SHCA Annual Meeting
Bayfront Convention Center, Erie ,PA
Thursday October 16, 2025, 7:00 PM ET

 

Attendance:
In Person:  Alabama: Delinda Davis, Jim Davis, Patty Van Sicklen; Alaska: Jessica Breinholt, Wayne Curtis, John Linnehan, Carol Nash, Mary Schonberger, Mara Snyder; California: Donna Beckman, Kathleen Henderson, Randee McQueen, Yelena Rosenbaum, Rick Wee, Nancy Sumida; Colorado: Kathleen Currey, Julie Faden, Doug Jones Sheri Wright; Connecticut: Rebecca Cao, Daniel DeWoskin, Suzanne McDougall, Darleen Plourde; Georgia: Elizabeth DeMartino; Illinois: Katherine Kaminski, Carol Preble, Theresa Przybylski; Kansas: Stephanie Barnhill, Kaylee Cloud, Erin Criqui, Tedi Devlin, Karen Shaner, Jan Sighler;  Louisiana: Karla Wall; Maryland: Joseph Fitzgerald, Debra Fitzgerald, Tracy Smith, Gale Tench; Massachusetts: Sheila Blanker, Ryan Blanker, Roberta Davies; Michigan: Barbara Horsey, Sarah Hubbach, Sarah Kujawa, Anne Palmer, Brian Palmer; Missouri: Sandy BeCraft, Julie Combs, Vicki Limbaugh; New Hampshire: Nathaniel Adams, Ann Mariah Cook, George Cook, Kristen Neufelder; New Jersey: Rose Bucci, Dominic Di Balsi, Diane Swierzbin, Joann Zelasko; New Mexico: Kendra Ireton, Wolf Warren; New York: Rick Casper, Bob Eisele, Dawn Eisele, Pamela Kanzler, Linda Lehman, Melinda Lehman, JoLyn Stresing, Patricia Tetrault; North Carolina: Sheila Goffe; Rhode Island: Johanna Coutu DuWaldt; South Carolina: Ricki Silveria; Ohio: Charles Crabb, Kathryn Crabb, Demi Flowers-Blevins, Mary Groth, Olivia Harvey, Vern Harvey, Shelley Kacenski; Pennsylvania: Laura Anderson, Romil Limson, Michelle O’Brien, Jeanne Stiner, Megan Terella; Tennessee: Tami Bradford, Marie Ann Falconer, Kathleen Karcher, Marti Rhyne, Kimberly Runyan, Jeanette Saproni; Texas: Joanne Barnes, Bruce Barnes, Elizabeth Chism, Jason Chism, Angie Luna, Brandie Perkins; Utah: Lenore Demmin; Vermont: Melissa Mount; Virginia: Ashlee Pezzuto, Sandrina Phipps, Laurie Sipe; Wisconsin: Delbert Thacker; Foreign: Kim LeBlanc.

 Zoom: Sheryl Phelps, Wendy Willhauck, Paul Willhauck, Lisa Payne, Sherri Del Pozo, Jill Armentrout, Michelle Bigelow, Lynn Loner, Kelli Clark, Jeff Anclam, Virginia Hartronft, Tony Kingsley, Patti Abadie, Jan Harring, Len Harring, Brenda Richardson, Carl Tan, Laurissa Schmidt, Celine Tews, Patty Richards, Tom Schonberger, John Neuschaefer, Kandy Tigerman, Bill Steadman, Joy Steadman, Sheila Kanzler, Frank Napoli, Beth McClure, Kathy Miyoshi, Elinor Abrell, Anne Hennessey, Debbie Studwell, Kim Sullivan, Bonnie Finelli, Sharon Wendelgass, Michael Dagley, Noel Dagley, Annie Oster, Sandy Jessop, Briana Klecker, Robert Thomas, Lisa De Gennaro, Amanda Johnson, Terri Rendon, Ingrid Bower, Brenda Hinkemeyer, Sue Lavin, Eileen Gacke, Sue Maggio, Deb Kreider, Mary Strubbe, Kimberly Runyan, Bonnie Stames, Athena Tundra, Katie Sample, Sandy Reitsma

 Guests: Marisa Brake, Tom Nutting, Kara Hickey, Will Criqui, Barb Laule, Jess Moore, Robin Matthews, Mercedes Sabatini, Kim Bertrand, Jim Mount, Heather Hanna, Suzie Schwalbach, David Bradfor, Robyn Januszcewski, Deboarh Cruz, Tetiana Karpenko 

Zoom Guest: Ana Genz

 Meeting called to order by President Cook at 7:00 PM

Motion (Tench/Barnes) Move to Approve Minutes from last 2025 Annual Meeting
Passed
Motion (Curtis/Groth) Move to take items out of order:
Passed

President Cook addressed the membership
President Cook welcomed attendees to the 2025 Annual Meeting and expressed appreciation to Stephanie Barnhill and all volunteers for their work on the Erie Specialty. Reflecting on the conclusion of a two-year term, the President reviewed progress and challenges related to four key platform objectives:

  • Financial Health: The SHCA achieved strong financial stability, as reflected in upcoming reports from the Treasurer and Investment Committee. Future boards were urged to safeguard and manage these resources carefully.

  • Membership Engagement: Membership activity and enthusiasm have improved, though committee participation remains limited, resulting in a heavier workload for the Board. The President emphasized the need to counter the view that SHCA is “Board-driven” and encouraged civility and collaboration under the revised AKC Code of Sportsmanship.

  • Health of the Breed: The Siberian Husky remains a generally healthy breed, with ongoing initiatives such as the addition of SPS/SHPN1 testing to the CHIC panel and continued research into glaucoma and epilepsy. The President noted global efforts to address genetic issues and encouraged openness to scientific advances.

  • Board Transparency: Communication has expanded through newsletters, social media, and livestreaming, yet his concerns persist about limited member input and Board control. He commented on recent election communication restrictions and urged greater transparency and open, interactive dialogue between the membership and the Board.

The President concluded by reaffirming the importance of continued progress in openness, scientific responsibility, and active member engagement.

Cook then introduced the newly elected board:
President: Stephanie Barnhill
First Vice President: Dawn Eisele
Second Vice President: Sheri Wright
Recording Secretary: Mary Groth
Corresponding Secretary: Delbert Thacker
Treasurer: Delinda Davis
Directors: Joanne Barnes, Jessica Breinholt, Wayne Curtis, Lenore Demmin, Pam Kanzler, Anne Palmer, Megan Terella.
And stated in accordance with Roberts Rules of Order Section 59:55:12, I ceremoniously pass the gavel to Stephanie Barnhill and excuse myself from the dais. I will submit text for upcoming Bulletin. (full address is in this Bulletin)

President Stephanie Barnhill Addressed the membership
President Barnhill, acknowledged the challenges and accomplishments of the past two years and expressed gratitude to outgoing President Cook for his leadership, dedication, and service to SHCA. On behalf of the Board, she presented a gift of a stained-glass memento in appreciation.
Barnhill also recognized outgoing Board member Julie Combs for her many years of service and contributions, both as a director and as the Trust Liaison, noting the organization’s deep appreciation. Combs was also given a stained-glass memento.

Barnhill expressed strong support for Cook’s outgoing remarks, emphasizing that while much progress has been made, there remains important work ahead. She voiced confidence in the new Board’s commitment and capability to move SHCA forward over the next two years.

Officer Reports:
Recording Secretary Report: Groth shared that Committee Reports which had been received would be published in the Bulletin, chairs who had asked to speak were listed on the agenda.
Groth went on to report that a large percentage of members had signed the agreement to vote and conduct club business electronically. The revised Code of Ethics has been passed, and all members will be required to sign the new code. Members who have consented to electronic participation will complete this electronically; others will do so using paper and U.S. mail. Members retain the option to opt out of electronic communication and receive paper correspondence at any time.
Groth read the ElectionBuddy audit report. Both the audit and election report will be published in the Bulletin. Groth noted the process of notifying the candidates prior to notifying the membership of the results.
Corresponding Secretary Report: Thacker stated his report was submitted
Treasurer Report: Davis shared the financial reports presented cover the fiscal year beginning June 1, 2024, through May 31, 2025.
At the close of the fiscal year, the club’s unrestricted assets totaled just over $34,000. The money market account held approximately $75,000, which includes restricted funds designated for specific purposes such as the All-Breed Agility Trial and the CHIC DNA Fund. These funds are not part of general operating expenses.
The club also maintains four restricted investment accounts with JP Morgan, overseen by the Investment Committee. Total assets have increased from $582,000 at the end of fiscal 2024 to approximately $775,000.
Income and Operations:

  • Dues increased this year from $25 to $45 per member, which has helped general operations achieve a near break-even balance.

  • Donations and bequests over the past few years have been significant, with most transferred into investment accounts and a portion kept available for operating needs.

  • Operating expenses remain consistent with last year’s levels.

Specialty and Event Accounts:

  • The All-Breed Agility Trial in Chicago continues to fund companion and performance events. Funds are transferred from the designated agility account as needed to support these activities at the National Specialty.

  • This year’s National Specialty looks financially strong, with lower expenses and additional novelty income expected once all proceeds are received.

Budget Outlook:
The upcoming fiscal year’s operating budget (excluding Specialty activities) projects a net income of roughly $11,000.
Members are encouraged to review detailed financial statements in the bulletin. Questions may be directed to the Treasurer by email or phone.
Davis noted that the club’s dues and most financial transactions are now handled electronically. She emphasized the importance of maintaining accurate email addresses, as invoices and reminders are sent through QuickBooks. For members whose email systems do not accept automated invoices, alternate communication methods are used.
Members experiencing difficulties with electronic invoicing or payments are encouraged to reach out directly by phone or email for assistance. Davis expressed appreciation for everyone’s cooperation as the club continues transitioning further into digital recordkeeping and communications.
Club member Bob Eisele, serving on the Audit Committee, commended Delinda Davis for her excellent work as Treasurer and invited the membership to recognize her efforts. The members responded with a standing ovation.

Committee Reports:
Junior Showmanship: Ryan Blanker
Blanker thanked Karen Shaner for her excellent work coordinating the Top 20 for Juniors, noting that she created individual invitations for all participating juniors at the previous show.
Blanker announced the new AKC President's Sportsmanship Award, which recognizes junior handlers who exemplify the core values of the AKC Code of Sportsmanship. Any person may nominate a junior who has competed in any AKC sport or event (conformation, agility, performance, etc.) by submitting a nomination form by November 1st. The form requires the nominee's parent or guardian email and a description (up to 500 words) of the junior's involvement in the sport. There is no limit to the number of nominations. Information has been shared on the Junior Handlers Facebook page and will be distributed via email to members.

Health and Genetics: Sheila Blanker
(CHIC/SPS1/SHPN1 DNA Testing Report)
The clinic held today was extremely successful. 44 dogs were tested for SPS1/SHPN1, with additional test kits distributed for at-home testing. 85 dogs were banked for CHIC DNA banking. Blanker recognized and thanked the volunteer team: Leanne Mitchell, Jen Boxville, Ryan Blanker, Kara Hickey, and Barb Horsey for their exceptional teamwork.
She noted discounted SPS1/SHPN1 testing will remain available until November 20th (payment deadline; samples may be submitted after that date). Additional home test kits are available while supplies are available. International members may participate, as samples can be mailed because the sample is not blood.
Health and Genetics Report
Blanker shared, the Board tasked the Genetics Committee with reviewing the research paper "Comparative Population Genetics in Our Sled Dogs Reveals a Deep Complex History." To provide an unbiased report, the Committee requested and received Board approval to consult with an outside expert. The consultant has completed their review, and the Committee will submit their full report to the Board within the next month.

Dryland Program Update: Jessica Breinholt
At last year's in-person board meeting, Breinholt was tasked with forming a committee to review SHCA's existing working programs with particular attention to the growing interest in a competitive dryland degree. Under this mandate, a Dryland Title Development Subcommittee was established and began its work in early 2025. After a summer of dedicated effort by subcommittee members Laura Anderson (chair), Hannah Brown, Lisa DiGennaro, Demi Flowers, Ron Gagne, Christy Robertson, and Birgit Von Pelser, the committee presented their proposal for a Dryland Performance Dog degree to the Working Programs Chair and SHCA Board in August. The program was finalized and approved by board vote at the September meeting, making it available for the 2025-2026 season, with information now accessible on the SHCA website. Breinholt wanted to answer some questions she had heard regarding specialty show classes. She stated moving forward, the committee will review specialty sled dog class requirements to determine appropriate recognition for dryland title holders at specialty events and is seeking volunteers for this subcommittee work.
Important program details include that title eligibility begins with the 2025-2026 racing season only (not retroactive to previous seasons), specialty class recognition is under development, and AKC registration recognition of the dryland title will be addressed by the board in the future.

There was a discussion with members at the meeting regarding the distinction between sled dog racing and dryland.
AKC Delegate Ann Cook shared that she has repeatedly tried to find a way for sled dog titles to become AKC-recognized titles rather than just club-recognized ones. She explained that the AKC previously turned down sled dog titles because sled dog racing on snow is not available to everyone. However, she believes the new dryland program may provide a solution since dryland activities are available nationwide. She acknowledged the challenge of working with the AKC on this issue but stated she will be pushing for AKC title recognition over the next year and asked for support in this effort.
There were questions regarding retroactive applications for the new title and why they decided not to allow previously awarded dogs with certificates to use those miles. Breinholt shared there was a lot of discussion, but they decided to draw the line moving forward so there would be no question.

Investment Committee: George Cook.
Cook shared, the Investment Committee, reports strong performance with portfolio assets growing from $645,000 to $683,000, representing a 6% gain in eight months. The committee successfully transitioned member bequests into a diversified portfolio managed by JP Morgan Chase, using a conservative 65/35 fixed income-to-equity strategy that protected assets during market volatility.
Committee Members: George Cook (chair), Bob Eisele, Ruth Christopher, Donna Beckman, Delinda Davis (Ex-Officio Treasurer).
Investment Strategy: Asset Allocation: 65% fixed income/35% equities.
Despite administrative delays with JP Morgan (three advisor changes in four months), the portfolio was fully invested by February 2025. The delays allowed time to develop a comprehensive Investment Policy Statement.
Next Steps: 

  • Finalize Investment Policy Statement sign-off (consensus reached)

  • Board to develop policy statement for investment income utilization

  • Continue monitoring and rebalancing per allocation strategy

Conclusion: The conservative 65/35 allocation strategy has successfully balanced capital preservation with growth. The portfolio is well-positioned to provide long-term benefits to SHCA while honoring the generous legacies of Roger Shepard and Suzanne Lyles.
There was discussion regarding usage of investments, Cook shared that we are currently supporting the Roger Shepard medal program for Sled Dog Races and recently the SHCA has sponsored the IFSS Dryland World Championships in Wisconsin.
It was noted that the Investment Committee reports to the board monthly and SHCA will be receiving quarterly insight reports.
There was a question regarding the amount of the IFSS sponsorship, it was shared that it was a $5000 sponsorship and SHCA received recognition in press releases, on the website, a booth. Look for an article on the IFSS Championships in an upcoming Newsletter.
John Linnehan asked a question regarding JP Morgan fees; Cook explained the account uses a wrap fee structure at 1.15% annually with no transaction fees.

SHCA Trust Report: Bruce Barnes and Donna Beckman shared information
The SHCA Trust announced a major achievement: rescue grant spending has tripled over the past 12 months compared to the previous year. This increase was made possible through bequests, generous donations, and strategic program changes. The Trust replaced traditional spay-neuter grants with more comprehensive intake grants that cover spay-neuter, shots, and other essential services. They also restarted administrative grants to help new rescue organizations cover startup costs like printers and basic operational expenses.
The Trust operates across three branches—rescue, health, and education—but functions as a funding organization rather than conducting programs directly. While no major health initiatives were funded this past year, the Trust maintains reserves for significant projects like their previous DNA mapping of the Siberian Husky genome. For education, they provide small grants supporting judges' education programs (covering travel expenses for dogs and handlers) and printed educational materials. The Trust emphasized their philosophy of long-term sustainability over spending all funds immediately, ensuring they can continue benefiting the breed indefinitely.
It was noted that the Annual Meeting coincided with The Trust's 20th anniversary and they thanked donors whose support made the tripled rescue funding possible. As a public charity, the Trust's Tax Form 990 is available to anyone who requests it from the secretary.

Old Business
SHCA Service Awards:
Newsletter Distribution: Patti Abadie
Annual Directory: Karen Knaut
Exceptional Dedication to Annual Directory: Bill Steadman
Judges Selection Committee: Tami Bradford (Chair), Ricki Silveria, Jeanette Saproni

Stephanie Barnhill thanked the 2025 SHCA National Committee members and noted this has been two years of hard work; she is very proud of the team and the accomplishments made the past week.

New Business
New Life Member Presentation: Barb Horsey
Horsey announced Sandy Jessop as the newest Lifetime Honorary Member of the Siberian Husky Club of America (SHCA); and shared her history and accolades below.

Sandy's journey with Siberian Huskies began in the early 1970s when she purchased a black and white, brown-eyed Siberian Husky. This initial connection sparked a lifelong dedication to the breed. She co-bred a notable champion known as "Magic", also black and white with brown eyes, co-owned with Marilyn and Jim Butler. Sandy joined the SHCA in 1987 after living in New York City for over 30 years, having originally immigrated from Mississippi.

After more than three decades in New York, Sandy and her husband Joe moved south to enjoy retirement. However, her dedication to Siberian Huskies continued through her involvement with the Siberian Husky Club of Middle Tennessee, where she served as treasurer and show chair for numerous years.

Sandy's contributions to the SHCA were extensive and impactful:
Leadership Positions:

  • Served on the board for over 14 years in multiple positions

  • Served as SHCA President

  • Participated in numerous committees including the Constitution and Standing Rules Review Committee, Newsletter Distribution Committee, and Peggy Grant Memorial Service Award Committee

Key Achievements:

  • Instrumental in publishing the full-colored, illustrated breed standard

  • Developed the membership annual rocker awards program (recognizing 25, 35, and 40-year members)

  • Created the associate membership program, allowing those who didn't qualify for regular membership to participate in the SHCA community

  • Chaired the 2009 National Specialty in Chattanooga, Tennessee

  • Served as administrative assistant for the 75th anniversary specialty in 2013

  • Guided the Ethics Review Committee chaired by Dr. Sheila Blanker

Sandy maintained open communication with all honorary life members and served as a vital connection between the SHCA and homebound members. Throughout her service, she consistently led with an objective, zero personal agenda approach, prioritizing the breed and organization above all else.

This recognition celebrates decades of selfless service, leadership, and unwavering dedication to the Siberian Husky breed and the SHCA community.

Barnhill called for additional New Business
Ann Cook distributed a handout and asked members to contribute toward the purchase of a painting to be donated to the Museum of the Dog. The Museum is seeking to acquire a piece by Colorado artist Beryl Goodnight.

Due to Technical Difficulties with the 2026 National presentation
Rebecca Cao shared the new Siberian Pedigree website https://siberianigloo.com/. She shared that they had imported the pawvillage database.


SHCA 2026 National Specialty (Oct 26-31, 2026) - Newark, OH: Charles Crabb Show Chairperson - Newark, OH
It is at the Cherry Valley Hotel and Ohio Event Center - .https://www.cherryvalleyhotel.com/
 Rooms may be booked starting Nov 1, 2025.
RV - dry camping on-site for 15-20 RVs; there are a number of local camp grounds
SHCA National Conformation Judges: Breed - Donna Beckman; Dogs - Jessica Breinholt; Bitches - Kim LeBlanc
Puppy/Veteran Sweepstakes - Karen Mammano; Sled Dog Sweepstakes - Dominic DiBalsi
Pre-National - Cindy Stansell
Siberian Husky Club of Greater Cleveland Pre Specialty - Vicki Allenbrand
Obedience, Rally, and Agility are still to be named.


Breeder/Exhibitor Performance and Enthusiast Mentorship Program. - Sheri Wright
Sheri Wright shared a new program which is part of Breeder/Fancier/Exhibitor Education. Wright is looking for individuals to sign up to be mentors prior to adding it to the public site.


Motion to Adjourn 8:58 PM ET Thacker/Curtis

Respectfully submitted,

Mary Groth
Recording Secretary


Amend 11/12 add Nancy Sumida

Amend 11/16 add Sandy Reitsma and Ana Genz