2008 Minutes

Minutes (Revised) of General Membership Meeting Held On Saturday, December 13, 2008 in Bethany, CT

In attendance: Crystal and Jarrod Ashe, Richard Bennington, Rick Diotalevi, Marisa Fowler, Joan Heimbach, Audra Jaconetti, Elliot and Carolyn Jessen, Kim Karkut, Rich and Deb Loomis, David Margolin, Linda Morris, Jan Norris, Carol Phelps, Joan Toepke. President Rich Loomis called the board meeting to order at 2:30 p.m. at the home of Rick and Mary Ellen Diotalevi in Bethany, CT.

Treasurer’s Report: Treasurer Rick Diotalevi reported that the checking account balance is $11,259.99, the Health Issues Fund has $4,084.56, and the Breed Rescue Fund has $4,322.32. Pursuant to Club by-laws, the Treasurer printed an itemized category report and the check register for board members to review.

Conformation Committee;The Conformation Committee Co-Chair Carol Phelps asked whether the Board had approved the submitted list of conformation judges for use at upcoming specialties and supported entries. The list was submitted to the Board last month by the Conformation Committee. Rich Loomis confirmed that the Board did approve the submitted list at the November meeting.

Everything is set for the GSA show in February. Joan Toepke and her sister, Linda Furey, have volunteered to work on trophies and will manage the raffle. Kim Karkut will contact the judges and advise them as to judging time once the schedule is published.

Hunt Test: Dates are drawn for the Ocotber 2009 hunt test. John Morris and Marisa Fowler volunteered to chair the event at Flaherty grounds on the Dearborn tract. Kim Karkut volunteered to manage hospitality.

Field Trial: The December 6, 2008 field trial was very successful, with 52% Vizsla participation. Marisa Fowler and Audra Jaconetti did an outstanding job co-chairing the event. A fellowship dinner held Saturday night was enjoyed by all who attended. The event took in a profit of approximately $600. The event results will be published in the upcoming newsletter. The event committee did an outstanding job, running a full day of entries. Next year it will be a 2-day event.

The December 13, 2008 report submitted by Joan Heimbach, Chair of the Standing Field Trial Committee appears below. Thanks to Joan for the electronic version.

1) Old Business – I contacted Kim Himmelfarb and she decided to identify the Saul Himmelfarb traveling trophy with the Amateur Walking Puppy stake as it is closed to Vizslas only and represents an entry level, encouragement opportunity for more club members and Vizsla owners to get exposed to field trialing. It will be offered for the first time in the Spring trial 2009. A solicitation for funds will take place by email announcement as well as printed in the newsletter. Kim has been asked to present it for the first time if she is available.

2) Walking FT report. All went well, successful, many vizsla entered. Great donations of food items and raffle items. A fellowship dinner was offered Saturday night. The event realized a profit of approximately $600. Results and a thank you article have been sent to newsletter.

Note: Patrick has designated that any refund due to scratches be applied to Vizsla Rescue within the CVVC. That amounts to $50. A thank you note should be sent to his home recognizing the donation from CVVC Vizsla Rescue.

The committee will have some recommendations on purchases for items used by all field venues but will submit them at the January meeting which will offer more time for discussion.

3) Dates have been drawn for the 2009 events. Work is now in progress on the Spring Field Trial. Of initial importance is securing a judging panel. Wrangler has been reserved.

4) At the last meeting of the Standing Committee, and as reported in November minutes, Patrick expressed his intent to fund a traveling trophy for first place in Open Limited Gun Dog honoring Yogurt and traveling case for protection. That plan is in limbo until Patrick’s estate is settled. Joan Heimbach will send copy of minutes to appropriate individual to help in clearing the release of funds intended for this purpose.

5) Memorial to Patrick. Folks and other clubs have come forth with suggestions for some type of useful memorial at the Flaherty grounds. This seems to be an idea without management at this time. If there continues to be interest, the Standing FT committee will research cost of such and report on feasibility.

Flaherty Field Trial Association Meeting: Rich Loomis and Audra Jaconetti represented CVVC and David Margolin attended as the Flaherty Treasurer.

Audra Jaconetti volunteered to represent CVVC as the Flaherty Field Trial Association delegate. Rich Loomis asked if there were any other volunteers. No one offered, and the members in attendance voted Audra as our rep – with no objections. Thanks, Audra!

Joan Heimbach made a motion to place our annual CVVC ad in the Flaherty Field Trial Association, Inc. booklet at a cost of $50. Kim Karkut seconded. The motion carried.

The Flaherty Field Trial Association will be dedicating their 2009 booklet to Patrick Cooke. CVVC may want to take out additional ads and/or discuss other ways to honor Patrick. Joan Heimbach made a motion to place an additional $50 ad in the booklet. Marisa Fowler seconded. The motion carried.

Tom Mercier is raising funds to put Patrick Cooke into the Bird Dog Hall of Fame, as was done for Rich Garini and Bob Fleury. Joan Heimbach made a motion that we discuss a donation in conjunction with other ways to honor Patrick at the January 14, 2009 meeting. Carol Phelps seconded. The motion carried.

Newsletter" The deadline for the Fall / Winter 2008 issue is approaching. Ads are still being accepted.

Membership: There are two new members who will be acknowledged in the upcoming newsletter

Committee Guidelines: The group agreed to review the rewrite of Committee Guidelines at the January meeting.

New Business: Val Mendizabal is looking for prospective locations for our next Club Fun Day.

Upcoming Meeting: Our next meeting will be held on Wednesday, January 14, 2009 at the Jefferson House in Newington.

Crystal Ashe made a motion to adjourn. Carol Phelps seconded. The meeting was adjourned at 3:02 p.m.

Crystal Ashe, Richard Bennington, Rick Diotalevi, Joan Heimbach, Kim Karkut, Rich Loomis, Linda Morris, Jan Norris, Joan Toepke

President Rich Loomis called the board meeting to order at 2:20 p.m. at the home of Rick and Mary Ellen Diotalevi in Bethany, CT.

A draft of the minutes from the November 18, 2008 meeting was e-mailed to board members for review and corrections were made. Rick Diotalevi made a motion to accept the corrected minutes; Kim Karkut seconded. All present voted in favor.

Treasurer Rick Diotalevi reported that the checking account balance is $11,259.99, the Health Issues Fund has $4,084.56, and the Breed Rescue Fund has $4,322.32. Pursuant to Club by-laws, the Treasurer printed the check register for board members to review.

No report. The Corresponding Secretary was traveling in South America and was unable to attend. However, she sent cookies and a note with holiday greetings.

CVVC made a $50 donation to the Bird Dog Hall of Fame in honor of Bob Fleury.

Joan Heimbach spoke to Kim Himmelfarb, who suggested that the trophy honoring Saul Himmelfarb be the Amateur Puppy Stake award. All present concurred that would be a fitting tribute to Saul’s work with puppies and young dogs in the field.

Rick Diotalevi made a motion to adjourn. Jan Norris seconded. The meeting was adjourned at 2:25 p.m.

Minutes of General Membership Meeting Held On Tuesday, November 18, 2008 at Wood N Tap in Southington, CT

Crystal Ashe, Richard Bennington, Rick Diotalevi, Marisa Fowler, Henry Grant, Joan Heimbach, Rich Loomis, Val Mendizabal, Linda Morris, Jan Norris, Amanda and Daniel Tortora

President Rich Loomis called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. at the Wood N Tap restaurant in Southington, CT.

Susan Nakamura submitted a correction to the Health Committee minutes from the October 22, 2008 meeting. The entire cost of the July 13 blood draw was $25, not $25 per dog. Also, the $2,000 donation received by the Club is solely for the purpose of epilepsy blood draws.

With these corrections, Rich Diotalevi made a motion to accept the minutes of the October 22 meeting; Crystal Ashe and Richard Bennington seconded. All present voted in favor.

Treasurer Rick Diotalevi reported that transfers from 2009 dues are complete. The checking account balance is $13,712.68, the Health Issues Fund has $4,084.58, and the Breed Rescue Fund has $4,322.32. Only 22 of 160 members did not renew by the October 1 deadline. Renewal applications will continue to be accepted through the grace period ending December 31, 2008.

Val Mendizabal said the AKC is reminding clubs about new online procedures for event registrations in 2009.

Rich Loomis received a letter from the AKC about a Humane Fund sponsored by the AKC. Because our club already has a breed rescue program, those present thought the AKC Humane Fund could risk diverting money away from our rescue program.

Susan Potocik needs volunteers to bring coolers of ice to the supported entry show this weekend at the Big E fairground. If you can help, please contact Susan at cinnabarviz@att.net

Carol Phelps submitted an e-mail report. The Committee has submitted a list of proposed judges for Specialties.

The hunt test on October 4 and 5, 2008 was a big success. The final report on the event was accepted at the October 22, 2008 meeting.

Joan Heimbach submitted a written report and a projected budget for the spring 2009 field trial.

Plans for the December 6, 2008 walking trial are in progress and going well. Entries are full with a short waiting list. There are still a few openings in amateur stakes (derby and gun dog.). Eleven CVVC members are currently entered, which is a good response. The Committee is asking for volunteers to help with hospitality and grounds chores for the event.

The Committee met on November 9, 2008 and addressed plans for 2009. Requests for dates at Flaherty Field in 2009 must be submitted by Sunday, December 7, 2008. The Field Trial Committee suggests:

a) A 3-day horseback trial in April per our standing weekend on April 17, 18, 19 or more likely, April 24, 25, 26.

b) A 1-day hunting dog championship on Saturday after the Greenwich Specialty and after the Conestoga Specialty, which will probably be held on Saturday, June 20, 2009.

c) A 2-day walking trial with a full complement of stakes on the first weekend in December or on a better fall date, depending on our seniority in the drawing process. The walking trial date must not conflict with the CVVC Hunt Test, the Vizsla Club of America (VCA) nationals, or the Conestoga Vizsla Club and the Old Dominion Vizsla Club shows. Dates are being determined now.

d) Hunt Test dates must be determined now. Preference is for the corresponding date from this year – if unobtainable may select another date.

Note: A request for a hunting dog championship date will be submitted as a standalone event. If a Fun Day or a Versatility Day at Flaherty Field can be planned for a Sunday on the same weekend Joan recommends the planners ‘piggyback’ on the same weekend by requesting the Sunday following the hunting dog championship. The date must be finalized and the request must be submitted by December 7, 2008. After discussion we will pick a Saturday and Sunday, for the Hunting Dog Championship and our Fun Day – June 13, 14 or 20, 21 with the 20^th, 21^st preferred.

The Field Trial Committee is introducing three permanent traveling trophies that will debut at the spring field trial.

The first trophy will be a plaque for Amateur Walking Puppy in memory of Saul Himmelfarb. This stake represents an entry level of competition, one well within reach of CVVC members and other Vizsla owners. Kim Himmelfarb was contacted and chose this stake because it is traditionally a Vizsla-only stake and may encourage CVVC members. Solicitations will be sought from club members with the balance of the cost donated by members of the standing Field Trial Committee.

Patrick Cooke will offer the second trophy for the winner of Open Limited Gun Dog in honor of Yogurt. Joan Heimbach will offer the third trophy for the winner of Amateur Gun Dog in honor of Sparky. These trophies are sponsored by their donors with the stipulation that if the CVVC discontinues field trials the trophies be forwarded to an active field trial club of the donors’ choice. The trophies will be offered only at the spring trial (on horseback).

The Committee encourages other members to honor a person or a dog by sponsoring a trophy in other stakes at both field trials. These trophies serve to enhance CVVC’s image, which is already perceived as “first class.”

The budget for the spring field trial has marginal increases over last year’s event. Anticipated expenses are increased to allow more money for judges who travel further from outside our region. The goal is to break even, but the Club may see a profit if the proposed budget is realized. After discussion and comparing this budget to the 2008 actual income and expenses the 2009 Spring Field Trial Budget was accepted as submitted.

The AKC requires all paperwork three months prior to an event. The proposed date is either April 17 or April 24, 2009, whichever is drawn, so we must submit our paperwork by January 17, 2009. Budget modifications can be submitted at the January board meeting (before January 17), if necessary.

No report. Val Mendizabal suggested we look into orange vests with the CVVC logo. The group agreed it was a great idea.

Crystal Ashe reported that Dr. Andrew Frishman, who made a presentation about PennHIP certification at our September meeting, offered to hold a blood draw in his office in Somers, NY. We are aiming for early spring for this draw. Separately, the Long Island Vizsla Club is also talking about a spring blood draw.

Ida Tenenbom has indicated that she would appreciate ads for the next newsletter.

The existing guidelines were edited by the group. A draft of the updated guidelines will be distributed separately for approval.

The CVVC banner is still missing. It was last seen at last year’s GSA show. Members are asked to check their closets for the lost banner. It would be wonderful to have it at upcoming events.

Kim Karkut is coordinating food for the meeting and holiday party planned on Saturday December 13, 2008 at the home of Rick and Mary Ellen Diotalevi at 24 Timber Lane in Bethany, CT 06524. The meeting is at 2:00; the party begins at 3:00. If you can attend and are able to bring food, please contact Kim at 203 888-6764 or rkarkut@comcast.net.

Val Mendizabal will check with Canine Clubhouse in Farmington as a prospective location for a winter Fun Day in March 2009. Canine Clubhouse can offer a pool so the dogs can swim.

Joan Heimbach reported that the walkie-talkie rain jackets were purchased and they work well.

Rick Diotalevi made a motion to adjourn. Crystal Ashe and Joan Heimbach seconded. The meeting was adjourned at 8:40PM.

Minutes of the Board Meeting held on Wednesday, October 22, 2008 in Bloomfield, CT

The October 2008 board meeting of the CVVC was held on Wednesday, October 22 at Valerie and Lorenzo Mendizabal’s home in Bloomfield.

In attendance: Crystal Ashe, Richard Bennington, Rick Diotalevi, Henry Grant, Kim Himmelfarb, Sandy Jacobus, Kim Karkut, Ida Kavafian, Rich Loomis, Val Mendizabal, John and Linda Morris, Susan Nakamura, Jan Norris, Joan Toepke. President Rich Loomis called the meeting to order at 7:37 p.m.

Minutes accepted – Rick Diotalevi made a motion to accept the minutes of the September 18, 2008 meeting. Crystal Ashe seconded, and the motion was passed unanimously. Recording Secretary Jan Norris thanked those who edited the draft of the September minutes. She asked members presenting reports to e-mail their reports directly to her following the meeting to streamline the process and increase accuracy.

CVVC web site – The board discussed posting the account balances on the web site. Rick Diotalevi is concerned about maintaining a permanent record. Password protection and limited access authority were discussed. Ida Kavafian acknowledged that we haven’t yet established new rules for the web site. For now, we will continue using current procedures until we investigate a password method for accessing the minutes. Val Mendizabal noted that the monthly minutes are sometimes the only contact club members have with the club. Rich Loomis will e-mail the minutes to the full membership, including four members who don’t have e-mail.

Treasurer’s Report - Treasurer Rick Diotalevi reported the balances in the checking, breed, and health accounts and distributed a copy of the check register, as is required at quarterly meetings. The checking account balance is $15,091.73; the breed rescue account balance is $4,315.06; the health issues account balance is $3,399.56. 2009 donations that are not yet transferred are $1,075 for breed rescue and $650 for health issues. Rick also reported on the status of membership renewal. 160 renewal forms were mailed, 113 have been returned, and 47, about 30%, are outstanding.

Conformation Committee – Richard Bennington presented the budget proposal for the Garden Specialty Assoc. (GSA) show on February 6, 2009 from Carol Phelps, who was unable to attend. Costs are increasing so the club is no longer breaking even. However, it is great ‘warm-up’ venue that attracts Westminster entries, so the board concurred that it is still a worthwhile event. Richard Bennington made a motion to approve the proposed budget, Joan Toepke seconded, and the budget proposal was approved.

October Hunt Test – The hunt test on October 4 and 5, 2008 was very successful. John Morris and Marisa Fowler were co-chairs; Linda Morris and Susan Nakamura were co-secretaries. Projected revenues were $3,290 with projected expenses of $3,038, yielding a projected net profit of $252. The revenue projection was based on an estimate of 62 junior entries and 28 master/senior entries. The actual numbers were 73 junior and 56 senior/master entries, so actual revenue exceeded projections by $1,545. Although bird costs were $530 higher than expected, the event yielded a net profit of $1307.98. We thank all the volunteers who contributed their time and efforts to produce such a successful event, especially the chairs and secretaries. Joan Toepke moved to accept the final 2008 hunt test report, Rich Loomis seconded, and the report was unanimously accepted. Linda and John Morris noted that we need to buy more Junior ribbons. A purchase of 150 ribbons represents about a three-year supply. Jan Norris moved to approve the purchase of ribbons, Ida Kavafian seconded, and the motion carried.

December Field Trial – Joan Heimbach, Chair of the Field Trial Committee, did not attend but submitted her report via e-mail. The event will take place on Saturday, December 6, 2008 at Flaherty Field in East Windsor. All judges are in place and all are providing their own horses, for which they will receive a stipend. No wrangler will be available for gallery horses, but members of the gallery may follow any brace on foot. The AKC has approved our judging panel. Audra, our Field Trial Secretary, is in the process of sending the premium to the club web master and to the President for distribution to members. Since the AKC web site indicated our trial would be open for entries on October 6, several entries were sent using ‘universal’ premium forms. We will solicit volunteers through e-mails to membership as well as personal phone calls. There is no reason to expect any significant adjustment to the bottom line of the original budget submitted for this event. While various categories will fluctuate, the overall budget still appears to hold. Adjustments will continue to be made as we approach event date.

CVVC Merchandise – Sandy Jacobus reported that the camouflage hats were a big hit at the hunt test. The merchandise line will expand to include pigment-dyed sweatshirts and suede-finish zip-front and pullover sweatshirts. Sandy expects to receive new prices from the vendor. The full-zip hooded sweatshirt will be priced at $48 while other sweatshirts will range from $26 - $32. The vendor is very flexible and cooperative and generally great to work with. Sandy plans to take merchandise to the SKC supported entry on Sunday, November 23.

Health Committee – Susan Nakamura reported that the blood draw at Manchester Veterinary Clinic on Sunday, July 13 was very successful with 55 participants. All samples were sent to Ned Patterson at the University of Minnesota and were received on July 15. Susan reminded us that we need to report health updates on participating dogs in the study. Forms for updating a dog’s status are available on our web site. A pin is available for people who donated their dogs’ DNA to the study. Contact Susan Nakamura if you would like a pin.

[Note changes in this paragraph adopted at November 2008 meeting] This blood draw on July 13 cost $25 in total for all dogs – $20 for the viles, $5 for the cooler. It was noted that years ago, the Club received a $2,000 donation anonymously solely for the purpose of epilepsy blood draws. CVVC has also benefited from generous donations of time and materials by the veterinarians and technicians who have worked with us on our blood draws. We have sufficient funds to contribute to draws in Long Island, Somers New York, Pennsylvania and perhaps northeastern Connecticut. If the Club is approached for such support, the Health Committee will present a proposed budget to the Board for approval.

Susan mentioned that we can consider inviting a speaker to discuss OFA hip certification after hearing a presentation by Dr. Andrew Frishman on PennHIP.

Events – The CT Expo Center will host its annual Pet Expo on October 25 – 26. They typically feature examples of AKC breeds. Richard Bennington thought we had sufficient Vizsla representation planned.

Newsletter – Ida Kavafian reported that she is busy working on the Newsletter. Pictures and ads are needed for the upcoming issue.

New Membership – Names of new members were published in the Summer 2008 newsletter: John and Sandy Baker; Marshall and Stacie Berdan; Marissa and Sandra D’Andrea; Mara Fizdale; Tom and Judy Jakups; Megan Means; Josef and Ilanna Schwalbe. By unanimous vote all were welcomed into the club. There was discussion of welcome packets for new members and what contents to include.

New Business – CVVC and the Flaherty Field Trial Clubs have been asked to contribute to a Bird Dog Foundation Life Patron Award for Bob Fleury. Bob served as president of the association for many years and coordinated and published the Flaherty Yearbook, the major fund-raising effort for the club. He also worked to remodel the Flaherty clubhouse.

Kim Karkut moved to donate $50 to honor Bob Fleury and Joan Toepke seconded. The motion was approved.

Goals for 2008 – 2009 – Review committee guidelines, revise the bylaws to conform with AKC requirements.

Saturday, December 13, 2008 – Holiday party at the home of Rick and Mary Ellen Diotalevi - Note: Kim Karkut will coordinate food for the holiday party. To offer help with refreshments, call Kim at 203 888-6764 or e-mail Kim at rkarkut@comcast.net

Wednesday, January 14, 2009 – Board mtg at the Jefferson House in Newington (to be reserved)

Kim Karkut moved to adjourn the meeting and Rick Diotalevi seconded the motion.

Minutes of the General Membership Meeting held on September 18, 2008 in New Fairfield, CT

In attendance were: Crystal Ashe, Rick and Mary Ellen Diotalevi, Sandy Ehmer, Joan Heimbach, Sandy Jacobus, Kim Karkut, Val Mendizabal, John and Linda Morris, Susan Nakamura, Jan Norris, Steve and Ida Tenenbom, Amanda Tortora, our guest speaker, Andrew Frishman, D.V.M. and his wife, Debbie Frishman.

The highlight of the meeting was Dr. Andrew Frishman’s presentation, arranged by Susan Nakamura. Dr. Frishman’s practice offers PennHIP radiography and stem cell therapy, and he makes house calls. Dr. Frishman is certified in veterinary holistic care, including acupuncture and Chinese and western herbs. His clinic is Progressive Animal Hospital, located at 149 Route 202 & Lovell Street in Somers, NY. His web site is www.progressive-vet.com He addressed the group on the topic of PennHIP radiography.

Susan Nakamura and Crystal Ashe, of the Health Committee, will recap important points from Dr. Frishman’s talk in the newsletter.

The presentation was informative, thorough, and interesting for all who attended. Everyone present received detailed hand-outs to share with other members. We thank Dr. Frishman for an excellent presentation that made complex material easy to understand. Thanks also go to Susan Nakamura for arranging an enlightening evening.

Kim Karkut called the business meeting to order at 8:58 p.m. The minutes of the August 15, 2008 meeting were accepted as submitted.

Breed Rescue - John Morris reported that we have no rescued Vizslas to place at this time.

October Hunt Test - John Morris reported that preparations are proceeding on schedule for the hunt test on October 4 and 5, 2008. The premium list is online and the running order will be posted online when established. Help with hospitality and bird planting is needed with on-the-job training provided. Volunteers are appreciated for even part of the day.

Conformation New Business – Ida Tenenbom reported that judges for upcoming shows have been finalized. At the Greenwich Kennel Club on Saturday, June 6, 2009 the Sweepstakes judge will be Sarah Barr and the regular judge will be Lester Mapes. At the Longshore-Southport Kennel Club on Sunday, June 7, 2009 the Sweepstakes judge will be Judy Vernon-Saddlemire and the regular judge will be Britt E, Jung.

December Field Trial – Joan Heimbach reported that our parent club, the Vizsla Club of America (VCA) has approved the walking trial on Saturday, December 6, 2008. AKC approval is pending receipt of that permission as well as completion of the judging panel. Invitation of judges continues. The Committee is inviting judges who own their own horses as it is financially impractical to hire a wrangler for a 1-day trial. Joan observed that for future planning, if there is sufficient interest in a walking trial, it is better to conduct a 2-day trial so expenses such as a wrangler can be spread over two days, and more entries can be accepted toward the cost of the event.

Entries will open on October 3, 2008. The entry premium will be put on our club web site and e-mailed to all CVVC members. The event is open to all breeds. There will be two amateur stakes: Walking Derby (like Junior Hunter) and Amateur Gun Dog (like Senior Hunter) as well as three Open Stakes of Derby, Gun Dog and Open Limited Gun Dog. Amateur Gun Dog and Open Limited Gun Dog will be retrieving stakes on callback. Organizers are hoping for help from volunteers with hospitality and other tasks. All plans are on schedule.

CVVC Merchandise – Sandy Jacobus displayed two new camouflage hat styles, in pink and orange camouflage patterns. Attendees thought the new styles will sell well at upcoming field events. The new camouflage hats are $17; regular hats are $15. Pullover and zip-up sweatshirts are also available. Sandy reminded us that we need to order by early November to have merchandise available for the holiday party.

Storage Locker and Flaherty Field buildings – Joan Heimbach reported that the radios and bird bags as well as clip boards are in the storage locker and that the Hunt Test Committee may want to get some large clips to hold some of the bird bags closed; the clips we have now are faulty. Joan was able to get to the storage locker to measure the radios. She will order rain pouches for the radios and have them sent directly to Linda and John Morris for use at the upcoming hunt test.

When using the storage locker, note that if three holes on the sliding latch are showing, it is not locked; if two are showing, it’s secured properly.

The painted CVVC banner has been missing for some months. Perhaps the missing banner can be mentioned in the newsletter, so members can check whether they have it.

There was also a theft of birds, toilet paper, and trash bags from the Flaherty bird house and clubhouse during a recent field trial held by another club. Any group from CVVC using the Flaherty facilities is cautioned to lock up the bird house and kitchen each night during and after multiple day events.

Health Committee – The blood draw at Manchester Veterinary Clinic on Sunday, July 13 was very successful with 56 participants. Susan Nakamura will write a report and a thank-you for the next newsletter. Pins are available to all who provided samples. Susan reminded us to provide updates about seizures or death of dogs so the data base can be maintained with current information.

Membership – Membership renewals for 2009 are due to Rick Diotalevi by October 1, 2008. Rick has received 48 renewals, 30%, and expects more through the rest of the month.

Breeder Referrals – Ida mentioned that Carol Phelps discovered that our club listing on the breeders.net web site has been removed. The listing was free, but now costs $23.95 / year. A motion was carried to approve a new club listing on the breeders’ web site @ $23.95.

Events – A Responsible Dog Owner event was held in Trumbull on September 20. The CT Expo Center will host its annual Pet Expo on October 25 – 26. They typically feature examples of AKC breeds.

Linda Morris proposed purchasing some VCA breed-specific pamphlets for interested spectators and a poster board for $28 to display information about CVVC events and breeders. The board can be displayed at events like the Pet Expo. A motion was carried to purchase the poster board.

VCA Ad and Trophy Donation – Susan Nakamura brought up the topic of CVVC donating something to the VCA Auction/Raffle as we have in past years. Ida expanded the discussion to a club ad and trophy donation. Rick Diotalevi offered to look into what we did last year. A motion was carried to donate to the Raffle.

The AKC National Obedience Show is planned in Long Beach, CA on Dec. 13 – 14, 2008. We may wish to place an ad in the catalog to show support.

Communication – Val Mendizabal reported that the AKC has approved the use of video conferencing and teleconferencing by member clubs if in compliance with state laws.

Linda Morris read a gracious thank-you note from Ruth Sinclair-Stephens, who judged for us in Greenwich.

On September 25, 2008, Rick Diotalevi made a motion to allocate $100 to Sandy Jacobus to procure items for the raffle at the VCA Nationals. Kim Karkut seconded the motion. Joan Toepke, Linda Morris, Crystal Ashe, and others voted in support of the motion. President Richard Loomis confirmed that the motion is carried.

Approved Minutes of the Board Meeting held on July 15, 2008 in Bethany, CT. Approved at the General Membership Meeting in New Fairfield on Thursday, September 18, 2008. [No meeting was held in August 2008].

The July, 2008 board meeting of the CVVC was held on Tuesday, July 15 at the home of Rick and Mary Ellen Diotalevi and their three Vizslas.

In attendance were: Crystal Ashe, Rich Bennington, Rick and Mary Ellen Diotalevi, Henry Grant, Joan Heimbach, Kim Karkut, Ida Kavafian-Tenenbom, Rich Loomis, Val Mendizabal, John and Linda Morris, Jan Norris, Carol Phelps, Susan Potocik, and Joan Toepke.

The group assembled, labeled, and stamped the “Vizsla Tales” Summer 2008 newsletter. At about 8:00 p.m., President Rich Loomis called the meeting to order.

Treasurer’s Report - Treasurer Rick Diotalevi reported the balance in the main checking account. Discussion of budget issues relating to specific events was deferred until respective Chairs presented their reports.

Communications – Rich Loomis received a thank-you note from Kim Himmelfarb to the Club. Kim expressed her appreciation for our touching acknowledgement of Saul’s passing in the recent newsletter. Ida gave the note to Val Mendizabal, the incoming Communications Secretary.

Conformation - Carol Phelps proposed revising our current policy of offering up to $150 to a sweepstakes judge for a hotel reservation. After discussion, it was agreed that reimbursements to sweepstakes judges for all travel expenses will be offered on a sliding scale. If requested by the judge, we will reimburse up to $50 for judges traveling under 100 miles, up to $100 for judges traveling 100 to 250 miles, and up to $150 for judges traveling over 250 miles. All present concurred with the proposed guidelines.

Ida Kavafian-Tenenbom presented the final report for the Greenwich Kennel Club (GKC) and Longshore Kennel Club (LSKC) dog shows held on June 7 and 8, 2008. Actual expenses were lower than estimated, income was higher than expected, and the raffles were very successful, so the final cost for CVVC was $464.22, less than a third of the estimated costs of $1, 545. The outcome was a great bottom line. Copies of the full report were submitted to the Board. Results of the weekend shows are published in the Summer 2008 newsletter. Ida also noted that LSKC offered to hire an additional judge due to the large entry.

Carol Phelps reported that the Conformation Committee has created the following list of sweepstakes judges for upcoming shows (in descending order of preference): Sarah Barr, Judy Saddlemire, Elizabeth Trainer, Olga Evelyn, David Miller and Linda Pruitt. Ida and Carol noted that Sarah Barr will be invited for GKC 2009, Judy Saddlemire will be invited for LSKC 2009 and Olga Evelyn will be invited for Springfield Kennel Club (SKC) 2008.

Val Mendizabal will be the judge contact person for the GKC and LSKC 2009 shows; Kim Karkut will be the judge contact person for SKC 2008 and Garden Specialty Association (GSA) 2009. Prospective sweepstakes judges will be asked not to judge a sweepstakes assignment within 300 miles of the show location in the six months prior to the show, and they will be asked to avoid the Vizsla ring on any day prior to their judging assignment at a circuit. The Conformation Committee will soon be considering and voting on a new list of regular judges for use at upcoming shows.

Carol reported that the SKC asked CVVC to accept Judge Carol Beattie as a replacement for our original judge choice, Walter Shellenberger, who may be ill.

At the February, 2009 GSA in Secaucus, New Jersey, Peter Green will judge Sweepstakes and Judith Goodin will judge regular classes.

October Hunt Test - John Morris reported that the American Kennel Club (AKC) has approved the proposed judging panel for the hunt test planned on October 4 and 5, 2008. As the date approaches, we need to recruit people to help with hospitality. Also, the Club may want to consider giving higher compensation to the hunt test judges, who work hard for very modest sums.

The Field Trial Committee is using a program document provided by Secretary Audra Jaconetti. It’s a simple format that does not require any special computer software.

April Field Trial – Joan Heimbach submitted a detailed report to the Board and a complete summary to the newsletter. The trial at Flaherty Field on April 18 – 20, 2008 was a huge success, attracting over 140 dogs in 10 stakes. The Amateur Walking Puppy stake was particularly special due to the interest and enthusiasm of the participants. Photos will be posted on the CVVC web site. Trial results are published in the CVVC Summer 2008 newsletter. Overall, the Field Trial greatly enhances CVVC’s reputation for professionalism. Everyone who contributed is to be congratulated for an outstanding event.

A December 6, 2008 walking trial is being planned at Flaherty Field and a list of judges is being compiled. We need waterproof pouches for the radios but they have not yet been ordered.

Generally field trials are large-budget events, i.e., $7,000 for one weekend. Judges and horses are the largest expenses. We need to recognize that we may not always make a profit because field trials can be high risk and volatile.

AGREEMENT - After some discussion, the group agreed that profits made by specific events will go into the general fund and will not be segregated for future use only by that type of event.

CVVC Fun Day – Rick Diotalevi reported that the Fun Day on June 28, chaired by Dennis Witzke and Debra Steele, was a great success and showed a profit of $180.48. Congratulations and thanks go to Dennis and Debra for a job well done.

CVVC 2008 Hunting Dog Championship – On June 29, 2008, the annual Hunting Dog Championships were held with 26 entries in two divisions. Joan Heimbach submitted a summary of the event to the 2008 Summer newsletter, photos to our web site and the newsletter, and with event Chair Audra Jaconetti, submitted a detailed report to the Board. This event has grown over recent years and attracts enough interest to be a standalone event. Thanks to Audra, Deb Malachowski, and to all the people whose efforts made this year successful, proving there is sufficient interest in this type of friendly yet competitive event.

CVVC Merchandise – Ida reported that Sandy Jacobus suggests that we offer T-shirts in kids’ sizes and in more colors. Hats are a popular item. The newsletter is a help in selling merchandise. The Treasurer will need gross and net sales to be totaled and reported.

Health Committee – Crystal Ashe reported the blood draw at Manchester Veterinary Clinic on Sunday, July 13 was very successful with 17 blood samples and 38 tails. Susan Nakamura will write a report.

Meeting Program Committee – Susan Nakamura has identified a prospective speaker who can address the Club about Penn Hip, an alternative to OFA certification of hips. The September general meeting was suggested as a possible forum for this speaker.

Membership - Twelve new members have recently joined CVVC; their names are published in the Summer 2008 newsletter. Val Mendizabal’s phone number in the membership directory and in the Summer 2008 newsletter is incorrect. Val’s correct phone number is 860 286-2866 (not 286-2862).

Wednesday, September 17, 2008 – General membership meeting (Val Mendizabal will look for a suitable meeting place)

Approved Minutes of the General Membership Meeting held on Saturday, June 7, 2008 at the CVVC Specialty at the Greenwich Kennel Club Show at Taylor Farm Park in Norwalk, CT.

Attendees: Meeting was held at our Specialty, many people attended and I apologize that I can’t remember everyone so I will leave this blank.

Meeting called to order around 12:30 p.m.

Next Meeting will be a Board Meeting, Tuesday, July 15, 2008 at the Diotalevi’s home, 24 Timber Lane, Bethany, CT

1. Secretary’s Report:
Minutes accepted from the last meeting.

2. Treasurer’s Report:.
Checking $11,686.91
Health Fund $3,399.56
Rescue fund $4,313.29

3. Election of Officers for 2008-2009 were voted on by membership and approved as follows:
President: Richard Loomis
Vice President: Kim Karkut
Treasurer: Rick Diotalevi
Corresponding Secretary: Valerie Mendizabal
Recording Secretary: Jan Norris
Board Members:
Crystal Ashe
Richard Bennington
Linda Morris
Ida Tenenbom
Joan Toepke

4. Next Meeting:
Board Meeting, Tuesday, July 15 at 7:00 p.m.
Location: Rick Diotalevi’s, 24 Timber Lane, Bethany, CT at 7:00 p.m.

Respectfully Submitted,
Patsy Dahlinghaus

Approved Minutes of the Board Meeting at Wood N Tap in Southington, CT on Wednesday, May 21, 2008.

Connecticut Valley Vizsla Club Board Meeting May 21, 2008 Wood n’ Tap, Southington, CT

Attendees: Jackie Argall, Kim Karkut, Ida Tenenbom, Sandy Jacobus, Rich Loomis, Patsy Dahlinghaus, Dennis Witzke, Joan Toepke, Susan Nakamura, Joan Heimbach

Next Meeting: General Membership Meeting, CVVC Specialty, Saturday, June 7, 2008

1. Secretary’s Report: Kim Karkut made a motion to accept the minutes and Ida seconded.

2. Treasurer’s Report: Carol was absent but forwarded the balances via email to Secretary.

We have enough votes so sending $250 to the Helen & Harry Gray Cancer Center in memory of Saul Himmelfarb.

Placed one dog 10 month old who couldn’t take the dog with them placed in Glastonbury and everything is good.

Ida mentioned that the procedures for the Conformation Committee and contacting the judges or sweeps judges prior to nominating them, the committee is working on the process.

Greenwich: Ida had the lists for contacting people for hospitality, she distributed some at the meeting and will contact members of the Conformation Committee to make calls.

Moving along well, application submitted and approved by AKC and working on judges. Budget has been submitted to the Board for approval. Patsy made a motion to accept budget and Kim seconded, budget approved.

Everything went well all expenses are in and FT showed a profit of $904.00. It should be noted that Kim Himmelfarb donated a number of vizsla items as well as field articles that helped support our raffle. Some of the items were used to compile a “field kit” for use by club members; that includes the starter pistol donated by Saul earlier in the year as well as flash collars, a stakeout, and other field related items.

(1) With the profit of $904.00 the FT Committee would like to protect the 2 way radios with weather covered lanyards 4 of them, both the hunt test and field trial committees can use these.

(2) Due to the increase of fuel costs etc. and to be able to have a resource of judges some that may have to travel a distance, she asked if the FT Committee could reserve $350.00 from this profit for judges travel fund. She noted that you will most likely see an increase cost of getting judges due to the economy.

Motion to accept the 4 covers for the radios price approximately $20.00 a piece, Patsy made a motion and Susan seconded, pass to purchase the covers for the radios. Joan will order the covers for the radios.

Motion to accept the Reserve for $350.00 for judges travel fund: Declined and suggested to submit a budget in October to reflect this travel fund for the judges and the Board can vote on the budget for that particular event at that time rather than have the reserve for this set aside in the general fund.

Discussion also followed that the donation of monies to offset some of the costs to run this event should be reflected in the final balance sheet so the Board recognizes the true cost to run such an event. Donations for the FT were in $100 dollars for dinner, trophies, etc.

Hunting Dog Stake, June 29, 2008 – Budget submitted, increased fees due to bird costs. Discussion regarding the fee for judges transportation and should it be across the board to all events. Kim Karkut made a motion to accept the revised budget and Joan Toepke seconded the revised budget approved.

Some members expressed an interest at Fun Day for some merchandise, an order will be put in when there is more to order. Sandy and Ida will bring samples to Greenwich, Fun Day and HD Stake.

Dr. Alexis Sutter and her team have very kindly volunteered their time for an Epilepsy blood draw at Manchester Veterinary Clinic in Manchester, CT. Tentative date the 13 of July in the afternoon, tentative time from 2:00-5:00. Susan checking out if the study for Epilepsy is winding down. Budget submitted is for $300.00 for the blood draw. Susan will forward to Rich Loomis a flyer to be printed and Susan will have them handed out at Greenwich and Longshore shows in June and the Fun Day and HD Stake the end of June.

Budget of $300.00 was previously approved by the Board, Joan to approve, Kim seconded.

Changes were made to the Budget and needs to be approved by the Board. Birds went up in price and the fees went up to compensate this increase. Strongly urge everyone to read the Versatility Guidelines on the VCA website.

12. New Membership: Debra Steele is absent although names have been submitted to Ida and will be published in the newsletter.

Rich Loomis asked if any nominations from the floor for officers, there were none. Officers will be voted in at the June meeting.

Joan Heimbach received video from Jen Hermes regarding rescue will refer to John Morris for review.

Rich Loomis shared an email from David Margolin which indicated that there is a motion sponsored by a Colorado shorthair club to eliminate retrieving stakes or modify them to a test, pass or fail, much like a hunt test. This creates cheap championships for field trials. The email went on to ask that you write letters to the AKC and or contact AKC Delegates and have them contact AKC direct stating that there is nothing wrong with the current requirements, they have worked well for many years and the stakes should not be eliminated or modified.

Kim motion to adjourn, Joan seconded meeting adjourned at 9:40 p.m., next meeting is at the June Specialty on the 7th, see you there