[reccom] First State Record Criteria

[Kristin Purdy]

Gents,

Are our bylaw criteria for first state records lacking physical evidence too 
stringent and if so, what should they be?

I had an epiphany this weekend when I submitted my 2nd round vote on the 
Gilded Flicker record--our bylaws provide itemized guidance for first state 
records whether or not they're accompanied by physical evidence. I 
conveniently forgot this when I submitted my first round Gilded Flicker 
comments that began with "A detailed written account of a well-seen 
distinctive species would be a reasonable substitute for physical 
evidence...". That was incorrect. Our bylaws itemize the conditions that a 
first state record lacking physical evidence must meet, and my comment 
covers only one of the four conditions.

This year's other closed first state records or potentials in the second 
round had/have physical evidence. The Gilded Flicker record represents the 
first one that I've voted on that must meet stringent criteria because the 
record doesn't include physical evidence. Also, I don't interpret the rules 
to allow the hypothetical category to apply to this record.

I think we're obligated to vote according to the bylaws. Are each of you 
comfortable with the criteria?

Kris