History of the North East Regional Riesenschnauzer Club (NERRC)

November of 2003, several members of the Working Riesenschnauzer Federation from the northeastern region came together to form the first regional chapter of the WRSF, the North East Regional Riesenschnauzer Club (NERRC). For some years, many WRSF members had thought it might be a good idea to form geographic associations within the WRSF to socialize, meet one another, meet their dogs and benefit from training or holding seminars.  Some of the participants at this first meeting included Sharon Burns, Kevin Burns, Linda and Roger Gibbons, Martha and Walter Galuszka, Siem John Berkhout ,Susan Daily, Pat Tonielli, Kathy Pierce, Edith Notman and Kathy Pearce.   A slate of officers was nominated and elected and by-laws were submitted to the WRSF in January of 2004. The formation of this chapter was initiated to enhance the participation of Riesenschnauzer in dogsports and to celebrate the working character of the breed, consistent with the charter of the WRSF, and to provide another opportunity for friends of the Riesenschnauzer to support one another on a local and regional level. Because many people are not able to attend Schnauzerfest every year, it was hoped that regional get-togethers might provide another way for members to meet and enjoy seeing one another more than once a year. At a meeting at the home of Sharon and Kevin Burns in Hillsborough NJ, an eclectic mix of Riesenschnauzer lovers, some with titled dogs, some just beginning to work their dogs in schutzhund, some with retired dogs, and some with years of experience in the sport got together to form NERRC. The weekend event was an educational and training success as well as a social success, since Sharon generously hosted a seminar with Renate Rank and Alfred Hupfauer, a highly respected German helper with decades of experience working Riesenschnauzer. Many of us were thrilled to see his work and hear his insightful commentary on our dogs' personalities, learning styles, and drives.   Later that year, our group sponsored Alfred as the helper/trainer  for the WRSF Schnauzerfest, where he also educated and illuminated participants.The group intends to host more frequent get-togethers, and we are currently planing events. Those who are interested in the working character of the Riesenschnauzer are welcome to attend one of the upcoming events. Since the regional Club is a part of the Working Riesenschnauzer Federation (WRSF), interested parties must become WRSF members as well. more event info >>> 

Susan Daily
President, North East Regional Riesenschnauzer Club