Table Talk – July 11, 2018
I just returned from the Summerfest cluster that was held at their new venue at the California State University Channel Cities campus. This was my first time attending these shows. The clubs are working very hard to accommodate the specialty clubs that are part of this event and make them comfortable. They had all the specialties set up in the quad to provide ample space for their set-ups, individual club hospitality tents, etc. The additional rings were located across the campus where there was a lot of shade from trees. Mother Nature had her say and record high temperatures were beyond the clubs control; however they provided plenty of ice and water for the exhibitors and their dogs. I did hear an exhibitor or two complaining about the conditions, which, in my opinion was very unfair to the show committee. When weather calls for record high temperatures, it is the exhibitor’s responsibility to make the decision (hopefully the best decision) for their dogs regarding whether to attend the show or not. All dogs have a different tolerance for heat, and your decision should depend on how and if you are able to keep your dogs cool at the show. If you have an air-conditioned rig, the decision may be quite different than if you do not. In any event, the decision to attend the show is up to each individual, and in my humble opinion, one cannot blame a club if they decide to attend the show and then are met with the extreme heat conditions that were promised in the weather forecast.
Sadly, the California heat caused more fires and Bob and Deedee Caswell lost their home. They got 7 of their dogs out, but some were lost in the fire. Our thoughts are with Bob and Deedee at this tragic time.
Erin Hall received her kidney transplant this week! Cody Whalen, a family friend, donated the kidney and the surgery was conducted Tuesday. Erin and Cody are out of surgery and… so far so good! Healing thoughts to both as they recover.
Congratulations to Kellye and Nick Riani on the birth of their baby girl, Kaylynn Ann Riani, who was born July 8th. She weighed in at 7 pounds 12 ounces and measured 20.5 inches long.
I was sad to hear that Clint Harris has taken a fall and is currently hospitalized for a broken hip. Healing thoughts to Clint. Hopefully he will be up and about soon!
Houston Clark had a short visit to the hospital recently to have a kidney stone removed. Toddie says Houston is back home and doing well. We wish our best to both of them.
I was saddened to hear that dog fancier and sculptor Jim Gion passed away recently. Our thoughts and prayers are with Jim’s family and friends at this difficult time.
It is hard to believe that Andrea and Jack McIlwaine are celebrating 35 years of wedded bliss! You guys must have been married when you were still in grammar school! Happy Anniversary and may you have many more.
Among our friends celebrating birthdays this week is Madeline Albright, one of the founding members of the Chinese Shar-Pei Club of America. She turns 101 years old! Happy Birthday my friend. You are truly an inspiration.
Also celebrating birthdays this week are: Jamie Larkman, Bob Shreve, Arlene Davis, Delores Burkholder, Shari Lee, Jim Ham, Terri Erickson and Paula Nykiel.
Please be careful out there in the heat my friends! That one ribbon is not worth risking the health of people and dogs. Wherever your travels take you, be careful and be kind! Until next time…
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