HTML Handbook
MAQUIS FORCES INTERNATIONAL HANDBOOK
INTRODUCTION
WELCOME LETTER FROM MFI FOUNDER
Dear MFI Member,
Maquis Forces International (MFI) is an alliance of Maquis clubs and individuals around the world for the purpose of the free exchange of ideas, information, and friendship. Like our fictional counterparts on Star Trek® who went renegade from Starfleet, most of our membership left established fandom organizations in search of a better banner to fly under. Our chapters left such organizations feeling dissatisfied and not all together comfortable with the politics and infighting that plague many fan organizations. MFI is much different. Being Maquis gives us the freedom to act and play as we choose without an organization dictating how we run our chapters and eliminates the need for politics. MFI is a breed apart from the standard cookie cutter Star Trek® organization in that we are here for fellowship and fun rather than politics and money. This handbook has been prepared to familiarize yourself with the largest Maquis oriented Star Trek organization on the planet, Maquis Forces International.
Our organization is made up of a Coordinator Council, the cornerstone for an alliance of decentralized chapters across the world. The Council oversees the Zone Coordinators, who in turn oversee the individual chapters. Although this may seem like a "chain of command", the Council and the Zone Coordinators are merely for guidance and cohesion. Chapters can take what they desire or nothing at all from them. Minimal requirements for chapters are that they stay true to the standards of conduct set by the membership and to have fun being Maquis. Like the "real" Maquis on Star Trek®, Maquis chapters are independent of each other, but bound by a common goal. Ours is not as lofty as the freedom of the colonies of the Demilitarized Zone, ours is more down to earth, literally. Our goal is to have fun and the spreading of fellowship and friendship to all Maquis and other Star Trek® fan clubs.
Being a member of MFI means that you want to have more fun than all else. This handbook has been formatted to better your fun by explaining what it means to be in MFI and the responsibilities and benefits of membership. So peruse this handbook at your leisure and hopefully by the end the picture of what an MFI member is will be much more clearer and we can do what all fans truly want, TO HAVE FUN.
FADM Gary Davis
Maquis Forces International Founder
CHAPTER ONE - YOU AND MFI
INTRODUCTION
Welcome to the Maquis Forces International (MFI). This club is dedicated to the pursuit of the Star Trek hobby through individual and family activities. Through our local and virtual (electronic and correspondence) chapters we seek to enjoy our hobby through in a variety of activities from exchanging Trek information with fellow members, to writing Trek stories talking about Trek and club matters via the internet, attending our annual conference, and interacting with other Trek fan.
If you are a new member, or even perhaps a renewing member, you may have questions on how this organization operates, who is in charge, where you go for information and assistance, and how can you have FUN here? This handbook along with the MFI Constitution provides answers to these questions. Let's answer these nagging questions now so you can finish reading your membership materials and get out there and have some FUN!
You probably joined MFI in one of three ways: you picked up an application at either a Trek convention or other activity, you got MFI's address via the website or a fan directory, or you heard about us by word of mouth. You may or may not have gotten additional information about MFI. Maybe the display or the appearance of the application appealed to you so you decided to join. Other than what is on the application you really don't know very much about MFI. Now that you have filled out the official application, got have your name listed on the website and received this handbook you are probably wondering what you have gotten yourself into.
Welcome to the Maquis Forces International (MFI). This club is dedicated to the pursuit of the Star Trek hobby through individual and family activities. Through our local and virtual (electronic and correspondence) chapters we seek to enjoy our hobby through in a variety of activities from exchanging Trek information with fellow members, to writing Trek stories talking about Trek and club matters via the internet, attending our annual conference, and interacting with other Trek fan.
If you are a new member, or even perhaps a renewing member, you may have questions on how this organization operates, who is in charge, where you go for information and assistance, and how can you have FUN here? This handbook along with the MFI Constitution provides answers to these questions. Let's answer these nagging questions now so you can finish reading your membership materials and get out there and have some FUN!
You probably joined MFI in one of three ways: you picked up an application at either a Trek convention or other activity, you got MFI's address via the website or a fan directory, or you heard about us by word of mouth. You may or may not have gotten additional information about MFI. Maybe the display or the appearance of the application appealed to you so you decided to join. Other than what is on the application you really don't know very much about MFI. Now that you have filled out the official application, got have your name listed on the website and received this handbook you are probably wondering what you have gotten yourself into.
MEMBERSHIP OPTIONS
Membership in MFI is simple, you are a part of the largest Maquis fan club on the planet, privy to access to the members’ site, listserv, and any an all material published by MFI HQ for as long as you remain a member. Membership will mean different things to different people. Involvement in the international organization can be as simple as filling out a membership application and being listed on the web site, or actively participating in the decision-making that shapes MFI as a whole. As long as members remain true to the concept of IDIC and the foundation of understanding and tolerance of individuals and their rights and opinions, they are members of MFI.
MEMBERSHIP RIGHTS DUTIES, AND RESPONSIBILITIES
When you joined MFI you received certain rights. You now have the RIGHT TO:
- 1. Select and change your membership option at any time.
- 2. Join the chapter of your choice.
- 3. Transfer from one chapter to another at any time.
- 4. Chose the amount of your MFI participation at any organizational level.
- 5. Participate in any MFI program, department, or activity.
- 6. Be a part of the voting processes in Chapter (if available), Zone, and International Elections.
- 7. Apply or run for any Zone and International positions (appointed or elected) for which you are qualified.
- 8. Receive prompt and courteous responses to your inquires, suggestions, and comments from any officer at any administrative level of MFI.
- 9. You may bring any problem, concern, or suggestion to the Coordinator Council and staff, Zone Coordinator, Chapter Chairperson and
officers at any time to seek timely satisfaction and resolution.
- 10.. Voice your opinion at any MFI organizational level without fear of reprisal.
- 11. Hear, question, and investigate all sides of an issue being discussed and debated within MFI.
- 12. Talk with any MFI member about any MFI activity, program, or policy by any communication means within the bounds of common decency and propriety.
- 13. Due process.
- 14. Appeal any judgmental or disciplinary actions within MFI.
- 15. Be informed of all MFI policies in a timely manner.
- 16. Terminate your membership at any time.
- 17. Join or affiliate with any other fan clubs.
- 18. HAVE FUN AND ENJOY YOUR TREK HOBBY TO THE FULLEST OF YOUR ABILITY!!!
With your membership comes certain duties and responsibilities:
- 1. To practice the concept of IDIC (Infinite Diversity in Infinite Combinations) at all times.
- 2. Do not lie, cheat, steal or tolerate those who would.
- 3. To live up to the standards set by your chapter, zone, and MFI.
- 4. To seek the truth, whatever and wherever it may be.
- 5. To respect and listen to other opinions.
- 6. To carry out your duties of your position whether it be as a general member and/or club, zone, or international officer to the best of your ability.
- 7. To offer only constructive criticism and feedback.
- 8. To not participate in character assassination of another.
- 9. To be unbiased in judgmental matters.
- 10. To help solve problems not create them.
- 11. To respect the rights of all MFI members.
- 12. To take and accept responsibility for your actions, feelings, beliefs, and attitudes.
RANK AND ADVANCEMENT WITHIN MFI
Now that we have some of the basic ideas of membership out of the way, a common question comes quickly to mind: How do I get promoted? Don't be ashamed of asking this question. All of us like some type of promotion.
Promotion involves participation within and contributions to MFI. What you put into your membership is what you will get out of it. If you participate you are going to get promoted. It is as simple as that. Members are encouraged to participate at the chapter, zone, and international levels. All new members begin at the rank given by their respective CO’s. If you join a chapter your initial rank and promotion will then be determined by the promotion policy of that chapter. If you are transferring from another Star Trek fan club, MFI will accept whatever rank you held in that organization, providing you provide MFI with the proper documentation. This documentation can be a letter from your previous chapter or organizational officer or a promotion certificate from your previous chapter or club. If you wish to transfer your rank then send the documentation with your application so it can be entered in our central membership database. If you are of flag rank, your rank must be reviewed and approved by the Coordinator Council. Applications under our Collateral Flag Rank Conversion policy will only be accepted after the member has been in MFI for a minimum of six months and has completed both the New Member Exam and the Leadership Development Exam. Appendix D contains the MFI rank structure.
Your chapter commanding officer, president, or chairperson is responsible for establishing your chapter's promotion policy for the ranks of Commander/Lieutenant Colonel and below. Some chapters may have promotion point guidelines where you earn a required number of points for promotion. Other chapters may use promotion boards where each member's contributions are discussed and a vote is taken whether or not to promote the member. Still other chapters might use a combination of the two. Your chapter chairperson will have more details on club promotions. If he doesn't tell you, then ask. The rank of Captain/Colonel may be awarded in one of three ways:
- 1. It may be awarded by a recommendation of a Coordinator Council Member to Commanders/Lt. Colonels who have earned it. This can be for meritorious promotions or accepting positions within the International organization that demands such a rank
- 2. Upon becoming President of an operational (chartered) chapter.
- 3. Chapter Chairpersons of flag/general officer rank may promote members of their chapter to the rank of Captain/Colonel.
Any member can nominate a person for promotion to these ranks. To nominate a member to the rank of Captain/Colonel and above you must submit promotion nomination information to the Promotion Board Chairman who is the Chief of Staff. Appendix E contains further information on the MFI promotion policy and nomination procedures.
A few words are needed about promotions. First of all you don't have to hold a high office in MFI to be promoted to Captain or the flag ranks. There are not that many positions to go around. There are hard working and dedicated members at all levels within MFI who are worthy of promotion. Just because you work hard at the chapter level doesn't mean that you don't have a chance to get promoted to the ranks above Commander/Lt. Colonel.
Second, these ranks are fictitious and do not mean that one member is superior to another and must NEVER be used to belittle or demean a member. Such things as hazing, pulling rank, and expecting exclusive privileges can get you in trouble quickly in MFI whether you are an Admiral, a Crewman or a Technician. These ranks are for FUN and are only used to give a Trek feel to the organization. They are not real. You don't get any benefits from having them.
Third, ranks are awarded for service and responsibility within MFI and not for political favors.
Lastly, authority is sometimes confused with rank. These are two different ideas. Rank is fictitious, while authority is real. The authority of the Coordinator Council, Zone Coordinators, and Chapter Chairpersons is given to them in order to do their administrative and management jobs within MFI. They must be able to make policies and guidelines in order for MFI to function. This authority makes the FUN possible. The watchword for both rank and authority is SERVICE.
AWARDS
The MFI awards program is another way of recognizing a job well done by a member. Let's face it, you like to have your ego stroked every now and then. Awards do just that. These awards may be certificates of achievement, commendations, ribbons, or plaques. Each chapter and zone is encouraged to set up some type of recognition program for its members. At the international level, awards are given to members and chapters for service to the organization, leadership, heroic acts, community service, and outstanding projects.
MEMBERSHIP MATERIALS
COMMUNICATIONS
MFI believes that an informed and communicating membership is an active and caring membership. MFI wants you to know what is going on and to participate in it's many discussions. Members are encouraged to ask questions, make inquires, and share opinions with follow members and MFI officials. In MFI, communication is a two-way street. You talk and MFI officials will listen and try to help you.
MFI does have other some specialized communications. These are the international newsletter, the public and special interest listservs, ICQ, Yahoo Messenger, MSN Messenger, and the IRC Chat Room
The International Newsletter – This is the "official" written publication of MFI. You will read about various activities and events within MFI such as chapter social events, projects, and community service functions. You might even get some ideas of activities that you might want to suggest to your chapter to do. The BADLANDS spreads the fun around. You will also see articles about Star Trek. After all MFI is a Star Trek fan club. Finally, there is business to be discussed. This is where positions are advertised, new services are revealed, and MFI policies are announced. If you like to write, draw, take pictures or know of something Trek related that you would like to share with your fellow members then submit articles, artwork, and pictures.
Your contribution will make the Chief of Communications' day. He may not be able to promote you, but he can put YOUR name in print. A word to all of you budding reporters… in no way does "The BADLANDS" or any other MFI publication intend to encroach or infringe upon any patent, trademark, or copyright held by Viacom Inc., Paramount Pictures, Lincoln Enterprises or the Estate of Gene Roddenberry. All rights are reserved to these organizations and entities. If you are not sure about something you want to write about, photograph, or draw then ask our Chief of Communications for submission guidelines.
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Force Admiral Selek of Vulcan (Gary Davis)
CHAPTER TWO -- MFI AS AN ORGANIZATION
INTRODUCTION
Now that we have discussed your membership within MFI, let's look at how your fan club is organized. Earlier we mentioned that MFI's major division is the Coordinator Council (CC). The function of the CC shall be to create and enforce policies, coordinate the various departments assigned within, and serve as advisors to chapters and members alike. The CC shall be the final authority in the interpretation of the Constitution and of the policies and procedures of the organization. The CC is charged with setting the over-all policy for the organization and management of the organization. Policies and issues voted on by the CC require a three-fourths (3/4) vote for passage of those members voting. All votes must have at least a quorum present to vote on any polices or issues involving MFI. The CC has no authority over individual chapters beyond the enforcement of MFI policies and violation of said policies. The internal affairs of said chapters are their own in regard to make up, involvement in MFI and other organizations, activities, and promotions up to the rank of said chapter chairperson.
THE COORDINATOR COUNCIL
- a. MFI International Coordinator/Force Admiral (IC/FADM) - President). The IC is the head of the CC is in charge of all meetings of the CC, unless absent or delegated. The IC is charged with ensuring that all information pertaining to organization policy changes is delivered to the CC members in a timely and reasonable fashion and shall serve as a reference for all CC members and organization members. The IC of the CC is by virtue the Commander and upon taking office, the Flag of the Force is transferred to the ship upon which the IC is a member. The IC is the President of the organization, and is responsible in every way for everything that occurs. The IC presides over the entire organization and is responsible for the well being of everyone connected with the organization.
- b. Vice International Coordinator (VIC - Vice President). The VIC is the second in command of MFI and shall preside over the CC in the IC’s absence. The VIC is responsible for the smooth operation of the organization as a whole, including the commissioning and decommissioning of new and special interest departments. The Vice International Coordinator will be responsible for all issue resolutions beyond the purview of the Chief of Staff. The VIC is to represent the ideas of the IC to the organization and to the CC; and shall represent the club as a whole to the international community and to other fan clubs.
- c. Chief of Staff (COS) is the third in the chain of command of the organization and serves as the IC, in the absence of the IC and the VIC. The COS serves as an advisor to the IC and VIC and represents the views of the organization to the CC. The COS also coordinates the various departments of MFI and oversees their smooth operation through liaison with the CC, Department Heads and the Vice International Coordinator
- d. Chief of Operations (COO): Coordinates and oversees force activities and serves as the primary liaison with the Naval chapters through the Zone Coordinators and matters pertaining to operational Naval forces within MFI. Coordinates the various departments within their purview and oversees their smooth operation through liaison with the department heads and the COS.
- e. Chief of Communications (COC): Overall responsible for communications within the organization. Provides a Moderator for the MFI Mail Listserv, shall announce vacancies of positions in MFI, serve as liaison with chapter Comm Officers, and will head the team which publishes the newsletter and coordinates the inputs from the chapters for addition to the publication.
- f. Chief of Computer Operations (COCO): Coordinates and maintains all electronic data and services employed by Maquis Forces International. The COCO is responsible for the support, maintenance and updating of the Maquis Forces International website.
- g. Academy Commandant (ACAD): Coordinates and maintains the Maquis Academy web pages. Will oversee all the Deans of the various colleges and the administering of academy courses, the grading, and assignment of pass/fail certificates.
ZONE COORDINATORS (ZC)
To serve as the official representative of their respective Zone and as such, they represent the will of their Zone, their chapters, and their members to the CC and vice versa. To liaison between the COO and the chapters assigned within their geographical area. ZC's are charged with apprising the COO and the CC of any changes in chapter status, contact information, or activities such as conventions or Zone Conferences. Zone Coordinators are required to submit Monthly Zone Reports to the MFI COO.
MFI VOTE OF CONFIDENCE AND ELECTIONS
Every two years MFI conducts a Vote of Confidence. If the current leadership maintains the confidence of the membership, that IC and his Council stay in power. In the event that the membership loses confidence in the IC, or he decides he desires to step down or retire, general elections will be held.
Appendix C discusses the elective process in greater detail. Zone Elections are held according to election procedures set up by each zone. Zones determine their own candidate qualifications, nomination process, election procedures, and length of term of office for their Zone Coordinator. Appendix C also discusses Zone Elections. It is very important that you as a member of MFI, VOTE in these elections. This is one way that your voice can be heard on how MFI should be governed. Be sure to exercise this privilege whenever you can. It is your right. You also have the opportunity to participate in the governing levels of MFI by becoming a candidate for office.
CHAPTERS: A chapter is defined as being the local fan club providing structure for individual members. The individual chapter is the focus of all activities for MFI. What this document and the organization itself is centered on is the Chapter and members which comprise it. Chapters are charged with maintaining contact with the organization be it with their Zone Coordinator, or the CC itself. They provide a forum for members to congregate, participate in activities, provide presence within MFI, and a sense of team.
Now that we have discussed the MFI organization and had a brief overview of the chapter’s focus within MFI, let's discuss the HEART of our organization, the Chapter, in greater detail
CHAPTER 3 -- MFI CHAPTERS
INTRODUCTION
CHAPTER CATEGORIES
Chapters fall into two broad categories: Meeting chapters and Online chapters. Let's examine both so you can decide what type of chapter you would like to belong to.
- Meeting Chapters - Meeting chapters are the most common and are made up of members who live relatively close to one another. They are able to gather on a regular basis to have meetings and other activities. Often they will have a structured business meeting where they plan social and/or community service activities. They enjoy doing things together. The majority of MFI chapters are this type of chapter. In most cases meeting chapters report to the Zone Coordinator of the Zone in which they are physically located. For further information about meeting chapters contact the Chief of Operations.
- Online Chapters - These chapters are either electronic or correspondence chapters and are designed for members who either do not live close to a meeting chapter or who just enjoy writing. Sometimes these chapters have international members. Online chapters may write fictional collective or individual stories about their chapter's adventures set in the Trek universe. They like to produce newsletters and correspond with each other on a regular basis. Club business is conducted through postal mail and e-mail. Online chapters may be electronic, postal mail, or a combination of the two. These chapters have their own Zone Coordinator to whom they report their activities. As a matter of courtesy they also send a report to the Zone Coordinator of the Zone in which the commanding officer or president is physically located. For further information on these types of chapters contact the Zone VR Coordinator.
Perhaps you might be interested in forming a chapter. The procedures will be explained to you later in this chapter.
Chapter Fictional Fleet Designations. To give MFI a more Trek feel, chapters like to pretend that they are either Federation vessels, installations, or specialized units. They will name themselves after vessels, starbases, and space stations seen in the Star Trek series, or they will create their own names. After all, we've gotten to see only a small portion of the Trek universe so there is much room for creativity. These chapters have an almost unlimited choice of names and chapter types with a few exceptions that are reserved exclusively for MFI use.
Force vessels are by far the most numerous within MFI. Some chapters are dreadnoughts, frigates, science vessels, scouts, freighters, tugs, command and control vessels, battleships, and exploratory cruisers. Chapters choose designs from the Star Trek series or in some cases they will design their own.
With the popularity of Star Trek: Deep Space Nine and Voyager, some chapters have decided to become starbases, space stations, shipyards, communications stations, research facilities, and even embassies and consulates. Chapters use designs from the series or they will design their own installations.
MFI HQ will be glad to assist any chapter in selecting and submitting vessel and installation designs. Remember that Star Trek and Star Trek related designs and configurations are, for the most part, copyrighted and fully protected properties of Paramount Pictures Corporation, Viacom, Inc., Lincoln Enterprises, Inc., and/or the estate of Gene Roddenberry. MFI can not assume any responsibility for chapters who violate copyright, trademark, and patent laws.
With the addition of the various divisions of MFI, chapters can also choose Marine designations, as well as further specialized designations such as the Special Forces Teams. We have also started adding branches for those members that would like to carry the persona of different aliens. MFI has a Klingon branch where chapters and members can carry their personas from their Klingon fan clubs into MFI.
Designation Limitations. It was mentioned earlier that some designations have limited use. The Maquis Headquarters is fictional and is assumed to be located in the Badlands as mentioned in the Star Trek: Deep Space Nine. MFI Headquarters is for use by the whole Coordinator Council. The MFI Flagship is the chapter designated by the IC as his/her flagship. Command Vessel/Installation is reserved for use by the primary chapter of individual Council members. Zone Starbase is the designation used by each Zone Coordinator for his zone headquarters. For the purposes of identification in MFI, chapters will carry a designation, which identifies them as a unit of MFI. Ships (Starships, Runabouts, etc) and Stations (Space Stations, Outposts, etc) will carry the designation of MFS (Maquis Forces Ship or Station), MFS-M (Maquis Forces Ship or Station (Marine)), MNAS (Maquis Naval Air Station), RN (Runabout) or MarDet (Marine Detachment) Use of USS, IKV, etc, which are used to identify chapters in other organizations are not suggested identification for MFI chapters for the use of identifying said chapters in official MFI reports, websites, etc. Alternative designations as proposed by the chapter chairperson can be routed through their Zone Coordinator for approval from the CC.
CHAPTER CONSTRUCTION PROGRAM
How Can I Form a Chapter? You may have shopped around your local area and found that there is no local chapter near you or the local chapter does not meet your fan needs, or does not meet at a convenient day, or place. You decide you don't want to join an online chapter so you begin to think about maybe forming your own chapter. The MFI Chapter Construction Program assists members in forming their own chapters. It will also help them in recruiting new members, motivating existing members to participate more in chapter activities and most important of all, to HAVE FUN in the shortest period of time with the least possible work involved. Let's look at the program and see how it works.
The Chapter construction program is made up of two parts. The first part is for chapters that are just beginning and the second part is for already existing chapters that are either transferring from another Trek fan organization or are independent chapters seeking membership with MFI.
New Chapter Formation. Let's say that you are beginning from scratch and are forming a new chapter. You and a couple of your friends have talked it over and you have decided to try the idea to see if you can do it and if it will work. You will go through three phases: Formation, Construction, and finally Operational.
Formation Phase. You may be part of a previous existing chapter who wishes to form a separate chapter or you may be starting out all alone. During this phase chapters express their intention of becoming a full chapter at a later date but they are not sure if they can actually carry the project through. This is the phase to see if you and your friends have what it takes to be MFI chapter.
Formation Chapters operate with the assistance of a support chapter, which monitors its progress and assists and offers guidance where and when needed. This support chapter can be a local chapter close to you, an online chapter that you seek assistance from, or even the MFI flagship herself and the Coordinator Council. Next you must get together and decide on a name. After all MFI wants to be able to call you by a personalized name rather than just a number. Now you need to register your name. You will then need to fill out an application on the MFI website and fill in the chapter information such as city of charter and how many members you have. Upon MFI HQ receiving your application, you are officially recognized as a newly formed chapter in MFI and placed in the Academy Squadron.
Construction Phase. When your application has been received by the Application Department, your contact page will be formatted with the details of your. The required information for the contact page is the following:
- 1. City of Charter
- 2. Name of Chapter
- 3. CO’s Name
- 4. CO’s Email Address
- 5. XO’s Name
- 6. XO’s Email Address
- 7. Chapter Mailing Address
- 8. Website (if applicable)
1. New Member Exam (LDS 101) | All members of chapter | |
2. Leadership Development Exam | (LDS 201) CO and XO only | |
3. Three months of monthly reports | Use Quarterly Report Form | |
4. Branch Specific Courses | Marines, SpecFor, KTF | |
5. Subscribing to the Maquis Listserv | Chapter Chairperson or Chapter Designee |
Operational Phase. The waiting period is finally up and your chapter is ready to be commissioned as a fully operational chartered MFI chapter. Upon completion of the above requirements the Commanding Officer sends a request to the Academy Commandant for graduation to the Resistance Force or their respective Department. Upon approval, the chapter will be placed on the rolls of their respective Zone or Department and they will become full-fledged chapters in MFI.
Should a chapter not be approved for any type of upgrade, that chapter may appeal the action to the International Coordinator with documentation and justification for approval. The Coordinator Council will then make the decision to upgrade or not upgrade the chapter. Should a chapter be denied upgrade at any level, the chapter may resubmit their request one month after the denial. The chapter will be provided with an explanation of why their upgrade request was denied and recommendations to help them obtain upgrade. The Zone Coordinator and the Support Chapter will also be informed of the denial action.
EXISTING CHAPTER COMMISSIONING
Evaluation Phase. Maybe you are a member of an already existing Star Trek Club whether it be independent or a part of MFI. What does your club do to become part of MFI's Phoenix Fleet? Your chapter would be considered an existing chapter. Existing chapters are chapters who are transferring to MFI from another organization, are independent, or are seeking dual affiliation with MFI. Chapters seeking this option are guaranteed recognition of all previously held rank, awards, and schools attended. They will retain their previous vessel/installation name and designation. If duplication of chapter name and number occurs within MFI due to dual affiliations, or chapters joining MFI from other organizations, a Roman Numeral suffix will be added at the end of the chapter name of the chapter affiliating or joining MFI, for example MFS Star Empire II/NCC-2116.
CHAPTER STATUS
Your MFI Chapter may fall into one of five categories. These are Under Construction, Operational, Dry Docked, and Decommissioned.
- Under Construction. If your chapter is designated as "Under Construction" it means that the chapter is preparing to become a fully chartered MFI chapter. This is a time for building for the chapter. The chapter is concentrating on building up its membership, playing and participating in activities, organizing its command structure, having fun, and taking advantage of MFI membership services. This is a "training period" for the new chapter.
- Operational. If you belong to an operational chapter, you are the part of a fully chartered group. Your Chapter has met all MFI requirements to obtain a charter of commission. Your chapter has organized activities such as community service, social functions, and Trek events. Your chapter has proven to MFI that it can have "Fun."
- Dry Dock. Sometimes chapters have problems such as recruiting, member retention, or are such suffering from "burn out" and need some assistance in maintaining MFI minimum chapter standards. Rather than letting the chapter just fade away MFI HQ offers assistance. This temporary "Let me Help" Program is called "Dry Dock." It permits a chapter to take a breather and to re-concentrate its efforts on becoming an active and dynamic chapter. For a period from 60 - 120 days the Chief of Operations, the appropriate Zone Coordinator, and a volunteer support ship to regain fully operational status as soon as possible and start having FUN again assist the chapter. Often this assistance may consist of new and different meeting ideas, officer training, multi-chapter events, and recruiting assistance. A chapter chairperson may request Dry Dock Status by contacting his Zone Coordinator. The Zone Coordinator will then contact the Chief of Operations, who will place the chapter in Dry Dock. The Chief of Operations may place a chapter in Dry Dock status after notification of the chapter chairperson and appropriate Zone Coordinator.
Being in Dry Dock is not a disgrace. A chapter in Dry Dock is not branded as a "bad chapter" but rather a chapter who needs some help and a big group hug. This is what MFI HQ is here for -- to give that hug. When the chapter and the support ship both feel that the chapter is ready to come out of dry dock status they will send an email showing that all minimum MFI requirements have been met and send it to the Zone Coordinator. The Zone Coordinator will endorse it and forward it to the Chief of Operations. The Chief of Operations will then return the chapter to operational status.
- Decommissioned. We must face it that sometimes chapters fail. They may have lost interest, members may have moved away or on to other things in their lives or they could not maintain the MFI minimum standards. These chapters are no longer considered active and are decommissioned. That is they are no longer considered to be a chartered chapter. Decommissioning is the absolute last step for a chapter who is having problems maintaining MFI minimum standards. It is NOT a means of discipline for a "Problem Chapter." The Chief of Operations has the authority to decommission chapters upon the recommendation of the Zone Coordinator, the support ship (if required), and the chapter commanding officer. All chapters are afforded the opportunity to go into Dry Dock status before decommissioning procedures are started. MFI does not involuntarily decommission a chapter.
If you have any questions concerning your chapter's status, contact your chapter chairperson further details.
By now you have read about your membership, the overall organization, and the role of the chapter within MFI. At this point you are ready to exercise your membership privileges. But wait! Don't quit now. There is one more item that you should know about. Sometimes during your MFI career you may want to ask a question or have a problem. Who should you go to for assistance? The next chapter will help chart you way to a speedy answer to your inquiry or a solution to your problem.
CHAPTER 4 – BRANCHES
INTRODUCTION
- NAVAL. Our Naval Forces are comprised of ships that were liberated or appropriated from major star faring powers such as Starfleet and the Klingon and Romulan Empire. Other ships have been constructed by the Maquis themselves in a secret Badlands Drydock. Our Naval Forces support the other three, providing defense, support, and transportation for the fulfillment of their missions.
[Vitute Et Probitate] we are an honorable addition to Maquis Forces International.
- SPECIAL FORCES. Two Divisions fill the Special Forces Department (SpecForc). The Special Operations Command (SOC) and the Special Security Division (SSD). When the personal touch is necessary for a mission, the SOC is called in. These Operatives may work individually or form into teams, and always operate in secret. Utilizing the very latest in technology including temporal starships, these Operatives protect the interests of the Maquis from attacks by other covert agencies. In addition, the SOC is responsible for obtaining new information and new technologies by any means possible, while preventing any developing Maquis technology from falling into outside hands. The SSD investigates and reports on any high crimes against the Maquis, or crimes committed by Maquis personnel. They investigate and decisively dispatch any threat, whether internally or externally to the high level security of the Maquis Forces and the Council. SSD Agents are also directly responsible for the security and safety of the Coordinator Council and other High ranking Maquis officers. Using conventional or unconventional methods, they exploit and eliminate any intelligence gathering attempts of enemy forces on Maquis resources or personnel.
- CHAIN OF COMMAND (COC)
NAVAL
ORGANIZATION.
From the smallest Naval unit to the largest, the order of units is individual Operative/Agent, Listening Post, Shuttlecraft/Runabout, and Starship/Starbase. All of these units are organized into Geographical Zones. There are no groupings of units, as it is assumed that like our fictional Maquis brothers, we operate independently and alone. Designations for Naval Force chapters are as follows:
MFS – Maquis Forces Ship/Station, LP – Listening Post, or RN - Runabout
- STARSHIP/STARBASE. A full-fledged Star Trek club is granted this designation no matter the size. They can either be a chapter that is already established, or one that is just forming.
- CHIEF OF NAVAL OPERATIONS (CNO). Coordinates and oversees force activities and serves as the primary liaison with the Naval chapters through the Zone Coordinators and matters pertaining to operational Naval forces within MFI. Coordinates the various departments within their purview and oversees their smooth operation through liaison with the department heads and the COS
MARINES
ORGANIZATION
From the smallest Maquis Forces Marine Corps (MFMC) unit to the largest, the order of units is individual Marine, Company, Battalion, Brigade and Division. Designations for Marine chapters/units are as follows:
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MFS-M – Maquis Forces Ship/Station (Marine), MarDet – Marine Detachment Company
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MFMC COUNCIL The MFMC Council assists the Commandant of the Marines in the administration of the MFMC. Below are listed the sections and a brief description of their duties.
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COMMANDANT. Reports to the MFI Chief of Staff, the Commandant is the top of the MFMC Chain Of Command (COC). He is responsible for the Corps as a whole, and his duties include: Acting as liaison between Maquis Forces and the Corps; approving/disapproving recommendations of the MFMC General Staff; working with MFI Zone Coordinators in appointing Marine Liaison Officers in each Zone; appointing all members of the General Staff; forwarding to the MFI Coordinator Council his own recommendations for promotion of MFMC personnel to the rank of Brigadier General and above; and reporting to Maquis Forces International, through its various publications what is happening in the Corps.
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SERGEANT MAJOR OF THE MFMC. The top Non-Com Advisor to the Commandant. Is responsible for acting as an advocate for enlisted members of the MFMC, developing the NCO chain of support by recruiting and retaining NCO’s, advising the Commandant and the MFMC Council in regards to NCO and enlisted members needs and views.
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DEPUTY COMMANDANT. Is the Commandant’s right hand. The DC is the second in command of the MFMC and shall preside over the MFMC Council in the CMC’s absence. The DC is responsible for the smooth operation of the organization as a whole, including assisting in the administration of special marine programs. The Deputy Commandant is to represent the club as a whole to the international community and to other fan clubs. The Deputy Commandant shall properly assistant the Commandant, general staff, and members at large.
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CHIEF OF MARINE OPERATIONS. Third in Command of the MFMC the Chief of Marine Operations acts as a chief of staff and head of marine computer ops. This person will gather all reports of marines and marine activity and present it to the DC and CMC. They will also be responsible for the marine website and its condition. The leaders of special marine programs should report to this individual.
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CHIEF MARINE CHARITY FACILITATOR. An important sub office of the Chief of Marine Operations. Is responsible bringing to the attention of the MFMC members or other interested parties, information regarding charity opportunities. to advise interested parties on the most efficient methods to go about their charity event and also advise as to forms of fund raising. To assist interested units in locating information regarding any local laws or policies regarding their event. Will also insure that the news of the event is broadcast. Advise as to forms of charity events.
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INDIVIDUAL MARINE: ACTIVE DUTY VS. RESERVES. The foundation of the entire MFMC is the individual marine. Members of the MFMC fall into one of two general categories as individual marines: Active Duty or Reservist. An Active Duty Marine participates in MFI only as a Marine and they are known solely by their marine rank. A Reservist is a sometimes marine. They sometimes use a marine rank and uniform. They could participate in their marine unit as a marine but be naval officer otherwise. Below you will find an explanation of each echelon of the Marine Chain of Command.
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MARINE DETACHMENT (MarDet) COMPANY. The basic unit, or Company, in the MFMC is the Unit; this is equal to a chapter. In the case of an all-marine unit this can be a ship, a station, fighter squadron, etc. In an all-marine unit the commanding and executive officers may double as the Marine Officer in Charge and Deputy Marine OIC respectively or appoint others. In a marine unit on board a non-marine vessel the marine company is commanding by the Marine OIC and DMOIC who in turn report to the Commanding Officer. This second possible is called a marine unit on a naval vessel and a Marine Unit is an MFI Chapter that is entirely or named to be Marine. Marine Units use the Ship or Station Designation of MFS-M.
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DIVISIONS (DIVS). Above the Brigade level, there are divisions, divisions are combinations of Brigades and provide another level of Administrative Control and unit assistance. The final part of this brief orientation (for more info please see our site www.maquis.com/marines/) will be our Special Marine Programs. Recon,
- SPECIAL PROGRAMS. Within the MFMC, there are special programs and specialized areas of expertise in which Marines can participate. Please keep in mind these are in addition to the usual jobs you can choose, use your imagination! We are always adding more, if you suggest and we add you may be the chief of a new section!
- RECON. Recon is the most versatile of the Marine Programs. Recon is the closest assignment the MFMC has to a commando type unit. Due to its flexibility, its Area of Responsibility is varied. It has four main AOR’s, by no means is this list exhaustive. Its first AOR is VIP escort and protection; at request Recon members may responsible for assisting and protecting their assigned dignitary at various events. Second is Honor Guard Detail, at request for weddings of MFI personnel or other such events where an Honor Guard would be appropriate. Third is General Reconnaissance, this would be recon for information, an event layout, items, and other such proper assignments. The Fourth AOR is Convention Security; this would be a properly trained force of personnel to act as and run security at any and all Fan Conventions. Its organization is as follows, Recon Unit (either whole or one divided into different cells), Recon Chief of Brigade, Recon Chief of Division, and Deputy Officer in Charge of Recon.
- MAQUIS MARINE AIR CORPS. The Maquis Marine Air Corps takes its form from the ‘Flying Leathernecks’ of World War II on earth. These Flying Leathernecks come from a long and honored tradition of marine pilots. Their AOR is act as the air support for any and all marine units and operations, and to do the same for other MFI units at request. And it may also act independently on any assignment with approval of the Maquis Marine Air Marshall. Its organization is as follows, Squadron (Unit) (either whole or one divided into different cells), Senior Air Officer of the Brigade, Air Boss of the Division, Deputy Air Marshall, and Air Marshall. *note if this is not currently offered, you are welcomed to apply to have it reopened.
- CHAPLAIN/COUNSELOR PROGRAM. All information in this section is literary property of David House as paraphrased from MFMC chaplain/counselor guide. What Does a Chaplain/counselor for a Star Trek club do? This will vary according to the ship on which He/She serves. The crew determines the amount of spiritual guidance and help they need. It is also common for the chaplain to perform duties that would be assigned a ship's counselor if there were not one available. Since the job they do overlaps so much. This means that the Chaplain will provide spiritual and other counseling services as needed. 90% or more of the time a chaplain is consulted the person asking for help needs more than anything a sympathetic ear.
SPECIAL FORCES COMMAND
ORGANIZATION (Currently being edited by BGen. Mark Zesewitz Director, SFC)
Operatives and Agents are drawn from both the Naval and Marine forces and maintain their standing within those structures. The identities of SFC Operatives are kept Secret, and Operatives are placed within the SSD or SOC Divisions until they are needed for a mission. Only the SFC Director, SOC Director, and the SSD Director know the identities of the Operatives. In some cases, entire teams are formed that can number enough to crew a ship. Special ships are held hidden for this purpose. The command element of Special Forces Command
includes a Director, Deputy Director, and SFC Liaison Officer.
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SSD and SOC Operatives that are not assigned to the Special Forces HQ are assigned, overtly or covertly as needed, to various ships within the Maquis and throughout the known quadrant.
SPECIAL FORCES COMMAND ORGANIZATION.
The Special Forces Command is comprised of both the Special Security Division and the Special Operations Command.
SPECIAL SECURITY DIVISION.
http://maquisforcesssd.homestead.com
The Special Security Division is based on the Star Trek novel Death's Angel written by Kathleen Sky. The Special Security Division was brought back to life in the recent Pocket Books Section-31 series. The SSD is in many ways identical to Section-31 in scope and nature. The mission of the SSD varies but it is usually always secretive. The Director of the SSD answers directly to the MFI Coordinator Council. The primary mission of the SSD is to monitor and ensure internal security within the MFI. This is accomplished using our agents as well as intelligence gathering through various channels within and outside the fleet. The SSD is a secret Maquis sanction that has be compared to the Romulan Tal Shiar or the former Cardassian Obsidian Order. The SSD, which has been operating independently throughout the existence of the Maquis, seeks out and identifies potential threats to the Maquis. Very few Maquis know who is an Agent or an Operative.
- Director, SSD. (DSSD) The Director is responsible for the effective overall operation of the Special Security Division. The Director's office is the final collection point for all Fleet intelligence, counter-intelligence, internal security, and external security matters. The Director reports to the MFI Chief of Operations.
- Deputy Director, SSD. (DDSSD) The Deputy Director is the assistant to the Director. This officer would assume command of the SSD in the absence of the Director. The DDSSD is privy to all the same information in which the Director sees in the event he/she must assume command. The Deputy Director reports to the Director.
- Operations Chief, SSD. (OC) The Operations Chief is responsible for the organization, coordination, and execution of all SSD missions. The Operations Chief reports to the Director.
- Intelligence Chief, SSD. (IC) The Intelligence Chief is responsible for the gathering, organization, and interpretation of all intelligence collected from all sources, both in the MFI and outside the MFI. The Intelligence Chief reports to the Director.
- Terrorism Analyst Officer, SSD. (TAO) The TAO is the analytic component of the Maquis Forces SSD Headquarters/Counterterrorism Center. TAO analysts concentrate on informing the Coordinator Council on such matters and supporting the SOC, Fleet, KTF, and MFMC by:
-Tracking terrorists and the activities of organizations that sponsor them, and assessing terrorist vulnerabilities by analyzing their ideology and goals, capabilities, associates, and locations.
-Analyzing universal terrorist threat information and patterns to provide warnings aimed at preventing terrorist attacks.
-Monitoring universal terrorism trends and patterns, including emerging and nontraditional terrorist groups, evolving terrorist threats or operational methods, and possible collusion between terrorist groups.
-Identifying, disrupting, and preventing quadrant financial transactions that support terrorist networks and operations.
The TAO reports directly to the Director, SSD.
- The Counterintelligence Center Analysis Officer, SSD. (CIC/AO) The CIC/AO identifies, monitors, and analyzes the efforts of foreign intelligence entities against Maquis persons, activities, and interests. CIC/AO analysts focus on two specific types of counterintelligence threats to Maquis internal and external security:
-Transnational threats, such as the counterintelligence aspect of terrorism or the threats posed by emerging or changing technologies to the Maquis Coordinator Council, intelligence operations, and Maquis traditional and non-traditional information systems.
Threats posed by foreign intelligence services and their activities.
The CIC/AO reports directly to the Director, SSD.
- The Information Operations Analyst, SSD. (IOA) The IOA evaluates foreign threats to SSD information and computer systems, particularly those that support critical infrastructures. We provide our analysis to the FAdm, his senior advisers, high-level officials on cyber issues in the Maquis Forces, and to senior private-sector officials responsible for operating critical infrastructures.
-IOA consider potential threats from state and nonstate actors and evaluate a wide array of information, including foreign intentions, plans, and capabilities.
- Chief Weapons Officer, SSD. (CWO) The Chief Weapons Officer is the focal point for all operations involving both the SSD Air Weapons Section, and the SSD Ground Weapons Section. The Chief Weapons Officer reports to the Director.
- Command Counselor/Advisor, SSD. (CC/A) The CC/A is the advisor to the Director. This officer gives both advice and technical opinions to the Director. In many ways, this officer is the second most important person in the entire Special Security Division.
SPECIAL OPERATIONS COMMAND.
http://sandbox.maquis.com/soc/
The SOC also falls under the Special Forces Command and is responsible for the execution of both covert and non-covert missions as directed by the Headquarters, SOC. These missions will primarily take place outside Maquis sphere of influence using both conventional and unconventional methods.
- Director, SOC.
- Deputy Director, SOC.
KLINGON TASK FORCE
ORGANIZATION
From the smallest Klingon Task Force (KTF) unit to the largest, the order of units is individual Klingon Warrior, ghom, mIch and wavwI’. Designations for Klingon chapters/units are as follows:
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MFS-K – Maquis Forces Ship/Station (Klingon), MFS-TF – Maquis Forces Ship/Station (Task Force), KlinDet – Klingon Detachment Company
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KTF HIGH COUNCIL . The KTF High Council assists the La’’a’ (Commandant) of the Marines in the administration of the KTF. Below are listed the sections and a brief description of their duties.
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RA'WI' (COMMANDER). Reports to the MFI Chief of Staff, the Ra'wI is the top of the KTF Chain Of Command (COC). He is responsible for the Task Force as a whole, and his duties include: Acting as liaison between Maquis Forces and the Task Force; approving/disapproving recommendations of the KTF General Staff; working with MFI Zone Coordinators in appointing Task Force Liaison Officers in each Zone; appointing all members of the General Staff; forwarding to the MFI Coordinator Council his own recommendations for promotion of Klingon personnel to the rank of Brigadier General and above; and reporting to Maquis Forces International, through its various publications what is happening in the Task Force.
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SUVWI’ PIN’A’ OF THE KTF. The top SuvwI’ Advisor to the Ra'wI. Is responsible for acting as an advocate for enlisted members of the KTF, developing the SuvwI’ chain of support by recruiting and retaining SuvwI’s, advising the Ra'wI and the KTF Council in regards to SuvwI’ and enlisted Warriors needs and views.
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BOQWI’ RA'WI' (DEPUTY COMMANDER). Is the Ra'wI’s right hand. The BoQwI’ Ra'wI is the second in command of the KTF and shall preside over the KTF Council in the Ra'wI’s absence. The BoQwI’ Ra'wI is responsible for the smooth operation of the organization as a whole, including assisting in the administration of special marine programs. The BoQwI’ Ra'wI is to represent the club as a whole to the international community and to other fan clubs. The BoQwI’ Ra'wI shall properly assistant the Ra'wI, general staff, and members at large.
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CHIEF OF TASK FORCE OPERATIONS. Third in Command of the KTF, the Chief of Task Force Operations acts as a chief of staff and head of task force computer ops. This person will gather all reports of Klingons and Task Force activity and present it to the BoQwI’ Ra'wI and Ra'wI. They will also be responsible for the marine website and its condition. The leaders of special Task Force missions should report to this individual.
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CHIEF CHARITY COORDINATOR. CCC is an important officer in the office of the Chief of Task Force Operations. CCC is responsible bringing to the attention of the KTF members or other interested parties, information regarding charity opportunities. to advise interested parties on the most efficient methods to go about their charity event and also advise as to forms of fund raising. They are to share all pertinent information with the Chief Marine Charity Facilitator of the MFIMC. They are also to assist interested units in locating information regarding any local laws or policies regarding their event. Will also insure that the news of the event is broadcast. Advise as to forms of charity events.
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INDIVIDUAL MARINE: ACTIVE DUTY VS. RESERVES. The foundation of the entire KTF is the individual Klingon. Members of the KTF fall into one of two general categories as individual warriors: Active Duty or Reservist. An Active Duty Marine participates in MFI only as a Klingon and they are known solely by their task force rank. A Reservist is a sometimes Klingon. They sometimes use a task force rank and uniform. They could participate in their Klingon ghom as a Klingon but be naval or marine officer otherwise. Below you will find an explanation of each echelon of the Task Force Chain of Command.
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KLINGON DETACHMENT (KlinDet) COMPANY. The basic unit, or Company, in the KTF is the ghom; this is equal to a chapter. In the case of an all-Klingon ghom this can be a ship, a station, fighter squadron, etc. In an all-Klingon ghom the commanding and executive officers may double as the ghom ra’wI’ (Commander) and ghom BoQwI’ (Deputy) respectively or appoint others. In a Klingon detachment on board a non-Klingon vessel the Klingon company is commanded by the GR (ghom ra’wI’) and GB (ghom BoQwI’) who in turn report to the Commanding Officer. This second possibility is called a Klingon detachment on a naval vessel and a Klingon ghom is an MFI Chapter that is entirely or named to be Klingon. Klingon ghom use the Ship or Station Designation of MFS-K or MFS-TF.
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wavwI’ (wavwI’). Above the mIch level, there are wavwI’, wavwI’ are combinations of mIchs and provide another level of Administrative Control and ghom assistance.
CHAPTER 5 -- HELP! I'VE GOT A PROBLEM!
INTRODUCTION
In any organization problems do occasionally arise and MFI is no different. The Coordinator Council, as a member service agency, is willing to listen to your problems concerning your MFI membership and services, Each MFI officer is dedicated to helping solve your problems as quickly as possible. Why? Because that problem may hamper you having FUN. MFI officers are volunteers and some times real life concerns do get in the way of their fun. If you have a problem contact the department first. If you don't receive a reply make a second attempt. If you still don't reply or are unsatisfied with your response to the problem then take it to the Coordinator Council member overseeing the department. If you still are not satisfied then contact the IC, who is the general manager of MFI. MFI does care about your problems and wants to help you successfully resolve them. After all having problems does hamper your FUN and MFI does not want that to happen. Let's look at some typical problems and who you can go to for help to solve them.
COMMUNICATING PROBLEMS
Communication is a very important aspect of any organization and MFI is no exception. It is easy during face to face communications to determine if you have the other member’s attention and if you are getting your point across. It may not be so easy to determine these things when you communicate via the internet. Since the majority of MFI’s member services are handled by Headquarters (HQ) and generally by email, it is important that you understand the best way to contact MFI HQ members. We have four methods of communication for the general member to utilize Private Email, Public Mailing List (listserv), Special Interest Lists (listservs), and chat programs such as MSN, ICQ, and Yahoo IM. Here is a breakdown of each.
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Private Email: MFI Headquarters is broken up into four tightly knit entities, which make up our upper and middle management. The Coordinator Council, the Administrative Council, the MFI Branch Heads, and the Zone Coordinators. All of these comprise our combined Maquis Advisors, which help upper management craft and present policies to the general membership. You can find the members of these various entities at the following websites:
Coordinator Council http://web.archive.org/web/20041030003147/http://www.maquis.com/council |
Administrative Council http://web.archive.org/web/20041030003147/http://www.maquis.com/admin_council.html |
MFI Branch Heads http://web.archive.org/web/20041030003147/http://www.maquis.com/sid.html |
Zone Coordinators http://web.archive.org/web/20041030003147/http://www.maquis.com/cellfinder/ |
If you have business with anyone of the above listed pages, send an email to their address. You can also carbon copy (CC) your email to your Zone Coordinator or Branch Head. If the topic of your email concerns your Zone Coordinator or Branch Head, feel free to CC the Chief of Staff to ensure that another Council member knows of your request. If you believe that a significant amount of time has passed (a day or two) and you have not received a reply, send an additional email to either the Chief of Staff (COS), or the Vice International Coordinator (VIC) to request assistance, noting that a message was sent to another Council member or Support Staff member without receiving a timely response from them.
If you have written to the Chief of Staff and a reasonable amount of time has passed, a day or two, forward the letter to the VIC. If again, a reasonable amount of time has passed and you do not hear from the VIC, contact your Zone Coordinator or a neighboring Zone Coordinator in the case that the email was pertaining to your Zone Coordinator and inform them of your difficulties in contacting HQ. It may be that you have a bad email address. Your Zone Coordinator should know how to contact the Chief of Operations or some other Council member.
In the case that your Zone Coordinator cannot contact ANY Coordinator Council member, they will post a listserv message requesting a Council Member contact them as soon as possible. This should alleviate any troubles in contacting MFI HQ.
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Pubic Mailing List (listserv): General inquiries and announcements to the membership can be directed to the MFI listserv. Subscribing to the listserv is one of the few requirements that MFI has. The purpose of the listserv is to maintain communication between the members of MFI. The list is not intended for the public-at-large, but for members only and should be limited to such material pertinent to MFI or Star Trek in general. Do not use it to advertise products or services unless they benefit the organization and do not use it for a public airing of grievances. Those are to be done one on one with individuals. Detailed instructions and information on the listserv is available at http://www.maquis.com/listserv.html.
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Interest Specified Lists (listservs): Occasionally MFI created a listserv which serves the need for a specific interest shared by a group of members or for a specific business related reason. Involvement in these lists is voluntary unless otherwise announced, such as a listserv for Zone Coordinators. Special interest listservs can be such things as a listserv for role-playing, fan fiction, specific MFI Branch discussions, etc. Creation and subscription info for these Interest Specific Lists will be posted on the Public Mailing List.
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ICQ/MSN/Yahoo Chat: Internet programs, which tell you who's online at all times. With them, you can chat, send messages and files, play games or just hang out with your fellow 'netters while still surfing the net. With these programs, you add members and friends and when they are online can discuss events, problems, ideas, and general conduct business in real time over the internet. Many issues can be worked on via chat as the person you need to deal with is at the other end of the computer at the time you are. Or you can send offline messages alerting your need to talk to them the next time they are online. MFI HQ is available with MSN or ICQ most of the day.
Utilizing the above means of communication, knowing the proper method and circumstance when to use them will alleviate your frustration in trying to get an answer to an inquiry or problem and allow you full enjoyment of being a member of the largest Maquis based fan club on the planet. If you have any suggestions, comments, or observations about the content of this protocol, feel free to contact MFI HQ with them.
CONCLUSION
You now have an idea of what MFI is and where you fit into it. You know how and where to locate the FUN in this organization. You are hereby ordered by the IC to put this booklet down and get out there and seek out the FUN of MFI!
APPENDIX 'A'
MFI ORGANIZATIONAL CHART
IC | (FADM) | ||||
\ | / | ||||
V | IC | ||||
\ | / | ||||
C | OS | ||||
\ | / | ||||
COO | COCO | COC | ACAD | ||
\ | / | ||||
ZONE COO | RDINATORS | ||||
\ | / | ||||
CHAPTER | CHAPTER | CHAPTER | CHAPTER | CHAPTER | CHAPTER |
APPENDIX 'B'
MFI ZONE COMPOSITION
ZONE #1 Southeast USA
Alabama, Georgia, Florida, Mississippi, South Carolina
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ZONE #2 Mid Atlantic USA
Delaware, Kentucky, Maryland, North Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia
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ZONE #3 Northeast USA
Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania,
Rhode Island, Vermont
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ZONE #4 Great Lakes USA
Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio, Wisconsin
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ZONE #5 Mid West USA
Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Minnesota, North Dakota, Nebraska, South Dakota
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ZONE #6 South West USA
Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Texas
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ZONE #7 South Plains USA
Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, Utah
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ZONE #8 North Plains USA
Idaho, Montana, Wyoming
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ZONE #9 West Cost USA
Alaska, California, Hawaii, Nevada, Oregon, Washington
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ZONE #10 Europe
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ZONE #11 Canada
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ZONE #12 Asia
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ZONE #13 Pacific
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ZONE #14 South America
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ZONE #15 Africa
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ZONE VR Online Internet Chapters
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ZONE EM Embassies - Organizations Affiliated with MFI
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ZONE L Lost in the Delta Quadrant - Chapters gone dark
APPENDIX 'C'
MFI ELECTION INFORMATION
GENERAL ELECTIONS
Elections for the position of IC will only be held in the event of the retirement of the current IC or a IC who fails a Vote of Confidence in the odd numbered years. Elections are a special thing for MFI and if at any time they one is conducted, the CC shall have the sole authority to determine the voting process and the process in which the votes are tallied from the Chapter Chairpersons. If any candidate for IC objects to the process in which votes are tallied, they assume total financial responsibility for hiring an independent party to tally the votes. The CC will generally use a method that is free for the membership and MFI.
Nominations for the position of IC will be taken and forwarded to the Elections Supervisor, who shall be appointed by the CC, but shall not be a member of the CC who is a candidate for IC. A minimum of five nominations from any Commanding Officer and/or Zone Coordinator must be submitted to nominate a member of MFI in good standing to the position of IC. The nominations phase will begin at a time that the CC has determined after a failed VOC or at least three months prior to the date in which the current IC has stated he or she will retire so that a smooth transition of the office may occur.
Campaigning for the position of IC in an election will begin following the nominations phase and may only be conducted via the official Campaigning listserv. The CC will establish this listserv for the sole purpose of campaigning and only one message containing the Nominees platform may be sent to the general Maquis MFI listserv. The Nominee will be responsible for selecting their VIC candidate and a slate of officers to serve in the other CC positions. The Campaigning phase will end at a time that the CC designates or at least two months prior to the date in which the current IC will retire, to allow a sufficient amount of time for the voting to occur.
The Elections phase will begin immediately following the Campaigning phase. The Elections Supervisor shall send out the details of how the Election will be conducted, how Chapter CO's will vote, and how the results will be tallied before the Elections phase begins. The elections phase shall end at a time that the CC designates in a failed IC VOC or at least two weeks prior to the date in which the current IC will retire. The results must be tallied and presented to the CC at least 7 days following the election of a failed VOC and at least one week prior to the date in which the current IC will retire.
The new IC will take office no later than 3 days following the announced results of an election. The outgoing IC is responsible for transferring all materials related to the office of IC and MFI in general to the new IC at least 10 days after having taken office. It is hoped that this transition (if one was to occur) is a smooth and timely process without delays.
Candidate Guidelines. For the office of IC there are certain mandatory requirements. Candidates for these offices must be:
- 1. 21 yrs of age minimum.
- 2. Possess outstanding leadership and management skills.
- 3. Prepared to assume, personally, without charge to the organization, some of the "costs" inherent in the position.
- 4. Able to put the membership ahead of self.
- 5. A nominee for IC, must have been a member of MFI for at least 3 consecutive years and is required to have command experience, this need not be necessarily from MFI.
Violations of these guidelines could be grounds for impeachment as voted by the general membership if a person is elected to office and then shows flaws in his/her performance that demonstrate the individual is not qualified to continue in office.
Campaigning. Campaigning may be done via any forum -- letters, electronic mail, flyers etc. Candidates are encouraged to use the listserv and the BADLANDS Newsletter as a campaign forum.
Outgoing Officers. All outgoing officers must turn over all materials connected with their office to the in-coming officers no less than thirty (30) days prior to the incoming officers assuming office. Failure to do so shall subject the offending outgoing officers to summary disciplinary proceedings, in addition to any remedies provided by the applicable civil or criminal laws.
ZONE ELECTIONS
It is each Zone's responsibility to determine the candidate qualifications, nomination, election procedures, and length of term of office for its Zone Coordinator. The Zone Coordinator, or the Zone Commanding Officers if there is no Zone Coordinator, shall appoint a person to serve as the Supervisor of Elections. This person can be neither the Zone Coordinator, nor Zone Staff Member, nor a candidate for any zone wide office. The only stipulation that MFI levies as requirements to hold this office is that the elected Zone Coordinator be at least twenty-one (21) years of age and have previous command experience. The Chief of Computer Operations will provide a listing of all eligible voters of that Zone to the Zone Supervisor of Elections upon request. It is the Zone Supervisor of Elections' responsibility to make that list available to eligible candidates.
Should any Zone member or candidate feel that there were irregularities in the election process he/she should request an investigation from the MFI Legal Advisor. The elected Zone Coordinator will be considered interim until the investigation is completed. Should irregularities be found a new election will be called under the supervision of an appointed investigation officer.
APPENDIX 'D'
THE MFI RANK SYSTEM
see Rank
APPENDIX 'E'
MFI PROMOTION POLICY AND NOMINATION PROCEDURES
Promotions for local unit/chapters and members are at the discretion of the local Commanding Officer/Chairman of said local unit or chapter. COs are authorized to make promotions up to but not including their present rank. (i.e., a Captain can promote their members up to Commander). This policy is restricted to promotions up to Captain for those COs holding flag or general officer rank and promotion of their local members above Captain is addressed below.
Flag Officer Promotions: All promotions over the rank of Captain must be acted upon by the Coordinator Council only and will be made one grade at a time (i.e. Captain to Commodore, Commodore to Rear Admiral, Rear Admiral to Vice Admiral, and Vice Admiral to Admiral. Only a flag officer may submit a nomination for a flag officer promotion. Nominees must be a Captain over the age of 21 and in good standing with the organization. The nomination will be received by a Coordinator Council member and a vote of two fellow Council members must be made to authorize the promotion. The Force Admiral must be made aware of the acceptance of nomination prior to promotion authorization and notification to the member of his/her new rank. If you are of flag rank your rank must be reviewed and approved by the Coordinator Council. Applications under our Collateral Flag Rank Conversion policy will only be accepted after the member has been in MFI for a minimum of six months and has completed both the New Member Exam and the Leadership Development Exam.
APPENDIX 'F'
MFI RANK INSIGNIA AND UNIFORM GUIDE
Rank pins are available at a variety of sources. MFI does provide a few of those places online and even our quartermaster shop stocks supplies of those rank insignias that we can obtain. You can get up to date info on rank pins at: http://www.maquis.com/rank.html or by contacting the quartermaster at jdavis@maquis.com. Rank pins can be worn on civilian clothing or on constructed costumes and uniforms.
Uniforms are an optional item for MFI. The organization does not prescribe uniforms as they are up to the individual member as well as chapter. Below you will find some examples that HQ has constructed. These examples are for your guidance only and can be used to derive your own versions of the uniform in any shape or form.
MFI Polo shirt. For casual wear at club functions or anytime you want to show the colors. Currently we have this black style with the MFI emblem embroidered on the upper right breast. The color can be totally up to the member or chapter and the embroidered emblem can be obtained by contacting the quartermaster at jdavis@maquis.com
![]() Dinner Dress Jacket |
An updated form of the Dress Jacket. This is an actual Dinner Dress Jacket (sort of a tuxedo style which is shorter than a standard jacket. Trimmed the same way as the Dress Jacket, this is much lighter and wears very nice. The shoulders have been "ribbed" as per the style worn on the current Starfleet uniforms, giving it a contrast appearance. I've updated the Dress Jacket in the same manner. |
Basically, this is a standard DS9 jumpsuit top. The pattern can be altered where the uniform's left sleeve (as you are looking at it), is a different material than the rest of the tunic. The angled changing of the material is what appeals to me. If you recognize this, you will find that it is alternation of the uniform worn by the "Relativity" crew from last season's Voyager. If you have the episode on tape, you can refer to it for other views of the tunic. I thought the uniform look great, and wanted to produce a Maquis version of it. I always liked my TNG and DS9 uniforms. | ![]() Duty Uniform Tunic |
![]() Dress Jacket |
This jacket is a "bomber" style medium jacket with a removable liner. The jacket has a gold piping and flag band on the wrist for flag officers. Captain and below will have a small department color band at the wrist. Commodores and Rear Admirals only have gold piping on collar, Vice and Admiral and Admiral will have piping up and down the jacket zipper. A black or a department colored undertunic is worn under the jacket to hold the rank pips. |
When uniforms and costumes are impractial, the good Maquis always wants to appear styling as a member of MFI. Here is the MFI polo shirt to be worn while at casual "civilian" events. | ![]() Maquis Polo Shirt |
![]() Maquis Windbreaker |
When the weather starts to get cold, the Polo Shirt can get quite brisk. Here is the MFI satin jacket to be worn over your shirt and to display your Maquis awards and pins. |