Re: [PyrNet-L] GPCA bulletin

[darrell goolsbee <dgg@star-telegram.com>]

Sorry I'm late on this topic, but I've been at the National Specialty.

The Bulletin, as far as I know, is the only national magazine devoted
exclusively to Pyrs. 

I personally wish that it were easier for Pyr owners to join GPCA, but
that is not something I have any control over.

Honestly, for most Pyr owners, the main benefit of being a GPCA member
is the subscription to the Bulletin. I doubt that most are that
interested in club news or in voting for the National Specialty judge.

I occasionally mention the Bulletin because I think that most Pyr owners
would enjoy it and benefit from it, and membership is not a requirement.
The goal is not to "take someone's money," because the amount of money
involved is relatively modest anyway.

There certainly are items, such as club news, in the Bulletin that are
not particularly of general interest. However, my goal as editor has
been to try to cast a wide net on Pyr-related articles, and also to
attempt to be the "publication of record" for the breed in the U.S. Both
of these goals have some ways to go to be accomplished, but at least the
aim is there.

Some recent articles, just off the top of my head, include Pyrs and
agility, Pyrs vs. wolves in the Rockies, and the confirmation of
sub-aortic stenosis in the breed. The upcoming issue features five
extraordinary rescue stories. I would think that Pyr owners in general,
and not just GPCA members, would have interest in some of these topics. 

I encourage participation in the regional clubs, as they are the most
"hands-on" place for Pyr owners to go.

Darrell Goolsbee
Editor, GPCA Bulletin