Spring is creeping in, the sun is starting to warm up my bloodstream and it is only a matter of time before it starts to warm up the water in the Marina and we can start practicing again.

Right now, the Board plans to open the dock for regular practice beginning Memorial Day Weekend. How often we are open will depend on the number of volunteers we have signed up. If you are interested in helping, contact Natalie at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

 A number of our dogs and handlers have already taken the plunge and they took last week’s event in Pittsburg, CA by storm. After the qualifying waves were all over, Katie, Tinka and Sir William occupied three of the top four spots on the bubble. Tinka and Sir William both finished in the Final Four of the Pro Finals – another great showing for Tinka, and I think it was Leland’s and Sir William’s first showing in the top four – so congrats to all of them.

And it looks like they can’t wait to get wet again as they are planning to head down to Costa Mesa for the American Pet Expo in mid- April. Make sure you touch base with Natalie or Leland if you are planning to go.

Also I am very much looking forward to this year’s Jump for Cash (May 15 – 17 at Overlook Park in Auburn). This is one of my favorite California events of the year and a great first event for newcomers to the sport or veterans who have been anxiously awaiting the new season. Online registration is now open at www.splashdogs.com.   Again, let us know if you are planning to come.

A few more things about H3D in 2009:
This year’s membership dues are $40 for a Regular Membership (1 dog/1 handler) or $50 for a Family Membership (this covers multiple dogs and/or multiple handlers).  

This year, we are also offering a special dual membership with Sierra Nevada Community Sailing. As you may know, we use the sailing club’s docks at the Marina at no charge. Without their enthusiastic support, we, quite frankly, would not have much of a club.  The joint member is $70 – and gets you full member privileges for both clubs. For more information about the sailing club, visit their website at www.nvsailing.org.

We are also asking all of H3D’s supporters to help with some of our additional fundraising efforts this year. We are looking for raffle items for this Year’s Summer Solstice Splashdown at Tamarack Junction (June 19 -21) and items for a garage sale a little later this spring. Contact any of the Board members if you have ideas and can help out in any way.

Remember, we are an all-volunteer club, and if we don’t all volunteer, well….

Looking forward to seeing everyone soon, Bob