Erik A. Bengtson

      Hello rabbit and cavy enthusiasts!  My name is Erik A. Bengtson and I am a candidate for ARBA Vice President.  I have raised rabbits continuously since getting my first Polish in 1975.  I Joined the ARBA in 1979 and have held a continuous membership since that time.  I attended my first ARBA Convention in 1977 and exhibited for the first time at an ARBA Convention in 1980, it was at that Convention that I knew I was hooked and would always be a rabbit enthusiast.  Since then, I’ve been to more than 25 ARBA Conventions, and missed my last one over 20 years ago.

     I earned my judge's license in 1996 and have judged 12 conventions for 8 different breeds.  I have judged numerous National Specialty Shows covering 22 different breeds.  I currently serve on the ARBA Standards Committee, chair the Judges Continuing Education Committee and was previously on the ARBA board for 4 years as the District 3 Director.  I have, at one time or another, been a member of every National Specialty Club, and am a life member of more than a dozen National Specialty Clubs.

     I have a Bachelors degree in Finance and am working on a Masters in Business. I have more than ten years of experience working for the banking industry where I have served as a Commercial Lender, Assistant Branch Manager, and Vice President. I reside in Zumbrota, Minnesota with my wife and four children.

     My campaign platform is a simple one: increasing goal oriented activity and planned gradual improvement in each of the following aspects of the ARBA:

         1. ARBA financial stability. One of my most important           responsibilities as an ARBA officer/Director is to ensure that ARBA dollars are being spent in a wise and efficient way. The ARBA must not only maintain a balanced budget, but that budget must include investments for the future. The members need to be involved in prioritizing those budgets and receive periodic reviews of the ARBA's financial condition.

         2. Communication. Communication with all members, registrars, Judges, local, regional, youth, and National clubs. Most of the ARBA's communication is done through the Domestic Rabbits magazine. We must continue to utilize new cost effective technology to increase the speed and broadness of our communications. We must continue to work towards a professional Internet presence that projects strength, stability, and a feeling of ongoing excitement.

             (a) Recognition - We must do a better job of identifying members that should be recognized for their contributions to our organization.  Hundreds of dedicated volunteers go unrecognized each year, let's change that.

        3. Education. Education is for EVERYONE.

             (a) General Public - Although we currently dedicate some of our resources towards education, we must broaden our scope to reach more of the general public.  Education of the general public will help to erode the footholds that anti-breeder organizations have and will also helpt o slow legislation that hampers rabbit and cavy breeding.  With our collective knowledge about rabbits and cavies there is no reason we shouldn't be the foremost authority on rabbits and cavies.

            (b) Members - Education of members will make every level of our organization better.  A five year old that learns about rabbits or cavies may continue on to become a registrar or club secretary, and maybe even a judge at some point.  All throughout his/her career, he/she can be serving as a mentor to the next future judge or club secretary.  We must recognize and embrace the different stages of our members go through: getting your first rabbit or cavy, decision to raise some, try showing, get serious about breeding & showsing, and finally helping others get started and guide them through the stages.  Different education materials are needed for each stage.

            (c) History - The ARBA Library is full of excellent information. We have done a great job of preserving it, now we need to take the next step and make it internet accessible, so we can share it with our members worldwide.

            (d) Standard of Perfection - Our organizatinos greatest collaboration, nearly 100 years of input has created this project. We must continue to protect, study, and enhance it.

       4. Youth.  We must continue to look for ways to become more youth friendly.  The youth program we currently have is terrific, but we need to start to reach out to classrooms across America.  The development of a few curriculums and activities on a website could give rabbits and cavies a tremendous boost throughout the country.

        5. Legislation and Zoning.  We must actively investigate and take action against city, county, state, and federal legislation or zoning that infringes on our right to raise rabbits and cavies.

     Please add me as a face book friend and become a fan of my new face book page ARBA Vice Presidential Candidate Erik A. Bengtson.  I have a campaign website: www.rabbitsrabbitsrabbits.com and I am accessible by e-mail: E_Bengtson@hotmail.com and by telephone at 507-216-6273.  I always welcome discussions to improve the ARBA!

Sincerely,     Erik A. Bengtson

Joey Shults

       I have been married to my wife Doreen for fifteen wonderful years. We travel to most shows together, and enjoy our time visiting with breeders, and advocating our hobby. We now reside in the state of California, currently raising Mini Rex.  

     More than thirty years ago, I became interested in the rabbit hobby. My first rabbits were Flemish Giants. An incredible highlight in my rabbit career was the achievement of Best in Show at the 1987 ARBA Convention in Portland Oregon.   Upon receiving my Judge's license some 20 years ago, traveling and viewing outstanding rabbits across my judging table is not only exciting, but truly rewarding. Also, being given the honor of judging a group for Best in Show and asked several times to judge different breeds at conventions is truly a highlight of my judging career. From the first years in the rabbit hobby, I learned the importance of involvement. This is why making myself available to ARBA members is so important.  Having had the opportunity to serve the ARBA membership in the following compass ties: Pres of the Heartland R.B.A., Board of director of the Southern Area Council of Cal, Pres of the S.A.C.of C., Pres of the California R. & C.B.A., Pres and cofounder of the So. Cal Mini Rex Club, Director of the N.M.R.R.C., Pres. Of the N.M.R.R.C., and now serving as the ARBA District 2 Director. It was my honor to receive the ARBA Distinguished Service Award in 2004 And also in 2009, received the ARBA President’s Award of Excellence.

     Doreen and I were given Lifetime memberships to the National Mini Rex Club. Doreen is working on the development of the new Silver Marten variety in the breed.  

 ~My retirement after over 30 years of working in the air conditioning and heating field as a foreman and superintendent helped me realize the organization of funds and communications is of the utmost importance. Let me draw your attention to the operating procedures of the ARBA. In working with Eric Stewart this past year, I would like to see us bring the ARBA office into the 21st Century. In doing so, everything would be fully automated. The charter renewals, sanction requests, membership applications, registration blanks and supplies could all be requested and purchased on line. In return you would receive an instant receipt of your transaction. The office salaries and postage are the largest expense that ARBA has. This process would help to cut costs from the ARBA office, and help in alleviating the dependency from the funds of the Standard of Perfection.   Money we save translates to development of new services to better support our membership.

 ~As ARBA members we should look into the subject of promoting and advertising for the Rabbit and Cavy Industry. We as fellow breeders sharing this common interest in rabbits and cavies have a great deal of knowledge and expertise. In the future we could  create and publish a magazine twice a year to help educate the public. In producing this kind of a magazine it would tie together the promotion of the 4-H and FFA youth programs also. It would be a great learning tool that everyone could benefit from. Also, it could be on shelves in retail stores and libraries available for the public. Along with the magazines and or books published.  ARBA could create a Legislation Foundation. This foundation would aid in addressing some of the zoning problems that the ARBA membership has in their different states and counties. Amount of animals verses the amount of size property available, laws, spay/neuter restrictions, and educating our members how to manage these issues. There needs to be a lot more clarification with different regions, as far as the rabbits and cavies are concerned. This kind of a committee could help in the production of these education materials in addition raising money to lobby for legislation protecting our rights to raise and enjoy our rabbits and cavies.

 ~The Youth is a very important component of the ARBA.  They are our future! In working with the ARBA Board, I will pursue the development of an ARBA Youth Distinguished Service Award. We should continue supporting the ARBA Youth Committee with the Youth Contest at conventions. We have great youth members that need the structure and guidance from their leaders to learn and grow. 

 ~As we approach the production of a new Standard of Perfection, a few additions come into mind. The Standard of Perfection should be put into a ringed binder. It would be beneficial to everyone. As the new breeds and varieties are excepted though out the 5 years of the Standard of Perfection, an insert can be purchased on line from the office. The insert can be added to the Standard of Perfection. This would help in keeping up with all the updates of the breeds.  

 ~Another item that we could change or adjust is the Judge's Academy. We should move it to different district seach year. ARBA has a lot of judges and registrars that would like to attend, but cannot travel to Illinois to do so. Moving the academy to different locations would be beneficial in the education of our judges and registrars. We need to continue to educate and communicate with everyone as much as we can though out the country. 

 ~As your fellow breeder, judge, and friend, I would solicit your support as I run for office of Vice President of the American Rabbit Breeders Association. Please feel free to become a fan of my face book page at Joey Shults for 2010 ARBA Vice President.

Cliff Dick

      Hello, my name is CLIFF DICK and I am taking this opportunity to announce my candidacy for ARBA District One Director.  I am also asking for your endorsement and VOTE.  My decision to run for this Directorship has been a lifetime in preparation.  You could say that I have literally grown up as an ARBA member.  I am proud to boast an active and continual membership in the ARBA since 1969.  I have had the privilege of knowing, learning and certainly have been influenced by a history of strong and visionary leaders from here in District One.  These same influences have challanged and inspired me to obtain a Registrar and Judge license and even given me the confidence to become a candidate for District One Director.  My "rabbit career" got its start here in North Central Washington, Leaving only in pursuit of my education.  I hold a Bachelors of Science in Biology, Chemistry and Nursing; a Master's in Nursing Anesthesia, and a PhD in Physiology.  My life has taken me to North Dakota, Minnesota, Oregon, Arizona and New Mexico.  And most recently my journey has brought me home again to Washington.  Currently I am a registered Nurse at a Veterans Community Based Out-Patient Clinic in Wenatchee.  Over the past twenty four years, I have experienced some great life adventures; I lived on the Navajo Indian Reservation and while in New Mexico I worked with Med-Flight, a critical care air ambulance, as Chief Flight Nurse.  I continued my federal service at the Veterans Administration, as a nurse Anesthetist and Nursing Supervisor.  Wherever I called home or whatever I am doing, I have continued to be actively involved in the "Rabbit" community.  Make no mistake about it; the ARBA has always played a significant role in my life.  This can be evidenced by my rigorous judging schedule and rabbitry.  I also have a wealth of experience from our hobby.  I have held nearly every office in Local and State Rabbit Association.  I have also held multiple offices in National Specialty clubs.  I have proudly served as State representative and have been a member or chair of a number of ARBA Committees.  Much like the members of district 1, I am motivated by passion.

     I will bring a unique and new perpective to this office which is excitin; you will find an invogorating freshness, commitment, motivation and of course a strong conviction, of servign the ARBA, and promoting District One.  I am very familiary with District One; from the land of the Rising Sun - Japan, to our Northern Neighbors in British Columbia and alberta.  I have the privilege of traveling throughout the entire District as both an exhibitor and judge.  This familiarity with District One will simply benefit all of us, as it facilitates better accessibility to our entire District.  I am approachable, open minded and a goot listener, which will allow our district to be better represented, and ultimately be heard!  I am confident I will represent District One and ARBA with dignity, integrity and character.  As an active judge, I have the opportunity to travel throughout the United States, Canada, Japan, Europe and even South America.  it has been an adventure nearly every weekend of my life.

     Our antional economies are fragile, "times are tough" in order for our Association to be stable and grow, we need more fiscal responsibility. We need to formulate both long and short term goals and set a course to meet the needs of our ever-changing association. I believe the administrative experiences that I will brign to this board will assist in meeting this goal. We need to raise our standards to those of the 21st Century. Research and implement new technologies that will ultimately reduce our over head and make us more lean and efficient. Look at the AKC, why can't we renew our memberships, purchase our show sanctions, renew our clubs charters; even registrations, all over the internet. This is truly one stop shopping! Communication is both our greatest strength and weakness. We need to better utilize the internet, and take advantage of our current publications. Not unlike the Domestic Rabbit, we have unlimited possibilities. This classified ads alone can bring in revenue to help support the printing. Maybe we should be selling it outside our hobby, like "Pet Smart?" Let's develop a "Policy & Procedure protocol manual". This will ensure that everyone is treated equally in our association. Let's write job descriptions for all our committees and their members. This should include the role of State Representatives, these individuals need to be used as resources. Let's review our current ARBA Standing Committees and solicit members with expertise and experience. We need to see ourselves as the "leader" in the world of rabbits. let's develop a virtual library and archive our Rabbit and Cavy husbandry, this encyclopedia of resources, historic information and pictures could be accessible to the world. let's recognize and honor more of our membership. Our hobby is filled with daily unrecognized heroes, let's identify and recognize people like yourself! You shouldn't have to be on the Executive Board to earn passage into the ARBA Hall of Fame.

     Your are going to be asked shortly to VOTE. You are being given a chance to participate in the future of the ARBA. I am asking for your endorsement and for your VOTE, for ARBA District 1 Director. Contact me at EtherBunny@juno.com or at the next show. My promise to the members of District One is that I am willing to dedicate all my efforts toward promoting and leading the ARBA with doplomacy, integrity, open-minded enthusiasm, generosity and professionalism, as well as with a sense of humor and candor. Remembers; Life is not measured by the breaths we take but by the moments that take our breath away.      

Roger Hassenpflug

     My name is Roger Hassenpflug.  I am a candidate for reelection for District One.  I am seeking this opportunity to serve and give back to a pastime that has given us so much enjoyment and so many lifelong friends.

     I have a wide variety of pertinent ARBA involvement.  An ARBA member since 1975, I am a charter member of our local club and remain active in putting on our local show.  I served as Vice-President and board member of the American Satin RBA for over 25 years, have chaired the Satin (and now Mini Satin) Standards Committee for over 15 years and received the club’s prestigious “Mr. Satin” award in 1987.  I have served on the ARBA Resolutions, Show Rules and Quality Show Assurance Committees, been an ARBA District Representative and served on the ARBA Standards Committee from 2000 to 2006 when I was first elected to the ARBA Board of Directors.  I was the General Superintendent of the 1987 ARBA Convention in Portland, OR, and hired the judges for the 1998 Portland Convention.  I received my Registrar’s license in 1982, a 16 breed specialty Judge’s license in 1987 (#567) and an all breed license in 2009.  In 2005 I was honored to receive the ARBA’s distinguished service award.  I have attended every ARBA Convention except one since 1980 and have been asked to judge every Convention since receiving my judges’ license (24 years this year).  I wrote the Satin section of the soon to be published ARBA All-Breed Judges’ Curriculum Guide and have been asked to make several presentations at ARBA Convention Judges’ Conferences, most recently at the 2008 Convention in Louisville.    I actively raise and show rabbits and we have been winning and placing with our Satins at national shows consistently since 1981. Since 2006, I have served District One on the ARBA Board of Directors.

     The ARBA is a private, nonprofit membership association and business.  It has employees and an annual budget of approximately $675,000.  Board members are elected volunteers who oversee the Executive Director, approve budgets and operating policy, and set the future vision of the organization.  To prosper, the organization needs Board members with experience in personnel practices, financial oversight, policy development, strategic planning and leadership.

      Since 1978 I have held executive management positions and since 1988 I have been the Executive Director (now President/CEO) of a private, non-profit corporation that serves people with developmental disabilities.  The company has grown under my leadership from $650,000 to $5.8 million in annual revenue (8.5+ times larger than the ARBA); from 30 to 160 employees with 150 volunteers; and from serving 50 to nearly 240 people.  We are the company of choice in our community, providing innovative, leading edge services. The company is stable, well run and uses contemporary business practices that challenge the stereotype for non-profits.  I am routinely asked to sit on the Boards of Directors of other organizations, from regional professional groups to local non-profits, overseeing Executive Directors, personnel, finance, policy and strategic planning.  In many respects, what I do for a living directly applies to managing the ARBA—personnel, finance, policy, strategic planning and leadership. You can check us out at www.livingopps.org.

      I have watched Board candidates over the years throw out numerous objectives in these profiles that they ultimately cannot deliver on.  Like it or not, the ARBA is a conservative organization that changes slowly over time and no individual Board member can accomplish much of anything single handedly.  Successful Board members must develop and maintain constructive, collaborative working relationships; negotiate and compromise, focus on a few goals and follow through when the opportunity for positive change arises.  The candidate you elect needs these skills to be successful.

      One person should not take responsibility for the achievements of a group like the ARBA Board.  Instead I will focus on what I have been involved in, what I have worked on with others to achieve and what I support.  I sat on the personnel review committee, overseeing the performance of the Executive Director, evaluating progress and proposing improvement.  I sat on the hiring committee for the current Executive Director.  I helped the President and Treasurer develop cash flow projections when the organization’s financial picture declined and continued to help monitor the month to month condition and progress of the organization.  I was the Board liaison to the Judge and Registrar Review committee, helping them write formal procedures so that the committee’s practices would be predictable and consistent in the future.  These activities may not be important in the everyday lives of members, but experience in those areas is vitally important to the organization.  We cannot afford a repeat of recent financial problems nor can we afford the impact of legal issues that arise out of botched personnel or policy work. The organization needs these skills to be successful.

     I support a variety of activities that I think would improve the functioning of the ARBA.  I have pushed to modernize business practices including writing resolutions to change the ARBA Constitution and By-Laws that would have brought the ARBA into conformity with current nonprofit business practice.  I have supported youth activities at every opportunity with grants, recognition in the DR column and the district web site, involvement at my local level and with my votes on the Board.  While it is true that many youth turn over and never to return to the hobby, it is also true that many current Registrars, Judges and knowledgeable breeders come out of those youth programs and, regardless, the activities build great citizens. I support judges’ new and continuing education, particularly the Judges Academy as well as improvements in the judges licensing process.  I think we are missing an opportunity by not being more supportive of the hobby in Japan and other countries.  A Japanese version of the Registrar’s Study Guide is easily produced and the expense could be underwritten by project supporters.  The point is not about profit or loss on the guide itself but using it as a tool to promote interest and expand membership which in turn increases revenue.  I think it is time for smaller breed clubs to collaborate, formally or informally, to produce newsletters, guidebooks (printed or web based) and hold national and regional shows together.  And finally, I support the announcement and publication of votes by Board members on every issue other than personnel matters.  You have a right to know how your Directors vote and sharing that information ought to be standard practice.

     The ARBA needs Board members with solid business experience.  We cannot afford another financial meltdown or the legal ramifications of inexperienced leadership.  Based on my applicable experience, track record and follow through, I am asking for your support for Director of District One.

Richard Gehr

     My name is Richard Gehr, and although I have resided in Coal City, Illinois for the past 37 years, I was born and raised in Conneaut, Ohio, graduating in 1968 from Greenbriar Military School in West Virginia. I am seeking the position of Director for District 5, a position I previously held from 1986 – 1990. Having been offered an employment position in the ARBA office at that time, I chose not to seek re-election for a third term. My reasons for running for the position of District Director are to represent the membership of District 5 as well as all ARBA members, insure membership services, improve the financial stability of the organization, encourage new members as well as retaining current members, and listen to and voice the concerns of the membership. The ARBA is an organization made up of the membership and chartered clubs, and should always function in the best interest of, and for both.

     I have been a member of the ARBA for over 30 years, I am an active breeder and showman, a licensed judge and registrar, and I have also served on a number of ARBA committees, including the ARBA Standards Committee. My involvement in ARBA chartered clubs ranges from local all breed associations to all levels of state and specialty clubs, and I have held a number of offices at each level. Currently I am involved in issuing sanctions and recording sweepstakes for the American Netherland Dwarf Rabbit Club and the National Jersey Wooly Rabbit Club. I also edit the club magazines for the American Dutch Rabbit Club, American Federation of New Zealand Rabbit Breeders, and the American Fuzzy Lop Rabbit Club. Being involved in the National specialty clubs affords me the opportunity to hear the voice of the ARBA membership across the entire country, as well as within District 5.

      Having been previously employed in the ARBA office for nearly 18 years, I have seen the operations and been a part of the organization from the inside as well as from a member’s viewpoint. I worked extensively with Board members, committees, and the entire ARBA membership in providing services, information, and assistance at every level. I have a passion to serve the organization and the membership, and feel every ARBA member is entitled to equal representation. All rules and regulations should be for everyone, at all times.

      The economy throughout the entire country over the past few years may be part of the reason for what appears to be a decline in ARBA membership and some privileges, however I feel more could be done to help resolve any of these situations. I feel that more transparency of Board actions and decisions, the financial status of the organization, and finding ways to increase or improve membership privileges could help the ARBA regain the status and strength I believe it better realized in the past. Listening to and working in unison with the membership should be a top priority for the ARBA Board and office. Becoming more involved in concerns expressed by the membership and chartered clubs could also help solidify the objectives of the organization and perhaps increase membership and club activities. I feel the membership should have more of an opportunity to express its concerns and opinions regarding actions and decisions made by the ARBA Board, and if elected I would encourage and promote this at all times.

      Having been General Chairman of two successful Illinois hosted ARBA Conventions has given me the total insight (from the bottom up) of the need and importance to work with each and every member in order to achieve satisfaction, gratification, and success in anything that we as an organization attempt to accomplish.

      I believe that as an active member of the ARBA, both as an individual and as an ARBA licensed judge, along with my 17+ years experience directly within the ARBA office, that I have a tremendous pulse for the concerns of members, and the needs of both the membership and the ARBA. I am an active individual who isn’t afraid to voice concerns that may not always be popular, but may be in the best interest of the ARBA members and chartered clubs. My lines of communications are always open to anyone regarding rabbit related activities, and any thought or idea that could work to benefit the organization and its members is worth listening to and representing.

      Regardless of whom you choose to support, please exercise your right to vote in the upcoming ARBA election.

Tom Little

     I am Tom Little and I am a candidate for a 3^rd term as ARBA Director District 5.  I have lived at the same address in Andover, Ks. for almost 40 years.  I have been married to Mary for over 43 years and we have a grown son and a deceased daughter, with 4 grandsons and 1 granddaughter.  Two of the grandsons like to attend rabbit shows and exhibit their rabbits.

      I was honorably discharged after 4 years in the U. S. Marine Corps.  After that, I worked for over 37 years in administration, accounting and management in the railroad business.  I was involved in making budgets and working and operating within budgets.  I was also involved with starting 2 short line railroads.  I was able to take early retirement from the railroad in 2002.  Since then I have stayed busy with the rabbits and also officiating for high school football, volleyball, softball, and college softball games, and maintaining a large garden.  In 2008 I was selected Kansas High School Softball Umpire of the year by the National Federation of High Schools.    

     I would like to remind all ARBA members that the ARBA is a business.  The main responsibility of your officers and directors is to run your ARBA in an efficient manner.  The difficult problems with all business’s is budget and finance.  We need directors that have business experience to continue operating the ARBA as a profitable business.  Remember previous business experience should help improve your ARBA.

     My family started with rabbits in 1978 when our daughter wanted them for a 4-H project.  Like many of you, when the daughter finished 4-H the rabbits stayed and dad started showing them.  The daughter was a member of ARBA for several years and in 1987 I joined the ARBA and have been a continuous member since then.  My main focus has been Satins, but have also raised several other breeds.

     In addition to the ARBA, I am a member of the American Satin Rabbit Breeders Association, American Federation of New Zealand Rabbit Breeders, Kansas State Rabbit Breeders Association, Sunflower Rabbit Breeders Association, Missouri State Rabbit Producers Association, Midwest Trailblazers Rabbit Club, Heart of American Satin Rabbit Club, The Cave State Satin Rabbit Club, The Kansas New Zealand Club, and the South Central Satin Club.

     For the past 35 years, I have been heavily involved in the 4-H Program.  I have enjoyed the opportunity to help my own children and grandchildren as well as countless others learn about responsible animal car, sportsmanship, and setting and working toward goals.  I have volunteered in both Butler and Sedgwick County 4-H rabbit projects as well as the sheep and beef projects.  I also served for 3 years as a local club community leader.  In addition, I have been a township director for the Butler County Fair Association for over 20 years and served as president of the fair for several years.  I have been Chairman of the volunteers for Kansas State Fair 4-H Rabbit Show Committee for several years, which involves running the Kansas State Fair 4-H rabbit show.  In addition I served for 9 years on the Kansas State 4-H Animal Science Curriculum Developmental Committee.  I was a member of the design team which produced rabbit, beef, and sheep project leader notebooks that are still widely used throughout Kansas and other states
.

     In addition to 4-H, I have been heavily involved in ARBA Chartered clubs at the local, state and national levels.  I am past president of the Sunflower RBA, located in the Wichita Area, and served in that capacity for many years.  I am also President of the Kansas State Rabbit Breeders Association and have been for over twelve years.  I am also serving my fourth term as a director for the American Satin Rabbit Breeders Association and have chaired their Audit and Budget Committees.  I served as the General Chairman of the Heartland Rabbit and Cavy Shows, Inc., hosts of the 2003 ARBA Convention.  I was also General Superintendent for the 2003 ARBA Convention.  I have helped plan and conduct several Judges Conferences in District 5. In 2001 I received the ARBA Distinguished Service Award.

     I currently have 4 years experience of being on the ARBA Board of Directors.  I believe that I can offer District 5 members a clear and unbiased voice on the ARBA Board.  The only agenda I have is to actively represent the membership and vote in the best interest of District 5 and the ARBA.    

Joel Marshall

     My name is Joel Marshall and I am asking to serve as your ARBA Director for District Five.  I have been a part of the rabbit industry all of my life; my parents starting raising rabbits long before I was born.  It has been my privilege to have been a part of the rabbit world for most of my life and I still come back for more.  I am very passionate about preserving this great hobby and our supporting organizations for the next generations.  Our association needs to be brought up to date with current technological advances.  While some may see the internet as a menace I can assure you that if properly utilized it can be used as a tool with fantastic results!   We need to increase automation in the ARBA office to help streamline operations and reduce payroll and postage expense.  We need to seek other forms of income/revenue to help ease some our budget concerns of the past few years.   Raising rabbits is a hobby, but behind this hobby is a strong business that has made our hobby what it is today.  The ARBA maintains a Registration System, Membership, Judges, Library, publishes the Domestic Rabbit Magazine, Standard of Perfection, and promotional materials that support rabbit and cavy fanciers.  Started in 1910 by a group of pioneers with enough foresight to realize the need and potential of the domestic rabbit in the United States, the ARBA is not for profit yet it needs to be run as a business to maintain its standing.  Although our goals are similar to the pioneers in 1910, the issues we face are changing.  Legislative matters, zoning, animal rights activists, and traditional views of animal use are changing.  Our dependence upon the sales of the ARBA Standard of Perfection as our most significant source of revenue needs to lessen as we develop additional sources of revenue.  I believe that we are in a critical moment as we move forward in the coming years if we are to continue to succeed in promoting responsible ownership and breeding of rabbits and cavies.  I am confident that my experiences with our hobby on a national, and international level, will help to not only represent the needs within our district but also those of the entire ARBA.  With progress brings change; my lifelong dedication to the ARBA gives me respect for where we have come from and commitment to get us where we need to be going.  Fiscal responsibility, diversifying our programs/materials, and better supporting our members are the forefront of the direction we need to be moving.

     I have experienced just about every aspect of our hobby from exhibiting in the youth and 4-H programs, judging at ARBA Conventions, to raising my children in our hobby.  I have not only competed in ARBA youth contests, I have also been an ARBA Royalty Judge and have graded a fair share of Management Contest forms.  There is a great need for our Youth Program to expand and to promote our hobby as I believe our youth are our lifeline to a better future.  The Royalty process should be streamlined to help ease the waiting time for the kids competing.   I am an active ARBA Registrar and Judge, and I have travelled to the four corners of this great country and have seen a lot of programs in these areas.  One I have seen is the youth involvement in local/state shows and  I would like to see more of this in our district.   These leadership opportunities are the best means by which we can mentor and invest our youth members;   there is a chance that they might be able to school us adults in a few areas!  I have not been in some of our southern and western corners but will pledge to you that I will maintain a consistent district wide presence.  I have been a part of many local and National Specialty clubs over the years, holding offices in about every aspect of these organizations.  My experience as a leader in these National Specialty Clubs offers perspective on a national level as well as displays my commitment to giving back to organizations I am passionate about.    

     Personally I am married to my wonderful wife Jackie who is just as passionate about her rabbits and the hobby in general as I am.  Together we have a daughter Alyssa.  Jackie has a son Colin and I have Kirk, Nichole and Kyle.  Together we live on a small farm in rural Illinois and run a 200 hole rabbitry.  Jackie and I raise Satins and Mini Satins, Alyssa raises better Mini Satins than us and she raises Mini Rex with Colin.  Over the years I have had about every breed in the book.  Professionally I am a Pharmaceutical Processor.  I help make life saving injectable therapies from Human Plasma for Hemophiliacs.  I have been a part of this business for 17 years.  Prior to this I was a Store Manager for Radio Shack.  In addition to breeding rabbits, I love to hunt, fish, and I enjoy buying/selling antiques and collectibles. 

     In closing I feel that it is important to remember that this is a hobby, however in order for us to enjoy our hobby we need to have a successful business.  As a Board of Director it is important to put friendships aside and do what is in the best interest of the membership you are representing and the organization.  We all work hard for our money and want to see that it is put to good use.  I am sure there are many of you that do not agree with everything that transpires within this organization, nor do I.  I choose not to dwell in negativity but approach these issues in a positive manner and resolve them to the best of my ability.  I am asking for your support so that we may achieve this vision.  Most importantly please return the ballot. Thank you for your time and see you at the Shows!

Terry Fender

     My name is Terry Fender, and I have declared my candidacy for ARBA District 8 Director. I am a lifelong resident of Ohio and have been a constant rabbit breeder and exhibitor since 1975. I joined the ARBA in 1976, received my registrar’s license in 1986, and my rabbit judge’s license in 1990. I hold a B.A. degree for majors in Business Management and Marketing and minors in Accounting and Computer Science.

     Over the years I have served in almost every elected office on the local and state level. Nationally, I am a former director and vice-president of the Silver Marten Rabbit Club. I have served as a committee member and chair for both state and national specialty clubs as well as for the ARBA. Currently, I am a member of the Judges’ Continuing Education Committee. I am a multi-term director for the Ohio State RBA. I also chair the annual judge’s conference and serve as the Youth Advisor.

     Though judging approximately 70 shows per year keeps me busy, I am still an active breeder and exhibitor. My rabbitry normally consists of around 300 head divided between Californians, Havanas, and Silver Martens.

      I offer many years of customer service experience which has taught me the importance of listening, sound decision making, and stress handling. My experience with a major feed manufacturer has added to my customer service abilities and also given me a better understanding of nutritional issues.

      Why do I want to be your ARBA District 8 Director? I grew up in this hobby and have loved it since day one. The direction our organization is traveling in concerns me, and I want to do everything possible to make sure future generations can enjoy it the way I have. Some mistakes have been made in the past, but we’re all human, and I’m not interested in pointing fingers. What does interest me is the present and future.

     Periodically I believe all organizations need an infusion of new blood to keep fresh ideas flowing. However, with the challenges we face now, experience is also a must. I believe I offer the needed experience from both inside and outside the rabbit world, while at the same time not being an ARBA insider.

     While no one individual can be everywhere, I believe it’s a must for your Director to be at the shows on a regular basis. I don’t think you can beat face-to-face communication. The District 8 website is another great means to keep members easily informed. Between myself, the state representatives, and the members, I’d hope to continually supply the webmaster with plenty of news items to keep the site current. Telephone calls, emails, and letters would need to be handled promptly. Yes, I believe that good communication can help prevent many problems and solve others before they become too serious.

     Both rabbit and cavy breeders should be treated with the same respect. And let’s not overlook our Canadian members. They are members just like we in the states.

     I want to work on your behalf to keep this hobby fun and family friendly. While I enjoy myself, I also have the serious side needed to get the job done. I’ve always listened to the members I represent and work to keep them informed. I’ve never been a yes man. Club finances must be closely watched just like we do in our own lives. As your Director, my plans would be to work in a positive manner with the entire board to see that your interests are well represented.

     For further information, please view my website at www.terryfender.com and my Facebook Fan Page at facebook.com/terryfenderD8. I’d also be happy to speak with you at the shows and respond to your other correspondence.

     Friends, I ask for your support and vote when the time arrives. Let’s work together to make the ARBA better than ever! Thank you very much. 

Claire Howman

I would like to      I would like to announce I am running for District 8 Director for the ARBA.  Currently I am the President of the Ohio State Rabbit Breeders Association and the equipment manager for the same.   As a past President of the Heart of Ohio Rabbit Club, Ohio Mini Lop Rabbit Club and currently of the OSRBA; with the help of others turned these clubs and from a negative or almost negative treasury to having positive operating cash flow.  It is important that the finances of the ARBA be closely monitored as our country’s economy continues to struggle.  I have also served as president of Medina Rabbit Club, District 8 Director of the Mini Lop Rabbit Club of America and Director in the Michigan Mini Lop Rabbit Club.   I had been a Mini Lop breeder for many years developing one of the top Mini Lop herds in the country.

      It is very important that a director has the knowledge of what it takes to set up an ARBA Convention and can work with the host clubs.  I am the equipment manager of the OSRBA and I understand the importance of the ARBA cooping assets.

      Working with the Ohio State RBA youth advisors, we have vastly improved the OSRBA youth programs. District 8 does have some outstanding youth programs that need to be worked into the ARBA.  The youth are our future and these programs are vital to providing our future leaders, registrars, judges, and exhibitors.

      I thank you for your votes and hope you take time to vote in the election of the ARBA officers.

Claire Howman

Ronn Mauck

     I am asking those of you who reside in District 8 to vote for me to continue serving you and the ARBA as your District 8 Director. I believe this year the people in District 8 have a clear choice in choosing the right person for the District Director's position. I firmly believe I'm the right person for this job. If I did not believe that, I wouldn't be asking for your vote and running for this position. I think my background and past Board experience are both assets in fulfilling the position as your District Director and doing the best possible job for each of you and the total membership of the A.R.B.A. You have the opportunity to elect someone with experience or selecting someone that has no prior experience in fulfilling the many responsibilities that go along with this position.

     I am a strong supporter of the A.R.B.A. Youth program. I have served as the Chairman of the A.R.B.A. Youth Ad-Hoc committee for the past two (2) years. We're making some major changes in the way some things are done in the Youth competitions at each National Convention beginning this year, and there will be several new faces on the Youth committee overseeing these activities starting this year. The Board is constantly looking at ways to improve how the various youth contests are handled at each annual convention. I am also Chairman of the A.R.B.A. Convention Liaison Committee which is charged with overseeing the many aspects of hosting the annual convention. Again, we are always striving to make the "Crown Jewel" event of the A.R.B.A. better for both the hosts and the exhibitors.

     During my time on the Board, I have always attempted to represent District 8 in a manner which best serves the members within my District as well as for the betterment of the total A.R.B.A. membership. I am certain that not everyone is satisfied with my past performance, but rest assured I have tried my best to do what I have believed was best for our members. I only ask, as you prepare to vote, to consider allowing me the opportunity to serve District 8 and the A.R.B.A. for another two years. Now that I'm retired, I should have a little more time to devote to being a better Director.

     For those who don't know me, new members etc., I have been an A.R.B.A. member since 1977.  I received my rabbit registrar's license in 1981 and my rabbit judge's license in 1984. I have also been involved as a 4-H volunteer for over 45 years. I believe the A.R.B.A. has made some real progress and needed changes during my tenure on the Board. There's still work to be done, and I hope you see fit to vote for me and allow me the chance to help make this great organization even better. Thank you for at least taking time to read this.  

Keith Rockwood
     

     My introduction into rabbits began as a 4-Her in the great state of Ohio. My first rabbit that got me addicted to the RABBIT HABIT was a Cal-NZ cross. After years of showing different breeds of rabbits in 4-H, I took a break for college and the “real-world experience”. It’s been a few years now since I got back into rabbits and it has been the best decision that I have ever made.

      Currently, I am a member of the ARBA, the Michigan State Rabbit Breeders Association, the Buckeye Polish Rabbit Fanciers, American Polish Rabbit Club as well as the Heartland Polish Rabbit Club. Presently, I am the District 4 Director for the American Polish Rabbit Club. While on the Board, we have had many difficult decisions come before us and I feel that I have represented the membership of my district to the fullest level possible. There have been times when issues have came up where I have to voice an opinion that might’ve not been the most popular option for the Board, but it was something that the majority of the membership in my District felt strongly about.

      I am very passionate about rabbits and enjoy spreading the same passion. Farm Bureau has been one organization that I have been able to promote the rabbit industry. In 2009, I was fortunate enough to be a county delegate at our State Annual meeting where I proposed a policy that got passed nearly unanimously by the State Delegation that stated that the organization would work against ordinance bans that some cities currently have in place. Our county has something called Rural Education Day (Project RED) where I teach rabbit care to 3^rd graders from around our county. The youth are our future and we need to make sure that we preserve the future of the ARBA.

      Some beliefs/goals and areas of concerns that I have heard about or personally witnessed is what is the driving factor of why I am running for Director. I am running for Director because I believe that the ARBA needs an every-day MEMBER like me, to represent each of you to represent the District 8 membership on the Board of Directors. While I am not a judge (yet anyways), I do attend shows throughout our District and I am willing to always receive phone calls and e-mails from members whenever they have a concern. When I am at shows, I like to listen to everyone’s concerns and though sometimes I might disagree with an idea but I vote for what the majority of my membership would ask of me.

      An area of concern that I will address immediately is the communication between Director and the membership. One way is to do updates to the District website, which has been sparsely updated in recent years. With the boom of internet use, this is a major communication tool for a Director to use to communicate within the District. As we all know, animal rights activists are impeding in our organization. Daily I listen to complaints from members not only within our District but from other Districts and to see the ARBA not doing much to help the membership makes me furious. The members pay a membership and I feel that it is the ARBA’s duty to assist their members with resources to fight off such organizations when they try to interfere with our rights to raise rabbits.

      In the upcoming election, I ask that you vote for me as Director as I feel that I am not only going to be a voice on the Board, but I’ll be YOUR voice. I seek no other satisfaction but to be able to represent those around me who share the same interest and passion about rabbits. I look forward to representing each and every member from youth to adult!!!! Thank you for letting me introduce myself to all of you.

Keith Rockwood