Table Talk · February 17, 2021
I hope that everyone is enjoying all of the memories of Westminster that are appearing on social media. I have certainly enjoyed this trip down memory lane. While this past year has been a wake-up call for all of us, this past week–seeing all of the memories from everyone and having my own recollections–has made me realize that I have taken the opportunity to be able to go to the Big Apple, spend time with friends from all over the world, enjoy great dogs, and celebrate the sport for granted. In fact, I think we all took our sport for granted, and I hope that we have learned that going to the next show is never a promise. We all need to work together to preserve our sport and celebrate it with every opportunity we get! If you are not involved with a club, or do not help at a show, there couldn’t be a better time to get involved!
As winter storms sweep across the nation, including areas that are not accustomed to such pretty white stuff, travel is dangerous; and it’s creating challenges for clubs holding shows this week. The Cheyenne, Wyoming group shows were cancelled last weekend due to concerns about safety due to frigid conditions.
A note to those traveling to the Midland, Texas cluster of dog shows scheduled to begin Thursday: Please be sure to check with show officials regarding Thursday’s show. Weather-related travel challenges may affect the ability of some of the judges to arrive in time for Thursday’s show. Power outages in the area are another challenge that the hard-working club members face as they try to ensure the show goes on this week.
The AKC Delegate Junior Showmanship Sub-Committee is encouraging clubs to establish a Junior Coordinator role. Any club that has questions about establishing this role should contact either Mari-Beth O’Neill, Vice President, Sport Services for the American Kennel Club, or Nancy Fisk, Chair of the Junior Sub-Committee. The individual in this role would be the liaison between the club and the AKC for matters relating to Junior Showmanship.
Long-time show superintendent Tonya Jordan is retiring! As a result, the Florida offices of MB-F will be closing effective March 5, 2021. Best wishes for a fun-filled retirement, Tonya: You will be missed!
After many years together, Robert Chaffin and Terri Galle have tied the knot! Congratulations to these lovebirds! May you enjoy many years of wedded bliss.
Best wishes to Lauren Lavitt and Robert Portal who welcomed their baby girl, Sophia Jane Portal, on February 7th. Sophia Jane weighed in at 7 lb. 12 oz. Enjoy your bundle of joy, my friends!
Our sport lost one of its greatest icons on Valentine’s Day. Frank Sabella passed away at the age of 91. Frank touched the lives of so many and he was an idol to all who had the pleasure of knowing him. His wealth of knowledge, dedicated spirit, and sharp wit will be sorely missed. Rest well, my friend.
I am sorry to report that Scottish Terrier fancier Tom Parrotti passed away over the weekend. Tom was an AKC licensed judge approved to judge all terriers. He was adored by all who crossed his path. The fancy will miss him dearly.
Celebrating wedding anniversaries this week are David and Larra Johnson and Dick and Cathy Schaefer. Dick will have more time to celebrate with his lovely bride, since he recently retired from handling. Enjoy your retirement, Dick, and enjoy your new home in Arizona!
Celebrating birthdays this week are Lenny Greminger, Colette (Coco) Seror, Ryan Dillman, Erin Olsen, Blair Aguillard Commisso, Allison Sunderman, Kate Berry, Anne Reagan, Susanna Bjornsson and Bergit Kabel. May each of you enjoy your special day with friends and loved ones!
Be safe out there, my friends! Travel safely as the roads are treacherous right now!
Remember this: At the end of the day, we all love our dogs. So win with grace and lose with dignity. Dog shows should be fun for everyone!
I’ll see you soon down the road. Until next time…
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