English Cocker Spaniel Field Trial Hall of Fame Committee Meeting Minutes December 11, 2024 – 6:00 pm CST (Conference Call)

Members in Attendance:

Absent: John Bishop and Jeff Janousek

Discussion of amendment to nominate/induct a couple as one nomination
It was discussed that this situation would be a rare instance. The issue of merit of each individual is what is evaluated. It was decided to leave the current guidelines for inducting individuals as is and continue to take each situation on a case-by-case basis.
Discussion of committee members nominating while serving
The concern was brought up about potentially stifling conversation or appearing to have conflicts of interest. A workaround could be having another person submit the nomination. Committee members should recuse themselves from discussion if there is a conflict.

An amendment was proposed:
HoF committee members cannot make a nomination for a dog or individual while serving on the HoF committee.
Motion made by Tawney, Second by Tom. Vote – 5 yes, 1 no, 1 absent.
Discussion of age requirement for individual nominees
The concern was that the 65‑year‑old minimum is too restrictive. It was noted that long‑term efforts and sportsmanship are what matter most, and that the bylaws already allow exceptions (amended in 2014). It was decided no further change is needed.
Discussion of announcing past inductees at the NCC
Celebrating Hall of Fame inductees is important. Although past announcements raised conflict‑of‑interest concerns, inductees are already public. The committee will request the NCC committee each year to make an announcement at their discretion.

Donation wall plaque update
The small plates on the plaque will accommodate four lines of text. Bethann will proceed with the order.