From January 2003 to present, 28 ANA employees have either resigned, been "asked" to retire or have been fired. Twenty-eight employees from a staff of 33
Who is left? Why them?
Andy Lustig
Doggedly collecting coins of the Central American Republic.
Visit the Society of US Pattern Collectors at USPatterns.com.
MrEureka: I will need to find out if the ANA has a pension plan for all employees and if they were vested in full or not when they were terminated or asked to resign. I am suspicious when that many employees leave in a short period of time.
<< <i>This looks like the "smoking gun". I will write to Bill Horton again. Steve >>
It will be interesting to see how the ANA responses to this letter, I don't think they can afford to just ignore it. Many ANA members will have a Ricky Ricardo reaction: "You got some splainin to do".
<< <i>This looks like the "smoking gun". I will write to Bill Horton again. Steve >>
It will be interesting to see how the ANA responses to this letter, I don't think they can afford to just ignore it. Many ANA members will have a Ricky Ricardo reaction: "You got some splainin to do". >>
My thoughts exactly, Michigan!
An authorized PCGS dealer, and a contributor to the Red Book.
<< <i>This looks like the "smoking gun". I will write to Bill Horton again. Steve >>
It will be interesting to see how the ANA responses to this letter, I don't think they can afford to just ignore it. Many ANA members will have a Ricky Ricardo reaction: "You got some splainin to do". >>
My thoughts exactly, Michigan! >>
DORAN COINS - On Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), & www.dorancoins.net - UPCOMING SHOWS (tentative dates)- 10/8/2023 - Fairfield, IL, 11/5/2023 - Urbana, IL., 12/3/2023 - Mattoon, IL.
That editorial describes a horrific situation. I have to guess that when the ANA head honchos respond, it will say that "confidentiality of personal" records prevents them giving all their side of the story....sort of like they did when they bounced Walter Ostromecki. Based on this editorial, I truly wonder if I would characterize the ANA's Board of Governors as anything but a rubber stamp...
I SURE hope someone asks David Skow to join these boards. Aside from this issue, I think he would be a valuable board member.
<< <i>That editorial describes a horrific situation. I have to guess that when the ANA head honchos respond, it will say that "confidentiality of personal" records prevents them giving all their side of the story....sort of like they did when they bounced Walter Ostromecki. Based on this editorial, I truly wonder if I would characterize the ANA's Board of Governors as anything but a rubber stamp...
I SURE hope someone asks David Skow to join these boards. Aside from this issue, I think he would be a valuable board member. >>
I suspect that at least some of the board members were out of the loop on what is really going on at the ANA headquarters since they are not there on an everyday basis. I would think that an emergency meeting of the board to discuss the situation is in order.
<< <i>That editorial describes a horrific situation. I have to guess that when the ANA head honchos respond, it will say that "confidentiality of personal" records prevents them giving all their side of the story....sort of like they did when they bounced Walter Ostromecki. Based on this editorial, I truly wonder if I would characterize the ANA's Board of Governors as anything but a rubber stamp...
I SURE hope someone asks David Skow to join these boards. Aside from this issue, I think he would be a valuable board member. >>
I suspect that at least some of the board members were out of the loop on what is really going on at the ANA headquarters since they are not there on an everyday basis. I would think that an emergency meeting of the board to discuss the situation is in order. >>
Michigan - it would be nice but it won't happen!
DORAN COINS - On Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), & www.dorancoins.net - UPCOMING SHOWS (tentative dates)- 10/8/2023 - Fairfield, IL, 11/5/2023 - Urbana, IL., 12/3/2023 - Mattoon, IL.
This information is quite disappointing - especially since I've been a member for many years.
I think there is far more to the story that has yet to be told. And I think it will get worse.
So far it looks like the ANA is run as a dictatorship and all dissenting views are removed. That is not a healthy situation. I would love to hear something from Cipoletti, at the moment he looks like the dictator.
“In matters of style, swim with the current; in matters of principle, stand like a rock." - Thomas Jefferson
Sorry for the ambiguity. By "qualified feedback", I mean feedback from people that have firsthand knowledge of the situation, as opposed to "unqualified feedback", which would be speculation by people that are essentially clueless.
Andy Lustig
Doggedly collecting coins of the Central American Republic.
Visit the Society of US Pattern Collectors at USPatterns.com.
<< <i>Sorry for the ambiguity. By "qualified feedback", I mean feedback from people that have firsthand knowledge of the situation, as opposed to "unqualified feedback", which would be speculation by people that are essentially clueless. >>
I would love to hear what the rest of the ANA staff has to say about the situation, there opinions would count highly. Others with close connections to the ANA I would be more skeptical about as people tend to protect their friends when things are not going well.
The ANA's seeming "morph" into an autocracy is worrisome in and of itself, but the allegations of a "star chamber" to "investigate" members, if true, is way over the top. JMHO
Guess I'll have to read about the happenings here, because I'm letting my CW subscription expire. Too much frustation on missing and late issues.
Be wary of giving advice...wise men don't need it, and fools won't heed it.
<< <i>I would love to hear what the rest of the ANA staff has to say about the situation, there opinions would count highly. Others with close connections to the ANA I would be more skeptical about as people tend to protect their friends when things are not going well. >>
Don't think that would enlighten anyone. If the rest of the staff is positive, that could mean either (1) things are good, or (2) people are afraid to say anything negative for fear of being the next person out the door. We'd have no way of knowing which.
New collectors, please educate yourself before spending money on coins; there are people who believe that using numismatic knowledge to rip the naïve is what this hobby is all about.
<< <i>I would love to hear what the rest of the ANA staff has to say about the situation, there opinions would count highly. Others with close connections to the ANA I would be more skeptical about as people tend to protect their friends when things are not going well. >>
Don't think that would enlighten anyone. If the rest of the staff is positive, that could mean either (1) things are good, or (2) people are afraid to say anything negative for fear of being the next person out the door. We'd have no way of knowing which. >>
I guess we need a paid undercover "mole" who would be newly hired by the ANA for some position and have them document everything that they see and hear. Who knew that numismatics could be as surreal as all this?
<< <i>I guess we need a paid undercover "mole" who would be newly hired by the ANA for some position and have them document everything that they see and hear. Who knew that numismatics could be as surreal as all this? >>
<< <i>I would love to hear what the rest of the ANA staff has to say about the situation, there opinions would count highly. Others with close connections to the ANA I would be more skeptical about as people tend to protect their friends when things are not going well. >>
Don't think that would enlighten anyone. If the rest of the staff is positive, that could mean either (1) things are good, or (2) people are afraid to say anything negative for fear of being the next person out the door. We'd have no way of knowing which. >>
I guess we need a paid undercover "mole" who would be newly hired by the ANA for some position and have them document everything that they see and hear. Who knew that numismatics could be as surreal as all this? >>
Good luck hiring anybody in now. They offered me the job that became Sklow's three years ago. I happen to like working for Harlan very much, but even if I had been unemployed back then I would not have taken the job, because I did not trust the administration at the ANA at the time, and have no reason to think it has improved at all. TD
Numismatist. 50 year member ANA. Winner of four ANA Heath Literary Awards; three Wayte and Olga Raymond Literary Awards; Numismatist of the Year Award 2009, and Lifetime Achievement Award 2020. Winner numerous NLG Literary Awards.
<< <i>I would love to hear what the rest of the ANA staff has to say about the situation, there opinions would count highly. Others with close connections to the ANA I would be more skeptical about as people tend to protect their friends when things are not going well. >>
Don't think that would enlighten anyone. If the rest of the staff is positive, that could mean either (1) things are good, or (2) people are afraid to say anything negative for fear of being the next person out the door. We'd have no way of knowing which. >>
An outside consultant could be hired to survey the staff on a confidential basis.
An authorized PCGS dealer, and a contributor to the Red Book.
<< <i>I guess we need a paid undercover "mole" who would be newly hired by the ANA for some position and have them document everything that they see and hear. Who knew that numismatics could be as surreal as all this? >>
Vladimir Putin ? >>
Bad Vlad? have to wonder?
DORAN COINS - On Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), & www.dorancoins.net - UPCOMING SHOWS (tentative dates)- 10/8/2023 - Fairfield, IL, 11/5/2023 - Urbana, IL., 12/3/2023 - Mattoon, IL.
<< <i>I guess we need a paid undercover "mole" who would be newly hired by the ANA for some position and have them document everything that they see and hear. Who knew that numismatics could be as surreal as all this? >>
Vladimir Putin ? >>
Bad Vlad? have to wonder? >>
If former ANA staff members start coming down with radiation poisoning then we will know that things have gotten really out of control.
Q: It appears that the ANA executive director’s dual title of Executive Director and General Counsel is a conflict of interest. How can he properly advise the board?
A: Having an officer of an organization serve also as general counsel is not an uncommon practice and it does not create any conflict of interest. The Board of Governors gave the current executive director and general counsel the dual title to allow him to review contracts such as those for convention centers, decorators or hotels, to handle general legal matters and to coordinate when the ANA needs to retain outside counsel. This saves the association thousands of dollars each year in legal fees.
The ANA has several lawyers who are available to counsel the board and represent the ANA in legal matters when issues arise that need the assistance of outside counsel.
Andy Lustig
Doggedly collecting coins of the Central American Republic.
Visit the Society of US Pattern Collectors at USPatterns.com.
<< <i> Sorry for the ambiguity. By "qualified feedback", I mean feedback from people that have firsthand knowledge of the situation, as opposed to "unqualified feedback", which would be speculation by people that are essentially clueless. >>
Hey Andy,
Just curious. is Sklow's feedback qualified, or unqualified?
<< <i>Q: It appears that the ANA executive director’s dual title of Executive Director and General Counsel is a conflict of interest. How can he properly advise the board? >>
Better make that triple title. A month or so ago when the ANA fired the Chief Financial Officer (Which they had just recently promoted, given a raise, and a glowing endorsement), claiming personality conflicts and her wanting to run the organization like a business, it was announced that Cippoletti would be taking over her responsibilities. So he is now General Counsel, Executive Director, and Chief Financial Officer.
I think it's time for me to run for office at the ANA.
Always took candy from strangers Didn't wanna get me no trade Never want to be like papa Working for the boss every night and day --"Happy", by the Rolling Stones (1972)
Just curious. is Sklow's feedback qualified, or unqualified?
Yes, his view is qualified. If several more people that close to the action held the same views, and if there were no similarly qualified opposing views held by other people, I'd be very concerned. But for now, as far as I'm concerned, the jury is still out.
Andy Lustig
Doggedly collecting coins of the Central American Republic.
Visit the Society of US Pattern Collectors at USPatterns.com.
<< <i>Q: It appears that the ANA executive director’s dual title of Executive Director and General Counsel is a conflict of interest. How can he properly advise the board? >>
Better make that triple title. A month or so ago when the ANA fired the Chief Financial Officer (Which they had just recently promoted, given a raise, and a glowing endorsement), claiming personality conflicts and her wanting to run the organization like a business, it was announced that Cippoletti would be taking over her responsibilities. So he is now General Counsel, Executive Director, and Chief Financial Officer. >>
Alongside me, right Longacre?
DORAN COINS - On Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), & www.dorancoins.net - UPCOMING SHOWS (tentative dates)- 10/8/2023 - Fairfield, IL, 11/5/2023 - Urbana, IL., 12/3/2023 - Mattoon, IL.
<< <i>Q: It appears that the ANA executive director’s dual title of Executive Director and General Counsel is a conflict of interest. How can he properly advise the board? >>
Better make that triple title. A month or so ago when the ANA fired the Chief Financial Officer (Which they had just recently promoted, given a raise, and a glowing endorsement), claiming personality conflicts and her wanting to run the organization like a business, it was announced that Cippoletti would be taking over her responsibilities. So he is now General Counsel, Executive Director, and Chief Financial Officer. >>
This is getting out of hand, one person should not have that much control. Is this the American Numismatic Association or the Cippoletti Numismatic Association? I assume the board of governors rubber stamped all of this?
<< <i> I think it's time for me to run for office at the ANA.
Longacre - I hope you're serious. >>
I will look into it. I need to check the nominating procedures. I think there is some sort of coin club reccomendation process, which may be problematic, but I need to review the rules.
Always took candy from strangers Didn't wanna get me no trade Never want to be like papa Working for the boss every night and day --"Happy", by the Rolling Stones (1972)
A month or so ago when the ANA fired the Chief Financial Officer (Which they had just recently promoted, given a raise, and a glowing endorsement), claiming personality conflicts and her wanting to run the organization like a business.
I have a feeling all is not right with the ANA finances and something is being covered up.
I emailed Mr. Horton a message of concern and a link to this thread. He replied with a letter that has been sent to Coin World by another staff person. Obviously the letter presented a different side of the issues. I asked for and he gave me permission to post the letter. So, even though I have yet to receive MY Coin World ( ) nonetheless here is a letter that may appear in a future issue. It's long but I didn't write it. I also do not necessarily endorse it; indeed, in my opinion, it skips over some of the most relevent points, such as the huge turnover rate. But it does present another perspective. So, read and enjoy:
I'm writing this letter in response to David Sklow's guest commentary in Coin World, "What Is It Like to Work at the ANA?" I would like to take this opportunity to address that same question.
I'm Judy Newhouse, Chris Cipoletti's Executive Assistant, and I can stay silent no longer. Perception is reality. And I have a much different perspective of working at the ANA and I'd like to share it with you.
I'm a relatively new member of the staff, having been hired in February, 2006. I haven't won any awards. Nor am I a life member. You may say that I'm too new to the ANA to address some of the events that happened before I came on board. You are correct. But, I can share my personal experiences. You may say that I'm biased because I'm Chris' assistant. I am! I've had the opportunity to watch him and listen to him, and I've learned that he's a man of high moral character and ethics. You may say that I hold this opinion because it's part of my job. Well, let me tell you that my happiness and the value that I place on my life are too important to me to stay in a job where I'm miserable and don't respect my employer. I've left a couple of jobs because t didn't agree with my boss' views. And anyone who knows me knows that I'm not a pushover. You may say that I'm protected because I'm Chris' assistant. Not true. I have never been given the impression that I am, either by Chris or any other fellow employee. I have never felt that I'm protected. I know that if I don't do my job to the best of my ability, I will not be employed for long.
Colorado is an "at-will" state. Every employment contract that I have ever signed states this up front. Every employer who has considered hiring me has stated, first and foremost, that I am free to quit my job for any reason and at a moment's notice. In turn, they are free to fire me for any reason and at a moment's notice. This is not unique to the ANA or Chris' leadership. For those of you who are employers, I ask these questions: Would you keep an employee who consistently works against your vision and goals for your company? Would you keep an employee who constantly tries to stir dissent among fellow employees? Would you keep an employee who, after many discussions and multiple warnings, continues to work against you? I think that you would have to answer with an emphatic NO.
Confidentiality agreements, again, are not unique to the ANA. Many organizations insist that their employees sign these agreements. Am I plagued with fear, intimidation and threats of retaliation? NO.
Does this make for an extremely oppressive work environment? NO. I'm an adult. I understand the stipulations of and my responsibilities to my employer. I do not expect special treatment because I possess certain knowledge and skills that I believe should elevate me to immunity from the rules. I also understand that if I don't like the rules, I am free to find employment that better suits me and my goals.
I enjoy my job immensely. It's a challenge because there is so much work to be done.
I enjoy working with each and every staff member. There's a feeling of family here; a feeling of pride in the work that we do. We all work very hard to promote the ANA and its vision of educating the world to the importance of numismatics. We all work very hard to help one another achieve the goals of our individual departments. I'm in the unique position, not by job title, but by where I'm located in the building, to see how Chris interacts with the rest of the staff. He is one of the most caring and considerate employers for whom I've had the privilege of working. I've watched him and listened to him, not just at headquarters, but in the Board of Governors meetings, and I can say, unequivocally, that Chris wants only the best for the ANA. He has worked tirelessly to help this organization. Some people want to continue thinking that this is a humble little club of coin collectors. It has become $0 much more than that. This is a multimillion dollar organization that needs to be operated os such if it's going to grow and thrive. We have a new phone system; one that has many benefits for the membership, as Nell as the employees. It's much more user friendly. Can management monitor and record phone conversations? Of course. Have you called any customer service organization in the last several years and not heard the words "this phone call may be monitored or recorded for quality assurance purposes"? The ANA is no different from any other organization that is interested in making sure that the membership gets the help that they want and need. Can phone calls be recorded secretly? Absolutely not! When a staff member, any staff member, pushes the record button, both parties to the phone call will hear the following: "Warning. This phone call is about to be recorded." Once again, this is not unique to the ANA. Many organizations use this feature on their phone system for quality assurance. It also helps employees when they have an abusive caller on the line. It helps me when I'm speaking to someone who wants to leave a lengthy message for Chris. This ensures that the correct information is passed on. Most new phone systems include this feature because it's used by organizations that are in the customer service arena. Also, because of my position, I sit in on the Board of Governors meetings, both open and executive sessions, and I can tell you that many of the rumors that are flying around are completely untrue, ,and are being spread by people with axes to grind or personal agendas. Is this board controlled by a strong willed executive director? Are you kidding me? You have met these people, right? This board consists of many diverse and strong personalities who absolutely would not allow themselves to be manipulated. This board has inherited many of the issues that are currently being discussed, including changes to the bylaws. There have been no decisions made by the current board of governors regarding the proposed bylaw changes. This board recognizes that it is imperative to include membership in the discussions and the decisions. By utilizing the technology that is available today, the membership has more opportunity to communicate with the board than ever before. And don't forget that this board consists of members of the ANA who are collectors and. numismatists, just like the rest of the membership. Their love of and passion for the hobby is equal to yours and their only desire is to ensure that it grows and remains the preeminent numismatic association in the world.
I find the idea of having an ANA museum outside of Colorado Springs, such as in the Ole San Francisco Mint to be a very exciting idea! What better way to bring awareness of the ANA to a much broader spectrum of people than by bringing it to a large metropolitan city that is visited by thousands of people everyday? What better way to increase membership than by letting people know that the ANA exists? And don't be fooled by the naysayers. The funding will be in place before these projects are undertaken. There you have it. My perspective. Do I work at the same ANA that David Sklow did? Nope. Not even close.
Management builds or management destroys organizations. It's nice to see all the rotten people getting weeded out of that organization we call the ANA, according to Chris' assistant
how many ? TWENTY EIGHT rotten eggs so far ? This is not about "at will" employment. Anyone knows if they don't perform, they are out of a job. They know the rules. A COMPASSIONATE ruler finds ways to make employees better and that ain't by FIRING them, it's by WORKING with them. If the ANA wants to do well financially they'd ask MANAGEMENT to take a pay cut. There are plenty of "WELL OFF" retirees who know all about MANAGING people right here on the boards that could manage the ANA. I have personally served on foreign soil with several ! Of course, I'm the same guy that thinks congressmen and senators should only make 10 dollars per hour. They can bill us up to forty hours per week MAX (and they have to solve real world problems)
As much as I appreciate Judy's letter, as a CEO I recognize that her primary function as executive assistant is to protect her boss. That is certainly my Executive Assistant's number one priority. And just like mine, Judy has done a fine job here. I'm afraid I have to rate her letter as unqualified feedback.(mrEureka's term)
<< <i>As much as I appreciate Judy's letter, as a CEO I recognize that her primary function as executive assistant is to protect her boss. That is certainly my Executive Assistant's number one priority. And just like mine, Judy has done a fine job here. I'm afraid I have to rate her letter as unqualified feedback.(mrEureka's term) >>
Well said, Fats.
An authorized PCGS dealer, and a contributor to the Red Book.
Q: It appears that the ANA executive director’s dual title of Executive Director and General Counsel is a conflict of interest. How can he properly advise the board?
A: Having an officer of an organization serve also as general counsel is not an uncommon practice and it does not create any conflict of interest. The Board of Governors gave the current executive director and general counsel the dual title to allow him to review contracts such as those for convention centers, decorators or hotels, to handle general legal matters and to coordinate when the ANA needs to retain outside counsel. This saves the association thousands of dollars each year in legal fees.
The ANA has several lawyers who are available to counsel the board and represent the ANA in legal matters when issues arise that need the assistance of outside counsel. >>
First of all, where are you finding this Q&A section? I cannot find it.
Second, I correponded with President Bill Horton yesterday on my "concerns" regarding the dual role of Mr. Cippoleti as Attorney for the ANA.
He replied to me quite promptly (I am omitting all the other aspects of our correspondence):
<< <i>............There is no conflict of interest here. Also, the Association does have a attorney for legal issues and has had the same one since the Executive Director came on Board as such............... >>
I then replied to Mr, Horton as follows:
<< <i>.........If the ANA does indeed have legal counsel other than Cris Cippoleti, I do not see it mentioned anywhere in the ANA Magazine or on the website. This information needs to be disseminated in a positive manner that Mr. Cippoleti performs no legal services for the ANA and he nor his firm receives no legal fees from the ANA.
This is creating the majority of negative publicity for both Mr. Cippoleti as well as the ANA. This needs to be eliminated as soon as possible as it is my view the other issues and concerns I have are typical issues of general concern that most organizations have.
This differs from past practices when Christopher Cippoleti was the attorney for the ANA but not yet the Executive Director and so noted in the various Numismatist publications a number of years ago.
I would obviously prefer to cease my investigation if it is a "big ado about nothing," but I need your help in "clearing the air" regarding past and current separation of professional duties...... >>
Please note that I have not publically stated any specific complaints about Mr. Cippoletti as executive director other than the dual concern that I have stated of (1) the conflict of interest or even potential conflict of interest in rendering legal advice as well as being the executive director and (2) the resulting weakened state of internal control in such an organization when such an officer performs multiple professional duties for numerous reasons.
I do believe that a loss of 28 of 33 employees needs to be addressed somehow as either:
(1) employees are being underpaid (2) overworked for the compensation (3) commutation issues (4) abusive membership at large towards the employees (5) competiton hiring away key employees (6) loss of benefits (7) management style conflicting with employees at large (8) improper hiring and screening of employees in the first place (9) insufficent advising of employees to improve their skills (10) etc.
It is normally the purview of the executive director to ascertain the reasons for departure of a large number of employees, however when such loss is "excessive" the board in executive session normally assigns a committee to provide oversight to the executive director to ascertain corrective action and to recommend to the board any corrective action requiring board approval. These matters should remain confidential to protect the (legal) interests of the ANA at large and if the board of directors is not able to communicate its "corrective action" in at least in very general terms to the membership at large, a "revolt" by the membership at large will eventually come to roost.
Monitoring of employee communication in a public service type job like having problems with your computer and you call Dell etc. is one thing but monitoring phone calls (or emails) from people who do not have day to day contact with the public is not always a great idea. It can create an atmosphere of mistrust and resentment which can result in high turnover of employees. If a particular person has been a problem in this regard that is something else but putting everyone into the same basket is not a great idea IMO>
One thing this latest Sklow event has resulted in is the fact that internet communication in an almost "real time" world is here now. We have just read a response letter which I would believe will not appear in Coin World until the December 18th issue. There is obviously many things happening within the ANA. The most important one IMHO is that the organization COMMUNICATES to its members what it is doing or planning on doing and WHY in a very prompt way. In today's world, letting the print media or worse, the monthly Numismatist tell us important information two weeks or two months after it is"news" is unacceptable. There are still many serious issues out there involving the ANA. I'm sure there are different approaches to solving them and hopefully the next board of governors election will bring people on who believe in utilizing this amazing internet tool to constantly COMMUNICATE information to the members promptly and seek feedback. We need more openess about plans, goals, etc. If the membership knows what the plans are and WHY, and they "buy in", then we will really see a new growth. Steve
Comments
This sounds like a potentially ominous development.
Who is left? Why them?
Doggedly collecting coins of the Central American Republic.
Visit the Society of US Pattern Collectors at USPatterns.com.
My Complete PROOF Lincoln Cent with Major Varieties(1909-2015)Set Registry
<< <i>This looks like the "smoking gun". I will write to Bill Horton again. Steve
It will be interesting to see how the ANA responses to this letter, I don't think they can afford to just ignore it.
Many ANA members will have a Ricky Ricardo reaction: "You got some splainin to do".
<< <i>
<< <i>This looks like the "smoking gun". I will write to Bill Horton again. Steve
It will be interesting to see how the ANA responses to this letter, I don't think they can afford to just ignore it.
Many ANA members will have a Ricky Ricardo reaction: "You got some splainin to do". >>
My thoughts exactly, Michigan!
An authorized PCGS dealer, and a contributor to the Red Book.
<< <i>
<< <i>
<< <i>This looks like the "smoking gun". I will write to Bill Horton again. Steve
It will be interesting to see how the ANA responses to this letter, I don't think they can afford to just ignore it.
Many ANA members will have a Ricky Ricardo reaction: "You got some splainin to do". >>
My thoughts exactly, Michigan! >>
I SURE hope someone asks David Skow to join these boards. Aside from this issue, I think he would be a valuable board member.
<< <i>That editorial describes a horrific situation. I have to guess that when the ANA head honchos respond, it will say that "confidentiality of personal" records prevents them giving all their side of the story....sort of like they did when they bounced Walter Ostromecki. Based on this editorial, I truly wonder if I would characterize the ANA's Board of Governors as anything but a rubber stamp...
I SURE hope someone asks David Skow to join these boards. Aside from this issue, I think he would be a valuable board member. >>
I suspect that at least some of the board members were out of the loop on what is really going on at the ANA headquarters since
they are not there on an everyday basis. I would think that an emergency meeting of the board to discuss the situation is
in order.
<< <i>
<< <i>That editorial describes a horrific situation. I have to guess that when the ANA head honchos respond, it will say that "confidentiality of personal" records prevents them giving all their side of the story....sort of like they did when they bounced Walter Ostromecki. Based on this editorial, I truly wonder if I would characterize the ANA's Board of Governors as anything but a rubber stamp...
I SURE hope someone asks David Skow to join these boards. Aside from this issue, I think he would be a valuable board member. >>
I suspect that at least some of the board members were out of the loop on what is really going on at the ANA headquarters since
they are not there on an everyday basis. I would think that an emergency meeting of the board to discuss the situation is
in order. >>
Michigan - it would be nice but it won't happen!
I think there is far more to the story that has yet to be told. And I think it will get worse.
So far it looks like the ANA is run as a dictatorship and all dissenting views are removed. That is not a healthy situation. I would love to hear something from Cipoletti, at the moment he looks like the dictator.
“In matters of style, swim with the current; in matters of principle, stand like a rock." - Thomas Jefferson
My digital cameo album 1950-64 Cameos - take a look!
<< <i>This information is quite disappointing - especially since I've been a member for many years.
I think there is far more to the story that has yet to be told. And I think it will get worse.
I have heard a few things not mentioned in the letter that if true are indeed worse. (best not to repeat here).
Whatever Cippoletti says, most will not believe him. I want to hear from the Bill Horton and the Board.
BTW, not to rain on the witch hunters' parade, but most of the qualified feedback I've heard with respect to Cippoletti is positive.
Doggedly collecting coins of the Central American Republic.
Visit the Society of US Pattern Collectors at USPatterns.com.
What does that mean?
Doggedly collecting coins of the Central American Republic.
Visit the Society of US Pattern Collectors at USPatterns.com.
<< <i>"qualified feedback"
What does that mean? >>
People with money are quailified.... people without it aren't
~shakin' the bush boss~
``https://ebay.us/m/KxolR5
``https://ebay.us/m/KxolR5
<< <i>Sorry for the ambiguity. By "qualified feedback", I mean feedback from people that have firsthand knowledge of the situation, as opposed to "unqualified feedback", which would be speculation by people that are essentially clueless. >>
I would love to hear what the rest of the ANA staff has to say about the situation, there opinions would count highly. Others with
close connections to the ANA I would be more skeptical about as people tend to protect their friends when things are not going well.
Guess I'll have to read about the happenings here, because I'm letting my CW subscription expire. Too much frustation on missing and late issues.
"Qualified feedback" meaning from saavy dealers of course.
roadrunner
<< <i>I would love to hear what the rest of the ANA staff has to say about the situation, there opinions would count highly. Others with
close connections to the ANA I would be more skeptical about as people tend to protect their friends when things are not going well. >>
Don't think that would enlighten anyone. If the rest of the staff is positive, that could mean either (1) things are good, or (2) people are afraid to say anything negative for fear of being the next person out the door. We'd have no way of knowing which.
New collectors, please educate yourself before spending money on coins; there are people who believe that using numismatic knowledge to rip the naïve is what this hobby is all about.
<< <i>
<< <i>I would love to hear what the rest of the ANA staff has to say about the situation, there opinions would count highly. Others with
close connections to the ANA I would be more skeptical about as people tend to protect their friends when things are not going well. >>
Don't think that would enlighten anyone. If the rest of the staff is positive, that could mean either (1) things are good, or (2) people are afraid to say anything negative for fear of being the next person out the door. We'd have no way of knowing which. >>
I guess we need a paid undercover "mole" who would be newly hired by the ANA for some position and have them document everything that they see and hear. Who knew that numismatics could be as surreal as all this?
<< <i>I guess we need a paid undercover "mole" who would be newly hired by the ANA for some position and have them document everything that they see and hear. Who knew that numismatics could be as surreal as all this?
Vladimir Putin ?
``https://ebay.us/m/KxolR5
<< <i>
<< <i>
<< <i>I would love to hear what the rest of the ANA staff has to say about the situation, there opinions would count highly. Others with
close connections to the ANA I would be more skeptical about as people tend to protect their friends when things are not going well. >>
Don't think that would enlighten anyone. If the rest of the staff is positive, that could mean either (1) things are good, or (2) people are afraid to say anything negative for fear of being the next person out the door. We'd have no way of knowing which. >>
I guess we need a paid undercover "mole" who would be newly hired by the ANA for some position and have them document everything that they see and hear. Who knew that numismatics could be as surreal as all this?
Good luck hiring anybody in now. They offered me the job that became Sklow's three years ago. I happen to like working for Harlan very much, but even if I had been unemployed back then I would not have taken the job, because I did not trust the administration at the ANA at the time, and have no reason to think it has improved at all.
TD
<< <i>
<< <i>I would love to hear what the rest of the ANA staff has to say about the situation, there opinions would count highly. Others with
close connections to the ANA I would be more skeptical about as people tend to protect their friends when things are not going well. >>
Don't think that would enlighten anyone. If the rest of the staff is positive, that could mean either (1) things are good, or (2) people are afraid to say anything negative for fear of being the next person out the door. We'd have no way of knowing which. >>
An outside consultant could be hired to survey the staff on a confidential basis.
An authorized PCGS dealer, and a contributor to the Red Book.
<< <i>
<< <i>I guess we need a paid undercover "mole" who would be newly hired by the ANA for some position and have them document everything that they see and hear. Who knew that numismatics could be as surreal as all this?
Vladimir Putin ?
Bad Vlad? have to wonder?
<< <i>
<< <i>
<< <i>I guess we need a paid undercover "mole" who would be newly hired by the ANA for some position and have them document everything that they see and hear. Who knew that numismatics could be as surreal as all this?
Vladimir Putin ?
Bad Vlad? have to wonder? >>
If former ANA staff members start coming down with radiation poisoning then we will know that things have gotten really
out of control.
Q: It appears that the ANA executive director’s dual title of Executive Director and General Counsel is a conflict of interest. How can he properly advise the board?
A: Having an officer of an organization serve also as general counsel is not an uncommon practice and it does not create any conflict of interest. The Board of Governors gave the current executive director and general counsel the dual title to allow him to review contracts such as those for convention centers, decorators or hotels, to handle general legal matters and to coordinate when the ANA needs to retain outside counsel. This saves the association thousands of dollars each year in legal fees.
The ANA has several lawyers who are available to counsel the board and represent the ANA in legal matters when issues arise that need the assistance of outside counsel.
Doggedly collecting coins of the Central American Republic.
Visit the Society of US Pattern Collectors at USPatterns.com.
<< <i> Sorry for the ambiguity. By "qualified feedback", I mean feedback from people that have firsthand knowledge of the situation, as opposed to "unqualified feedback", which would be speculation by people that are essentially clueless. >>
Hey Andy,
Just curious. is Sklow's feedback qualified, or unqualified?
<< <i>Q: It appears that the ANA executive director’s dual title of Executive Director and General Counsel is a conflict of interest. How can he properly advise the board? >>
Better make that triple title. A month or so ago when the ANA fired the Chief Financial Officer (Which they had just recently promoted, given a raise, and a glowing endorsement), claiming personality conflicts and her wanting to run the organization like a business, it was announced that Cippoletti would be taking over her responsibilities. So he is now General Counsel, Executive Director, and Chief Financial Officer.
Didn't wanna get me no trade
Never want to be like papa
Working for the boss every night and day
--"Happy", by the Rolling Stones (1972)
<< <i>I think it's time for me to run for office at the ANA. >>
You have my vote. I'm serious.
Longacre - I hope you're serious.
Doggedly collecting coins of the Central American Republic.
Visit the Society of US Pattern Collectors at USPatterns.com.
Yes, his view is qualified. If several more people that close to the action held the same views, and if there were no similarly qualified opposing views held by other people, I'd be very concerned. But for now, as far as I'm concerned, the jury is still out.
Doggedly collecting coins of the Central American Republic.
Visit the Society of US Pattern Collectors at USPatterns.com.
<< <i>
<< <i>Q: It appears that the ANA executive director’s dual title of Executive Director and General Counsel is a conflict of interest. How can he properly advise the board? >>
Better make that triple title. A month or so ago when the ANA fired the Chief Financial Officer (Which they had just recently promoted, given a raise, and a glowing endorsement), claiming personality conflicts and her wanting to run the organization like a business, it was announced that Cippoletti would be taking over her responsibilities. So he is now General Counsel, Executive Director, and Chief Financial Officer. >>
Alongside me, right Longacre?
<< <i>
<< <i>Q: It appears that the ANA executive director’s dual title of Executive Director and General Counsel is a conflict of interest. How can he properly advise the board? >>
Better make that triple title. A month or so ago when the ANA fired the Chief Financial Officer (Which they had just recently promoted, given a raise, and a glowing endorsement), claiming personality conflicts and her wanting to run the organization like a business, it was announced that Cippoletti would be taking over her responsibilities. So he is now General Counsel, Executive Director, and Chief Financial Officer. >>
This is getting out of hand, one person should not have that much control. Is this the American Numismatic Association or
the Cippoletti Numismatic Association? I assume the board of governors rubber stamped all of this?
<< <i> I think it's time for me to run for office at the ANA.
Longacre - I hope you're serious. >>
I will look into it. I need to check the nominating procedures. I think there is some sort of coin club reccomendation process, which may be problematic, but I need to review the rules.
Didn't wanna get me no trade
Never want to be like papa
Working for the boss every night and day
--"Happy", by the Rolling Stones (1972)
<< <i> I think it's time for me to run for office at the ANA.
Longacre - I hope you're serious. >>
You have my vote! Plus I'll speak on your behalf at my local coin clubs.
I'll also do the same for Michael Doran.
An authorized PCGS dealer, and a contributor to the Red Book.
I have a feeling all is not right with the ANA finances and something is being covered up.
an "official" announcement
I want transparency with my leaders , not a shroud of darkness.
I hope Walter returns, too
``https://ebay.us/m/KxolR5
I'm writing this letter in response to David Sklow's guest commentary in Coin World, "What Is It Like to Work at the ANA?" I would like to take this opportunity to address that same question.
I'm Judy Newhouse, Chris Cipoletti's Executive Assistant, and I can stay silent no longer. Perception is reality. And I have a much different perspective of working at the ANA and I'd like to share it with you.
I'm a relatively new member of the staff, having been hired in February, 2006. I haven't won any awards. Nor am I a life member. You may say that I'm too new to the ANA to address some of the events that happened before I came on board. You are correct. But, I can share my personal experiences. You may say that I'm biased because I'm Chris' assistant. I am! I've had the opportunity to watch him and listen to him, and I've learned that he's a man of high moral character and ethics. You may say that I hold this opinion because it's part of my job. Well, let me tell you that my happiness and the value that I place on my life are too important to me to stay in a job where I'm miserable and don't respect my employer. I've left a couple of jobs because t didn't agree with my boss' views. And anyone who knows me knows that I'm not a pushover. You may say that I'm protected because I'm Chris' assistant. Not true. I have never been given the impression that I am, either by Chris or any other fellow employee. I have never felt that I'm protected. I know that if I don't do my job to the best of my ability, I will not be employed for long.
Colorado is an "at-will" state. Every employment contract that I have ever signed states this up front. Every employer who has considered hiring me has stated, first and foremost, that I am free to quit my job for any reason and at a moment's notice. In turn, they are free to fire me for any reason and at a moment's notice. This is not unique to the ANA or Chris' leadership. For those of you who are employers, I ask these questions: Would you keep an employee who consistently works against your vision and goals for your company? Would you keep an employee who constantly tries to stir dissent among fellow employees? Would you keep an employee who, after many discussions and multiple warnings, continues to work against you? I think that you would have to answer with an emphatic NO.
Confidentiality agreements, again, are not unique to the ANA. Many organizations insist that their employees sign these agreements. Am I plagued with fear, intimidation and threats of retaliation? NO.
Does this make for an extremely oppressive work environment? NO. I'm an adult. I understand the stipulations of and my responsibilities to my employer. I do not expect special treatment because I possess certain knowledge and skills that I believe should elevate me to immunity from the rules. I also understand that if I don't like the rules, I am free to find employment that better suits me and my goals.
I enjoy my job immensely. It's a challenge because there is so much work to be done.
I enjoy working with each and every staff member. There's a feeling of family here; a feeling of pride in the work that we do. We all work very hard to promote the ANA and its vision of educating the world to the importance of numismatics. We all work very hard to help one another achieve the goals of our individual departments.
I'm in the unique position, not by job title, but by where I'm located in the building, to see how Chris interacts with the rest of the staff. He is one of the most caring and considerate employers for whom I've had the privilege of working. I've watched him and listened to him, not just at headquarters, but in the Board of Governors meetings, and I can say, unequivocally, that Chris wants only the best for the ANA. He has worked tirelessly to help this organization. Some people want to continue thinking that this is a humble little club of coin collectors. It has become $0 much more than that. This is a multimillion dollar organization that needs to be operated os such if it's going to grow and thrive.
We have a new phone system; one that has many benefits for the membership, as Nell as the employees. It's much more user friendly. Can management monitor and record phone conversations? Of course. Have you called any customer service organization in the last several years and not heard the words "this phone call may be monitored or recorded for quality assurance purposes"? The ANA is no different from any other organization that is interested in making sure that the membership gets the help that they want and need. Can phone calls be recorded secretly? Absolutely not! When a staff member, any staff member, pushes the record button, both parties to the phone call will hear the following: "Warning. This phone call is about to be recorded." Once again, this is not unique to the ANA. Many organizations use this feature on their phone system for quality assurance. It also helps employees when they have an abusive caller on the line. It helps me when I'm speaking to someone who wants to leave a lengthy message for Chris. This ensures that the correct information is passed on. Most new phone systems include this feature because it's used by organizations that are in the customer service arena.
Also, because of my position, I sit in on the Board of Governors meetings, both open and executive sessions, and I can tell you that many of the rumors that are flying around are completely untrue, ,and are being spread by people with axes to grind or personal agendas. Is this board controlled by a strong willed executive director? Are you kidding me? You have met these people, right? This board consists of many diverse and strong personalities who absolutely would not allow themselves to be manipulated. This board has inherited many of the issues that are currently being discussed, including changes to the bylaws. There have been no decisions made by the current board of governors regarding the proposed bylaw changes. This board recognizes that it is imperative to include membership in the discussions and the decisions. By utilizing the technology that is available today, the membership has more opportunity to communicate with the board than ever before. And don't forget that this board consists of members of the ANA who are collectors and. numismatists, just like the rest of the membership. Their love of and passion for the hobby is equal to yours and their only desire is to ensure that it grows and remains the preeminent numismatic association in the world.
I find the idea of having an ANA museum outside of Colorado Springs, such as in the Ole San Francisco Mint to be a very exciting idea! What better way to bring awareness of the ANA to a much broader spectrum of people than by bringing it to a large metropolitan city that is visited by thousands of people everyday? What better way to increase membership than by letting people know that the ANA exists? And don't be fooled by the naysayers. The funding will be in place before these projects are undertaken.
There you have it. My perspective. Do I work at the same ANA that David Sklow did? Nope. Not even close.
Respectfully submitted,
Judy Newhouse
Cipoletti, Mussolini.
"Everything is on its way to somewhere. Everything." - George Malley, Phenomenon
http://www.american-legacy-coins.com
how many ? TWENTY EIGHT rotten eggs so far ? This is not about "at will" employment. Anyone knows if they don't perform, they are out of a job. They know the rules. A COMPASSIONATE ruler finds ways to make employees better and that ain't by FIRING them, it's by WORKING with them. If the ANA wants to do well financially they'd ask MANAGEMENT to take a pay cut. There are plenty of "WELL OFF" retirees who know all about MANAGING people right here on the boards that could manage the ANA. I have personally served on foreign soil with several !
Of course, I'm the same guy that thinks congressmen and senators should only make 10 dollars per hour. They can bill us up to forty hours per week MAX (and they have to solve real world problems)
``https://ebay.us/m/KxolR5
<< <i>As much as I appreciate Judy's letter, as a CEO I recognize that her primary function as executive assistant is to protect her boss. That is certainly my Executive Assistant's number one priority. And just like mine, Judy has done a fine job here. I'm afraid I have to rate her letter as unqualified feedback.(mrEureka's term) >>
An authorized PCGS dealer, and a contributor to the Red Book.
<< <i>From the ANA's website Q&As:
Q: It appears that the ANA executive director’s dual title of Executive Director and General Counsel is a conflict of interest. How can he properly advise the board?
A: Having an officer of an organization serve also as general counsel is not an uncommon practice and it does not create any conflict of interest. The Board of Governors gave the current executive director and general counsel the dual title to allow him to review contracts such as those for convention centers, decorators or hotels, to handle general legal matters and to coordinate when the ANA needs to retain outside counsel. This saves the association thousands of dollars each year in legal fees.
The ANA has several lawyers who are available to counsel the board and represent the ANA in legal matters when issues arise that need the assistance of outside counsel. >>
First of all, where are you finding this Q&A section? I cannot find it.
Second, I correponded with President Bill Horton yesterday on my "concerns" regarding the dual role of Mr. Cippoleti as Attorney for the ANA.
He replied to me quite promptly (I am omitting all the other aspects of our correspondence):
<< <i>............There is no conflict of interest here. Also, the Association does have a attorney for legal issues and has had the same one since the Executive Director came on Board as such............... >>
I then replied to Mr, Horton as follows:
<< <i>.........If the ANA does indeed have legal counsel other than
Cris Cippoleti, I do not see it mentioned anywhere in
the ANA Magazine or on the website. This information
needs to be disseminated in a positive manner that Mr.
Cippoleti performs no legal services for the ANA and
he nor his firm receives no legal fees from the ANA.
This is creating the majority of negative publicity
for both Mr. Cippoleti as well as the ANA. This needs
to be eliminated as soon as possible as it is my view
the other issues and concerns I have are typical
issues of general concern that most organizations
have.
This differs from past practices when Christopher
Cippoleti was the attorney for the ANA but not yet the
Executive Director and so noted in the various
Numismatist publications a number of years ago.
I would obviously prefer to cease my investigation if
it is a "big ado about nothing," but I need your help
in "clearing the air" regarding past and current
separation of professional duties...... >>
Please note that I have not publically stated any specific complaints about Mr. Cippoletti as executive director
other than the dual concern that I have stated of (1) the conflict of interest or even potential conflict of interest in rendering legal
advice as well as being the executive director and (2) the resulting weakened state of internal control in such an organization when such an officer performs multiple professional duties for numerous reasons.
I do believe that a loss of 28 of 33 employees needs to be addressed somehow as either:
(1) employees are being underpaid
(2) overworked for the compensation
(3) commutation issues
(4) abusive membership at large towards the employees
(5) competiton hiring away key employees
(6) loss of benefits
(7) management style conflicting with employees at large
(8) improper hiring and screening of employees in the first place
(9) insufficent advising of employees to improve their skills
(10) etc.
It is normally the purview of the executive director to ascertain the reasons for departure of a large number of employees, however when such loss is "excessive" the board in executive session normally assigns a committee to provide oversight to the executive director to ascertain corrective action and to recommend to the board any corrective action requiring board approval. These matters should remain confidential to protect the (legal) interests of the ANA at large and if the board of directors is not able to communicate its "corrective action" in at least in very general terms to the membership at large, a "revolt" by the membership at large will eventually come to roost.
is one thing but monitoring phone calls (or emails) from people who do not have day to day contact with the public is not always
a great idea. It can create an atmosphere of mistrust and resentment which can result in high turnover of employees. If a particular
person has been a problem in this regard that is something else but putting everyone into the same basket is not a great idea IMO>
My Complete PROOF Lincoln Cent with Major Varieties(1909-2015)Set Registry
It's in the "members only" section, under "Roadshow Q&A". (A suboptimal location, of course.) The whole section is worth reading.
Doggedly collecting coins of the Central American Republic.
Visit the Society of US Pattern Collectors at USPatterns.com.