SURVEY RESULTS
1. Gender Breakdown

Female: 16 Male: 14 Couple: 1

2. Primary motivation for joining.

Average Score: 4.13 - To learn more about the lifestyle through workshops etc.

Average Score: 4.67 - To socialize with like minded people and become a part of a BDSM community

3.Primary reason for remaining a member.

Average Score: 3.80 - To learn more about the lifestyle through workshops etc.

Average Score: 4.90 - To socialize with like minded people and become a part of a BDSM community

4. Currently before a person becomes a member, we encourage them to come to at least two munches before they are interviewed. They fill out an application as you know and then have an interview with two members of the Executive. Which ONE of the following comments best represents your point of view.

14 The current process works fine. Applicants who demonstrates a genuine interest in learning about

Erotic BDSM and socializing with like-minded people may be admitted as members in EOS.

13 We should be more careful than we are about admitting folks. Having them attend two munches

and then letting them in is too early (please explain in the space below)

1 We should be much stricter about letting folks in, saying "no" more often. After all it is a safety issue (please explain in the space below)

Other...please explain in the space below.
Comments:
We should follow our by-laws if more stringent than current policy. No changes until new executive election.

I think 2 munches is not indicative of who we are, or enough time in getting to know the prospective member. I would think 3 munches plus an invite to 1 meeting w ould be more thorough for both parties.

I think that we should be able to ask people to come to a few more munches before being admitted at the time of there interview if we are uncomfortable about any thing and this should be done after the interview stage. I also think that all applications should be reviewed after the interview before giving final decisions so that people under stand that becoming a member is a privilege and not a right.

It must be remembered that potential members have a genuine interest in BDSM. As it stands, there is a least one person that attends munches on a fairly regular basis that, in my opinion, should not be allowed to join.

I think that in order to show a genuine interest in erotic BDSM, it takes more than 2 social gatherings (or munches) to know if one wants to continue further…

I don’t know that 2 munches necessarily gives people a chance to really get the "feel" of the person being interviewed. I think 99% of the time, it works, but there are times when it may not. I know, personally, I was interviewed at my second munch and accepted into the group. I think part of that was because those interviewing me had interacted with me outside of the group, but I don’t know how comfortable I would necessarily be with someone else this way. I think at least 2 munches must be completed –before- being interviewed at the 3rd munch, then maybe being invited to join at the 4th. Maybe what I’m saying here is a little definition

I feel that asking perspective members to wait until after the next executive meeting is not requiring too much. That way we have a better chance to have more people talk to them and for them to find out more about us.

Applicants that have an interest in learning about Erotic BDSM, socializing with like-minded people, and support the statement of purpose of EOS, should be admitted as members in EOS.

Though I believe that we should not restrict anyone from joining our group, I also believe that occasionally we will have people who require more careful thought by the membership comittee before granting admitance. There are those who can be hurt by this lifestyle if they are not ready or if they don't really understand what we are about. We have to use common sense and take each applicant separately with concern for both them and our group.

I think that they should come to 3 munches, get their application at the second and the be interviewed at their third. There will undoubtably be exceptions, ie. special circumstances where more caution should be taken and we have to be prepared to deal with this type of situation

I think we should have a more eloborate interviewing process. When I was on the executive I only did three interviews. During those interviews the manner was social, whilst this is fine, it does reflect a casual acceptance that I think should not be so casual. Someone wanting to become a member should be able to identify themselves (not by an online nickname but their real name)and there reasoning for seeking membership in the EOS. There are members which I beleive should have been turned away and told why. Remeber the old days when we had people on probation and checked back in with them.?

The 2 munches are ok but we should be following the bylaws and have whoever did the interview report to the exec. and let the exec. make the decision. I also believe that once the exec. says ok there should be a 3 month probation period where anyone’s membership can be revoked with dues reimbursed.

My response is a combination of the first and second statements. I think the current process works fine but would be willing to entertain the concept of extending the number of munches a prospective member should attend before the interview process. This would give the applicant a better chance to understand what the group is about and decide if indeed they want to join the group. If a prospective member is interested enough to stick out the waiting period they can then be granted an interview. Applicants that have an interest in learning about Erotic BDSM and the social aspects of the community may then be admitted into the group.

IF WE ARE GOING TO ADVERTISE FOR MEMBERS (as we did a while back in See Magazine) I DO BELIEVE THAT THE BIGGEST THING IS SAFETY. PERHAPS ANY NEW MEMBERS SHOULD BE REQUIRED TO PRODUCE A POLICE RECORD CHECK AS ONE OF OUR PRECAUTIONS. IT SEEMED TO ME THAT I GOT IN FAIRLY EASILY WITHOUT HAVING TO PROVE THAT I WAS NOT A SEXUAL DEVIANT OR SOME KIND OF THREAT TO RUN OF THE MILL SOCIETY. ( ie. child molester, murderer, drug dealer etc.)

Two munches to get to know what someone is like , to basically "get a feel" for what they are about doesn’t seem like much time. I believe that 3-5 munches may better determine two things:

- how the person feels about the group and what it’s about.

- How EOS feels about the person and what he/she is about



5. Do you think that the Executive should have the power to sanction members for their behaviour?

24 Yes (Go to B)
7 No (Go to E)

If YES, under what circumstances











By vote of general membership

Under the circumstances named above that are currently covered by bylaw section 9

Hard to clarify, there are many situations that could bring this about, but abuse of guidelines and breaches of the safe,

sane, consensual motto would be my #1 concern.

If the problem relates directly to the group and is putting any members of our group in harms way then the executive

of THE GROUP should have the ability to deal with that individual

If that member has endangered the club as a whole in any manner, such as slander, etc. however, if the behaviour is

personal to someone, or endangers a single member, then I would suggest doing one’s best to deal with it on their

own…if it cannot be dealt with between the two people, then maybe ask a member of the executive to mediate, but

This is a double edged sword. No matter how you look at things, though the EOS does not sanction, organise, or

otherwise hold any "play" events, being a member of the EOS gives someone access to the "community", and events

which could endanger members. I think there needs to be some clarification and definition set up for the by-law, but I

do think the by-law should remain. I don’t think it’s fair that anyone can say "I don’t like you, so I’m complaining about

you to the Executive", however, I think, for matters of safety, that there needs to be somewhere that a member can

turn and say, "I have a serious problem here.." and that the Executive has some ground to stand on.

This is not an easy question to answer. I kept wavering back and forth between Yes and No. There should be some

mechanism in place that allows the executive to protect it’s members, but only in defined circumstances. These

circumstances need to be discussed amongst the members

We need to exercise that power very surgically and only if a member is seriously hurt, through neglect or by not

listening to a safe word. This neglect can go both ways a sub can be negligent by not telling the dom of health

problems, current illness or injury.

If the member has done something that affects the group (derogatory comments about the group, breach of

confidentiality, breach of privacy)

Disputes between members that don’t have a bearing on the whole group’s integrity should be settled between the

principals, although a member of the group could help by mediating.

The group should avoid branding people as ‘dangerous players’

The Executive are the people elected by the group to act for the group. I think their major concern should be for the

group as a whole. Single members will have beefs with other single members. This is a given. I believe that the only

time the executive should have the power to step in, is when there is danger that the group will be harmed or

compromised. We have a protocol that is followed when there is a complaint, and I think that it should be followed and

adhered to. If a complaint is deemed personal by the membership director and/or the ombudsman, it should be

Only if it would effect on EOS as a group.

personality conflicts have no business being handled by the Executive



I believe that complaints brought forward should be valid, and justifiable. However I think that strict requirements for

these complaints must be adhered to. It is my opinion that the executive does not have time to deal with an onslaught

of complaints over trivial matters, after all I am sure that they all have lives outside the group. However, when

something is justified I think it is the duty to investigate and probe to resolve the concern, this should be done of

course with minimal outside intefereance. An independent ombudsman perhaps that sits outside the exec, and is a

member of the general population, someone would be willing to listen and investigate and report quickly with an

unbiased report to the executive with proposed actions of the groups behalf.

if there are proven accusations that an individual has done something to directly and intentionally harm another within

the group be it through play or slander. I do feel that this should be done by a vote with no less that 100% of the

executive agreeing.

Only if the offence is against another member and at a "sanctioned "EOS event

AS FAR AS EOS MEMBERS ARE CONCERNED I DO BELIEVE THAT AS A GROUP WE HAVE THE RITE TO POLICE

OURSELVES. I ALSO BELIEVE THAT WE HAVE THE RITE TO A SET "REASON LIST" FOR COMPLAINT . WE MAY

HOWEVER NEED TO REVISE THE LIST AND HAVE A MEMBER VOTE ON THE ON THE NEW ADDITIONS OR DELETIONS.

All complaints should be discussed at regularly scheduled meetings of the executive. This is persuant to the bylaws

of any society.

If there is proven evidence/facts by person making complaint toward person, and it is more than just one person’s

personal dislike for the other. If there are enough facts and proof that the person is harmful in behavior, that person

should be reprimanded/removed, depending on the infraction.

These should be very carefully and clearly defined; thus the concept of a "dangerous player" for which we, as a

group, have never been able to define is not acceptable whereas doing something to compromise another members

privacy confidentiality would be reasonable grounds for complaint. Conduct or play which results in physical or

mental injury to a member should probably be considered as necessitating education or guidance rather than grounds

for a formal complaint. Only repeated and wilful behavior of this nature would be cause for a formal complaint.

I believe the powers of the executive should be limited to EOS activities - dangerous or unacceptable behavior

between members only. Dealing with personal relationships seems

inappropriate.

If privacy is invaded or safety of individual is jeopardized.

I think the Executive should be within their rights to sanction a member who exibits unsafe play, or breaches

confidentiality. This should be for serious matters only, and not for petty disagreements and personality

clashes. I think proof should be required if the EOS is going to sanction someone for their behavior.

Definitely for dangerous players, and I think if the nature of disclosure or the like could potentially harm the group as a

whole, or an individual in the dealings with the group, then the executive should have the power to look into the

behavior. (Excluding ideas of personal grips unrelated to the group or individuals)

The complaints should be sectioned into two parts

1) Complaints brought forward where the described action by a member requires direct action e.g. serious injury,

non-consensual, illegal activity, etc

2) Complaints brought forward where the described action is perceived to be: non proper behavior, and such

complaint should be kept on classified record for a period of time so the EOS can determine if there is a pattern with

In general: Where a member commits an act or omission that prejudices the EOS, the EOS’s objects, its standing, or

any of its members where this has an adverse effect on the EOS as a whole.



If YES, do you believe such powers should relate only to behaviour at EOS related events or be broader than that?
13 EOS events
11 Broader than that

Please explain your answer

We represent a life-style to the general public.

Public indiscretion.

I reluctantly answered the bottom one, as I believe what one does in private is their own business with the exception

that a member of EOS abuses another member outside the events of the EOS.

If the Executive is made aware of a member slandering or otherwise harming the group’s reputation at all, no matter

where or when, then I think that member should at least be put on probation, if not sanctioned.

I believe both groups should be involved, but if there is only one option, then I would choose the membership

The general need for sanction would occur only if we did not have people in our group which were largely self

policing. I believe our group will weed out unsafe players with more finality than any bylaw ever could.

Part in parcel of my answer above – Access to the EOS provides access to other events within the BDSM Community.

Unfortunately, I don’t think you can limit the behaviour issue to EOS sponsored events, because issues such as

dangerous play or stuff like not respecting safe-words aren’t likely to be happening at an event where there is no play,

ie, EOS Sponsored events.

The executive has no business getting involved in private parties, in someone’s home or any event or place outside of

the munches or meetings. Within EOS functions however, members need to feel that there is some protection against

unwanted attention, obnoxious behavior, breach of confidentiality etc.

Only at EOS events is there the possibility that there will be witness to the incident. We should not be in the homes or

playrooms of our members dictating what is neglect and what isn’t. We do not know what was negotiated for that

scene and so are not in a position to make an informed decision.

It’s unlikely that ‘derogatory comments about the group, breach of confidentiality, or breach of privacy’ would need to

be addressed if they occurred at an EOS event. If these however occur outside the group’s events they would be of

serious concern (media, internet, etc).

We should police ourselves. After all we have our own code of conduct, our own expectations ect. for our functions,

and we know that other groups have different ideas of proper behaviour. I say again that our concern should be for

the wellbeing of our own group.

While a community is responsible for itself and its members it is NOT responsible for policing its members. Any

organization can not please its entire membership all of the time (which is good) I do not want to be part of an

organization that would have the power (given it by its membership) to police or punish another person. BDSM

relationships are delicate and private, meaning a Top and bottom need to work out their own shit on their own not

publically. This organization does not belong in the bedrooms or dungeons of its members. Now having said that

perhaps we need to offer more information on consentual and safe and the committment to communication needed in a

lets face it, most of the play parties we all attend involve basically the group, while not sanctioned by EOS, it still

involves the same group of people and I feel that legitimate complaints arising out of situations like this are valid.

Anyone agreeing to "play" with someone outside of "sanctioned" events does so at their OWN risk.

In other words you MUST trust the people you play with to adhear to the agreed upon limits you have set

There must always be a clause in the bylaws to protect the group as a whole against the potential for a member to

draw the group into legal issues and financial battles. There should not be room in this bylaw for members to abuse

the bylaw for personal agendas. The group may wish to allow for mediation in personal disputes but should refrain

from sanctioning members for their conduct unless it is supported by a criminal conviction which may jeopardize the

IF MEMBERS OF THE SOCIETY ARE GOING TO SOCIALIZE TOGETHER, THEN THE RULES OF THE SOCIETY MUST

EXTEND TO ALL EOS EVENTS AS WELL AS PRIVATE FUNCTIONS BETWEEN EOS MEMBERS. EVEN IF IT IS JUST

GOING TO A MOVIE WITH ANOTHER COUPLE. FROM EOS. THESE RULES DO NOT EXTEND TO VANILLA FRIENDS

UNLESS SOME FORM OF ILLEGALITY HAS HAPPENED.

This is the ONLY area where the EOS has any viable reason for concern. Any other act or sanction against any

person or persons for rumors or other such innuendo is not only improper, but is also illegal. It also absolves the

executive of getting in the ‘middle’ of personal squabbles and political nonsense. Having spent many years serving on

the board of directors of more than a few non-profit societies, I can assure you that this is the only recourse available

and viable for the organization. In cases where concerns / complaints ARE brought forward to the executive, this must

be discussed by the executive ONLY! To institute a scenario where you have a special committee set up only creates

an environment that is hostile, highly suspect and begins to resemble a mob/inquisition mentality.

The behavior that may be called into serious question, regarding safety of the group doesn’t necessarily have to only

be related to EOS. A person who is found to be a sex offender, or more has sexually offended with the group doesn’t

necessarily mean the person is in EOS. Not sure if this makes sense, but I think a person’s history should be a factor.

Anything that occurs between two or more members of the EOS should be included. Thus leaving printouts of a

members party arrangements where non members may find then and use them to hassle that member would seem a

reasonable grounds for a complaint as would happenings at events where members are present as EOS members,

e.g. members parties or events organized by other organizations to which EOS members have been invited (3SM’s

Ides of March or Black Ice

If a person is behaving out of conduct outside of EOS then there should also be repercussions.

Events held by other groups or associations, I believe that it would have to be backed up and should be of a more

public nature. (As in a public event or group related scenario) Personal dealings between people should not have to

involve the executive.

Conduct should be considered in all aspect of bdsm play or attending other functions as a member of EOS. Conduct

reflects on the group as a whole if a member's behavior is not according to proper conduct written in EOS bylaws or

unwritten common accepted standards.

Within certain limits, the EOS should have the right to protect itself and its members wherever and whenever a

member’s conduct has adverse effects on the EOS as a whole, regardless of where or when the behaviour occurs.

For example:

- an EOS member, in the privacy of his/her own home, publishes on line the names of EOS members or other

confidential information.

- An EOS member with control over funds finds a way to keep some for himself/herself,

- An EOS member purports to make public announcements on behalf of EOS without authority of the members

- An EOS member is arrested and convicted of a serious crime, especially a sex crime. (Imagine if Paul Bernardo and

Karla Homulka had been EOS members when they were arrested and charged with murder and DS-inspired sex

crimes. If you have read anything about them, it is not out of the realm of possibility that they might have been attracted

to a BDSM oriented club. They certainly had a collection of BDSM toys. And even if they had been perfect EOS

members and no one had any reason to complain about them, the fact of their membership would have eventually

become public knowledge after their arrest. Now, I realize that it is not for the EOS to become a "BDSM Police" and root

out all bad players, let alone dangerous psychopaths. But if such a thing were to occur in EOS and EOS did not even

make the token, symbolic gesture of throwing such members out of the group, other EOS members will have been

forever be associated with these 2 murderers in the minds-eye of the police, the press, and anyone else with a long

memory. If you think this is absurdly hypothetical, ask me about a recent trial in St. Albert. If the term "club" is to have

any meaning, the members need the tools to control who joins and who stays

d) If YES do you believe that hearings should be held by the Executive or by a specially called membership committee formed specifically to address the issue?

10 by the Executive

13 by a Membership Committee

Comments

Membership committee if there are witnesses or others who may have additional insight into the issue.

This (a membership ctte)would make it easier to have a committee with no "conflicts of interest"

The executive is only elected to deal with E.O.S. issues and I believe that the executive members would put them

selves in a possible liability position to bring down sanctions that where not related to group activities.

This committee would be more specifically geared toward solving issues that my need a hearing.

e) If NO please explain why in your own words...

Having been thru the process with a complaint I can say that as an individual I cannot investigate to the fullest, as the

law would do to tell if someone is telling the truth or not. I also think if someone’s behavior is unwelcome they will be

‘weeded’ out naturally and if they are a threat or ‘bad’ or ‘dangerous’ then the police can look after it, as they are the

trained individuals. If we as a group teach people what ‘safe’ sane’ and ‘consensual ‘ is then they are following the

suggestions and will hopefully be safe. THERE ARE NO GAURENTEES no mater what sort of bylaws or rules we

It is impossible for us to police the actions of our members. The exec. has no legal powers but in passing judgement

on another member could expose him/herself to legal persuit. I truly believe that a group such as ours will always

police itself due to its very nature.

I joined EOS to have fun and to meet new people. I don’t see why my style of play should be monitored, and diffidently

not judged. By allowing the exec to sanction someone’s behaviour is like telling him or her how to play. One should be

guided and educated through various workshops and open communication and that along with a carefully worded

interview should be enough to deter inappropriate behavior



6. How satisfied are you with the Munches

20 Very Satisfied

10 Somewhat Satisfied

1 They're okay

0 Somewhat Dissatisfied

0 Very Dissatisfied

Suggestions for Improvements:

A more organize seating arrangement would help ie more chairs, tables and set up to allow some tables to

accommodate 2 people to 20.

When new members are present, stand up and introduce them so W/we may all know the name under which to call

We’re running out of space for the munches at the Garage *chuckles*. That, and I’ve run into a situation where I

found my private life "outed" due to running into someone there who knew me at work. It became a complicated

situation where I was obligated to come out to members of my family..something I wasn’t particularily prepared to do.

Thankfully, it worked out..but I’m not so sure it would the next time around.

I am not sure how we can improve a munch. They are by nature held in public and so are strictly a social function

where like minded people can get together to take about BDSM or last night’s hockey game. We do all try to mingle

with the group and go out of our way to say hello to newcomers.

Always establish that a few people greet newcomers, perhaps have a wee booklet with stats (number of

members, how long we've been around, info about the web page, etc) for new people.

Suggestions for Improvements: It would be nice to have a brighter and less smoky venue. However we are treated

very well at the garage and I feel safe there

: Group outings would be nice for a change. Financed by the group from some sort of fund raising thing within the

BDSM, GAY, LESBIAN,TV etc. communities.

Gatherings such as Lupericalia, would be an excellent addition to the groups activities. Add more of them

throughout the year, would be my suggestion.

Perhaps, occasionally, pick/find other venues other than bars, especially since the group does seem more ???

They seem to be fulfilling their function very satisfactorily however we do not know how many prospective

members are put off coming in because of the relatively non-public nature of the space we use. It might be

enlightening to ask our recent new members how they felt about the space.



7 Generally how satisfied have you been with the meetings?

14 Very Satisfied

10 Somewhat Satisfied

3 They're okay


0 Somewhat Dissatisfied
Suggestions for Improvements:
I’ll wait until I attend a few more first.

I would like to see more ‘how to’ workshops and more presentations from kink-aware professionals.

More non BDSM social events may nice at our meetings. It would allow our newcomers to see we are real folks as

well to BDSM practictioners. Ie. Pool nite, etc

I liked the "round table" approach of the last meeting…made for a much more intimate grouping of people.

I have only attended one meeting so far, not counting the elections so I don’t feel qualified to answer.

I am not a newbie anymore. I don't always get a lot of information ffrom the meetings, but on the otherhand I know

that we have a lot of new people who need the basics. Education has to start from the basics so we need to

I'd suggest setting up a few meetings for social events OR having a few months of the year open for people to sign

up and then those people organize an event....such as the fish bowl game (although I've always missed that game)

or a question and answer period (staging some questions to provoke other questions) mingle more with other

groups.....NLAe or NLAc, hold workshops or talks. Set up some form of mentoring, all of us start from somewhere

and some of us have more resources than others (in oh so many ways) perhaps matching people up with others to

mentor would be thought provoking. Have more demo's, flogging technques, caning, causing brusing, not causing

brusing.....cock and ball torture, the hows and whys, submission, casual or more.....panel discussions with people

: have speakers from other areas and groups as well.

As stated previously in survey, I have found the quality and variety of the workshops to be very improved over the

first 18 months I was involved with the group

I have only been to one meeting, and it was the last one - in Feb. I was very satisfied with it.

I find that additional organization to make them roll with less interruption would be well received.

We could try to make each meeting a bit more of a social event, right there at the church, before or after the main

event of the evening. Order in pizza or sandwiches, play music – anything that enables people to socialize right then

8. What do you think about the membership fee of 20 per year?

17 Too low...raise it to $25 per year if it means we can do more fun stuff

13 Just right. Leave it alone. We get enough bang for buck right now. Don’t need more.

1 No Answer

Comments

I’m fine with it any way – Going up to $25 per year if it will enable more events is great, or leaving it the same is

okay too….I don’t think we need to lower it though. Not sure where you want me to stick that one.

I have only attended one meeting so far, not counting the elections so I don’t feel qualified to answer.

Although I think we do enough, raising it to $25/year could enable us to do an annual event on a larger scale as

already discussed. If the rest of the membership also wanted such an event (our own version of Ides) I would be

happy to pay the extra $5 to make sure we had the funds to get the very first one off the ground.

I feel we need to decide what we want to do and then arrange financing accordingly. When the results of this

soul searching exercise are in and a decision as to what the club is to be and do, the treasurer should probably

produce a budget and fees set accordingly. We do not need to be in the position of having $$$$s in the bank and

putting out requests as to how to spend the excess nor do we need to have the treasurer coming every 3 months

begging for extra subs to cover our expences.

9. Generally speaking how satisfied are you with the work of the Executive

21 Very Satisfied

9 Somewhat Satisfied

0 They're okay

1 Somewhat Dissatisfied



Suggestions for Improvements:

Not completely understanding the inner workings that well yet, I have no suggestions as yet.

I have no suggestions for improvements, as I am very pleased with the work of the Executive.

Having been on the executive of other clubs I know how difficult it is to run an organization. Improvements can

always be made, however, this executive seems to be doing an excellent job from what I can see.

Focus more on the group as a whole. You have been elected to uphold the bylaws and use them. Don't let single

members try to throw a monkey wrench in to the works just to get their own way. It's the group and not the single

member that is the most important.

I have been very pleased with the executive over the past year. There has been more communication and sharing

of duties and it has been obvious in the quality of workshops we have been presenting to our members and in the

desire for so many of our members to come out to munches on a very regular basis.

Originally, I was more than happy with what it was that they were doing. The latest events have given me GRAVE

concerns, however. Most notably, the uni-focal activities where they seem to have ignored the bylaws to which

they are bound, chosen to ignore the protests of the membership they are here to serve and have plodded onward

on their course no matter the cost. The decision to ignore the ’90 day notice’ rule and simply say "Oops, so sorry,

but it is as it is" was greviously wrong. Instead what SHOULD have happened was they should have simply said

"Hmm … well we are late, so the plans will have to be delayed until the 90 day period is up". By doing otherwise

they have illustrated the obvious lack of regard for the rules and the membership. They have further shown a

dangerous president for their potential future actions. I am curious as to what has sponsored them to act in such a

unilateral manner and with such force. What has sponsored their want to achieve their objectives at any and all

costs? The scenario seems to be playing out to indicate that they are ‘after’ someone or intent on creating a rule or

set of rules to deal with a specific situation or self observed crisis that I am not aware of. Indeed, I suspect many

are not aware of. The motives are questionable and the actions to achieve the objective or objectives are simply

wrong. How to improve? Simply follow the rules. The bylaws are there for good reason; The benefit of the

membership and the protection of the executive. Failure to do so provides, at the best, a disservice to both parties

… and at the worst a gross act of conscious wrong doing or gross negligence.

To a small degree, I feel that the group, or some within, are a bit "cliquish". I understand that some in the group

have been pretty close (friends) with each other, but I sometimes feel slightly intimidated about trying to talk with

I would like to see the Executive to be willing to give reasonable justification for their decisions when asked by a

member of the Society

I think the Exec is doing a great job.

I think the executive is doing wonderful and I for one, appreciate the execute consulting the membership on issues

affecting us all. (Personally I think the mandate to review the screening process is reasonable and very well

It is difficult to be a member on the board of a volunteer club, because it can be very time consuming and even the

best prepared person can find themselves unable to do the work they would like to be able to do. Overall I have no

complaints, except perhaps that membership rules and procedures need to be cleared up and closely adhered to.

10. Do you think the EOS should expand its mandate and host "play parties"?

2 Yes for EOS Members ONLY

6 Yes for EOS Members and GUESTS they can personally vouch for.

12 Yes for EOS Members, GUESTS, and MEMBERS of OTHER recognized BDSM Groups (e.g.

NLA, Northern Chaps, etc.)

0 Yes for ANYONE who wants to attend

6 No, EOS should NOT host play parties.

Comments:

Proof necessary

I am torn on this question, as it would be nice to have play parties for those that cannot play at home or have other

circumstances that prevent play being a part of their life, but on the other hand, I know that the Executive does not

want new members thinking that this is what the EOS is for. Possibly hosting one play party a month, such as after

the meetings would be ok, but I would not die if this did not happen.

You’re getting into a dangerous area here, given the nature of our organization. Hosting a play party would make the

executive ultimately responsible for the goings-on (legally) and let’s face it, things can happen. If EOS hosted a play

party they would have to open it up to everyone in EOS, tried and untried members. I personally feel there are

members of EOS that aren’t ready or shouldn’t be invited to a play party. How would you exclude them?

Right now play parties are for invitees only and the homeowner takes the risk if someone should be hurt. I believe

that in order for EOS to host a party we would have to make sure that we have the proper insurance and then make

sure that everyone is invited so that no one feelings are hurt. Right now the list of people able to attend is always

limited to the size of the home of the host and hostess.

I havent checked any because I dont like the word "mandate" I'm not against the EOS hosting parties but lets not put

anything in the damn bylaws, ok. A wee social or play party would be fun and I think the EOS has the resources to

While I would like to see this expansion, I am not quite sure that if the group sanctions them that the possible legal

ramifications would be worth it to the club.

I have mixed thoughts on this. I think it needs to be discussed further if people in general want them. I am not sure

what the liabilities would be etc. etc

As this question stands I have to reserve my vote. I feel it is not in the best interest of EOS to host "play parties" for

the sake of doing a play party (members can do private parties). On the other hand I would like to see the possibility

of EOS hosting a larger public event such as a workshop weekend that might include a "play party". My

understanding is the bylaws does not prevent this from happening now….it is more of a verbal policy. It may not be

necessary to change the mandate which would then force us to promoting play parties of some type.

UNFORTUNATELY, HAVING NEVER ATTENDED A PLAY PARTY I REALLY CAN HAVE NO OPINION AS I HAVE NOT

SEEN WHAT GOES ON. DAMN!!!!!!!

I thought that doing so was specifically stayed away from and that the EOS was deemed to be an educational group

only. I also thought that to do otherwise opened up the organization to legal improprieties … as such, I say ‘No’.

I would like to see the Society able to host a larger play party after such events as Lupercalia. Rick did a marvelous

job this year but I don’t see this as the responsibility of an individual member. Also most private play parties are, by

limited space, restricted to a selected group of the membership. However play parties are a very educational

opportunity for novice members and it would be, I think, a reasonable function of the Society to arrange the

occasional party in a space large enough for all members to be invited. I would envisage these parties operating

under rather more restrictive party rules than are applied at private parties but I don’t think that would be a problem

I am fairly new to the lifestyle and EOS. But I think the idea of members hosting parties, not EOS, is still a good idea. It

does protect the group by doing this. Individual members are more able to limit who is to attend, and the Society ends

up staying an "educational" group.

Play parties should include EOS members, and guests.

I suppose if EOS wished to invite other organisations like Northern Chaps, that would be ok, but I would

prefer if individual members of other groups were invited, and not the whole group. I would feel safer and more comfortable if at

least someone in EOS could vouch for anyone who was invited to a play party. I don't feel that can be done by a general

invitation, as we don't really know the entire membership of other groups. For larger gatherings, prehaps EOS could

colaborate with another BDSM group and co-host an event, that way everyone attending would be subject to

the governing laws of their individual group. I think one annual or semi- annual party a year would be an added touch if it is

plausible. I have no problem with EOS events that include fairly raw demonstrations (Don Bastien’s single tail whip demo of a

few years ago), or that "blend" into a private play party (as happened after Lupercalia). But if EOS is to sponsor play

parties, then we must consider several issues:

A. As strange as it may seem to more extraverted or exhibitionistic members, not everyone likes public play. Will

membership dues of such people go to an event that they are not going to participate in?

B. EOS has a moral duty to ensure that players are safe, if it runs play parties. Some people feel that the membership

admission and bad behaviour bylaws concerns are already too intrusive. Just wait until we have a play party where

something goes wrong . . .

C. Play parties are going to happen anyway. Individuals will invite other individuals and if those individuals happen to

be EOS members, then fine. But if you make it an EOS event, then any EOS member can show up, and EOS must find

volunteers to run it, establish a budget, send out invitations, appoint dungeon masters. I’ll bet these jobs would fall to

the same half-dozen people each time. It’s a lot of work in addition to what we already expect of the executive.

I think we should follow the example of the Society of Janus in San Francisco. It is one of the oldest and most

respected BDSM groups in North America. It does not run play parties. But its members, I’m told, hold some great play

parties.

10. Any other comments you would like to make?

Let’s not have change for change’s sake. I believe that nothing, except following our by-laws stringently is called

for at this time. We should see what we’ve got.

Good Survey Zen

Personally, my only qualm I have is the slide from the pagan style of rules and restrictions to a overly open, almost

playground style, where the lifestyles of both dom(mes) and subs are much more relaxed than my own personal

taste.

Of course, this is my own personal concern, but I would prefer a much more rigid and restrictive way of both

Keep up the good work guys.

EOS is growing and will always experience some growing pains…we should more faith in ourselves that we will

find the correct route and the group will be ok.

Given the variety of members that we have you’re going to get opinions and answers ranging the entire spectrum.

You can’t please everyone. Make the decisions you feel are necessary.

When I came to the EOS it was because I felt isolated by my kinkness. I wanted to know that I wasnt alone in the

city. It was extremely difficult to approach the group, my first munch I attended every male spoke to me but not one

female did. I have experience so I have never been here for an education, however being here has been an

education.....I see the EOS as a social organization althought I would like to learn more. I think we have the

resources to do many things but I beleive first we need to figure out where we are. The executive has been great

and under the leadership of Zen and Gary has grown very healthy. Conflicts are healthy and surviving them allows

us to see we get along without all being the same. Some ongoing problems always seem to come from the same

area....gossip and half truths. I used to think we should just ignore them, I dont think that way anymore although I am

very concious about how much energy should be used on such triva shit. I dont want to point fingers despite my

twitching finger but I beleive we all know where some of our problems lie. Having said that I reflect back to when

new members were put on probation (for lack of a better word) and then checked back in with at a later date.

Perhaps we could re-visit that idea again...if we do I want to be put on permenant probation! I think the EOS should

not hestiate to say no to some people who want to beome members. But I catious that this is the same group that

was advertsing last year and now we're here. All in all I appreciate your work and hope you know that and I beleive

the EOS is evolving as it should...…

I would like to see the club perhaps take a tact to educate more, not so much within the group, but towards new

comers. Perhaps the establishing of a "Beginners Night" or something along that idea, after all wee we not all

'curious' at one time?

In general, my experiences with those in this group have been extremely favorable, friendships outside the life have

been established.

I am impressed that the executive has taken this route to look at what the membership wants, and needs from the

I think EOS has a very good membership base and we have come together more as a family over the last 18 months.

I would very much like to see this continue as we grow and draw more people into our family. As we get larger

we will be faced with many decisions that will impact on the membership and I think the executive has made a good

decision in taking this back to the members and looking for direction. I think as we grow and evolve we must

remember our roots and why this group was started and we must be very careful not to exclude from our midst the

very people we were intended to offer education and emotional support to. This survey will help to get the general

tone from the members about what they would like to see happen with the group but statistics can be misinterpreted

and much discussion will be needed to institute changes.

I am curious as to where the monies are at and/or going that have been collected from membership dues. I am

gravely concerned, as illustrated above, by the actions of late of the executive and am feeling EXTREMELY wary of

what seems to be happening. With this in mind, I find I am keeping an eye on the ‘EXIT’ sign, something I do not wish

to have happen in a group such as this where vulnerablilities are as high as they are by way of the basis for the

organization. Advise ... LISTEN!!! And explain, and follow the rules

What ever decisions are made about the future of the Society, I feel that we must be very careful not to limit the

membership to those of whom we "Approve". The Society should remain open to anybody who exhibits an interest

in "erotic BDSM" in all it forms.

At this time W/we are satisfied with EOS and hope to become more involved in its happenings.

BDSM is fun. Lets try to keep it that way. We are all in this together. I think the Exec is doing a great job.