Table Talk ·August 11, 2021
Due to my busy travel schedule through July and August, I was unable to go to Canfield this year for the Steel Valley Cluster. I have been attending those shows for more years than I can remember, and even though the weather can be unpredictable–downright unpleasant, in fact–the cluster holds a place near and dear to my heart. I missed being there this year. “Back in the day” Canfield’s RV parking sold out long before entries closed. My breed had independent specialties in addition to the four days of all-breeds. As a result, it was not unusual for the Shar-Pei entry to be 60+. Since there are many more choices of clusters for exhibitors to attend on the Canfield weekend, the entry has continuously dropped from the 4000+ entry that I was accustomed to; and the competition became a bit diluted. The reduced number of shows in 2020 resulted in an entry at Canfield that was over 3000, which is twice what it had been the last few years. The group competition was deep, and I was thrilled to see more RVs and a cluster that felt like it did “back in the day”. This year, there were more alternatives once again and the entry was back down to a bit over 1700. There is something to be said for less shows, in my opinion.
Our friends in Northern California are currently living under a smoke cloud due to the wildfires. The River Fire in Grass Valley caused fellow fancier Betty-Anne Stenmark to be on guard and keep a car packed so they could evacuate at a moment’s notice. Wheaten fancier Pat Mullin was evacuated and spent some time with Betty-Anne and Ben. With the fires 30% contained, they were able to relax a bit, and Pat and the Wheatens were preparing to return home. To all my friends in Northern California and the Pacific Northwest, please stay safe!!!
Charlotte Patterson cancelled her judging assignment in Kenner, Louisiana this past weekend, but don’t worry, Charlotte is fine! She did not feel comfortable traveling to the area and thanks everyone for their concern. We are glad all is well and look forward to seeing her in the center of the ring soon.
Hal Bierman had a short stay in the hospital recently and is back home taking it easy. In true Hal fashion, he gave the staff a run for their money! We are glad you are on the mend, my friend.
The fancy suffered a tremendous loss this past week. Iconic Whippet, Italian Greyhound and Quarter Horse breeder, owner and exhibitor Carol Harris passed away at 98 years young. Carol established Bo-Bett farms where many champions–canine and equine–were bred. Carol was an icon in both the dog and the horse world and will be sorely missed by all that had the pleasure to call her family and friend. I will cherish the opportunity I had to spend time with Carol at her beautiful Bo-Bett farm.
Southern California fanciers lost a familiar voice this past weekend with the passing of Dick Vail. Dick was the announcer at most of the Southern California dog shows for many years and was loved by all that knew him. Dick’s son, Bill, has taken over his duties in recent years, but he still came to visit whenever possible. Rest In Peace, Dick. The Southern California shows will not be the same without you.
Phil and Amy Booth celebrated their wedding anniversary recently. Happy Anniversary to you both: May you have many more years of wedded bliss!
Celebrating birthdays this week are Amiko Allen, Betty Leininger and Kathy Garcia. Please make sure to do something special on your birthday, my friends!
Please remember: Dogs don’t care what color ribbon they get, or if they win one at all! They don’t care about the updated statistics that we anxiously await each month. They care about making us happy and doing what we ask of them, so don’t forget to appreciate them and show them some love!
I look forward to seeing those of you who will be in Doswell, Virginia this week at the Keystone Cluster’s temporary venue. Don’t forget to bring your gambling dollars for the Take The Lead fundraiser to be held Saturday night! Please stop by the Purina booth and see me! Be safe out there, my friends! Until next time…
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