Table Talk · June 1, 2022
This year’s Mission Circuit is in the books. It was so wonderful to have this cluster back after a two-year hiatus due to COVID restrictions. Due to the high cost of rent at the Fairplex in Pomona, California and the fair dates being reschedules, the Mission Circuit Cluster committee changed locations and secured a beautiful venue at the San Bernardino Soccer Complex. To make the cluster committee’s job even more difficult, two all-around judges cancelled just before the weekend. As with any new venue, there are bugs to be worked out–how the grounds are set up and parking is arranged–but all in all, the cluster received a big thumbs up from those attending.
Cluster volunteers, the show superintendent, and the AKC Representative worked very hard to cover all the assignments of the judges who cancelled on short notice. This required several schedule changes; and with shows is 12 locations this past weekend, judges licensed to judge all breeds, or most breeds, were hard to come by! Some serious teamwork resulted in all assignments being covered with inconvenience to exhibitors minimized as much as possible. Sadly, there were some exhibitors who felt it necessary to lash out at those who were trying to solve the problem, which–in my humble opinion–was unnecessary and counterproductive. In one case, I watched as a disgruntled exhibitor unloaded on the show superintendent, show chairman, and the AKC Representative as they were trying to finish up re-assigning breeds. Please note: When last minute judge changes occur, no one is happy. Please remember to be kind. If you have suggestions about how to solve the problem, speak up, but be constructive. Remember, you don’t have to show to the replacement judge who is assigned to your breed, and you can request a refund of your entry fee.
I am certain that due to all the hard work of the Mission Circuit club members this year, the entry totals of shows will increase next year, and be back to the number we saw in the past. The biggest concern I heard leading up to the circuit was about the heat. The cluster was well-prepared for hot weather with several tents that provided shade. Luckily, we were blessed with amazing weather this year. THANK YOU to all involved for a job well done!
Sam McDonald took a fall in the ring while judging Boxers at the Los Encinos show on Monday. He tripped over the tent rope and in true Sam fashion would not allow anyone to even help him up! He shook it off and was back to judging in a matter of minutes!
As you may or may not have heard, Pat Trotter got tripped at home by one of her young dogs and sustained a knee injury. As a result, she was unable to fulfill her judging assignment in Wyoming. Heal quickly, Pat! We are all waiting to have you back in top shape as soon as possible!
The fancy lost another icon this past week. Karen Miller, the matriarch of the famed Loujon Kennels passed away. So many fanciers remember Karen for her knowledge, wit, and mentorship, as well as outstanding English Springer Spaniels and English Toy Spaniels. I personally enjoyed many great discussions with her about dogs over the years, and I will greatly miss those chats with her at shows. Our deepest condolences to Karen’s family and friends at this most difficult time.
Our sympathies go out to Jeri Gilpatrick and her daughter, Rindi Gaudet, on the loss of Geri’s husband and Rindi’s stepfather, Al Gilpatrick, who passed away suddenly this past week. Our thoughts are with you at this very sad time.
There are many groups on social media dedicated to the sport of purebred dogs. These groups are great for planning major entries, upcoming shows, and giving assistance to those new to the sport. Sadly, some fanciers still find it necessary to communicate their negative feelings toward a dog that won on a given day, or the way a judge awarded a breed or a group. This behavior is so unnecessary and hurtful. Please keep in mind that one can suffer negative consequences for unsportsmanlike comments, such as a fine or even suspension from the American Kennel Club. Further, this type of behavior might discourage newcomers from staying involved in the sport.
Happy Anniversary to Gabriel and Ivonne Rangel, Erin Kerfoot and Ryan McGlothlin, Terri and Paul Erickson, and Luke and Rowan Baggenstos! I hope all of you are able to celebrate in style.
Fanciers celebrating birthdays this week are: Lynn Meyer, Janet Lange, Chris Keith, Lori Wilson-Paust, Shawn Nichols, Christina Freitag, Karissa Smith-Lewis, Judy Ellis, Jennifer Hoffmann, Kim Booth, Guy Fisher, and Jody Paquette-Garcini. Enjoy your special day my friends!
This week’s thought is this: The Person you took for granted today may turn out to be the person you need tomorrow. Be careful how you treat people!!!!!
Thanks to all who stopped by to say hi at the Mission Circuit! Please be sure to come by the Purina Booth at Woofstock in your hippie wear: your photo just may show up on the Canine Chronicle Facebook Page and website!
Be safe and be kind! Until next time…
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