Table Talk · March 31, 2021
It has been another busy week in the sport of purebred dogs!!! As things open up, and fanciers have more choices of shows to attend, things are definitely beginning to feel, well, normal! Please remember that while it may appear that things are getting “back to normal”, hard-working club volunteers are still met with huge challenges from venues, state and local guidelines, federal mandates, travel restrictions, judge availability, etc. Little acts of kindness and thanks go a long way, my friends. A kind nod or thank you, may be just what a volunteer needs to keep them from throwing in the towel! If you have a concern about something happening at the show, express it directly to the appropriate party calmly and with respect. I am sure they will do their best to deal with the problem! Let’s get back to what we love while being kinder and stronger than before!
Exhibitors in Jackson, Tennessee had their circuit cut short due to nasty weather that began Saturday night and continued into Sunday morning. The storm caused severe flooding in the area. Fortunately, no one was injured, and everyone was able to load up and be on their way safely. Once again, the fancy banned together to help one another. It always warms my heart to hear of how those within the sport are able to work together during challenging times. Kudos to all for your efforts.
I had the chance to catch up with Ann Viklund from Purina about the status of the opening of the Purina Event Center. I am very excited to report that the Event Center is still scheduled to open in May and shows scheduled there are a go! She said COVID protocol will be enforced. I will keep everyone posted as to when you will begin to see the Purina booth at sponsored events. Through the pandemic, Purina has continued to provide sponsorship to shows even though they have not been in attendance.
The Jersey Shore Cluster scheduled for May 27-31 is in need of stewards! If you are able to help out, please contact them via their Facebook page.
Linda Williams checked in to let us know that even though they had an incident with their trailer–and it ended up in a ditch–Midwest Pet Supply will still be available to assist exhibitors with their pet supply needs at upcoming Midwest shows. They are back on the road again! I’m glad to hear that everyone is okay, and this long-time general vendor is still thriving!
The Del Sur Kennel Club held an educational Zoom meeting with AKC Executive Field Representative Larry Cornelius to discuss the challenges of holding a show during the pandemic and how to deal with COVID protocol, etc. The meeting was open to all who were interested. Kennel Clubs who are interested in holding educational programs should not hesitate to reach out to their area AKC Field Reps.
I was disappointed to hear that Crufts 2021 has been cancelled. Perhaps we can all take this opportunity to save our pennies so we can make the trip in 2022!!
Jane and Greg Myers have landed safely in Ocala! Welcome home, my friends. We are glad that you made it there safe and sound.
I have spoken with several fanciers who have participated in the online SafeSport program, and I am encouraged by their reports. I think this is just the beginning of the effort to make our sport a safer place for all. I will be taking the course this coming week and I will report back about my experience. I encourage everyone to join me. You can access the program at www.safesport.org.
I am watching my mailbox with great anticipation. Rhonda Cassidy’s dog photo book and the Dog People Can Cook, cookbook, are on their way to those who have ordered them! The Dog People Can Cook, cookbook is sold out, but if you are interested in Rhonda’s book, please reach out to her, as copies may still be available.
I was sorry to hear that Afghan fancier and handler Alicia Morrison Jones is experiencing some health challenges. She was recently diagnosed with lymphocytic leukemia. Alicia has every intention of fighting this battle to a victory. We are all pulling for you Alicia and please remember we are here for you, my friend.
Healing thoughts to Red Tatro who missed the Fort Worth KC show on Sunday due to illness. Red went in for exploratory surgery due to an obstruction. He and Denise have had a rough time recently and they are in our thoughts and prayers. Here’s to better days ahead!
I was saddened to hear of the passing of AKC Judge and Labrador Retriever fancier Colonel Jerry Weiss. Colonel Weiss was always a pleasure to have at the shows, and he will be sorely missed by the fancy and all that knew him. Rest in Peace, my friend.
It is with great sadness that I pass on the news that Old English Sheepdog and Tibetan Terrier fancier Bob Stillwaggon has passed away. Bob was a steadfast supporter of the sport of purebred dogs for more than 50 years. He was the past president of both Pasco Florida Kennel Club and Hernando County Kennel Club. Our sympathy to Bob’s family and friends at this difficult time.
Happy Anniversary to Chris Ann and Ronnie Moore. It seems like just yesterday that you guys tied the knot! May you have many more happy, healthy years of joy and togetherness.
Celebrating birthdays this week are: Lorna Menaker, Bobby Paust, Per Ingar Rismyhr, Tiffany Saxon, David Powers, Terri Meyers, Daniel Stutzman, Tim Thomas, Tracy Swinson, Peggy McDill, Shelby Roberts, Stan Matsumoto, Justin Van Deren, David Frei, Sarah Perchick, Erin Karst, Barb Ohmann and Chris Jones.
I hope to see many of you in Henderson, Nevada at the Silver State Kennel Club shows this coming weekend! Be safe in your travels. Until next time…
Short URL: https://caninechronicle.com/?p=199340
Posted by Comments are closed
