Northwest Companion - Canine Companions for Independence

Northwest Companion
The Northwest Region of Canine Companions for Independence
Holiday 2008 issue: From the Director and Board President, Sponsor Tributes, Around the Region, Ways to
Support CCI This Holiday Season and Volunteer Spotlight
Canine Companions for Independence
Places 3,000th Assistance Dog
E
mily Elkins and her mom Kelly arrived from Portland,
diplomas they represented the 3,000th assistance dog graduate
OR on August 4, 2008 at the Jean and Charles Schulz
team. This is a milestone for CCI who has been providing
Campus in Santa Rosa, CA. They came to the Northwest
Regional Training Center and National Headquarters of CCI,
highly trained assistance dogs and ongoing support, free of
charge, to adults and children with disabilities since 1975.
to begin Team Training in the hopes of receiving an assistance
dog.
“This
represents
Emily is a bright and beautiful 13-year-old girl who uses
a wheelchair.
“I wanted a dog to help me open the refrigerator and other
doors,” explains Emily.
Her mom Kelly expands, “We knew that having an
assistance dog would increase Emily’s independence and also
act as a social bridge for her as she enters junior high.”
Never having been a “dog person”, Kelly wasn’t sure what to
expect from their experience at CCI, or from assistance dogs.
“Everything, person and dog at CCI has exceeded my
expectations,” shares Kelly.
“The instructors are incredible. Each person here needs
distinctively different help from their assistance dogs, and the
instructors have matched each student with the perfect dog for
them,” says Kelly.
the
thousands of lives
we
touch;
by
making one life
better we make a
whole community
better,”
says
Core y Hudson,
CEO. “Our dogs,
puppy raisers and
graduates touch
s o m a ny l ive s
each day – we
are proud of their
work and begin
The perfect assistance dog for Emily was Jacklyn, a
now to work on
beautiful black Labrador and Golden retriever cross. Emily, Kelly
the next 3 ,000
and Jacklyn officially became a graduate team at a graduation
placements.”
ceremony on August 16, 2008. As they received their CCI
The Northwest Companion Holiday Issue 2008
1
Kathy’s Corner
E
ach year it seems like the malls put up their holiday
and pouring. Thank you to
decorations earlier and earlier. And each year it catches
our voluncheers who prepare
me by surprise. I go right into a panic mode….wondering
and serve lunches during team
how can I possibly get everything done. I fondly remember and
teaming thus giving our gradu-
sometimes long for the simpler days.
ates a most welcomed breather
Coming from New York, Thanksgivings for me always
(not to mention a great meal).
included holding my dad’s hand and watching Snoopy, Bull-
Thank you to our dog bathers
winkle and Superman loom over my head. It meant anxiously
who lovingly console each pup
awaiting the last float which for adults signified the end of
as they get their first bath and
Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade but to every kid on Broadway
our docents who so effectively
it meant the first Santa sighting.
enhance community awareness
Holidays of various cultures often provide an opportunity
on the virtues of CCI. I thank
to bring loved ones together, to honor traditions or start new
our Heritage Society Members,
ones, to appreciate what we have and to reach out to those in
donors and Board Members for
need. As we enter into this holiday season of reflection and
their generosity of time and finan-
appreciation, I want to thank everyone who has helped the
cial support. I also want to thank
Northwest region and CCI regions across the United States.
my CCI co-workers for their passion and dedication. And
Kathy Pierson
Executive Director,
Northwest Region
Those who know me know I love quotations; here is a favorite of
last but certainly not least, I want to thank CCI Graduates,
mine for the holiday season from Eric Hoffer. “Feeling gratitude
Breeder Caretakers and Puppy Raisers for they are the heart
and not expressing it is like wrapping a present and not giving
and soul of this wonderful organization.
it.” At this time I want to thank our dog walkers who walk
Wishing you a safe and happy holiday season.
our dogs regardless of whether its 108 degrees out or 38 degrees
From the Board President
G
new board president, I am honored to represent the
engage fully and ensure that
board in this first President’s chair update. We have
we have the bandwidth and
made some exciting enhancements to the NW regional board
particular skills to achieve
this year that lay the foundation for the future. The board plans
our goals. There will surely
to be more active and present in CCI activities so that you
be more details in future
reetings from the Northwest Regional Board – as the
current board members to
know your board members and so that we understand how
updates- in the meantime, do
we can best help you in your role as CCI supporter, donor, or
not hesitate to contact me or
volunteer. We have embarked on a very energetic agenda for this
a fellow board member if you
year, which includes the creation and implementation of a new
have questions, ideas or just
strategic plan. This plan is designed to create specific, focused
want to know more about
action that each board member can take to further our board’s
the CCI Northwest Regional
overarching goals of fund development and community aware-
Board and our work. Call
ness. We also have re-chartered our board to ensure that we
1-800-572-BARK.
have the resources to help CCI reach its goals. We are increasing
our board size and diversity in terms of geographic coverage,
Meg-Monique Roe
President,
Northwest Region
Board of Directors
fund-raising networks, and areas of expertise. We have 5 new
board members this year, and a re-commitment from many
2
Canine Companions for Independence
Promotions
Andrea Woodcock
Apprentice II to Apprentice III
Chuck Dickinson
Apprentice III to Instructor
Erin Powers
Apprentice I to Apprentice II
James Dern
Apprentice II to Apprentice III
Linda Kwitchoff
Instructor Assistant
Meagan Avants
Kennel Supervisor
New Faces on Campus
Krista Hardcastle-Utarid
Volunteer Coordinator
Lindsay Janelle
Kennel Technician
February 21st
May 23rd
August
To Be Announced
November
To Be Announced
Meaghan Donahue
Kennel Technician
Neena Gleeson
Puppy Program Assistant
Location: Center for Spiritual Living, Santa Rosa, CA
Visit www.cci.org/northwest
and click on “Graduation” for:
• Directions to a Ceremony
• Hearing Team Training Dates
• Updates and Announcements
GRADUATION 2009
The Northwest Companion Holiday Issue 2008
3
Tribute to Our Sponsors
O
n behalf of the staff and volunteers of CCI and the
Celebrity Chef Sponsors and Participants
people that we serve, I would like to take this oppor-
Bark Avenue:
$15,000
tunity to graciously thank our sponsors for their truly
Frontline • Heartgard
inspired giving. Celebrity Chef 2008, “A Tail of Two Cities” in
Santa Rosa CA., with its title sponsor, Merial LTD., the makers
of Frontline Plus and Heartgard Plus, was the most successful
Northwest annual event in our history, breaking both attendance
and revenue records. The 6th annual “A Gift of Miracles” dinner
and auction, in Renton WA., with its title sponsor KSC Freight,
was the most financially successful annual event in the history of
the Puget Sound Chapter. The 7th annual “Dawgs in the Ruff,”
golf tournament held at the Granite Bay Golf Club, in Granite
Bay CA. with its title sponsor Bank of the West, maintained
the excellence that we have come to expect from the Gold
Rush Champions Chapter. Thank you for making 2008 a banner
year.—Daniel Y. Harris, Northwest Director of Development
Sniffth Avenue:
$10,000
S.D. Deacon •
Allison R. Levy
Ball Street:
$5,000
Jerry & Jan Alexander • Betty
Freeman • Liberty Mutual
• Wayne & Anne Gittinger •
Charlie & Margie Krystofiak
Central Bark:
$2,500
Exchange Bank • Glenn
& Maureen Foley • Kevin
Krystofiak • Drs. Graham
& Pauline Parry • PG&E •
Bruce & Ruth Schomaker •
Carol Weldin • Wells Fargo
Bank
The Bowery:
$1,000
Celebrity Chef, “A Tail of Two Cities”
H
eld at the Jean and Charles Schulz Campus in Santa
Rosa California, “A Tail of Two Cities” honored the
opening of the Miller Family Campus in New York and
the Jean and Charles Schulz Campus in Santa Rosa with New York Style Street Fair. Five hundred and seventy-five people were
in attendance. The event raised a net of $165,000.
Event Chair:
Bonnie McMellon, Northwest Development Associate
Committee: Daniel Y. Harris, Northwest Director of Development, Sharon Beckman, Northwest Board Member, Carol Weldin,
Northwest Board Member, Noni Beldin, Maureen Butler, John
Consedine, Emily Elder, Suzanne, Howell, Linda Jackson, Joan
Papathakis and Phyllis Thomas
ABD Insurance Services •
Resa Allison • David & Sharon
Beckman • Comcast • Dal
Poggetto & Company • First
Republic Bank • Oak Grove
Construction • Anthony Gaas
• John Giacomazzi • Jetronics
Company • Russ Gurevitch &
Terry Van Horn • Jackson &
Hertogs, LLP • Jenny Kerry
& Vern Tyerman • Steve
& Debbie Kiddoo • John
McKinney & Sue Campbell •
McDevitt & McDevitt • Mutual
of America • One to One
Learning Center • Sausalito
Lions Club • Summit Bank
• Tawny & Norene • Jack &
Judy Warnock
Chefs
Barking Dog Coffee • Rick
Bruno ~ Bruno’s on Fourth
• Chad Carlstedt ~ Classic
Culinaire • Cold Stone
Creamery • East Bay Miracles
Chapter Group • KZST Radio
Personalities Brent Farris
and Debbie Abrams • Melissa
Teaff Catering • Roger Gafner
~ Pizzio’s Cucina Italiana •
Preferred Sonoma Caterers
Caterers Rocker Oysterfeller’s
Kitchen and Saloon • Ruth
Lefkowitz ~ Ruthy’s Real
Meals • San Francisco
Baking Institute • Troy
Anker ~ Sam’s 4 Play
Café • Sebastopol Cookie
Company • Skyhawk Village
Market ~ The Kitchen at
Skyhawk • Sonoma Cake
Creations • Trader Joe’s •
Julie and Riccardo Cattaneo
~ Trattoria Annadeli • The
Tides Wharf Restaurant •
Didier Hevin ~ White Toque
Wineries
Alexander Valley Vineyards
• BR Cohn Winery • Carol
Shelton Wines • Charles
Creek Winery • Cru Vin
Dogs Wine Group • Don
Sebastiani and Sons • Enzo
Wines Oakville • Foppiano
Vineyards • Harvest
Moon Estate and Winery
• Kenwood Vineyards •
Korbel Champagne Cellars
• Lake Sonoma Winery
• Mahoney Vineyards
• Martin Ray Winery •
Michel-Schulmberger • Mill
Creek Vineyard and Winery
• Moondance Cellars ~ The
Friendly Dog Winery • Mutt
Lynch Winery • Pedroncelli
Winery • Peterson Winery
• Ravenswood Winery •
Sausal Winery • Valley of
the Moon • VC Cellars •
Wattle Creek Winery
Participating
Brewery
Sierra Nevada Brewing
Company
Committee Advisors: Kathi Noe, Northwest Board
Member, M-L Reinking, “Bobbie’s Mom” and Bonnie Willette
4
Canine Companions for Independence
“A Gift of Miracles”
T
he Gift of Miracles Auction was held at The Spirit of Washington Event Center in Renton, Washington. The Seattle
Mariners, Mariner’s Wives and Mariner’s Care were recognized for their generous time, energy and support in making
the 2001, 2002, and 2007 Mariners/CCI calendars a success. Masters of Ceremonies: JP Patches and Patti Payne. Auctioneer:
Chuck Whitman. Guests included Terry and Raul Ibanez. The event raised a net of $90,000.
Event Chairs:
Tanya Carter and Angie Jennen
Committee: Irene King: Treasurer, Northwest Board, Jeanie
Johnston: President, Puget Sound Chapter, Ann Beebe, Glennda
Cartner, Gene Clark, Tammie Devore, John and Karen Elliott,
Taylor Hasson, Kathi and Jerry Reilly, Kevin and Cindy Swett,
Andrew Walker, Patti Whitmarsh and Kyle and Debra Young
Title Sponsor: $10,000
KSC Freight
Platinum Sponsor: $5,000 Kevin Swett Photography
Robert Auguston
Silver Sponsor: $1,000
TransGroup Worldwide Logistics
Bronze Sponsor: $500
Dr. Richard Jennen
Irene King, Daniel Y. Harris, Kathy Pierson, Kevin Swett
and puppy-in-training Lilly and Debbie Kiddoo
“Dawgs in the Ruff.”
Event Chairs:
Jill Quan, Cindy Lawton,
D
Committee: Joan Buntin Amy Bush, Patty Daniel, Pam
Flanagan, Mo Nard, Bev Pimentel, Kathy Ulm, Lisa Waterman,
Suzzanne Wharton, Steff Wilson, Carol Wymore and Stephanie
Yun
awgs in the Ruff was held at the Granite Bay Golf Club,
in Granite Bay California. 100 golfers participated. The
highlight of the event was an inspiring speech by Lisa
Waterman facilitator for Bryce II, a.k.a. Bryce the Wonder Dog.
The event raised a net of $40,000.
Signature Sponsor: $10,000 • Bank Of The West
Gold Level: $3,000 • CALSTAR • Med Center Medical
Clinic • The Setzer Foundation
Pin Flag Sponsor: $2,000 • VSP
Center Lunch Sponsor: $1,500 401 Diagnostic
Golf Cart Sponsor: $1,500 • PacifiCare/United
Healthcare
Blue Level: $1,000 • BBA • Clo Puppy • Hanson
McClain, Inc. • The Golden 1 Credit Union
CCI Appreciation Sponsor: $1,000 • Cindy
Lawton
Photo by Jim Buntin
A Wonderful Day on the Green
The Northwest Companion Holiday Issue 2008
Tee Box Sponsor: $250 • A Tribute to PRESLEY •
Eberle Remodeling • Friends of REISIG • Goodblackdogs •
H.H Engineering Construction, Inc. • In Honor of ADIT
Thyme III • In Honor of Sable’s Retirement From CCI Service
• In Memory of MAIZIE • Johnsen Construction • Keller
Williams Realty • Marcia Hager • Margaret Keefe • Primal
Needs Behavioral Solutions • Rowina’s Pups • Carly & Laurie
- Downtown Puppy Raisers • The Bunko Babes • The Shuttle
Lady • University Medical Imaging
5
Around the Region
Pierson, Northwest Puppy Program Manager, Lorna O’Connor,
Northwest Director of Development, Daniel Y. Harris, Contract
R
South Bay
eading to Dogs continues to be a “pupular” event in the
South Bay. We have made appearances at many libraries
in San Jose this year and expanded to Milpitas and
Palo Alto. This is a literacy program targeting young reluctant
readers. South Bay
Raul and Terry Ibanez.
Skilled Companion team,
Dylan and Liz Zeitlin
with Mary, talked about
how Mary has changed
their lives and inspired the
attendees to donate over
CCI dogs have
$31,000 to the Fund a Team
helped open the
Training portion of the
world of books
evening. Co-Chairs Tanya
to many children.
Carter and Angie Jennen
Breeders Calla,
Suz y,
Trainer, Terry Smith and
did an outstanding job,
Jennifer,
setting a chapter standard
and Angel were
and netting a chapter record of $90,000. Thank you to all of our
even recognized
dedicated CCI puppy raisers and volunteers for their hard work
by the West Valley Library with Breeder Caretakers Linda Smith and Herb
and Pauline Lewis for their volunteer service to the literacy
in making this a very enjoyable and successful evening.
Congratulations! —Jeanie Johnstone, Chapter President
Cascade
program.
On May 17th CCI dogs helped Build a Bear launch their
Assistance Dog campaign. New public events on our calendar
this year were the “Zoofari” with Hope Services, Take Flight
for Kids with the VMC Foundation, and a Disability Awareness
Fair with the City of San Jose. The Concours d’Elegance with
the Palo Alto Lions Club, the Autism Conference at Santa Clara
University with the Morgan Center, and Bark in the Park in
San Jose continue to put CCI in touch with large numbers of
people. New corporate events this year were at Net App in
Sunnyvale and Microsoft in Mt. View. IBM’s Silicon Valley Lab
in San Jose continues to invite us to help kick off their charitable
giving campaign. The last event of the year for us is the Los
Gatos Holiday Parade on December 6th. Come and meet our
CCI breeders, puppies in training and graduate teams. We’re
there for two hours before the parade begins.
If you would like CCI representation at your event
or to do a presentation to your club, school, or organization, please contact our info line at 408-257-6860. —Linda Cortez, Chapter President
O
Puget Sound
T
he Cascade Chapter is a small chapter but a very
dedicated one. The members of our chapter are looking
forward to a year filled with generating awareness about
CCI and its mission. We have many events and presentations
with the Lions Project for CCI, General Federation of Women’s
Clubs, and other Point of Entry events facilitated by volunteers.
We will soon be teaming up with Petco over the holiday season
to raise money and awareness for CCI through Petco’s Tree of
Hope project. For years several Petco stores in the Portland
area have supported us through the money raised during this
project and we are grateful for this avenue to educate people
about CCI.
On the volunteer front we have even more volunteers stepping up to the plate to help the local prison puppy raising
program at Coffee Creek Correctional Facility. There are 6
new puppies who arrived in Portland recently. Right now the
puppies are in the homes of volunteer puppy starters learning
the basics before they move into the facility in November.
The Portland Veterinary Medical Association, who connects
the program with sponsoring veterinarians, has also stepped
up to the plate again to help make this program a success. The
n September 27th, the Renton Event Center in WA was
Coffee Creek Puppy Program is able to continue because of
transformed into a “Pawsitively Priceless” venue for
the support of volunteers, the Lions, CCI, CCCF, sponsoring
the 6th Annual Gift of Miracles Auction. Patti Payne
vets, and the PVMA.
and J.P. Patches were Masters of Ceremony. Chuck Whitman
We’re a small but visible group. Expect to see flashes of
was the auctioneer. KSC Freight was title sponsor. Among
yellow or blue capes throughout Oregon and SW Washington
the 200 attendees, were Northwest Executive Director, Kathy
in the next year. We will be out there letting people know
6
Canine Companions for Independence
East Bay Miracles
about the miracles that happen with CCI. For more information
and/or to volunteer, please contact Heather Ohmart by phone
503-281-8878 or by email, heather@gooddogsit.com.
—Heather Omart, Chapter President
A
s we leave the dog days of summer, we recall the great
outdoor events with our awesome dogs wowing people
to come to the CCI booth for a new understanding
of the power of canines. Hundreds of people visited our booth
at the Solano Stroll. The puppies, the graduate dogs and even
the change of career dogs melted the hearts of many, simply
by lying on their beds. They spread the message of Canine
Companions for Independence with their big brown eyes or
a wag of the tail.
Our chapter celebrated its first anniversary on September 7th
with a pool party in Danville at the home of Dave and Kristen
Trisko. Over fifty people and twenty dogs played doggie games,
Gold Rush
A
ccording to the history books the California Gold Rush
ended in 1855. We have a little secret to share. This
area has been mighty productive this past year due
to a revolutionary technique never before used in the mining
industry…the use of FUR. This is exceptional fur of black and
gold handled only by those with the biggest of hearts. Our
generous donors were S.D. Deacon ($10,000) and the Walgreens
Distribution Center of Woodland ($43,000). Now, we do have
another mine that we started from just a scratch in the ground
back in 2001. We call it the “Dawgs in the Ruff ” golf tournament
and thanks to the annual support of Bank of the West ($10,000)
and the incredible effort by nearly one hundred of our chapter
members, this “mine” has yielded over $400,000 in 8 years with
$40,000 coming in 2008. While the work is not easy, we had
a fantastic graduate speaker who
reminded us that
“this is special gold
that is woven into
miracles…or in this
case a super hero” Lisa Waterman is
swam in the pool and enjoyed a great barbecue dinner provided
by Dublin Lions Club. It was exciting to see how much our
chapter has grown over the year.
Our appearance at Celebrity Chef was a first for a chapter. East Bay Miracles chefs whipped up some fine chocolate
bones, goodies and special dipped white chocolate milk bones,
chocolate dipped strawberries, and treat bags for all the dogs. It
took countless hours to dip 1200 milkbones in white chocolate.
Preparing the chocolate bones for the humans was also a daunting task. What a great group of volunteers to help with bone
making and serving at Celebrity Chef.
October brought our second annual Halloween Party at
Lake Chabot, an East Bay Regional Park, in Castro Valley. It
was a beautiful Sunday in the park. More exciting doggie games,
another great barbecue provided by Castro Valley Lions Club
and of course the ever popular costume contest for our four
legged friends. Prizes galore for the great costumes and ten year
old Charlie, who was preparing for team training the following
Sunday, with his mom Kathy, leading the pet parade around the
park. Charlie and his family received a very warm welcome into
the world of CCI as we all wished them well for their upcoming two weeks of
team training.
Our holiday
a teacher in the
party in Decem-
Elk Grove school
ber will have a
district and facilitator for Bryce II, a.k.a. Bryce the Wonder
visit from Santa,
Dog. Lisa shared that Bryce did master a long list of commands,
dogs dressed for
but no where on this list did it say “X-ray vision.” His is not
the season and
the type of x-ray vision that would be useful at an airport. It
food and games
is much more special. Bryce’s x-ray vision lets him see through
for all. For further
a child’s disability to their soul. Enough said.
information on
For more information visit, goldrushchampions.com or
that event and our
contact Jill Quan at president@goldrushcchampions.com
chapter, please go to ccieastbaymiracles@yahoogroups.com.
—Jill Quan, Chapter President
—Marianne Dimick, Chapter President
The Northwest Companion Holiday Issue 2008
7
Ways To Support CCI
Three easy ways to make a tribute donation to CCI
Workplace Giving
H Fill out and return the envelope found between pages 8 and
9 of this newsletter to CCI.
H Many employers have programs that support charitable
giving. Please check with your employer to find out about
H Make your gift online at www.cci.org/donate. Our website
workplace giving or matching gift opportunities that can
gives donors the option to send an instant eCard with a
customized message. You may also choose to have CCI mail
the recipient a card for you with your customized message.
H Call us toll-free at 1-866-CCI-DOGS (1-866-224-3647). CCI
accepts VISA, MasterCard and American Express.
:
support CCI.
Federal Employees
H Did you know you can contribute to Canine Companions
through your combined Federal Campaign (CFC)? Simply
designate Canine Companions for Independence as your
“Charity of Choice” on your pledge form. The 2008 CFC
number for Canine Companions for Independence is
11647.
Join eScrip
H Help Canine Companions for Independence while you
shop! eScrip is easy and free to join. Contribute to CCI
by registering your credit, debit, and grocery/retail cards.
Shop at select eScrip merchant partners and CCI receives
a percentage of purchases. There is no fee to join and
registration is easy.
H Visit escrip.com and select “sign-up”
Become a CCI Miracle Maker
CCI Miracle Makers are people who contribute a fixed sum
every month through their credit cards or checking accounts.
H Search for “Canine Companions” as the group name
H Fill in your information
H Start shopping!
Miracle Makers provide a steady stream of income to CCI –
providing important funding for such things as training, puppy
care, and follow up visits with our graduate teams. Enroll
today to become a CCI Miracle Maker!
Donate Stock
H Another way to help CCI is by making a gift of appreciated stock. There may be a tax savings to you and your
H For as little as $10 a month, you
gift will help Canine Companions for Independence con-
can partner with Canine Compan-
tinue to provide exceptional dogs for exceptional people.
ions for Independence and truly
Please contact. Alan Feinne at 707-577-1799 or via email at make a difference for adults and
afeinne@cci.org for more information.
children living with disabilities.
H Visit www.cci.org/donate and
select “Monthly Gifts” or call
1-866-224-3647 today.
8
Making a Difference
One Gift at a Time
Canine Companions for Independence
The Season Of Giving Is Upon Us
As the holidays draw near and you start
making a list of people to shop for, don’t
forget to stop by the CCI gift shop.
H Holiday cards and 2009 Calendars are available now
H Pick up the latest in CCI apparel for men, women and
children
H Soft cuddly plush puppies make excellent stockingstuffers
Visit any time online at: www.cci.org/giftshop Or in person on at the Schulz Campus
Gift Shop Monday 9am-4:30pm and
Tuesday - Friday 10am to 4pm.
Shop at Corrick’s on 4th Street in Downtown Santa Rosa and
Support CCI
Corrick’s will donate $5 to CCI, for each dog ornament that is purchased throughout
2009. CCI thanks Corrick’s for their generosity and support of our mission to provide
Exceptional Dogs for Exceptional People®.
Visit Corrick’s today at 637 Fourth Street, Downtown Santa Rosa, CA 95404 Or visit
them on the web at www.corricks.com
The Northwest Companion Holiday Issue 2008
9
Team Training Yearbook
Spring & Summer Graduates
May 2008 Service Class
L to R: Heidi and Mitchell Ball with Lynelle; Lou-Jean and Taylor Buxton
with Barina; Libby, Ricky and Rory Swift with Cookie II and John and
Lynne Schueman with Brody.
May 2008 Skilled Companion Class
L to R: Emma, Tracey and Maddie Kucer with Kenneth; Cameron, Dan
and Jamie Cardle with Mellis; Kiley, Steve and Rozie McClay with Billy
III; Walter, Kevin and Tina Underwood and with Loken; Sara, Claire,
Julie, Ron and Jack Gambassi with Zane.
June 2008 Hearing Class
From L to R: Arthur and Marie Hareden with Aiobe; Gregory Awalt and
Brook Myers-Awalt with Thionie; Kathy and Brad Taylor with Janet III.
Hearing Class
L to R: Deborah Adels with
Angelina and Connie Gupton with
Homer IV.
.
Join CCI Online
Connect with Canine Companions supporters online by joining our official groups
at facebook.com, myspace.com and YouTube.com.
10
Canine Companions for Independence
Team Training Yearbook
Spring & Summer Graduates
August 2008 Service and Facility Class
From L to R: Fraser Sime with Savana II; Ike Wesley with Sonoma
II; Tom Laythe with Odie IV; Edward Barker with Riva; Caren Hill with
Lacey III and Donald Ryker, Andrea Bowers with Leora.
August 2008 Skilled Companion Class
L to R: Larry, Colin and Maureen Kiely with Tamra II; Amy Cody and
Shauna Gumbel with Tim V; Amy Van den Boom, Thomas and Mark
Wermiel with Lady V; Liz and Tyler McKinnon with Bet and Kelly and
Emily Elkins with Jacklyn.
Canine Companions for Independence Announces Partnership with The San Francisco SPCA
Hearing Dogs Continue Providing Independence
in Northern California
C
anine Companions for Independence® (CCI) and The San Francisco SPCA (The SF/SPCA) have formed a partnership
to transfer SPCA Hearing Dog applicants to CCI. The San Francisco SPCA has provided Hearing Dogs for many years,
however will no longer be placing Hearing Dogs with new partners in order to focus its resources on the core mission of
saving and protecting animal’s lives. Canine Companions will work with The SF/SPCA to provide
support for applicants currently on The SF/SPCA Hearing Dog wait list. This partnership will
help fill the need for those waiting for a Hearing Dog.
Canine Companions CEO Corey Hudson said, “Providing Hearing Dogs is at the core of
our mission, and we look forward to being able to serve more individuals with highly
trained dogs to enhance their independence.”
Canine Companions for Independence Hearing Dogs recognize and
respond to sounds, such as a doorbell, telephone, alarm clock, smoke
alarm or someone calling a name. The dogs alert their partners, for
example, to these key sounds by making physical contact with them
such as nudging the leg or arm.
“We are very pleased to have formed a working
relationship with CCI and are confident that the
agency will successfully meet the needs of former
SF/SPCA Hearing Dog Program applicants,” said Jan
McHugh-Smith, president of The SF/SPCA.
To learn more about Hearing Dogs or learn how
you can support the work of trained assistance dogs,
visit cci.org or call 1-800-572-BARK.
The Northwest Companion Holiday Issue 2008
11
Ask Dr. Ruth
W
hat is hip dysplasia and how has CCI been able
number of dogs that develop hip
to reduce the number of dogs that develop hip
dysplasia by 18% in the past 17
dysphasia in CCI’s breeding colony?
years. This reduction has been
­—Daniel Y. Harris
accomplished by careful selection
of breeding stock. One of the
Canine Hip Dysplasia (CHD) is a congenital disease that mainly
ways CCI has accomplished this
affects large breed dogs. The word “dysplasia” means improper
reduction is by selecting dogs
growth. Hip dysplasia can be described as a faulty or abnormal
with tight Penn HIP scores.
development of the hip. In CHD, the hip becomes loose and
A Penn HIP score is deter-
wobbly, eventually leading to a form of arthritis, which is
mined by a Penn HIP x-ray,
commonly referred to as Degenerative Joint Disease (DJD).
which is one set of x-rays that
Environmental
CCI dogs receive when they enter Advanced Training. This
conditions
score determines how much potential movement there is in the
such as amount
hip, which leads to CHD. See photo to the left for the difference
of
between a dog with CHD and one without CHD.
p hy s i c a l
exercise and
weight
g ain
contribute to
the
dise ase,
and bring out
symptoms.
CCI
reduced
has
the
Do you have a question for Dr. Ruth?
Please send it to: Canine Companions for Independence Attn: Ask Dr. Ruth
2965 Dutton Avenue, Santa Rosa, CA 95407.
Email: rdaniels@cci.org
If your question is selected, you will be named and
responded to in upcoming editions of the Northwest
Companion.
Stocking Stuffers — Holiday Gift Cards
F
or the first time at Canine Companions
for Independence, you can purchase
wallet-sized gift cards to make a dona-
tion in someone’s honor – family, friends or
dog!
The gift cards are available in two designs,
holiday snow and general gift, and can be
purchased in any denomination (minimum
$10).
The cards make perfect gifts for the person
who has everything or for a party host. You
can easily place them in a greeting card or
attach them to a package to let your friend
or loved one know that you made a gift that
changed a life in their honor.
Get them while they last at www.cci.org/donate
or at the Schulz Campus Gift Shop.
Front of Gift Card
12
Back of Gift Card
Canine Companions for Independence
It’s In the Genes
The story of a CCI release dog
By Kathy Zastrow, Northwest Board Member and 17- time Puppy Raiser
T
en years ago our family raised Walden (aka Wally) a
Wally was successful
beautiful black Labrador-Golden Retriever Cross, our
and graduated as a
5th CCI puppy. We sent him off to Advanced Training
search dog. He was
with high hopes that he would be a successful CCI Service Dog
teamed with a fire-
graduate. Wally’s monthly training reports were good, but some
man from Anaheim.
of the trainer’s comments were that he was enthusiastic, full
They are now retired
of life and environmentally alert which are not always positive
but during Wally’s
for a potential Service Dog.
working career, he
Well into the second semester we got the dreaded call that he
went every day to
was not suitable to be placed with a disabled person. We were
the fire station with
upset for we felt he was meant to be a working dog and not just
his partner where
a pet. The trainers also agreed with us so we started looking for
they practiced his
alternative placement for him. We connected with the National
skills - always ready
Disaster Search Dog Foundation, another nonprofit organiza-
for deployment. When their shift was over they went home
tion. A representative went to the Northwest campus and tested
where Wally was a pet to the entire family. Now, he is enjoying
5 dogs. Wally and another dog, Val were accepted into their
his retirement.
Photo by Bonnie McMellon
program. After about 3 months, I was able to speak with Wally’s
Wally with his partner went on to do many great things.
trainer and was invited to visit their training facility to see his
He even holds the title of IRON DOG. As the puppy raisers
progress. The trainer put him through a very advanced agility
of Wally, we are very proud that he was a successful graduate
course. I was impressed by what they had trained him to do
doing the right job that he was suited for. You can read more
and he was noticeably proud to show me what he had learned.
about Wally by going to www.searchdogfoundation.org.
Bliss to You —Trixie
Good News About IRA’s
T
I
lived a life of
Dave Bonfilio, National Planned Giving Officer, at dbonfilio@
bliss. From her
cci.org or at 1-866-224-3647. Make the promise of independence
early days as a
a reality for a person with a disability.
rixie
Koontz,
Dean
Koontz’s dog ,
f you know anyone who is 70 or older, they can support
CCI by making a distribution directly from their IRA to
CCI. Congress has extended this popular gift provision to
include 2008 and 2009. For more information, please contact
CCI assistance
dog
to
her
retirement years
with best selling
author
Dean
Koontz and his
wife Gerda, to
her own success
as an author—life
was good for Trixie. This beautiful Golden Retriever, with the
heart of an angel, passed away in 2007 but her wisdom lives on
in a warm, funny and inspiring new book. Bliss to You—Trixie’s
Guide to a Happy Life was released on September 16, 2008 and
is available now at www.cci.org/giftshop.
The Northwest Companion Holiday Issue 2008
13
Volunteer Spotlight
Article and photo by
Bonnie McMellon, CCI Development Associate
M
arcee Pfaff learned about CCI when her daughter
her belt, Marcee thought she would have the time and energy
Kaity was very young. It was then that Marcee
for another breeder, so she brought Thistle II home this last
decided, “someday I would like to volunteer at CCI,
summer. The family is hopeful that Thistle will have her first
perhaps in the kennels.”
litter in early 2009.
One day shortly after losing Jack, the family hound of 11
When asked what a typical day is like for her as a breeder
years, Marcee saw an ad in Fetch the Paper expressing CCI’s
caretaker, Marcee says, “it always starts with Kora and Thistle
need for breeder caretakers. Her husband Terry thought it
sitting patiently next to her bed staring at her until the “feed us
sounded ideal for her, so with his support she gave CCI a call.
now” vibe wakes her up. After the dogs, donkey and chickens
That was in November 2005. Now Marcee, her daughter Kaity
are all fed, it is nap time for the dogs. Waiting for someone
who is now 18, and Terry are very much a part of CCI.
to wake up and feed you breakfast is very tiring! If there is
While Marcee and her family waited for her first breeder
a litter of pups here, the chores start, but I have found no
dog, she fulfilled her long time wish to volunteer in the kennels
matter how many puppies there are in the puppy pen, all it
and that was just the beginning. In addition to volunteer-
takes is for all those faces to turn towards you and the tails
ing in the kennels, Marcee also started
volunteering in the grooming room, at
presentation booths and serving lunch
to our Graduates during Team Training.
“There are volunteer opportunities for
every lifestyle at CCI. Even if you are not
able to raise a puppy or keep a breeder,
there are many other ways to help out.
You can walk dogs, give them baths or
help out at fundraisers and booths. Being
even a small part of what goes on at CCI
“Being even a small
part of what goes on
at CCI is amazing
and rewarding.”
is amazing and rewarding.”
caring for the basic needs of the
puppies Marcee also continues to
foster puppies and breeder dogs of
her fellow breeder caretakers on a
regular basis. It is not uncommon
for her husband Terry to come
home to find another dog or two
in the house, much to his gentle
chagrin.
In addition to fulfilling her
In June 2006 Kora became a part of
Marcee’s family. In February of 2007 Kora delivered her first litter
to start wagging, then the chores
don’t seem bad.” In addition to
desire to give back to CCI, Marcee
has made several close friends along the way including her best
of three puppies named Lilo, Lanica and Lanelle. In March of
friend fellow breeder caretaker of Dara II, Ann Akers. “The
2008 Kora delivered her second litter of three puppies named
support and friendship I receive from fellow breeder caretakers
Tanika, Taryn and Taya. With two litters of three puppies under
is amazing. The team is always available to work out kinks,
concerns or just to be there. The members of the Breeder
Council and the other Breeder Caretakers have been amazing
resources and friends.”
At some point amid all her volunteer activities Marcee
started to change, a change that was noticeable to her friends
and family. A self described wallflower, Marcee says; “I have
always been extremely bashful when talking to new people.
Volunteering has enabled me to get out in public and talk to
people. Now, if I am at a CCI booth, I can talk your ear off.”
CCI is honored to have Marcee as a dedicated volunteer. It is
volunteers like her that are the very heart of CCI.
If you are interested in learning more about becoming a
breeder caretaker or the numerous other volunteer opportunities at CCI, please contact our Volunteer Coordinator, Krista
Hardcastle-Utarid at khardcastle-utarid@cci.org or call 1-800572-BARK.
14
Canine Companions for Independence
Volunteers of the Month
T
his past winter
me in ways that I never thought possible for a volunteer posi-
I was having
tion. A couple of months after starting at CCI, I ran into my
dinner over at
friend and told him I was volunteering at CCI and how much
the house of a recently
I enjoyed the work. Well, low and behold, it turned out he was
retired friend and he
not a volunteer at CCI but at a different organization. It was
was telling us about how
by accident that I ended up at CCI and it is one mistake that
he started to volunteer
I am sure glad that I made!
at an organization that
I
’ve been involved
raised service dogs. I
with CCI for over
thought to myself that
3 years. I started
this sounded like something that I would be
out fostering puppies
interested in doing in
which lead to becoming
my free time. The next
morning I did an internet
John Consedine
a puppy raiser, which
lead to becoming a
search and found CCI. In March, I took a tour of the campus
breeder caretaker, which
with the other new volunteers and I was very impressed with
lead to helping out when
how clean the kennel facilities were and how happy the dogs
needed. I really enjoy
were in the kennels. That is why I decided that working in
being a “Voluncheer” for
the kennels was where I would like to volunteer. I have since
Team Training and get-
expanded my volunteer duties to include helping with mailings
ting to meet the people
and graduations. Most recently, I acted as the Facilities Chair
receiving a CCI dog. All
for the benefit Celebrity Chef, “A Tail of Two Cities” that was
of the recipients of CCI
held this past September. I have found the staff at CCI to be
dogs that I have met, are
the most caring, friendly, fun and professional people that I have
the most amazing and
ever had the privilege to work with. My duties have challenged
courageous people.
Maureen Foley and
breeder Delhi
Welcome Aboard Krista
K
rista Hardcastle-Utarid comes to CCI from the
Volunteer Center of Sonoma County where she
helped coordinate the Human Race, Sweet-
hearts Ball and the Giving Tree. Prior to that she spent
5 years as a teacher and algebra tutor, and 15 years in
the hospitality industry. Born and raised in Santa Rosa,
Krista has lived all over California and in Maui. She is
also an aspiring writer of children’s novels.
Krista says, “In my work at CCI, I am privileged
to support so many volunteers in their dedication to a
mission of an organization that means so much to them
and to me. I am lucky to be here!”
The Northwest Companion Holiday Issue 2008
15
Northwest Regional Board
Non-Profit Org.
U.S. Postage
PAID
by Canine Companions for
Independence
Officers
Meg-Monique Roe, President Oakland, CA
Debra L. Kiddoo, Vice President Santa Rosa, CA
Sharon K. Beckman, Secretary Santa Rosa, CA
Northwest Regional Center P.O. Box. 446 Santa Rosa, CA 95402-0446
Irene King, Treasurer Issaquah, WA
Address Service Requested
Dated Material - Please Expedite
Members
Linda Cortez
San Jose, CA
Jon Provost Santa Rosa, CA
Jane Hennessey
San Francisco, CA
Sally Simcoe Roseville, CA
Charles Krystofiak
Redwood City, CA
Marlene Siminow San Francisco, CA
Jill Wright Leverton
Napa, CA
Jack Warnock San Francisco, CA
John S. McKinney
Healdsburg, CA
Carol C. Weldin Alamo, CA
Lin Nelson
Sparks, NV
Betsy Wendt Issaquah, WA
Kathi Noe
Santa Rosa, CA
Kathy A. Zastrow El Dorado Hills, CA
Offices
National Headquarters
Northwest Regional Center
2965 Dutton Avenue, PO Box 446 Santa Rosa, CA 95402-0446 (707) 577-1700 Voice (707) 577-1756 TTY
Northeast Regional Center
PO Box 205, Farmingdale, NY 11735-0205 (631) 694-6938 Voice/TTY
Southeast Regional Center
PO Box 680388, Orlando, FL 32868-0388 (407) 522-3300 Voice
North Central Regional Center
4989 State Route 37 East, Delaware, OH 43015-9682 (740) 548-4447 Voice/TTY
Chicago Satellite Office
PO Box 41, Woodstock, IL 60098 (847) 816-7360 Voice
Southwest Regional Center
PO Box 4568, Oceanside, CA 92052-4568 (760) 901-4300 Voice (760) 901-4326 TTY
Colorado Satellite Office
1045-P Garden of the Gods Rd, Colorado Springs, CO 80907 (719) 260-6151 Voice
Email: info@cci.org
Credits
The Northwest Companion is published two times a year for
distribution to supporters, volunteers and graduates. ©2008
Canine Companions for Independence, Inc. All rights reserved.
Printed in USA.
Canine Companions for Independence,® its logo, and
Exceptional Dogs for Exceptional People® are trademarks of
Canine Companions for Independence, Inc.
NEWSLETTER COORDINATORS: Bonnie McMellon
and Daniel Y. Harris
PRODUCTION: Amy Koman and Bonnie McMellon
PRINTER: GPM
16
Santa Paws Comes to Town
T
he holiday season is here and
it is time for you
and your pets to scurry
and scamper on down
to Western Farm Center
to have a color photo of
you and your pet taken!
Well-behaved animals
ranging from horses,
snakes, chickens, cats
and of course dogs are
welcome to come and
have their picture taken
on Saturday, December 6th and Saturday, December 13th from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Last year’s event raised over $5,000 in three days. CCI would like to thank Larry
and Rosie Bertolini, owners of Western Farm Center for opening their hearts and
their business to CCI again this year.
Western Farm Center is located at 21 West 7th Street, in Railroad Square in Santa
Rosa. We look forward to seeing you and your furry friend there!
www.westernfarmcenter.com
707-545-0721
Canine Companions for Independence