Table Talk · January 20, 2020
Table Talk · January 20, 2020
I spent last week and weekend with my Pacific Northwest friends at the Rose City Cluster in Portland, Oregon. It was great to get back to that area of the country. I had not attended a show in the Pacific Northwest in about 8 years. The Rose City Cluster offers a great opportunity for spectator education, judge’s education, majors in many breeds, plus it’s a great venue for a dog show. I have had discussions with many exhibitors, judges, and other officials about the increasing length of dog shows; and the Rose City Cluster is another long one! Thursday’s show, with an entry of 1,809, began at 8 AM and the Best In Show photo was taken at 7 PM, which was the earliest any show concluded during the cluster. Saturday’s show, with the largest entry of the cluster at 2,317, ended at 7:30 PM and this was mostly due to AKC Field Representative Diana Wilson’s vigilance in keeping the groups moving. A huge shout-out to Diana for her efforts, as we easily could have been there until 9 PM! While we all recognize that putting on shows of this size is no small or easy task, clubs and superintendents need to work together to come up with ways to shorten the days. These 11-12 hour shows (sometimes more) are not good for the humans or the dogs!
Mentoring new exhibitors is something that we have discussed quite frequently. I believe that we all recognize that a critical element to keeping our sport alive is being inclusive, and mentoring those that are interested in getting involved. This does not only apply to mentoring young, aspiring exhibitors, but also those that show interest in becoming involved in clubs, and putting on shows.
I have had a couple conversations recently with individuals who have shared their knowledge and experience with young, aspiring exhibitors and have been disappointed by the lack of appreciation and loyalty they have received in return. Those who are benefitting from a mentor should keep in mind that a bit of loyalty and appreciation goes a long way. Mentors should keep in mind that you are also teaching those young, aspiring exhibitors how to conduct themselves, and how to treat others. If everyone gives consideration to this side of the spectrum, perhaps we can maximize the positive, long-term result of the relationship.
Weather in the Midwest this past week challenged those who were travelling to the Des Moines cluster. Darryl Vice, who was on the judging panel, spent more time than he wanted to at the lovely Phoenix airport, and some handlers decided that the potential danger of going to the show was enough to make them decide to stay home.
A word of warning to all club officials! The scammers are at it again. If you receive an email that requests financial information for your club, please be sure to check it out carefully before you provide any information!
I hear Desi Murphy is off to Bangkok to judge. After 21 hours of flying time, I hope he gets some rest before judging starts!
I am sorry to report that Val Nunes-Atkinson’s mother, Emily Ehrenfeld, lost her valiant battle with cancer last week. Val had the opportunity to spend quality time with her mom, which made memories that will last her a lifetime. We extend our condolences to Val and her family on the loss of a wonderful woman, mother, grandmother and friend.
The sport of purebred dogs is also mourning the loss of another icon. Dany Canino passed away last week. Known for her “Lets Rock and Roll” comment as she took dogs around the ring, Dany will be sorely missed by the fancy. Our sympathies to Dany’s friends and family at this difficult time.
Healing thoughts to Saluki fancier Lois Ann Snyder as she undergoes treatment for ovarian cancer. You’ve got this, Lois, and we are all thinking about you! We will see you back at the shows soon.
The Westminster judging program is out and there is important logistic information contained in it. Exhibitor unloading will begin at 9 AM when the staging area opens and Pier 94 will open for unloading at 10 AM on Saturday. The building will remain open until 11 PM Saturday. Shuttles from the pier to the hotels will continue until 10:30 PM Saturday. Please remember the parking facility at the pier is closed. If you are driving a vehicle, it would be of great benefit to know where you are going to park your vehicle! Please remember to be kind to the men in orange. They will do their best to make logistics at the pier as efficient as possible.
Celebrating birthdays this week are: Nancy Martin, Armando Angelbello, Daryl Martin, Adam King, Kristen Dowd, David Cook, John Wade and Marcelo Veras. Happy birthday, my friends! May you have a joyous day!
Be safe out there, my friends, and don’t forget to enjoy the moment. Be the reason someone smiles today! Until next time…
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