Table Talk · February 22, 2023
It’s amazing how our lives can change in an instant. Last week, I was perusing social media and enjoying Westminster memories from years gone by. I saw photos of my friends sharing some of their happiest moments–from exciting wins, to joyous celebrations, to time spent with beloved friends.
Fast-forward a few days. Now, I am having a difficult time looking at my computer. I keep seeing photographs and memories of my friend Dennis McCoy, known fondly as “D” to many of us. While these memories are of happier times when Dennis was with us, I am having a difficult time wrapping my head around the fact that he is gone. It was so sudden, and final. As most know, Dennis was world-famous professional handler. When he retired from handling to begin judging, he had an equally successful judging career. Dennis contributed so much to our sport. He was active in the Poodle Club of America as President for many years, and he was the Cluster Chair for the Tar Heel Circuit. Oh, how Dennis loved that microphone! At Poodle Club of America and the Tar Heel Circuit, one could always find Dennis sitting in his Director’s Chair talking on that microphone! He was always impeccably dressed. He loved fashion and great clothes, and he always looked fabulous with his glasses matching his outfit. His ties were the envy of many. Dennis had an amazing smile and was always a joy to be around. I always looked forward to spending time with Dennis and talking dogs. Whenever possible, he and his husband Randy Garren could be found at the Take the Lead booth as the organization was near and dear to their hearts.
I am deeply saddened when we lose any member of our dog family, but this one is especially tough for me, and for others. I am going to miss you, “D”. Rest well my dear friend. Sincere condolences to his husband, Randy Garren, and his dear friend, Jackie Beaudoin, as well as all the others that had the opportunity to have him in their lives. The dog world is a sadder place without Dennis McCoy in its midst.
I have good news for Northern California fanciers!!!! The Golden Gate Kennel Club plans on having a show in 2024! Stay tuned for more details.
Maddie and Adam Peterson attended their first dog show with their son, Hudson. Welcome back, my friends! Enjoy that beautiful baby boy!
Johnny Shoemaker spent a bit of time in the hospital and had to cancel his judging assignments, but he is back home and feeling much better! We look forward to seeing you back at shows soon, my friend!
I heard that Carol White-Moser was taken from the Sun Maid Kennel Club show by ambulance. As it turns out, she was severely dehydrated, and returned to the show the following day. I am glad it was nothing serious!
If you are planning to attend the Kentuckiana Cluster in Louisville, do not forget to send in your reserved grooming reservations! Reservations can be emailed to Nina Fetter at louisvillegrooming@yahoo.com. I look forward to spending time with those that will be attending and sharing the cluster with those who cannot make it.
Happy 40th anniversary to Bryan and Nancy Martin! You guys must have been married when you were babies! David and Laura Johnson are celebrating their 30th anniversary. May you guys have many more love-filled, healthy years ahead.
Fanciers celebrating birthdays this week are: Kate Berry, Susanna Bjornsson, Valerie Rickard, Diane Severns, Anne Reagan, Ed Fojtik, Jenn Baggenstos, Rindi Gaudet, Charlotte Patterson, Maddie Peterson, Heather Buehner, Lynda O’Connor-Schneider, Susan Sprung, Kris Johnson, Cassidy Jackson, Dennis Brown, Coco Seror, Erin Olsen, Allison Sunderman, Blair Aguillard Commisso and Michelle Montes-Capton. Make your special day a great one, my friends!!
I leave you this week with this thought:
The Dog Hair
The dog is gone. We miss him. When the doorbell rings, no one barks. When we come home late, there is no one waiting for us. We still find his white hairs here and there around the house and on our clothes. We pick them up. We should throw them away, but they are ALL we have left of him. We don’t throw them away. We have a wild hope–if only we collect enough of them, we will be able to put our dog back together again.
Be safe out there my friends. Tell your family and friends you love them. Make the phone call. Tomorrow is not promised! Until next time…
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