Table Talk · April 27, 2022
The National Owner Handled Series (note that it is Owner Handled, NOT Owner Handler) is a popular topic of conversation on social media as well as in-person conversations among fanciers (yes, there are still those rare face to face conversations among fanciers). I have enjoyed several of these conversations and would like to share some observations.
Let me preface my comments with the admission that when the AKC started the National Owner Handled Series, I was not a believer. I did not understand how a “special” competition could be held based on the handler when I was of the understanding judging was based on the dogs, not the handlers. I was concerned about the additional burden the added competition would put on clubs who were already short of volunteers and resources. On the other hand, being a long-time fancier who has nothing but great desire to see our sport continue and thrive, I recognized that we had to think outside the box to renew interest and keep our sport alive.
Like it or not, the NOHS has been very successful since it began in 2012. Clubs that offer NOHS have experienced an increase in entries pretty much across the board. A show with an entry of 1700+ enjoyed an NOHS entry of 581, or 30.5% of the entry! At $30 per entry, you do the math. There is a significant number of exhibitors who now base the decision regarding what show they are going to attend on whether NOHS is offered or not. In addition, there is an increasing number of those NOHS participants who have become competitive in the regular groups. Those who are successful in the NOHS ring work very hard, and they are very competitive.
As the NOHS gains popularity and more clubs offer it, the NOHS exhibitors will have more choices as to what shows they attend. Simple things like strategically scheduling the NOHS groups to avoid conflict, providing rosettes, and perhaps a trophy or two, go a long way in making exhibitors feel welcomed, appreciated, and respected. Clubs who feel they cannot afford rosettes or trophies may want to consider seeking donations: I would be willing to bet there is someone out there who will assist them!!!
Congratulations to Cindy Lane-Smith who has purchased a successful boarding kennel, Wyatt’s Bed and Biscuit, in Aiken, South Carolina. Even greater news is that she will be able to have her horse Cha Cha on the property! Best wishes for much success with the business, Cindy!
The Laramie, Wyoming Kennel Club needs stewards and volunteers for their upcoming shows at the end of May. If you are available and willing to help, please reach out to Kate McCullough via personal message.
Woofstock is right around the corner, and they also are in need of stewards for this year’s Peace, Love and Dogs! If you are available to steward June 9-12 in Vallejo, California, please reach out to Kevin Ellingson via personal message.
Those fanciers who are planning to go to Big Sky Country and attend the Five Valley Kennel Club in Missoula, MT June 2-5th should get your hotel accommodations as soon as possible! With the beginning of tourist season, coupled with the shooting of the Yellowstone television program, rooms will be in great demand!
Sandy McIlwaine is home and under the expert care of nurse Peggy Beisel-McIlwaine. We are thinking about you guys! Feel better soon Sandy!
It was great to see Elizabeth Salewsky and Crom taking a trip around the veteran ring after her recent hospital stay.
Happy Anniversary to newlyweds Adam Levy and Devon Kipp-Levy who are celebrating their one-year anniversary. Take some time to enjoy your special day, my friends!
Fanciers celebrating birthdays this week are: CJ Favre, Kathy Jones, Wendy Paquette, Nina Fetter, David Kirkland, Ivonne Rangel, Rhonda Holloway, Kristen McGregor, Rowan Baggenstos, Vince Indeglia, Correy Krickeberg, Hana Marangon, Kim Meredith, Grace Fritz, George Milutinovich, Alissa Welling, Lexie Ditlow, Emily Thiel, Nancy Brown, Nancy Foley and Frank Murphy.
My thought for the week my friends: Before you spread gossip about somebody’s life and their failures remember there are chapters of your life that you don’t want read out loud either!
Be safe in your travels and give those dogs an extra hug: You never know how long they will be with you. Until next time….
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