Table Talk · October 14, 2020
I have added another feather to my dog fancier cap. This past weekend I helped out my good friend, Nina Fetter, who is starting up her new venture, Executive Dog Shows, LLC and I served as show secretary. This was my first time serving in this capacity, and it was Executive Dog Show’s second all-breed dog show.
Starting a business under normal circumstances is frightening and challenging. Starting a dog show superintendent business during a world-wide pandemic is, well, just crazy! In true Nina Fetter fashion, one of her first efforts was to donate her services to the American Heart Association for their virtual dog show. Her first all-breed shows were canceled twice due to COVID-19, and she spent the majority of her time refunding entries and transferring the fees to future dates. As luck would have it, the Crawford County Kennel Club shows ended up being held the week after the Western Ohio Summer Cluster, and the weekend before her first National Specialty. Three big events in a row!!!! There were also two emergency eye surgeries and a short hospital stay, too. Rest assured, she is hard at work getting this past weekend’s issues resolved. Best wishes to Nina for successful eye surgery this week!
This past weekend’s experience has taught me a great deal. I learned a lot of “technical” detail that is too dry to share, most of which I learned from AKC Executive Field Rep Sandy D’Andrea. I have learned that the majority of exhibitors (at least the ones that attended Crawford County) are kind, patient, understanding, and willing to pitch in and help. Second, I had the opportunity to work closely with Sandy, and I am amazed at her understanding and patience. Not only did she go above and beyond to assist with keeping the show moving and ensure everything was done correctly, but she did not allow the minutiae to get in the way of always putting the exhibitor first. The sport of purebred dogs and the American Kennel Club is lucky to have her, and I look forward to working with her again! Thank you to all of the judges and exhibitors for your kindness and patience. I look forward to future shows without the chaos!
Penny Kretchmer, President and Show Chair for the upcoming Albany Kennel Club shows has worked very hard to pave the way for events in the Northeast. Her club is hosting the first shows in the region this weekend at the Big E in West Springfield, Massachusetts. In order for shows to continue in that area, strict compliance with state and local guidelines is vital. They are tough out there folks, but so are we! If you reside in a state on their list that has travel restrictions, you must have evidence of a negative COVID-19 test that is less than 3 days old. Some exhibitors have indicated difficulty getting rapid results or getting a test if they are asymptomatic. Exhibitors requiring rapid tests may want to visit www.LetsGetChecked.com. The number from the COVID-19 result must go on your signed waiver. Exhibitors attending these shows are encouraged to visit the Mass.gov website and review the travel advisory.
Please note that these guidelines have not been created by Penny. She is just doing what is necessary to successfully hold a dog show in Massachusetts. Those of you who are unhappy that these guidelines have been put in effect should not forget the alternative which is to cancel the event or have it shut down. Unkind words have been spoken to an individual who has worked her tail off to hold shows. Kind words of encouragement to Penny would go a long way at this time. Congratulations and thanks for your perseverance and diligence, Penny! You have a great many fanciers behind you!
There was a shortage of stewards in Mason City, Iowa this past weekend. Some judges had to handle their ring on their own. These situations are more prevalent than normal due to the current crazy times. If you are available during the day, or have a few-hour break, checking in with the show chair to see if you can help out would be appreciated! If we all pitch in a bit, clubs will not get frustrated and throw in the towel!
I was saddened to hear that I will not be making a trip to Portland in January for the Rose City Cluster. I am happy to hear that the cluster has been moved to July and will be held at an outdoor venue. Stay tuned for more information!
The issue of live-streaming judging on social media has come up once again. The same guidelines have been in place for quite some time. During these times that have restricted so many from attending dog shows, people are hungry to either see their dog show or watch a dog show! I also recognize the concern that the content of a video may cause issues if individuals are seen not complying with COVID-19 guidelines.
I am on the fence about the issue of live-streaming events during the show. I must admit, I have a strong desire to share our beloved sport as much as possible and give people an opportunity to connect. Fanciers have started a Change.org petition asking the American Kennel Club delegates to reconsider AKC’s stance on this issue.
I was relieved to hear that Nick Grubb is okay after a frightening accident while returning home from the shows in Lima, Ohio. Fortunately, Nick is okay, the dogs are okay, and Chelsie and the kids were behind the rig in their car. Things can be replaced: the lives of dogs and people cannot!!
After 40 years in East LA, Jack Bradshaw Dog Show Superintendent has a new address: 320 Maple Avenue, Torrance, CA 90503. The email remains the same which is mail@jbradshaw.com. The phone number also remains the same.
Celebrating anniversaries this week are: Beep and Shari Lee and Rod Ott and Pilar Kuhn. Enjoy your special day with each other and may you enjoy many more!!!
We have a big list of fanciers celebrating birthdays this week. They include: Gaby Gilbeau, Teena Uyeno, Barrie Drewitt-Barlow, Jen Reed, Maureen McReery, Justin Smithey, Tristen Lawrence, Kasey O’Brien, Gary Andersen, Jamie Hubbard, Ray Filburn, Lacy Bauer, and Amy Booth. I hope all of you get to do whatever you want on your birthday!
I leave you with this thought: Stab the body and it heals. Injure the heart and the wound lasts a lifetime.
Be safe and stay well, my friends. Until next time…
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