Table Talk
It seems that the flu virus panic is, thankfully, calming down. The good news is the West Coast has not been affected as much as the South, or the Southeast. I believe the overall impact has been minimized by the fancy’s diligence and I congratulate everyone for the part they played. Most people acted responsibly and help tamp down the spread of this virus. The canine flu really has not impacted the absentee rate on the Idaho/Montana circuit, however the South and Southeast is still seeing a 50-60% absentee rate that I think will level off in the next couple of weeks.
Congratulations to the East Idaho Spring Classic for making the extra effort and disinfecting the entire show building each night when judging was complete. This cluster continues to be exhibitor friendly, providing hospitality during group judging and new title ribbons and medallions. The weather in Blackfoot this year was spectacular and a good time was had by all in attendance.
The Grayslake Cluster was also held this past weekend. This cluster has grown to five days and tallied 1500 dogs on the biggest day, which is up about 150 from last year. The first day is all specialties followed by four all breed shows. The show committee does a spectacular job ensuring a positive exhibitor experience. They are up to about 30 specialties now, and growing each year. The Grayslake Cluster has a very unique competition called “the best of the best” where they have the winners of all specialties compete for the best of the best. The judge for this competition is kept secret and always a surprise. Last year the judge was George Alston and this year it was Wayne Cavanaugh, former owner of the United Kennel Club. Wayne is recognized by all as a great dog man. The Grayslake Cluster provides pizza for everyone in attendance and gives a $1500 prize for the winner.
A significant effort was made to be conscientious about preventing the spread of the flu virus there, too. Extra volunteers were recruited to clean tables between each dog being exhibited, etc. Congrats to the Grayslake Show Committee for a job well done!
Kudos to Linda Pitts for organizing a fundraiser to benefit the Sunshine State Cluster in Tampa. This cluster’s entries experienced a significant decline resulting from concern about the flu virus. I don’t think exhibitors realize how difficult it is for clubs when something such as this flu virus so significantly affects their entry and/or their attendance.
My most sincere sympathy to the owners and handler of Hickory aka CH. Foxcliffe Hickory Wind, the Scottish Deerhound who won Best In Show at the 2011 Westminster Kennel Club, on her recent passing. I always enjoyed watching the significant bond between Angie and Hickory. She may be gone, but will never be forgotten!
The fancy lost another great dog person in English Cocker breeder David Flanagan who passed away last week.
It is great to hear that Roxanne Hosaka is doing better after her serious cycling accident. She is in physical therapy and doing well. We hope to see her at a show soon!
Randy Benz and Lisa Haney are off to Costa Rica for some R&R! Safe travels guys and have a great time!
Celebrating birthdays this week are Linda Robey, Vicki Seiler Cushman, Perry Payson and Joanie Katz.
Safe travels to all and enjoy the summer months! Until next time…
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