May 21, 2010 Our first informational Dog Park Meeting was held May 17 at the CAC. As president, I led the welcome and spoke briefly about the each facet of the park status of the park in general terms. When we first started fundraising, we stated that if someone donated $5000 or more, they would have the privilege of naming the park that would be denoted by a significant brass plaque. As Nancie and I have donated over $5000, we chose to name the park after our first Rottweiler, "Rusty," not only a top show dog, but also an advanced obedience champion. The park will be dedicated "Rusty's Place."

Nancie Guido spoke about the website and fundraising. With two cornerstone events, the upcoming Memorial Day Picnic on May 31 and the Shaggy Chic Super Sale on September 25, our funding is looking very solid to complete Phase I. We are pleased with the way the brick sales are going (click on the link for an online order form). A question was raised about the possibility of doing another calendar this year. This year the decision was made to stick with just two fundraisers that we feel will raise the most money for the amount of time expended. We will certainly review what our next year's venues will be at the end of the year and will be asking the membership what fundraisers they would like to have.
 
Sue Seitz was next on the agenda with membership information (please refer to the link for information that was discussed). Membership is now open for application; applications with check should be returned to Sue. One of the questions the board has struggled with has been the issue of immunizations. After much research gathered from other private parks and the veterinarians in our area, the board determined at the meeting on the following day, May 20, that we would require rabies (which is required by Tennessee law), parvovirus and distemper. All members are urged to consult with their own veterinarian or health care provider to see if their individual dog needs any further health care clearances or vaccinations to become members of the park.

Harvey Phillips spoke about the process of "vetting" the dogs into the park. We are going to have an experienced dog-knowledgeable person come and help with the introductory phase of the park. What signals do we need to be aware of from our dogs in a park situation, how to curb disputes, what to do if there is something that causes a disturbance, how to read someone else's dog and what to do. There may be some dogs that may need training before induction into the park. Harvey also brought up some good ideas about future classes (obedience, agility and possibly conformation).

I'd like to single out several stellar volunteers who are making a difference this past month, starting once again with Jack Wright with his leadership in park construction; Sue Seitz with keeping the records and helping us get on track with our administrative details, selling bricks and helping guide the Memorial Day event; and Marlene Eeg, who has been such a stalwart support to each of us, especially keeping the communications on track. There are many others without whose help we could not possibly get the job done. Thanks to each and every one!