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New CDJA Feature: Judging Availability Calendar Now Available

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The Canadian Dog Judges Association has introduced a new optional Judging Availability Calendar feature for members.

This feature allows judges to display when they are not available to judge, directly on their CDJA member profile. The goal is simple:
to save time for both judges and clubs by making availability easier to assess before contracts are issued.

What Is the Judging Availability Calendar?

The Judging Availability Calendar appears at the bottom of an individual member’s profile and allows Show Chairs, Show Secretaries, Superintendents, and organizing committees to view availability in:

  • Month view
  • Week view
  • Schedule (list) view

Only availability status is shown — nothing more.

What the Calendar Shows (and What It Doesn’t)

✔ What It Shows

  • Dates when a judge is not available
  • Availability displayed clearly by date range

✖ What It Does Not Show

  • Where you are judging
  • Why you are unavailable
  • Personal events or details
  • Contract or assignment information

Members are encouraged to use a simple, generic label such as “Not Available.”

Is This Feature Mandatory?

No.
This feature is completely optional.

However, it is strongly encouraged as a courtesy to clubs and as a practical time-saving tool for judges who manage multiple commitments.

How the Calendar Works (High-Level Overview)

  • Members create a separate Google Calendar (using Gmail)
  • The calendar is connected to their CDJA profile using a Google Calendar ID
  • Members add “Not Available” all-day events, marked as Busy
  • Clubs can view availability without needing to contact the judge first

Full step-by-step instructions are provided below.

Step-by-Step Instructions & Video Tutorial

To make setup as easy as possible, we’ve provided two resources:

  • 📄 PDF Guide – Detailed step-by-step written instructions – CLICK HERE
  • 🎥 Video Walkthrough – Recorded demonstration showing the full setup process – CLICK HERE

👉 Both resources are available below on this page

Members are encouraged to review the PDF first, then watch the video if they prefer a visual walkthrough.

Best Practices for Members

  • Add unavailable dates as soon as you reasonably expect a commitment
  • Use generic labels only (e.g., “Not Available”)
  • Mark events as:
    • All Day
    • Busy (required)
  • Delete or adjust entries if plans change
  • Review your calendar periodically to keep it accurate

Why This Matters

This feature was developed in response to feedback from both judges and clubs. It helps:

  • Reduce unnecessary inquiries
  • Prevent scheduling conflicts
  • Save time for Show Chairs and Secretaries
  • Give judges greater control over how availability is communicated

Over time, this tool is expected to become a valuable part of how judging assignments are planned.

Need Help?

If you have questions or experience any issues setting up your calendar:

  • Contact Kate Barnett, CDJA Webmaster
  • Or reach out to Steve Dainard

We’re happy to help walk you through it.

Thank you to Kate for her work on implementing this feature, and thank you to our members for continuing to support tools that make the judging process more efficient for everyone.

Happy Holidays,
The CDJA Team