Table Talk · July 12, 2023
I had the pleasure of attending the Maize and Blue Cluster in Monroe, Michigan this past weekend. I hadn’t been to this cluster in six years; it has grown substantially! With several group shows and specialties on Friday–including a sizeable Sporting Dog Show–the cluster boasted a weekend all breed entry of nearly 2,000 dogs. I remember this cluster being quite hot, and the club was ready for the heat with portable pools set out for our canine friends. Fortunately, the weather was very comfortable for people and dogs and the pools were not necessary! We had some rain on Saturday, but I will take a bit of rain over insufferable heat any day! I understand next year will be even bigger and better as a Terrier Group show will join in the fun.
Any Breed clubs looking to find a home for their specialties should reach out to Mary Ann Brocious and the Ann Arbor Kennel Club. This group knows how to run a great cluster! The grounds are beautiful, and the hard-working club members are awesome! Kudos to all for a job well done!
While taking photos on Saturday, I had the pleasure to meet the Byzewski’s with their lovely Colored Bull Terrier. Sarah’s husband Joe was the proud bucket bitch! He tended to his wife and dog with great pride, and he always had a big smile on his face. When I commented about his amazing attitude, he told me about all the years his wife supported their kid’s sports and his crazy hockey dad antics. He said, “Now, it is her turn.” His amazing attitude truly made my day. Congratulations to the lovely couple from Canada on your great weekend at the dog show!
In addition to making a couple new friends, I was able to chat with others I have not had the pleasure to hang out with for way too long! It was great seeing old friends and catching up. It is hard to believe that I have known many of you for over 30 years!
I was surprised to see Junior Showmanship competitor and handler’s assistant Lila Holmberg in Michigan. She was a loooong way from the West Coast! Lila always makes me smile, and she is a great example of the young people who are the future of our sport. Safe travels back West, my friend! I’m certain your tribe will be thrilled to have you back.
Stop #2, of the Texas Trek is in the rearview mirror with the completion of the Dallas cluster. Larry and Vicki Abbott and all the cluster volunteers never disappoint due to their hard work and amazing organization. Thank you to all for your dedication and attention to detail. It is no wonder your show always has big entries! Best wishes to all traveling to San Antonio for Stop #3 of the trek.
I was thrilled to hear that Kate and Aiden Berry made it to the Citrus Cluster in Ocala this past weekend. Kate, you continue to demonstrate true courage and perseverance. I am so proud of you. I know Mike is smiling down on you from above and yes, my friend, you ARE making HIM so very proud. Your dog show family continues to be here for you.
Congratulations to Nina Fetter on her recent engagement to Ron Galarneau. Buckle up Ron, that girl is going to keep you on your toes!!! Best wishes to both of you for a happy life together!
Happy Anniversary to my friends Tiffany and Shea Skinner who just celebrated their 18th wedding anniversary. I can’t help but remember Shea as a little kid attending the Shar-Pei National. My, how time flies!
Emily Thiel and Ryan Kubisiak just celebrated year 1 as a happily married couple. Happy Anniversary and my wish if for you to have much happiness in the years to come.
Fanciers celebrating birthdays this week are: Tom Pincus, Jim Augustus, Jamie Larkman, Dan Buchwald, Bob Shreve, Delores Burkholder, Arlene Davis, Shari Lee, Terri Erickson, Courtney Grogin-Diekman, Paula Nykiel, Tammy Bohlke and Mari-Beth ONeill. Enjoy your special day, my friends.
In honor of those “marching” through Texas: Don’t let people pull you into their storm. Pull them into your peace!
Be safe out there, everyone! Be kind to the hard-working people that work tirelessly to put on the dog shows we attend week-in and week-out. Instead of judging them, please lend a hand! Until next time…
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