SPOTLIGHT ON DICK RICKER

In 1988, a 44-year old man left his established career for a path less known. Unexpectedly,
he learned of an important life-lesson only months before… life is too short. Make a
difference in your life and your world. Seize your dreams. His daughter’s death that year
was the impetus for change. He arrived at this decision with no savings, and now, no
income. His name? Dick Ricker

Pigeons had always provided joy and sanctuary for Dick. Soon, his sanctuary and source of
joy became an inspiration for his new life path. He would make his life’s passion a career.
The first years were hard. To make ends meet, Dick and his wife took to paper-routes and
other odd jobs. Then one morning, he shared his life-tale with Ed Lemoine, a close friend
and fellow enthusiast. It wasn't long before the two decided to go into partnership and open
a fancier supply store together. JEDDS was born. They would leverage their respected
skills and endow their inspiration to the world.

From the beginning, this was very much a family effort. All members of each family pitched
in where they could. As a matter of fact, our company name, JEDDS, is an acronym. Each
individual letter represents the first name of each individual family member; [J] Janice Ricker,
[E] Ed Lemoine, [D] Donna Lemoine and [D] Dick Ricker… JEDDS!

From the beginning, JEDDS business philosophy was based on exceptional service,
selection, quality and value. The company built a devoted customer base; and in 1990, the
partners leased a second warehouse.

In 1992, Ed Lemoine sold his share of the company to Dick and Janice Ricker. Dick added
an international partner, Boddy & Ridewood, in 1995.

> A Growing Reputation

The company soon grew to become one of the largest fancier supplies and services
distributors in the United States. By 1994, JEDDS had a solid customer-base in all 50
states, as well as, Canada, Mexico and Japan.

By 1995, the company was looking for new ways to spread its wings. Venturing with
Boddy & Ridewood, England, provided increased international reach. More comprehensive
now than ever before, JEDDS product mix received positive acclaim from individual
fanciers and sanctioned organizations alike. In addition, new associates, whom shared Dick’
s life philosophy, joined the JEDDS team.

By the year 2000, the company had grown to large for its space. A third and fourth
warehouse was added to accommodate large international inventories and customers.
JEDDS consistently has its eye on customer needs.

At JEDDS, our associates take great pride in providing the very best in customer service.
Our warehouses offer a variety of services to accommodate our fanciers' improvement
needs. And our free online reference guides help pigeon owners develop their do-it-yourself
skills.

      I just want to add here that its been a pleasure to race against many of the
top pigeon breeders in our sport this  year.   By no means was this an easy victory.  We
feel very fortunate to have come out on top this year.   Thanks also to all of you in the
sport who have made my company a success.      Sincerely,  Dick Ricker
                           "Gadsden"
Gadsden is a larger than medium Cockbird.  He is apple
bodied, a little longer cast with long powerful wings.
He has a short forearm with thick wing butts and has
perfect balance.  He gives the expression of  "power"
while in the hand.   He is'nt of the soft supple muscle we
often so much hear about, but rather he has a more solid
mass type body.   His powder blue color really sets him
apart from the crowd.   Gadsden is bred from a hen from
Greg Mc Knight mated to a British imported cockbird.
He is almost too pretty to be as good as he is.  Very
impressive pigeon both in the hand and on the perch!!!!!


                                                                            bill
*  150 mi.     169th

*  200 mi.       21st

*  250 mi.         2nd

*  300 mi.       11th

         1,619 total points