As the guild spins....

So, I've been offered a seat on the code development council for the local fire guild.
I've turned it down.
And I think some folks will want to know why.

First, I feel that this is an ill conceived attempt to patch things up with NAFAA as suggested by the State Fire Marshall at the last meeting. I say 'ill conceived' because my presence on this council could be interpreted as an endorsement of the group's actions. And, let's face it, this guild was formed as a reaction to NAFAA actions and built in a specific attempt to contradict them. A NAFAA endorsement at this point would be confusing at best, damaging to both at worst.

Second, I have always made myself available to any questions anyone has had regarding NAFAA info, or local codes. When this guild was formed, I reiterated that offer and it was ignored. I'm thinking that this guild needs to begin the process of extending beyond itself, and tapping other resources, like state fire codes, local laws, etc before I can consider being a part of it.

Finally, I still maintain that my absence in the guild actions has, is and will continue to encourage average performers to take some more direct action in the process than looking my way. Once the nickname "safety nazi" began to fade a bit, people started relying on me a little to frequently and too heavily in their safety concerns. For several years, it seemed that anytime someone wanted a permit, my phone rang. And when anyone asked a fire safety question in my presence, all eyes turned to me. Hopefully, after that last guild meeting there's a few people reading the NAFAA wiki, and reviewing the performer safety guidelines to get answers of their own.

Keep in mind that all these decisions are personal. My decision to keep a distance from the guild should not deter other people from joining it. It is not an endorsement for, or against, the guild.