Table Talk · July 3, 2024
As I surveyed the media coverage from the 148th Westminster Kennel Club, I noticed many of the photographs did not portray these great dogs looking their best–or even close to good in some cases. I was relieved when I read a professional photographer’s view that backed up my concerns. Now, it makes sense! For one reason or another, this past May, Westminster Kennel Club replaced the “dog photographers” with contracted sports photographers. While I am sure those in power at Westminster had a good reason for trying this approach, I join Kerrin Winter-Churchill in appealing to them to bring back those great photographers who understand the sport and show these beautiful animals as living, breathing representations of their breed standard.
If you have not had the opportunity to read Kerrin’s article (https://caninechronicle.com/current-articles/ringside-thoughts-speaking-out/), I encourage you to do so. The comparison of photographs between “dog photographers” and “non-dog photographers” is very enlightening! While our talented dog photographers may make it look easy, the years spent in the sport–including breeding, raising, training, and showing dogs–gives these talented artists an upper hand in highlighting what are some of the world’s best show dogs in the best possible way. I don’t think you would see Lisa Croft-Elliott trying to photograph the Olympic Gymnastic Trials, now, would you? Well, maybe you would, but you get my drift.
If you agree, I suggest you drop a line to Westminster Kennel Club president Dr. Donald Sturz respectfully requesting we go back to those who can do our sport, and our dogs, justice.
Many of us are still in disbelief about the loss of our dear friend, Kaz Hosaka. For those looking for a way to honor Kaz, a memorial donation to Take The Lead in Memory of Kaz is a good way https://takethelead.org/donation/. There will be a space where you can dedicate the donation in Kaz’s memory.
This past Sunday, Kaz was honored on National Television during the CBS Sunday Morning show. It was well-deserved recognition of the wonderful sportsman, husband, and friend that was Kaz Hosaka.
I was delighted to see that Rodney Merry returned to the center of the ring for the first time since his surgery. Rodney has demonstrated true determination in his recovery from major surgery! Welcome back, my friend!
Katherine Wurz-Smoot is back running left-handed circles after a short absence due to a neck injury. Take it nice and easy, girl! We are glad to have you back.
Alan Hargrave is another fancier with true grit and determination. He will not let illness stand in his way! Alan now has a catheter that will enable him to receive dialysis at home and while he is traveling! He is a true example of not letting anything get in his way of living his life! Enjoy, my friend!
The “Men in Orange” have been hard at work putting together an online portal for parking, RV reservations, grooming, etc. for shows they manage. The site is now live at www.sitecontrolservices.com. It is their plan that after premium lists are published, reserved grooming, parking, etc. will be made available on their site. Nice work, Harry and John Miller and company!!!
It is with great sadness I report that Dalmatian fancier Barbara Lyons passed away suddenly just days after the Dalmatian Club of America National Specialty. Barbara was a 34-year member of the Dalmatian Club of America, and she served several terms as a Board Member. The sport has lost yet another bright light, and she will be sorely missed. Sincere condolences to Barbara’s husband, Jim, and the rest of her family and friends.
For those who are following the Adam King case: Dr. King’s request to be released from jail pending trial was DENIED. I am unaware of a trial date at this time, but I will be sure to keep you posted.
At its June meeting, the AKC Delegate body did NOT pass the proposed amendment to do away with Board Term Limits. As a result, the two-term Board Limit shall stand. The vote required a two-thirds majority to pass, and the vote was 137 in favor and 114 opposed.
There has been yet another change to the Judge’s Approval Process. Previously, judges had to request approval from Judging Operations to apply for breeds beyond four groups. That number has been reduced to two groups. As a result, anyone wishing to apply for additional breeds beyond two full groups must first request permission from Judging Operations.
Fanciers Steve and Moira Terry have been able to return to their home after being evacuated due to the fires. While they have spotty electric and internet service, they are glad to be home. There are now floods to contend with, but hopefully the worst is behind them, and they can now rebuild. It is a huge relief that they were able to evacuate with all their animals and no one was harmed!
Fanciers celebrating birthdays this week include: Bruce Schwartz, Tracy Szaras, Lisa Porter, Victoria Cornish, George Marquis, Ashlie Whitmore, Heidi Gervais, Rod Ott, Laura King, Christian Rutten, Toshi Omura and Ron Spritzer. Enjoy your special day, my friends!
Happy 4th of July one and all! Keep those four-legged friends indoors and turn up the music! If your travels bring you to Monroe, Michigan, please stop by the Purina booth. Be safe out there and I’ll see you soon down the road. Until next time…
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