Table Talk · March 8, 2023
In this month’s From the Publisher column (http://caninechronicle.com/current-articles/from-the-publisher-39/), Tom Grabe talks about a 2012 interview in CC with one of my all-time favorite judges, Mr. Edd Bivin. In that discussion, Mr. Bivin encourages new exhibitors to look around the ring and enjoy the moment! Tom also chats about his first time at a show, hoping for a kind nod, someone to help him find a spot to set up his crate, or help navigating the terrain that we call the Sport of Purebred Dogs. Both men–who have been around for a minute or two–give common advice: ENJOY THE MOMENT WITH YOUR DOG! Tom encourages everyone involved in shows–Judges, support staff, exhibitors, etc.–to take a minute and help those new to our sport navigate the terrain of the Sport of Purebred Dogs. We have ALL been there. We should always remember our first time at a dog show and try to make that first time for someone else more enjoyable. Hopefully, it will ensure their return! I encourage everyone to think about how to help someone who is just starting out. Then, most importantly, you need to execute that idea when you arrive at the show! If we all remember that kindness is a two-way street, I think we will all enjoy dog shows more. It’s a simple tenet: treat others the way you hope to be treated!
Our sport is quite competitive. When we start out, we are excited to be in the ribbons in the classes. Naturally, the next goal is to finish your first dog’s championship. If we are fortunate enough to have a dog that is competitive in the breed ring, we shoot for that coveted Best of Breed win. Each goal becomes more difficult to attain. In my humble opinion we should covet each win, enjoy each moment in the ring, and cherish each ribbon handed to us!
I’ll be excited to see everyone in Louisville at the Kentuckiana Cluster! Once again, the entry is quite impressive making this one of the largest clusters in the country! The entry ranges from 3234 to 3749 with 4-6 puppy entries from 121-148!!! Wow! Yours truly will be taking a trip around the ring with my 4-6 puppy, and I am very excited to do a left-handed circle or two with my little guy! Come join the fun!
It is that time of year again! Those who sent in entries for the 147th Westminster Kennel Club Dog show being held May 8th and 9th at the Billie Jean King Tennis Center in Queens are waiting nervously to find out if their entries were accepted. The good news (and bad) is on the way, folks. Many have already received their confirmation of entry. Others were disappointed to find out their entry was not chosen in the lottery. If you have not received a notification yet, it will be there any day now! Stay tuned for a Table Talk Live! segment with Gail Miller Bisher where we will discuss all things Westminster and give viewers an update on important information about the show.
Speaking of Westminster, congratulations to Donald Sturz, Jr. who has been appointed President of Westminster Kennel Club for 2023! For other appointments, please go to www.westminsterkennelclub.org/about-sensation/club-information.
The pilot program that allows AKC Canine Partners to participate in regular Junior Showmanship at all-breed and group shows has ended. Per Guy Fisher, AKC Manager of Development, if a premium list has been published for a club participating in the pilot program, those events can continue as planned. At all other regular Junior Showmanship shows, there is no need to publish information in the event documentation about a club “opting in” or “opting out” of the pilot program. Contact eventplans@akc.org if you have any questions.
Gino Pavlopoulous, a handler from Peru who has been over to the states many times exhibiting dogs, was in an accident and suffered extensive damage to his foot. He spent several days in ICU, and while he is out of imminent danger, he has several surgeries ahead of him. Those who wish to check on Gino, or offer support, can contact his wife Leydia Larcon at leydialarcon47@gmail.com. Get well soon, Gino!
Many of our friends are celebrating anniversaries this week! Scott Pfeil and Jamie Donahue are celebrating 7 years together. Kristyn and David Stout are also celebrating their special day. Ric and Lea Plaut are enjoying retirement and celebrating their 27th anniversary. Here’s hoping your special day is filled with joy as well as time with family and friends while making great memories along the way.
Congratulations to everyone who is celebrating birthdays this week including: Eric Ciceron, Diana Hadsall, Red Tatro, Keith Bailey, Lois DeMers, Tara Martin Rowell, Chip Rainwater, Kellie Fitzgerald, Lauren Hay-Lavitt, Brenda Carlson and Diana Wilson. Enjoy your special day! You deserve it!!
Remember, my friends: It is what it is, but it will BE what you MAKE IT!!!!!
Be safe in your travels, give your pooches an extra special hug, enjoy the moment and I will see you soon down the road! Until next time…
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