Table Talk • September 2, 2026
While the sport of purebred dogs has endured several weeks of sad and disturbing news, we must continue to celebrate the good. I would like to commend the tireless efforts of the volunteers of the Penn Ridge Kennel Club and the Penn Ridge Kennel Club Charitable Foundation for the good work they do. What started years ago as a small fundraising event has evolved into an annual celebration of our sport. Fanciers travel from near and far not only to participate in the Huntingdon Valley Kennel Club and the Penn Ridge Kennel Club shows, but to attend the social and fundraising events as well. In addition, people travel across the county to voluntarily assist with the show, the fundraising efforts, and the special events while giving up a weekend of showing dogs.
This year, over $30,000 was raised for charities including Take The Lead, The Canine Health Foundation, The George Ward Scholarship fund, etc. These fundraising efforts would not be possible without the generous donations from fanciers and supporters, and the tireless hours put in by all the volunteers and led by Charlie Olvis and Liz Muthard. Thank you to one and all for your efforts.
For many West Coast fanciers, the Mission Circuit in Southern California has been a Memorial Day weekend destination for decades. Unfortunately, the cost of venues has been a challenge, but that has not stopped the cluster from persevering and finding alternative, more affordable locations. I believe everyone will agree that this year’s venue was a wonderful place for the show. Due to scheduling conflicts, the Mission Circuit for 2027 will be moving dates to the second week of July. Kudos to all involved for your hard work and efforts to reschedule so you can keep this beautiful venue.
Heads up to all exhibitors that are planning on staying at the Hyatt for this year’s AKC National Championship week in Orlando: the AKC room block is open and rooms are selling fast! Contact the Hyatt and ask for the AKC National Championship rate ($182/night).
I heard that Sid Marx is having surgery that is forcing him to cancel a couple of judging assignments. Sid plans to be back in the center of the ring in November. Best wishes for a quick recovery, Sid!
A celebration of life will be held for Nicki King at the Lebanon, Indiana dog shows located at the Boone County Fairgrounds on Saturday, September 12th. Please stay tuned for more details.
This just in from AKC! Effective April 2026, regular and non-regular class ribbons no longer need to display show dates. This affects class placements for first through fourth place only. Reserve, Winners, BOB, and Group Placements/BIS require the show date. This change could save clubs money. If you receive class ribbons and do not want them, please consider giving them back to the club to be recycled!
Happy Anniversary to lovebirds Tim and Megan Terella! Best wishes for many more healthy, happy years ahead!
Fanciers celebrating birthdays this week include Peggy Beisel-McIlwaine, Tanner Congleton, Sioux Forsyth-Green, Kathy Harrington, Beep Lee, Susan Shephard, Brianne Weber, Connie Clark, and Darla Kays-Daugherty. May this coming year bring you cherished memories, big wins, and beautiful puppies.
Please remember my friends: A ribbon can wait. A ring time can be missed. A grooming job can be finished later. A conversation can be interrupted. The dog comes first. Every dog. Every time.
I leave you this week with words of wisdom from Annie Clark: “Great dogs are born, but many never see the inside of a Best In Show ring because great dogs not only must be bred to be great – they must be RAISED to be great.”
Wherever your travels take you, be safe out there, my friends! Keep your eyes open, and if something appears amiss, say something. I will see you soon down the road! Until next time…
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