NoAC, even though this is the wrong thread for this, I'll address this one more time, then I'm done. Regarding the permits, as already mentioned, the atty that is working this issue (Pro Bono BTW) has requested that anything related to the permits NOT be discussed. I'm not a lawyer so I have no idea what his complete strategy is, but everyone involved is going to respect his request to remain quiet.
Now, I understand how frustrating it is, but really, what do you expect anyone to do? Can you find an atty to represent SB once this one bails because his clients completely disregarded his advice and undermined whatever strategy he may have? Or what about someone that only knows part of what is going on spouting off in public? Who's going to spend their time correcting the bad press or rumors that result?
I can see the students here not completely understanding this, but those that have been out in the real world long enough should understand that it is not always possible to release every single detail about a business transaction or a legal issue.
Having said that, SB can do a better job getting other info out to its members and potential donors. No question. It's not a black box and, as I have said before, all involved realize the need to keep it from becoming one. However, it's also not "open source." Every single detail regarding a meeting or the process to reach a decision won't be made public. Not because "you don't need to know" or "this is super secret Bonfire stuff", but because it serves no purpose. Important items like safety policies, construction guidelines, building processes, etc should be, will be and are made public. Those are the items the reports meant when they said things were too secretive. I really don't feel they meant that every permit or issue the University dealt with should be publicized.
Keep this in mind too: Any "official" information will only be released through the SB website or in an official press release, not on TexAgs. Yes, the website has been short of info lately, but sometimes there's just not anything to release. I have been assured several times that all emails received from the listed address are forwarded to the appropriate party. If you are asking questions over and over about the permits, then I can see why you feel like it is unresponsive. Probably at least something that says "can't speak to that, etc, etc" would be better. However, if you are asking other types of questions that aren't getting answered, then that should be addressed.
This is a growing organization and even with the issues at hand, it stills gets better each year. As with any organization, there are setbacks that hopefully something is learned from and corrected for later years. That's about all you can ask. They have the safety and construction stuff wired tight, now they need to learn more about running a business that is scrutinized in the public eye. Don't write them off yet.
Scott Coker '92
just kidding.