Canine Country Club

We are particularly interested in ideas for a memorial area for CCC members’ dearly departed dogs.  Discussions with the “brain trust” so far have led to the conclusion that we need the area to be off the ground and under shelter.  As you know, the sun, wind, rain and dogs really take their toll on things out here.  It has been suggested that we hang memorial plaques from a bone-shaped wooden base structure at the top of an opening on the gazebo, anchored somehow so they can’t blow too much in the wind.  We also have wondered about plaques around the inside perimeter of the gazebo at the base of the roof—and how about a peaceful sky scene, ala Michelangelo, under the dome of the roof?  We are in need of ideas for the plaques, and some of us would like the dogs’ photos on the plaques.  (I think we could offer both, depending on the owner’s preference).  Would you be willing to pay a reasonable amount for a memorial plaque like this?  Have you seen anything like this that you think would be appropriate for CCC?  Do you have any other ideas?  We would appreciate hearing from you regarding anything (especially anything positive;-) related to CCC!

CCC visitor Craig Hanusin brought this photo of himself with UNO, the 2008 Westminster Dog Show Champion.  The photo was taken February 21, 2009 at the Illinois Kennel Club International Dog Show in Chicago.

We were thrilled to have our daughter, grandson, and son-in-law here for Christmas!  Their arrival was delayed one day due to the ice and cold, and the Californians were chilly most of the time they were here!  Although Teri's parents were unable to make it home from Florida, Liam met all the rest his Valpo relatives, especially his two uncles, who were very anxious to meet him, and were uncharacteristically generous with his Christmas presents!  Our youngest son, Jim, has just completed his undergraduate degree in classical studies from Indiana University, and we're very proud of his accomplishment.  Does anyone know of a good job for a new college graduate?  (Our kids are shown under a picture of their great grandmother, whose house we live in today...)

our kids; Jess, Jim, & Dan

Four generations:  Liam, Jessica, Bob, and Mom, Grandma, Great Grandma, Evelyn

Fifteen hardy Weiner dogs raced on the blustery afternoon of Saturday the 24th.  The fence was lined with spectators both human and canine, and a good time was had by all.  I think we'll try to do it earlier in the month next year.  Still photos will be on the web site soon--but in the mean time, see the news section for the link to a  video clip sent in by racer owner and videographer Matthew Waters.  The race was won by Murphy Mapes, who happens to be a warm weather member here at CCC!   Congratulations to him and his owners, and thank you to our wonderful volunteers; Linda Knol, Patrick Bates, Patrick's friend whose name I don't know, Dave Gray and Ed Mioduski, as well as our sons Dan and Jim who donated their time in exchange for dinner that weekend.  Special thanks as always to my dear husband, "B", without whom the dog park and all our activities would not be possible.

We will be shutting off the water in the park next Monday, for the winter.  These past few days have been so nice, but it sounds like winter weather is on it's way. 

We spent a long Halloween weekend with our daughter and her family--especially our grandson!  Liam is now 2 months old, 24 inches long, and weighs in at 10# 12 oz.  Here's a picture of our little pumpkin!

This is just a reminder that the Porter County Fair starts on Thursday.  Our long term members know that this always means extra traffic on both Sturdy and Division roads.  This year's traffic promises to be particularly heavy since 49 is down to 1 lane with exits blocked and so forth, and there are signs up on west bound 30 advising drivers to take Sturdy to get to the fair.  This 10 day fair time is the most dangerous time of the year on Sturdy road. PLEASE LEASH YOUR DOGS FOR THEIR OWN SAFETY ! Our dog Jake's mangled foot came from a trailer being pulled down Sturdy road during fair week, 11 years ago. It's a bad decision we all live with every day.... please keep your dogs on leash outside the park.

We made a quick trip to San Diego this Memorial Day weekend to see our lovely daughter and celebrate her birthday with her. 

As you can see, our daughter is expecting our first grandchild in several months!  We just wish that she and her husband weren't 2000 miles away!  On the flight, I reviewed several articles and books I've collected regarding dog park etiquette and behavior.  I'm working on a flyer that I hope all our members will read, especially the many new members that we've acquired over the past month or so.  The more dogs and people that we have in the park, the more important observing the park rules and being vigilant of our dogs' behavior becomes.  Although I've not responded to everyone who has contacted us the past few weeks, rest assured that I am aware of several rule infringements, including occasional babies and children being brought into the park, and have addressed the "offenders" directly whenever possible.  I'm sorry to say that we also noticed the big pile of poop in the parking lot the week before last!  That sure makes a good impression of the CCC, doesn't it?  I ask everyone; old members, new members, and visitors, to please assist us in keeping the grounds clean by pointing out poops to those people who don't notice or ignore these bio-souvenirs that their dogs are leaving.  Please keep letting us know of folks disobeying the rules, or of dogs whose behavior is out of line.  We need and appreciate your helping us keep Canine Country Club a safe and fun place to play with our dogs.