Chipoat,
There is a difference.
I'm just a lowly member.
I am not an expert on any specific architect, nor have I written books on architecture and architects.
Geoff is an expert or at least a recognized authority on Thomas, the architect responsible for Riviera, and Geoff belongs to Riviera.
If I was an expert or the recognized authority on Wilson, Tucker, Von Hagge, Travis and Emmett, and had written published books on those architects and belonged to a club that one of them designed, I would imagine that I would be consulted with respect to any proposed changes.
And, if I wasn't approached, I'm sure that I'd offer my services. And, if my services were rejected, I'd offer a position paper to the club. And, if that was rejected, I'd offer a position paper to the architect. Knowing in my heart of hearts that I did all I could to restore, protect and preserve the architecture.
I just don't understand how a nationally known figure, an expert, a recognized authority on Thomas got left out of the loop at Riviera.
Why wouldn't the members take Geoff's banner to the owner and architect ?
I'm puzzled by the entire matter.