Table Talk
Another National Specialty is in the books! For me, a 9 hour trip turned to 11 on the way home (construction, more construction, and more construction). I stopped on the way back at the Fulton County shows in Ohio which broke my trip up a little bit. I was able to visit with Nina Fetter, Patty and Thad Haines, Phil Booth, Vicky Bouvee, Mike Szabo, Bobby Hutton, and friends from the area. Bobby Hutton is looking good and is as funny and spirited as ever! He is making another journey to Bangkok this coming January. Sounds like fun!
It was GREAT to see Vicki Seiler in York, PA as she was the handler/breeder judge for the Shar-Pei Top 20. She was leaving directly for her very first provisional assignment in Sacramento, CA. I’m sure we will be seeing another multiple group judge in the VERY near future!
It is hard to believe, but the end of another show year is quickly approaching. It doesn’t seem that the Top Dog race is nearly as “spirited” as it has been the past couple of years, and I must say it is quite refreshing. That being said, I wish everyone good luck: Please enjoy the moment and don’t lose perspective! Remember, this is all about the dogs and having fun!
I have heard quite a few rumblings and frustration about late group judging for smaller shows. Apparently, at the shows this past weekend in California, there were less than 1,000 dogs, and judging began at the customary 8-8:30 a.m. However, groups did not begin until 4:30 p.m. thereby causing groups to run into the 7:00 hour, at which time it was dark. The venue was outdoors, there were no lights, thus BIS judging was in the dark. With the decline in entries, show giving clubs are trying to be fiscally responsible: They hire fewer judges and have less rings, thus judging takes longer. Some might say just hire another judge, and run another ring, however, this could be the demise of a club if the entry does not support the expense. As clubs try to stay afloat, they have difficult decisions to make. What’s the right answer? Do clubs ask the fancy to be patient and understanding, or do they run the risk of financial ruin? Maybe the answer is finding local judges to do some breeds for a small fee or gratis. My guess is there are a number of judges who would like the experience. Just a thought.
Birthday wishes to Jon Cole, Ilaria Biondi De Ciabatti (it was so wonderful spend time with her at the National), Justin Smithey, Jen Reed and Kathy Caton-Musto.
Who is taking a holiday trip this year? I’d love hear about it and share it with all of our dog family!!!! Don’t forget to drop me a line and tell me what’s up! We ALL want to know!
Be safe out there my friends! Until next time…..
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