USA Executive Ballots

Revision to Helper Program – Revision 8
E-Ballot #04-12

E-Ballot #4-12 (Revision to Helper Program – Revision 8) Motion by Dennis Vander Linde, seconded by Nathaniel Roque, to approve Helper Program Version 8.0.

Background —

Version	Date	Description	Prime
8.0	05/01/2012	Changed USA to UScA throughout document Revised for new 2012 Trial Rules throughout document Revised Section 4 – Revised to reflect seven (7) or eight (8) members on Helper Committee Revised Section 6.B – Changed to Yearly Reports from Quarterly Reports Added Section 6.L – Added Issuance of Helper Waivers Added Section 6.M – Added manage Helper Program Database Revised Section 10.4 – Changed Evaluation Results to be sent to Helper Program Director Revised Section 10.4 – Changed Evaluation Results to be sent to Helper Program Director Added Section 12.5 – Event Helper Waiver to allow use of an Unclassified Helper under “special” circumstances Revised Section 15.1.A and G – Added exemption possibility for Teaching Helper Applicants located in remote geographical regions (e.g., Alaska, Hawaii and Guam) Added Section 16.1.2, 16.2.2 and 16.4.2 - Included Sieger Show as a National Event covered by the Helper Program (approved by BAC) Revised Section 16.3 – Added that Pre-Selected Helpers shall provide a dog for use in the Helper Tryout at a National Event Revised Section 17.1 – Added stadium passes for Helper Committee Members working the Event Revised Section 17.2 – Incorporated E-Ballot #9-11 (Increase Expense Reimbursement for Helpers at USCA National Events) Added Section 19 – Included UScA-GSDCA WUSV Qualification Trial Helper Process Added Section 20 – Added UScA Helper pre-requisites to participate in AWDF Championship Revised Appendix C – Implemented new Seminar and/or Evaluation Participation and Results Form	D. Vander Linde

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2012 USCA Magazine Bids
E-Ballot #02-12

Motion by Craig Groh, seconded by Jennifer Acevedo, to select and approve one of the two bid proposals submitted for the production of USCA’s magazine “Schutzhund USA” for a two year period. The bid proposals from both companies under consideration are attached.

• Custom Graphics Concepts
• Premier Planning Partners (3P)

Background — In the past USCA has not used any formal process for selecting the company that produces our magazine and this service is not governed by a binding contract.. USCA is now going to utilize a competitive bid process to select the company for the production of USCA’s magazine “Schutzhund USA”. The chosen company will be awarded a two year written contract.

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Helpers for the 2012 USCA Working Dog Championship:
E-Ballot #01-12

Motion by Dennis Vander Linde, seconded by Nathaniel Roque, to approve the USCA Helper Committee’s recommended slate of Pre-selected Helpers for the 2012 USCA Working Dog Championship:

• John Bochenek
• Scott Carlson
• Sean Murphy

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Approve Updated Rules for Universal Sieger and WUSV Universal Sieger Team
E-Ballot #34-11

Motion by Tim Burke, second by Craig Groh, to approve the revised Universal Sieger and WUSV Universal Sieger Team selection regulations. (Regulations attached.)

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Overturn Denial of Event Waiver for Willamette Valley Schutzhund Club
E-Ballot #33-11

Motion by Kevin Nance, seconded by Nancy Brigham, to overturn the PNW regional director's denial of an annual event waiver for Willamette Valley Schutzhund Club for 2011.

Background — On September 13, 2011, Mary Dygert petitioned then PNW Regional Director Warren Jones on behalf of Willamette Valley Schutzhund Club for a 2011 waiver from the requirement to host a sanctioned event. Ms. Dygert indicated the following reasons:

We lost the turf farm for tracking earlier this year; with the crazy weather we've had the farmers are still busy working the fields that we would have had available. WVSC members all have young dogs and none are ready for a title. With the economy the way it is, we can't count on enough outside entries to cover or break even. In all of the years WVSC has been a full member club we've hosted anywhere from one to four events per year. The past couple years that sadly went to only one event per year. This new economy has hit the SchH/show world hard as well.

In the previous year it should further be noted that Willamette Valley Schutzhund Club hosted both the regional conformation show and a working trial. Also, in 2010 and 2011 Mary was very active in supporting USCA national events as secretary for the USCA Sieger Show. Both of these events under her guidance were presented extremely well and a testament to her dedication and talent.

Some parties in the region are adamant regarding the need to adhere to existing bylaw requirements and not grant the waiver. Others are equally adamant that "compassion" for the circumstances surrounding Ms. Dygert's request, her unwavering support for USCA national, regional, and past club events, and existing precedent call for the waiver to be granted at the regional level.

However, in the current regional climate of mutual rancor, the new regional director, Kevin Nance, has indicated a position of summarily denying all such waivers lest he be considered "favoring" one entrenched "camp" over another. Thus, it falls before the Executive Board for redress.

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Approve Slate of Judges for 2012 WDC
E-Ballot #32-11

Motion by Nathaniel Roque, seconded by Jim Alloway, to approve the following slate of judges for the 2012 Working Dog Championships as approved by the USCA Judges Committee

• Tracking – Mike Hamilton (USCA/SV)
• Obedience – Anne Marie Chaffin (USCA/SV)
• Protection – Doug Deacon (CND/SV and GSSCC Head Judge

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2012 USCA-GSD National Championships
E-Ballot #31-11

Motion by Sean O'Kane, seconded by Nancy Brigham, to select Cumberland Valley Schutzhund & Police Club as the host club for the 2012 USCA-GSD National Championships from bid submitted to the National Events Committee

Background — The NEC has reviewed and approved them as a suitable host club.

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Approve Slate of Judges for 2012 WDC
E-Ballot #30-11

Motion by Motion by Jim Alloway, seconded by Dennis Vander Linde, to approve the following slate of judges for the 2012 Working Dog Championships:

• Tracking – Mike Hamilton (USCA/SV)
• Obedience – Anne Marie Chaffin (USCA/SV)
• Protection – Doug Deacon (CND/SV and GSSCC Head Judge

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Waive 21-Day Pre-Notification Period for German Shepherd Schutzhund Club
E-Ballot #29-11

Motion by Kevin Nance, seconded by Nancy Brigham, to waive the 21-day pre-notification period for German Shepherd Schutzhund Club's trial scheduled for Saturday, November 19, 2011.

Background — On September 10, 2011 then PNW Regional Director Warren Jones issued a trial authorization to Lynne Lewis and German Shepherd Schutzhund Club for November 19, 2011. Both the USCA and regional web sites were annotated accordingly.

Due to several legitimate distractions in the days leading up to the notification, Ms. Lewis was remiss in the sub-mission of the required notice, submitting it November 2, 2011.

Some parties in the region are adamant regarding the need to adhere to existing bylaw requirements and not grant the waiver. Others are equally adamant that “compassion” for the circumstances surrounding Ms. Lewis’ oversight, the adverse affect on her club members, and the club’s need for the trial before year end to avoid affiliate status along with adherence to existing precedent calls for the waiver to be granted at the regional level.

However, in the current regional climate of mutual rancor, the current regional director, Kevin Nance, has indicated a position of summarily denying all such waivers lest he be considered “favoring” one entrenched “camp” over another. Thus, it falls before the Executive Board for redress.

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Move 2012 WDC date
E-Ballot #28-11

Motion by Jim Alloway and seconded by Dennis Vander Linde that the 2012 WDC be moved from the current WDC window to the weekend of April 20-22, 2012.

Background — This change of date is requested so that there is a minimum of three weeks between the WDC and the AWDF trial (which is currently slated for the weekend of May 11-13, 2012).

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Approve Judges for 2012 USCA Sieger Show)
E-Ballot #27-11

Motion by Tim Burke, Seconded by Sean O'Kane to approve Frank Goldlust and Johannes Grewe as our USCA Sieger show judges for 2012.

Background — The BAC has reviewed and approved them.

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2012 Working Dog Championships
E-Ballot #26-11

Motion by Nancy Brigham, seconded by Sean O'Kane, to select Mid Ohio SchH Club as the co-host club for the 2012 Working Dog Championships from bid submitted to the National Events Committee

Background — The NEC has reviewed and approved them as a suitable host club.

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Waive 21 day pre notification period for Sugar Run SchH Club
E-Ballot #25-11

Motion by Pedro Jimenez, Seconded by Nancy Brigham to waive the 21 day pre notification period for Sugar Run SchH Club's trial scheduled for Saturday, October, 15, 2011.

Background — Original EAF was issued March 3, 2011. Canceled due to lack of entries on Sept. 5, 2011. The club they were sharing the Judge with has enough entries that they are willing to split the entries with Sugar Run so that they can host their yearly event. The trial date for Sugar Run SchH Club is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 15, 2011. I support this club in their efforts to host this trial. They are in good standing in my region. — Pedro Jimenez.

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Change to 2011 USCA German Shepherd Dog National Championship Slate of Pre-Selected Helpers
E-Ballot #24-11

Motion by Dennis Vander Linde, seconded by Mark Scarberry, to approve Don Yelle to replace Patrick Davis as one of the four (4) pre-selected helpers for the 2011 USCA German Shepherd Dog National Championship.

Background — Patrick Davis sustained an injury and will not be able to perform the helper work in the 2011 USCA German Shepherd Dog National Championship. As such, Patrick has requested that his name be withdrawn from the Slate of Pre-Selected Helpers for the event. The Helper Committee wishes Patrick a full and speedy recovery. Based on a review of the Helper Committee voting results of the helpers who submitted their qualifications to work this event, Don Yelle had the next highest vote total.

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USCA Donation to AWDF Team at FCIIPO Championship
E-Ballot #23-11

Motion by Craig Groh, seconded by Al Govednik, to approve a $5,000 donation by USCA to the 2011 AWDF Team competing at the FCI-IPO Championship.

Background — This year we have five USCA members handling their German shepherd dogs on the AWDF/USA Team at the FCI-IPO Championship. The AWDF Team relies completely on donations to help their team members defer the cost of overseas travel with their dogs. We should support the entire team by making a donation.

Many of you may not be aware that funding for the trip comes primarily from the competitors themselves. Flight, airfare, hotel, rental car, etc. can easily run in excess of $5,000 per competitor. THE TEAM NEEDS OUR HELP! All donations will be equally split among the competitors. All of the collected donations will pass directly through to the competitors—no administrative costs.

The team has not been able to gain any sort of large personal or corporate sponsorships this year. At this time the AWDF is not in a position to provide anything other than entry, trophy, and a few other misc. fees for our international team. Last year the team did quite well, finishing 3rd overall. Supporting the FCI Championship is really in our best interests, as it is also a reflection on the USCA. These are the donations for the FCI team that have been received so far by USCA:

• $100 — Kentucky Ridge Hundesport
• $200 — Ivana Karlsen
• $509 — Hallmark Kennels (Jim Hill)
• $200 — Mideast Region

Some other AWDF member clubs have also made donations to the team.

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Approve slate of judges for 2011 GSD National Championship
E-Ballot #22-11

Motion made by Nancy Brigham, Seconded by Tim Burke to approve the slate of Judges for the 2011 GSD National Championship as recommended by the Judges Committee with the consent of the host club

• Tracking - Al Govednik
• Obedience - Michael Caputo
• Protection - Nathaniel Roque

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2011 USCA German Shepherd Dog National Championship Slate of Helpers
E-Ballot #21-11

Motion by Dennis Vander Linde, seconded by Nathaniel Roque, to approve the USCA Helper Committee’s recommended slate of pre-selected helpers for the 2011 USCA German Shepherd Dog National Championship:

• Kevin Coombs
• Patrick Davis
• Marcus Hampton
• Sean Murphy

Final selection will be determined by helper tryouts as outlined in the USCA Helper Program.

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Waive 21 day pre-notification for Wasatch Hundesport Helper Seminar
E-Ballot #20-11

Motion made by NW Regional Director Mark Hamilton, Seconded by Helper Committee Chair, Dennis Vander Linde to waive the 21 day pre-notification period for Wasatch Hundesport SC Helper Seminar.

Background — This event was scheduled with Teaching Helper, Joel Monroe and all clubs within 500 miles of the hosting club were advised of the event. Unfortunately, being a club with members that are new to the sport, they were unaware of the requirement for an Event Authorization and 21 day advance notification to the region. An Event Authorization Request was submitted 5 days prior to the event.

I believe the club acted as diligently as they knew how and would encourage Executive Board Members to read the supporting documentation for more details on the circumstances. As Regional Director I support the waiver and believe it is important to young helpers, this club, the region and the organization to allow the event to be official and any Helper Certifications earned to be recognized by USCA

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Fee for Non-USCA Apprentice Judges
E-Ballot #19-11

Motion made by Nathaniel Roque and seconded by Al Govednik to add a fee for Non USCA Apprentice Judges in the amount of $ 100.00 per Trial to apprentice either at a USCA Trial or under a USCA Judge.

Background — In the past USCA has always provided at no charge to all AWDF Member Clubs, Judges and training by way of approving apprenticeships and teaching judges to all AWDF Member Clubs, with the increase of clubs starting their own judges programs we are doing more and more apprenticeships for other organizations. This uses USCA Judges resources at the expense of USCA Funds to directly benefit non USCA Clubs.

The reasons that our judges are requested is because we are world recognized, this is due to USCA membership in the WUSV. The WUSV recognizes our judges College because we meet their requirements IE proper apprenticeship, paperwork, an active authorization process. active DOJ as well as yearly meetings (Judges College). Currently the cost to maintain our Judges College is at or above $ 20,000 a year due to the high cost of travel and that we now have 21 judges and apprentices. This cost should not be the sole burden of dues paying USCA members if our judges resources are being used for other organizations benefits, training their judges or allowing our judges to judge their trials. USCA members will not receive much benefit in the near future from the licensing of these other organizations judges since these judges can not be used to judge at a USCA Trial (USCA bylaws require all judges at USCA Event to be USCA, SV or FCI Judges from WUSV Member Clubs). Our members will benefit from additional judges in other organizations by having potential availability to enter a trial and earn a title at another AWDF Club but this title will be accepted the same as we currently accept DVG earned titles it will only count towards a sport title, not valid for Sports Medal Points, SchH 3 Club or Breed Survey.

I believe that the fees being introduced for USCA Services to non USCA members and Clubs are very fair both for the other clubs and for our members. Their is no reason to support USCA as a member if you can get all of the benefits for free. In order for USCA to continue to provide support to our membership and to our AWDF Member Clubs services must be compensated. USCA has long been supporting all AWDF member clubs through supporting the lions share of the dues to support AWDF Activities and by providing access to USCA Events, providing judges and training and will continue to do so.

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Amend USCA Aggressive Dog Policy
E-Ballot #18-11

Motion made by Warren Jones and seconded by Craig Groh to adopt the amendments made to the USCA Aggressive Dog policy as shown in the attached document. Click to view document

Background — With the recent incident a the Working Dog Championships (2011), it became apparent that USCA lacked a mechanism to prevent a handler from entering a truly dangerous animal in subsequent trials. The Aggressive Dog Policy is proposed to be amended by making some minor typographical changes and adding the following two sentences:

"If a dog bite incident is sufficiently severe or there is reason for the Director Of Judges to believe that the dog represents a significant menace to the public, the DOJ may refer the incident to the Judges' Committee, who may upgrade the offense to a second or third offense level. Any such increase in penalty must be approved by the Executive Board."

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USCA Recognition of WPBTCA Judges Program and Titles for the American Pit Bull Terrier ONLY
E-Ballot #17-11

Motion by Nathaniel Roque, seconded by Al Govednik, to amend E-Ballot #10-09 (Recognition of WPBTCA Judges Program and Titles) to:

USCA will recognize WPBTCA (Working Pitbull Terrier Club of America) judges, judges program, and titles awarded by their judges only when awarded to the American Pit Bull Terrier in a WPTCA/AWDF-issued scorebook. These titles will be recognized by USCA for the American Pit Bull Terrier exclusively for sport purposes and will not count toward any USCA-based program (Sports Medals, SchH3 Club).

Titles earned at WPBTCA events under WPBTCA judges will not be recognized by USCA when awarded to any other breed of dog.

Background — The WPBTCA has a judges program in place, but this program does not meet the requirements to receive reciprocity with the USCA judges program as it was previously approved. At this time, the WPBTCA does not have any affiliation with a recognized WUSV, FCI, or AZG organization; and, therefore, cannot be properly recognized by WUSV or FCI member clubs.

Currently AWMA and DVG also have set precedence to not accept WPBTCA judges for their events or titles

By allowing the acceptance of WPBTCA-awarded titles exclusively for the Working Pit Bull Terrier, we continue to support our AWDF member club without impacting the validity of our, or any other, FCI/WUSV-recognized program. This motion will also help establish a precedence for future "non-recognized" organizations that may join the AWDF.

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Approve the Fiscal year 2012 Budget
E-Ballot #16-11

Motion by Sean O'Kane, seconded by Craig Groh, to approve the fiscal year 2012 budget with total income $561,025.00, total expenses $560,550.00 (including taxes), and net income of $475.00

2012 Budget (PDF File)

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Enforce Dog Agression Policy 3rd offense
E-Ballot #15-11

Motion made by Nathaniel Roque and seconded by Al Govednik to enforce the USCA Dog Agression Policy regarding the incident at the 2011 WDC involving USCA member Dennis Green , USCA Member #16624, and his GSD Gabe vom Geistwasser, USCA Scorebook #26745, and USCA Member and Apprentice Judge Bill Bimrose.

Background — It is the recommendation of the USCA Judges Committee after reviewing the reports of the incident that the USCA Dog Agression Policy 3rd level of sanction be imposed on this member and dog due to the unreported previous incidents involving this team as well as the members apparent lack of responsibility and disregard for the safety of those exposed to them and the severity of the "bite".

In investigating this incident it was stated by the handler that this dog has bitten at least 2 other people at a local pet store, it has also been stated that this handler is aware of the aggression problems with this dog and does not responsibly handle the issue.

This incident was also witnessed at the WDC by prospective sponsors from John Deere for our events and severely damaged our position with this sponsor.

Additional background reports may be disbursed to EB members under confidentially from the Judge, and witness if requested.

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Waive 2011 Regional requirement for USCA GSD National
E-Ballot #14-11

Motion by Nathaniel Roque, seconded by Jim Alloway to waive the 2011 Regional requirement to attend the USCA GSD National for those handler/dog teams that participate in the inaugural 2011 WUSV Qualification Trial.

Background — With the added Qualification trial each year for those attempting to make the WUSV Team it is important to lessen the burden on these handler/dog teams by not making them attend a Regional Event prior to the USCA GSD National. These handler/dog teams have already met the minimum score of 270 by virtue of being in the Qualification Trial. (This is a minimum score to participate in the Qualification Trial as well) This motion will lessen this burden effective for the first year only. The USCA EB will develop an updated qualification process for 2012 and beyond to address this situation

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Waive 21 day prenotification period for MPSC
E-Ballot #13-11

Motion submitted by NW Regional Director Mark Hamilton, Seconded by Nathaniel Roque. To waive the 21 day prenotification period for MPSC previously scheduled Conformation Show and Breed Survey.

Background — This event was previously scheduled and proper notice was sent to the region. Due to the original judge canceling, the event was canceled and notice sent to the region. USCA liaison Steff Dunion was later able to obtain a SV Judge for these dates and the club would like to hold the event. New notice (15 days) has been sent to the region to notify them that the event is going to take place

As Regional Director, (NW Regional Director Mark Hamilton), I support the waiver and believe it is important to the region and organization to allow the event to take place.

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Amend 2011 Budget
E-Ballot #12-11

Motion by Sean O'Kane and Seconded by Craig Groh to amend the 2011 Budget to include budgeted revenue of $3850.00 and expenditures of $3955.00 for the upcoming WUSV Qualification Trial in Kentucky.

Background — With the new qualification process set forth by the WUSV we must now conduct a Qualification Trial. This was not known at the time this year's budget was set. USCA will be hosting this in odd number years. Future events will be included with the yearly budget.

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Allow SchH 2 teams to compete for SchH 3 title at the 2011 WDC
E-Ballot #11-11

Motion by Al Govednik seconded by Nathaniel Roque to allow SchH 2 teams the opportunity to compete for SchH 3 title at the Working Dog Championships in Davenport, IA, May 13-15, 2011.

Background — Due to the late winter in the northern part of the country, there simply has not been the same opportunities for members in that part of the country to trial. This motion is to help boost entries and support for the Working Dog Championships for 2011.

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Approve updated USCA breed survey regulationst
E-Ballot #10-11

Motion made by Tim Burke and seconded by Sean O'Kane to approve the updated regulations to our existing USCA breed survey regulations. See attachment — Revised Breed Survey Regulations .

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Increase Expense Reimbursement for Helpers at USCA National Events
E-Ballot #9-11

Motion by Dennis Vander Linde, seconded by Sean O'Kane, to increase the expense reimbursement limit for helpers pre-selected to perform the helper work at USCA National Events from $500 to $750.

Background — At present, the expense reimbursement limit is $500, based on the receipts received, for the helpers who are pre-selected to tryout and perform the helper work at USCA National Events. Over the past several years the travel, lodging and meal expenses for the majority of the helpers has exceeded the $500 limit. This motion is to increase the expense reimbursement limit to $750, which is consistent with the limit provided to USCA Line Officers for attendance at the USCA General Board

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2011 USCA Working Dog Championships Slate of Helpers
E-Ballot #08-11

Motion by Dennis Vander Linde, seconded by Nathaniel Roque, to approve the USCA Helper Committee’s recommended slate of helpers for the 2011 USCA Working Dog Championships

• Don Yelle
• Marcus Hampton
• Kevin Coombs

Final selection will be determined by helper tryouts as outlined in the USCA Helper Program.

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title of ballot
E-Ballot #7-11

Motion by Craig Groh, seconded by Dennis Vander Linde to accept the 2011 FCI Declaration form.

Background — The AWDF / FCI Declaration Form changes were presented by Committee Chair Mike Diehl of the World Championship Committee for consideration. The FCI and WUSV Declaration forms have been separated this year due to changes in the process for selection of both the FCI and WUSV Teams.

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WUSV and FCI Declaration Form Approval
E-Ballot #6-11

Motion by Craig Groh, seconded by Dennis Vander Linde to accept the WUSV and FCI Declaration form, See attached forms.

Background — With the changes to the qualification process to make the WUSV World Team representing the United States changes were enacted by the World Championship Committee. These changes were presented by WCC Chair Mike Diehl for consideration

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2011 USCA-GSD National Championship
E-Ballot #05-10

Motion by Jeff Govednik, seconded by Nancy Brigham, to select Tornado Alley SchH Club as the co-host club for the 2011 USCA-GSD National Championship from bid submitted to the National Events Committee

Background — The NEC has reviewed and approved them as a suitable host club.

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Judges for the 2011 USCA Sieger Show
E-Ballot #04-11

Motion made by Tim Burke seconded by Nathaniel Roque to approve the BAC recommendation of SV Judge Bernd Weber to judge the male classes and USCA Judge Karen MacIntyre to judge the female classes at the USCA Sieger show in Irvine, TX April 29 to May 1, 2011

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2011 USCA-GSD National Championship
E-Ballot #03-10

Motion by Martin Vollrath, seconded by Nancy Brigham, to select Tornado Alley SchH Club as the co-host club for the 2011 USCA-GSD National Championship from bid submitted to the National Events Committee.

Background — The NEC has reviewed and approved them as a suitable host club.

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Gilliland vs Anacapa Working Dog Association Appeal
E-Ballot #02-11

Motion by Dennis Vander Linde, seconded by Jim Alloway, to uphold the Board of Inquiry's (BOI) determination in the case of Gilliland vs Anacapa Working Dog Association. Also the appeal of the BOI determination in this case submitted by the accuser has been denied by the Directors At Large.

Background

The Board of Inquiry has reviewed the charges filed by Christine Gilliland against Anacapa Working Dog Association and unanimously has determined the charges of violation of bylaws, breach of agreement, unethical and unsportsmanlike conduct are not relevant as they do not involve USCA trials or other USCA functions. Each individual club has the right to disciplinary procedures as long as those procedures are performed according to the club bylaws. Per the Anacapa Working Dog Association's bylaws, the club has final authority over all disciplinary matters.

The preferred charges do not involve conduct that is prejudicial to the interests of USCA, and do not involve a violation of USCA rules. USCA's bylaws state "disciplinary action taken by a local club against a member or members of that club is an internal affair of the club."

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Change Administrative Fees for Trial Entries
E-Ballot #01-11

Motion made by Nathaniel Roque and seconded by Al Govednik to change the Administrative fee for Trial entries from a flat fee of $ 4.00 for each entry to a two tiered fee schedule to benefit USCA Membership.

Maintain the $4.00 fee for USCA members entered into a USCA Trial and add a non-member fee paid to the USCA Office for all non-USCA members entered in a USCA Trial to $ 15.00 per entry. Effective March 1, 2011 (to allow time for the clubs to develop a policy and USCA to include Membership info on the Trial Score sheet).

Background — The current fee is $4.00 per entry for all entries. There should be benefits to USCA Membership and one of these should be lower entry fees to members. With the increased cost of maintaining Judges, hosting trials etc these expenses should be shouldered by all entering our events. Our USCA members already support the organization through their membership. Non-USCA members should be charged a slightly increased fee to help maintain the costs associated with our events. There must be benefits to membership otherwise, why join, just use the organization for free.

Suggestions for implementing: The USCA Score Sheet will be updated to include membership Info. For all entries with USCA Membership a $ 4.00 fee will be submitted (as has always been completed) for non USCA membership a $ 15.00 fee will be submitted to the USCA Office. I encourage the Clubs to carry this over to their entry fees to cover the costs of hosting a trial by having a two tiered entry fee; example Entry to ScHH1 $50.00 for USCA Member and $ 70.00 for Non USCA member with $ 15.00 going to USCA and the Club earning an additional $ 5.00 for hosting an event allowing Non Members benefit from our resources (Judges,venues, publications etc)

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Approve the May Universal Sieger competition as a USCA authorized event
E-Ballot #26-10

Motion made by Tim Burke and seconded by Craig Groh to approve the May Universal Sieger competition as a USCA authorized event to select the USCA Universal Sieger Team for the WUSV competition.

Background — The WUSV is hosting a Universal Sieger competition June 24 - 26, 2011 in Austria. Each Country is allowed to send up to six participants. A country must have at least three teams and one dog must be a bitch. USCA does not currently have a mechanism in place to select a team for this event. We currently have a Universal Sieger selection process. This new competition will not effect this program at this time. This event is for USCA to select a team to send to the WUSV event.

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Add Authorization Fee for non-USCA events
E-Ballot #25-10

Motion by Nathaniel Roque, seconded by Al Govednik, to add an Authorization fee for the use of USCA judges for non-USCA Club and National events.

1. Effective January 1, 2011, all non-USCA Clubs or Organizations will be charged a "Judges Authorization Fee" to schedule a USCA-licensed judge for their events. The fee will be $50.00 for Club events and $100.00 for Championship events.
2. All non-USCA Clubs or Organizations requesting the use of a USCA-licensed Judge will contact the current USCA Director of Judges for approval and on receipt of the required fee to the USCA office the USCA DOJ will release the authorization to the Club or Organization.
3. Excluded from this "Judges Authorization Fee" is the German Shepherd Schutzhund Club of Canada, due to our existing reciprocity agreement with them for sharing judges.

Background: The USCA Judges College provides world-recognized judges for use at trials and shows. The expense of maintaining the quality of our Judges falls on the USCA Organization and its Membership in the form of funding the Judges College.

Often times due to our Judges scheduling themselves to judge outside of USCA, they are not available to accept an assignment for a USCA Club.

One of the benefits of USCA Club membership is and will continue to be easy access to scheduling our judges at a much reduced cost to the clubs over using foreign judges.

The USCA is happy and willing to help provide judges for all AWDF Member Organizations, the FCI and WUSV organizations throughout the world. The burden of expense or availability should not fall on our membership.

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Move WDC Date
E-Ballot #24-10

Motion by Al Govednik, seconded by Sean O'Kane, to move the date of the WDC. The event would run from Friday, May 13th through Sunday May 15, 2011.

Background — The date of May 13th through May 15, 2011, is the only date available during this time frame for the venue we have selected.

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2011 WDC approved Judges
E-Ballot #23-10

Motion by Nathaniel Roque, seconded by Nancy Brigham, to approve the following judges for the 2011 Working Dog Championships as approved by the Judges Committee and the host club:

• Tracking ­ Craig Groh (USA/SV)
• Obedience ­ Johannes Grewe (USA/SV)
• Protection ­ Günter Lanfer (SV)

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Expense Reimbursement for Sean Murphy, Helper for the 2010 WDC
E-Ballot #22-10

Motion by Dennis Vander Linde, seconded by Sean O'Kane, to reimburse Sean Murphy, in the amount of $469.66, for his travel and hotel expenses incurred to perform the helper work at the 2010 USCA Working Dog Championships.

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GSD National Championship Waiver for Tanna Ragan
E-Ballot #21-10

Motion by Nathaniel Roque, seconded by Sara Wallick, to accept the entry from Tanna Ragan for the 2010 GSD National Championship.

Background: This member obtained a qualifying score at a USA trial and then attempted to compete at the Pacific Northwest Regional Championship, but her dog was ill. When she checked in for a phase of the event with the judge, she was excused due to the dog being ill. She asked at the time if she needed to show the dog to meet the qualifying requirements for the GSD National Championship and was told by the three judges and the regional director in attendance that she had fulfilled the requirements to enter the GSD National Championship. In interviewing two of the judges at the event, they both stated that the dog was sick but could have started the phase of the competition if needed; but they did not think it was necessary and that it was better to excuse it at check in than after a couple of exercises.

The USA Regional Policy clearly states that the dog must enter and show to include starting in at least one phase of the event and that a dog that is previously injured or sick does not qualify. USA Regional Policy: “To qualify for participation, the handler/dog team at a minimum must begin one or more phases of the trial. If while participating the dog is pulled due to injury or illness, the process outlined under Section D “Pulling a Dog from a Trial” under General Rules and Regulations in the USA Trial Rules will apply. A notation in the scorebook of “terminated (or discontinued) because of injury or illness” is acceptable to qualify for participation. A handler/dog team that cannot attempt the exercises or achieve a partial score due to a pre-existing injury is not qualified as having participated. Disqualification for unsportsmanlike conduct does not qualify as participation.”

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GSD National Championship Waiver for Meridith Vallillo Late Entry
E-Ballot #20-10

Motion by Nathaniel Roque, seconded by Frank Phillips, to accept the late entry for Meridith Vallillo to enter and handle her husband’s dog "Orion" in the 2010 GSD National Championship.

Background:This handler/member qualified this dog by handling him to obtain a qualifying score and entering him in the Northeastern Regional Championship. The entry was accidentally sent to the USA Office two days late due to personal problems.

Meridith’s husband, Gary D’Hue, who was the original handler/owner of the dog, has been hospitalized with Stage 4 lymphoma and had asked Meridith to show the dog for him at the GSD National Championship. In all of the stress and confusion of Gary's illness, Meridith thought that Gary had mailed the entry and did not realize it was not sent until after the deadline. This handler already had tickets and lodging reservations and is doing this at her husband’s request. The entry has been sent to the USA Office and is postmarked two days post closing date.

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2010 USA-GSD National Championship Slate of Helpers Change
E-Ballot #19-10

Motion by Nathaniel Roque, seconded by Sara Wallick, to approve Joe Brockington to replace Clark Niemetalo as one of the preselected helpers for the 2010 USA-GSD National Championship.

Background: Clark Niemetalo notified Helper Committee Chairman, Dennis Vander Linde, that he would not be able to work the event due to personal reasons. The Helper Committee reviewed the existing short list of helpers for this event and voted to invite Joe Brockington to replace Clark Niemetalo for the event.

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GSD National Championship Waiver for Beth Bradley
E-Ballot #18-10

Motion by Nathaniel Roque, seconded by Sara Wallick, to grant a waiver of the GSD National Championship regional participation requirement to Beth Bradley. Beth had just finished practice at the Northeast Regional Championship on Friday when she received a call saying her father was gravely ill, and she left the championship to join him (who was a three-hour drive away). Her father did not survive, and passed away half an hour after she arrive.

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BOI Case: Mathew Levin v. Grewe/Phillips/Roetemeyer/Wallick
E-Ballot #17-10

Motion by David Witmer, seconded by Jeff Govednik, to accept the determination/recommendation of the Board of Inquiry in the case of Mathew Levin v. Grewe/Phillips/Roetemeyer/Wallick with the exception of charges #4 and #5. As the Board of inquiry failed to reach a decision for charges #4 and #5 as mandated by the USA Bylaws, and as the period for declining to consider the allegations had passed, the Executive Board agrees with the dissenting opinion and modifies the determination/recommendation for charges #4 and #5 as not sustained. Also, the appeal of the BOI determination in this case submitted by the accuser has been denied by the Directors at Large.

BOI DETERMINATION/RECOMMENDATION

Listing of charges provided by USA Secretary:

"You have filed charges against four USA members (which requires a $200 deposit for each charge), and you have filed additional allegations against both Johannes Grewe and Frank Phillips (which requires a deposit of $50 for each additional allegation.)"

Upon addressing the listed charges above, the Board of Inquiry (BOI) determined that the additional charge against Mr. Phillips is superfluous. Mr. Phillips is charged with voting in favor of a motion and later in the document is listed a second time for voting at the General Board meeting (GBM), which we believe lead to the interpretation of an additional charge. In the BOI's opinion, Mr. Phillips should only be charged one time for voting at the GBM.

• Charge #1:

  Mr. Grewe is charged with violating USA's bylaws when he rose at the GBM in Iowa and presented several motions to the voting members for discussion and vote.

• Charge #2:

  Mr. Roetemeyer is charged with violating USA's bylaws when he recognized Mr. Grewe and gave him the floor to present his aforementioned motions.

• Charge #3:

  Ms. Wallick is charged with violating USA's bylaws when she counted the votes for the motion presented by Mr. Grewe for consideration at the GBM.

• Charge #4:

  Mr. Phillips is charged with violating USA's bylaws when he voted in favor of Article IV, Section 2 motion that Mr. Grewe presented for a vote at the GBM.

• Charge #5:

  Mr. Grewe further violated USA's bylaws by voting in favor of the motions he presented.

The Board of Inquiry recommendation:

1. Dismiss the additional charge placed on Mr. Phillips and return the $50 deposit to Mr. Levin
2. The BOI does not find willful violation on the part of the defendants and does not recommend disciplinary action, unanimously
3. Charges #1-3 are not sustained, unanimously.
4. Charges #4-5 received four votes of "non-decision" and one vote of "not sustained"

   All members agree that the bylaws with regard to the voting rights of the Directors at Large are ambiguous. Parliamentarian opinion was rendered in this case and specifically addressed the ambiguity.

   The four votes of "non-decision" are in agreement with the Parliamentarian opinion that interpreting and rendering a decision on this bylaw ambiguity is not within the scope of this Board. Bylaw and Constitution matters should be discussed properly through either the Bylaws Committee or before the GBM. Policy-making matters (i.e., determining Director at Large voting rights) require the input of the general membership and should be decided by the GBM. The majority BOI on this vote was placed with the specific intent of not labeling the recommendation as "sustained" or "not sustained" in order to remain non-influential in any subsequent motions or actions arising from this ambiguity.

   The "not sustained" vote is in agreement with the Parliamentarian opinion that challenging voting rights is to be completed before the last vote is cast.

5. It is the recommendation of this BOI that USA hire a professional parliamentarian and/or attorney before the next general board meeting, and annually thereafter, to examine the bylaws as they are written and recommend changes to alleviate any ambiguities in the future.
6. It is the recommendation of this Board of Inquiry that USA investigate the matter of how the defendants' response document was made available to parties outside of the BOI, the defendants, and council.

During the course of these proceedings, information presented itself that would indicate a breach of confidentiality in that the defendants' response document was made available to parties outside of the BOI, the defendants, and council. However, the BOI agreed unanimously that the unsolicited information was not admissible and would not be taken into consideration in the case.

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2010 USA-GSD National Championship Slate of Judges)
E-Ballot #16-10

Motion by Nathaniel Roque, seconded by Sara Wallick, to approve the USA Judges Committee’s recommended slate of judges for the 2010 USA-GSD National Championship:

Tracking – Carla Griffith (USA, USA/SV)
Obedience – Al Govednik (USA, FCI)
Protection – Mike Hamilton (USA, USA/SV)
IPO FH – Ann Marie Chaffin (USA, FCI, USA/SV) and Carla Griffith (USA, USA/SV)

Assisting will be:
Ann Marie Chaffin (USA, FCI, USA/SV) – Long down judge
Andrea Duggan (USA Probationary Performance Judge) – Tattoo and line check at tracking

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Qualifying Score for USA-GSD National Championship
E-Ballot #15-10

Motion by Nathaniel Roque, seconded by Al Govednik, to accept a 270 or greater IPO, VPG, or SchH score as a qualifying score for the USA-GSD National Championship. The current rules state SchH and do not specify an IPO or VPG is acceptable.

Background: In the past, IPO scores were not accepted because IPO rules prior to the 2004 rule changes were different in some of the exercises than SchH. Since the IPO rule changes, and with the upcoming integration of IPO, VPG, and SchH into one common name; it is and will be more correct to allow a score of 270 or greater at a USA event from the IPO, VPG, or SchH to be accepted for entry in the USA-GSD National Championship. We have had members who have earned an IPO3 with 270 or greater and assumed they are qualified for the USA-GSD National Championship (this happened to me in 2001 with my dog Saber -- Al Govednik); and then when the entry opened they were forced to scramble for a SchH trial to try to qualify. With the IPO, VPG, and SchH virtually the same, this motion would only help to close an oversight from past differences in the rules.

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Competitor Dress Code for USA National Events
E-Ballot #14-10

Motion by Nathaniel Roque, seconded by Craig Groh, to approve the USA Judges Committee recommendation to institute a Competitor Dress Code for National Events:

COMPETITOR DRESS CODE FOR USA NATIONAL EVENTS

All competitors entered in any USA national event — (Sieger Show, Working Dog Championship, GSD National Championship), must adhere to a basic dress code:

Dress code for stadium phases (obedience, protection, show ring, protection test, and awards ceremony):

• Collared shirt (examples are button shirts or polo shirts [no t-shirts]).
• Pants (examples are khakis, BDU, or Dockers [no jeans]).
• Jackets, windbreakers, or rain suits are acceptable if required by the weather.
• Team or competitor uniforms are acceptable in the form of a workout suit, athletic outfit, etc

Dress code for tracking phase

• Jeans or Levis are acceptable if necessary due to conditions; suggested attire is the same as the stadium phases.

At all times the competitor must make every effort to maintain a clean and presentable image for the organization.

Background When the United Schutzhund Clubs of America hosts national events, these events are the showcase of our organization. Competitors in these events are featured in photographs in our magazine and represent our organization. Because of this, the USA Judges Committee proposes adopting a basic dress code for national events.

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Judges Program Revision to Allow Additional Travel Day
E-Ballot 12-10

Motion by Nathaniel Roque, seconded by Sara Wallick, to allow any authorized judge for a USA performance trial/breed show/breed survey/seminar to add one (1) additional day of travel expense at the approved rate (currently $100) for his/her return travel day if that day is scheduled on a non-event day (day after the trial/show/survey/seminar). Travel expense may only be charged if the travel takes place on a day when there is no event being conducted. A judge may only charge the approved rate per day to include either judging fees or travel expense.

Background: An example of the use of this charge would be when a judge is scheduled to work a Saturday and Sunday event and travel is scheduled for arrival on Friday and departure on Monday. At the judge’s discretion, he/she may charge for one day of travel to arrive and one day of travel to depart plus the two days of the event.

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2010 GSD National Championship Slate of Helpers
E-Ballot 11-10

Motion by Nathaniel Roque, seconded by Sara Wallick, to approve the USA Helper Committee’s recommended slate of helpers for the 2010 GSD National Championship:

• Patrick Davis
• Clark Niemetalo
• Steve Romard
• Don Yelle

Final selection will be determined by helper tryouts on the Wednesday preceding the event as outlined in the USA Helper Program.

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Fiscal Year 2011 Budget
E-Ballot #10-10

Motion by Sean O’Kane, seconded by Craig Groh, to approve the fiscal year 2011 budget with total income $573,510, total expenses $544,695, income tax expense $11,500, and net income $17,315. ( Click here to view Budget).

Background from Treasurer Sean O’Kane: With the downturn in the economy, the loss of corporate sponsorship, and a decrease in income in other areas, including membership, we are faced with a budget that in order to balance will require either a dramatic decrease in expenses and services or an increase in income. While expenses have been cut in many areas, the only way to balance this budget and keep services that we are all used to is by increasing our dues. We are faced with antiquated equipment and software at the USA Office and a website in desperate need of replacement.

All these needs cost money. This budget is the first step toward upgrading USA’s infrastructure. This budget is the first step toward insuring USA’s future is secure so we can not only provide the members with services they have become accustomed to, but provide them with additional services that are badly needed. A new website to increase communications to all members, provide a members area to view our magazine, update their contact information, and even renew their membership will be a part of the upgrade. This database-driven website will also replace the current software used at the USA Office to keep track of trial results, membership, and dog registration information.

With this dues increase, which must be voted on in a bylaw change at our General Board meeting in Reno, we will have a net income of approximately $17,000. This money and reserve funds will be used to make these much-needed upgrades.

Background from Vice President Craig Groh: While this year may not be the best time to increase our organization’s dues for various reasons, it is long overdue. USCA has not increased our dues in the last 14 years, since 1996. Inflation alone has reduced the buying power of the US dollar from 1996 to 2010 by almost 40%. The average item that cost you $60.00 in 1996 now costs you $83.50. Essentially, the cost of running the organization has increased by 40% over the last 14 years, while our revenue has remained flat. We have been able to accomplish this by “doing more with less.” While we have been able to improve the efficiency of the organization, and will continue to do so, the well is running dry.

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2011 USA Working Dog Championship
E-Ballot #9-10

Motion by Sean O’Kane, seconded by Sara Wallick, to select Machtig Strom SchH Verein as the co-host club for the 2011 USA Working Dog Championship from one bid submitted to the National Events Committee

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USA Helper Book Price Increase
E-Ballot #08-10

Motion by Mark Scarberry, seconded by Nathaniel Roque, to increase the price of USA Helper Books to $10 and to charge $15 for replacement books in order to bring the costs more in line with that of USA Scorebooks.

Background: Helper books currently cost $5, and no fee is charged for replacement books; while scorebooks currently cost $10, and a fee of $12.50 is charged for replacement books. The USA Helper Committee believes that charging $10 for helper books and $15 for replacements is reasonable.

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2010 USA Working Dog Championships Slate of Helpers Change
E-Ballot #07-10

Motion by Nathaniel Roque, seconded by Sara Wallick, to approve Sean Murphy to replace Marcus Hampton as one of the three preselected helpers for the 2010 Working Dog Championships.

Background: Marcus Hampton has been involved in an automobile accident and is recovering from injuries sustained in that accident, but will not be fit to work this event.

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Budget Amendment for Working Dog Championships
E-Ballot #06-10

Motion by Mark Scarberry, seconded by Sean O’Kane, to amend the 2009–2010 budget under the National Events line item for the Working Dog Championships in the amount of $19,500.

Background: With the change in the administration of our Working Dog Championships and GSD National Championship, money must be allocated for the WDC. The original budget allowed $5,500 for each of these events. We are asking for a total of $25,000 for each event. This includes a change in income and expenses for our current 2009–2010 budget. This process is a work in progress and needs to remain dynamic as we try to put on national events we can all be proud of. Included below is the language from the vote at the 2009 General Board meeting:

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Internationale Rettungshunde Organisation (IRO) Application by USA
E-Ballot #5-10

Motion by Nathaniel Roque, seconded by Sara Wallick, to approve the United Schutzhund Clubs of America’s application to become a member of the Internationale Rettungshunde Organisation (IRO).

Background

IRO is the international organization that is developing and governing the search and rescue programs and certification specifically for USA. This is the organization that sets the rules and standards for the RH title.

It is important for USA to continue to develop and maintain all working aspects of the GSD, and one of these is in the working evaluation of the dogs’ search and rescue ability. The RH title is a valid and internationally accepted test to determine this ability in our dogs.

At this time we already have a number of our USA judges who are approved to judge this title, and we have had a growing interest by our membership and number of RH titles awarded in the United States.

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2010 USA-GSD National Championship Host
E-Ballot #4-10

Selection of host club for 2010 USA-GSD National Championship from two bids submitted to the National Events Committee

Bids submitted by:

• Blue Tahoe Schutzhund Club (Reno, NV)
• Mid-Ohio Schutzhund Club (Columbus, OH)

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USA Sports Medal Program Revision
E-Ballot #3-10

Motion by Frank Phillips, seconded by Al Govednik, to approve the revised USA Sports Medal Program.

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Updated USA Breed Show Regulations
E-Ballot #2-10

Motion by Tim Burke, seconded by Craig Groh, to approve the updated USA Breed Show Regulations as proposed by the Breed Advisory Committee.

BackGround This is an update to add long stock coat classes and for clarifications, grammatical changes, renumbering, and organizational changes.

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2010 USA Working Dog Championships Slate of Helpers
E-Ballot #1-10

Motion by Nathaniel Roque, seconded by Sara Wallick, to approve the USA Helper Committee’s recommended slate of helpers for the 2010 USA Working Dog Championships:

• Marcus Hampton
• Lionel Madden
• Don Yelle

The final selection and placement of the helpers will be determined by a helper tryout prior to the start of the event as outlined in the USA Helper Program.

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