Table Talk · June 21, 2023
A belated Happy Father’s Day to all the human and canine dads out there! I hope everyone was able to celebrate the dads in their lives together–be it at a dog show, at home, on vacation, etc.!
This past week has been a sad and tragic time for everyone in our sport. I hope everyone can find a bit of comfort by realizing that no matter what, we all have each other. Our community–even though it spans the nation and the world–is a tight-knit family that has each other’s back. In times of need our differences are set aside, and we rise to the occasion whatever it may be, to be there for each other. We must continue this tradition in these very difficult times, and remember to be there for each other; tell your friends you love them, and check in with those who you have not spoken to for awhile.
I met Mike Berry many years ago when I began working dog shows on the West Coast with some regularity. When I met him, he was assisting Mo Miyagawa and he was such a kind, fun guy. I was so happy for Kate when she and Mike got together. Kate truly deserved to have such a wonderful man in her life. Kate and Mike got married and made a beautiful life for themselves, and then their bundle of joy, “Baby A”, arrived on the scene. What a beautiful family! Watching the way that tiny human worshiped his dad and watching the love between them always warmed my heart. Mike fought hard to prevail, but in the end, his illness was too much for him to overcome. Kate has been the consummate warrior, mother, and wife. As someone said, “If you ever get the chance to meet her, deal with her, or just hug her, do so I admire her so.” Kate, we are all in your corner as you work through this tragic, unfair life change. One thing we know for sure is YOU’VE GOT THIS! As Dana Cline said, “How lucky we are to have had something that made saying goodbye so hard”. Rest easy, Mike Berry. Your dog show family will always keep our arms around Kate and Aiden.
As if the tragedy surrounding Mike Berry’s heart attack and eventual passing was not enough, another tragedy struck at the Sunshine State Cluster in Tampa, Florida when the RV owned by Rick and Mandy Justice caught fire and the five dogs inside perished. Except for a couple of bad seeds who found it necessary to post videos and make negative comments, those in our sport once again came together to do everything they could to help in this horrific situation. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Rick and Mandy, the dogs lost, their owners and breeders. This type of tragedy is every handler’s nightmare.
Blake Hansen collapsed in Tampa and was rushed to the hospital. It turns out he suffered from dehydration and exhaustion, and possibly the after-effects from smoke inhalation due to his efforts to help with the burning RV. He was able to return to the show and finish the weekend. Hang in there, Blake, and thank you for your efforts! Get some rest!
Long-time American Eskimo breeder Jackie Blackburn passed away on June 11th. Jackie bred American Eskimos under the Ladell kennel name. She was a cherished friend and will be missed by all who knew her.
Jordan Chamberlain, a long-time poodle fancier and AKC judge, passed away this past week. Jordan was always kind and friendly and was well-respected by many in our sport. He will be deeply missed by so many people.
Stan Matsumoto was hospitalized for fluid retention and subsequently released. Stan is resting up for his transplant next month. Best wishes for a safe transplant journey, my friend. Take care of yourself!
Congratulations to Tiffany Skinner’s ride or die assistant, Andrew Mueller, and his fiancé, Vienna Yeadon, on their recent engagement. May you lovebirds have a wonderful life together.
Fanciers that have celebrated anniversaries this past week include: Jann Butler and Will Bratcher, Kevin and Julie Ellingson, and Anna Stromberg and Ben Franzoso. Best wishes for another great year.
Birthday wishes go out to Vicki Seiler-Cushman, Erica Vogt, Perry Payson, Jessica Flach, and Mary Norton. May you have another safe, happy, healthy trip around the sun this year!
In the blink of an eye, everything can change. Forgive often and love with all your heart. You never know when you may not have that chance again.
Love to all of you! Be safe wherever your journey takes you next. hose traveling to Oklahoma for the first stop of the Texas march, please remember to pace yourselves! It is a marathon, not a sprint. I look forward to seeing you near the end of the journey in Houston. Until next time…
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