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ACA UPDATE EDITOR
COMMITTEE OBJECTIVES AND GOALS
To receive a variety of information from various sources and compile it into a monthly correspondence newsletter in a timely fashion. To use creative talents to ensure that information is presented clearly.
DESCRIPTION OF COMMITTEE RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Receive necessary information from the Recording Secretary.
2. Layout information into newsletter format.
3. Provide finished product, along with proper mailing list, to printers.
4. Convert newsletter to Adobe Format and provide to ACA list on website.
5. Produce a variety of special mailings each year related to ACA nationals.
SPECIAL SKILLS/REQUIREMENTS
1. Strong computer skills in publishing software.
2. Ability to work with multiple parties.
3. Ability to collect and compile information quickly and efficiently.
4. Work with printing company to ensure proper finished product.
5. Manage time effectively so that Update is received in a timely fashion.
SPECIFIC TASKS/PROJECTS OF INDIVIDUAL COMMITTEE MEMBERS
When the Update Editor seems fairly easy, it is never without its issues. Whomever assumes this responsibility needs to have a great deal of flexibility and patience. Simply putting the information together is not difficult, but the person responsible needs to be able to work well with board members, be well organized and act as an effective team member.
This person should be able to effortlessly handle last minute requests, delays and changes. This person should expect that timeliness may often not be met and should be able to respond accordingly and have the time available to devote the proper amount of attention to this project.
AKC GAZETTE COLUMNIST
COMMITTEE OBJECTIVES AND GOALS
To present the Akita via written venue to the worldwide canine community, both competitive and companion based.
DESCRIPTION OF COMMITTEE RESPONSIBILITIES
Submit four columns per year according to AKC guidelines.
SPECIAL SKILLS/REQUIREMENTS
This position requires excellent verbal and written communication skills. The position requires a fairly computer literate person as columns sent in a word processing format are preferable to AKC. This position also requires that the writer strictly adhere to deadlines.
The person who holds this position should understand that a variety of columns, from “stories” to more serious issues are required by AKC. The individual should also understand that AKC can and will edit “at will” without consultation with the writer. It should also be understood that issues discussed can and will be read by the entire fancy and therefore should be considered carefully. The AKC issues several pages of guidelines and expectations and these are to be strictly followed.
BREEDERS EDUCATION COMMITTEE
COMMITTEE OBJECTIVES AND GOALS
To attempt to assist and educate all persons wanting information on breeding Akitas.
DESCRIPTION OF COMMITTEE RESPONSIBILITIES
1. To inform those wanting more information on breeding dogs by mentoring, and through books, articles, videos, etc.
2. The committee will put on at least one seminar of general interest each year at the national specialty.
SPECIAL SKILLS/REQUIREMENTS
Members of the committee are held to the highest standards. Members must hold the same qualification as becoming an AKC judge, ie., 12 years in the breed, 5 litters, 4 Champions of Record. In addition, they will themselves have good contracts for puppy placement and stud services, ALWAYS be responsible for anything they have bred and do all health testing on their own breeding stock. New members must be approved by all current members on the committee.
SPECIFIC TASKS/PROJECTS OF INDIVIDUAL COMMITTEE MEMBERS
Specific tasks are assigned on an individual basis by the chairperson.
ADDITIONAL
The Mentor Program has floundered since its inception, however, the program can be invaluable once revived. Expectations of the Mentor Program are:
2-3 mentors in each area. Prerequisites used are similar to requirements to apply to judge the breed, including years in the breed, number of litters, and numbers of champions. A mentor is a person willing to share their expertise with other Akita owners, especially newcomers to the breed.
BREEDERS REFERRAL COMMITTEE
COMMITTEE OBJECTIVES AND GOALS
To help people find a good breeder of Akitas.
DESCRIPTION OF COMMITTEE RESPONSIBILITIES
Answer e-mails and phone calls from people looking for an Akita and match them up with whoever is listed as breeders in their area. If there are none in their area, reference is made to the ones closest to them. The committee also keeps track of what breeders are listed. The committee sends out notices when payment is due and sends updates to the ACA website. General questions about Akitas, as to health, temperament, what to look for in a breeder are answered or refer them to a person who can. Recently calls have been received from people who have had problems with their Akitas, or who have bought from puppy mill types and want to know what they can do about it.
SPECIAL SKILLS/REQUIREMENTS
A good knowledge about the Akita is needed as many hours are spent on the computer and telephone answering questions and helping people find a breeder.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
More members are needed to sign up for the listing. The price is low. Many areas of the country have no breeders listed. Most pet people do not want to have a pup shipped to them. The Midwest is sorely lacking in breeders. There are none listed in Iowa, Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska and only one in Illinois. Many of the areas of greatest puppy mill availability have no breeders the committee can refer to. There are members in those areas, but since they are not listed they cannot be referred. Breeder participation is what is most needed for success of the committee.
CHALLENGE TROPHY COMMITTEE
COMMITTEE OBJECTIVES AND GOALS
The Challenge Trophy Committee interfaces with the show committee and the committee chairperson is considered part of the national show committee. This is a very time intensive job during the national.
DESCRIPTION OF COMMITTEE RESPONSIBILITIES
1) Keep a list of all donated challenge trophies – old and new. Be familiarized with the Challenge Trophy Donation Guidelines and with all the conditions for retirement specified when they were donated. AKC does not allow clubs to accept a perpetual trophy, one that cannot be won. Almost without exception trophies can be retired after the same person wins it three times, not necessarily with the same dog.
2) Maintain a storage place for the trophies when they are not at the National – either at one of the committee members’ homes or at a nearby storage facility. ACA covers the cost of storing the trophies.
3) At least two weeks before the National, the trophies should be inventoried, polished, properly packaged, and shipped to the national location if they cannot be transported to the national. ACA covers the cost of packing and shipping. (No personal expenses will be covered). Be sure to make a master list of all boxes and contents and have the shipper sign for it so we have proof of exactly which trophies were shipped. Be sure to do the same when shipping them home. Shipping arrangements should be made and coordinated with the Show Chair, the current Treasurer, and with the site coordinator, as some hotels will not accept the trophies too far in advance. Also, if they are to be shipped home rather than transported, have the site coordinator check with the hotel regarding return shipment, if necessary, as some hotels will hold the trophies for pick up; others will not. In the latter case, you will have to make some alternative arrangements for pickup.
4) The club no longer sends the actual Challenge Trophy home with the winner because of past damage, and the difficulty of tracking and getting them returned to the national in a timely fashion. A commemorative award, such as a plaque or trophy, is presented along with the trophy in the ring and that is taken home in lieu of the trophy. Currently we are using plaques which can be ordered for two shows in advance. Each year all the challenge trophies, their descriptions, donors and requirements for retirement must be listed in the premium list and on display at the national. The judge presents each to the appropriate winner and they are used for the show photography, after which, they are returned to the storage location at the national. The commemorative award is purchased by the ACA, but the winner is responsible for having it engraved. We have a few odd trophies that are available for win but which are not given in the ring because they don’t go to the dogs. This is clearer when you see the list.
5) The committee is responsible for the Challenge Trophies at the national, so the chairperson or committee members should plan on attending the national. The Show Trophy Chair is responsible for the Trophy Table and this committee should take care to interface with and assist that committee, but responsibility for the security of the Challenge Trophies and for their presence ringside rests with the Challenge Trophy Committee. Prepare a master list with each event and which trophies are to be present at it and make sure the trophy and the corresponding commemorative plaque are taken ringside and returned to storage at the end of judging. The trophies available for the day should be displayed at the appropriate venue and then kept under lock and key at night. The Site Coordinator will arrange a locked room for storage.
6) All Challenge Trophies must be taken to the Awards Banquet where they are on display during dinner. The Challenge Trophy chair assists the Show Chair or the President in announcing the winners and displaying the appropriate trophy. He is also responsible for compiling the list of winners or seeing that it is done before the dinner and provided to the speakers.
7) After the dinner, the Challenge Trophy Committee is responsible for repacking the trophies and preparing them for shipment or return. Repacking after the dinner takes about an hour to two depending on how many people are helping. Five people could easily be used. It helps to have photos or written description of trophies with the boxes so they can be matched up easily. A lot of package sealing tape and extra peanuts or padding material is needed (duct tape will not work and is not acceptable to shipping companies).
8) After the National, the committee is responsible for engraving all trophies with the name of the winner and the year. ACA will cover the expense.
9) Well before the national, each trophy should be inspected for any required maintenance. If the trophy or the shipping case is in bad condition, there are two courses of action.
A) Trophies donated before 2003 do not fall under the new donation guidelines which require that the donor establish a maintenance fund. Therefore, contact the donor to inform them of the condition of the trophy and ask them whether they would like to fund the necessary repairs to their donation or retire it.
B) For trophies donated after 2003, contact the Treasurer with the repair estimate and make arrangements for repair.
CHALLENGE TROPHY GUIDELINES (MAY 2003) (LAST UPDATE – 11/09/2004)
a. The donation should be made by an ACA member in good standing or in memory of a deceased ACA member who was in good standing.
b. The trophy can only be offered as a memorial.
c. Trophies must be individually approved by the board. In the event of unusual requests or extenuating circumstances, the board retains the right to grant special approval beyond circumstances described by these guidelines.
d. Donated trophies must be made of a durable material.
e. No trophy will be accepted if it would not pass airline baggage regulations.
f. The trophy shall remain in the possession of the Challenge Trophy Committee or designated ACA representative until it is retired or permanently won as specified by the terms of the donor.
g. A certificate or plaque with the club logo and the winner’s class and date will be offered as a trophy replacement for the yearly winners to keep. The owner will be responsible for having the dog’s name inscribed on this if they so choose.
h. In addition to the trophy, the donor will contribute a custom made hard plastic or Styrofoam packing insulator, and a shipping/storage crate for the trophy.
i. The donor will also contribute $150 into an established trust fund for the ongoing care of the trophy. This cost will be used to help cover maintenance of the trophy, cost of the yearly trophy replacement, and engraving the names of the winners each year on the trophy until the trophy is permanently won.
j. The donors of the existing trophies will be given the option to bring their trophy up to date, and to follow these recommended guidelines. If past trophies are damaged past a reasonable point of repair, the CTC, at the approval of the board, has the right to remove them until sufficient corrections are made.
FUTURITY / MATURITY COMMITTEE
COMMITTEE OBJECTIVES AND GOALS
The Futurity and Maturity Stakes offer breeders and owners a special
opportunity to showcase their youngsters at two consecutive ACA National Specialties. These puppies and young adults represent not only
the best efforts of ACA breeders but also the future of the Akita in
this hemisphere. Since the futurity competition was inaugurated in 1989, many of its winners have gone on to become Top Ten Akitas and
outstanding producers of new generations. In nominating a litter for
the Futurity, ACA members are casting votes of confidence in their breeding decisions and indicating their commitment to improving the
quality of our dogs. The Futurity and Maturity Stakes seek to encourage
highly selective breeding practices and to reward breeders for their
achievements. Recognition is also given to the owners for developing
the Akita's potential and to the sire for his genetic contributions.
DESCRIPTION OF COMMITTEE RESPONSIBILITIES
1. The committee receives and processes litter and individual puppy nominations for the Futurity and Maturity Stakes. The committee sends
puppy nomination forms to those who nominate litters and records breeders' votes for candidates to judge the Futurity and Maturity
Stakes two years hence.
2. Once a month, the committee sends the checks that have been collected and the current statistics to the ACA Treasurer. These
figures include the number of litters and puppies nominated along with the tallies of money collected for ACA expenses,Akita Rescue, and
Stakes prizes.
3. Prior to each national specialty, the committee works with the show superintendent to insure the eligibility of those entered in the
Futurity and Maturity Stakes. The committee also prepares a breakdown of the division of that year's prize money to be awarded to the
breeders, puppy owners, and sire owners of the various winners.
SPECIAL SKILLS/REQUIREMENTS
Because ACA members can now nominate litters and individuals on the ACA website, the committee requires access to the internet as online
nominations and confirmation of payment are sent to the committee via email.
Futurity Stakes Rules (revised 4/05)
The Futurity and Maturity Stakes offer breeders and owners a special opportunity to showcase their youngsters at two consecutive ACA National Specialties. These puppies and young adults represent not only the best efforts of ACA breeders but also the future of the Akita. Since the Futurity competition was inaugurated in 1989, many of its winners have gone on to become Top Ten Akitas and outstanding producers of new generations. In nominating a litter for the Futurity, ACA members are casting votes of confidence in their breeding decisions and indicating their commitment to improving the quality of our dogs. The Futurity and Maturity Stakes seek to encourage highly selective breeding practices and to reward breeders for their achievements. Recognition is also given to the owners for developing the inherited potential and to the sire for his genetic contributions.
I. Purpose
To encourage the breeding of the best possible AKITA and to reward breeders for their efforts.
II. General
A. The Futurity Stake, held in conjunction with the National Specialty, is entered by nominating a LITTER. Individual puppies from a nominating litter are then eligible to compete in the FIRST annual Futurity held on or after the date they reach six months of age, and ONLY in this stake.
B. Correct and timely nominations of both the litter and the individual puppy are required for stake eligibility.
C. Prize moneys can only be won through competition in stake judging.
D. Nomination forms may be obtained from the Futurity Committee or at the ACA website http://www.akitaclub.org/web/forms/futurity_online.html and will be printed periodically in the ACA newsletter.
III. Nomination of a Litter
A. Must be made by the breeder or co-breeder, one of whom is a member of the AKITA CLUB OF AMERICA at the time of both nomination and birth of the litter.
B. To avoid penalty, must be after the breeding has occurred but BEFORE the puppies are whelped. Postmark on envelope or date of Paypal transaction establishes date of nomination.
C. Fee is $20.00. A Futurity Nomination is final and no refunds will be made. Nomination fees are not transferable from one litter to another, nor from one AKITA to another.
D. Nomination of litter makes each puppy in that litter eligible for individual nomination and entry into the Futurity competition.
E. Will be made on an official ACA Futurity Nomination Form and mailed to the Futurity Committee or sent via the ACA website. The Futurity Litter Nomination entry form requires the following information:
Dam’s Name and AKC registration number
Name and address of Dam’s owner or lessee
Sire’s Name and AKC registration number
Name and address of Sire’s owner (at the time of litter nomination)
Estimated date of whelping
F. Upon receipt of a litter nomination, the Futurity Committee will send the breeder five puppy nomination forms.
G. Litter nominations made after the whelping will be accepted. Cost of late entry is litter nomination fee plus penalty of $40.00, which will be donated to help support rescued Akitas.
IV. Nomination of the Puppy
A. Must be made by the owner of the puppy, who need not be an ACA member.
B. To avoid penalty, must be made BEFORE the puppy reaches four months of age. Postmark on envelope or date of Paypal transaction establishes date of nomination.
C. Fee is $10.00. There will be no refunds.
D. Will be made on an official ACA Futurity Re-nomination Form and mailed to the Futurity Committee or sent via the ACA website. The Individual Puppy Re-nomination entry form will require the following information:
Dam’s name and AKC registration number.
Name and address of owner of puppy
Puppy’s sex and litter registration number (if the litter registration number has not been received by the owner at the time individual re-nominations are made, this information must be forwarded to the Futurity Committee upon receipt).
E. Any changes in the identifying information to be included in the Futurity of the ACA Specialty Club catalogue from that previously provided must be received by the Futurity Committee by the date of the Specialty closing. Failure to provide such information will result in ineligibility to compete.
F. Puppy nominations made after the age of four months will be accepted. Cost of late entry is puppy nomination fee plus penalty of $40.00, which will be donated to help support rescued Akitas.
V. Entry for Stake Judging
A. Must be entered in one of the regular classes, either confrontation, obedience, agility, or rally, at the ACA National Specialty. Fee for this entry must be paid.
B. Futurity Stakes entry must be indicated as an additional class on the official AKC entry form. There is a $10.00 fee for this additional class.
C. Additional class entry must include age division. Individual puppies from a nominated litter are eligible to compete in the FIRST annual Futurity held on or after the date they reach six months of age, and ONLY in this Stake.
VI. Class Divisions
Stake is divided into four age groups: 6-9; 9-12; 12-15; 15 months and over. Each age division is further divided by sex.
VII. Sequence of Judging
A. The four male classes will be judged in order, followed by the female classes. The Judge will make four placements for each class.
B. The Judge will next select Best Futurity Puppy and Best Opposite Futurity Puppy from the four winners of the 6-9 and 9-12 month classes.
C. Best Futurity Junior and Best of Opposite Futurity Junior are selected from the four winners of the 12-15 and 15 months & over classes.
D. The Best Futurity Puppy and the Best Futurity Junior then compete for GRAND FUTURITY WINNER, followed by the two Best Opposite Winners, who compete for Best of Opposite to the Grand Futurity Winner.
VIII. Division of Total Futurity Stakes Moneys
A. General
1. Expenses of the Futurity will be deducted (not to exceed 35%) prior to disbursement of the stakes moneys.
2. The stakes prize moneys will be divided among the Breeder (50%), Owner (35%), and Owner of Sire at the time of Nomination of Litter (15%).
3. Prizes will be distributed by the AKITA CLUB OF AMERICA Treasurer after the Futurity expenses are compiled and deducted from the stake.
B. Division of the Individual Stake Moneys (divided as specified above).
1. Grand Futurity Winner receives 20% of the Stake Prize Money. Best Opposite to the Grand Futurity Winner receives 10%.
2. Best Futurity Puppy and Best Futurity Junior will each receive 10% and Best Opposite Winners 5%.
3. The Winner of each age division will receive 5%.
IX. Trophies and Ribbons
A. A Rosette will be offered by the AKITA CLUB OF AMERICA for the Best Futurity Puppy, Best Futurity Junior and Grand Futurity Winner, from the Futurity operating expense fund.
B. Ribbons will be awarded for each placement from the operating expense fund.
C. Other Rosettes and Trophies may be offered at the discretion of the National Specialty Bench Show Committee.
X. Selection and Eligibility of Futurity/Maturity Judges
A. Members nominating litters may list three names for a Futurity/Maturity judge to serve at the National Specialty two years hence. Only the names indicated on the first litter nomination a breeder submits for a given Futurity will be counted.
B. The Judge, or any member of his or her family, cannot be the owner, co-owner, breeder, or co-breeder of any nominated puppy or its sire or dam entered in the Futurity in which he or she judges.
C. A Judge cannot judge a Futurity and Maturity more than once every three years.
D. An individual must be a member in good standing of the ACA and satisfy the 12/5/4 rule (12 years in the Akita breed, five litters bred, four champion Akitas bred) to be eligible to judge the Futurity and Maturity Stakes.
Following are proposed revisions to the Futurity Maturity Procedures, which if approved by the Board, would go into effect on April 10, in order to be activated for the 2007 National & beyond. Please contact your Region Rep, a Director at Large or any other Board member as soon as possible if you have comments or concerns about the proposed changes.
A brief synopsis of the pertinent changes is stated below:
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Nomination of a Litter
Fee is $30.00. Of the litter nomination fees, $10 will go to cover ACA expenses and $20 to Futurity prize money. Nomination of a litter makes each puppy in that litter eligible for individual nomination and entry into both the Futurity Stakes and following years Maturity Stakes.
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Nomination of a Puppy
Fee is $20.00. Puppies nominated for the Futurity are also automatically nominated for the
Maturity Stakes one year hence. Of the puppy nomination fees, $3 will go to cover ACA expenses, $10 to Futurity prize money, & $7 to the next year Maturity prize money.
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Late fees for both, continue at $40, which goes to Rescue.
Futurity/Maturity Rules
The Futurity and Maturity Stakes offer breeders and owners a special opportunity to showcase their youngsters at two consecutive ACA National Specialties. These puppies and young adults represent not only the best efforts of ACA breeders but also the future of the Akita.
Since the Futurity competition was inaugurated in 1989, many of its winners have gone on to become Top Ten Akitas and outstanding producers of new generations. In nominating a litter for the Futurity, ACA members are casting votes of confidence in their breeding decisions and indicating their commitment to improving the quality of our dogs. The Futurity and Maturity Stakes seek to encourage highly selective breeding practices and to reward breeders for their achievements. Recognition is also given to the owners for developing the Akita’s inherited potential and to the sire for his genetic contributions. The Maturity Stake not only provides Futurity-nominated puppies with an additional opportunity to compete, but also gives those unable to participate in a Futurity the chance to compete during the next National Specialty.
Proposed Futurity Stake Rules
I. Purpose
To encourage the breeding of the best possible AKITA and to reward all involved for their efforts: the breeder and the owners of the puppy and the sire.
II. General
A. The Futurity Stake, held in conjunction with the National Specialty, is entered by nominating a LITTER. Individual puppies from a nominated litter are then eligible to compete in the FIRST Futurity held on or after the date they reach six months of age and the next years Maturity, and ONLY in those stakes.
B. Correct and timely nominations of both the litter and the individual puppy are required for stake eligibility.
C. Nomination forms may be obtained from the Futurity Committee or at the ACA website
http://www.akitaclub.org/web/forms/forms.html and will be printed periodically in the ACA Update.
III. Nomination of a litter
A. Must be made by the breeder or co-breeder, one of whom has been a member of the AKITA
CLUB OF AMERICA for six months prior to the birth of the litter.
B. To avoid penalty, must be after the breeding has occurred but BEFORE the puppies are whelped. Postmark on envelope or date of PayPal transaction establishes date of nomination.
C. Fee is $30.00. Of the litter nomination fees, $10 will go to cover ACA expenses and $20 to Futurity prize money. A Futurity nomination is final and no refunds will be made. Nomination fees cannot be transferred from one litter to another or from one Akita to another.
D. Nomination of a litter makes each puppy in that litter eligible for individual nomination and entry into both the Futurity Stake and following year’s Maturity Stake.
E. Upon receipt of a litter nomination, the Futurity Committee will send the nominator five puppy nomination forms.
F. Litter nominations will be accepted until four months after the whelping date, with postmark or date of PayPal transaction determining eligibility. Cost of late entry is litter nomination fee plus penalty fee of $40.00. This late fee will be designated to help support rescued Akitas.
IV. Nomination of the Puppy
A. Must be made by the breeder, owner, or co-owner of the puppy. Owners need not be ACA members.
B. To avoid penalty, must be made before the puppy reaches four months of age. Postmark on envelope or date of PayPal transaction establishes date of nomination.
C. Fee is $20.00. Puppies nominated for the Futurity are also automatically nominated for the Maturity Stakes one year hence. Of the puppy nomination fees, $3.00 will go to cover ACA expenses, $10.00 to Futurity prize money, and $7.00 to the next year’s Maturity prize money. A Futurity/Maturity nomination is final and no refunds will be made. Nomination fees cannot be transferred from one litter to another or from one Akita to another.
D. Any changes in the identifying information to appear in the ACA National Specialty catalog from that previously provided must be received by the Futurity Committee by the date entries close for the National Specialty. Failure to provide such information will result in ineligibility to compete.
E. Puppy nominations will be accepted until the puppy reaches seven months of age, with postmark or date of PayPal transaction determining eligibility. Cost of late entry is puppy nomination fee plus penalty fee of $40.00. This late fee will be designated to help support rescued Akitas.
V. Entry for Stake Judging
A. Must be entered in one of the regular classes: conformation, obedience, agility, or rally at the ACA National Specialty Show.
B. Futurity Stake entry must be indicated as an additional class on the official AKC entry form. There is a $10.00 fee for this additional class.
C. Additional class entry must include age division. Individual puppies from a nominated litter are eligible to compete in the FIRST annual Futurity held on or after the date they reach six months of age, and ONLY in this Stake.
VI. Class Divisions
Stake is divided into four age groups: 6-9 months; 9-12 months; 12-15 months; 15 months and over. Each age division is further divided by sex.
VII. Sequence of Judging
A. The four dog classes will be judged in order, followed by the bitch classes. The Judge will make four placements for each class.
B. The Judge will select Best Futurity Puppy first, followed by Best Opposite Futurity Puppy, from the four winners of the 6-9 and 9-12 month classes.
C. Best Futurity Junior and Best of Opposite Futurity Junior are selected from the four winners of the12-15 and 15 months & over classes.
D. The Best Futurity Puppy and the Best Futurity Junior then compete for GRAND FUTURITY
WINNER, followed by the two Best Opposite Winners, who compete for Best of Opposite to the Grand Futurity Winner.
VIII. Division of Total Futurity Stakes Monies
A. General
1. Expenses of the Futurity will be deducted (not to exceed 35%) prior to disbursement of the stake monies.
2. The stakes prize monies will be divided among the Breeder (50%), Owner (35%), and
Owner of Sire at the time of Nomination of Litter (15%).
3. Prizes will be distributed by the AKITA CLUB OF AMERICA.
B. Division of the Individual Stake Monies (divided as specified above)
1. Grand Futurity Winner receives 20% of the Stake Prize Money. Best Opposite to the Grand
Futurity Winner receives 10%.
2. Best Futurity Puppy and Best Futurity Junior will each receive 10%, Best Opposite Winners
5%.
3. The Winner of each age division will receive 5%.
IX. Trophies and Ribbons
A. A Rosette will be offered by the AKITA CLUB OF AMERICA for the Best Futurity Puppy, Best
Futurity Junior, and Grand Futurity Winner.
B. Ribbons will be awarded for each placement.
C. Other Rosettes and Trophies may be offered at the discretion of the National Specialty Show Committee.
X. Selection & Eligibility of Futurity/Maturity Judges
A. Members nominating litters may list three names for a Futurity/Maturity judge to serve at the National Specialty two years hence. Only the names indicated on the first litter nomination a breeder submits for a given Futurity will be counted.
B. The Judge, or any member of his or her family, cannot be the owner, co-owner, breeder, or co-breeder of any nominated puppy or its sire or dam entered in the Futurity in which he or she judges.
C. A Judge cannot judge a Futurity and Maturity more than once every three years.
D. An individual must be a member in good standing of the ACA and satisfy the 12/5/4 rule (12 years in the Akita breed, five litters bred, four champion Akitas bred) to be eligible to judge the Futurity and Maturity Stakes.
Maturity Stakes Rules (revised 4/05)
I. Purpose
Like the Futurity, the Maturity Stakes are intended to encourage the breeding of the best possible AKITA and to reward breeders for their efforts. Recognition is also given to both the owners in whose hands lie the responsibility of developing the inherited potentialities and the sire for his genetic contributions. The Maturity Stakes not only provides Futurity-nominated puppies with an additional opportunity but also gives those unable to participate in the Futurity a chance to compete during the next Specialty Stakes.
II. General
The Maturity Stakes will be held in conjunction with the National Specialty. A dog nominated for a Futurity becomes eligible for the Maturity through a second nomination. This re-nomination must be received by the Futurity Committee by the date entries close for the National Specialty.
A. Correct and timely nominations of the litter, the individual puppy nomination, and the Maturity re-nomination are required for stake eligibility.
B. Entry or participation in the Futurity Stakes is not required for Maturity eligibility.
C. Prize moneys can only be won through competition in stake judging.
D. Nomination forms may be obtained from the Futurity Committee or at the ACA website http://www.akitaclub.org/web/forms/maturity_online.html and will be published periodically in the ACA update.
III. Maturity Nomination
A. Must be made by the owner of the dog, who need not be an ACA member.
B. Must be received by the 30th day preceding the judging of the Maturity Stakes.
C. Fee is $20.00. There will be no refunds.
D. Will be made on a Maturity Nomination Form and mailed to the Futurity Committee or sent via the ACA website: http://www.akitaclube.org/web/forms/maturity_online.html.
E. Any changes in the identifying information (AKC#, ownership, etc.) to appear in the ACA Specialty catalogue must be received by the Futurity Committee by the date the Specialty closes.
IV. Entry for Stake Judging
A. Must be entered in one of the regular classes, either conformation, obedience, or agility, at the ACA National Specialty Show and Obedience Trial. Fee for this entry must be paid.
B. Maturity Stakes entry must be indicated as an additional class on the official AKC entry form. There is a $10.00 fee for this additional class.
C. Additional class entry must include age division. Dogs are eligible to compete only in the first Maturity Stake held following the Futurity Stake for which they were nominated.
V. Class Divisions
A. Stake is divided into two age divisions: under 24 months and over 24 months.
B. Each age division is further divided by sex.
VI. Sequence of Judging
A. The Judge will judge Males first, then Females, making four placements for each class.
B. The Judge will select Best Maturity Junior and Best Opposite Maturity Junior from the winners of the under 24 month classes.
C. The Judge will select Best Maturity Senior and Best Opposite Maturity Senior from the winners of the over 24 month classes.
D. Best Maturity Junior and Best Maturity Senior will compete for GRAND MATURITY WINNER followed by the two Opposite winners, who compete for Best Opposite Grand Maturity Winner.
VII. Division of Total Maturity Stakes Moneys
A. General
1. The stakes prize moneys will be divided among the breeder (50%), Owner (35%), and Owner of Sire at the time of Nomination of Litter (15%).
2. Prizes will be distributed by the AKITA CLUB OF AMERICA Treasurer.
B. Division of the Individual Stake Moneys (divided as specified above).
1. Grand Maturity Winner receives 20% of the Stake Prize Money, Best Opposite to the Grand Maturity Winner receives 10%.
2. Best Maturity Junior and Best Maturity Senior each receive 15%, and Best Opposite Winners 10%.
3. The Winner of each class receives 5%.
VIII. Trophies and Ribbons
A. A Rosette will be offered by the AKITA CLUB OF AMERICA for the Grand Maturity Winner.
B. Ribbons will be awarded for each placement.
C. Other Rosettes and Trophies may be offered at the discretion of the National Specialty Bench Show Committee.
Proposed Maturity Stake Rules
I. Purpose
To encourage the breeding of the best possible AKITA and to reward all involved for their efforts: the breeder and the owners of the puppy and the sire.
II. General
A. The Maturity Stake will be held in conjunction with the ACA National Specialty. A puppy nominated for a Futurity is automatically nominated for the following year’s National Specialty Maturity Stake. Entry or participation in the Futurity Stake is not required for Maturity eligibility.
III. Entry for Stake Judging
A. Must be entered in one of the regular classes: conformation, obedience, agility, or rally at the ACA National Specialty Show.
B. Maturity Stake entry must be indicated as an additional class on the official AKC entry form.
There is a $10.00 fee for this additional class.
C. Additional class entry must include age division. Puppies are eligible to compete only in the first Maturity Stake held following the Futurity Stake for which they were nominated.
IV. Class Divisions
Stake is divided into two age divisions: under 24 months and over 24 months. Each age division is further divided by sex.
V. Sequence of Judging
A. The dog classes will be judged first, followed by the bitch classes. The Judge will make four placements for each class.
B. The Judge will select Best Maturity Junior first, followed by Best Opposite Maturity Junior, from the winners of the under 24 month classes.
C. The Judge will select Best Maturity Senior first, followed by Best Opposite Maturity Senior, from the winners of the over 24 month classes.
D. Best Maturity Junior and Best Maturity Senior will compete for GRAND MATURITY WINNER, followed by the two Best Opposite winners, who compete for Best Opposite Grand Maturity
Winner.
VI. Division of Total Maturity Stakes Monies
A. General
1. Expenses of the Maturity will be deducted (not to exceed 35%) prior to disbursement of the stake monies.
2. The prize monies will be divided among the Breeder (50%), Owner (35%), and Owner of
Sire at the time of Nomination of Litter (15%).
3. Prizes will be distributed by the AKITA CLUB OF AMERICA.
B. Division of the Individual Stake Monies (divided as specified above).
1. Grand Maturity Winner receives 20% of the Stake Prize Money. Best Opposite to the Grand Maturity Winner receives 10%.
2. Best Maturity Junior and Best Maturity Senior each receive 15%, Best Opposite Winners
10%.
3. The Winner of each class receives 5%.
VII. Trophies and Ribbons
A. A Rosette will be offered by the AKITA CLUB OF AMERICA for the Grand Maturity Winner.
B. Ribbons will be awarded for each placement. Other Rosettes and Trophies may be offered at the discretion of the National Specialty Show Committee.
GERIATRIC COMMITTEE
COMMITTEE OBJECTIVES AND GOALS
Research all avenues of geriatric care that pertains to Akitas and make available on the ACA website.
DESCRIPTION OF COMMITTEE RESPONSIBILITIES:
Solicit pertinent information from ACA members and other sources. Provide the Website Committee with the necessary material to make the information and/or articles of interest available on the ACA website. Maintain the ongoing list of Akitas over 11 years of age on the ACA website.
The website geriatric section is devoted to the care and understanding of senior Akitas. The website offers information on diseases, diet, comforting, aging signs and miscellaneous tips.
SPECIAL SKILLS/REQUIREMENTS
Computer and internet skills.
HEALTH AND GENETICS COMMITTEE
COMMITTEE OBJECTIVES AND GOALS
1. Encourage the growth of Akita related research projects in the field of veterinary medical research and molecular biology.
2. Organize a group of competent, motivated committee members to liaise with specific researchers already funded, pending funding and requesting Akita related samples.
3. Network with possible researchers into Akita health related projects and with other related breeds with similar health or genetic concerns as well as national grant funding organizations.
4. Encourage the education and free dissemination of non-confidential data from these projects to ACA membership, primarily, but also to non-members via internet sources and publications and conferences.
5. Attend Canine Health Foundation conference.
6. Encourage the archiving of relevant material to make the job easier for successors.
7. Address specific e-mails sent to the Genetics@akitaclub.org.
8. Groom a competent replacement.
9. Submit a quarterly report to the ACA Board covering the committee’s activities and actions during the previous quarter.
DESCRIPTION OF COMMITTEE RESPONSIBILITIES
1. First and foremost, the committee should be about education and dissemination of relevant, non confidential material regarding Akita health in general that will affect “management” practices and genetics that will affect breeding choices.
2. The committee is to seek out research and researchers to encourage them to pursue the aim of researching Akita health and genetics as far as possible via ongoing education of the veterinary medical research community.
3. The committee is to recommend certain action relevant to Akita health and genetics in regards to approval of grants as they are proposed to the CHF and to the ACA and to recommend a Canine Health Foundation Liaison to facilitate this purpose.
4. The committee is to oversee as best as possible ongoing ACA funded research by seeking periodic updates from researchers, solicit articles for dissemination to ACA members via the internet or other sources, and to encourage timely researcher response, as far as possible.
SPECIAL SKILLS/REQUIREMENTS
Relevant skills for a competent committee member: e-mail capability, some knowledge of statistical analysis methods, familiarity with concerns of the fanciers in regards to Akita health and genetics, familiar with general scientific protocols/processes, professional demeanor, motivated, positive attitude and self starting. Writing/teaching experience is a real plus.
SPECIFIC TASKS/PROJECTS OF INDIVIDUAL COMMITTEE MEMBERS
1. Liaison to researcher: committee member will write researcher a letter of introduction and solicit a direct response to the committee regarding research. Committee member will provide researcher with all necessary (as far as possible) exposure via e-mail lists, web site, etc., access to the ACA members to solicit samples and publish relevant documentation as requested by researcher. Liaison will be the default point person to provide researcher with hospitality arrangements if researcher should address the club national or other club sponsored event. The liaison will encourage researcher as much as possible to communicate difficulties as they arise so as to provide all necessary support from the club where possible. Keep the general committee informed of correspondence, progress and impending deadlines. Submit articles/correspondence to the committee in a timely fashion.
2. CHF Liaison: Primary contact for communication with Canine Health Foundation. Forward relevant material to the general committee for voting on recommendations for funding. Attend CHF conference. Reports to general committee.
3. OFA Liaison: Download and submit to the general committee OFA quarterly data for thyroid, patellas, hips and elbows. Reports sent to general committee.
4. Subweb-links: periodically update ACA-GHC links section. Work with Website committee and reports to entire committee.
5. Fund-raising: Point person for fund raising ideas and coordination for the committee. Work with Treasurer and reports to entire committee.
6. National: coordinate GHC presence (including any speaker arrangements) at the National. Work with Show Chairperson and reports to entire committee.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS:
This is a huge task, as large a task as the committee feels they can encompass. There is plenty of work for 15 people, but the group needs to be small enough to be cohesive and motivated. The biggest shortfall of the committee can easily be not communicating enough information to one another or not participating at the level required to stay on top of what is happening. We’ve had to form our own list to address this need. We require an engaged board liaison. The future of purebred dog research is here and will only pick up speed in the future. Networking is tremendously important, so it takes a finesse, an ability to politic a little in order to gain and build positive relationships with the right labs and researchers to get and keep the Akita at the forefront of what is being done, and that may mean traveling to where researchers are, reading all relevant information, and generally keep abreast of current thought. Future members will need to be conscious of the fact that the end goal is always to get relevant information into the hands of the ACA members as well as researchers.
HISTORIAN COMMITTEE
COMMITTEE OBJECTIVES AND GOALS
To solicit, collect and hold any and all items from a historical standpoint that would be of interest to persons involved in the Akita breed. Included in this might be marked catalogs from regional and independent specialties, photographs from nationals, and other memorabilia. Photographs from each national specialty should ultimately be sent to the Historian for safekeeping.
DESCRIPTION OF COMMITTEE RESPONSIBILITIES
To be the caretaker of any such Akita historical items donated.
SPECIAL SKILLS/REQUIREMENTS
No special skills are required but computer skills are helpful for keeping track of items. Organization skills are also helpful.
JUDGES EDUCATION COMMITTEE
(JEC)
COMMITTEE OBJECTIVES AND GOALS
The primary goal of the committee is the education of judges. This takes the form of on-going education for individuals who are already licensed to judge Akitas and education and mentoring for individuals who will be applying to judge Akitas.
DESCRIPTION OF COMMITTEE RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Presenting JEC seminars to interested groups.
2. Developing or assisting with the development of JEC materials.
3. Mentoring current and prospective Akita judges.
4. Participating in the presentation of the JEC national seminar.
5. Attending and/or participating in JEC meetings.
6. Developing or assisting with the development of JEC materials.
7. Assisting with the distribution of JEC materials.
8. Submit quarterly reports and an annual report to the ACA Board and membership.
9. Track committee expenditures.
SPECIAL SKILLS/REQUIREMENTS
At a minimum, individuals who serve on the JEC should possess the necessary qualifications to apply for and be approved as AKC licensed breed judges for Akitas. Beyond that, individuals should be considered based on their experience in the breed, their achievements in the breed and service to the Akita Club of America. Those who serve should feel comfortable presenting before both small and large groups. It is essential that JEC members be able to answer questions objectively and factually based upon the AKC Standard, experience and knowledge. They should have an intricate knowledge of the AKC approved Standard for the breed and have a good understanding of dog anatomy, structure and movement.
These desired qualification/skills are essential as these individuals present to judges who have been in their respective breeds for a number of years and are interested in learning about Akitas from individuals who are highly respected and considered to be very knowledgeable in the breed. The current committee composition is a balance between experienced breeders with more than 15 years in the breed and AKC licensed judges and veterinarians.
SPECIFIC TASKS/PROJECTS
The JEC has focused a great deal of attention on developing clear, informative and accurate materials to distribute to judges and seminar attendees. These materials have taken two forms: A JEC Manual and a Power Point presentation of slides that review the AKC Akita Standard. From time to time, the JEC reviews, revises and updates these materials and has consistently sought pictures of good breed representatives to incorporate into the presentation.
The second major focus and ultimate plan for the JEC is to develop an illustrated Standard for the breed. Unfortunately, due to circumstances beyond the control of the committee and the Board, this project has been postponed. However, the JEC hopes to be able to re-initiate this plan when circumstances improve and in the interim, plans to continue to refine existing materials and presentation modes.
When it is not feasible or possible for JEC members to personally present seminars, qualified designees have done so. In every instance, the JEC maintains that in order for the seminar to be a sanctioned “ACA (parent club) Seminar”, JEC materials must be used exclusively in the presentation. A guideline for “best practices” in delivering the seminar accompanies the materials. Additionally, the JEC Chair is available to speak to the seminar presenters as a resource to offer assistance.
JUDGES SELECTION COMMITTEE
COMMITTEE OBJECTIVES AND GOALS
Coordinates the judges selection and sweepstakes selection processes per the club approved procedure. Procedure is located on the club website.
DESCRIPTION OF COMMITTEE RESPONSIBILITIES
Complete the selection process two years minimum in advance of the national specialty.
SPECIAL SKILLS/RESPONSIBILITIES
Basic computer skills (Excel, Word, Internet). Must be organized and information mailed must be accurate and timely.
SPECIFIC TASKS/PROJECTS OF INDIVIDUAL COMMITTEE MEMBERS
Research current list of approved AKC Akita judges and identify those with provisional status, create/update all forms and documents, purchase supplies for mailings, print documents at copy center, prepare mailings, count results (first ballot), set-up CPA firm for counting final ballots, and notify Board of results with hard copy of results mailed from CPA firm to the ACA Corresponding Secretary.
The show site needs to be finalized by the ACA Site Coordinator and approved by the ACA Board prior to starting the selection process. The information is needed to identify show dates and location of the national for potential sweepstakes nominees.
ACA JUDGES SELECTION PROCEDURE
Eligibility of Judges
The initial ballot for National Specialty judges shall contain the names of all AKC licensed judges approved to judge Akitas on a regular basis.
Judges who are provisional or who have officiated at a National Specialty within the previous four years are ineligible.
Any judge accepting the assignment to judge at our National Specialty will agree not to judge Akitas at any AKC All Breed show in the US within six months, or any Akita Specialty show (AKC sponsored or independent) for ten months preceding the national. Evidence of such shall be submitted by the person making the nomination or the nominee or before the day nominations close.
Candidates for the position of National Sweepstakes Judge may be self nominated or nominated by ACA members. Each of the nominees must meet the current minimum prerequisites used by the AKC for an initial application to judge*.
Ballots
There shall be two mailings. The first contains the initial ballot for the national judges and nomination forms for sweepstakes judges, and the second mailing will contain two ballots, one for the national finalist and one for the sweepstakes finalists. The votes from the second mailing determine the judges for the National Specialty.
On the first ballot for national judges, the Akita breeder-judges will be voted by an asterisk in front of their names. For completeness, all judges that have judged a national within the last four years will also be listed in a separate section indicating the year they judged, but are not eligible to receive votes. The list of judges will be compiled using the latest AKC information that is available prior to December 31st of the preceding year (beginning with the 2003 selection) and the names shall be in alphabetical order. No votes shall be tabulated by ranking or weighting in any part of the procedure.
On the first ballot for national judges, each member can select up to ten judges. The second and final ballot for national judges will list the judges receiving the most votes. The ballot for sweepstakes shall contain the names of all eligible candidates. Each member can select three names on the final national ballot and three names for sweepstakes. Following the tabulation of the final ballot, the judges will be ranked according to the number of votes received.
Schedule
The balloting should occur annually and be completed at least 24 months in advance of the National. The first mailing will be sent out one month after the annual dues renewal, approximately February 1st. The first ballots must be returned on or before March 1st. The second mailing will be sent to the membership on March 15th and must be retuned on or before April 15th. The results will be submitted to the Board for publication. The Corresponding Secretary will then proceed to contact the judges selected to determine their availability.**
Process
Ballots will be sent to each ACA member and each member club in good standing. Accompanying the ballot will be printed information containing the complete procedure for the election of judges (this document). Mailings will follow the same procedures that are used for the election of officers to ensure accountability and integrity of the selection. The mailing envelope for all ballots shall contain the notice that ACA Ballots are enclosed.
The mailing for each ballot will contain a blank envelope into which the ballot is inserted, which is, in turn inserted into the larger envelope denoting it contains a ballot and a means of verifying. This larger envelope shall be addressed to the Coordinator of Judges Selection on the first ballot and to an independent agency approved by the board for the second. Each shall be marked with a return label of the ACA member for verification purposes.
Final ballots will be counted by an independent agency and the results will be reported to the Coordinator who will report them to the ACA Board. All proceedings are to be confidential. Any votes received that are not in accordance with these procedures are considered illegal and will not be counted.
National Judges
The judge with the most votes will be assigned Intersex judging, second most votes will be assigned Dogs, and third most will be assigned Bitches. The National Show Chair for that year’s show will contact these judges to ascertain availability and fees. If anyone is not available or if their fees are above the limit set by the Board, the assignment will be adjusted so that the judge with the most votes and conforming fees is assigned Intersex and then Dogs, then Bitches.
Amendments – motion and report date.
*Amended – E-05-02-RR6-1(KC): I move that the Judge’s Selection Guidelines be amended (5/02).
**Amended – E-05-02-RR6-2(KC): I move that the Judge’s Selection Guidelines be amended (5/02).
LEGISLATION COMMITTEE
COMMITTEE OBJECTIVES AND GOALS
The major objective of the Legislation Committee is to keep abreast of all canine legislation going on across the country. The committee’s responsibilities include making all ACA members and Akita fanciers aware of current legislation and encouraging everyone to be “proactive” rather than “reactive”. This is a momentous task, but with everyone becoming involved in their state and city, we can make a difference and prevent unfair legislation from being passed. There are many great organizations that have terrific web sites full of pertinent information on how to mobilize our forces and make our voices heard, such as: The American Kennel Club, Dog Watch, American Dog Owner’s Association, National Animal Interest Alliance, just to name a few. Local kennel and breed clubs are also other great sources of information and support.
DESCRIPTION OF COMMITTEE RESPONSIBILITIES
Communication and getting the word out is the biggest responsibility of this committee. With representatives all across the country and in Canada, we will be able to monitor the legislative climate and be aware of pending legislation before it is passed. “Teamwork” is truly a major factor in getting everyone interested and involved. All dog owners need to realize that unfair legislation affects every one of us.
SPECIAL SKILLS/REQUIREMENTS
No special skills are required to be a part of this committee other than members being able to monitor their local news and various legislative web sites. Committee members also share current legislative information with the committee and other ACA members via e-mail.
SPECIFIC TASKS/PROJECTS OF INDIVIDUAL COMMITTEE MEMBERS
The ACA Legislation Committee currently consists of four members. Additionally, Rita Biddle, Nancy Fisk, and Lynn Morgan have also agreed to assist in offering advice, support and ideas on local and national projects that we can get involved in.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
The Legislation Committee is one of the most exciting to be involved in. It is truly a gigantic task to prevent bills from being passed that are detrimental to all of us. We have a wonderful group of people on the committee and a terrific support group. Working together, we will make a difference.
MEMBERSHIP SUPPORT COMMITTEE
COMMITTEE OBJECTIVES AND GOALS
The Membership Support Committee monitors the membership and will send appropriate expression of cheer, sympathy, and/or condolences to members who might need them. These will be in the form of cards or notes that will be sent on behalf of the Akita Club of American to the member in question. In case of a deceased ACA member, the family will be sent a card of condolence and the committee shall request that the Board make a donation of $100 to the Canine Health Foundation Donor Advised Fund in the name of the member as a memorial.
DESCRIPTION OF COMMITTEE RESPONSIBILITIES
Upon receipt of notification, an appropriate card is purchased and a line is written to personalize the message. The card is signed: Akita Club of America Board.
SPECIAL SKILLS/REQUIREMENTS
No special skills are needed. This could be done by someone without e-mail, as a phone call could prompt the action, yet e-mail makes is easier.
SPECIFIC TASKS/PROJECTS OF INDIVIDUAL COMMITTEE MEMBERS
There are no committee members.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
This is the perfect position for a person who wants to help the club, but has limited time available.
PUBLIC EDUCATION COMMITTEE
COMMITTEE OBJECTIVES AND GOALS
The main purpose of the committee is offering the public educational material regarding owning and living with an Akita. We very much need to increase our capability to educate the public about the Akita. Ways to accomplish this are having breed booths at more shows, gathering individuals to speak to schools on proper pet ownership and the Akita itself. Limitations on this committee are only those of manpower.
DESCRIPTION OF COMMITTEE RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Act as the main public contact for the breed in an attempt to educate regarding the benefits and drawbacks of living with Akitas.
2. Assist in any facet of Akita ownership from directing the inquiry to the proper location for answers, offering a list of trainers for the Akita breed, or even referring to general information regarding the Akita in the household/family environment.
3. Refer interested parties to the proper person/group, i.e., rescue, genetics, etc., for more assistance.
4. Research any request for specific language to be used in write-ups regarding the Akita breed.
SPECIAL SKILLS/REQUIREMENTS
Knowledge of using/managing/maintaining a subscription to the PEC Yahoo e-mail group. Canine behavior background, breeding, showing, obedience training (all areas), breed placement skills, etc., are pluses.
SPECIFIC TASKS/PROJECTS OF INDIVIDUAL COMMITTEE MEMBERS
All tasks are given to the committee by the ACA board members and ACA contacts. Once given a project, we discuss it and write a compilation of information in a timely fashion. The chair then submits it to the appropriate party. We mainly work together as a group on projects.
RESCUE COMMITTEE
COMMITTEE OBJECTIVES AND GOALS
To be a liaison between ACA and Akita rescue groups, keeping ACA’s best interests in mind at all times. To provide education to the general public about the Akita breed in general and the Akita in rescue.
DESCRIPTION OF COMMITTEE RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Respond to all phone calls and e-mails in a timely manner. Maintain log of inquiries.
2. Own ACA Rescue Committee e-mail list.
3. Forward rescue donations to ACA Treasurer.
4. Receive and review all ACA Rescue Fund claims.
5. Scan and submit claims to ACA webmaster to post for committee review.
6. Ensure all claims are reviewed and processed within 30 days of receipt.
7. If claim is approved, send funds letter and letter of indemnity to ACA Treasurer.
8. Notify claimant of approval/disapproval of claim, with explanation.
9. Keep record of claims reviewed and amounts paid.
10. Organize fund raising, including fund raising activities at the national.
11. Ensure Rescue of the Week is updated weekly.
12. Be part of as many rescue e-mail lists as possible to pass on requests for adoption, surrender, or shelter assistance.
13. Hold annual rescue meeting if possible.
14. Organize rescue tables for the national specialty.
15. Mentor/offer advice to new rescue groups/individuals.
16. Direct periodic brainstorming for new committee projects.
17. Review rescue group listing on a quarterly basis.
18. Notify ACA Board of any problems arising from Akita rescue that might affect the parent club.
19. Represent ACA on the National Breed Rescue e-mail list.
20. Provide the Board quarterly reports on Rescue Committee actions.
21. Provide the Board an annual report including claims paid, completed projects, continuing projects, etc.
SPECIAL SKILLS/REQUIREMENTS
1. Need access to scanner/fax machine.
2. Ability to create spreadsheets and reports.
3. Communication skills including the ability to deal with people calmly and professionally.
4. Requires approximately 1-2 hours a day.
SPECIFIC TASKS/PROJECTS OF INDIVIDUAL COMMITTEE MEMBERS
1. Rescue of the Week submissions.
2. Quarterly Rescue Group updates.
3. Mentoring Program.
TOP 20 COMMITTEE
COMMITTEE OBJECTIVES AND GOALS
The Akita Club of America offers a Top Twenty event to showcase excellence in Akitas. This event is a part of the ACA National Specialty and serves many purposes. It educates judges, exhibitors, breeders and fanciers. The event offers all who attend a chance to view the cream of the crop in competitive standing for the previous year. Using a scale of points, each dog is evaluated according to how closely it conforms to the breed standard. This procedure is not available at any point show and allows the spectators an opportunity to evaluate the dogs while scoring them at the same time they are being judged. The event is educational and promotes discussions of the standard and provides spectators with an opportunity to see how individual views can produce a consensus decision which can then be compared to their own impressions. This event provides special recognition to those Akitas with the most outstanding records as well as their breeders, trainers, and owners. The Top Twenty even provides an incentive to strive for Akitas excelling in structure, movement, temperament, and conformation.
DESCRIPTION OF COMMITTEE RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Contract judges.
2. Judges hospitality – set up rooms, meals, thank you gifts.
3. Contract Stewards
4. Identify top 20 dogs in both the Breed and All-Breed standings per AKC.
5. Acquire their owners and addresses.
6. Send invitations, rules, order forms to eligible dogs.
7. Make sure free advertising gets to the show superintendent.
8. Purchase trophies.
9. Purchase supplies.
10. Purchase pins.
11. Prepare flyer with the judges’ biographies and event information.
12. Prepare Certificates of Merit.
13. Meet with entrants to give directions for the ring procedure.
14. Solicit funds for the Top 20 reception.
15. Order food and orchestrate the reception.
16. Set up sound system.
17. Obtain information for the entrants to breed by the speaker.
18. Obtain speaker.
19. Run the ring.
SPECIAL SKILLS/REQUIREMENTS
Should be able to work with Microsoft Word and Publisher or similar programs. Be able to work well together.
TOP 20 STATISTICS AND ELIGIBILITY
1. Named among the final Top Twenty Akitas in conformation competition for Breed or Group points for the previous year.
2. Standings are based on Breed and/or Group point wins as published in the AKC Awards publication for System I and System II for the period beginning Jan 1 and ending Dec 31. The Top Twenty Committee compiles the statistics as published in the AKC Awards.
3. All owner and co-owners of the finalist must be in good standing with the AKC and ACA at the time the invitations are extended and at the time of the event. Committee members and Top Twenty Chair are not permitted to own or co-own dogs participating in the upcoming year’s National Specialty Top Twenty competition for which they are serving.
4. All agree to abide by any and all rules as they may become effective through authorization of the Top Twenty Chair or National Show Chairman as they concern the finalists’ participation in the event. Failure to do so may revoke the privilege of future participation, regardless of eligibility.
5. Spayed bitches or neutered dogs who have been named among the final Top Twenty Akitas may compete in the event.
6. Finalists will only be allowed to compete if the owner or agent attends the briefing held at least ˝ hour prior to the event, for the purposes of:
a. Checking in with the Top Twenty Committee
b. Receiving an armband
c. Receiving the order in which the participants will enter the ring
d. Informing the owner or agent that they are responsible for cleaning up after their dog during the event.
Owners can order Top 20 lapel pins from the ACA. A maximum of 1 pin per owner and breeder plus one for the handler can be ordered. Owners must have a dog eligible to compete in the Top 20.
Top Twenty Rules of Participation (2007)
The Akita Club of America (ACA) offers a Top Twenty event to showcase excellence in Akitas. This event is a part of the ACA National Specialty and serves many purposes. It offers education for judges, exhibitors, breeders and fanciers. The event offers all who attend a chance to view the cream of the crop in competitive standings for the previous year.
Using a scale of points, each dog is evaluated according to how closely it conforms to the breed standard. This procedure is not available at any regular AKC show and allows the spectators an opportunity to evaluate the dogs while scoring them at the same time they are being judged. The event is educational and promotes discussions of the standard. It provides spectators with an opportunity to see how individual views can produce a consensus decision. This event provides special recognition to those Akitas with the most outstanding records as well as their breeders, handlers, trainers, and owners. The Top Twenty event provides an incentive for breeders to strive for Akitas excelling in structure, movement, temperament, and conformation.
Statistics and Eligibility –
1. Named among the final Top Twenty Akitas in conformation competition for Breed or Group points for the previous year.
2. Standings are based on Breed and/or Group point wins as published in the AKC Awards publication for System I and System II for the period beginning Jan 1 and ending Dec 31 of the previous year.
3. The Top Twenty Committee compiles the statistics as published in the AKC Awards or acquires these statistics directly from AKC at the end of the competition year.
4. All owners and co-owners of the finalists must be in good standing with the AKC and ACA at the time the invitations are extended and at the time of the event. Top Twenty Chairman and committee members are not permitted to serve on the committee if they contribute or participate in any way towards the campaign of a dog eligible to compete in the upcoming Top Twenty event. This participation would include the owner, co-owner, professional handler, financial backer, or any other participation in the campaign.
5. All agree to abide by any and all rules as they may become effective through authorization of the Top Twenty Chairman or National Show Chairman as they concern the finalists' participation in the event. Failure to do so may revoke the privilege of future participation, regardless of eligibility.
6. Spayed bitches or neutered dogs who have been named among the final Top Twenty Akitas may compete in the event.
7. Invitations –
a. Each owner of a Top Twenty Finalist will be sent an invitation to participate in this event no later than 4 months prior to the National Specialty.
b. There is an entry fee which will be sent along with the entry form received from and then returned to the ACA National Specialty designated superintendent.
c: Included in the Invitation packet are:
i. Formal Invitation
ii. Congratulations letter
iii. The Top Twenty Committee: Selection, Duties, & Function of any Proposed Special Committee.
iv. The Top Twenty Event: Rules & Eligibility
v. Judging the Top Twenty Invitational: Procedures for Conformational Evaluation & Scoring.
vi. Sequence of Events in the Ring
vii. Score Sheet
viii. Catalog Advertisement Form
8. Trophies, Rosettes, Certificates of Achievement
a. Each eligible Akita will receive a Certificate of Achievement (additional Certificates will be available for purchase for a nominal fee)
b. Each Top 20 Participant will receive a Top 20 Rosette embossed with the dogs name
c. Top 20 Lapel Pins will be offered for eligible parties to purchase for a nominal fee.
d. The winner of the Top 20 competition will be announced at the annual ACA Banquet. A trophy will be awarded to the owner(s) at that time.
9. Procedures:
A. Entrants will only be allowed to compete if the owner or agent attends the briefing held at least ˝ hour prior to the event (this meeting will be posted as to time and place), for the purposes of:
i. Checking in with the Top Twenty Committee
ii. Receiving an armband
iii. Receiving the order in which the participants will enter the ring.
iv. Informing the owner or agent that they are responsible for cleaning up after their dog during this event.
v. At least one representative of the entrant will be present at this meeting
vi. The stewards and all Top 20 Committee members will be required to attend this meeting
vii. All participants will be given instructions regarding when to be ringside, where to wait, and specific ring/judging procedures
B. Scoring
i. Each entrant will be judged/scored by each of the three judges on a separate score sheet for each dog for each judge
ii. Score sheets (attached) will be Akita Standard specific (AKC approved Akita Standard).
iii. Each entrant will be scored individually, by each of the judges, towards a maximum score of 100 points
iv. After all entrants have been individually scored, all entrants will be brought into the ring together. Each judge will mentally place five of the entrants First through Fifth place and mark a “group” score sheet with his placements
1. 1st place will receive 5 bonus points
2. 2nd place will receive 4 bonus points
3. 3rd place will receive 3 bonus points
4. 4th place will receive 2 bonus points
5. 5th place will receive 1 bonus point
v. Bonus points will be added to the compiled breed standard score (maximum compiled score available = 105)
vi. Scores will be tallied by the Top 20 Chairman, the ACA Treasurer, and one other Committee
Member
viii. The highest total scoring dog will be designated the winner
ix. In case of a tie for first place the dog with the most combined group points will be designated the winner.
VERSATILITY COMMITTEE
COMMITTEE OBJECTIVES AND GOALS
To encourage Akita owners to do more with their companions. To show owners what other Akitas have achieved so they get an idea what they might like to try with their dogs.
DESCRIPTION OF COMMITTEE RESPONSIBILITIES
Act as mentors to other Akita owners, encourage owners to achieve a well-rounded dog. Update Versatile Akita and Versatile Akita Excellent requirements as necessary.
SPECIAL SKILLS/REQUIREMENTS
Computer skills are helpful.
SPECIFIC TASKS/PROJECTS OF INDIVIDUAL COMMITTEE MEMBERS
Tracking new performance activities (AKC, APDT, etc.), changes in AKC rules that would impact performance events, lowering the jump height for Akitas in AKC, contacting owners of obedience and tracking titled Akitas to let them know of the VA and VAX programs, track and list the rankings of obedience, agility and Rally-O dogs.
VERSATILE AKITA PURPOSE:
To encourage Akita owners to provide opportunities for their dogs to work in the many ways in which Akitas are capable of providing service and thereby enable dogs and owners to know the joy of working together. To provide certification for those Akita owners and their dogs who perform these tasks. The encourage those Akita owners who do not exhibit their dogs in conformation to work with their dogs in other activities. To encourage the breeding of Akitas with the soundness and temperament that enables them to work and interact with people, to become the superb companions they are meant to be.
SCOPE:
To establish criteria for the versatility/working Akita. To establish areas in which these points can be earned. To establish rules for certification. The Versatility/Working Dog Certification Program shall be self-supporting and thereby not be a burden to the ACA. Certification charges shall be sufficient to cover printing and mailing of certificates.
ELIGIBILITY:
1. The Akita shall be registered with a recognized kennel club (AKC, CKC, UKC, SKC, ASCA). An ILP registration number is also permitted.
2. The owner shall be a member in good standing of ACA at the time of application for the certificate.
3. Deceased Akitas meeting registration requirements and having fulfilled all the requirements for certification are eligible for the Versatility/Working Dog Certification if the owner was a member of ACA when the dog was alive. All necessary documentation must be completed and submitted to the Working Dog Committee for review.
FIELDS OF CERTIFICATION:
1. Conformation (max 4 pts)
2. Obedience
3. Rally-O
4. Tracking
5. Agility
6. Flyball
7. Weight pulling
8. Sledding
9. Therapy
10. Temperament
11. Health (max 2 pts)
12. Community Service/Public Education
13. Automatic Title
QUALIFICATION:
1. The Versatility/Working Dog Certificate requires a minimum of 10 points with one point from at least 2 of the first 9 categories.
2. The Versatility/Working Dog Excellent Certificate requires a minimum of 15 points with one point from at least 3 of the 9 categories.
3. A maximum of 6 points from any area (excluding conformation which has a maximum of 4 points) should encourage broad experience.
DOCUMENTATION:
Documentation of the titles earned and the dog’s registration MUST accompany the application. The following list of acceptable documentation applies:
a. AKC, CKC, UKC, SKC, ASCA or other national club titles.
Photocopy of title certificate
Photocopy of “New Title” listing in Awards Publication
b. Conformation points
Photocopy of show results in Award publication
c. Other areas
Photocopy of title/certificate
Photocopy of veterinarian report or other lab report
POINT SCHEDULE:Points will be awarded as noted below for the highest title earned in each area.
CertificationArea Points
1 2 3 4 5
Conformation(Max 4 pts) AKC, CKC, UKCmajor points AKC/Canadian/UKCCH Group Winner BIS
Obedience(points for eachtitle/sanction) Leg Towards CD(AKC/CanadianKC/UKC) AKC/CanadianKC/UKCCD Title CDX Title UD Title
Rally O Qual Run(max 2 pts) Rally Novice SingleTitlebeyondRN
Tracking TRKG qualified TD TDX VST
Agility(points for eachtitle/sanction) Qual Run(max 2 pts) N/A SingleTitlebeyondNA
Flyball Participate inCompetition Member ofwinningteam
Weight Pull Participate inCompetition Class Winner
Sledding Participate inCompetition Member of winning team
Therapy Unit of 20 hoursservice - Maximum of 5 units Delta or TDICertified(max 2 pts)
Temperament(max 2 pts) CGC TT
Health(max 2 pts) All certifiabletests w/proof orregistration
CommunitySvc/PublicEducation School Programs,Community fairs,Pet fairs, Blood Bank(min 2 yrs or 10donations)(max 1 pt)
6 points Gaines SuperDog OB/OTCH MACHTracking CH Working S&Rdog
AutomaticVA (SpecialSkills) Guide/Hearing/Assistance Dog,S&R dogs that haveparticipated atrecognized disastersite
WAYS & MEANS COMMITTEE
COMMITTEE OBJECTIVES AND GOALS
The Ways and Means Committee is the fund raisin committee for the ACA. The committee’s main responsibility is to order and distribute merchandise at the national specialty every year. In addition, the committee is a year round fund raising committee and aids such committees as Rescue and Health and genetics with fund raisers.
DESCRIPTION OF COMMITTEE RESPONSIBILITIES
The committee’s responsibilities include selecting, taking pre-orders for, and ordering the logo merchandise for the national specialty. Once at the national, the committee sorts and packages all pre-orders for mailing or pick-up at the show. While at the national pre-ordered items can be packaged and prepared for mailing which can be done immediately after the national. The committee runs the merchandise table throughout the week during show hours as well.
The committee works intensively with the Show Chair and Treasurer in the months leading up to the national.
The committee is also the liaison with the merchandise company and works with the logo artist.
During the national week, the committee tries to plan and run at least one fund raiser for Rescue, Health & Genetics and/or the CHF.
After the national there may be a few loose ends on pre-ordered items that need to be dealt with.
After the national the committee is responsible for mailing all marked catalogs that were preordered. National results can be obtained from the show superintendent website. A copy can be printed out and photocopies made and included in pre-ordered catalogs.
At least once during the year, the committee plans and organizes an online auction to benefit the above mentioned committees.
One member is responsible for keeping all leftover national merchandise and any ACA merchandise that is carried in the ACA online store and mailing it out when someone places an order.
SPECIAL SKILLS/REQUIREMENTS
The only skill needed is a good sense of organization. Before the national, the committee takes in almost all moneys: merchandise, banquet, RV parking, reserved seating, donors, fund raising, and any other item that is on the Ways & Means form in the national flyer. All this must be recorded and kept separate and weekly updates and checks must be mailed to the treasurer. Additionally, the committee must notify the committee chairs when money and reservations are received for banquet, reserved seating, RV parking, etc.
Members need access to a computer, and need to have a fair amount of time to spare as this is a time consuming committee especially in the few months before the national.
The online auction is also very time consuming and detail oriented but that only takes a few weeks to organize and put on.
SPECIFIC TASKS/PROJECTS OF INDIVIDUAL COMMITTEE MEMBERS
Usually volunteers are solicited to help with specific things. For example, there is not just one person in charge of the auctions, a couple work together. Input is always requested from the members regarding the merchandise and fund raisers for the national.
The chair is responsible for record keeping and making quarterly reports to the board for publication in the ACA Update.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
When one is a member of the Ways and Means Committee, it is important that they are not hesitant about asking individuals and organizations for donations for the auctions. That is how the committee receives items for the online auctions and most of the prizes for fund raisers at the national. It requires a good amount of begging. The committee also needs to be willing to donate a certain amount of time at the national to sort and distribute merchandise and running the Ways and Means table.
WEB SITE COMMITTEE
COMMITTEE OBJECTIVES AND GOALS
To provide current information on the ACA and its committees and activities to all ACA members and interested parties, and provide general, genetic and health information about Akitas to the general public.
DESCRIPTION OF COMMITTEE RESPONSIBILITIES
To update the ACA website as requested by various board members and committee chairs. To keep the website operational and running and provide a means to back up the website in case something should happen to the site host.
SPECIAL SKILLS/REQUIREMENTS
Front page or similar web design program or HTML knowledge. Ability to upload and download files from/to website. FTP capabilities and experience and the ability to create
PDF files is also a plus. Ability to open and read Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Publisher is also a plus.
Must be able to open common graphic files (.bmp, .tiff, .jpg, .gif) and
modify them as required.
SPECIFIC TASKS/PROJECTS OF INDIVIDUAL COMMITTEE MEMBERS
1. Rescue Committee Reimbursement Review – as requested basis, post reimbursement requests sent to the Rescue Committee on the website for the committee to review.
2. Rom Dams and Sires Section – as requested basis, adding dogs submitted with new
ROM titles to the specified section.
3. CHIC Section – as requested basis, adding names of new dogs achieving CHIC numbers to the website.
4. Health and Genetics Section – as requested basis, updating existing pages with new pages as provided by the Health and Genetics Committee.
5. Geriatrics Section – as requested basis, updating existing pages with new pages as provided by the Geriatrics Committee.
6. National Specialty Section – as requested basis, updating/adding new information about the upcoming National Specialty and associated activities. Adding trophy information, costs, donors, etc., as provided. Create forms for donations, purchasing merchandise, tickets, etc., for the national.
7. Regional information – updating and adding information about upcoming Regional Specialties as provided by the clubs.
8. Members Section – adding board and committee minutes, adding Updates, and adding titles and reports as provided.
9. E-mail Addresses – maintain and create club e-mail addresses as required.
10. Forms Section – updating forms as provided, adding new ones as required.
11. Breeders Referral list – updates as requested.
12. Clubs Membership list – updates as requested.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
The more experience an individual has with creating, maintaining, and updating a website, the easier it will be to care for the ACA website. Also having a fast computer and direct connection will also ease the maintenance. Keeping things organized, deleting files and pictures when not needed, not storing multiple copies of pictures/graphics will all help to make maintaining a site this size easier.
VICE PRESIDENT
(Elected Board Position)
POSITION OBJECTIVES AND GOALS
As the Membership chairperson, accurately maintain the ACA membership databases. Assume the position of President in the President’s absence.
DESCRIPTION OF POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Answer all membership inquiries, verbal and e-mail.
2. Verify membership for ACA e-mail list and passwords.
3. Prepare labels and send to any committee needing them.
4. Maintain the ACA databases (change of addresses, e-mails, etc.)
The database now has a column added called “STATUS” that explains by code what the current status of the member is. HM means Honorary Member (but did not pay membership dues so has no voting rights), M = not a current member since 2001 or before; M02 = not a current member since 2002; and M03 = current member in good standing. When doing renewals, it would be good to have an M04 code so it shows current and in good standing for 2004. The other names in the database can be kept to include in mailings for things like the national premium list, etc., where we are trying to reach ALL Akita people and not just ACA members.
5. Process membership applications (prepare motions, add to database, put in respective binder).
6. Send out membership acceptance packets.
7. Generate and conduct any correspondence with applicants.
8. Send monthly/quarterly region reports to the Region Representatives.
9. Chair the Membership Committee.
10. Send out membership renewals.
11. Prepare non-renewal reports for Region Representatives so they can contact non-renewals.
12. Prepare all membership related statistics for the membership.
13. Submit checks to the Treasurer on a regular basis using a check log that lists all details of the transaction. This is a good check and balance for money transactions and safeguards all parties.
SPECIAL SKILLS/REQUIREMENTS
Excellent organizational and computer skills are required to maintain the ACA membership databases.
CORRESPONDING SECRETARY
(Elected Board Position)
POSITION OBJECTIVES AND GOALS
To encourage Akita owners to do more with their companions. To show owners what other Akitas have achieved so they get an idea what they might like to try with their dogs.
DESCRIPTION OF POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES
1. The CS has the charge of the correspondence for the Club, and of responding to that correspondence at the direction of the board of directors.
2. The CS notifies the board members and the club members of their meetings.
3. The CS notifies the officers and directors of their election to office. The CS also notifies committee chairs and members of their appointment and/or removal.
SPECIAL SKILLS/REQUIREMENTS
The ability to work with computer in word-type documents. Writing ability. Good grasp of English composition and grammar. Formation of a good working relationship with the AKC. This position requires a fairly large time commitment, more so at some times than at other times. Attention to details. Knowledge of rules for dog shows of AKC, particularly in regard to running shows and show application process. Good people skills and the ability to work with people and with any member, as needed.
SPECIFIC TASKS/PROJECTS OF POSITION
1. Make initial contacts with judges elected for the National specialty. If they accept the assignment to judge, write and mail out the contracts for the National judges. Maintain those signed and dated contracts on file for ACA records and to aid the show committee. Sends copies of all final contracts to the Treasurer and to the show Chair.
Procedure:
The Corresponding Secretary receives a list of names from the Judges Selection Committee. Number one will have received the most votes.
Contact Judge #1 and ask them to judge. Get a verbal commitment. Send out the contract. Wait to receive signed and dated contract copy for ACA. File ACA copy of contract.
Only after having the signed and dated contract come back to the Corresponding Secretary, is Judge #2 contacted.
For example: for the National; the one with the most votes judges BOB; second does Dogs; third does Bitches.
Same with sweeps: #1 gets Puppy Sweeps; #2 gets Veterans Sweeps and 3 Generation and Breeders Cup.
For Futurity/Maturity: The #1 judge does both. The Futurity/Maturity Committee provides the judge list. If the first judge does not accept, go to the next one and so on.
A judge may not accept. If that judge does not accept, pass over them and ask the next judge on the list.
2. Annual officer’s election.
A. The CS notifies the membership of the Nominating Committee’s slate on or before May 15. The CS receives the nominations from the floor. Those must be checked for accuracy and correctness as per the ACA Bylaws. The CS must properly notify the board of each nomination from the floor received. Valid nominations are accepted up to and including June 15 of each year.
A valid nomination from the floor, per the ACA Bylaws, is one written petition addressed to the CS and received by the CS on or before June 15 which is signed by 5 members in good standing, and accompanied by the written acceptance of the candidate. Nominees must have been members in good standing since the prior year’s election.
B. The CS must get all of the information in regard to the Club’s election to the independent accounting firm chosen to print, mail out, receive, and verify, and count the ballots and certify the club’s election. That includes the Nominating Committee slate, all Nominations from the floor, the election biographies sent by each candidate, instructions on voting, the correct and up-to-date membership list and the ballot stamp. The independent accounting firm must have the ballots in the mail to the membership on or before July 1 of each year. This is a very short time frame in which to accomplish a great deal of work.
C. The CS notifies the elected officers. The CS notifies the membership of the results of the election on August 15.
3. Show/Trial Applications
A. Independent clubs own their own AKC show licenses. They do not use the ACA show license. The AKC does require these Clubs to ask for Parent Club approval of their show dates. The CS receives such requests and notifies the Board, which grants such requests.
B. ACA Member Clubs that do not own a show license may only host a show by using the ACA’s show license. These require the signature of an ACA Officer, which is normally done by the CS. The member club notifies the CS that they wish to hold a regional, or a supported entry, sweeps, etc. The CS notifies the board and calls for a Motion to Approve. The Recording Secretary will write that motion and post it for voting by the board members on the board e-mail list.
C. CS works with the show chairs, the AKC Event Plans Department, and the board to resolve any problems that may arise in regard to a member club’s show application.
D. The AKC Event Plans Department has a Blanket Approvals System in place. The CS is to send the AKC a list of all ACA member clubs and blanket approvals for the same by January 20 of each year.
E. The CS is basically the person responsible for the paperwork being correctly submitted on these shows using the ACA show license. It works best if the show chair sends the completed show/trial application and a check to the AKC for applicable fees to the CS. The CS checks that the paperwork is complete and correct, signs the application for the ACA and mails the application to the AKC. Certified mail is a very good idea. Having a track number on such materials has assisted us in locating misplaced applications in the past an din averting problems with the AKC to do with applications.
4. The CS must maintain a file of all the Club’s correspondence. At the end of the term of the CS, all of this material must be passed along to the next person to hold this position. This is very important to the continuity of information and to the board’s being able to conduct the day-to-day business of running the club.
5. Objections/Discipline
A. The CS receives written objections to membership applications, with evidence of the allegation(s). The CS must promptly notify the board of such objections. Executive session will be invoked. Written notification to failed applicants is made by the VP/Membership Chair.
B. The CS receives written charges made by one member against another member, with evidence of the allegation(s). The CS must promptly notify the board of such charges. Executive session will be invoked.
Any member in good standing may bring charges against another member for: alleged misconduct prejudicial to the best interests of the club or the breed. A written charge with specifications and evidence must be filed in duplicate with the CS together with a deposit of twenty dollars. The money is sent by the CS to the Treasurer. The CS must promptly send a copy of the charge or objection to each board member or present them at a board meeting.
The board may refuse to entertain jurisdiction. Or the board may determine to entertain jurisdiction. If the board entertains jurisdiction, the CS must promptly inform the accused member or applicant by certified mail of the action of the board has taken and that the matter is in Executive Session.
If disciplinary action against a member may be entertained, the board will fix a date and time for a hearing in the accused’s city of residence of not less than 30 days or more than 60 days after this decision. The CS must immediately send the accused member by registered mail: notification of the hearting, one copy of the charges, notice that failure to appear and respond on the part of the accused shall be failure to show cause why disciplinary action should not be imposed, assurance that the defendant may personally appear in his/her own defense and bring witnesses. If the board decides that counsel may attend the hearing, notify of that as well.
Should the charges be sustained and action taken, the CS must promptly notify, in writing, each of the parties of the decision and penalty, if any.
The CS receives the notice that a member wishes to officially resign. Such must be promptly reported to the board by the CS.
6. Notice of Annual General Meeting: CS must mail written notice of the Annual General Meeting to each member at least 30 days prior to the meeting date.
7. Special meetings: written notice of all special meetings shall be mailed by the CS at least 14 days and not more than 30 days prior to the special meeting. The notice must state the purpose of the special meeting and that no other business may be transacted.
8. Board of Directors meetings: CS sends written notice to board members notifying them of board directors meetings at least 14 days prior to the meeting.
9. The board conducts its business either in person, by mail, FAX or e-mail, or by telephone call. Items voted on by telephone call must be confirmed in writing within 7 days.
10. CS will give a report at the Annual General Meeting.
11. CS receives all written petitions from the membership.
A. If the written petition proposes amendments to the Bylaws or the Standard, this must be signed by 50% of the membership in good standing.
B. Upon receipt of such petition the CS immediately notifies the board.
C. Within 3 months the CS must submit such written petitions to the membership, with recommendations from the board, for a vote. That is 3 months from the date that the petition was received by the CS.
D. Copies of any proposed amendment(s) to the Bylaws or Standard must be mailed by the CS to each member in good standing on the mailing date. An independent accounting firm will conduct the balloting as done for the club elections.
RECORDING SECRETARY
(Elected Board Position)
POSITION OBJECTIVES AND GOALS
Accurately maintain all records of minutes and motions made by the Club’s Board.
DESCRIPTION OF POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Accurately record the minutes of all meetings of the Board, according to Roberts Rules Rev and California Corporate laws. To maintain the minutes in files or binders which would be accessible to members on demand, and would be turned over to successor upon leaving office.
2. Monitor motions made, format them for voting, and record board member votes.
3. Send out Unanimous Consent forms, insure they are returned by all board members, and file them along with minutes.
4. Conduct Ratification voting, either during teleconference or via hard copy, for motions for which there were not unanimous voting results.
5. Gather all materials to be printed in the Update, and send them to the Update editor in a timely manner and in the needed format.
6. Attend the ACA National Specialty, and all Board meetings held at the National.
7. Prepare copies of annual Committee Reports for distribution at the Annual General Meeting.
8. Be prepared with color-coded cards or other media for ACA member voting at the Annual General Meeting.
SPECIAL SKILLS/REQUIREMENTS
1. Good familiarity with e-mail programs, including with Yahoo groups.
2. Own and be capable of using Microsoft Word and Excel, or similar programs, as well as being able to attach files to e-mails.
3. Must have ready online access daily to computer.
4. Ready access to a fax machine.
5. Helpful, but not mandatory, to have access to laptop for use at the National Board and Annual General meetings.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
This position requires on average an hour/day (or more) to monitor the Board e-mail list, motions, and maintain other responsibilities.
TREASURER
(Elected Board Position)
POSITION OBJECTIVES AND GOALS
To advise the Board and the National Show Committee on financial matters, and manage the organization’s assets.
DESCRIPTION OF POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES
Make deposits weekly as necessary, write checks twice monthly for expenses. Report monthly to the Board as to transactions in financial accounts and cash flow statement. The Treasurer works with the Ways and Means Committee to facilitate a vast majority of selling done at the National. The Treasurer works with VP during dues renewal to ascertain that the membership list is accurate.
The Books for the organization are required to be kept on Quicken or a similar bookkeeping program for ease of auditing. The ability to use Excel to produce a quarterly statement for the membership is also needed.
SPECIAL SKILLS/REQUIREMENTS
It is necessary to be able to communicate via e-mail as Board communication is via e-mail, most of the Club’s business is done online, and assets are handled electronically (i.e., Paypal, banking, and some committee expenses).
The Treasurer is a member of the Show Committee, and as such is required to attend the National, including Board meetings that occur in the days prior to the Show start or after the Show ends.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
The busiest time requirement for the Treasurer occurs during high sales points before the National, at the National itself and during the dues renewal period.
DIRECTOR AT LARGE
(Elected Board Position)
POSITION OBJECTIVES AND GOALS
The Directors at Large shall be accessible to and whenever possible offer assistance and guidance to the membership in general. The Directors at Large represents all the membership rather than one segment, looking at the membership as a whole rather than one or two regions.
The Directors at Large shall present the membership’s concerns and opinions to the Board.
In the temporary absence of a Region Representative, the Directors at Large should be prepared to step in and assist, as needed by answering questions or providing help. In a club where members can clash, the Directors at Large offer an alternative to members who do not feel they can talk to their Region Representative.
The Directors at Large do not have committees to oversee, except an occasional odd one now and then, so they could step in when someone else can’t do their job for some reason, especially if it’s a Region Representative.
The Directors at Large can take on “special projects” or extra jobs that don’t fall into any particular area.
SPECIAL SKILLS/REQUIREMENTS
The Directors at Large should have minimal computer skills and be able to transact the business of the board both via computer e-mail and teleconferencing.
The two Directors at Large will reside in separate states from each other.
REGION REPRESENTATIVE
(Elected Board Position)
POSITION OBJECTIVES AND GOALS
The Region Representative shall be accessible to and whenever possible offer assistance and guidance to the membership of their region. They shall present their region’s concerns and opinions to the board. The ACA has established 6 regional areas, with each represented by a regional representative.
DESCRIPTION OF POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES
Establish a way to maintain contact with the region’s members as a way to keep the board informed of member’s concerns, suggestions, etc. Most regions have e-mail lists already established for this purpose.
Answer phone calls or e-mail inquiries. Many inquiries are from people interested in becoming club members but do not have sponsors. These people are referred to club members in their respective area, so that they may contact them.
Act as liaison to specified ACA committees keeping in contact with the committee’s chairperson for quarterly updates, taking to the board any committee requests as well as taking board requests to the committee chairperson.
Attend in person the national specialty and participate in the annual board meetings at the national, paying one’s own expenses. The board meetings at the national can very time intensive, meeting on several days and evenings/nights. Therefore, the region representative must be willing to spend the daily time involved for these meetings.
Participate in board business. Most board business is conducted via e-mail or teleconferencing.
SPECIAL SKILLS/REQUIREMENTS
The Region Representative shall reside within the region they represent. Computer skills and internet access are needed.
DELEGATE TO THE AMERICAN KENNEL CLUB
(AKC Delegate)
(Elected position but not Board Position)
POSITION OBJECTIVES AND GOALS
Represent the Akita Club of America as a delegate to the AKC.
DESCRIPTION OF POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES
1. The delegate body serves as the legislative body of the American Kennel Club and helps decide the rules for the sport of dogs.
2. Delegates also elect the Board of Directors from among their members.
3. Part of the responsibility of the delegate is to attend the delegate meetings which are held four times a year. It is inevitable that an occasional meeting might have to be missed, but there should be a very good reason for doing so.
4. The delegate should bring before the board and club any proposed amendments before they are to be voted on.
5. The delegate should be prepared to discuss and explain to the club any issues to be voted on if there are questions.
6. The delegate has a responsibility to report the results of the quarterly meetings to the club he or she represents.
7. The delegate also serves as an important channel of communication between the AKC and the fancy by keeping members of the club informed on pending issues, AKC actions and new policies.
8. It is also the responsibility of the delegate to pass along positions taken by ACA to the AKC Board and staff to introduce any amendments to rules that ACA would like to see.
SPECIAL SKILLS/REQUIREMENTS
It is important that the delegate be someone well versed in the sport of dogs because their vote impacts issues that are far reaching in all areas of the sport, not just the ACA. To that end, the delegate should be someone who has participated in the sport of dogs for at least some minimum amount of time, for instance, 10 years.
Computer skills and e-mail access are definitely advantageous.
SPECIFIC TASKS/PROJECTS
A delegate should be encouraged to seek a position on a delegate committee.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
Unless ACA decides to reimburse the delegate for the cost of attending the meetings, the delegate should be prepared for the cost of attending the meetings. Since meetings are held in various parts of the country the costs can be substantial.
PRESIDENT
(Elected Board Position)
The President shall be the Chief Executive Officer of the ACA, Chairman of the Board of Directors, presiding officer at all Board and general meetings and ex-officio member of all committees.
DESCRIPTION OF POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Attend monthly Board teleconference meetings.
2. Prepare monthly Board meeting agenda.
3. Supply monthly President’s message for the official publication.
4. Attend all National Specialties and annual meetings while in office.
5. Be able to represent the ACA in appropriate matters.
6. Participate in decision making at both the general and committee levels.
7. Accept leadership of the Board.
8. In an ex-officio capacity, oversee all committees and keep informed of corporate affairs and activities of all programs.
9. Be responsible for the proper conduct of the Board and assure the organization is functioning under the law and appropriate Roberts Rules.
10. Carry out duties in good faith with diligence, care and skill.
11. Properly use professional assistance of lawyers and parliamentarians as situations arise.
12. See that meetings are properly called and that a quorum is present.
13. Notify selected candidates for the Nominating Committee.
14. Properly manage elections.
15. Be able to respond promptly regarding important documents, esp. the authorization of funds through the Treasurer.
16. Insure that the entire ACA membership is informed of business through the official ACA
publications and e-mail lists, and other means of communication as warranted.
17. Perform other duties as needed and appropriate.
SPECIAL SKILLS/REQUIREMENTS/QUALIFICATIONS
1. Experience or knowledge in at least one of the following areas: Administration, Finance, Personnel, Program Development, Evaluation, Public Relations, Fund Raising.
2. Ability to objectively view many sides to situations
3. Time to devote to daily Board List participation.
4. A computer and computer knowledge and access to a fax machine are required.
5. Knowledge of corporate responsibilities within the state.
6. Leadership ability in guiding meetings in a timely, efficient manner.
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