I have seen negative and positive comments on this thread, which I don't normally chime in because of the mixture of feelings and opinions. In my opinion, it is a great idea to have this Co.Op, a sense of unity between breeders and markets. As Noc mentioned, new breeders join KittyCats because we go places having our cute kitties either on our shoulder or riding on one. As a breeder, we are advertising our OWN kitties. It helps to have a pick of your store in your profile so these new breeders can see more kitties. If it's not your store, at least, show how much you love KittyCats and put it as your pick
Honestly, this is quite a large task and effort to do and applaud for everyone who is putting this together. Tasks such consolidating auctions, events, or classes take time and effort. When there is no clear vision or goal as Tad pointed out, indeed, it will lead to disaster or even confusion, animosity, or possibly jealousy as Jwenting pointed out. As of right now, there are so many biased comments and judgment. So how do we move from this? Few people have pointed at what they want to see from this effort. Here are my comments for everyone to think about (let it sink in first before reacting):
1.
PROPOSAL - As Tad pointed out, to write a governing charter. But before writing that, what is the mission of Co.Op? What is the vision? Where is it heading? What are the focuses? Are you focusing on consolidating auctions, creating events, or have breeding classes? What are the values you are imposing? Who is coordinating all of it? When do you plan to execute it? Do you have a timeline? All these efforts will be agreed by everyone. I think everyone will be at ease what are these things and see it in writing. It's like writing a business proposal and all of us are just waiting to see what is the proposal.
2.
WHO - After writing the mission statement, vision goals, and values, I would suggest to have a liaison between markets who is not connected or working for any breedable markets. In order to coordinate any focuses you are planning, the person will be fair and have great deal of sound judgment, plus patience. I am sorry to say this, but to deal with different personalities and bear in mind, language barriers require a deal of patience. I am going to root for this person whoever you pick and I have his/her support for doing these tasks, just saying
3.
MARKET - How is the advertising will work? Are groups will be created? Will there be a website that people can look at? I know there is one, but I think it has been forgotten by few. How do you handle people who can't have groups anymore? How do you reach them? How do you get them involved? Statistically speaking, how many people do really pay attention to group notices and forum? I know BreAnn (Brunabug Nightfire) has been keeping up with auction schedule gridwide fabulously and I rely on her spreadsheet a lot since I can't have groups anymore and I'm one of the people who turned off notices so yes, I will miss notices. I'm filled with groups.
I am still hopeful that this effort can be done. Have a wonderful day and thank you for being patient to read all my damn questions. Always have fun and enjoy breeding
Introducing "KittyCatS! Co.Op!" - *EVEN* More Markets are Joining!!
