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Longtime Black Bart Hoo-Hoo Club 181 member Jeff Ward has been elected Snark of the Universe, the highest leadership position within Hoo-Hoo International, the fraternal organization of the forest products industry. His election took place at the organization’s recent annual convention held in San Antonio, Tx. Ward will serve as Snark for the 2025–2026 term.
Ward, who serves as Vice President of Mendo Mill & Lumber Company in Ukiah, Ca., brings more than 40 years of experience in the lumber industry to the role. Known for his energy, steady leadership, and deep understanding of the business, he embodies the Hoo-Hoo spirit of fellowship, industry pride, and community service.
A resident of Redwood Valley, Ca., Ward and his wife Lori have three grown sons who are now raising families of their own. When he’s not spearheading Mendo Mill’s five retail locations or on the road representing Hoo-Hoo, Jeff can often be found outdoors—hunting, fishing, and enjoying the natural world that the industry he serves helps sustain.
As Snark of the Universe, Ward plans to focus his term on strengthening existing clubs, growing membership, and reactivating dormant clubs across North America and beyond. “Hoo-Hoo has always been about relationships—people helping people in an industry built on hard work, honesty, and heart,” Ward said. “I want to make sure that spirit continues to thrive in every corner of the organization.”
Founded in 1892, Hoo-Hoo International is one of the oldest service organizations in the United States, dedicated to promoting goodwill, fellowship, and business cooperation within the forest products industry.
