by the Chapter, to the Federation, to assist with the Federation’s operating expenses.

Section 6. Withdrawal from Membership

Any B.A.S.S. Nation Chapter may withdraw from membership, after fulfilling all of its obligations to the Federation, by giving notice, preferably in writing, to the Federation Secretary, and at least one (1) other Federation Executive Member.

Section 7. Forfeiture of Membership

(1)

Any Chapter in violation of Article III, Section 4, may be dropped from membership.

(2)

Any Chapter may be removed from membership, for reasons stated above, and for cause, by a 2/3 majority vote, with a quorum present, of the Board of Directors, hereinafter referred to as the Board, and after opportunity to be heard, whenever the Board, in it’s judgment, considers such action to be in the best interests of the Federation.

(3)

Individual membership in the Federation is forfeited concurrent with the cessation of the individual's Chapter membership in the Federation.

(4)

Individuals may be denied participation in Federation sponsored activities by a 2/3 majority vote, with quorum present, of the Board of Directors for cause, and after opportunity to be heard, whenever the Board, in it’s judgment, considers such action to be in the best interests of the Federation. For flagrant reasons, the Board may recommend removal of the individual from Chapter membership. Affirmation action shall remove the individual from membership in the Federation.

Section 8. Reinstatement of Membership

(1)

Membership in this Federation that was terminated by withdrawal action may be reinstated by showing compliance with the prerequisites set forth in Section 3 of this Article III, by adhering to representation requirements outlined in Article IV and by making current any and all dues, assessments and fines.

(2)

Membership that was terminated under Section 7, this Article III, may be reinstated by showing compliance with Section 3, this Article III, and by a 2/3 majority vote, with a quorum present, of the Board.

Section 9. Rights and Privileges

(1)

The Chapters and their membership comprise the Federation. As members of this Federation, each member is entitled to all rights and privileges, and subject to all obligations to which membership in the Bass Anglers Sportsman Society/National B.A.S.S. Nation Federation implies.

(2)

Without limiting such rights and obligations, individual rights and obligations shall include:

(a) eligibility to seek, if otherwise qualified, any office in this Federation;

(b) the right to participate in Federation sponsored activities for which they are eligible; and

provided the individual maintains

(d) current their membership in an affiliated Chapter of this Federation:

(e) active participation in Federation activities; and

(f) a conduct reflecting a favourable image on the Chapter and Federation, within the community.

(3)

Each Chapter shall have representation on the Board, with

(a) the right to vote, through their Board's Representative, on all matters pertaining to the operation of the Federation;

(b) the right to participate in Federation sponsored activities for which they are eligible; and

provided the Chapter maintains

(d) affiliation with this Federation;

(e) active participation and support of Federation projects & activities;

(f) and a level of conduct and sportsmanship among its members that imparts a favourable image on the Chapter and Federation, within the community.

Section 10. Non-discrimination

There shall be no discrimination in membership or participation in the activities of the Federation by reason of race, ancestry, place of origin, colour, ethnic origin, citizenship, creed, sex, sexual orientation, age, marital status, family status, or disability.

ARTICLE IV : Board of Directors

Section 1. General

The business management and affairs of the Federation shall be under the direction and control of the Board of Directors, who shall have the authority to authorize contracts, incur liabilities, expend funds, approve sale and exchange of organizational property, and attend to such other matters connected with the conduct of the Federation, as, from time to time, it may determine. The Officers of the Federation and elected Representatives of the affiliated Chapters shall constitute the Board of Directors.

Section 2. Chapter Representation

Each Chapter of this Federation, which is in good standing with, and maintains active its affiliate status with this Federation, shall have a member who shall serve as a Director on the Federation's Board of Directors. Such director shall:

(1)

Be an elected Official of the Chapter he or she represents, or be elected by the Chapter membership specifically for the Director position;

(2)

Represent the membership of their Chapter and convey the business of that membership to the Board, and in turn, relay the business of the Board to their Chapter members;

(3)

Hold office for one (1) year and thereafter until their respective successors shall be elected and shall qualify;

(4)

Chapter elections are to be conducted in October in order that new representative will attend the Annual General Meeting to form the new Board of Directors.

(5)

Chapters may also elect Alternate Directors who meet the requirements of Director. The Chapter's Alternate Director may represent the Chapter at Board meetings in the absence of the Director.

(a) Alternate Directors may be appointed to fill unexpired terms of Office of Chapter Directors, should the Director’s position be vacated for any reason.

(4)

Chapter representation shall include the requirement that Chapters shall maintain current the name and address of their Director, and Alternate Director, with the Federation. Should a change in the Director occur, the change shall be reported to the Federation President and Secretary prior to the next scheduled Board meeting.

Section 3. Removal From Office

The Board of Directors shall have the right at any time to remove any Director from office, for cause, by a majority vote, with a quorum present, of the Board, and after opportunity to be heard, whenever, in its judgement, the Board considers such action to be in the best interests of the Federation. Cause shall be construed to include failure to attend regularly scheduled meetings.

Section 4. Meetings

Four (4) regular meetings of the Board shall be held during the fiscal year (FY) on such dates, at such a place and at such a starting time as shall be coordinated and determined by the President. Additional and/or special meetings will be held at the discretion of the President, or as referred to in Article IV, Section 5. The locations, dates, and starting times for the regular meetings of the succeeding Fiscal Year shall be announced by the President during the last meeting for the current Fiscal Year.

Section 5. Special Meetings

Special meetings of the Board may be called at any time by the President, by a majority of the Officers, or by a majority of the Board. Determining a majority of the Board of Directors shall be accomplished by a telephone or electronic media survey conducted by any member of the Board or Executive. Notice of any special meeting of the Board of Directors shall be given in writing, personally, electronic media, or by mail, to each Director and Officer not less than ten (10) days before such meeting. The notice shall state the time, place and the purpose(s) for which the meeting is being called. If notice of a special meeting is mailed, it shall be deemed to have been given ten (10) days after post-marked by Canada Post, and is addressed to the Director at his or her last known post office address.

Section 6. Action Without Meeting

Any action which may be taken at a Board meeting may be taken without a meeting, provided a consent, in writing, setting forth the actions to be taken, shall be signed by a majority of the Directors entitled to vote with respect to the subject matter thereof. If urgency of action does not allow for written consent, consent may be obtained by a telephone or electronic media poll conducted by a member of the Executive. Such consent, either written or verbal, shall have the same force and effect as a vote of the Board of Directors, and may be stated as such in any writing or document.

Section 7. Committees

The Board of Directors may, by resolution(s), passed by a majority of the

Directors, with a quorum , designate one or more Committees, with each Committee to consist of two or more of the Directors, and any number of individual members of the Federation. The designation of such Committee and the delegation of authority shall not operate to relieve the Board of Directors, or any member thereof, of any responsibility imposed upon the Board, or member, by law or these bylaws. Each committee shall keep regular minutes of its meetings and report to the Board of Directors as required or necessary.

Section 8. Districts

The Federation will determine the division of districts or Regions for the Federation, as it finds necessary. This decision will be based on geographical and numerical considerations.

Section 9. Voting

At all meetings of the Board of Directors, each Executive Committee Officer and Director shall have one vote. Proxy votes will be accepted, except for the Election of Officers.

Section 10. Compensation

Directors shall not receive compensation from Federation funds for their service as Directors. However, Directors may be reimbursed for authorized expenses incurred on behalf of the Federation. The expenses are to be evidenced by receipt or other proper document.

Section 11. Books and Accounting Records

As a continuing action, the Board of Directors shall monitor the procedures for maintaining the Corporate and accounting records of the Federation to ensure:

(1)

The Federation keeps correct and complete books and records of account;

(2)

All Federation funds are properly safeguarded, and all receipts of monies and expenditures are properly recorded according to acceptable accounting procedures;

(3)

A record of the proceedings of its members, Board of Directors and Committees are kept;

(4)

A record of the names and addresses of its affiliate Chapters, and members on the Board of Directors are maintained at the principal office of the Federation; and

(5)

The Federation's financial books and accounts are audited annually by a Committee appointed by the President, or more often at the Board's discretion.

Section 12. Exceptions to Authority The board of Directors may not:

(1)

Make a rule or regulation, not already delegated to the Federation by these Bylaws, that shall impinge upon the autonomy and authority of the Chapters as separate entities; and

(2)

Amend or repeal portions of these Bylaws that were imposed by vote of the individual membership, inclusive of the following, which shall be determined by individual vote:

(a) Withdrawal of the Federation from the Bass Anglers Sportsman Society, and

(b) Imposition of a membership fee on the individual members;

(3)

Dissolution of the Federation.

Section 13. Quorum

(1)

A quorum for transaction of business at all meetings of the Board of Directors shall be 2/5 of the total number of the Board of Directors for the current year.

ARTICLE V: Officers

Section 1. General

(1)

The Officers of the Federation shall be elected by the Board of Directors. They shall constitute the Executive Committee.

(2)

An act or authorization of an act by the Executive Committee, within the authority delegated, shall be as effective for all purposes as the act or authorization of the Directors; however, the designation of the Committee and this delegation thereto of authority shall not operate to relieve the Board of Directors, or any member thereof, of any responsibility imposed upon it, him or her, by law.

(3)

The Executive Committee shall meet prior to each regularly scheduled or special meeting of the Board to prepare an agenda for the Board meeting and to consider and shape old and new business for presentation to the Board.

Section 2. Term of Office

The term of office for the Federation Officers shall be for a period of two (2) years. Officers shall take office during the first meeting of the fiscal year, or, at the first meeting following the meeting in which they were elected. They shall serve from that date.

Section 3. Eligibility for Office

Officers shall be members in good standing of the Bass Anglers Sportsman Society and of an affiliate Chapter of this Federation.

Section 4. Removal from Office

Any Officer may be removed from Office, for cause, by 2/3 majority vote, with a quorum, of the Board of Directors, and after opportunity to be heard, whenever, in the Board’s judgement, the Board considers such action to be in the best interest of the Federation. An Officer's absence, without justifiable reasons, from three (3) consecutive meetings of the Executive shall be cause for removal.

ARTICLE VI: Responsibilities and Duties of Officers

Section 1. President

The President shall be the Chief Executive Officer of the Federation, and shall:

(1)

preside and maintain order over all meetings of the Executive Committee, Steering Committee, and the Board of Directors of this Federation;

(2)

schedule regular and special meetings of the Board of Directors, Steering Committee and Executive Committee; notifying all Directors and Officers of the applicable meeting date, time and place;

(3)

appoint persons to occupy positions to fulfill the need of a Steering Committee;

(4)

appoint Standing and Special committees of this Federation as appropriate, and cooperate with each Chair thereof to assure proper functioning and reporting of each Committee;

(5)

ensure that regular elections are duly called, noticed, and held;

(6)

direct all official business for the Federation;

(7)

be the official representative of the Ontario B.A.S.S. Federation Nation;

(8)

assure adequate supervision of all Federation sponsored activities;

(9)

be an ex-officio, non-voting member of all standing and special committees;

(10) liaise with Bass Anglers Sportsman Society, endorsed sponsors, and promoters;

(11) initiate disciplinary action in respect to violations of standing regulations and procedures by Federation members;

(12)

acquire a working knowledge of Parliamentary law and procedures, and a thorough understanding of the Bylaws of this Federation;

(13)

follow all financial guidelines and obligations as outlined in Appendix III;

(14)

maintain a liaison with the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources; and

(15)

work closely with the President-Elect to ensure a smooth transition.

Section 2. First Vice President and Second Vice President

Each Position is elected separately. If the President is unable to perform the duties of his or her Office for any reason, the First Vice President or, if so required, Second Vice President, shall occupy the President’s position and perform the President’s duties with the same authority as the President.

(1)

The First Vice President shall:

(a) assist the President as directed;

(b) oversee the functioning of such Committees of this organization as the President shall direct; and

(2)

The Second Vice President shall:

(a) assist the President as directed;

(b) oversee the functioning of such Committees of this organization as the President shall direct; and

(c) assume the Office of First Vice President, or the President (should the First Vice President not be available), for the balance of term should the Office be vacated.

Section 3. Secretary and Treasurer

They shall act as the liaison between the Federation and the B.A.S.S. Chapter Department of the Bass Anglers Sportsman Society. They shall have the care and custody of and shall be responsible for all the funds, securities, evidence of indebtedness, Corporate Records, and other documents of record, for the Federation, and deposit all such funds in the name of the Federation in such financial institutions, depositories, or in such safe deposit vaults as the Board of Directors may designate, with appropriate co-signers required for any, and all, cheque issuance.

(1)

The Secretary shall:

(a) keep a record of the proceedings (Minutes) of all meetings of the Board of Directors and Executive Committee;

(b) maintain current a roster, inclusive of mailing address, telephone number, and Chapter of the Board of Directors, disseminating updated copies to Federation Nation Executive and Board of Directors members;

(c) notify the appropriate persons for Board, Steering Committee, or Excutive Committee meetings, as the case may be, in a timely manner;

(d) issue minutes of Board of Director, Executive Committee and Steering Committee meetings to the appropriate Committee member in a timely manner;

(e) have custody and maintain general records of this Federation, in accordance with the laws of the Province of Ontario, including, but not limited to, minutes of Board of Directors, Steering Committee and Executive Committee meetings; committee appointments and reports, a list of all Chapters, Chapter mailing addresses, annual Chapter affiliation letters and complete contact information of all Chapter Officers and rosters;

(f) co-ordinate the preparation and submission by members of all Committee of such reports as are required by the Federation, B.A.S.S. and other agencies;

(g) conduct correspondence for the Federation as directed

(h) maintain a current jacket file of the OBFN Chapter affiliates with the Federation, past and present, and such files should include, at a minimum, a copy of the current Chapter membership roster, chapter's B.A.S.S. number and status; and

(i) be available to confirm both individual and Chapter eligibility for all Federation Nation Tournaments, as conducted by the Federation to the Tournament Director, individual appointed to act as such, and the President in a timely manner.

(2)

The Treasurer shall:

(a) shall prepare, in the name of the Federation, all cheques, notes, drafts, bills of exchange, acceptances and other instruments for the payment of money, in accordance with the procedures established by the Board of Directors, under the direction of the President, Executive Committee, Steering Committee, or Board of Directors;

(b) follow all financial guidelines and obligations as set out in Appendix III;

(c) keep full and accurate books of account of all Federation business and shall exhibit the same to any Director of the Federation upon written application to the Executive Committee or Board of Directors;

(d) pay statements from Officers and Committee Members in accordance with Appendix III;

(e) issue statements or invoices, and collect financial obligations owed to the Federation;

(f) become bonded by the Federation, at the cost of the Federation, for the faithful discharge of duties if so required by the Board of Directors;

(g) upon termination of office, provide all records to the Executive Committee for inventory, and receive a receipt for same;

(h) upon taking office, assume the record retention of all past financial records in accordance with the laws of the Province of Ontario, providing a receipt to the Executive Committee for possession after completing an inventory; and

(i) perform all duties incident to their office.

Section 4. Steering Committee

The Steering Committee shall consist of the Executive Committee and the Chairs of all Standing Committees so named by the President. They shall:

(1)

serve as liaison between the Federation Standing Committees and the Chapters; and

(2)

meet concurrently with the Executive Committee, upon request of the President.

ARTICLE VII: Elections

Section 1. Directors

The Federation Nation Board of Directors is made up of Representatives from the Chapters. Such Representatives, usually but not necessarily, the Chapter President, with the Executive Committee shall form the Federation Nation Board of Directors. They shall meet quarterly to hear and provide applicable direction to the Executive and Steering Committees, assisting and conducting the business of the Federation, meet annually to meet the needs of the Federation at an Annual General Meeting, to meet biennially to conduct elections of the Federation Executive Committee and to meet where required when Federation business requires the involvement of the full Board.

Section 2. Officers

Officers of the Federation shall be elected by the Board of Directors in accordance with the procedures as prescribed herein. They shall have such terms of office and eligibility requirements as provided under Article V, and shall constitute the Executive Committee.

Section 3. Executive Committee

The purpose of the Executive Committee is to communicate,

coordinate, focus, and facilitate the directives of the Board of Directors. They shall meet monthly, alone or in conjunction with the Steering Committee. They shall ensure that all Minutes of Executive, Steering Committee and Board meetings shall be available to all Chapters.

(1)

Nominations to the Executive Committee shall be conducted in accordance with Appendix 1 and Robert’s Rules of Order, and these By-laws.

(2) Regular elections to fill the positions of President, 1st Vice President, 2nd Vice President, Treasurer, and Secretary shall be conducted during the last regularly scheduled meeting of the fiscal year. The election shall be by members of the Board of Directors, with a quorum present, and a plurality vote shall be necessary to elect. Voting for each officer shall be by a written (secret) ballot.

(3) Should vacancies occur among Officer positions, such vacancies may be filled at a regular or special meeting of the Board of Directors, and any Officer so elected shall hold office until the end of the normal term.

ARTICLE VIII: Committees

Section 1. Standing Committees

A Standing Committee shall be composed of Chapter members and/or members of the Board of Directors, and shall have a term of two (2) years. Each Chair shall present a copy of their Report to the Secretary prior to the end of the meeting the Report was given, to ensure accuracy of the Minutes. The President of the Federation shall appoint the following standing committees:

(1) Youth Activities Committee:

(a) This Committee shall review youth activities programs and projects related to indoctrination of our youth in the sport of fishing, sportsmanship, aquatic resources, boat and water safety and conservation practices as may be implemented by Federation organizations;

(b) This Committee shall recommend improvements thereof; review and determine suitability of similar projects proposed for Federation sponsorship, and assist in the planning and implementation of such projects;

(c) This Committee need not necessarily be one Committee. It may be split between the two programs that regularly fall under this mandate

i. CastingKids,

ii. The OBFN Junior Team Ontario; and

(d) The President shall name of the Chair of this Committee, or in the case where the Committee has been split in two, the President shall name two individual Chairs.

(2)

Conservation

(a) This Committee shall maintain current information on all matters, including legislation, related to and that could affect the preservation of aquatic resources and the natural environment; ensuring the President and membership’s awareness of such matters. They will review proposed environmental and conservation projects to determine suitability for Federation sponsorship; coordinate and supervise the implementation of Federation sponsored environmental and conservation related projects; bring information and educational programs to the members and public that will foster a greater awareness of threats to our environment, and maintain liaison with the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources as needed; and

(b) The President shall name the Chair of this Committee.

(3)

Tournament Committee

(a)

This Committee shall plan, organize and operate all Tournaments conducted by the Federation. The Tournaments shall consist of

An annual qualifying Tournament, known as the Hank Gibson Provincial Tournament, and is subject to any sponsorship title determined by the Executive Committee, to determine those eligible to represent Ontario in the B.A.S.S. sponsored Divisional Tournament. Those who are determined to be eligible will be known as Team Ontario

ii.

Any other Tournament conducted by this Federation;

(b)

This Committee shall have one Chair, appointed by the President, and this Chair shall be known as the Tournament Director; and

(c)

This Committee may

Assist the Board of Directors with the selection of any Tournament site and dates,

ii.

Ensure that all Tournaments will be conducted within the spirit and letter of current Federation Tournament Rules, current or as amended and approved by the Board of Directors and called the Official Rules of the Ontario B.A.S.S. Federation Nation Tournaments, and

iii.

Ensure the coordination of registration and launch, take-off, check-in and scoring sites; supervision, operation and all matters properly related to the orderly conduct of any Federation conducted Tournament.

Section 2. Special Committees

Special committees may be appointed by the President, subject to concurrence in their composition and purpose by the Board of Directors, for closely defined purposes. In no case should tenure of a special committee exceed two (2) years from the date of appointment. Special committees may not supercede or otherwise infringe upon the duties and responsibilities of standing committees. Each Committee Chair shall provide the Secretary with a copy of their Report prior to the end of the meeting the Report has been given, to ensure accuracy of the Minutes.

ARTICLE IX: Conduct of Meetings

Section 1. Rules of Order

The rules of order, inclusive of Order of Business adopted for meetings conducted by this Federation, is appended to these bylaws as Appendix 1, OBFN Rules of Order.

Section 2. Parliamentary Procedures

Except as otherwise specifically provided in this Federation's Bylaws, all questions of order or procedure with respect to any meeting in action of this organization, its Board of Directors, Executive Committee, Steering Committee or any committee appointed hereunder shall be determined in accordance with "Robert's Rules of Order (as revised)".

ARTICLE X: Authority of Representation

Section 1. President's Conferences

Inasmuch as this Federation and its affiliate Chapters are an affiliate part of the National Bass Anglers Sportsman Society and it shall be necessary from time to time to have representation at the national office, or elsewhere, to obtain information and new policies and procedures and to add the Federation's voice and vote in national B.A.S.S. matters, this Federation shall have the power to pay the necessary expenses of its representative(s) to each of the two annual B.A.S.S. President's Conferences and to such other conferences or meetings as are deemed necessary by the Board of Directors.

Section 2. Divisional and National Tournaments

Chapter and Federation Tournament competitions may be directed towards the selection of members for the Federation, which may represent the Federation and its members in B.A.S.S. sponsored Federation Tournaments. In recognition of the importance of these Tournaments to the Federation membership, this Federation shall have the power to pay the necessary expenses of those members participating in these events. Any events that shall have the expenses of the qualifying members paid are to be determined by the Board of Directors, using the applicable rules that may be established by B.A.S.S. and this Federation as guidelines.

ARTICLE XI: Federation Tournaments

Section 1. Location and dates

The locations and dates of the Hank Gibson Provincial Tournament, and any other Tournament conducted by the Federation, but not including the OBFN Junior Team Ontario events, shall be determined by a joint vote of the Board of Directors and Steering Committee, based on bids made by Chapters, individually or as groups. In the event that no bids are brought forward, the Steering Committee will present potential locations to the Board of Directors for determination of Tournament sites and dates. All events and/or Tournaments associated with the OBFN Junior Team Ontario shall be determined by the appropriate Chair, in accordance with the Rules established by B.A.S.S. and this Federation.

Section 2. Tournament Eligibility

Each BA.S.S. Chapters of this Federation shall be in compliance with Article III, Section 4 of these bylaws for any member to participate in the Hank Gibson Provincial Tournament. Any new Chapter whose membership is pending:

(a)

Must be in compliance with Article III, Section 3 of these bylaws;

(b)

Must have registered representation at the Board of Director's meeting immediately preceding the Tournament;

(c)

Must have B.A.S.S. acceptance for affiliation not later than cut off date prior to the Tournament;

(d)

Must comply with any and all other eligibility requirements as stated in the OBFN Tournament Basic Format as set forth and appended to these Bylaws as Appendix II, Tournament Rules Committee.

Section 3. Rules and Regulations

(1)

The rules and regulations governing the conduct of the Federation's Tournaments shall be the current Official Rules of Ontario B.A.S.S. Federation Nation and the Ontario B.A.S.S. Qualifier Basic Format. The Official Rules shall be available as part of the Official Entry Form and is to be retained by each Entrant.

(2)

The Official Rules of Ontario B.A.S.S. Federation Nation shall be amended with the approval of the Board of Directors. Exceptions shall be those required to adapt the Rules to comply with the Rules established for a specific event, the Ontario B.A.S.S. Federation Nation Basic Format, Federation policies and Tournament site and waters, and rules established by B.A.S.S.

ARTICLE XII: Miscellaneous

Section 1. Contracts on Behalf of Federation

The Executive Committee or Board of Directors may authorize any Officer or Officers, Agent or Agents, Employee or Employees, to enter into any Contract or Instrument negotiation on behalf of this Federation. The authority to enter into such negotiations may be general or confined to specific instances, and are to determined by the Executive Committee or Board of Directors. Except as herein provided, or as authorized by the Board of Directors, no Officer, Agent or Employee, other than the President and those Officers granted specific authority under Article VI of these By-laws, shall have any power or authority to bind this Federation by any Contract or Engagement, or to Pledge its credit or to render it liable, for any purpose or for any amount.

Section 2. Fiscal Year

The Fiscal Year for this Federation shall begin on November 1 and end on October 31.

Section 3. Audits

Requirements for audit of the financial books and accounts are prescribed in Article IV, Section 10. However, the books and records of the Federation may be audited by an Accountant, so accredited, as selected by the Board of Directors, if the Board of Directors so elects.

Section 4. Conflict of Interest

No Officer, or member of the Board of Directors, shall use his or her position as a means of furthering any personal, political or other aspirations, nor shall the Federation, as a whole, take part in any movement not in keeping with its purpose and objectives.

Section 5. Sources of Federation Nation Income

Funds for support and maintenance of the Ontario B.A.S.S. Federation will be derived from the annual Hank Gibson Provincial Tournament, other Federation sponsored Tournaments, Assessments, special "activity related" projects and donations. Under no circumstances may the Federation accept monetary assistance from individuals, businesses, corporations or government agencies, if there is evidence that the goals of these entities are contrary to the primary goals of the Federation.

Section 6. Dissolution

Upon the dissolution of the Federation, the Board of Directors shall, after paying or making provision for the payment of all of the liabilities of the Federation, dispose of all assets of the Federation exclusively for the purposes of the Federation in such a manner, or to such charitable, educational, environmental or sportsmans organizations as the Board of Directors shall determine.

ARTICLE XIII: Amendments

Section 1. Bylaws

These Bylaws may be amended at any Board of Directors meeting at which there

is a quorum, by a 2/3 majority vote of the Directors present, provided the proposed amendment, in

writing, has been issued to each to each Chapter, by hand delivery, mail or similar electronic means, at least thirty (30) days prior to the vote.

ARTICLE XIV: Standing Rules

Rule 1. Amendment to Standing Rules

The standing rules of the Federation Nation were adopted by rule of the majority; they are therefore subject to the will of the majority at any Board of Directors meeting and may be suspended, modified or rescinded by a majority vote, with a quorum present, without the delay incident to giving previous notice.

Rule 2. Dissemination of Federation Nation Roster

A roster of the Federation Nation B.A.S.S. Chapters and its members may not be given to any individual or organization outside of the Federation unless approved by the Board of Directors.

Rule 3. Federation Nation Team Expenses

It is agreed that Federation Nation Team members (Senior or Junior) who qualify for the B.A.S.S. Tournaments shall be compensated for individual expenses incurred as a result of tournament participation, based on the available funds of the Federation. The Board of Director's of the Ontario B.A.S.S. Federation Nation will determine this allowance.

Rule 4. Interpretation of Bylaws and Standing Rules

The final authority for interpretation of these Bylaws and Standing Rules shall rest with the Board of Directors.

APPENDIX I

OBFN Rules of Order

1. General

a. These rules constitute the Rules of Order for the conduct of the all meetings for the Federation.

b. The rules contained in "Robert's Rules of Order (as revised)" shall govern the Federation in all cases to which they are applicable, and in which they are not inconsistent with these Rules of Order, the Bylaws or Standing Rules.

Call to Order

Regular meetings of the Board of Directors shall be convened on such dates, at such a time and at such a place as shall be determined and announced in accordance with Article IV, Section 4, of the Bylaws; and, it shall be the duty of the President to

(1)

call the meeting to order at the appointed time,

(2)

to preside over the meeting,

(3)

to distribute the agenda,

(4)

to state and put all questions properly before the Directors,

(5)

to preserve order, and

(6)

to decide all questions of order.

Order of Business

a. The Order of Business for the Federation Board of Director's meetings shall be as follows

(1)

Call to order by Federation President

(2)

Introduction by the President

(3)

Call of Roll and introduction of Directors present

(4)

Introduction of distinguished guests and Federation Officials

(5)

Presentation of Minutes of preceding meeting

(6)

Presentation of Treasurer's Report

(7)

Reports of Standing Committees

(8)

Reports of Special Committees

(9)

Unfinished Business (Old Business)

(10)

New Business

(11)

Programmed Activity, if applicable

(12)

Adjournment

Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources

a. The Fisheries and Wildlife Division of the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources shall be extended an open invitation to participate in all regularly scheduled Board of Director's meetings and the Fisheries and Wildlife division's representatives report shall be awarded the same order of business as a report from a Standing Committee. Written invitation shall be extended by President not less than 30 days in advance of each meeting date.

Assumption of Office

a. The Terms of Office, procedures for elections and guidelines for assumption of Office by Federation officials are prescribed in Articles V and VII of the Bylaws.

b. Officials elected during the last meeting of the fiscal year shall assume Office no earlier than October 1, and their assumption of official duties shall be planned so as to coincide with the date of the first Federation meeting to be conducted in the new fiscal year.

c. The period between the elections of, and assumptions of Office shall be utilized as a transition period. This period shall include the close working together of both the newly elected and incumbent Officials, and may include a regular Executive Board or Steering Committee meeting, to provide a smooth transition of Officers.

6. Presentation of Awards, Presentation and Swearing in of New Officials

a. The Presentation of awards for outgoing Officials, Committee Chairs and any Awards shall be scheduled as appropriate.

b. Swearing in of newly elected Officials shall be scheduled for conduct during the Order of Business slated for the President's introduction at the first Board of Director's meeting of the fiscal year, or at any special meeting called by the newly elected President should business arise.

c. The swearing in of the new President and the newly elected officials shall be accomplished by the incumbent President; first, by oath administered jointly to all newly elected officials; last by oath administered separately to the new President. For each occasion, the incumbent President shall administer the following oath to which each electee shall respond with the words: "I DO!"

OATH: "DO YOU SOLEMNLY SWEAR THAT, AS AN ELECTED OFFICIAL OF THE ONTARIO B.A.S.S. FEDERATION NATION, YOU WILL FAITHFULLY AND WILLFULLY EXECUTE THE DUTIES OF YOUR OFFICE, THAT YOU WILL ACCOMPLISH THOSE TASKS RELATED TO YOUR DUTIES WITH THE HIGHEST DEGREE OF INTEGRITY AND IN THE BEST INTERESTS OF THE FEDERATION AND ITS MEMBERSHIP?"

ANSWER: " I DO! "

d. Following issuance of the oath, the outgoing President presents the badge of office to the new President, i.e., gavel. Should the incumbent President also be the newly elected President, or the incumbent President is not available to conduct the swearing in ceremony, it shall be accomplished by an incumbent Official or a returning member of the Board Directors, as selected by the Board of Directors.

Amendments to Rules of Order

a. These rules can be amended at any regularly scheduled meeting of the Board of Directors by a 2/3 majority vote of those present or represented at any Board of Directors Meeting, provided the amendment, in writing, has been issued to each Chapter at least thirty (30) days prior to the vote.

APPENDIX II

Tournament Rules Committee

Ontario Bass Federation Tournaments will be individually governed by the following Committee Chaired by the Tournament Director:

Tournament Director

3 OBFN Members selected by the President and Tournament Director (participating and/or not participating) in the Event

1 OBFN Representative (other than the President) as selected from the Steering Committee by the President

The rulings of this Committee are final

If the Tournament Director chooses to fish in an event, a Tournament Marshall shall be selected by the Tournament Director & President, to act as the Tournament Director for the event.

Federation Nation Tournament Basic Format

1. Must be a member of B.A.S.S. in good standing.

2. Must be a current member of a B.A.S.S. affiliated club and appear on the national roster.

3. Must be a current member of an Ontario affiliated club and appear on the provincial roster.

4. All club dues and fines must be current.

5. Must participate in the event wearing a logo of both B.A.S.S. and this Federation, whether current or of past issuance.

6. Once a Federation Nation member qualifies for Team Ontario, the member, when participating in any OBFN or B.A.S.S. sanctioned, event on behalf of or as part of the Team, must wear the OBFN Team Ontario provided tournament wear or shirt, as provided by the OBFN, in accordance with the Team Ontario contract.

7. When a member of Team Ontario is found to be in a state of non-compliance with the provisions contained in the Team Ontario contract, such an act is grounds for immediate expulsion from the Team.

Tournament Entry

1. Club Team

a. Entries will be received on date specified by Federation entry forms, and must contain the signature of the President, or appointed Officer by the Chapter, of the entrants Chapter, and all entry fees must be received by the Federation no later than the date specified by the Federation

b. Any changes in team members must be cleared with the Tournament Director or Federation Secretary at least 2 weeks before any Tournaments.

c. Club representatives will be determined through qualification in each Chapter.

2. Hank Gibson Provincial Tournament

a. Each Chapter will put forward a pro-rated number of anglers, dependent on the Rules of the individual Tournament, based on Federation membership. It is intended that a tournament field will not exceed 214 anglers qualifying for the Federation Team. Therefore, as an example, should the Federation membership equal 200 members, each Club would put forward 1 angler for every 2 members. The Tournament Director will ensure that Chapter's are advised of this pro-rated number at least sixty (60) days prior to the first qualifying tournament.

3. Tournament Rules

1. All B.A.S.S. tournament rules will be adhered to, with the following exception:

a. There is a plate rating limitation, but BIA rating for each boat must be adhered to.

2. All applicable Federal, Provincial, and municipal laws and regulations must be adhered to.

a. Failure to adhere to any of the above laws or regulations will result in disqualification.

3. Other rules may be established as warranted by the Tournament Director.

(NOTE: AS PER B.A.S.S. RULES, LIMIT WILL BE 5 FISH)

Scoring

Individual

Based on total weight.

Divisional team

The 12 anglers with the best weights over the 2-day period will represent the OBF at the Divisional BASS tournament. The Alternate members of the Team will be determined in accordance with rules established by B.A.S.S.

Participant's Meeting

1. There will be, on the Friday before a tournament (time to be determined), and on the Saturday (optional and at the Tournament Director’s discretion) immediately following the weigh-in a Participant’s Meeting chaired by the Tournament Director.

2. The Friday meeting will go over tournament rules and answer questions.

3. Meetings are mandatory, however exceptions may be granted by the President & Tournament Director, if the reason for missing the meeting is determined to be reasonable.

Boat Check

1. Will be done each morning at the tournament site, in accordance with the instructions provided by the Tournament Director.

2. All boats must be checked before leaving at blast-off.

3. Boat check will consist of the safe operation of livewells, equipment, and kill-switch, as well as life jacket, PFD, flares, horn and/or whistle, appropriate insurance, license, or any other items so determined by the Tournament Director.

Tournament Hours

1. Saturday - 6:30 am to 3:00 PM

2. Sunday - 6:30 am to 3:00 PM

3. Delay of start or cancellation will be at the Tournament Director's discretion.

4. The Tournament hours may be changed by the Tournament Director, if the need should arise, and the competitors will be informed accordingly at the Friday and/or Saturday meeting.

Entry Fees

Entry fees will be $200.00 per club team member.

Team fees must be paid in advance, and must be received by the Federation Treasurer no later than dates specified by Federation.

All entry fees will remain with the Federation.

There will be NO LATE ENTRIES. Refunds will be allowed, but they are reviewed and determined, on a case by case basis, by the Executive Committee.

Payouts

Payouts will be based on a full field of entries, from 1st to 13th position, with the Top 13 anglers going to the B.A.S.S. Divisional Tournament.

Miscellaneous

1. Any situation not specifically covered by the tournament rules and regulations or the

Tournament format will be decided by the Tournament Director, with the assistance of the Tournament Committee.

All decisions by the Tournament Director are final.

3. B.A.S.S. Club World Championship Tournament

a..Each Chapter may put forward Teams of 6 (3 boaters and 3 non-boaters) as determined by B.A.S.S. rules.

b..Tournament Rules

1. All rules of B.A.S.S. will be adhered to, with the following exception:

a. There is a plate rating limitation, but BIA rating for each boat must be adhered to.

2. All applicable Federal, Provincial, and municipal laws and regulations must be adhered to.

a. Failure to adhere to any of the above laws or regulations will result in disqualification.

3. Other rules may be established as warranted by the Tournament Director.

(NOTE: AS PER B.A.S.S. RULES, LIMIT WILL BE 5 FISH PER BOAT)

Scoring

Individual Team

Based on total weight of the three Boats in the Team.

Divisional team

The 6 Teams with the best weights over the Tournament period will move forward to the Divisional B.A.S.S. Tournament.

Participant's Meeting

1. Will be held before the tournament (time to be determined), at the discretion of the Tournament Director.

2. Meetings will go over tournament rules and answer questions.

3. Meetings, if called, are mandatory, however exceptions may be granted by the President & Tournament Director, if the reason for missing the meeting is determined to be reasonable.

Boat Check

1. Will be done each morning at the tournament site, in accordance with the instructions provided by the Tournament Director.

2. All boats must be checked before leaving at blast-off.

3. Boat check will consist of safe operation of livewells, equipment, and kill-switch, as well as life jacket, PFD, flares, horn or whistle, appropriate insurance, license, or any other items so determined by the Tournament Director.

Tournament Hours

a. Will be determined by the Tournament Director and announced prior to the event.

Entry Fees

a. Entry fees will be $600.00 per Team.

b. Entry fees must be paid in advance, and must be received by the Federation no later than dates specified by the Federation.

c. All entry fees will remain with the Federation.

d. There will be NO LATE ENTRIES. Refunds will be allowed, but they are reviewed and determined on a case by case basis, by the Executive Committee.

Payouts

a. Payouts will be based the costs of the Federation to hold the event, and will not be paid out until the week immediately prior to the B.A.S.S. Divisional Tournament.

Miscellaneous

a. Any situation not specifically covered by the tournament rules and regulations or the

Tournament format will be decided by the Tournament Director, with the assistance of the Tournament Committee.

b. All decisions by the Tournament Director are final.

APPENDIX III

1.0

Spending and Account Balances

The President may spend up to $300.00 per year without Executive Committee approval on non-budgeted or non-capital items. After the amount is spent, as approved by the Executive Committee, the amount spent by the President is reset to $0.00 for the remainder of the year on additional non-budgeted or non-capital items.

The Executive Committee may spend up to $750.00 without Board of Director approval for non-budgeted or non-capital items. After the amount is spent, as approved by the Board of Directors, the amount spent by the Executive Committee is reset to $0.00 for the remainder of the year on additional non-budgeted or non-capital items.

Capital or non-budgeted items greater than $750.00 requires majority vote of Board of Directors as outlined in these Bylaws.

A minimum cash balance of $1,000.00 should be kept. If the Federation Nation’s bank balances drop below $1,000.00, each President is to be notified and spending is to be kept only to essential items until additional funds are deposited.

10% of membership fees should be put into a ‘Capital and Emergency Fund’ instrument. This Fund should take the form of a G.I.C. or T-Bill, which is convertible to cash, at any time. Spending or re-investment of this money requires Board of Director approval. This Fund is carried as a separate line on the Balance Sheet.

If the Balance in our chequing account will remain at a high level for some time, the Treasuer can purchase a G.I.C. or T-Bill, which is convertible to cash on behalf of the OBF for a portion of the balance that will not be used in the near future. This investment will be a different one that the ‘Capital and Emergency Fund’ and is carried as a separate line on the Balance sheet.

All OBF Executive Committee members shall have cheque signing authority. There shall be only one set of cheques that will be maintain by the Treasurer, for each needed account type. All cheques must have two OBF Executive Committee member signatures on them. The person whom the cheque is made payable cannot be one of the signatories on the cheque.

2.0

Expenses

All Expenses must be submitted no later than 30 days after the OBFN fiscal year end. After that, the expenses will not be paid by the OBFN and will become the person’s personal responsibility, unless approved by the Board of Directors.

OBFN members may be advanced money for purchases, travel and other expenses. Upon return, proper receipts must be submitted and any excess money must be returned to the OBFN.

The OBFN does not make any ‘Trade for Service’ or ‘Barter’ transactions. All “in” or “out” transactions must be made with cash or cheque for proper accounting practice.

3.0

Financial Reporting

The OBFN’s fiscal year end is October 31, in accordance with Article XII, Section 2 of the Bylaws. Year End Financial Statements are to be presented at the AGM and based on the fiscal year end. A separate set of financial statements, as at the date of the AGM, are not to be presented but must be made available for discussion and decision making purposes at the AGM.

All finacial statements are to be completed with retail computer financial software, which must be provided by the OBFN.

The OBFN Budget is presented by the Treasurer on behalf of the Steering Committee no later than the first regularly scheduled Board of Director’s meeting.

An Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Forecast showing Actual and Budgeted amounts are to be provided quarterly, and at such times as required at the Executive Committee or Board of Directors.

Depreciation must be applied to capital assets held by the OBFN. As a general rule, vehicles should be at depreciated at a rate of 30%. All other capital assets shall be depreciated at a rate of 10%, unless the Board of Directors establishes a specific rate of depreciation for a particular asset.

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