Table Talk · November 13, 2024

So often we talk about being kind to each other. Kindness is important in every facet of our sport:  Exhibitors/competitors supporting each other, showing kindness and appreciation toward show volunteers, and kindness and respect among exhibitors and judges. Sadly, we often forget that our bad day, stressful moment, or tough loss can have a huge impact on a new exhibitor. It is not difficult for a judge to be aware when judging a “green” exhibitor, and those moments are critical to that “newbie”. When you are losing your patience, please think about the following:

Recently, AKC Judge Celeste Gonzalez had a new exhibitor in the ring, and that exhibitor’s experience will bring her back to another show. I’d like to share the note that Celeste received from that exhibitor with you:

Dear Ms. Gonzalez,

I wanted to take a moment to thank you for your kindness and patience during the recent dog show. Your understanding of a puppy and novice handler made a real difference and helped us feel more at ease in the ring. It was a pleasure gaining valuable practice under your guidance, and I truly appreciate the positive experience you provided. We are continuing to work on honing our skills and hope to see you in the ring in the future. Thank you again for your support.

Nice going, Judge Gonzalez!  Celeste’s advice to all: We were all in this person’s shoes when we started. Let’s make the beginning of their journey enjoyable so they will keep coming back!

It is hard to believe that the last shows of the year close today! Where did the year go? Remember this, my friends; last year the all-breed shows in Orlando–held the week of the National Championship–reached their 5,000-dog limit. Don’t be surprised if you wait until the last minute to enter, and your entries get returned. I hope to see everyone there!

This past week I attended the Staffordshire Terrier Club of America National Specialty. The show was held Monday through Friday at Purina Farms (which is a terrific venue for a national, large or small), with a Regional Specialty on Monday and a Regional Specialty on Tuesday. The National Specialty began Wednesday with Obedience followed by the classes and Best of Breed on Thursday and Friday. Kim Rudzik organized one of the most phenomenal basket raffles I have ever seen! The raffle raised $7,300 which will be used for next year’s trophies. If anyone has tried raising funds for trophies, you know what an arduous task it can be. This makes the fund-raising fun and will enable the club to have amazing trophies next year! Way to go, Kim! Great idea!

Kate Henlon tripped and fell at the Old Fort Cluster in Fort Wayne, Indiana last week and broke her nose. Best wishes to you for quick healing, Kate!!

Kristina Rickard was in a car accident enroute to the Southern Oregon Kennel club shows. She hit a patch of black ice, briefly lost control, and when she regained control, she was rear-ended by a semi. Everyone is alive, sore, beaten up and scared, but it could have been so much worse!  As the weather turns colder, we never know when the roads might freeze. BE CAREFUL OUT THERE EVERYONE!

George and Cathy Milutinovich are celebrating their 54^th wedding anniversary! You guys don’t look like you are old enough to have been married for 54 years! May you have many more wonderful years ahead with your beautiful family. Esteban Farias and Jen Miller are also celebrating their anniversary this week. Here is hoping that you guys have at least 54 years together!

Fanciers celebrating birthdays this week include: Tom Martenson, Kenny Cregg, Alyssa Beutler, Wally Sommerfelt, Bill Hempel, Barbara Wagner, Deborah Caywood, Rob Skibinski, Amy Rutherford, Pam Hoerster, Verla Loomis Randall, Pat Keen Fernandes, Derek Beatty, Jessica David-Tauber, Sydney Good, Glenn Lycan, Eric Liebes and Phil Booth. Best wishes for the best trip around the sun yet!

Remember this my friends:

Keep fighting for the good.

Keep showing up.

Keep loving.

Keep giving back.

Keep being brave.

Keep caring.

Keep trying new things.

Keep showing grace.

Keep On.

The world needs you to believe in the good!!!

Be safe out there! Good luck to all that are in a tight race. Remember to show your competitors kindness. Until next time….

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