Final Woof

As I sit in my air conditioned office on yet another July day of searing heat, I can’t help but marvel at the “Dog Days” of summer. These are the days when the ISES Cleveland “pack” is collectively working its considerable brand of magic throughout the region and beyond. …getting their DOG ON! Or…since we are based in this football fanatic  town, perhaps I should say, “DAWG”. Any way you spell it, the big dogs are running wild and free! Every breed of professional: event planners, entertainers, rental reps, décor providers, florists, light designers, sound engineers, DJ’s, venue teams, caterers, and musicians—are all seizing the day and making their nut. Winter lurks, so the pack swings in full gear even in the searing heat. Last year it was the incessant rain….This pup is grateful for the dry weather, just sayin’….

Today is Graduation Day. July 15, 2012. The 2011-2012 ISES Cleveland Board will be getting their monogrammed collars and trotting off to other packs and adventures. The new pups have been fully socialized and are ready to lead collectively with one woof. It is time to get off the cool porch and roam free, The 2012-2013 ISES Cleveland Board is groomed for the challenge—to be sure—and THIS Best of Show canine is so very thrilled with her progeny! Double woof and high paws all around!

Our new pack leader, Laura Hoffman (aka “Fluffy”) will lead us with style and grace through this busy event season and into the cool fall and winter. We will all grow our winter coats, and search for warm hearths to gather around with our pack.  The monthly gatherings will bring a sense of belonging and new pups will be brought into the fold. (The membership committee will be the BIG DOGS in December!…led by Vincent the Great Dane!).  The entire pack will run with educational offerings such as: “Bark or Bite first: strategies of event management” and a good time will be had by all! Woof Woof Hey!

Thank you for letting this old dog have her day. As President and Top Dog, I have enjoyed TREMENDOUSLY the camaraderie and connections that only a seasoned pack can bring.  No one can hunt alone in this world, and I have treasured my team of venerable curs who never cease to amaze me. Yes, old dogs CAN learn new tricks! A final tail wag to all, I remain faithfully by your side,

Deb “Peaches” Hermann  xoxox