Don Ahrens ~ Vice President  ~  Term Ends 12/31/09 Not Re-running

I'm in my 4th year of being in the Jack world.  When we got Madison about 5 yrs ago I had my heart set on a yellow lab or golden retriever.  Melanie had other ideas.  And she was intended to be just a house pet (Maddy, not Melanie!).  When we learned about the Club and activities it only took her first puppy championship to hook us!  Such a loving little girl, she has wrapped her paws around my heart and the thoughts of a big dog are long gone.

Several recreational vehicles and tons of equipment later, I've become entrenched in the process.  I enjoy watching the 'newbies' get excited, just the way I did, when their little couch potato chases the lure for the first time.  The SSJRTC is one of the finest Jack clubs I've encountered. 

I'm proud of our Club and the accomplishments of our members and strong leadership.  And I look forward to playing an even larger role in keeping it a first-rate JRT Club!

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Rick Bailey ~ Director  ~  Running for Vice President

Two and a half years ago Patsy and I got our first Jack Russell, Jumper. In an effort to learn more about our little dog we found the SSJRTC. When we attended our first fun day we had no idea that we were making a life altering decision. We were just going to check it out! You all know the rest of the story.

What you don’t know is what an absolutely fantastic job you have all done with your club and what it means to so many people and their dogs. I have never had the opportunity to be involved with such a great bunch of people. The friendships and camaraderie that is shared with all and the excitement and challenges for the dogs! Coupled with the outdoors and getting off the couch and away from the daily grind of our lives is almost indescribable. You have to be a part of it to understand it.

It is my desire to become a working part of this club and to serve in whatever fashion necessary to ensure it’s continued success. I would like to assist in the expansion of the youth program so that we can strengthen the foundation of our club for years to come. I will work for the club and always in the best interest of the club and I will serve to protect the heritage and the integrity of the SSJRTC and it’s members so that it can continue to serve the Jack Russell Terrier.

Jose' Esteves ~ Director  ~  Re-running for Director

 

  My name is Jose Esteves.  I have been involved with Jack Russell’s for about 7 years.  I took an interest in the breed when I met Jackie and it wasn’t soon after that I got my first JRT Comet.  Oh the joy and entertainment he has brought me.  It wasn’t soon after that I attended my first JRT trial which was at RA Terriers.  What an eye opener that was.  I have been hooked ever since.  I reside in Levy County, which is home to Russell Mania Events at Horseman’s Park.

 

I have had the opportunity to hunt in the past with my Jacks.  What a joy to see these feisty terriers do what they love and were bred to do.  I wish I had the opportunity to be able to hunt with the Jacks more. 

 

I believe an active and involved club is an asset to every JRT owner.  As a board member, I will continue to help when needed as I have done since becoming a member.  The Sunshine State trials are not only the smoothest running trials I have attended, but have met new friends and JRT family. I love being part of such a professional club and hope to continue server as a Board of Director.

 

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Melanie Heckler ~ Director ~  Term ends 12/31/2010

 

2009 Yuletide Trial at DiBo's mark my sixth year with SSJRTC and the completion of my third year on the board.  Hard to believe so much time has passed and so many friends and memories have been collected. 

 

I really enjoy playing with our babies at SSJRTC events and socializing with our friends.  I also enjoy working on the club website and NEWS UPDATES as a way to foster communication among the membership.  It's very rewarding to work with a really great group of people on the board planning and arranging club activities.

 

I have had dogs all my life but have never enjoyed them this much!

 

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Ray Higgs ~ Director  ~  Term ends 12/31/2010

 

Hi!  My name is Ray Higgs.  We have had Jacks in our family for twenty years and  I have been competing in the JRTCA for about ten years.  It was all over for us after the first race-- the dogs loved it and so did I!  We also participate in a lot of other events with our dogs.

 

I've been on the Sunshine State JRTC board of directors for seven years and my goal is to keep the club growing as it has during that time.  I am on the board to serve, help and teach club members.  I really enjoy helping new people starting out with their first Jacks and joining our club.  When you see a new member win their first event-- the smile on their face-- its a feeling I can't describe. 

 

See you at the trials and have fun!

 

Jason Jones ~ Director  ~  Re-running for Director

I have been a member of SSJRTC for two years now.  I was first introduced to the club when my wife and I purchased our first Jack Russell, Lexie.  Lorri and I both love working with dogs and attended a few Florida trials in 2005.  Several very nice SSJRTC members took us under their wings and guided us from day one to where we are today.  We have established numerous close friendships and enjoy the time with our “dog family,” because it gives us an opportunity to unwind from our normal busy lives. 

I plan to continue to support this Florida club to make it the most successful club that represents the JRTCA.  I feel the SSJRTC is a close knit group that displays a positive influence to our youth from all over Florida.  I will work in whatever area is needed to keep this club headed in the right direction and to make Florida trials the most desired trials of all.  I look forward to working with and learning from each and every member of our club. 

David McKinney ~ Director  ~  Term ends 12/31/09  ~  Not re-running

My name is David McKinney.  My wife Lisa and I have had Jack Russells since 1989.  Our first terrier, Emmy Lou, introduced us to the world of these wonderful dogs and we soon started searching for outlets for her endless energy.  We have been involved with the Gold Coast Terrier Network, currently as chairman, almost as long and have participated in SSJRTC events as long as the club has been around.

We currently have 9 terriers. All but one of them are descendants of Emmy Lou.  The one that's not, Judy, was a gift from Brenda Swanson.  She is now 13 years old and my personal best friend who has been going to work with me since she was a pup.

I look forward to helping Sunshine State go into the future as the strong club it is now.

Karen Muth  ~   Running for Director 

I can't believe I'm a "mom" of a veteran-- I don't feel that old!  I met my Matty at five days old and I was in love.  I took her home at eight weeks and I was leaving my breeders (Sharon and Mike Roberts, now in Colorado) asked if I was going to race her.  I had no clue what they were talking about.  Matty "ran" in her race at six months-- she ran the wrong way!  Luckily she is a quick study and races with all her heart in every race.  She might not be the fastest, but she enjoys herself at every event.  Seven years later she is going strong.  

We added to our Jack family two years ago... Alligator Jack's Jonty.  She is quite fast, but has an aversion to the "hole".  I call her my ADHD girl.  She is so sweet, but in her own little world.  Luckily she likes the lure, just ask Don (my two are the noisiest).

I enjoy all my time with the SSJRTC.  Even though I've been a member for years I'm still learning and willing to learn more.  I will try to help the club in any capacity I can.

Julie Pache  ~  Running for Director

Two years ago, my son David asked if I could keep his dog Bruce, a Jack Russell Terrier for him while he went in the military. My husband Rick and I already had 4 dogs so how could one more make a difference? Our first outing with Bruce was Williston in November and little did we know how that event would change our life.  Bruce became Bruce Almighty on the Lure Course and the name stuck. We learned the reason the Thunder Tunnel is so named is because that is what it sounds like when Bruce Almighty runs through, banging his way to the rat. Bruce Almighty won his first ribbon, a red one, that day and we went home tired but proud. A year later, Little Bit was added to the house just as we lost an older dog. We have tried to help at each event in some way because it takes many people to run these events.

Rick and I have met so many wonderful people, who patiently taught us the ropes and continue giving us tips and advice. There is value to Sunshine State Jack Russell Terrier Club in friendship, fun, and the chance to help others discover a meaningful relationship with their dog(s). By serving on the board of SSJRTC, I plan to pass on what has been given to me, teach others what I have been taught, and learn more about these wonderful dogs that bounce into your life.

Judy Tyno ~ Director  ~  Term ends 12/31/2010

I live with 9 terriers and my husband, John. I have been involved with Jack Russells for almost 11 years. I am currently the Florida State Rep for the JRTCA, and a SSJRTC board member. I am on the membership, merchandise, and awards committees.

My interests lie in keeping our Club strong and making sure our membership is offered the events and safe venues to work and play with their terriers. Educate and inform membership and outside inquiries about excessive breeding and the exploitation of the Jack Russell Terrier. Continue to offer excellent and rewarding trials each year. Submit suggestions and comments regarding our terriers and members to the JRTCA in my yearly report. Work to ensure we are doing what is best to protect this little white dogs’ future.  Enjoy and have fun!

Pam  Williams ~ Treasurer  ~  Re-running for Treasurer

My name is Pam Williams.  I have been involved with this feisty little breed for over 19 years.  My oldest JRT is Heaven Hill Nordic Wolf.  I have been a member of the JRTCA for just as long and a member of Sunshine State JRT Club since its inception. 

I reside in Altamonte Springs with my son Robby and too many jacks to count.  I enjoy going to JRT trials, hunting, agility and anything else that I can involve the JRs in.  I have had the pleasure of enjoying 2 National Champions with the JRTCA and am always working on more.   Hunting with the Jacks has become my 1^st love in the last few years and Legacy has just earned his Bronze Medallion at 12 yrs of age!  

I have served previously on the Board of Directors for Sunshine State for 4 years.  I am currently employed as a bookkeeper and feel I am qualified to track the expenses for the Club.  I bring to the SSJRTC years of experience, a passion for the breed and the dedication that you would expect from such a professional Club.

Give me a call to talk “Jacks” anytime.  I very much enjoy discussing this breed with any and all potential new Jack owners.

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John Tyno ~ President  ~  Term ends 12/31/2010

John has been president of the SSJRTC since 2003.  He does not plan to re-run for election at the completion of his 2010 term.

Thank You John for Seven Great Years of Leadership!

 Audie Sumner ~ Honorary Director

Longtime SSJRTC member and past board member Audie Sumner has graciously accepted the Board's invitation to an Honorary position on the Board of Directors.  Audie spearheads Regional efforts for Russell Rescue and as such is vital to the Club's ability to effectively support this important program.  Welcome back to the Board Audie and thanks for all you and your team do for the less fortunate Jacks!