July, 2015

I am in disbelief by the action of the Grant County Senior Olympic board members taken in dismissing Mr. Mario Quintana as Coordinator of the Senior Olympics in Grant County. No reason was given for the termination. On top of that, notices were sent by e-mail instead of calling for a board meeting! This is unethical and that meeting held was unjustified. No quorum was present as per 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. In order to terminate or dismiss a member, there must be a 2/3 majority vote presented. And why were there non-board people present at that meeting when it was supposed to be only board members? Is there an interest? Even the secretary who had resigned by letter before this ever happened was taking minutes at the so-called meeting. No opportunity was given for Mr. Quintana to speak. Proper protocol was not taken by the board. If it's a personnel matter, explanation should have taken place properly. It's common courtesy if they know what that is! How can an organization be directed if a person doesn't know what is expected of him/her? Was that ever discussed?

I can attest that Mr. Quintana has done an outstanding job in this organization. Through his efforts and tireless dedication, he has picked up participation in this senior Olympics. In 2009 when my dad and I competed, participation was around 30 if that many. He has gone out of his way, and this is volunteer work, to bring this organization to what it is now, over 100 plus participants and great relations to this community. Mr. Quintana, born and raised in this community, is trying to do good for the community; this is not glory for himself but to establish a better health environment and good camaraderie for our senior citizens throughout Grant County. He has even gone to Luna and Hidalgo counties to promote Senior Olympics! Now if that is not dedication, I don't know what is.

I believe Mr. Quintana and the community deserve an explanation on the reason for this action and hoping for a meeting in the future with the board and community.

Fidel Quintana
Volunteer, Participant & Brother

Silver City