Table Talk – June 19, 2019
June 19, 2019
This road warrior is having a heck of a time getting home from the Blackfoot, Idaho cluster. Delayed/cancelled flights have caused me to stay a few extra hours in Pocatello which has given me the rare opportunity for a bit of quiet time, which, for me, usually results in reflective thought.
The Blackfoot, Idaho cluster once again provided wonderful hospitality for exhibitors with a luau on Friday (which was also Hawaiian day) and a BBQ on Saturday. These folks do a great job of keeping the show moving so the show ends at a reasonable time each day. It is my understanding that Onofrio will not be superintending the cluster after this year. I hope the new superintendent can be as efficient with the scheduling next year!
The highlight of this past weekend for me was the opportunity to visit with Lorraine Boutwell whom I have not had the opportunity to see for quite some time. Lorraine was on the panel for two days, and she drew a full load of entries each day! At 88 years young, she has limited herself to two days of judging, and she only judges indoor shows. Lorraine is as sharp as a tack, still smiling from ear to ear and loving what she does. This lady is a true inspiration to me, as she stays young at heart, healthy, considerate and kind.
The “family sport” also prevailed in Idaho this past week. There were many children within the same age group that had a great time together while enjoying the wonderful weather and playing. Luke and Tammy Seidlitz hosted a pizza party to celebrate their son Asher’s birthday, which all of the kids and their parents attended. It looked like everyone was having a blast! It really made me smile to see this dimension prevail at the show.
A big thank you to Tammie Wilcox who kindly transported the leftover food from the Purina© booth to the Fido Pet Food Bank! Of course, I would be remiss if I did not also thank Nestle Purina© for continuing their generosity by donating any leftover food from the shows to Fido! Unfortunately, Tammi’s RV was not in as much of a hurry as she was to get home, and she had to spend a bit of extra time in Pocatello getting it repaired before she could complete her journey home. Several handlers came to her rescue and helped transport her dogs home safely while she waited to get her RV repaired.
The idea of a conformation practice ring at shows has come up again and it is a concept that I would love to see implemented at more shows. Practice rings would offer another dimension to the conformation show in that it would afford less-experienced canines and humans real-time access to a ring to get more comfortable with showing while having access to experienced exhibitors for training assistance. It also presents an additional opportunity for fund-raising for clubs, or their designated charities. Show giving clubs may want to consider chatting with the AKC about implementing a practice ring if space allows.
I am concerned that some show-giving clubs may not understand the importance of the role of ring stewards, and ensuring that individuals asked to steward are informed of the rules and regulations, and understand their role. Show-giving clubs should be aware that the AKC can provide training if clubs would like to train their members or volunteers to ring steward. With several clubs trying to save money and use local club members and volunteers, this option is great for those clubs that have individuals that they would like to enlist to steward but the only thing holding them back is familiarity with the stewarding process. Offering training for those less familiar can also be another great outreach to get new people involved in your club and your shows!
As temperatures heat up for the summer months, please do not forget the paws of our canine friends! Asphalt and concrete heats up quickly in the sun and our dogs have no protection for their pads. If there is any question at all, put your own foot forward and see how it feels: If it is too hot for you, it is even hotter for your dog! Check those temperature monitors, and load the cooling equipment my friends, your dogs will appreciate it!
I was saddened to hear about the passing of Bob Hetherington, husband of AKC judge Jean Hetherington. Anyone with even a bit of knowledge about Bulldogs knows the contribution Bob and Jean made to the breed for over 50 years with their world famous Hetherbull lines. Jean and Bob were married for 62 years and many in our sport have been fortunate to call this happy couple their friends. Bob will be missed by all who knew him and our sport is poorer with his passing. We extend our sincere condolences to Jean and the rest of the Hetherington family.
Former AKC Rep and AKC Judge Lee Herr had a stroke and was unable to complete his judging assignment this past weekend in New Mexico. Lee is unable to walk right now, but everyone remains optimistic about his recovery. Best wishes for a fast and complete recovery, Lee!
We wish a Happy 50th Anniversary to Pam and Dave Peat. Also celebrating anniversaries this week are: Glenn Lajeski and Gerry Etcherly, and Chip and Lorraine Rainwater. May you all enjoy many more years together of health and happiness.
Celebrating birthdays this week are: James Frederiksen, Mark Tichenor, Susan Bradshaw, Patty Haines, Linda Robey, Vicki Seiler-Cushman, Erica Vogt and Perry Payson.
For those of you about to begin the summer “death march” in Oklahoma/Texas, please try to pace yourselves and be kind to your fellow competitors! I look forward to seeing everyone in Houston! Until next time…
Short URL: https://caninechronicle.com/?p=165530
Posted by Comments are closed
