Text Box: First my congratulations go to the Imperial Polk Obedience Club - Team #1 on winning DOCOF 2006.  It is a joyful thing to win DOCOF but it is made even better because it is a shared experience.  The team wins and even if there is more than one team all the people of your club share in the joy of winning DOCOF.  People get to yell, jump up and down and celebrate together.  JOY JOY JOY.  This is a totally different feel than when we show as individuals.  As individuals we are able to share with our dogs and maybe some close friends.  To share with the whole club an individual win is probably asking a little too much.  Savor the team win; share the win as a group.  It is a good feeling so enjoy the victory.  You all deserved it.   DOCOF 2006 to me meant, "I can't believe that things went so well."  After all these years I do believe that in 2006 we got things right.  Putting on DOCOF is truly a team effort and what a team. I am sure that Maggie Eslinger has written her page of “Thank You,” and each and every person deserves recognition.  Remember to pat yourselves on the back for all you do. As I am writing I am thinking that this year we will put up a “Thank you” banner. The banner will have markers and we are going to allow you all to express your written thanks to people or committees or to your dog or dogs.  If you take part and it works we will publish it in next year’s DOCOF Doings. The pirate ship - Indian River, you did it again.  It was so grand.  The judges cannot believe the table decorations and the spirit.  You are all amazing. The room is transformed for those few hours -- it is so sad that it could not last longer.  Amazing! There are so many people to thank.  Maggie does not thank herself but I would like to.  Maggie, thanks for all that you do.  You are a rock and your heart and soul is so dedicated to DOCOF.  Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.  DOCOF 2006 was the best.  Things just were so smooth, and that is the accomplishment of many.  My only hope is that it gets better and better and this feeling of "that really was a good year" continues. My best to you all.  Work hard, have fun with your dogs.  See you in Orlando in September. Nancy Grotheer - DOCOF President THINGS WE CAN LEARN FROM A DOG   Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joyride. Allow the experience of fresh air and the wind in your face to be pure ecstasy. When loved ones come home, always run to greet them.  When it's in your best interest, always practice obedience. Let other know when they've invaded your territory. Take naps and stretch before rising. Run, romp and play daily. Eat with gusto and enthusiasm. Be loyal. Never pretend to be something you're not. If what you want lies buried, dig until you find it. When others are having a bad day, be silent, sit close by and nuzzle them gently. Thrive on attention and let people touch you. Avoid biting when a simple growl will do. On hot days, drink lots of water and lay under a shade tree. When you're happy, dance around and wag your entire body. No matter how often you're scolded, don't buy into the guilt thing and pout.  Run right back and make friends. Delight in the simple joy of a long walk.

President's Message - 2007