The Collie Club of America Breed Education committee has replaced the Continuing Education Committee. We thank this committee for creating a grassroots initiative that empowers local specialty clubs to host informal, educational gatherings – “Ringside Chats”- leveraging existing venues and the deep knowledge base within our own membership.
Traditional one or two-day seminars require extensive planning, high costs, and often rely on a small pool of overused speakers. Attendance at these events has declined, limiting their reach and impact. Many seasoned members of our breed community—particularly those no longer actively breeding or exhibiting—hold a wealth of knowledge, yet they are seldom invited to share it at national events. As a result, newer members have limited opportunities for informal mentorship and meaningful, breed‑specific education.
The Collie Club of America will offer 10 specialty clubs a year a $250 subsidy for a pizza party or casual meal that hosts a “Ringside Chat”. These gatherings will be held at the show venue ( typically a hotel or training center), last a minimum of 1 hour allowing time for dog care, include a casual meal ( e.g. pizza) to encourage participation and camaraderie, and feature open discussion led by senior club members, judges or other knowledgeable individuals. This program is designed to encourage conversation and disseminate knowledge and information.
Program Requirements:
- Reservation: Use the online form below to reserve your club’s Ringside Chat event.
- Advertising: Promote your Ringside Chat in the premium list, online advertising and catalog.
- Topic: Choose from one of the many listed topics or choose your own.
- Video: Record the program, no live stream, that may be shared on the CCA YouTube Chanel.
- Photo: Take many photos that may be used in promoting the Ringside Chat program.
- Report: After the event send a short report to the Breed Education chair. Form available online >>.
Please complete this report and submit it to the Breed Education chair (Kelly Neeley: cyndellacollies@yahoo.com) within 14 days of the program.
