The Rainier Hunting Retriever Club (RHRC) held its 2026 Awards Banquet on January 31st at Shawn O’Donnell’s Irish Pub in Everett, WA.
The club was pleased to welcome Dr. Anders Thoreson, DVM at Klahaya Animal Hospital in Snohomish, WA, as our featured speaker. Dr. Thoreson shared valuable information on various aspects of dog training and competing in both hot and cold weather.
In addition to Awards, the 2026 RHRC club officers were elected: Bill Woll, President; Liz Gibson, Vice President; Misalyn Armstrong, Secretary and Lee Redd, Treasurer.
President, Bill Woll, provided highlights of the club’s 2025 activities.
- Held 2 training days for members
- Hosted 2 AKC Sanctioned Hunt Tests.
- Donated $250 to Chase Away Canine Cancer in memory of dogs who passed in 2025.
- Awarded Honorary Membership to Gary Abbott and Bryan/Elsa Hawley for their “behind the scenes” support of RHRC activities with no public fanfare.
Achievement Awards were presented to twenty-one dogs and their owners. These awards were earned throughout 2025 at both local and national events. They represent the hours of training and testing by Rainier Club members and their canine companions.
Two special RHRC Awards are given annually: “Member of the Year” and “President’s Award.” These Awards recognize members who have gone “over and above” the usual volunteer service during the past year.
The RHRC membership voted for Leighton Harder to receive the Member of the Year Award. Leighton not only was Chef de Cuisine at our events, but he also assisted with the many jobs necessary for successful events.
Misalyn Armstrong received the President’s Award from Bill Woll, RHRC President. Bill remarked, “Misalyn gave me tremendous support over the past year! She always volunteers to help and has a great “Get It Done” attitude. She leads our Judge Selection committee and helps with hospitality at our events!”
