Office of the Secretary
November 24, 2001

USA Club Members:

Enclosed are the Minutes from the November 1, 2001 General Board Meeting.

I have included some statistics from the 2001General Board Meeting that may be of interest to you.

67 delegate letters were submitted.

Throughout the meeting there were 45 club delegates in attendance:

New England - 6

Northeastern - 5

Southeastern - 8

North Central - 0

Mid-Central - 3

Mid-Eastern - 6

South Central - 3

Rocky Mtn/Grt Plains - 1

Southwestern - 4

Northwestern - 5

Pacific Northwest – 4

Listed below are some key policy, procedure, program, and bylaw changes that are important to your club. Should you have questions regarding any of the items listed below, please contact your regional director.

· The 70-point passing protection score was accepted. In an effort to more rapidly communicate rule changes to the membership, Mark Przybylski, Director of Judges, has announced a new “Policy for Rule Change Notification”. An e-mail will first be sent to the Executive Board, all USA judges, and the website advising them of the changes that will be in effect the coming weekend. The website will also announce these changes. It will be the responsibility of the Regional Director to advise all clubs in their area within two-days. Please visit our website for full details.

· Reminder: Trial secretaries cannot compete in the trial. There is also a limit of two dogs per handler per trial.

· There is an increase in the deposit for SV judges travel to the average cost of a round-trip ticket ($650) and also the acceptance of a club or club member’s credit card.

· Bylaw Changes: You are now required to submit a current membership list, with your annual dues.

· Member clubs shall not be members of other Schutzhund type organizations. Trial paperwork from clubs that have identical names has been received at the SV Office. The SV charges our account for their services. We wish for clubs that have dual memberships with identical names, to please change the name of their club somewhat. This will aid our Office Staff, and eliminate erroneous charges on our account with the SV. There is also an undue amount of phone time and research spent by our Office Staff researching for membership into our Sports Medal Program and SchH3 Club. Your cooperation is needed. Please contact your regional director for their assistance.

· To avoid a dues increase, all clubs are asked to voluntarily contribute $125, and each member contributes $5. All donations should be made payable to USA earmarked for the Tax Relief Fund

Please check our Website often, to view the latest announcements from the Executive Board, Committees, and the USA Office.

Best wishes for a joyous holiday season, and a fantastic new year!

Diane Madigan

General Board Meeting

November 1, 2001

Taunton, Massachusetts

Prior to the start of the meeting, a video taped tribute to Egon Vollarth was shown honoring his life and his contributions to USA.

I. CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL

President Michael Hamilton called the meeting to order at 8:31 am. Diane Madigan took roll call, 43 Club Delegates, and 19 Executive Board Members were present.

II. MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETINGS

Kay Koerner asked that we wait until later in the meeting to approve the minutes, due to the fact that we may need to expunge our decision to adhere to the 80-point protection score. No Second. Al Govednik motioned seconded by Nathaniel Roque to approve the minutes from the 2001 General Board Meeting and the 2001 Executive Board Meeting. VOTE: APPROVED UNANIMOUSLY

III. OFFICER’S REPORTS

President’s Report: President Michael Hamilton reported on his recent trip to Dusseldorf, Germany, where he attended the German Sieger Show, the WUSV Meeting, and other meetings with Herr Lux, Hans Rudenauer, Walter Hoffmann, and Georg zum Felde. Topics discussed were our breed registry and judges program. The United Schutzhund Clubs of America is the only organization in the world that has a joint venture with the SV to print an additional document for our pedigrees. Everyone should be aware that the document the SV prints for us is an additional document and we must continue to register our dogs with the AKC.

There are changes that are in discussion regarding the continuation of our very good business relationship with the SV. An early 2002 trip to the SV office is planned.

Due to the September 11 attack, our World Team decided not to risk travel to the WUSV Championship in Slovenia. This does not detract from the team and their qualifying performances. Round of applause for support of our World Team.

Mike read a unanimously approved decision from the WUSV meeting. “In the future, trials will be conducted only in compliance with FCI or WUSV rules in countries that are WUSV members.” Mike added that if we value our WUSV membership, we must abide by the 70-point protection score. Another decision that was made at the WUSV Meeting in Dusseldorf is that only one team per country will be permitted at the 2003 WUSV World Championship. Mike reported on a very positive meeting he and Stephanie Dunion had with Herr Lux, Hans Rudenauer, Walter Hoffmann, and Georg zum Felde. They were told that other countries have resolved the one team per country issue by having a championship. Mike proposed a championship to Kenneth Downing, President GSDCA and David Landau, President, to decide the 2003 World Team. Communication with the WDA is ongoing, the Executive Board, World Championship Committee will be appraised during this negotiation process.

New members and reestablished members to the WUSV are the GSD Club of Hong Kong, Kazakhstan, Yugoslavia, Estonia, China, Ecuador, and Latvia. A total of 50 voting delegates were present at this years WUSV meeting. United Schutzhund Clubs of America is one of the largest member clubs of the WUSV.

Upcoming WUSV Championships:

2002 – Steyr, Austria

2003 – Italy

2004 – Netherlands

2005 – Czech Republic

2006 – Denmark

2007 – Slovakia

2008 – Greece

2009 – USA (to be confirmed)

Mike made a presentation for the United Schutzhund Clubs of America to host the 2009 WUSV World Championship. We await official confirmation.

Mike Hamilton announced that he will not seek re-election., and asked anyone interested in running for President in 2002 please contact him.

Mike asked that clubs line-up our USA and SV judge’s a year in advance.

Stephanie Dunion presented the Lufthansa Corporate Mileage Plan. USA would accrue miles on a corporate level that can be redeemed for a free ticket or upgrades. Participation in this program will not affect an individual’s Frequent Flyer Program with Lufthansa, United Airlines, Canada, or SAS. This program starts January 1, 2002, and will require no additional work for our organization. Stephanie will handle the accounting procedures when booking our flights.

Mike described our current relationship with the AWDF. Mike appointed Viki Keller as the Presidents Liaison to the AWDF.

Vice-President’s Report:

Vice-President, Jim Elder attended and spoke at Egon Vollrath’s Memorial Service. Jim was struck by how many of our pioneering members are no longer with us. Jim suggested that the president form a special committee or a group of people to document and record our history through the eyes of our pioneering membership that remain with us today. This information would be archived at the USA Office and published on the website. Please contact Kay Koerner with any information you have regarding our organization’s pioneers.

Mike Hamilton and Jim Elder asked that the membership proudly display a USA pin (available from the USA Office) along with the United States flag to honor those lives lost in the September 11^th attack, and to honor those volunteers, dog handlers, and the many others that continue to work at Ground Zero. This display will also show our support for the service men and women both here and abroad that are serving their country in the name of freedom.

Jim explained that we are having trouble with USA Clubs that have dual memberships with DVG and WDA. This is against our bylaw that states: Member clubs shall not be members of other Schutzhund type organizations. Trial paperwork from clubs that have identical names has been received at the SV Office. The SV charges our account for their services. We wish for clubs that have dual memberships with identical names, to please change the name of their club somewhat. This will aid our Office Staff, and eliminate erroneous charges on our account with the SV. There is also an undue amount of phone time and research spent by our Office Staff researching for membership into our Sports Medal Program and SchH3 Club. Your cooperation is needed.

Future programs and management:

The line officers, regional directors and committees will be examining our current operational systems within the next year and recommending to the Board some updates and possibly a restructuring of many of our current programs. Change is needed to meet the needs of the organization and its members.

Jim offered his support and appreciation for Mike Hamilton, who in the past three years has helped to take back our organization, substantially decrease our debt, continues to work on both our relationship with the SV and our dual registration program.

Jim believes the time has come to address 8 major areas of concern.

Except for the Office these concerns are not listed in order of priority:

Office, National Events, Promotional & Public Relations, International Affairs & Relations, Judges Program, Breed Registry, Enhanced Regional management/to promote worthwhile programs for club and regional development and Helper Program.

Line officers or appropriate committees are currently reviewing the above concerns. Programs will be developed and presented at the 2002 General Board Meeting.
Report in Secretary’s File

Treasurer’s Report:

Treasurer, William Plumb could not attend the meeting. Highlights of Bill’s Report as read by Mike Hamilton:

Membership stands at approximately 5,323 with 206 clubs.

We are making progress in paying down our debts from the past.

SV Judges travel continues to be a problem. We have an unexplained shortfall in reimbursement of $18,000. Bill has established an accounting policy that if practiced will cure this problem.

The Executive Board has approved an increase in the deposit for SV judges travel to the average cost of a round-trip ticket ($650) and also the acceptance of a club or club member’s credit card.

Revenue is down; expenses have increased but remained under budget.

Bill supports a bylaw change that would make club membership lists mandatory with club dues.

The IRS has accessed us $25,134 in taxes, interest and penalties for the tax years 1994 through 1997. The tax was for contributions by nonmembers that the IRS upon audit, deemed taxable. We established a payment program with the IRS to pay this obligation at $750 per month. The balance continues to accrue interest at a current rate of 9%. Repayment at the current rate will take over 3 years and end up costing almost $30,000 for $14,000 in original taxes. Report in Secretary’s File

Secretary’s Report:

Secretary, Diane Madigan reported that there were 60 delegate letters received prior to this meeting. The minutes from the 2000 General Board and the 2001Executive Board meetings were printed in the magazine, sent to all clubs, and placed on our Webpage. 16 Mail Ballots were executed and those results were published. One Board of Inquiry Case was recently processed.

Diane expressed the need for enforcement of the required club membership lists. Without club membership lists there is little incentive for clubs to maintain the 5-member minimum. One need for the secretary’s office is to have electronic access to appropriate files for completing their duties. Accessibility through the office staff to these files should not be limited to regular business hours, as work is often accomplished in early mornings, weekends, and evenings. Report in Secretary’s File

New Club List Last Reported 2001 EB Meeting

Director of Judges, Mark Przybylski reported that two USA judges need approval from the Board for their permanent judges licenses: Ann Marie Chaffin and Carla Griffith. Karen McIntyre also needs the Board’s approval on her probationary license. David Millmore has completed his apprenticeship and a vote is needed for a probationary USA Judges License (working). Tonya Purcell is starting in our apprentice judge program. Chris Madsen was removed from the apprentice judges program due to inactivity. This has no negative reflection on Chris, his job as a police office has not afforded him the necessary time to complete the program. He is encouraged to reapply if conditions change.

There are currently 7 apprentice judges, 6 working and 1 breed. Jim Elder, Nathaniel Roque, and Paul Schneider are making progress in the program and hopefully we will be voting on them next year. Mark has sent out 12 packets this year to people interested in applying to our Judge’s Program.

Mark reviewed the Six New Training Titles Program that was approved by the Executive Board. He read the requirements for passing, judging, and their relation to our Sports Medal Program. Copy of the Approved Program is enclosed with the minutes.

Mike Hamilton announced that Johannes would be known as our Chief Breed Judge. Johannes has recently returned from China where he judged their Sieger Show with 150 dogs. Report in Secretary’s File

National Breed Warden, Johannes Grewe welcomed all elected Regional Breed Wardens as members of the New Breed Advisory Committee. He also thanked all past members of the Breed Advisory Committee for their service to our organization. Goals for this Breed Advisory Committee will be to place local Breed Wardens and Tattooers at the club level. Johannes asked that all local clubs elect a Breed Warden and Tattooer. In the future, should the club not elect a breed warden or tattooer, the Regional Breed Warden will appoint one. Johannes suggested that each region purchase a tattoo set for the use of the Regional Breed Warden.

Johannes is receiving good cooperation from the USA Registration Department. He congratulated Geli Clark from this department for her efforts in providing our membership with the best data possible. The Registration Department is working on a breeding data system that will help profile our registered dogs in regard to hip dysplasia evaluation information, schutzhund achievement, and breed survey recognition. We will be able to identify the number of offspring from a particular male and female who have achieved titles. Statistics will only be provided for USA registered dogs.

Processing “additional” pedigrees is taking too long. We will identify the problem areas and correct.

Johannes believes that the Breed Advisory Committee and the National Breed Warden should run the Sieger Show. We must be able to guarantee correct procedures to make a successful event for USA. We must improve the management of this event yearly.

Should COAPA decide to host a schutzhund trial along with their breed show, Johannes would like to see USA support.

Johannes also reported on the WUSV Meeting through the eyes of the National Breed Warden:

A motion for a WUSV judge’s policy that would accept all WUSV judges from each other’s countries was vetoed

Dogs from foreign countries that participate in the SV Sieger Show, should not stay in Germany, but should be used for breeding in their country of origin. The SV General Board 2001 has approved starting in 2002 that a non-scissor bite is a disqualifying fault for breeding. Dew claws are no longer forbidden in Germany. The buyer of the dog must sign the backside of the pedigree. Starting in 2002 elbow dysplasia evaluations will be started on a voluntary basis. The SV will recognize the following ratings: Normal, borderline, and slight elbow dysplasia (so called EED1). The grades EED2 and EED3 will not be printed on the pedigree, but the owner will be notified. Report in Secretary’s File

Kelly Hope thanked all Line Officers for their support and access. Kelly also thanked all Regional Directors for their quick response to questions throughout the year. All trial secretaries must be current USA members. Trial secretaries are not allowed to enter the trial. Geli Clark has recently been rehired at the USA Office. Geli is currently our Registration Department Manager.

Mike Hamilton has asked that we add information regarding police service to our membership application.

REMINDER: Trial Filing Fees are currently $4 per dog, per entry. National Event filing fees are currently $6 per dog, per entry.

Chair Kay Koerner reported that the auditing company, Davis, Keller, and Wiggins, completed the audit. Copies were distributed. Mike Hamilton announced that the auditing committee would oversee the Egon Vollrath Memorial Fund. At the Vollrath Family’s request in lieu of flowers a separate account has been set-up, proceeds will be distributed to our World Team through the Vollrath Family. This fund has been set-up in a separate account.

Committee member John Koerner reported that they are currently considering one case.

Chair John Koerner reported that there are two possible changes that will be addressed.

Advertising: The first Stud Dog issue generated 17 Stud Dog advertisers. Ad Numbers have increased through most of the year.

Magazine Content: We need more training articles. The committee would like to have regular features on all training phases. Please encourage people to write and contribute!

We show a $1000-$2000 savings per issue, with the reduction of boilerplate information.

The table of contents pages has been re-worked and now lists an index of advertisers. Feedback from this change has been positive.

Committee member Danny Grayson reported that there were eighteen participants at the Third Annual Helper Seminar. Danny gave a clarification to the recent program that was outlined in “Schutzhund USA”. This outline is meant to be a Helper Evaluation Program, and not meant in anyway to be a certification. This Helper Committee is a non-profit committee whose purpose is to teach young/less experienced helpers safe trial procedures. Within the next couple months this committee will prepare a proposal and present it to the Executive Board.

Chairman, Tim Cruser reported on a possible New Rotation Schedule for events starting in 2003.

The committee has developed three zones from which the 2003 Events will rotate. The division of the country is as follows:

Western Zone Area: North to South along the Eastern boarders of Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, and New Mexico.

Central Zone: North to South from Lake Erie along the Eastern Boarders of Ohio, Kentucky, Tennessee, and Alabama:

Event Locations: USA will entertain bids submitted in writing to the NEC at least 18 months prior to the event. Completed bids approved by the NEC will then be presented to the Board with a presentation from the bidding club.

There have been concerns from members regarding events during holidays. Hardy Ernsting expressed his concerns and asked that hosting clubs be aware in the future. Tim Cruser announced that in the future, the NEC would try to avoid National Events on holidays, especially Easter.

GSD Championship: April 12 –14 Cumberland Valley will host this event: Lyle Roetemeyer, RD Mid-East Region supplied information on Holiday Inn same hotel as used for the 1999 World Qualifier. Tracking will be on grass/hay fields. Nearest airport: Nashville less than an hour’s drive to the stadium.

North American and FH Championships: May 2 - 5 hosted by Snohomish SchH Club, Paul Schneider event chairman. Nearest airport: Sea-Tac National. Event will take place about an hour north. Stadium is secured.

National Championship: Nov.1 – 3 hosted by Jefferson-St. Clair County, Pam Hanrahan Tracking will be on 4-8 inch hay fields. Event will be held at the Sports Complex. Nearest airport: Birmingham, Alabama.

Sieger Show: March 29 – 31 Las Vegas, hosted by O.G. Valencia, John Oliver the website is running. The host hotel, Emerald Springs Holiday Inn is filling quickly, Overflow hotel Roadway Inn and Suites. The event will take place at UNLV on a sports field. Nearest airport Las Vegas is 10 minutes from the hotel. Judges: Hans-Peter Rieker as the principle judge for males, SV judge Erich Bösl as principal judge for females, USA judge Johannes Grewe will judge 3-6 mo. males, 6-9 mo. females, 12-18 mo. males, and 18-24 mo. females.

Nikki Banfield, Assistant Northeast Regional Director presented a plaque provided by the Northeast Region honoring and thanking Tim for his 8 years of dedicated service as Northeast RD from 1993-2001.

Chair, Jim Elder reported that the website is currently being monitored and maintained by himself and Kelly Hope at the USA Office. Kelly has been instrumental in maintaining club contact and event pages. The committee is always interested in members that wish to participate in the enhancement of the USA Website. Jim invited the USA-K9 committee to submit a link. Jim Elder’s report on file with the Secretary.

Chair, Steve Robinson reported that the World Championship Committee is responsible for selecting and approving the Teams members that compete in both the WUSV and the FCI World Championships. The WCC is also responsible for selection ofthe WUSV Team Captain.

Due to the tragic event of September 11, our WUSV team declined to participate. However, they should all be honored for their hard work and dedication to make the Team. Team Captain, David Puzzo should especially be honored for his efforts, and resources. Final standings at the WUSV Championship, held in Maribor, Slovenia on October 3-7 were Germany-first place, Switzerland-second, Sweden-third.

We were fortunate to have three USA members represent us at the FCI Championship also held in Slovenia, September 14-16. Vicki Keller and Bara Radhol finished 12^th place overall. Other USA members that competed at the FCI Championships were:

Steve explained the selection process for both the WUSV and the FCI Championship. Currently, the first seven members go to the WUSV, the 8^th and 9^th USA members depending on how many GSD’s are chosen to the FCI team would go in the next order, after which the alternates are chosen.

The WCC will not be recommending any changes in the selection process for either the WUSV or the FCI. The WCC conducted an online survey with the WCC members, WUSV and FCI Team members. The results indicated our National Events should be held in locations that are weather friendly. Several people recommended that we have one event centrally located and repeated every year. Almost unanimously the group endorsed the three trial/two top score format. All trials should be handler friendly with conveniences given priority towards the handler.

The Egon Vollrath Memorial Fund has been established for those who wish to help our future team members with expenses. The Team wishes to thank Egon, posthumously, and his family for providing the uniforms for the 2001 Team. Report on file with Secretary.

David Puzzo asked all members to acknowledge the generosity of Carlos Rojas for his contributions to the 2001 Team. Mike Hamilton added, that all restricted donations would be used towards next year’s team.

Kay Koerner asked to be notified by anyone having information on Hal Soel or Wayne Hammond. Kay Koerner asked to be contacted by anyone with information of the pioneers in our organization. Kay would also like information on any of our earliest National Event competitors. Kay asked that all clubs send her information and/or photos from their first trial.

Chair of the Nominating Committee, Lyle Roetemeyer thanked the present members of his committee for their help. After three terms on this committee Lyle will not seek re-election. Lyle requested potential 2002 candidates send their letter of intent to the committee well in advance of the 30-day notification deadline.

The Nominating Committee (NC) has chosen Debbie Zappia, Gayle Kirkwood, and Diane Miller. The Secretary received letters of intent from Martin Vollrath and Laurel Carle. Mark Przybylski nominated Tim Cruser, seconded by Jim Elder.

Debbie Zappia, and Tim Cruser spoke briefly; Lyle read Gayle Kirkwood’s, Laurel Carle’s, and Martin Vollrath’s letters of intent. And also spoke in behalf of Diane Miller. VOTE: Debbie Zappia-56, Martin Vollrath-54, Tim Cruser-50, Laurel Carle-25, Diane Miller-22.

The NC received letters of intent from Vickie Bartley, Debbie Zappia, Jeff Lawless, and Barbara White. Debbie Zappia asked to have her name withdrawn. John Koerner nominated Kay Koerner seconded by Diane Madigan, Carla Griffith nominated Dena McGowan seconded by Jeff Pomeroy, Mark Przybylski nominated Shelby Yeakle seconded by Debbie Roetemeyer. Lyle read Vickie Bartley’s and Jeff Lawless’ letters of intent. Barbara White, Kay Koerner, Dena McGowan, and Shelby Yeakle spoke briefly. VOTE: Jeff Lawless-55, Vickie Bartley-53, Barbara White-52, Kay Koerner-52, Dena McGowan-42, Shelby Yeakle-30.

The NC received a letter of intent from Dena McGowan. Dena asked that her name be withdrawn. The secretary received letters of intent from Willi Ortner and Dean Calderon. Mark Przybylski described the duties of this committee. Dena McGowan nominated Debbie Zappia, seconded by Julia Grayson. Julia Grayson nominated Jeff Palmeroy seconded by Carla Griffith, Carla Griffith nominated Greg Bennett, Greg Bennett did not attend the meeting, there was no second, and no letter of intent on file with the secretary. Diane Madigan motioned to close the nominations, seconded by Lyle. Lyle read Willi Ortner’s and Dean Calderon’s letters of intent, Debbie Zappia, Jeff Palmeroy spoke briefly. Peggy Park, Kay Koerner, and Jim Elder spoke on Dean’s behalf. VOTE: Willi Ortner-36, Dean Calderon-35, Debbie Zappia-31, Jeff Palmeroy-12.

Julia Grayson nominated Jeff Palmeroy seconded by Dena McGowan. No other nominations. Dena moved to close nominations, seconded Dena moved seconded by Carla Griffith to accept Jeff Palmeroy by acclamation. VOTE: Approved Unanimously

Tabled motion that effective in 2002, the GSD Championship be taken out of rotation and be in the Nashville area on a permanent basis. Tim Cruser, maker of the motion withdrew this item.

1. Motion by Diane Madigan, seconded by Nathaniel Roque to ratify the Executive Board’s (EB) approved decision to accept GSDCA-WDA scorebooks provided they are certified by the USA Office and non-member fees are paid where applicable. Discussion. Dena McGowan called for the vote seconded by Peggy Park. VOTE: Approved Unanimously

Mike Hamilton directed the secretary to write a letter to the President of the WDA and also the President of the GSDCA the result of this vote.

2. Motion to ratify the amended EB decision of the Executive Board that in the event of extenuating circumstances, a Judge that is unable to fulfill his duties at a USA National Event, may be replaced by any USA recognized, qualified judge approved by the Director of Judges and/or Trial or Show Chairperson in the absence of the Director of Judges. Addition to USA Judge’s Program Number 11.A. Discussion Dena McGowan called for the vote seconded by Lyle Roetemeyer. VOTE: Approved Unanimously

3. Motion by Nathaniel Roque seconded by Mark Przybylski to ratify the EB approved SchH3 Club application rules. VOTE: Yes-58, No-2, Abstain-1 Motion Passed

4. Motion by Floyd Wilson seconded by Tom Quaka to conduct all future trials in compliance with SV rules. VOTE: Yes-48, No-11, Abstain-2. Motion Passed

5. Agenda Item, to ratify the amended Executive Board decision, seconded by John Oliver to accept reciprocity with the judges from the GSSCC, (German Shepherd Schutzhund Club of Canada) with respect to Breed Titles. VOTE: Yes-57, No-0, Abstain-3. Motion Passed

6. Motion to accept the EB approved 6 New Training Titles and amend the 1979 GB approved Sports Medal Program’s Point Schedule to include the 6 New Training Titles, with the following addition:

This program will be for USA trials conducted by USA recognized judges. USA recognized judges are welcome to judge these titles. The results will be posted on a separate Bewertungsliste.

Kris Taves amended the program seconded by Jeff Palmeroy to add: These titles require a “G” or better rating for the purpose of the Sports Medal Program. VOTE on amendment Yes-53, No-5, Abstain-3 Motion To Amend the Program Passed

John Koerner further amended the program, seconded by Diane Madigan that these points may only be counted once per title per dog. VOTE on amendment Yes-57, No-1, Abstain-3. Motion to Amend the Program Passed.

Motion by Dena McGowan, seconded by Julia Grayson to accept the whole amended program VOTE: Yes-58, No-0, Abstain-3. Motion Passed. Copy of approved amended program included with minutes.

Trial Secretaries are not eligible to compete in trial. These are SV rules, according to our previously stated policy; all SV rules will be followed.

Approve Carl Griffiths as a fully licensed USA Judge. VOTE: Approved Unanimously

Approve Ann Marie Chaffin as a fully licensed USA Judge VOTE: Approved Unanimously

Ratify the Executive Boards decision to approve Karen McIntyre as breed judge VOTE: Yes-60, No-0, Abstain-1.

Approve David Milmore as a probationary licensed USA Judge VOTE by secret ballot Yes-58, No-1

Mike Hamilton read Bill Plumb’s prepared statement regarding our IRS obligation. The IRS has assessed us $25,134 ($14,631 in taxes, $8,511 of interest and $1,992 in penalties). This continues to accrue interest at a current rate of 9%. We have appealed this without success. This obligation amounts to $5 per individual member or $125 per member club. Bill would like to see a program approved to pay this off very quickly.

John Koerner motioned seconded by John Oliver that each club be assessed a one time $125 fee payable by June 1^st. Discussion. More Discussion. Jim Elder suggested that all clubs voluntarily pay $125, and each member pay $5. All donations should be made payable to USA earmarked for Tax Relief.

John Koerner and John Oliver withdrew their motion and the Office will send a statement to all clubs, requesting the voluntary assessment, and the RD’s also write letters to their clubs.

Eligible for breeding are all dogs entered in the USA Breed Book who, on the day of breeding have a training title awarded under the training regulations (SchH 1-3, IP 3, HGH or a training title of equivalent value) and in addition, have received a show rating of "good" at a USA Breed Show, and have an acceptable hip dysplasia rating.

Motion by Lyle Roetemeyer, seconded Karen Henkel to accept the new zoning and event rotation as recommened by the NEC. VOTE: Yes-58, No-1, Abstain-0. Motion Passed

Proposal by Debra Zappia that the National Championship end on Saturday and that the General Board Meeting takes place on Wednesday, prior to the event. Debra Zappia tabled this motion, No second.

Electronic training devices were discussed. The Executive Board will take this issue under advisement.

Al Govednik, AWDF delegate, announced the 2002 AWDF Championship in Los Banos, California. All USA-GSD handlers that declare themselves through the USA Office are entitled to compete in this championship. Entries will be for SchH1, SchH2, and IPO3. You must have a SchH3 to compete at the IPO3 level. The two top IPO3 teams will be chosen to compete on the FCI World Team as members of the AWDF organization. Contact Peggy Park, regarding this event. Spring 2002, our Southeast Region will host an FH2 Championship, the top two dogs will be chosen to compete in Europe. Contact Floyd Wilson, regarding this event.

Scott Boedecker proposed making changes to our Qualification Process for the National Championship.

Motion by John Oliver seconded by Kay Koerner to modify the existing rule to read:

Any SchH3 dog imported into the US whose scorebook is registered with the USA Administrator of Records Office after January 1 of any calendar year must attain a qualifying score by August first of the same calendar year for entrance into that year’s Nationals. This rules does not pertain to imported SchH1 or SchH2 dogs or their equivalent. VOTE: Yes-58, No-1 Motion Passed

Kay Koerner asked that the Secretary’s notes be placed on the website, prior to the minutes being published.

Dena McGowan motioned to adjourn seconded by Carla Griffith. Approved Unanimously

To the best of my knowledge, these minutes are an accurate record of the proceedings of this meeting.

Each member club shall be responsible for submitting the dues of its individual members to USA. A complete current membership list shall be submitted to the USA Treasurer by each September 1^st.

A complete and current membership list including full addresses must be included with the club’s annual dues. This information will be sent to the USA office for approval by the Treasurer. Clubs that fail to submit both annual dues and membership lists will not be granted trial authorizations. Should club lists and dues not be submitted by the due date, any previously approved trial authorizations will be recalled. Authorizations will be restored when dues and membership lists are submitted and approved. VOTE: Approved Unanimously

Candidates not nominated. One need not be nominated to receive votes for office. “Write in” balloting is permitted. VOTE: Approved Unanimously