Table Talk · March 19, 2025
The 2025 Kentuckiana Cluster is in the rear-view mirror and what a week it was! The Cluster continues to attract one of the largest entries in the country with dogs from nearly every state and several countries represented. The quality was deep, and majors were plentiful. Cluster Chair David Johnson and all the Kentuckiana volunteers work hard to make the cluster fun, memorable and efficient. Several National Specialties make it very special, and any win at Louisville is cherished. I’d like to personally thank David and the cluster committee for their great hospitality and support of our Table Talk Live coverage.
Purina added to the fun in Louisville with a most awesome photo area, complete with a sofa. Looking at all the photos on social media is great fun!
A first-time exhibitor attended a show with his two dogs this past weekend. He didn’t know how to prepare his dogs to be shown; in fact, he didn’t even know that they needed to be prepared! This new exhibitor was not aware that his dogs would not be happy if he left them in their crates while he left the area they were located. Unfortunately, the dogs did not take kindly to his absence and made their unhappiness known by barking and generally throwing a fit. When he returned, he was horrified to learn about the ruckus his dogs caused. Sadly, he was belittled and attacked on social media. He left and most likely will never return. The show committee was made aware of the situation and talked with the inexperienced exhibitor. It was only then that they realized he truly did not know much about dog show etiquette. There were a couple of kind exhibitors who helped him, but sadly this did not make up for the negativity brought on by many others. We probably lost another new entrant to our sport. This is yet another example of the need to practice kindness first when dealing with others. Get the facts before reacting in a mean, negative manner. Try to educate those that possess the knowledge others have. Kindness goes a long, long way when dealing with problems like this one.
Mother Nature was not kind to those in many areas of the country this past weekend. Sadly, a tornado touched down in an area very near and dear to my heart. Purina Farms was struck by what is believed to have been a tornado. The Visitor Center, Pet Center, Barn and Incredible Dog Arena suffered significant damage. Most importantly, all employees who were on site at the time the storm hit are safe, and all animals are accounted for; they are safe and being cared for by the staff with the help of community partners.
Purina is still assessing the full extent of the property damage and will provide updates on how this will impact any future events scheduled at Purina Farms. In the meantime, Purina Farms will remain closed to all visitors until further notice.
Stay tuned for further updates. Purina Farms and the Event Center are cherished by many of us, and I know we all are anxious to hear the status of upcoming shows. Please understand that the staff of Purina has a large task ahead of them. They are doing their best to keep us all informed about facility, its closure, and the impact on upcoming events.
Sicily Coniglio, who has been assisting Paul Clas and Chrystal Murray for the past several years, attended her last dog show–for a while–this past weekend at the Celtic Classic in York, PA. She is starting a new chapter in her life by joining the US Army. Best wishes to Sicily as she embarks on this new, exciting journey.
It is with great sadness that I report the passing of Delores Burkholder. Delores had a multi-faceted career in the sport of purebred dogs. She was a breeder, professional handler, AKC Representative and Judge. Delores was truly a wonderful lady who will be missed by many. Our deepest condolences to her family and friends.
Our condolences to Heidi Hartman-Booth on the passing of her father. Please keep her in your thoughts during this difficult time.
Fanciers celebrating birthdays this week include Tyler Crady Roche, Jess Johnstone, Susan Allison, Dick Greaver, Kristyn Stout, Jan Hepper, Pilar Kuhn, Mercedes Vila, and Kay Belter. Best wishes for another year of great health, great fortune, and great fun!
This week’s inspiration is provided by Holley Eldred: “Be strong when you’re weak, be brave when you’re scared, be humble when you’re victorious, be a bada** every day!”
Be safe in your travels, my friends and PLEASE! above all else! Be KIND! I will see you soon down the road. Until next time!
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