Table Talk · September 1, 2021
One of the things I love most about our sport is the support and compassion true fanciers show for each other. One of the ways many show their support is to hire judges that may be experiencing challenges due to aging or illness. While I am the first to say we need lend a hand whenever possible, it is my humble opinion that hiring individuals who are mentally or physically challenged is not doing them or those in the sport any favors. Judges who are not fit to do their job affect show scheduling, and they can have a detrimental effect on new exhibitors and themselves. It is heartbreaking to watch a judge stand center ring while confused and uncomfortable. Sadly it is difficult to overlook potential judges who we have known over the years to be kind, thoughtful and efficient, but are now incapable of maintaining that same quality of judging. We are not doing the judge or exhibitors any favors by trying to overlook their deficiencies.
Exhibitors have a responsibility to research a judging panel before spending thousands of dollars and countless hours on the road traveling to a show. We cannot forecast judge changes caused by illness, or last-minute travel and personal issues, but having a general idea of the judge’s background, age, and physical and mental condition may help avoid disappointment.
I believe show chairs have the same responsibility to research potential judges before hiring them. Perhaps a Show Chair Group would enable Show Chairs across the country to share a database of information about past experiences with judges. It could include other information about superintendents, stewards, etc. If anyone is interested pursuing such an idea, please reach out to me at deb.cooper@caninechronice.com.
It is with a very heavy heart that I report passing of poodle breeder and popular judge Peggy Hauck (http://caninechronicle.com/breaking-news/remembering-peggy-hauck/). Peggy passed away last weekend after a valiant fight against illness for several months. We will miss Peggy’s smile and cheerful demeanor dearly, as will those who were so close to her. We extend our condolences to her husband, Guy.
Kudos to the James Brothers and Onofrio Dog Shows for donating old ring mats to 4-H! It is great to see them giving back to the sport of purebred dogs. Hopefully, it will encourage more young people to join us in the sport we love so much.
Janice Hayes & her other half, Eric Ciceron, are off to Hawaii for some much deserved R&R. To say I am jealous is putting it lightly! Have fun guys! Safe travels.
I’d love to see those of you who will be in Lexington, Kentucky over Labor Day Weekend. Be sure to stop by the Purina booth and say Hi!
Happy Anniversary to Ray and Kathy Harrington and Kim and Tony Calvacca. I hope you were able to celebrate your love by doing something fun!
We have a lot of friends celebrating birthdays this week. They include Adam Bernardin, Mike Berry, Virginia Murray, Patty Copeland, Peggy Beisel-McIlwaine, Lisa Welch, Kathy Harrington, Tanner Congleton, Beep Lee, Eddie Dziuk, Brianne Major and Susan Farrer-Shepherd. Enjoy your special day my friends!!!
My thought for this week is this: Gratitude turns what we have into enough!!!! Enjoy the moment, be thankful for the journey, and invite someone along for the ride! Be safe out there, my friends and I’ll see you soon! Until next time….
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