Table Talk • September 30, 2026
As Terrier fanciers from all over the world make their way to Macungie, Pennsylvania for the greatest terrier show in the world, please note that the hard-working volunteers, along with Site Control (more affectionately called the “men in orange”), need everyone to be patient as they prepare for the arrival of those attending the show. The team kindly asks that no one arrives prior to 1 PM today. While John Miller and his team make the job of RV parking look easy, it is not a task for the faint at heart. PLEASE be kind to the men in orange and all club volunteers. A kind thank you, smile and–most importantly–following their directions will be greatly appreciated.
I am excited to bring you Table Talk Live coverage from Terrier Week! Please drop me a Facebook message, or an email at deb.cooper@caninechronicle.com and get on the schedule to share your story with the fancy! The weather forecast is looking amazing, but I am bringing my rain gear just to be safe. There is a 40% chance of rain on Sunday.
In addition to the Terrier National Specialties that will be taking place at Macungie Park during Montgomery County week, it is also National Specialty season for many other breeds. I encourage everyone to attend National Specialties that are near you. There is not a better educational opportunity than to sit ringside with a breed mentor and sort through a large class.
The New York Park system closed the Arboretum Grounds this past weekend due to the impending Nor-Easter. They were concerned about the safety of those using their grounds. Sadly, this required that the Suffolk County Kennel Club and Westbury Kennel Club shows to be cancelled. I hope that fanciers who planned to attend were able to enjoy the unexpected weekend off.
The clubs holding shows in McDonald, Tennessee this past weekend were met with some challenges. First, the grooming area flooded. Volunteers and exhibitors worked hard to move electrical cords and equipment to minimize damage. Then, the club, superintendent and AKC Executive Field Representative had to manage the judging schedule minus Wally Sommerfelt! Fortunately, with some schedule modifications, the show went on with no hiccups! Congratulations to all for your perseverance and dedication.
The AKC Delegate Body has been discussing a proposal that would require exhibitors to pay a deposit when filing a complaint at a dog show. I heard the proposal has passed, and logistics details are currently being discussed. I know there are parent breed clubs who require a deposit from members when filing a complaint against another member. While I have spoken to several fanciers that think this will help avoid frivolous complaints, there are some fanciers who are concerned that this will discourage individuals from filing legitimate charges. What are your feelings? Email me, message me, or comment below. If you are at Macgungie this week, I’d love to hear your opinion.
Just when you thought you heard it all: A complaint was filed against Danelle Brown, an AKC Judge, for laughing while judging! I heard the accusation was that Danelle was laughing because she “beat” another exhibitor when, in actuality, she was just enjoying what she does! Maybe this is why AKC is considering a deposit for someone to file a complaint.
Mike Stone continues to heal from his recent hamstring injury. Longtime friend Shea Skinner has taken the lead of Mike’s Alaskan Malamute, Strike, and he is making Mike–and Alisa Syar–proud. Mike & Alisa and Shea & Tiffany Skinner have been friends for many years. This is yet another example of fanciers helping each other when the need arises.
Wally Sommerfelt was missed this past weekend in Tennessee as he had to cancel his first judging assignment in 42 years. He is healing from surgery performed to repair a high stomach bleed. He will have another procedure in 4-5 weeks to ensure all is healing well. In the meantime, Carol will ensure Wally follows his doctor’s orders. We look forward to having you back in the ring soon, my friend! We wish you a complete, speedy recovery.
Please join me in wishing a happy birthday this week to the following fanciers: Ginny Kincer, Sarah Houston, Andrew Green, Tina Turley-Kocab, Bailee Rogers, Hadley Ramirez George, Lenny Brown, Sarah Krickeberg, Robin Novack, Patti Sosa, Loran Morgan, Omar Gonzalez, Rodney Merry, and Cindy Stansell. Enjoy your special day, my friends!
I’m sharing words of wisdom from a long-time fancier. We should all take note:
Our sport is built on a shared passion, but its future depends of how we treat one another. We can disagree, compete fiercely, and still conduct ourselves with kindness, professionalism, and respect. Let us remember that our words and actions shape not only the experience of those already involved, but also whether newcomers feel welcome enough to stay. We all have a responsibility to uphold the standard we want our sport to represent.
If your travels will be bringing you to Macungie Park this week, I look forward to seeing you! Wherever your travels take you, I wish you the best of luck, and be safe! Until next time…
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