Table Talk • January 12, 2026
I don’t know about you, but it is mid-January and I am already fatigued. The good news is if I am tired there must be a lot going on within the sport of purebred dogs that occupies my waking hours! The first quarter of the year includes some of my favorite shows, and I am lucky enough to get paid to attend them. I cherish the opportunities I get to see my West Coast friends, and I continue to be overwhelmed with the support that I receive for Table Talk. I couldn’t do it without you.
This past week took me to the Pacific Northwest. The Rose City Classic once again impressed. With four days of all-breed shows, many specialties, and a group show, there was a lot going on during this 4-day cluster. Pat Trotter celebrated her 90th birthday at this cluster. As usual, she was doing what she loves, and she was gifted with so many beautiful dogs to judge!
As if the Rose City Cluster was not already special enough, 4 years ago they launched the Supreme Specialty Challenge. This special event allows all Specialty winners the opportunity to compete for ‘Best of the Best’. The identity of the judge is kept secret and announced just prior to judging. This year’s judge was AKC President and CEO Gina DiNardo.
There was a competing cluster in Southern California this year. The Great Western Terrier Show and Beverly Hills Kennel Club held their show at a new venue in Ventura, California. So, we had two Terrier Group Shows on the West Coast the same weekend! Imagine what the entry could have been if the shows were not held the same weekend.
While I was enjoying the Pacific Northwest, my friends in Brooksville were battling some less than pleasant weather! Sadly, two of the shows were cancelled due to high winds and storms. While exhibitors were able to hit the road earlier than planned on Sunday, some were disappointed that the show wasn’t delayed rather than being cancelled. Many said the weather did improve by early afternoon, but others claim the cancellation of the Sunday show was a prudent decision by the club.
Kim and Angela Booth are wrapping up yet another phenomenal African adventure. I am envious! Anyone interested in going to Africa should reach out to Angela!
There has been a great deal of discussion recently about whether or not Junior Showmanship classes should be held on school days. What are your thoughts? Please email me at deb.cooper@caninechronicle.com. I hope to include this topic in our Westminster coverage, so be sure to send your thoughts about this topic to me.
The Westminster Kennel Club and the Museum of the Dog have partnered to celebrate the past, present and future of our Juniors! There will be a reception for competing Juniors, and past Westminster Junior Showmanship winners, at the Museum of the Dog on Sunday afternoon, February 1st from 1-4! I look forward to covering this amazing celebration. Please feel free to contact me for more information.
Sincere condolences to Kyle Robinson whose sister passed away recently. We are thinking about you at this most difficult time.
John Miller and Tristen Lawrence showed everyone how it is done! There was a grand celebration of John and Tristen’s nuptials in Turks & Caicos this past week. We wish you to lovebirds decades of happiness together.
Happy Anniversary to Wally and Carol Sommerfelt! Best wishes for many more years of happiness and anniversary celebrations together.
Fanciers celebrating birthdays this week include Lisa Moller, Daryl Martin, Susan Giles, Dick Schaefer and Jessica Plourde. Enjoy your special day and be sure to take some time to celebrate!
I am sharing words of wisdom from Annie Clark. They were spoken when she was President of the Poodle Club of America. I believe this is wise advice, regardless of the breed!!
There is only one thought I have for our Poodle Club of America – and it is one that works not only for us, but in all walks of life as well –
Progress is made by people of like interests working TOGETHER towards a common goal-
The Poodle, its correct conformation, intelligence and temperament and health are our interests, and we will do anything to achieve these goals and to protect our breed.
Be safe out there, my friends! Weather can change in an instant, and you can find yourself stuck on the highway. Follow your instincts and be careful. I look forward to seeing you down the road. Until next time…
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