Table Talk – Dec. 21, 2018

Another AKC Championship week is in the books and what a week it was! I think this venue is the best for a large show like this: the possibilities are endless and the show Committee and sponsors do a terrific job continuing to expand the show. I must be honest, however, my legs and feet are still screaming after walking well over 75,000 steps between Tuesday afternoon and Sunday night. I really liked having the Saturday and Sunday group ring closer to the grooming area than last year, and I think this was also much better for the exhibitors and dogs competing in the groups.

Several exhibitors (present company included) were unable to get win photographs with judges, primarily due to how the judges were scheduled, and the proximity of the photographers. I am sure that the show committee will address this concern for next year.

I hope that everyone enjoyed our first attempt at Table Talk Live. Thanks so much to all those who participated, and especially my “camera man” Alex Angelbello, as well as Cheslie Pickett-Smithey for your help. We know we need to work on the audio the next time around, which we will address. I would love to hear ideas for future interviews and Table Talk broadcasts: Please personal message me on Facebook with ideas! I enjoyed trying to make those at home that could not be in Orlando with us feel like they were included.

Orlando is one of our greatest opportunities for public outreach. We need to continue to be mindful of such outreach if we are going to continue to grow our sport and encourage newcomers to join us. The efforts at the Meet the Breed booths were very impressive, and I was very happy to see seasoned exhibitors, breeders and professional handlers pitch in and help their breeds.

The AKC National Championship evening competition will air on Animal Planet on January 1st at 7 PM ET with a re-airing at 11 PM ET.

Congratulations to team Striker on Best In Show at the 2017 AKC Championship show! It was an amazing win for an amazing dog and handler. Our most sincere condolences to Regina Beinhauer, Striker’s co-owner, whose sister passed away Monday morning. It was a day of high highs and low lows for her.

The short break this year for those who attended shows in Orlando, PA or MN is barely two weeks. I hope everyone takes time to rest, enjoy family and friends, and let your dogs hang out and be dogs! Give each and every one of your canine friends an extra hug, and let them know how much you appreciate them. Remember, they are just as tired as you are and a little love goes a long way.

Our sympathies to professional handler Scott Yergin and family on the loss of Scott’s mom after an extended illness.

Continued good thoughts to those Southern California residents who continue to be threatened or impacted by the fires. You are in our thoughts.

Celebrating birthdays this week are: Remy Smith-Lewis, Risky Molnar, Mary Dukes, Carlos Puig, Linda Williams and Andy Linton.

Congrats to everyone on your accomplishments this past year, and best of luck to you in 2018. Remember my friends, life is not a dress rehearsal! You have one shot at it: MAKE IT COUNT and enjoy!

Have a safe, happy holiday filled with love my friends. Until next time….

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