Transcript for the NAFA
Candidate Chat December 11th, 2017
2 hours ago
DanaHanson
Good evening. This is
Dana Hanson, your elections chair. I will serve as your moderator for this
evening's chat. With me is Kyle Mankes, another of
your elections committee members, to help keep us organized and following rules
for chat. With us this evening are six of our
candidates for the current election, including Jan Brule, Lisa Daum, Kathy Haney, Emma Mak,
Lynda Mantler and Aaron Robbins. John Forseth may join us while the chats are in progress. We'll
take opening statements from our candidates at this time.
2 hours ago
EmmaMak
Hi everyone! Thanks
for all those taking an interest in finding out about the candidates tonight.
As I said in the last chat, I’ve been doing database work and volunteering on
committees for many years for NAFA. NAFA Flyball is very important to me and my
family and I would love the opportunity to step up my contribution by serving
on the board.
2 hours ago
KyleMankes
I'm here to make sure
everyone behaves. I want a good clean fight.
2 hours ago
LyndaMantler
Hello everyone! I am
running for a board position as my one-year appointment to the board is nearing
an end. It was quite a good situation to be able to be a board member for one
year as I got to know my fellow board members and gain some understanding of
how the board works and all the duties that are involved. It has reaffirmed for
me that I am very keen to continue to serve the flyball community on the board
of directors of NAFA. Thanks for considering me.
2 hours ago
JanBrule
Hi everyone. Again thank you to Dana and Kyle for organizing the chat. I
have been involved in flyball for over 25 years and would like the opportunity
to pay back to the NAFA community by serving on the board.
2 hours ago
KATHYHANEY
Hi everyone. I am
happy to have this opportunity to let people outside of our regions 6 & 16
get to know me. I have been playing flyball for about 16 years now and want to
give our area a bigger voice in NAFA
2 hours ago
DanaHanson
A reminder while the
candidates continue their opening statements that chat rules require you
identify yourself completely and that you send questions to the me as moderator
for cueing. You may do that by starting your message: //pm DanaHanson
followed by your question.
2 hours ago
LisaDaum
Good Evening everyone.
I'm running for a position on the board because I believe I could bring a fresh
new look at things. I've been playin flyball now for
7 years and have become very acting with running things for our team. I have
been an Administrative Assistant for the U.S. Navy for 20 years and now work
for the U.S. Coast Guard in Contracting. I have a lot to offer the NAFA Board.
2 hours ago
AaronRobbins
Hi guys. Im running for the board to help bring in fresh ideas from
a trainers perspective. As someone who has been in
NAFA for 25 years I bring alot of experience. I have alot of experience in many aspects of NAFA as well as I get
the opportunity to travel alot and talk to everyone
from many different regions. I want to hear from all of you and hopefully bring
your ideas and concerns to the board. Im really
looking forward to making things better
2 hours ago
DanaHanson
Is there a service
area or pet project that interests you most (or a committee on which you’d most
like to serve)?
2 hours ago
EmmaMak
I would like to
continue to serve on the rules committee (I was a non-board member this year)
as I can contribute a lot in this area because of my access to data. I provided
several reports this year, which the committee found helpful. I also have
experience writing policies and procedures for an aerospace company. My pet
project of choice would be to continue work with a directive given by Neil
Flood to create an additional type of regional championships which would
include lower divisions. I’ve already started work on this on the rules
committee this past year and am eager to get that implemented. I also have
served many years on the election committee (although not this year), so I can
help out there. I’ll go wherever I’m needed.
2 hours ago
LyndaMantler
I will contribute
however I am asked. I am generous with my time and resources. I am also very
willing to learn. A quote I like: Leadership and learning are indispensable to each
other. As I mentioned on the last chat, my goal is to work where needed if I
should be a successful board candidate. Areas I feel I would be able to
contribute best are marketing and technology committees. As I am a detail
person, these would be areas of strength for me. I
would like to expand my duties on the board as roles become available.
2 hours ago
KATHYHANEY
I am interested in the
Rules Committee. I think that there are several ways in which we can improve
and update NAFA with a few rule changes. I have been successful in running my
own team in dealing with lots of different personalities and ideas and keeping
everything and everyone feeling like their opinions and ideas are worthy and
listened to
2 hours ago
LisaDaum
I believe that I would
like to be utilized in an manner that I would fit
best. I do believe that I would bring a fresh new way of looking at things if I
was a part of the Rules Committee.
2 hours ago
AaronRobbins
Im pretty willing to serve where ever the need
is. I think as training is getting better with access more access to techniques
NAFA needs to evolve and update to keep up. Equipment needs updating, rules
need to be created or tweaked and finances need to keep up with the demands. I
think staying current with other sports and organizations is key but also being
innovative with safety and technology
2 hours ago
JanBrule
One of my pet projects
would be to try to get more youth involved in flyball. We have a great
opportunity to help flyball grow as a sport by mentoring our youth. Possibly a
special division for youth. I would also like to work with the Judges
committee. Being an AKC Earthdog judge as well as a
4-H judge I think I could add a different perspective.
2 hours ago
DanaHanson
From Paula Johnson we
have the question: How do you propose to keep things transparent between the
board and membership?
2 hours ago
EmmaMak
Great question – I
would like to see a team of two or three board members created, that focuses on
communication to NAFA competitors. It would likely consist of the Chairman, the
ED and one or two other board members. They would go to meetings with an eye to
communicating a ‘big picture’ overview of what’s going on to NAFA competitors.
I feel this would make things clearer and give people more confidence in the
decisions that the board makes. I know that they do put a lot of effort into
taking different regions and ideas into consideration – this just needs to be
better communicated to the members.
2 hours ago
LisaDaum
I believe that keeping
things transparent in such a large organization as NAFA that we need open
communication, open records, open voting, open spending (or an itemized listing
of how money is being spent. I believe that this would definitely elevate a lot
of misunderstandings that have happened over the past few years. So that team
Captains and Judges would feel like they are a part of the changes and that
their input is being heard.
2 hours ago
LyndaMantler
Communication can
always be improved and should be improved. I have tried to do this regionally.
There are instances where one point of contact makes sense such as what
occurred recently on the NAFA Facebook page when there were questions regarding
the delegate vote. What I learned this year is that it is better to give too
much information too often than to not provide enough information. I did not
see anyone say the board gave them too much information. The more we
communicate the more we learn what the concerns are out there.
2 hours ago
DanaHanson
While others are
responding I’d like to remind you that ballots were sent out electronically
December 1. Club owners, regional directors, approved/supervising judges and
board members are eligible to vote. Please notify us at elections@flyball.org if you have not received your ballot.
hours ago
JanBrule
I feel that as a board
member you should be approachable, honest an open.
Any member should feel comfortable coming to you with any comments, concerns or
suggestions. I would like to make sure that the lines of communication stay
open between members and the board. The more that we are able to keep
communication open the better.
2 hours ago
KATHYHANEY
One of the problems we
have had out here is Reg. 6/16 is the feeling that our particular issues have
not been heard. We need to make sure that all issues and questions are
immediately addressed and answered. As a board member it would be important to
me to listen to everyone and give everyone's questions informed and complete
answers
2 hours ago
DanaHanson
From the cue: Our candidates come from different regions, different levels of
competitiveness and different levels of commitment to the sport. Describe
yourself in these terms and how your situation allows you to represent the
membership in general.
2 hours ago
AaronRobbins
Sorry internet cut out
... catching up
2 hours ago
DanaHanson
No problem Aaron.
2 hours ago
EmmaMak
I started out running
a miniature poodle (who is still in top ten pointed
min. poodles of all time lol) for many years. He was an Iron Dog and was so
much fun to run. I’ve run on Push This, Extreme Chaos, and I am now on Spring
Loaded. Spring Loaded is a fast, competitive team in Region 2, but also runs in
lower divisions. Our club has expanded rapidly lately as people come to see
that we are competitive but fun and fair to all members. We ran a very
successful tournament last year and are planning on two this year. I have
traveled to other regions and have communicated with many members from Texas to
Alaska, because of my committee work, and I have enjoyed getting different
perspectives and connecting with them.
2 hours ago
AaronRobbins
i think it comes down to a board members
character. You ask me a direct question and you will get the real answer. I
think having more delgate votes, transparent itemized
financials and simpler processes and procedures would really go along way in building trust and making sure NAFA is an open
book
2 hours ago
LisaDaum
Coming from Region 9
and I was in the process of working on my Judges Qualifications, I feel that I
have been mentored by some amazing people from Region 9 and 15. . Lerrie Jenkins, Jon Bescher, Geoff Brown, Amanda Brown, Kyle Mankes and many others. I have been the tournament director
for the two tournaments we host each year and have been active with my son
Jesse Sauvageau with SNAPS Fund and hope that over
the next few years we are able to provide Vet kits to more regions. Over the
past 7 years, I've become extremely active in many areas of flyball. When
attending tournaments I can be found helping out other
teams that are short handed and running open with
some amazing teams. I've trained 2 great danes that
have played flyball. Camo was my first dane to play
and he's currently ranked 4th for his breed. I am committed 100% to our sport!
2 hours ago
KATHYHANEY
As I stated earlier,
out here in Region 6/16 we have sometimes felt unheard. I plan to be a voice
for our regions and an ear for other regions who have their own issues and
questions. I have been committed to NAFA for 16 years, hosting 2 very well
attended tournaments a year and traveling far and wide to participate in
several tournaments with my team. Our team is very diverse in terms of dogs and
people. We have fast dogs, slower dogs and everything in between. I love
working with all the dogs and getting the best out of each of them and their
handlers. Whether the dog is a 3.6 second dog with a perfect turn or a 5.8
second dog with a safe, but not beautiful turn as long as they are having fun
and doing their best, I am happy. I think having this type of team and working
with dogs and people who are super competitive to just having a good time has helped
me to learn that everyone can have a valuable opinion and/or observation.
2 hours ago
KATHYHANEY
I am at a time in my
life which provides me with the opportunity to devote time and energy to making
NAFA the best that it can be, just as I do with my club.
2 hours ago
AaronRobbins
I started flyball when
i was 12 on Rocket Relay in region 2 when it first
began and basicallly grew up in the sport. We started
out smal club of mainly kidsl
and slower dogs but over time improved our training trying new ideas and
managed to make it to division 1. I know teach all types of dogs from the
family pet to championship divisions. Im my travels
teaching i hear the ins and outs of how clubs work
and the various goals they have with their teams. Ive
helped them strategize and problem solve in order to work together and help
them reach their goals as a coach.
2 hours ago
LyndaMantler
I hope I am
understanding your question correctly...I am from Region 7, BC, Oregon,
Washington. I feel I am very competitive. I have been racing flyball for 16
years and have competed in CanAm Invitationals. Ever
since my dog decided she loved the sport, I have been committed to flyball. It
is my number one activity outside of work and that is only because I still need
to work. I have travelled to other tournaments in other regions and have
friends in many different regions. I have an 11 year old
Weimaraner that is not that speedy and runs flyball for wiener treats. I love
to run her and am proud of her for every heat she runs. I also have a 6 year old whippet who is a fast flyball fiend. Very
different dogs. I love to run both and understand there needs to be room for
all types and breeds of dogs. I would be very sad if there were not. Over the
years I have been tournament director and tournament secretary which has given
me an understanding of what goes on and how much work is involved in hosting a
tournament. I have also been able to sub in for our Regional Director on several
occasions when he was not able to attend tournaments. All great learning
experiences that can only help to build a broad understanding of the many
facets of the game.
1 hour ago
JanBrule
I come from a region
that is very diverse. We have teams that run just for fun to teams that run for
the win. I have been in flyball for over 25 years and have been on those teams
that run for fun to the teams that run for the win. So
I feel that I personally have had a very wide range of experience with the
different levels of flyball. I have also served as tournament director for many
years which also gives me another view of flyball. I think having been involved
with different levels of flyball allows me to see member issues from several
viewpoints.
1 hour ago
DanaHanson
From the Cue: Have you
served on any boards or volunteered in the past with any similar organizations?
If so, what did you take away from that experience?
1 hour ago
EmmaMak
I have served on a
non-profit board before. I learned that it takes a spirit of mutual respect,
cooperation, and a willingness to stand up for what’s fair. You can’t just
bully your way through things. The NAFA Board was designed so that no one
person or club could dominate and that can be frustrating but it is for the
overall good. You also need to pull your weight and be willing to work hard.
Volunteering is just something I do – I’m one to step up and get things done –
in my career, for my kids, and for NAFA flyball.
1 hour ago
LyndaMantler
I have prior board
experience having served on non-profit flyball and community club boards and
various industry boards. I have served as secretary, treasurer, flyball
coordinator and director at large. I am currently the treasurer on the board of
directors of an insurance industry association that I have been on for five
years in the province of British Columbia. I understand the need for different
points of view and, also that once a vote has taken place, all board members
need to support and work towards the chosen outcome.
1 hour ago
SteveCorona
@DanaHanson sent to you in PM
1 hour ago
KATHYHANEY
My husband and I have
run our own company very successfully for over 30 years, I have been on the
board and served as treasurer of my sons' high school soccer booster, on the
board of my previous flyball club and the owner of my current flyball club for
the past 8+ years. Serving on these has taught me the need for diplomacy and
the need to listen to the concerns and opinions of others without judgement. I
think all of this has given me the skills to deal with people and issues in a
fair and competent manner.
1 hour ago
DanaHanson
Three questions remain
in the cue at this time.
1 hour ago
LisaDaum
I have been on several
boards. I am currently the Vice President of Tidewater Dog Performance club.
Which our flyball team is a part. We have meetings once a month and when
needed, things are voted on with all the club members to ensure that everyone's
voice is heard. I was the Vice President of Great Dane Rescue Alliance. Was one
of the founders of this non-profit organization. I have also been a board
member for our local SPCA. They know that I play flyball and when a potential
dog comes in that they see has a lot of drive they contact me to try and find
it a sports home. Being a part of all 3 organizations has provided me with the
skill sets to listen to others before decisions are made as well as brining
things to a vote when needed.
1 hour ago
JanBrule
I am very active in 4-H.
I currently serve on the Minnesota State 4-H Dog Project Development Committee.
I find it very enriching to work with our youth and to help them become good
citizens and ambassadors for 4-H and their community. While working with 4-Hers
is not without problems it is also very fulfilling. I also serve as the
Minnesota State Dog Show coordinator which has helped to teach me how to deal
with conflict, chaos and problem solving. People are very emotional when it
comes to kids, pets and parents. I have learned to be very diplomatic.
1 hour ago
AaronRobbins
I have worked 2 jobs
thru highschool and run my own company since I was 19
while in university. Ive never had the opportunity or
time to serve on a board until now aside from an obedience club when i was in my teens. I work well with others and have great
customer relation skills which is why i feel i can communicate well with the membership as well as
fellow board members. Im looking forward to learning
about the NAFA BOD and how they operate.
1 hour ago
DanaHanson
From Steve Corona: No
matter how passionate you may be about a certain issue, how have you in the
past dealt with a decision contrary to your own desires?
1 hour ago
EmmaMak
I have had to deal
with this while on the rules committee. With respect to the board, I feel that
once you’ve put your case forward and fought hard for what you feel is right,
you are obligated to accept a decision that has been arrived at by a group. As
Lynda Mantler said above, once a decision has been
made, a vote has taken place – all board members must support each other and
work towards the common goal. Trust and support are important parts of working
together as a team.
1 hour ago
LyndaMantler
Yes, I have had to
work on a project that was not something I wanted, but that is what will happen
when there are differing opinions as there needs to be on any board. It was a work related project that went in a direction I did not
agree with. I was the manager and needed to earnestly work towards the outcome
that had been decided on and not show that I did not agree with the decision,
meaning I had to focus on the positive aspects of the project. In the end, I
felt a sense of accomplishment for doing this and having my team also follow
and be change champions. It ended up being a rewarding experience that sparked
new interest in how we do things.
1 hour ago
DanaHanson
While our candidates
are responding, please remember that we have one more candidate chat scheduled
for Saturday, November 16, at 10 a.m. Central time.
1 hour ago
KATHYHANEY
I have recently and
back in the past had to deal with this. When you work on a board, club or even
run a business there is always a time when others have opinions which differ
from yours and/or solutions that you do not agree with. The only way to deal
with that is to let everyone voice their thoughts and then reach a majority
agreement. The same is true when a situation arises in which one authority
person decides what the answer will be. In order to get along and get anything
done you have to accept the decision with grace. In doing that I have found
that others are more willing to listen to what I have to say on any given
subject because they know I will listen to them and do the right thing.
1 hour ago
DanaHanson
I have two questions
in the cue at this time.
1 hour ago
AaronRobbins
Well really there isnt anything you can do aside from accept it. The time to
convey my concerns and educate others was before the decision was made. After
the fact its about working together to make a smooth
transition
1 hour ago
LisaDaum
I've just recently
dealt with this with our flyball club. The issue was discussed with all of the
board directors and we come up with a way to handle this particular issue. It
was brought up at our next club meeting and we actually post it in an online
survey so that everyone could vote not just the members in attendance of the
meeting. We were able to effectively correct the problem making most members
happy.
58 mins ago
JanBrule
I try very hard to
keep an open mind. Even if I didn't agree with the decision I would still try
to supportive. And if the opportunity arises to address the issue again I would
make sure that my concerns about the decision be voiced.
57 mins ago
DanaHanson
While Jan finished up
her response from the last question, Neil Flood pointed out that I'm a month
behind on my announcement of our last chat, which is Saturday -- got that part
right -- December 16 at 10 a.m. Central time.
57 mins ago
DanaHanson
From Steve Corona: How
would others describe your leadership style?
54 mins ago
AaronRobbins
Sensible and fair.
Ability to see all sides and make the best decision possible. Never impulsive
and always aware of the implications of my decisions
54 mins ago
LyndaMantler
I have had others
describe my leadership style as collaborative – I seek viewpoints of others. No
one person can come up with all the ideas or is in charge when you have a
committee. I like to have autonomy to do tasks on my own but I am not a control
freak. I would also say that I have a passion for the cause - flyball, respect
for others, and the thoughtful ability to consider issues.
51 mins ago
KATHYHANEY
I think they would
describe me as someone who knows what she wants, takes the time to explain what
is happening, the direction in which we are going and how we are going to get
there. Someone who listens to others and feels that everyone has value within
the club. I am strong enough to make the hard decisions and still willing to
change and go in a different direction if necessary. I try to treat everyone
with dignity and respect
50 mins ago
LisaDaum
My coworkers and team
mates would say that I'm a Participative Leader. Participative leadership
values the input of team members and peers, but the responsibility of making
the final decision rests with the participative leader. Participative
leadership boosts employee morale because employees make contributions to the
decision-making process. It causes them to feel as if their opinions matter.
When there is a need to make changes within the organization, the participative
leadership style helps ensure that all accept changes easily because they play
a role in the process. T
50 mins ago
EmmaMak
I believe they would
say that I was a hard worker, expecting more from myself than anyone else, and
that this inspired them to work towards the common goal with me. I believe they
would say I was open to changing my mind, and admitting if I was wrong. I also
believe they would say I had a democratic style – I know that you get better
results when you bring a group of people together with different viewpoints and
different strengths.
49 mins ago
JanBrule
I feel that am very
open and approachable. I'm pretty straight forward. I'm open to other
viewpoints. I try to make the best decisions for all involved. I'm not afraid
to make tough choices. I want people to feel comfortable coming to me with any
issue.
48 mins ago
DanaHanson
From Karan Coufu: How important do you feel relationships are between
you (the candidates) and the other teams in your region?
47 mins ago
DanaHanson
One question remains
in the cue at this time.
43 mins ago
LisaDaum
I feel that
relationships with teams in my region are very important. I also feel that it
is just as important to have relationships with other teams outside of your
region. It is important to know how all regions feel when it comes to voicing
an opinion on a matter and not just those within a single region. Iit should be what is best or all regions not just one.
42 mins ago
KATHYHANEY
Oh my goodness, the relationships between me and
the other teams are of the utmost importance. I am pretty secure in the knowledge
that most, if not all, of the clubs in our area have anywhere from a civil to a
super friendly relationship. We wire together and support each other as much as
possible. Otherwise we would never be able to have as much fun and keep this
wonderful sport of flyball continuing for years to ome
41 mins ago
EmmaMak
I feel I have a very,
good strong relationship with teams in my region. Some teams encouraged me to
run for the board as they know I am a fair-minded, level-headed person that
wants to serve my ‘flyball family’ as well as the rest of the NAFA community.
This is important, as I feel they will be comfortable approaching me with their
concerns and ideas, which are important to bring forward to the board. They
know I’m not looking to just promote the wants of my own team, rather that I
want NAFA flyball to be enjoyable and fair for everyone. This goal will not
only benefit my region, but all regions.
39 mins ago
KATHYHANEY
I would not be running
for the board of directors without the encouragement and support of the teams
in our region. I have a ton of gratitude towards everyone out here.
39 mins ago
AaronRobbins
Maintaining good
relationships with region teams is very important for the sport and keeping nafa alive in a region. As we have seen from previous
history
37 mins ago
LyndaMantler
I think the
relationships are very important. It may not be that everyone will agree and
that is fine. It is about constructive discussion. I believe I keep up good
relationships with other teams in our region. I will continue to work on this.
I am very pleased with the questions that have come up and discussions that I
have had with a lot of competitors in my region. There are regional differences
and knowing what they are will help me to express those opinions at board
meetings. A board member works for all regions, certainly, but I have been very
encouraged by the support to run for a board position by clubs in my region.
35 mins ago
DanaHanson
While Jan finishes up,
I'll float this next question from Neil Flood out to the candidates: In
business, I like to find out what type of research a candidate for employment
has done on my company and how it works. For the Board, what type of research
have you done in understanding how NAFA’s Board is organized and how it
operates?
35 mins ago
JanBrule
I feel that it's very
important to have a good relationship with the teams in my region. They may or
may not have issues that other regions have. Keeping in contact with teams in
my region and having a good relationship will help give me insight as a board
member. It is also important to get to know other regions and any issues they
have as well. As a board member I would support all regions.
34 mins ago
DanaHanson
One question remains
in the cue.
32 mins ago
AaronRobbins
I have spoke to former BOD members. Cant think of a better source then that.
29 mins ago
LyndaMantler
I do the same thing
when I interview job candidates. I talked to board members and read the
rulebook, and studied the NAFA website. My research has now translated into
experience after having served just about a year on the board. I do have a
better understanding but still things to learn.
28 mins ago
EmmaMak
I’ve had a working
relationship with the board, with my database work, and being on committees for
many years. I guess you could say that has been my research. I have had working
relationships with many past and present board members, I’ve prepared data
reports for board meetings and rules committee meetings. I have extensive
knowledge of the rules, back-end systems and relationships with NAFA staff as
well, and how all these parts work together to keep NAFA running.
28 mins ago
DanaHanson
Polls for the
2017/2018 NAFA Elections close Monday, January 22, 2018, at midnight CST. If
you have not received your ballot and are a club owner, regional director,
approved/supervising judge or board member who is entitled to vote, please
contact the elections committee at elections@flyball.org. If you've not had a chance to hear directly
from the candidates, join our next scheduled chat Saturday, December 16, at 10
a.m. CST.
26 mins ago
JanBrule
I follow the NAFA
website very closely. I have read all the minutes to the board meetings. I have
read the rules and regulations and follow the changes. I've read the nominees'
bio's. I have had several discussions with members, judges and board members
about NAFA policies and NAFA's future as well NAFA's competition.
25 mins ago
LisaDaum
Approximately 5 years
ago, I started following all of the transcripts and board meeting minutes so
that I could stay abreast of everything going on in NAFA and with the board. I
like to be in the know and what rule changes or additional information that is
up and coming. I've had discussions with current board members as well as
judges as to what is to be expected if elected as a board member and fell that
I embody all of the traits that you are looking for to enhance the board of
directors.
24 mins ago
KATHYHANEY
I also read over the rule
book. I have had some dealing with former board members through my tournament
director duties and personally. I have talked to them and feel that I have a
pretty good handle on how to work on a board and bring a good set of skills on
working with others.
22 mins ago
DanaHanson
The last question
before closing comments from our candidates comes from the Cue: What do you
believe is the most important issue NAFA faces today?
21 mins ago
EmmaMak
The most urgent issue
facing NAFA flyball continues to be keeping membership and participation up. I
think the open class changes will help this way. Offsetting the move away from
entering regular and multibreed with an additional type of regional
championship will help too. The board needs people that are strongly committed
to NAFA flyball succeeding.
20 mins ago
KATHYHANEY
I think the most
important issue facing NAFA is keeping up with the changing and evolving times.
The way flyball is played now, with the speed of. the dogs and knowlwedge
19 mins ago
KATHYHANEY
Obviously wasn't done
with that thought.
18 mins ago
JanBrule
I think one of the
biggest issues for NAFA is membership/recruitment. We need to find a way to
keep the members we have and to recruit more members. Some of the recent
changes I think have helped but we still need to work on other ideas.
17 mins ago
AaronRobbins
The single most
important issue is that NAFA faces today is to keep NAFA thriving relevant and
innovative to keep interest of participants as a number 1 sport for dogs
16 mins ago
EmmaMak
Evolving the sport is
important too, but it must be done in a carefully considered way, so that NAFA
is not just catering to a few fast teams constantly with knee-jerk reactions.
15 mins ago
KATHYHANEY
The way flyball is
played today with the speed of the dogs and knowledge of physical abilities and
limitations of the dogs several things need to change. The way points are
earned, measuring and jump height limits have not changed much since flyball
began. All of this needs to be addressed in a manner that will support growth
in NAFA
15 mins ago
LyndaMantler
Because of all the
controversy that has been the topic of so much discussion, I have felt that the
measuring/height dog issue was the most important issue. The board also spent a
great deal of time working on that this year. It surely is important to keep
membership up and once this issue has been completely addressed I think it will
go a long way towards having loyal membership that can continue to grow.
14 mins ago
AaronRobbins
Im actually in the
middle of a dog in labor and need to go but I want to thank everyone for this
opportunity and am looking forward to the next chat! Bye for now
14 mins ago
LisaDaum
I believe that the
biggest issue NAFA is facing is keeping flyball growing. Our Junior handlers
are our future as well as attracting new potential flyballers
and their dogs. I'm a hugh advocate of promoting our
sport with people that have never heard of it.
13 mins ago
EmmaMak
Yes, I need to get
kids to bed! It's been over 2 hours
13 mins ago
DanaHanson
Candidates please
prepare your closing comments.
13 mins ago
LyndaMantler
Thank you to those
that provided this forum for the candidate discussion. It was great to see such
a high level of interest in the chat tonight!
We are lucky to have so many worthy candidates willing to step up and take on
BOD duties.
13 mins ago
EmmaMak
Wow – that was long 😊. Thank you very much to NAFA and those
participating, both those posing the great questions and my fellow candidates.
Delegates have a lot of great people to choose from. When voting, I hope that
NAFA competitors will look to those that have the skills needed to sit down at
a board meeting with eight other people to work out the best solutions for NAFA
flyball and those that have demonstrated their willingness to work hard and get
things done. Thanks for considering me for a position on the board. Have a good
night, everyone!
8 mins ago
LisaDaum
Just wanted to thank
all of you for your time and being able to see everyone's point of view on each
question asked. I would find it an honor to be elected into a position of the
board and moving our sport further into the future. I am looking forward to the
next chat session and answering future questions.
8 mins ago
JanBrule
Thank you everyone! I
enjoy talking with all the candidates. I am truly honored to be nominated! I
think that I could bring a different point of view to the Board and hope for
the opportunity to do so.
6 mins ago
DanaHanson
Thanks to all who
participated in tonight's chat and best of luck to all of our candidates.
3 mins ago
KyleMankes
Good night.