From the Regional Director: Part 2

Part 2: Regional Events and Regional Fund Sustainability

The 2011 regional meeting participants had two primary priorities before them which the delegates present tackled deliberately, decisively, and with absolutely no self serving agendas present. It was without rancor and absolutely refreshing in it's tenor.

It was noted that despite the best efforts of well-intended, highly capable clubs and individuals to host and indeed pull off first class regional events, these events were entirely underrepresented by other clubs in the region.

Twin County Schutzhund Club sponsored this year's Regional Helper Seminar featuring Dennis Vander Linde the Director of the UScA Helper Committee. By all accounts it was an excellent event both in its preparation and Dennis' work with the various helpers. However, no UScA club helpers aside from TCSC's own attended although Karen noted the participation of several non affiliated helpers who later obtained UScA membership. Karen would further like it noted that although the event itself was in the red, it most certainly generated "income" from participant dues and to UScA itself through new membership.

Tri State Schutzhund Association sponsored this year's Regional Championship putting together an excellent venue with gorgeous tracking, a World respected judge, and National level helpers. Gail, Sue, Lynne and many others put on the kind of event that you know represented many, many months of hard work and preparation as it was pulled off without a hitch and seemingly effortlessly. Unfortunately, only one UScA club handler team chose to participate in the schutzhund portion, Lynne Lewis with Galina. But through the concerted efforts of Warren and the organizers many friends and independent UScA members showed to support the event with a myriad of TRs, OBs, and last minute entries. Gail was proud to report the event will not be requiring reimbursement by the region.

In lieu of the limited participation at these two regionally mandated events, the delegates began earnest consideration on two main issues. The first, how to stem the regional funds' recent outflow that we may support these events and remain viable; and second, what steps may be taken to "hopefully" increase participation at next year's regional venues.

The Regional Fund

It was proposed by Lynne Lewis that the region adopt funding for the Regional Championship similar to the Canadians in their respective regions. Every club will "sponsor" two schutzhund entry fees for the Regional Championship. They would then have the option to either send two members to fill those pre-paid spots or the money would default toward support of the event. This motion was passed and, to the credit of the delegates present and an excellent idea, both our solvency and ability to continue hosting quality events was assured.

The Regional Championships, Conformation Show/Breed Survey and Helper Seminar

After lengthy discussion, considerations of precedents, and the regional bylaws, the delegates voted on and made the following changes for 2012. As an overview, it was sincerely hoped by all present that these changes would encourage growth in participation from all in the region.

1. The Regional Championship and Helper Seminar will be held on the same weekend to help defray overall costs. They will be held at a neutral venue to be determined and coordinated by the regional director's office. It will be absolutely essential for this concept to work that clubs with "boots on the ground" and local knowledge volunteer lending the necessary guidance and support.
2. The Regional Conformation Show and breed survey would remain a stand alone event as it has historically been revenue positive for the hosting club. Since no bid was received, it was left as unfinished business and bids will be solicited going forward.

As it stands today, these events will be scheduled late summer and south of Tacoma.

It was with high optimism that the meeting was adjourned in that it very well addressed our fiscal needs and hopefully some incentive for more of our members' return to regional participation.

However, it should lastly be noted that the results of this meeting may very well be challenged in reference to specific bylaw compliance or their meaning and intent. These concerns may well be legitimate, so it is hoped that any who were not in attendance who may have these concerns bring them forward in a timely manner that they may be appropriately redressed.

Best regards,
Kevin Nance