Executive Board Ballots 2007
Vote results reported as Yes, No, NFD (needs further discussion), ABS (abstain), or NR (no response).
E-Ballot #36-07
(Budget Approval for Dog World Advertisement)
Motion by Bill Plumb to approve up to $4,000 for a series of four full-page advertisements in Dog World magazine beginning with the March 2008 issue. This special price of $1,000 per issue is discounted from the normal price of $1,800. USA and the WUSV 2008 World Championship will be featured in the ads. There is $3,000 in the budget for advertising, and the additional $1,000 will be paid from cash reserves.
Vote: Yes–21 (Lyle Roetemeyer, Randall Hoadley, Sara Wallick, Bill Plumb, Mark Przybylski, Tim Burke, Al Govednik, Frank Phillips, Terry Macias, Howie Rodriguez, Nathaniel Roque, Pia Blackwell, Steve Cobb, Arthur Collins, Gordon Esselmann, Scott Hedger, Pedro Jimenez, Michelle Kutelis, Lynne Lewis, Mark Scarberry, David Witmer). Motion carried unanimously 12/25/07.
E-Ballot #35-07
(Pending)
E-Ballot #34-07
(BOI Case: June Sexton v. Laurie Stupak)
Motion by Sara Wallick to accept the determination and recommendation of the Board of Inquiry in the case of June Sexton v. Laurie Stupak:
This case is about Stupak’s actions as RMGP Regional Secretary Sexton states Stupak’s actions caused the election to be invalid. Stupak’s behavior is rendered moot by the dissolution/elimination/absorption of the region (RMGP), particularly as that election and its irregularities are among the factors that led to the Executive Board decision. Stupak’s various emails to the region were confusing and/or ambiguous regarding the “rules of conduct” for the election, setting the stage for a mess.
Also, Stupak’s inclusion and acceptance of the faxed ballots was in violation of the USA Bylaws. Stupak’s actions were questionable regarding the handling of ballots in general, and Twin Peak’s ballot in particular.
CHARGES 1. Stupak caused the RMGP election to be invalid by ignoring USA Bylaw. – Charge is sustained.
• The evidence shows that Stupak received ballots via USA mail or fax.
• Stupak also admits and apologizes for her mistake by allowing faxed ballots.
• The RMGP Region has been dissolved; therefore the charges are invalid.
2. Stupak did not conduct elections by secret ballot causing further problems. – Charge is not sustained.
• There is no evidence to prove that the balloting was not conducted in secret, although secret implies that no one knows how anyone voted.
• The RMGP balloting may have been “confidential,” because only Stupak knew who voted, and how.
There is no evidence Stupak told anyone else what she knew about the votes.
• The RMGP Regional Bylaws did not provide guidelines for balloting.
• USA Bylaws, Article X, Section 6 establishes rules for elections and deadlines for nominations.
Delegate letters are not defined.
• Regional Director John Oliver decided that only official club contacts (listed in the magazine) would be considered as official club representative for voting.
CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS This Board believes that Stupak’s actions were detrimental, but rendered moot by the dissolution of the region. This Board does not recommend any disciplinary action against Stupak.
The Board of Inquiry believes that every club in a region should have the right and opportunity to vote.
The USA Bylaws require clubs to be notified 30 days prior to any regional meeting or election. This Board recommends that the region consider a 60–90 day notice instead, giving the regional clubs ample time to send a delegate with voting privileges to the meeting or to nominate a candidate(s) for office. This Board recommends that all regional bylaws/guidelines should specify a quorum; i.e., USA Bylaws state a quorum (percentage of clubs) must be met, or regions must reference USA Bylaws when confirming a regional quorum. The USA Bylaws already provide for mail ballots. It is the recommendation of this Board that the Executive Board consider a bylaw change by adding to the USA Bylaws the procedure for mail ballot elections as shown below.
MAIL BALLOT PROCEDURES FOR ELECTIONS 1. Mail ballot counting for elections need to be secret.
2. The announcement for a mail ballot election is to be made via the Regional Director by USPS mail, email, and/or fax not less than thirty (30) days prior to the closing date of the election.
3. The announcement must state: The Region will conduct the 200– officer elections per USA Bylaws via USPS mail. Offices to be elected are: Regional Director, Assistant Regional Director, Regional Secretary, Regional Breed Warden, and Regional Training Director.
Executive Board Ballots–2007 2 of 8 Updated December 26, 2007 4. All ballots must be returned to the Regional Secretary via USPS mail only with certified return receipt/confirmation of delivery and postmarked no more than thirty (30) days after announcement.
Faxed or emailed ballots will not be allowed or recognized.
5. Only official club delegates from full-member clubs will be permitted to vote in the election.
6. Club contacts listed on the USA website will be considered the official club delegate unless the Regional Director is notified otherwise.
7. Clubs may change contacts through the Regional Director via USPS mail, fax, or email.
8. Nominations and seconds to the nominations may only be made by the club delegates, and must be received by the Regional Secretary, via USPS mail, fax, or email no later than two weeks after the announcement is made.
9. All nominations must have a second, and write-in balloting is permitted.
10. A ballot listing the office to be elected will be placed in a plain white inner envelope. This plain white envelope is placed inside another envelope addressed to the club delegate. Another envelope will be addressed and stamped (SASE) to the Regional Secretary, and placed with the plain white envelope inside the envelope addressed to the club delegate. The ballots will be mailed to each club delegate in this form.
11. The ballot must be marked and returned to the Regional Secretary only.
12. The delegate will place the marked ballot inside the blank white envelope, seal it, and place this envelope inside the SASE which is addressed to the Regional Secretary.
13. The return address of the delegate must be added to the outside envelope (SASE) by the Regional Secretary so that the delegate’s name may be checked against the list of delegates eligible to vote.
14. Ballots for elections need to be sent only by USPS mail, not by fax or by email, and returned via confirmation of delivery and/or certified/return receipt.
15. Ballot committee must be impartial and a committee of three.
16. When the committee meets to count votes, the members will open the outer envelope and check the delegate’s name. This outer envelope will be destroyed. The blank white envelopes will be placed in a pile. Only when all of the SASE have been emptied and discarded will the plain white envelopes be counted.
17. The counted ballots must be retained by the Regional Secretary.
Vote: Yes–17 (Lyle Roetemeyer, Sara Wallick, Bill Plumb, Mark Przybylski, Tim Burke, Al Govednik, Frank Phillips, Terry Macias, Howie Rodriguez, Nathaniel Roque, Pia Blackwell, Arthur Collins, Gordon Esselmann, Scott Hedger, Michelle Kutelis, Mark Scarberry, David Witmer), No–2 (Randall Hoadley, Lynne Lewis), ABS–2 (Steve Cobb, Pedro Jimenez). Motion carried 12/3/07.
E-Ballot #33-07
(2007 H.O.T./Obedience/Youth Championships Funding)
Motion by Bill Plumb to approve $4,000 to fund the 2008 H.O.T./Obedience/Youth Championships.
Vote: Yes–21 (Lyle Roetemeyer, Randall Hoadley, Sara Wallick, Bill Plumb, Mark Przybylski, Tim Burke, Al Govednik, Frank Phillips, Terry Macias, Howie Rodriguez, Nathaniel Roque, Pia Blackwell, Steve Cobb, Arthur Collins, Gordon Esselmann, Scott Hedger, Pedro Jimenez, Michelle Kutelis, Lynne Lewis, Mark Scarberry, David Witmer). Motion carried unanimously 11/27/07.
E-Ballot #32-07
(FCI Judges Workshop Expenses)
Motion by Bill Plumb to approve travel expenses not to exceed $5,000 for three USA judges to attend the FCI Judges Workshop.
Vote: Yes–21 (Lyle Roetemeyer, Randall Hoadley, Sara Wallick, Bill Plumb, Mark Przybylski, Tim Burke, Al Govednik, Frank Phillips, Terry Macias, Howie Rodriguez, Nathaniel Roque, Pia Blackwell, Steve Cobb, Arthur Collins, Gordon Esselmann, Scott Hedger, Pedro Jimenez, Michelle Kutelis, Lynne Lewis, Mark Scarberry, David Witmer). Motion carried unanimously 11/27/07.
E-Ballot #31-07
(Judges Committee Recommendation Regarding Randall Hoadley)
Motion by Mark Przybylski to accept the recommendation of the USA Judges Committee that Randall Hoadley pay back all of the funds ($314.04) he received from USA as reimbursement for travel to the 2006 USA General Board meeting; and, further, that Randall Hoadley’s USA Probationary Performance Judge license be suspended for a minimum of one (1) year for conduct unbecoming a USA Judge.
Vote: Yes–12 (Lyle Roetemeyer, Sara Wallick, Bill Plumb, Mark Przybylski, Al Govednik, Terry Macias, Howie Rodriguez, Pia Blackwell, Arthur Collins, Pedro Jimenez, Mark Scarberry, David Witmer), No–5 (Randall Hoadley, Steve Cobb, Gordon Esselmann, Scott Hedger, Lynne Lewis), NFD–3 (Tim Burke, Nathaniel Roque, Michelle Kutelis). Motion carried 11/4/07.
E-Ballot #30-07
(USA Working Dog Championships)
Motion by Terry Macias to accept the following recommendations from the National Events Committee:
1. Combine the North American Championship, H.O.T. Championship, FH Championship, Youth National Championship, and Obedience National Championship into an event titled the USA Working Dog Championships.
2. The USA Working Dog Championships will use the same window in May that the North American Championship and FH Championship now hold.
Executive Board Ballots–2007 3 of 8 Updated December 26, 2007 3. This will provide one large event instead of two poorly attended smaller events, will make USA and the sport more affordable and attractive to new members, and will require finding one less championship host club.
4. The North American Championship and the H.O.T. Championship will be merged into one event with placings for the top ten dog/handler teams overall and the top ten dog/handler teams for the H.O.T. USA will sponsor the H.O.T. trophies.
5. National event bid forms for the USA Working Dog Championships must be submitted to the National Events Committee by May 1st of the prior year. National event bid forms for the GSD National Championship must be submitted to the National Events Committee by November 1st of the prior year.
6. Completed national event bid forms will be submitted to the Executive Board for approval. The Executive Board will strive to approve host clubs that are geographically separated.
7. The high-scoring SchH3 GSD/handler team at the USA Working Dog Championships will receive an automatic placing on the USA WUSV team provided they also have a qualifying score of at least 270 points at the GSD National Championship or the AWDF Championship.
8. The North American Championship/H.O.T. Championship will also offer SchH1 and SchH2.
9. The USA Working Dog Championship schedule will be:
Wednesday FH Championship and Obedience Championship (Draw night)
Thursday FH Championship and Obedience Championship (Competition)
North American Championship/H.O.T. Championship (Helper selection)
North American Championship/H.O.T. Championship and Youth Championship (Draw night)
Friday North American Championship/H.O.T. Championship (Competition starts)
Saturday North American Championship/H.O.T. Championship (Competition continues)
Youth Championship (Stadium events)
Sunday Youth Championship (Tracking events)
Closing Ceremonies
Vote: Yes–12 (Lyle Roetemeyer, Randall Hoadley, Sara Wallick, Mark Przybylski, Tim Burke, Al Govednik, Terry Macias, Howie Rodriguez, Nathaniel Roque, Gordon Esselmann, Scott Hedger, David Witmer), No–6 (Bill Plumb, Pia Blackwell, Steve Cobb, Arthur Collins, Pedro Jimenez, Mark Scarberry), NFD–2 (Michelle Kutelis, Lynne Lewis). Motion carried 10/22/07.
E-Ballot #29-07
(USA Contribution to WUSV Team Travel Fund)
Motion by Bill Plumb that USA contribute $2,300 to the WUSV Team travel fund so the 2007 team members and captain can receive reimbursement of $2,200 each, as they received last year. Team contributions have been lower because members have been donating to the 2008 WUSV World Championship Fund.
Vote: Yes–20 (Lyle Roetemeyer, Randall Hoadley, Sara Wallick, Bill Plumb, Mark Przybylski, Tim Burke, Al Govednik, Terry Macias, Howie Rodriguez, Nathaniel Roque, Pia Blackwell, Steve Cobb, Arthur Collins, Gordon Esselmann, Scott Hedger, Pedro Jimenez, Michelle Kutelis, Lynne Lewis, Mark Scarberry, David Witmer). Motion carried unanimously 10/19/07.
E-Ballot #28-07
(Reservations for FCI Judges Workshop)
Motion by Bill Plumb to approve Euro 1,050 to reserve three spots for USA judges to attend the FCI Judges Workshop in December 2007 in Germany. USA has received an invitation for three judges to attend this important workshop. Attendance is limited and based on first money received.
Vote: Yes–20 (Lyle Roetemeyer, Randall Hoadley, Sara Wallick, Bill Plumb, Mark Przybylski, Tim Burke, Al Govednik, Terry Macias, Howie Rodriguez, Nathaniel Roque, Bill Bimrose, Pia Blackwell, Steve Cobb, Arthur Collins, Gordon Esselmann, Pedro Jimenez, Michelle Kutelis, Lynne Lewis, Mark Scarberry, David Witmer). Motion carried unanimously 10/15/07.
E-Ballot #27-07
(Reimbursement of USA Representative at 2007 WUSV Championship)
Motion by Bill Plumb to pay the necessary and reasonable expenses for Craig Groh to attend the 2007 WUSV World Championship and represent USA. Lyle Roetemeyer is unable to attend, so this will not add to the expense budget.
Vote: Yes–20 (Lyle Roetemeyer, Randall Hoadley, Sara Wallick, Bill Plumb, Mark Przybylski, Tim Burke, Al Govednik, Terry Macias, Howie Rodriguez, Nathaniel Roque, Bill Bimrose, Pia Blackwell, Steve Cobb, Arthur Collins, Gordon Esselmann, Pedro Jimenez, Michelle Kutelis, Lynne Lewis, Mark Scarberry, David Witmer). Motion carried unanimously 10/14/07.
E-Ballot #26-07
(Recognition of AWMA Judges Program and Titles)
Motion by Mark Przybylski that USA recognize the AWMA (American Working Malinois Association)
judges program and titles awarded by their judges as prescribed in E-Ballot #26-05
(Entry in AWDF Affiliated Breed Club Trials).
Executive Board Ballots–2007 4 of 8 Updated December 26, 2007 The AWMA has an acceptable judges program that mirrors our own, the titles would be accepted in the same fashion that we accept titles earned under DVG judges, and the titles would only be accepted as progression pertaining to performance titles (i.e., SchH1 to SchH 2, etc.).
Titles earned under an AWMA judge will not be recognized for German Shepherd Dogs in any context that applies to breeding, breed surveys, breed shows, and registration with USA. These titles will also not be recognized for the USA SchH3 Club or the USA Sports Medals Program.
Titles earned under an AWMA judge will not be recognized for entry in the USA-GSD National Championship.
Vote: Yes–19 (Lyle Roetemeyer, Randall Hoadley, Sara Wallick, Bill Plumb, Mark Przybylski, Tim Burke, Al Govednik, Terry Macias, Howie Rodriguez, Bill Bimrose, Pia Blackwell, Steve Cobb, Arthur Collins, Gordon Esselmann, Pedro Jimenez, Michelle Kutelis, Lynne Lewis, Mark Scarberry, David Witmer), ABS–1 (Nathaniel Roque). Motion carried 10/9/07.
E-Ballot #25-07
(BOI Case: June Sexton vs. John Oliver)
Motion by Howie Rodriguez to accept the following recommendation by the USA Board of Inquiry:
John Oliver has refused to comply with the disciplinary requirements arising from a BOI decision that was also adopted by the Executive Board. John Oliver’s USA membership lapsed on June 1, 2007 while he remained in a disciplinary status (i.e., a member not in good standing). Consequently, due to the lapse of his USA membership, Mr. Oliver is no longer subject to USA’s disciplinary procedures.
Therefore, the USA Board of Inquiry unanimously recommends that John Oliver be ineligible to rejoin USA or to renew his membership in USA until he meets the previous BOI requirements.
Vote: Yes–19 (Lyle Roetemeyer, Randall Hoadley, Sara Wallick, Mark Przybylski, Tim Burke, Al Govednik, Terry Macias, Howie Rodriguez, Nathaniel Roque, Bill Bimrose, Pia Blackwell, Steve Cobb, Arthur Collins, Jerrold Gray, Pedro Jimenez, Michelle Kutelis, Lynne Lewis, Mark Scarberry, David Witmer), No–1 (Bill Plumb). Motion carried 10/1/07.
E-Ballot #24-07
(Appeal of Southwestern Regional Director Decision)
The So Cal Working Dog Association has appealed the decision of Southwestern Regional Director Michelle Kutelis to cancel the event authorization for a trial that So Cal Working Dog Association was to host on September 22, 2007. The event authorization was canceled due to the failure of the club to provide written event notification to the other clubs in the region at least three weeks in advance of the event, as notification was provided just 18 days prior to the event instead.
Shall the Executive Board overrule the decision of the regional director and allow the trial scheduled for September 22, 2007 to proceed?
Vote: Yes–18 (Lyle Roetemeyer, Randall Hoadley, Sara Wallick, Bill Plumb, Mark Przybylski, Tim Burke, Al Govednik, Terry Macias, Howie Rodriguez, Nathaniel Roque, Bill Bimrose, Pia Blackwell, Arthur Collins, Jerrold Gray, Pedro Jimenez, Lynne Lewis, Mark Scarberry, David Witmer), No–1 (Steve Cobb), ABS–1 (Michelle Kutelis). Motion carried 9/20/07.
E-Ballot #23-07
(2007 GSD National Championship Slate of Helpers)
Motion by Nathaniel Roque to approve the USA Helper Committee’s recommended slate of helpers for the 2007 GSD National Championship:
Lotus Perkins Jim Laubmeier Clark Niemitalo Shane Garrehy
Vote: Yes–20. Motion carried unanimously 8/24/07.
E-Ballot #22-07
(Training Restrictions at USA Events)
Motion by Mark Przybylski to adopt the following USA policy:
As of November 1, 2007, at USA-sponsored national, regional and club events (performance trials, breed shows, breed surveys, herding trials) there shall be no aggressive training devices (i.e., prong collars, electric collars, etc.) carried by the handler or worn by the dog at any time after the official start of the event within 100 yards of the boundaries of the event stadium/trial field and/or tracking fields as designated by the hosting club. The only collar or tracking harness allowed will be as stipulated in the USA Rulebook or by USA.
Failure to observe this restriction will result in punitive action: immediate disqualification for unsportsmanlike conduct from the event and possible expulsion from the event site, if deemed necessary. This enforcement shall be the sole responsibility of the judge(s) at the event.
The official start of a national or regional event is defined as the first official day of any phase of competition and ends with the event’s closing ceremonies.
The same 100-yard rule will be in effect at club events from the beginning to the end of competition each day.
During the training/practice phase at all USA-sponsored national, regional, and club events (performance trials, breed shows, breed surveys, herding trials), aggressive training devices will be allowed at the event stadium/trial field and/or tracking fields before the official start of the event, but may not be used there or at
Executive Board Ballots–2007 5 of 8 Updated December 26, 2007 any other location to a degree that they could be construed as abusive in any way. This also covers any type of abusive training or behavior inflicted with any type of device or actions, which could be demonstrated by demeanor that shows the dog is under undue stress other than that which comes from normal trialing.
The training aspect of events such as training seminars of any kind will be the responsibility of the hosting club, and that responsibility must not be taken lightly.
Motion withdrawn 7/29/07.
E-Ballot #21-07
(Regional Boundary Change)
Motion by Bill Plumb to realign the Mid-Central, Northwestern, and South Central regions as follows: The Rocky Mountain/Great Plains Region will be eliminated and the area will be reassigned. Colorado will become part of the Mid-Central Region, Utah will become part of the Northwestern Region, and New Mexico and West Texas will become part of the South Central Region.
The RMGP Regional Championship will be eliminated. Any competitor in the former RMGP Region who is otherwise qualified to enter the 2007 USA-GSD National Championship with a 270-point qualifying score attained at any USA regular club trial will be given a waiver for regional participation.
Vote: Yes–16 (Lyle Roetemeyer, Randall Hoadley, Sara Wallick, Bill Plumb, Tim Burke, Al Govednik, Terry Macias, Howie Rodriguez, Nathaniel Roque, Bill Bimrose, Pia Blackwell, Arthur Collins, Jerrold Gray, Pedro Jimenez, Mark Scarberry, Kevin Sheldahl), No–2 (Steve Cobb, Lynne Lewis), NFD–3 (Mark Przybylski, Michelle Kutelis, David Witmer). Motion carried 8/7/07.
E-Ballot #20-07
(USA Policy on Training Devices/Methods)
Motion by Nathaniel Roque to adopt the following USA policy:
The United Schutzhund Clubs of America promotes safe and humane training methods for dogs. All types of “training devices” or “methods” are accepted by USA, when used in a safe and humane manner, and may be used in training and practice up until the official start of a USA event. The official start of a USA national event is defined as the “draw,” and the official start of a USA regional or club event is defined as the first day of competition.
In some instances, with prior notification in the event flier, practice time for the event may not be provided and/or training devices used while on the event site may be restricted to the type of chain collar allowed in a trial. If a lead is used in that case, it may only be attached to the dead ring of the collar.
Any USA member who demonstrates unsafe and/or inhumane treatment of a dog during training or practice may be disciplined by USA if another USA member files a complaint of “unsportsmanlike conduct” with the Board of Inquiry and the complaint is found to be valid.
Motion withdrawn 7/22/07.
E-Ballot #19-07
(Rocky Mountain/Great Plains Regional Election)
Motion by Al Govednik that the Executive Board invalidate the Rocky Mountain/Great Plains regional election and re-conduct the election consistent with the process described in Sturgis, with the election to be conducted by an election committee named by the USA President.
Upon review of the evidence presented in the appeal filed by June Sexton regarding the regional elections in the RMGP Region, it became clear that the irregularities and inequities of the election process went beyond the matter of Twin Peaks Schutzhund Club’s ballot. It also appears from review of the documentation that re-conducting a fair election by the region is questionable.
1. Procedures required for carrying out a fair election were not observed, as the procedures provided in Sturgis for voting by mail to ensure a secret ballot were not used.
2. Procedures or actions during the election were unauthorized or illegal, as there is no provision in the USA Bylaws for the use of faxed regional election ballots.
3. There was gross negligence in conducting the election, due to the changing criteria for how ballots were to be submitted, the changing submittal date of the ballots, the changing voting delegate criteria, the failure to alert the Twin Peaks delegate their ballot submitted on May 26 was insufficient, and the failure to answer the direct question posed by the Twin Peaks delegate about the validity of their ballot on the last day of the election.
4. The election requirements in the bylaws were not correctly interpreted or followed, as there is no provision in the USA Bylaws for the use of faxed regional election ballots.
Motion withdrawn 6/29/07.
E-Ballot #18-07
(Reimbursement of USA Representative at H.O.T. Championship)
Motion by Bill Plumb to reimburse Terry Macias $629.48 for travel expenses incurred attending the H.O.T.
Championship to represent the USA President.
Executive Board Ballots–2007 6 of 8 Updated December 26, 2007
Vote: Yes–19 (Lyle Roetemeyer, Randall Hoadley, Sara Wallick, Bill Plumb, Mark Przybylski, Tim Burke, Al Govednik, Terry Macias, Howie Rodriguez, Nathaniel Roque, Bill Bimrose, Pia Blackwell, Arthur Collins, Jerrold Gray, Randy Kromer, Michelle Kutelis, Lynne Lewis, Mark Scarberry, David Witmer), No–1 (Steve Cobb), ABS–1 (Kevin Sheldahl). Motion carried 7/12/07.
E-Ballot #17-07
(Appeal of Rocky Mountain/Great Plains Regional Director Decision) – Withdrawn June Sexton of the Rocky Mountain Schutzhund Club has appealed the decision of Rocky Mountain/Great Plains Regional Director John Oliver that disallowed the vote of the Twin Peaks Schutzhund Club in the election for Rocky Mountain/Great Plains Regional Director.
Shall the Executive Board overrule the decision of the regional director and declare Mark Chaffin the new Rocky Mountain/Great Plains Regional Director? Election declared invalid, therefore appeal withdrawn 7/3/07.
E-Ballot #16-07
(Appeal of Rocky Mountain/Great Plains Regional Director Decision)
Sharyn Baker of the Colorado Alpine Schutzhund Club has appealed the decision of Rocky Mountain/Great Plains Regional Director John Oliver to cancel the club’s June 2007 trial because the event flyer was inadvertently sent to the other clubs in the region four days late, even though the event had been publicized on the USA website and in Schutzhund USA.
Shall the Executive Board sustain the decision of the regional director? Regional director reversed decision, therefore appeal withdrawn 6/18/07.
E-Ballot #15-07
(Fiscal Year 2008 Budget)
Motion by Bill Plumb to approve the fiscal year 2008 budget of total income $513,500, total expenses $511,292, and net income $2,208. (Budget attached).
Vote: Yes–21 (Lyle Roetemeyer, Randall Hoadley, Sara Wallick, Bill Plumb, Mark Przybylski, Tim Burke, Al Govednik, Terry Macias, Howie Rodriguez, Nathaniel Roque, Bill Bimrose, Pia Blackwell, Steve Cobb, Arthur Collins, Jerrold Gray, Randy Kromer, Michelle Kutelis, Lynne Lewis, John Oliver, Mark Scarberry, David Witmer). Motion carried unanimously 6/27/07.
E-Ballot #14-07
(BOI Case: June Sexton vs. John Oliver)
Motion by Al Govednik to accept the determination and recommendation of the Board of Inquiry in the case of June Sexton vs. John Oliver, with the modification that the apology be in writing and be sent to all regional clubs.
It is the determination of the BOI that:
1. Sexton’s allegation regarding Oliver’s conduct of a regional meeting without a quorum is not sustained.
2. Sexton’s allegation that Oliver falsely represents himself as the regional director is not sustained.
3. Sexton’s allegation that Oliver’s actions with respect to club contacts is a matter prejudicial and/or detrimental to the interests of USA is sustained.
4. Sexton’s allegation regarding Oliver’s club co-hosting, rather than hosting a regional event alone, without a regional vote, is a not an issue detrimental or prejudicial to the interest of USA and is not sustained.
It is the unanimous recommendation of the BOI members that:
1. Oliver should receive a censure from the Executive Board.
2. Oliver should make an apology to his region, with assurances that he will make a greater effort to follow rules and procedures, and apply them in an even-handed and consistent manner.
3. Oliver should be ineligible to hold office as regional director for one two-year term, i.e., be ineligible to run for or hold office as RMGP regional director in the regional elections that should be held in 2007.
Vote: Yes–17 (Lyle Roetemeyer, Randall Hoadley, Sara Wallick, Mark Przybylski, Tim Burke, Al Govednik, Terry Macias, Howie Rodriguez, Nathaniel Roque, Bill Bimrose, Pia Blackwell, Arthur Collins, Jerrold Gray, Michelle Kutelis, Lynne Lewis, Peggy Park, Mark Scarberry), No–2 (Randy Kromer, John Oliver) NFD–1 (Bill Plumb) ABS–1 (Steve Cobb). Motion carried 5/23/07.
E-Ballot #13-07
(Approval of USA Youth Sport Book and Printing Expenses)
Motion by Mark Scarberry to approve the USA Youth Sport Book and printing expenses of $125 through the USA Office for the book. This amount will cover the expense of printing 125 books, and they will be sold for $5 each to our youth members. The books will aid in the tracking of youth participation in the organization for youth sports medal points, scholarship criteria, and award purposes.
Attached are draft copies of the USA Youth Sport Book and the Sports Medal Program developed by the USA Youth Committee.
Vote: Yes–19 (Lyle Roetemeyer, Randall Hoadley, Sara Wallick, Bill Plumb, Mark Przybylski, Tim Burke, Al Govednik, Terry Macias, Howie Rodriguez, Nathaniel Roque, Bill Bimrose, Steve Cobb, Arthur Collins, Jerrold Gray, Randy Kromer, Michelle Kutelis, Lynne Lewis, Peggy Park, Mark Scarberry), No–1 (John Oliver), NR–1 (Pia Blackwell). Motion carried 5/19/07.
E-Ballot #12-07
(Budget Approval for Art Director Fee Increase)
Motion by Bill Plumb to increase the current fiscal year budget for the Art Director by $1,000. Effective this month, the Art Director’s fee has increased to $3,200 per month from $2,700 per month.
Executive Board Ballots–2007 7 of 8 Updated December 26, 2007
Vote: Yes–18 (Lyle Roetemeyer, Randall Hoadley, Sara Wallick, Bill Plumb, Mark Przybylski, Tim Burke, Al Govednik, Terry Macias, Howie Rodriguez, Nathaniel Roque, Bill Bimrose, Steve Cobb, Arthur Collins, Jerrold Gray, Michelle Kutelis, Lynne Lewis, Peggy Park, Mark Scarberry), NFD–1 (John Oliver), NR–2 (Pia Blackwell, Randy Kromer). Motion carried 5/19/07.
E-Ballot #11-07
(Budget Approval for Dog World Advertisement)
Motion by Bill Plumb to approve up to $1,500 for an advertisement in the Dog World GSD special issue.
This amount must be paid in June in order to get space in this issue.
Motion withdrawn 5/17/07. (The original quote from the company was for an advertisement in Dog World. On May 16 the company notified USA the quote was in error, as it was actually for an advertisement in Dog Fancy rather than Dog World.)
E-Ballot #10-07
(2007 H.O.T./Obedience/Youth Championships Slate of Helpers)
Motion by Nathaniel Roque to approve the USA Helper Committee’s recommended slate of helpers for the 2007 H.O.T./Obedience/Youth Championships:
Pattrick Davis Jose Lopez Josh Zapparolli
Vote: Yes–21. Motion carried unanimously 5/1/07.
E-Ballot #9-07
(WUSV 2008 Budget Approval)
Motion by Randall Hoadley to approve the WUSV 2008 budget proposed by the 2008 WUSV Event Team.
The budget is a guideline for the revenue and expenses for the 2008 WUSV World Championship.
Vote: Yes–20 (Lyle Roetemeyer, Randall Hoadley, Sara Wallick, Bill Plumb, Mark Przybylski, Tim Burke, Al Govednik, Terry Macias, Howie Rodriguez, Nathaniel Roque, Bill Bimrose, Pia Blackwell, Steve Cobb, Arthur Collins, Jerrold Gray, Michelle Kutelis, Lynne Lewis, John Oliver, Peggy Park, Mark Scarberry), NFD–1 (Randy Kromer). Motion carried 3/29/07.
E-Ballot #8-07
(Dog World Magazine Advertisement)
Motion by Randall Hoadley to allocate $1,232.50 for a USA advertisement in Dog World magazine for a full-page color ad. The advertisement will feature USA and the 2008 WUSV Championship.
Background: Dog World magazine has an upcoming issue that will discuss Schutzhund, and we have been approached by the magazine to place an ad that will run in conjunction with the article(s). USA will be mentioned in the article, with our name and website, and we need to make our presence known since we may not be the only Schutzhund organization mentioned. We have negotiated a special price of $1,232.50 for a full-page color ad. It is the recommendation of our Magazine Committee that we submit a full-page ad, since most of the ads in that section are full page. Kathy Moacanin will put the ad together.
Vote: Yes–21 (Lyle Roetemeyer, Randall Hoadley, Sara Wallick, Bill Plumb, Mark Przybylski, Tim Burke, Al Govednik, Terry Macias, Howie Rodriguez, Nathaniel Roque, Bill Bimrose, Pia Blackwell, Steve Cobb, Jerrold Gray, Vicki Keller, Randy Kromer, Michelle Kutelis, Lynne Lewis, John Oliver, Peggy Park, Mark Scarberry). Motion carried unanimously 3/22/07.
E-Ballot #7-07
(2007 H.O.T./Obedience/Youth Championships Slate of Judges)
Motion by Mark Przybylski to approve the USA Judges Committee’s recommended slate of judges for the 2007 H.O.T. Championship/National Obedience Championship/Youth National Championship:
Tracking – Frank Mensing (GSSCC/SV)
Obedience & Protection – Jim Elder (USA)
National Obedience Championship – Jim Elder (USA) and Frank Mensing (GSSCC/SV)
Vote: Yes–20, NR–1. Motion carried 2/23/07.
E-Ballot #6-07
(2007 North American Championship Slate of Helpers)
Motion by Nathaniel Roque to approve the USA Helper Committee’s recommended slate of helpers for the 2007 North American Championship:
Lotus Perkins Jim Laubmeier John Bochenek Lionel Madden Final placement (front half, back half, or alternate) will be determined per the USA Helper Program with a tryout one day before the event.
Vote: Yes–20, NR–1. Motion carried 2/22/07.
E-Ballot #5-07
(FCI Judges Meeting Travel Expense Reimbursement)
Motion by Al Govednik to reimburse Johannes Grewe $1,478.51 for travel expenses incurred attending the FCI judges meeting. Johannes attended even though he was aware that expenses would only be paid for two judges, and he was instrumental in assuring clear communication with our FCI colleagues. Further, he will donate this money to the 2008 WUSV Championship fund.
Executive Board Ballots–2007 8 of 8 Updated December 26, 2007
Vote: Yes–13 (Lyle Roetemeyer, Randall Hoadley, Sara Wallick, Tim Burke, Al Govednik, Terry Macias, Howie Rodriguez, Nathaniel Roque, Bill Bimrose, Steve Cobb, Jerrold Gray, Peggy Park, Mark Scarberry), No–6 (Bill Plumb, Mark Przybylski, Uwe Doose, Vicki Keller, Randy Kromer, John Oliver), NR–2 (Pia Blackwell, Lynne Lewis). Motion carried 2/14/07.
E-Ballot #4-07
(Microchip Identification Acceptance)
Motion by Nathaniel Roque to accept microchips and/or tattoos as identification for German Shepherd Dogs registered with the USA Breed Registry. Registration in the USA/SV Breed Registry will still require a tattoo to meet SV requirements. Microchips must be identified by a veterinarian, USA tattooer, USA breed warden, or USA-recognized judge and documented on a Tattoo/Microchip Identification Form for submittal to the USA Office. The USA Office will record the microchip number on the dog’s scorebook and USA Registration. It is the responsibility of handlers/owners using microchips to identify their dogs for entry in a USA event to insure there is an appropriate microchip reader available at the event. It is not the responsibility of the event host to provide a reader. Handlers/owners declaring for an international team must comply with the international competition requirements in effect at the time of the event.
Vote: Yes–20 (Lyle Roetemeyer, Randall Hoadley, Sara Wallick, Bill Plumb, Mark Przybylski, Tim Burke, Al Govednik, Terry Macias, Howie Rodriguez, Nathaniel Roque, Bill Bimrose, Pia Blackwell, Steve Cobb, Uwe Doose, Jerrold Gray, Vicki Keller, Randy Kromer, Lynne Lewis, John Oliver, Peggy Park), NFD–1 (Mark Scarberry). Motion carried 2/4/07.
E-Ballot #3-07
(2007 GSD National Championship Slate of Judges)
Motion by Mark Przybylski to approve the USA Judges Committee’s recommended slate of judges for the 2007 GSD National Championship:
Tracking – Mike Hamilton (USA)
Obedience – Dirk Stocks (SV)
Protection – Al Kerr (USA)
Vote: Yes–21. Motion carried unanimously 2/2/07.
E-Ballot #2-07
(Microchip Identification Acceptance) – Withdrawn
Motion by Nathaniel Roque to accept microchips in lieu of tattoos as a valid form of identification for German Shepherd Dogs registered with the USA Breed Registry. Registration in the USA/SV Breed Registry will still require a tattoo. Microchips must be identified by a veterinarian, USA breed warden, or USA judge and documented by the USA Office on the dog’s scorebook and USA Registration. It is the responsibility of handlers/owners using microchips to identify their dogs for entry in a USA event to insure there is a microchip reader available at the event. It is not the responsibility of the event host to provide a reader.
Motion withdrawn 1/12/07.
E-Ballot #1-07
(2007 North American and FH Championship Slate of Judges)
Motion by Mark Przybylski to approve the USA Judges Committee’s recommended slate of judges for the 2007 North American and FH Championship:
Tracking – Glenn Stephenson (USA)
Obedience – Carla Griffith (USA)
Protection – Willie Pope (USA)
Vote: Yes–21. Motion carried unanimously 1/15/07.
Vote results reported as Yes, No, NFD (needs further discussion), ABS (abstain), or NR (no response).
Executive Board Ballots 2007