Table Talk · September 24, 2021
Table Talk · September 24, 2021
The Equine Community, specifically those involved in racing, are saddened to hear the news about the closing of the Arlington Downs Racetrack. This past weekend was the last event at the racetrack as the venue has been sold to the Chicago Bears. Those dog fanciers who have shown in the Midwest may also remember that the racetrack also served as home to a few dog show clusters for a short time. I have fond memories of Arlington as a dog show exhibitor. Through all the years that I have shown dogs, the show at Arlington was the one and only time that my parents came to watch me. I remember the day like it was yesterday. I was so nervous. I wanted my mom and dad to be proud of me, even though I knew that they had no idea what was going on! Lucky for me, I was showing a lovely dog–my greyhound Molly–and we scored a lovely blue ribbon. I came out of the ring and Mom and Dad had their chairs packed up and they were on their way. I told them that we were not finished yet as we were going back in the ring in about an hour to compete for Best In Show! My parents looked at me and said, “you guys will always be our best girls,” and off they went!
In just a week many of us will be at Colonial Park in Somerset, New Jersey for Morris and Essex Kennel Club! With an entry of 4,015, I have great anticipation for a fantastic day of deep competition. Some of you will have a very early start to your day as judging will begin at 7:30 AM!!!! Look on the bright side, my friends! Complimentary continental breakfast will be served beginning at 6:00 AM, hosted by Take The Lead! Please be sure to view the raffle items that will be offered. In addition, in keeping with tradition, judging will cease between the hours of noon and 1:00 PM and complimentary boxed lunches will be served for exhibitors! Morris and Essex asks exhibitors to please wear masks in those rings where the judge is masked. Please remember to bring your mask so you are not caught unprepared.
The remainder of the week on the East Coast will also be a great time for fanciers. Hatboro Dog Club will hold their shows on Thursday and Friday at Macungie Memorial Park. The show reached their limit of 2200. This year, Hatboro and Montgomery County Kennel Club will share the same show grounds. While many fanciers will depart after judging on Friday for Ludwig’s Corner and Devon Dog Club, they will return to Macungie on Sunday for the greatest terrier show on earth, Montgomery County Kennel Club! This year, Montgomery County has an entry of 1317, with Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers scoring the highest entry at 108. The customary memorial service honoring those departed terrier fanciers will begin at 7:00 AM at the band shell. For more information, please contact Lydia Hutchinson. Following Best In Show, there will be a celebration of life for Bobby Paust, who recently passed away.
Many of you who are planning to attend all or part of the prestigious week on the East Coast have already reached out to me, and I thank you! If you have not reached out yet, and you plan on attending and have a special moment or memory to share, please be sure to reach out to me at deb.cooper@caninechronicle.com.
Texas fancier Greg Reyna has been suffering from some serious health challenges recently. In addition to being a long-time dog fancier, Greg is also a phenomenal artist. Some of Greg’s work is available on Facebook on the Art of Greg Reyna Facebook page. Please take a look at it! All proceeds go to helping Greg get through the health challenges he faces.
As a result of great determination, the Poodle Club of America will be holding their National Specialty the last week of October at the Purina Event Center. Nestlé Purina is focused on following all local and state health and safety guidelines and has re-established many social distancing guidelines and capacity restrictions. In an effort to allow as many individuals as possible to enjoy the festivities, the Poodle Club of America has implemented a COVID-19 vaccination requirement. Individuals that do not have valid proof of vaccination will not be allowed on the premises for the show. This vaccination requirement has been instituted to give poodle fanciers the opportunity to enjoy the Poodle National with minimal restrictions. This vaccination requirement is not being required for all events at Purina Farms. Fanciers should remember that their safety is of the utmost importance and this requirement was a result of much collaboration and discussion with Purina.
It is with great sadness that I report that Whippet fancier Kathy Davenport has passed away. Kathy was an icon in her breed and a great friend and mentor to all that knew her. Heartfelt sympathies to Debbie, Dawn and Doug. Rest well, my friend.
Happy anniversary to Mickey Feigelson and Chuck Leachman and Ashley and Brendan Ryan! May you guys enjoy your special day!
Celebrating birthdays this week are: Michael Rawlings, Bruce Schultz, Julie Mueller, Andrew Green, Roberta Lombardi, Tina Turley-Kocab, Nick Phillips, Lenny Brown, Bailee Rogers, Traci Clark, Sarah Krickeberg and Robin Novack. Ken McDermott will be celebrating his 80th birthday the day before Morris and Essex. If you see him at the show, be sure to wish him a very happy birthday!!!!
Safe travels to all! Remember! YOU are taking the BEST dog home!!!! I look forward to seeing you all soon! Until next time…
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