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The contributions that individuals make to CFA are
as varied as our breeds of cats. This year the Southern Region was very happy
to honor Mona Cherrington as the 2005 CFA Southern Region Cat Fancier of the
Year. Mona’s contributions to CFA are many but what best sums up her
contributions is that she always goes above and beyond to help out CFA
exhibitors, breeders, and clubs. In addition to providing a helping hand, her
CFA roles have included Ocicat Breed Council Secretary, Southern Region
Treasurer, International Show Entry Clerk, and Entry Clerk service.
Mona’s involvement in CFA
started in 1986 with her Colorpoint Shorthairs and her cattery – Mosu. In 1988,
she started a long term love affair with the Ocicat. By the mid-nineties, Mona
had escalated her involvement in CFA by starting one of the first entry clerk
services. Soon, she was handling many Southern Region shows. Although her entry
service is a business, she keeps her fees down to ensure that clubs have a low
cost option for this time-consuming task. She also go above expectations as she
stays open late for last minute entries, checks with exhibitors if she hasn’t
gotten expected entries, and helps clubs drum up entries. She has also donated
her services several times to CFA shows such as regional shows and the
International show.
She is a member and officer of
several CFA show-producing clubs including United Colorpoint, Ocicat
International, and Absolutely Abyssinian. In addition to club memberships, Mona
held the position of CFA Southern Region Treasurer from 1998 – 2000 and CFA
Ocicat Breed Council Secretary from 1999 – 2002. She is also active in her
Florida county to prevent anti-breeder legislation such as illegal animal
seizure.
When Mona is not busy with
club or entry business, she loves to show her Ocicats and is proud to have had
the first lavender spotted Ocicat Regional Winner. In 2004 and 2005, she had
one of her most exciting show seasons with her first National Winner – Grand
Premier, National Winner Mosu’s Gray Shadow who was CFA’s 19th Best
Premiership Cat. In the show hall, she is a good sport and willing to help
whenever she can.
Mona was very surprised when
she was announced CFA Southern Region Cat Fancier of the Year. All those she
has helped over the years knew was the right choice and indicated their approval
by the standing ovation she received at this year’s regional awards banquet.
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