[Here is the first 'real' cut at writing the article since most people seemed to agree with the basic principles. I think this looks fairly good, but I'm sure it could use a little polishing.
--Nils.] MEMBERSHIP ---------- Membership in this organization shall be open to all who meet the approval of the membership committee. Members have the right and responsibility of overseeing the board members, officers, and committees and ensuring that they operate in accordance with the goals and principles of the organization. All board members, officers, and committees are ultimately responsible to the membership, and should act in accordance with its wishes. Contributing and non-contributing membership are available within this organization. Members agree to help further and support the principles and goals of this organization. All membership applications and renewals will be reviewed by the Membership Committee. Applicants must meet the criteria set forth in the charter of the Membership Committee. Members wishing to leave the organization may do so at any time by notifying the membership committee of their desire for the membership to be terminated. Contributing Members -------------------- To become a contributing member the applicant must apply for a contributing membership and include a list of projects or free software related activities that they have participated in (and what they specifically have done) within the last two years (more may be included if desired). The contributing membership will expire two years from the date of issue of the membership. The member will be notified one month before the expiration of the membership and will be asked to send a renewal application with a list of projects or free software related activities that they have participated in within the last two years. If the membership is not renewed, the member status will be downgraded to a non-contributing member. To again become a contributing member at a later time, the person can simply follow the renewal process. Board members, by virtue of their office, are automatically granted the status of contributing members. Non-contributing Membership --------------------------- To become a non contributing member, the applicant must apply for a non-contributing membership. The membership will not expire.
