March 2025 Executive Board Meeting

Submitted by Jimmy Warden Secretary/Treasurer

The March 30 Executive Board meeting via Zoom was called to order at 4:01 p.m. by Executive Board Chair Chuck Lum. He informed the board the meeting was called to determine the position of Northeast Region vice president which is vacant due to the death of Tommy Roma. Secretary/Treasurer Jimmy Warden conducted the roll call; all board members were in attendance.

Lum read the process for selection as stated in Article VII, Section 3, of the NAPS Constitution & Bylaws:

“Vacancies, other than that of the President, occurring between conventions shall be filled by an interim appointment by the President, subject to the approval of the Executive Board, to serve until the next national convention. National or Area Vice President vacancies must be filled after consultation with the state presidents from the areas involved, for their input before a final determination is made. National or Area Vice President vacancies must be filled by a member from the region or area in which the vacancy exists.”

Southeast Area Vice President Bobby Bock asked for a personal point of privilege and thanked everyone for their thoughts and prayers during his ongoing health issues.

Lum turned the meeting over to President Ivan D. Butts. He said it was unfortunate to be here today discussing filling a board position. “Tommy was a great advocate for NAPS and our members,” Butts affirmed.

In making his recommendation, Butts said he followed the process by making phone calls and sending emails. After consideration, Butts recommended Sabir Salih for Northeast Region vice president. Sabir had shown interest in running for the position at the 2024 National Convention, Butts noted.

The floor was open for discussion. New York Area Vice President Dee Perez stated he wished to be considered for the vacant position and informed the board of the conversation he previously had with Butts. Perez questioned the process.

Other board members participated in the discussion for and against Butts’ recommendation.

Recommendation #1—submitted by President Ivan Butts that:

“Sabir Salih be appointed the Northeast Region vice president.”

Voting “yes” were Butts, Elizondo, Walton and Austin. Voting “no” were Mulidore, Warden, R. Green, Johnson, Perez, Dallojacono, Griffin, Laster, Trayer, Moreno, Mooney, Washington, Bock, Studdard, S. Green, Davis, Valuet and Pashinski.

The recommendation failed 4-18.

Butts said he will continue with the process to fill the Northeast Region vice president vacancy.

Bock asked that a closing prayer be made in memory of Tommy Roma. Richard Green led the prayer.

Lum adjourned the meeting at 4:52 p.m.