Table Talk • June 17, 2026
What does a long-time dog person do on a weekend off? Drive a couple hours to a dog show, of course! I took a drive to the Lake County Fairgrounds in Grayslake, IL to visit my friends at the Wheaton Kennel Club.
With the sudden loss of Lynn Meyer, I expected the day to be emotional–and indeed, it was. Grayslake was one of the shows that Lynn served as AKC Executive Field Representative for the past several years, and to say she was missed would be an understatement.
Lynn’s family has requested that, in lieu of flowers, friends consider making a donation to one of the following charities, whose important work and missions were close to Lynn’s heart:
Take The Lead
The Tibetan Terrier Health & Welfare Foundation
https://tibetanterriersfoundation.org/
Feed Your Joy
We often learn of interesting hobbies and interests outside of our sport that fanciers are passionate about. Recently, People Magazine did an interview with our own Karen LeFrak! Who knew that in addition to Poodle fame, Karen is also a very talented, successful music composer! With 21 albums, 60 million streams and a major orchestral commission tied to America’s 250th Anniversary, Karen proves that it is never too late to create! She embarked on her musical career in her seventies and recently turned 79. You can read more about Karen’s successful music career at: https://people.com/how-karen-lefrak-launched-professional-music-career-in-her-70s-exclusive-11996455
I encourage all Junior Showmanship participants and parents of Juniors to read this month’s article by William Given. This piece gives a great perspective on the focus Juniors should maintain while competing! The article focuses on having fun while competing. Frankly, I think all competitors will have a great takeaway from these words of wisdom. https://caninechronicle.com/current-articles/change-your-focus-to-win-more-in-the-juniors-ring/
Several years back, a few clubs came up with a great idea to do arm band raffles at shows in order to minimize arm bands being left lying around. The most common raffle was for gas cards (who doesn’t need help with filling the tank?) At last weekend’s Eagle Rock Kennel Club show in Blackfoot, Idaho, the club had a flat ribbon recycle station set up for exhibitors to deposit their unwanted flat ribbons! What a great idea to reuse or repurpose ribbons!
The temps in many areas of the country were sweltering this past weekend. The shows at Bates Nut Farm in Southern California were subjected to above-average temperatures. Unfortunately, Charlie Olvis and Liz Muthard had a difficult time in the heat; but in true Charlie and Liz fashion, they did not succumb to the heat and kept judging! The club volunteers and AKC Representative did a great job of keeping an eye on them while trying to keep Charlie out of the sun. They continued to make sure the pair stayed hydrated and as cool as possible. Sometimes it takes a village and we know that fanciers rise to the occasion whenever necessary!
The American Kennel Club has announced that nominations for the President’s Sportsmanship Award are now open and will be accepted through Monday, August 17, 2026.
In its second year, the award honors an individual who has demonstrated exceptional commitment to the principles outlined in the AKC Code of Sportsmanship and Civility. The award is designed to recognize those whose conduct consistently reflects integrity, mentorship, and respect within the dog sports community. For more information: https://caninechronicle.com/?p=361176
I am saddened to report that Bill Kohler passed away. Bill was a lifetime member of the Sahuaro State Kennel Club, and long-time, beloved show photographer. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time.
Happy Anniversary to Jann Butler and Will Bratcher! Best wishes for many more grand adventures filled will happiness.
Fanciers celebrating birthdays this week include: Ryan Horvath, Susan Bradshaw MacLyman, Erin Kerfoot, Ray Stevens, Patty Haines, Vicki Seiler-Cushman, Addison Lancaster, and Erica Vogt. May this trip around the sun be all that you hope for and then some!
Always remember, my friends:
Some days are better,
Some days are worse,
Look for the blessing
Instead of the curse
Be positive
Stay Strong
Get enough rest
You cannot do it all,
But you CAN do your BEST!
Wherever your travels take you, please be safe. Take time to tell those you care about how you feel. Remember, my friends, tomorrow is never promised. Live today to its fullest! Until next time…
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