Executive Board Ballots 2012

2012

Approve 2013 WDC Judges Slate
E-Ballot #28-12

Motion by Nathaniel Roque, USCA Director of Judges, on behalf of the Judges Committee, seconded by Michele Scarberry USCA Secretary, to approve the 2013 USCA Working Dog Championship Selection of Judges

Background —The Host Club has requested, and the USCA Judges Committee has approved the following slate of Judges for the event:

Yes – (19) – P-Jim Alloway, VP-Frank Phillips, S-Michele Scarberry, DOJ-Nathaniel Roque, Karen MacIntyre,NBW DAL’s- Dennis Vander Linde, Mike Diehl, Claudia Romard, Deb Krsnich, RD’s -Jennifer Acevedo, Kevin Nance, Pedro Jimenez, Vicki Keller, Gail Kendall, Dena McGowan, Mark Scarberry, Mark Hamilton, Scott Hedger, Don Yelle
No – (0)
Abstain – (1) – T-Sean O’Kane
No Response -(0) –

Motion carried 1/4/2013

Amend 2013 USCA Budget
E-Ballot #27-12

Motion by Sean O’Kane, and seconded by Dennis Vander Linde to amend the 2013 USCA Budget.USCA needs a $5,000.00 increase in expenses for general counsel. The Counsel will represent the United Schutzhund Clubs of America for the remainder of the 2013 fiscal year. The expenses will reduce the profit USCA projected from $26,340 to $21,340.

Background — USCA has retained an attorney for $500 per month. With 6 months left in our fiscal year, that is $3,000 total. The additional $2,000 is requested should we require additional legal expenses

Yes – (20) – P-Jim Alloway, VP-Frank Phillips,T-Sean O’Kane , S-Michele Scarberry, DOJ-Nathaniel Roque, NBW-Karen MacIntyre, DAL’s- Dennis Vander Linde, Mike Diehl, Claudia Romard, Deb Krsnich, RD’s -Jennifer Acevedo, Kevin Nance, Pedro Jimenez, Vicki Keller, Gail Kendall, Dena McGowan, Mark Scarberry, Mark Hamilton,Scott Hedger. Don Yelle
No – (0)
Abstain – (0)
No Response -(0)

Motion carried 12/27/2012

18mo Probationary License for USCA Judge Al Govednik
E-Ballot #26-12

Nathaniel Roque, USCA Director of Judges, on behalf of the Judges Committee, second by Frank Phillips, USCA Vice President, 18 months Probationary License for USCA Judge Al Govednik

Background — This motion is to support the USCA Judges Committees’ findings and recommendation for the following sanctions to USCA Judge Al Govednik based on a formal complaint filed by USCA Members of Machtig Strom Sportdog Verein. The complaint was found to have merit regarding three incidents involving conduct and behavior unbecoming of a USCA Judge on Aug 8, 2011. The USCA Judges Committee has investigated the complaint and found that the judge did act in a manor unbecoming a USCA Judge and recommends the following sanctions be imposed and enforced by the USCA Executive Board:

  1. Judges License is reissued to a “Probationary License” for a period of 18 months. Effective 1/1/2013 to 6/30/2014 (description of a Probationary License below)
    1. “Probationary Judge” may judge USCA Club Level Events. All titles awarded are fully valid as with any licensed judge
    2. “Probationary Judge” may not judge any Championships during the probationary period. (Regional or above).
    3. After 12 months probation with a clean record, probationary judges may be considered to judge Regional Championships with the Director of Judges permission.
    4. A “Probationary Judge” may not judge for any organization other than USCA for the first 12 months of their probation and then after 12 months may be considered to judge club level events with the Director of Judges permission.
    5. A “Probationary Judge” may not judge outside of the United States
    6. During the “Probationary Judge” period any complaint found to have merit against the judge will result in either suspension of no less than 6 months and no longer than 1 year or permanent revocation of the judges license
  2. USCA Judge Al Govednik must issue a formal apology to the United Schutzhund Clubs of America for his conduct and behavior during the incidents on Aug 8, 2011. This apology will be published in the official magazine of the organization and posted on the USCA website for a period of 30 days.

On completion of the 18 months probation and providing the judge has remained active with a minimum of six assignments during this time period his full license will be reinstated.

Yes – (17) – P-Jim Alloway, VP-Frank Phillips, T-Sean O’Kane, S-Michele Scarberry, DOJ-Nathaniel Roque, , DAL- Dennis Vander Linde, , Claudia Romard, Deb Krsnich, Mike Diehl, RD’s -Jennifer Acevedo, Scott Hedger, Pedro Jimenez, Vicki Keller, Dena McGowan, Mark Scarberry, Don Yelle, Kevin Nance
No – (0)
Abstain – (1) – RD Mark Hamilton
No Response -(2) – NBW-Karen MacIntyre, RD-Gail Kendall,

Motion carried 12/14/2012

Expense Reimbursement for Sean Murphy, Helper for the 2011 German Shepherd Dog Schutzhund 3 National Championship 
E-Ballot #25-12

Motion by: Dennis Vander Linde, seconded by Sean O’Kane, to reimburse Sean Murphy, in the amount of $750, for travel and hotel expenses incurred to perform helper work at the 2011 German Shepherd Dog Schutzhund 3 National Championship.

Background — The 2012 Budget Fiscal Year closed in June 2012. Sean Murphy, one of the helpers at the 2011 German Shepherd Dog Schutzhund 3 National Championship, recently submitted his travel and hotel expenses that he incurred as a result of his performing the helper work at 2011 German Shepherd Dog Schutzhund 3 National Championship. The amount of his expenses total $833.75. The maximum reimbursement amount is $750 per the USCA Helper Program. Sean Murphy was late in submitting his expenses due to an oversight on his part. Since the 2012 Budget Fiscal Year is closed, this motion is to reimburse Sean Murphy from the 2013 Fiscal Year Budget. All helpers have been reminded to submit their expenses for reimbursement within 30 days of the event in an attempt to avoid this situation from recurring.

Yes – (19) – P-Jim Alloway, VP-Frank Phillips, T-Sean O’Kane, S-Michele Scarberry, DOJ-Nathaniel Roque,NBW-Karen MacIntyre, DAL- Dennis Vander Linde, Mike Diehl, Claudia Romard, Deb Krsnich, RD’s -Jennifer Acevedo, , Pedro Jimenez, Vicki Keller, Gail Kendall, Dena McGowan, Mark Scarberry, Don Yelle, Mark Hamilton
No – (0)
Abstain – (0) –
No Response -(1) – RD–Scott Hedger

Motion carried 12/14/2012

Approval of Judges for 2013 USCA Sieger Show
E-Ballot #24-12

Motion made by Karen MacIntyre, seconded by Michelle Scarberry to approve Rudiger Mai and Rainer Mast as our USCA Sieger show judges for 2013. Her Mai will judge all the male classes and Herr Mast will judge all the female classes Background: We are requesting 2 SV judges this year because I (Karen MacIntyre, NBW) cannot judge due to a conflict with my son’s college graduation. The BAC has approved these judges; Stephanie Dunion has verified their availability.

Background — We are requesting 2 SV judges this year because I (Karen MacIntyre, NBW) cannot judge due to a conflict with my son’s college graduation. The BAC has approved these judges; Stephanie Dunion has verified their availability.

Submitted: # — Closes: # Yes – (19) – P-Jim Alloway, VP-Frank Phillips, T-Sean O’Kane, S-Michele Scarberry, DOJ-Nathaniel Roque, DAL- Dennis Vander Linde, , Claudia Romard, Deb Krsnich,Mike Diehl, RD’s -Jennifer Acevedo, , Scott Hedger, Pedro Jimenez, Vicki Keller, Dena McGowan, Gail Kendall, Mark Scarberry, Don Yell, Kevin Nance, Mark Hamilton
Abstain – (1) – NBW Karen MacIntyre
Motion carried 12/10/2012

Dog aggression incident / report 11/9/2012 -Dan Windus & Connor z Westwood
E-Ballot #23-12

Motion by Nathaniel Roque, seconded by Dennis VanderLinde: To support the Judges Committee decision regarding “Dog aggression incident / report on 11/9/2012, involving handler Dan Windus and Connor z Westwood

Background —

The above named dog “Connor z Westwood” Chip no. 98101000001929089, Reg. no. DN 28861702 and Handler Dan Windus were involved in an unprovoked aggressive incident during a sanctioned USCA Trial on the date 11/9/2012 hosted by Midwest Hundesport Association, Kansas City, MO. The dog attacking and biting USCA/SV Judge Johannes Grewe.

The USCA Judges Committee received and reviewed a report involving an act of “Aggression” against a USCA Judge at a sanctioned Trial. The Judge requested to impose a 2nd level offense to this incident as allowed in the USCA Dog Aggression Policy and the Judges Committee supports and recommends that this second Level Offense be imposed.

This includes a 12-month ban for the dog from all USCA Events, and a 6-month ban for the handler from USCA Events. All AWDF Member Clubs have also been notified.

Yes – (20) – P-Jim Alloway, VP-Frank Phillips, T-Sean O’Kane, S-Michele Scarberry, DOJ-Nathaniel Roque, NBW-Karen MacIntyre, DAL- Dennis Vander Linde, Mike Diehl, Claudia Romard, Deb Krsnich, RD-Jennifer Acevedo, Mark Hamilton, Scott Hedger, Pedro Jimenez, Vicki Keller, Dena McGowan, Kevin Nance, Gail Kendall, Mark Scarberry, Don Yelle
No – (0)
Abstain – (0) –
No Response -(0) –

Motion carried 11/27/2012

Expense Reimbursement for Sean Murphy, Helper for the 2012 WDC
E-Ballot #22-12

Motion by Dennis Vander Linde, seconded by Sean O’Kane, to reimburse Sean Murphy, in the amount of $432.94, for travel and hotel expenses incurred to perform helper work at the 2012 USCA Working Dog Championships.

Background —The 2012 Budget Fiscal Year closed in June 2012. Sean Murphy, one of the helpers at the 2012 USCA WDC, recently submitted his travel and hotel expenses that he incurred as a result of his performing the helper work at 2012 WDC. The amount of his expenses total $432.94. The maximum reimbursement amount is $750 per the USCA Helper Program. Sean was late in submitting hisexpenses due to an oversight on his part. Since the 2012 Budget Fiscal Year is closed, this motion is to reimburse Sean from the 2013 Fiscal Year Budget.

Yes – (13) – T-Sean O’Kane, NBW-Tim Burke, DAL-Jim Alloway, DAL-Al Govednik, DAL-Dennis Vander Linde, RD-Jennifer Acevedo, RD-Mark Hamilton, RD-Scott Hedger, RD-Pedro Jimenez, RD-Vicki Keller, RD-Kevin Nance, , RD-Mark Scarberry, RD-Don Yelle
No – (0)
Abstain – (0) –
No Response -(6) – P-Lyle Roetemeyer, VP-Craig Groh, DoJ-NathanielRoque, DAL-Johannes Grewe, RD-Dena McGowan, RD-Gail Kendall

Motion carried 10/29/2012

Change name from USA German Shepherd Dog National Championship to USCA German Shepherd Dog IPO 3 National Championship
E-Ballot #21-12

Motion by Al Govednik, seconded by Dennis Vander Linde. Motion to change the name of the USA German Shepherd Dog National Schutzhund Championship to: USCA German Shepherd Dog IPO 3 National Championship.

Yes – (16) – P-Lyle Roetemeyer, VP-Craig Groh, T-Sean O’Kane, S-Marsha Asbury, DoJ-Nathaniel Roque, NBW-Tim Burke, DAL-Al Govednik, DAL-Johannes Grewe, DAL-Dennis Vander Linde, RD-Jennifer Acevedo, RD-Mark Hamilton, RD-Pedro Jimenez, RD-Vicki Keller, RD-Dena McGowan, RD-Kevin Nance, RD-Gail Kendall, RD-Don Yelle
No – (0)
Abstain – (0) –
No Response -(2) – RD-Scott Hedger, RD-Mark Scarberry

Needs Further Discussion – (1) – Jim Alloway

Motion carried 10/22/2012

FH Title required prior to competing in the FH Championship
E-Ballot #20-12

Motion by Mark Scarberry, seconded by Johannes Grewe, to require. any dog that competes in the FH championship – must have received an FH within the previous year prior to entering the competition..

Yes – (15) – P-Lyle Roetemeyer, T-Sean O’Kane, DoJ-Nathaniel Roque, NBW-Tim Burke, DAL-Jim Alloway, DAL-Al Govednik, DAL-Johannes Grewe, DAL-Dennis Vander Linde, RD-Scott Hedger, RD-Pedro Jimenez, RD-Vicki Keller, RD-Dena McGowan, RD-Kevin Nance, RD-Mark Scarberry, RD-Don Yelle
No – (3) – VP-Craig Groh, RD-Jennifer Acevedo, RD-Gail Kendall). Further Discussion-1 RD-Mark Hamilton).
Abstain – (0) –
No Response -(0) –

Motion carried 10/18/2012

Regional Championship event waiver for entry in the GSD National Championships for Bogdan Sergo and dog Fenja
E-Ballot #19-12

Motion by Don Yelle, seconded by Nathaniel Roque, to allow Bogdan Sergo to enter the GSD National Championships without the regional requirement.

Background — Mr. Sergo has qualified for his home country of Slovenia for the WUSV Championships in Austria this year with his dog Fenja. He has showed her in two different club trials this year and achieved scores of 280 and 279. The last day to check in for the WUSV is Sunday the 30th of September. This is the same weekend as our Regional Championships. It is also the same weekend as the Northeast Regional Championship (the next region to ours) and there is not another Regional Championship after the WUSV Championships and before the Nationals. He is leaving for Europe on Friday the 28th of September and does not return until the 9th of October.

Yes – (17) – P-Lyle Roetemeyer, DoJ-Nathaniel Roque, NBW-Tim Burke, DAL-Jim Alloway, DAL-Al Govednik, DAL-Johannes Grewe, DAL-Dennis Vander Linde, RD-Jennifer Acevedo, RD-Mark Hamilton, RD-Scott Hedger, RD-Pedro Jimenez, RD-Vicki Keller, RD-Dena McGowan, RD-Kevin Nance, RD-Gail Kendall, RD-Mark Scarberry, RD-Don Yelle
No – (0)
Abstain – (0) –
No Response – (2) – VP-Craig Groh, T-Sean O’Kane

Motion carried 9/12/2012

USCA 2012 German Shepherd IPO3 Championship Slate of Pre-Selected Helpers
E-Ballot #18-12

Motion by Dennis Vander Linde, seconded by Mark Scarberry, to approve the USCA Helper Committee’s recommended slate of Pre-selected Helpers for the USCA 2012 German Shepherd IPO3 Championship:

Background — Five (5) Helpers submitted their qualifications to be considered for pre-selection to perform the helperwork at the 2012 USCA 2012 German Shepherd IPO3 Championship. After reviewing the qualifications of the Helpers, each Helper Committee Member confidentially provided the Helper Program Director/Committee Chair with their selected Helpers for the event. Per the Helper Program ,four (4) Helpers must be pre-selected for the USCA German Shepherd IPO3 Championship. The above referenced Helpers had the highest total number of votes. Final selection (i.e., front-half, back-half and alternate) will be determined by helper tryouts at the Championship as outlined in the USCA Helper Program. The remaining helper who was not pre-selected was notified by email of such, thanked for submitting their qualifications, supporting the USCA Helper Program, and encouraged to submit their qualifications for USCA’s 2013 National Events.

Yes – (17) – P-Lyle Roetemeyer, VP-Craig Groh, T-Sean O’Kane, DoJ-Nathaniel Roque, NBW-Tim Burke, DAL-Jim Alloway, DAL-Al Govednik, DAL-Johannes Grewe, DAL-Dennis Vander Linde, RD-Jennifer Acevedo, RD-Mark Hamilton, , RD-Pedro Jimenez, RD-Vicki Keller, RD-Dena McGowan, RD-Kevin Nance, RD-Gail Kendall, RD-Mark Scarberry,
No – (0)
Abstain – (1) – RD-Don Yelle
No Response -(1) – RD-Scott Hedger

Motion carried – 09/24/2012

Judges for the 2012 National
E-Ballot #17-12

Motion to approve the following judges for the 2012 National

Background — The judges committee has approved the following slate of judges for the final approval by the executive board for the 2012 national championship.

Yes – (16) – P-Lyle Roetemeyer, DoJ-Nathaniel Roque, NBW-Tim Burke, DAL-Jim Alloway, DAL-Al Govednik, DAL-Johannes Grewe, DAL-Dennis Vander Linde, RD-Jennifer Acevedo, RD-Mark Hamilton, RD-Scott Hedger, RD-Pedro Jimenez, RD-Vicki Keller, RD-Dena McGowan, RD-Kevin Nance, RD-Gail Kendall, RD-Mark Scarberry
No – (1) – RD-Don Yelle
Abstain – (2) – VP-Craig Groh, T-Sean O’Kane
No Response – (0)

Motion carried 9/26/2012

Motion to contribute $1,000 per USCA member for the 2012 FCI IPO Champoionship in Hungary
E-Ballot #16-12

Motion by Tim Burke, seconded by Kevin Nance, (Motion for USCA to reimburse up to $1000 USD in travel expenses to each USCA member that represents USCA on the AWDF team and attends the 2012 FCI IPO Championship in Hungary).

Background — USCA members Dave Kroyer, Mike Diehl, Sean O’Kane and Frans Slaman and their German shepherd dogs all made the AWDF Team representing the United States at the 2012 FCI IPO Championships in Hungary. We should support our USCA members representing USCA on the AWDF Team by donating $1000 to each one of them to help defray the cost of travel associated with traveling with their GSD’s to Europe and back home.

Yes – (18) – P-Lyle Roetemeyer, VP-Craig Groh, DoJ-Nathaniel Roque, NBW-Tim Burke, DAL-Jim Alloway, DAL-Al Govednik, DAL-Johannes Grewe, DAL-Dennis Vander Linde, RD-Jennifer Acevedo, RD-Mark Hamilton, RD-Scott Hedger, RD-Pedro Jimenez, RD-Vicki Keller, RD-Dena McGowan, RD-Kevin Nance, RD-Gail Kendall, RD-Mark Scarberry, RD-Don Yelle
No – (0)
Abstain – (1) – T-Sean O’Kane
No Response -(0) –

Motion carried 8/29/2012

One-time waiver of the August 1 deadline for Lisa Jacquin to enter the 2012 USCA Nationals with an IPO3 dog imported in May
E-Ballot #14-12

Motion by Sean O’Kane, seconded by Pedro Jimenez to grant a one-time waiver to Lisa Jacquin for the requirement of earning a 270 at a USCA event prior to August 1 of the same year she imported an IPO3 dog as a prerequisite to attending the Nationals. This would NOT alleviate Lisa of the requirement to still earn a 270 at a club trial AND participate in a Regional’s.

Background

There are several restraints on competing at the USCA Nationals for a dog imported after the first of the year:

  1. The dog must earn their 270 qualifying score by August 1, (Of the same year).
  2. The dog must participate in the Regional’s.

This competitor:

  1. Imported a dog in early May.
  2. Attempted on June 23 to get the 270, but was unsuccessful due to tracking.
  3. Due to leaving the country, will not be able to compete again before August 1, 2012. (Representing the USA at the Olympics in London in official capacity)

Analysis

  1. The August 1 rule was enacted in 2001 to prevent competitors from buying “ringers” to just come in fully trained and compete at Nationals.
  2. The 270+Regional regional requirement was designed to increase regional participation AND promote a standard to attempt to ensure that we had higher quality performances at the Nationals.

In the case at hand, the competitor achieved LESS than 270 at the trial before the Aug 1 deadline (NOT A RINGER) and now still should have to meet requirement #2 above. If she does so, what reasoning is there to keep her out of the Nationals?

My opinion is that we grant a waiver for this competitor and then discuss this with the GB in Nashville with an amendment to the Aug 1 deadline rule. Our #2 alone most likely accomplishes our objectives.

Yes – (13) – T-Sean O’Kane, DoJ-Nathaniel Roque, NBW-Tim Burke, DAL-Jim Alloway, DAL-AlGovednik, DAL-Dennis Vander Linde, RD-Mark Hamilton, RD-Scott Hedger, RD-Pedro Jimenez, RD-Dena McGowan, RD-Gail Kendall, RD-Mark Scarberry, RD-Don Yelle
No – (0)
Abstain – (0) –
No Response -(5) -(P-Lyle Roetemeyer, VP-Craig Groh, DAL-Johannes Grewe, RD-Jennifer Acevedo, RD-Kevin Nance

Needs Further Discussion – (1) – Vicki Keller
Motion carried 8/7/2012

Amend SchH3 name and add recognition of FCI Judges from a WUSV Organization
E-Ballot #12-12

Motion by Nathaniel Roque, seconded by Jim Alloway To change the current name of the “Schutzhund 3 Club” to the “IPO 3 / Schutzhund 3 Club” all requirements to become a member will remain the same except for the addition that IPO titles are recognized and titles awarded at USCA Events under a FCI Judge from a WUSV member Organization are also accepted:

  1. All titles must be earned as a USCA Member.
  2. Titles must be obtained under a USCA, SV, GSSCC Canadian Judge or a FCI Licensed Judge from a WUSV Member Club.
  3. Trials must be hosted by a USCA club or a USCA-recognized AWDF breed club (German Shepherd Dog Club of America, WDA events are not recognized for the purpose of attaining membership in the USCA SchH3 Club).
  4. The titles of BH, IPO /SchH1, IPO/SchH2, and IPO/ SchH3 must be earned by the same handler on a previously untitled dog. All protection scores must adhere to USCA standards.
  5. All titles must be acquired at a USCA recognized event. An officer of the USCA recognized AWDF organization must confirm the earned title in writing to include that the presiding judge meets the above requirements. A note from the presiding USCA, SV, GSSCC Canadian or FCI (WUSV) Judge may also be used for confirmation. The USCA Office will not be responsible for acquiring this information.
  6. A copy of the USCA / AWDF scorebook or USCA certified scorebook.

Background — With new rules and Schutzhund Titles no longer awarded the inclusion of IPO into this award is needed. In order to still properly acknowledge the accomplishments of those members that earned entry into the club under the Schutzhund requirements I believe it is important to maintain the SchH in the name , so the change to IPO 3/ SchH 3 Club is correct. Additional changes in this motion are the inclusion of FCI Licensed Judges from WUSV Member Organizations. The USCA now also allows the use of FCI Licensed Judges in their authorized events as long as the FCI License is issued from a WUSV Member Club (a German Shepherd Dog Judge). Also all references to USA have been updated to USCA.

Yes – (19) – P-Lyle Roetemeyer, VP-Craig Groh, T-Sean O’Kane, S-Marsha Asbury, DoJ-Nathaniel Roque, NBW-Tim Burke, DAL-Jim Alloway, DAL-Al Govednik, DAL-Johannes Grewe, DAL-Dennis Vander Linde, RD-Jennifer Acevedo, RD-Mark Hamilton, RD-Scott Hedger, RD-Pedro Jimenez, RD-Vicki Keller, RD-Dena McGowan, RD-Kevin Nance, RD-Gail Kendall, RD-Mark Scarberry, RD-Don Yelle
No – (0)
Abstain – (0)
No Response – (0)

Motion carried 8/03/2012

title of ballot
E-Ballot #11-12

Motion by Craig Groh, seconded by Mark Hamilton, to select Way Out West SchH Club as the host club for the USCA 2013 German Shepherd IPO3 Championship. Bid submitted to the National Events committee

Background — National Events Committee has reviewed and approved The Way Out West SchH Club as a suitable host club.

Submitted: # — Closes: # Yes – (17) – (P-Lyle Roetemeyer, VP-Craig Groh, DoJ-Nathaniel Roque, NBW-Tim Burke, DAL-Jim Alloway, DAL-Al Govednik, DAL-Dennis Vander Linde, RD-Jennifer Acevedo, RD-Mark Hamilton, RD-Scott Hedger, RD-Pedro Jimenez, RD-Vicki Keller, RD-Dena McGowan, RD-Kevin Nance, RD-Gail Kendall, RD-Mark Scarberry, RD-Don Yelle
No – (0)
Abstain – (0) –
No Response -(2) – T-Sean O’Kane, DAL-Johannes Grewe

Motion carried 7/4/2012

Approve USCA’s Fiscal Year 2013 Budget
E-Ballot #10-12

Motion by Sean O’Kane, seconded by Craig Groh, to approve the fiscal year 2013 budget with total income $ 582,220.00 and total expenses of $ 555,880.00 (including taxes), and net income of $ 26,340.00

Click here to view 2013 budget, (274K PDF)

Yes – (17) – P-Lyle Roetemeyer, VP-Craig Groh, T-Sean O’Kane, NBW-Tim Burke, DAL-Jim Alloway, DAL-Al Govednik, DAL-Johannes Grewe, DAL-Dennis Vander Linde, RD-Jennifer Acevedo, RD-Mark Hamilton, RD-Scott Hedger, RD-Pedro Jimenez, RD-Vicki Keller, RD-Gail Kendall, RD-Dena McGowan, RD-Kevin Nance, RD-Don Yelle), NR–2(DOJ-Nathaniel Roque, RD-Mark Scarberry
No – (0)
Abstain – (0)
No Response – (0)

Motion carried 6/30/2012

Assistance For Onetime Expenses: Regional Conformation Show, WUSV Universal Seiger Team, Regional Educational, National Event Crate
E-Ballot #09-12

Motion by Sean O’Kane, seconded by Craig Groh for the following funding:

Proposed One-time Expense
Assistance with Regional Conformation Show expenses ($1000/region) $10,000
Assistance with WUSV Universal Sieger team member expenses, ($1000/member $500/team Captain) $4500
Assistance with Regional Educational expenses ($1,500/region) $15,000
Make a National Event Crate $2000
Total proposed onetime Expense $31,500

Background — As treasurer, I am pleased to announce we have had a good year financially so I am here along with other line officers to ask for your vote to give back. Currently, we are showing a profit of over $100,000.00 for the year. Along with Craig and Lyle, I would like your vote on the following business:

  1. Assistance with Regional Conformation Shows – So many regions struggle with funding and putting on the Regional Conformation Show. This money will be sent to the Region in order of help offset costs of putting on the Regional Show.
  2. Assistance with WUSV Universal Sieger Team – We had 4 members and a Captain go this year. This is the second year we sent a team and the Universal Sieger Team is gaining success. This money will help offset travel expenses for the team. $1,000.00 to a team member and $500 to the Captain
  3. Assistance with Regional Education Expense – This will give each Regional Director the ability to spend up to $1,500 in their region for an educational seminar. We have had great success in the past and this has been well received by the membership. The regional director will be in charge of where the funds go and the money is for a non-for-profit event which must be offered to all members in USCA
  4. National Events Crate – Up to $2,000 will be authorized so that we can create a National Event Crate so that equipment can be purchased and sent to each National Event.

The above proposal totals $31,500.00.

Yes – (19) – P-Lyle Roetemeyer, VP-Craig Groh, T-Sean O’Kane, DoJ-Nathaniel Roque, NBW-Tim Burke, DAL-Jim Alloway, DAL-Al Govednik, DAL-Johannes Grewe, DAL-Dennis Vander Linde, RD-Jennifer Acevedo, RD-Mark Hamilton, RD-Scott Hedger, RD-Pedro Jimenez, RD-Vicki Keller, RD-Dena McGowan, RD-Kevin Nance, RD-Gail Kendall, RD-Mark Scarberry, RD-Don Yelle
No – (0)
Abstain – (0) –
No Response -(0) –

Motion carried 06/28/2012

Motion to Allow 2 additional international trials to count toward FCI team
E-Ballot #08-12

Motion made by Jim Alloway and seconded by Dennis Vander Linde to allow a USCA member who is declaring for the AWDF/FCI IPO World Championship Team to submit scores from the following Events:

  1. USCA German Shepherd Dog National Championship
  2. USCA Working Dog Championships
  3. AWDF Championship
  4. WUSV Championship
  5. FCI IPO Championship

Background — Currently AWDF rules allow both National and International scores to count toward making the AWDF/FCI IPO World Championship Team. Current USCA policy only allows those who declare for the team to submit scores from the USCA-GSD National Championship, the AWDF Championship, and the USCA Working Dog Championships, where most (if not all) other member clubs of AWDF allow international scores. By not allowing international scores we are imposing greater barriers on our USCA members (and primarily our world competitors) to make the AWDF/FCI IPO World Championship Team than the other AWDF member clubs do. This could result in a qualified USCA member NOT making the team.

Comments — Nathaniel Roque … I completely agree. Unfortunately at this time with the current Qualification Process to declare for the WUSV or FCI Team, our members are required to show at Regionals and sometimes as many as 2 Championships and the Qualifier. This is far to many events for a dog to participate in a year and stay at the top level plus the added expense to the handler to participate in the events. In order for USCA to continue to support and show case our members we need to streamline this process. This motion will help accomplish making it a little easier.

Yes – (17) – P-Lyle Roetemeyer, VP-Craig Groh, T-Sean O’Kane, DOJ-Nathaniel Roque, DAL-Jim Alloway, DAL-Al Govednik, DAL-Dennis Vander Linde, RD-Jennifer Acevedo, RD-Mark Hamilton, RD-Scott Hedger, RD-Pedro Jimenez, RD-Vicki Keller, RD-Dena McGowan, RD-Gail Kendall, RD-Kevin Nance, RD-Mark Scarberry, RD-Don Yelle
No – (0)
Needs Further Discussion – (1) – NBW-Tim Burke
No Response – (1) -DAL Johannes Grewe

Motion carried 5/23/2012

Waive 2012 Regional requirement for USCA GSD National
E-Ballot #07-12

Motion by Jim Alloway, seconded by Dennis Vander Linde to waive the 2012 Regional requirement to attend the USCA GSD National for those handler/dog teams that participate in the 2012 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. The USCA EB will develop an updated qualification process for 2013 and beyond to address this situation.

Comments: Lyle Roetemeyer — Our rules already provide a waiver for those teams representing USCA on the WUSV and FCI World teams. Many, if not most, of these teams will participate in the qualification trial that this motion would add to those receiving a waiver.

Yes – (15) – P-Lyle Roetemeyer, VP-Craig Groh, T-Sean O’Kane, DAL-Jim Alloway, DAL-Al Govednik, DAL-Dennis Vander Linde, RD-Jennifer Acevedo, RD-Mark Hamilton, RD-Scott Hedger, RD-Pedro Jimenez, RD-Gail Kendall, RD-Vicki Keller, RD-Kevin Nance, RD-Mark Scarberry, RD-Don Yelle
No – (0)
Needs Further Discussion – (1) – NBW-Tim Burke
No Response – (2) – DoJ-Nathaniel Roque, DAL-Johannes Grewe

Motion carried 5/21/12

USCA’s Primary Helper for the 2012 USCA-GSDCA WUSV Team Qualification Trialt
E-Ballot #05-12

Motion by Dennis Vander Linde, seconded by Mark Scarberry, to approve the USCA Helper Committee’s recommendation of Don Yelle to be USCA’s Primary Helper at the 2012 UScA-GSDCA WUSV Team Qualification Trial.

Background — The helper selection process for the USCA-GSDCA WUSV Team Qualification Trial consists of USCA providing a primary and alternate helper in odd-numbered years and a primary helper in even-numbered years. GSDCA provides a primary and alternate helper in even-numbered years and a primary helper in odd-numbered years. A helper tryout is presided over by the two Judges for the event and participation in the tryout is restricted to ONLY the primary helpers from each organization per the helper selection process agreed to between USCA and GSDCA. Per the USCA Helper Program, the USCA Helper Committee solicited helpers to provide the required information to be considered for pre-selection as USCA’s primary helper for the 2012 USCA-GSDCA WUSV Team Qualification Trial. Six (6) helpers submitted their qualifications for review by the Helper Committee. The Helper Committee then contacted each helper to determine their availability the weekend of June 8-10, 2012, since the date was undetermined at the time they submitted their qualifications. After the availability determination, the Helper Committee reviewed the qualifications of the available helpers and recommends Don Yelle to be USCA’s Primary Helper at the USCA-GSDCA WUSV Team Qualification Trial.

Yes – (17) – P-Lyle Roetemeyer, VP-Craig Groh, T-Sean O’Kane, NBW-Tim Burke, DAL-Jim Alloway, DAL-Johannes Grewe, DAL-Al Govednik, DAL-Dennis Vander Linde, RD-Jennifer Acevedo, RD-Mark Hamilton, RD-Scott Hedger, RD-Pedro Jimenez, RD-Vicki Keller, RD-Dena McGowan, RD-Kevin Nance, RD-Gail Kendall, RD-Mark Scarberry, RD-Pia Blackwell
No – (0)
Abstain – (1) – Craig Groh
No Response -(1) – DOJ-Nathaniel Roque

Motion carried 05/11/2012

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

Yes – (18) – P-Lyle Roetemeyer, VP-Craig Groh, T-Sean O’Kane, DOJ-Nathaniel Roque, NBW-Tim Burke, DAL-Jim Alloway, DAL-Al Govednik, DAL-Dennis Vander Linde, RD-Jennifer Acevedo, RD-Mark Hamilton, RD-Scott Hedger, RD-Pedro Jimenez, RD-Vicki Keller, RD-Dena McGowan, RD-Kevin Nance, RD-Gail Kendall, RD-Mark Scarberry, RD-Don Yelle
No – (0)
Abstain – (0)
No Response -(1) – DAL-Johannes Grewe

Motion carried 05/10/2012

BOI Case: Mark Chase v. Quinebaug Schutzhund Club
E-Ballot #3-12

Motion by Craig Groh, seconded by Sean O’Kane, to accept the determination and recommendation of the Board of Inquiry in the case of Mark Chase v. Quinebaug Schutzhund Club. Also, the appeals of the BOI determination in this case submitted by the accuser and accused have been unanimously denied by the Directors at Large.

Charges

Charge #1: Trial Violation of Quinebaug Schutzhund Club – Sustained.

Charge #2: Inhumane Treatment of Animals at Quinebaug Schutzhund Club – Not sustained

CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS

  1. That Quinebaug Schutzhund Club be reprimanded for the trial violation in Charge #1.
  2. That Charge #2 is deemed to be an intra-club dispute.
  3. That the USCA Director of Judges issue a statement clarifying the use of correction devices at USCA-sanctioned events and also the clarifying the official start and end of a USCA-sanctioned event.
  4. Although the charge of inhumane treatment is not sustained, the BOI recommends a discussion on the subject at either the 2012 General Board meeting or at each regional meeting in 2012 to address the issue of humane training methods for our working dogs. USCA bylaws specifically state that one of the objectives of the organization is to promote humane training methods for the working dog, and some open dialogue on the subject would benefit the organization.

Accept – (8) – VP-Craig Groh, DoJ-Nathaniel Roque, DAL-Al Govednik, DAL-Johannes Grewe, RD-Mark Hamilton, RD-Scott Hedger, RD-Vicki Keller, RD-Kevin Nance
Reject – (5) T-Sean O’Kane, NBW-Tim Burke, RD-Pedro Jimenez, RD-Mark Scarberry, RD-Pia Blackwell
Abstain – (2) – RD-Dena McGowan, RD-Gail Kendall
No Response -(1) – (RD-Jennifer Acevedo

Motion carried May 21, 2012. (Per Parliamentarian Ruling.)

Remarks: Dena McGowan — It is not in me to go against the BOI, but I could never open the attachment for further info, and without that information, do not feel I have all the facts to give an educated vote. I, also, feel that if a USCA judge allowed alledged events to occur, that he/she should have said something at the time.

Remarks: Tim Burke — I have a comment which is related to this BOI case but not necessarily applicable to the outcome. I believe from talking to most members that they are under the impression that corrective devices are allowed for “practice” (and yes, they are allowed). I have witnessed several times (enough for it to be considered less than a rare occurrence) judges taking a break between the obedience and protection phases and allowing some limited “practice”, especially for trial participants that have not been on that particular field before (like out of area trial participants). It seems to me that there is obvious confusion for our members between no corrective devices allowed once the event officially begins and a judge declaring “practice time”. We have conditioned our membership to accept judges as the final authority for all things at an event. This really needs clarified and communicated to our membership.

Remarks: Dennis Vander Linde — It was a difficult decision for me to vote against the BOI’s determination for Charge #1. I did so for the following reasons.

  1. Practice at a USA event is allowed with corrective devices. GBM – OTHER NEW BUSINESS, Item 6. Training Devices at USA Events Motion by Mark Przybylski that all training collars (i.e, electronic collars, prong collars, etc.), when used humanely, will be permitted at all USA events during practice sessions. At USA national events a committee shall be named to monitor practice sessions. At least two individuals from the committee shall be present for all practice sessions. All USA officers (Executive Board) and USA judges will also be part of enforcing the policy when present and witness to an incident. Motion carried unanimously.
  2. Quinebaug Schutzhund Club consulted the event judge, head judge of Austria SV-Guenther Muellegger, and confirmed it was permissible to allow practice, including the use of corrective devices, between the obedience and protection phases on Friday. We have conditioned our membership to accept judges as the final authority for all things at an event. I do not think that we should undermine a judge’s authority as this will set a bad precedent for our membership that judges are not the final authority.
  3. .In the EB’s discussion on E-Ballot #3-12, several EB members have stated that they personally have witnessed several times (enough for it to be considered less than a rare occurrence) judges taking a break between the obedience and protection phases and allowing some limited “practice”, especially for trial participants that have not been on that particular field before or worked on the trial helper before (like out of area trial participants). It seems to me that there is obvious confusion for our members between no corrective devices allowed once the event officially begins and a judge declaring “practice time”. Our trial rules need to be clarified in this area. The modification I propose to the BOI’s determination for Charge #1 is that the charge be “not sustained” and that our trial rules be clarified as requested above.

 

 

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.

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.

For PPP – (18) – Lyle Roetemeyer, VP-Craig Groh, T-Sean O’Kane, DoJ-Nathaniel Roque, NBW-Tim Burke, DAL-Jim Alloway, DAL-Al Govednik, DAL-Johannes Grewe, DAL-Dennis Vander Linde, RD-Jennifer Acevedo, RD-Mark Hamilton, RD-Scott Hedger, RD-Pedro Jimenez, RD-Dena McGowan, RD-Kevin Nance, RD-Gail Kendall, RD-Mark Scarberry, RD-Don Yell
For Custom Graphics Concepts – (1) RD-Vicki Keller)
Bid is awarded to PPP, 04/21/2012

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:

Yes – (16) – Lyle Roetemeyer, Craig Groh, Sean O’Kane, Nathaniel Roque, Tim Burke, , Al Govednik, Johannes Grewe, Dennis Vander Linde, Scott Hedger, Mark Scarberry, Don Yelle, Jennifer Acevedo, Pedro Jimenez, Mark Hamilton, Dena McGowan, Thomas Payne
No – (0)
Abstain – (1) – Jim Alloway
No Response -(2) – Kevin Nance, Vicki Keller

Motion carried 02/22/201