The Black Diamond Cluster Clubs

Mountaineer Kennel Club and South Hills Kennel Club joined forces in 2005 to put on a three-day show. As a result of the success from this joint venture, the two clubs united to form the Black Diamond Cluster, a committee of members from each club dedicated to creating a show that would generate membership support, community participation, and consecutive entries. In accordance with our Cluster Contract, the Black Diamond Cluster consists of four members from each club (the "Cluster Committee"). The Cluster Committee is responsible for a separate bank account to pay all expenses incurred as a result of hosting the Black Diamond Cluster. The Cluster Committee is also responsible for submitting all appropriate AKC applications, securing the show ground site, maintenance and management of the show grounds, creating a suitable judging panel, and work with the show superintendent. Due to the complex nature of managing a four-day show, the Cluster Committee has appointed subcommittees to help carry out the necessary responsibilities.

The current members of the Cluster Committee are as follows:

Mountaineer Kennel Club Cluster Committee:
Sheri O. Smith, Show Chair
William Guappone, Asst. Show Chair
Bonnie Fisher, Committee Member
Crystal Mackey, Committee Member

South Hills Kennel Club Cluster Committee:
Vincent Grlovich, Show Co-Chair
Thomas Oshlinger, Show Co-Chair
Barbara Baker, Committee Member
Lindy Whyte, Committee Member

The Black Diamond Cluster hosted its first four-day conformation, obedience, and rally show in June 2006. This first cluster show cemented the working relationship between the two clubs and successfully brought in a decent number of entries and exhibitors as well as a large public presence.

The Cluster Committee worked and continues to work hand-in-hand with the Greene County Fairgrounds ("GCF"). This continued cooperation facilitates an exchange and implementation of ideas on how to make the show site more exhibitor, vendor, and public friendly. At our request, the GCF purchased (at no additional cost to the Cluster) Arena Clear to condition its large hard packed dirt arena, the main show building. Arena Clear is an environmentally safe liquid soil conditioner that suppresses dust and provides protection from airborne pollutants such as dust, mold, etc. The June 2006 show was the first year Arena Clear was utilized and it demonstrated that it was an invaluable tool that will always be used in conjunction with our show. Also, the GCF updated the main arena bathrooms, which now include showers for those staying on the show grounds. As previously noted, the GCF and the Cluster has a solid working relationship with a common goal of improving the show site.

The County Commissioners of Greene County, Pennsylvania has fully supported the Cluster and continues to help make this show a renowned venue for exhibitors and spectators alike. With invaluable assistance from the Greene County Tourism Bureau, the Cluster is becoming well-known throughout the Pennsylvania, Ohio, and West Virginia region.