Wednesday, October 14, 2015

Amateur Maturity

My computer is screwing with me. It stops typing every few minutes and won't let me send anything now. So, I am tricking it. Don't tell it. I took a post from Tedi and hit "reply" then deleted it all and addressed it to the blog.
 
Best Amateur was First  SHAKER'S UNCLE KRACKER, Second was JEWEL'S BARON VON DREXEL WOLF CREEK.
 
Now the Amateur Maturity Bitches are in there, only three.
 
I do think it is time to get rid of the Amateur classes. the kids can go show in the Junior Handling and the older folks can go in and compete with the old farts.  It is quiet now. I think they are doing 6-9 puppy dogs yet today, so that should be interesting. 
 
The winner are, First is NEO'S SCARLETT OF WOLF CREEK, Second is JDM'S SHADOW'S KATINA OF TANGLEWOOD, Third is  JAYDEE'S WHEREVER YOU GO I WILL GO, RN. 
 
If I understand what Tony told me, we have to do a Best Amateur Maturity and Best Opposite.  In they come and It is a close call. Bob gives it to the Dog.
 
I don;t know what more I can send, but I will do my best.
 
Posted by at

Best of Maturity

They are doing a critique of each winner.  Now the Maturity winners are in for Best and Best Opposite.  Art takes Tommy and Lenny has the bitch.  It's the Bitch and the Male is Best Opposite.
 
Posted by at

Maturity Bitches

The bitches are in there. Helen Gleason came by to say hello, and she looks fantastic. Libby Cameron came by to wave at me  Jimmie is here, dressed up and came up to talk to me. Ed Barritt is here now, and he keeps looking younger. I am watching him and Jimmie talk,and if I can age like. them I will be pleased.
 
Bob in the ring is looking stronger and stronger. I suspect  he is having a good time. Georgie can by now,and  is talking to the crowd. Bob is doing the individuals.  I just realized, California is having a great National.  Look it up.  I am having a hell of a time sending this stuff. I keep getting cut off line. I may have to find a 12 year old and have them show me how to tether my I-phone to the computer.  Tony has left, he is tying to work with his wife in other venues.
 
I just noticed an Asgard dog is in the class, I mean a bitch, and didn't know.  Bob pulls out four from this class.  Now the last group. The bitch we bred is by Patriot to Magic Marker. She can move and is pretty. but, not the standard type.  He has seven to work with. Our bitch is with Nancy McDonald, her name is Laslar's  Xrated of Asgard v Kodiak Ridge.  All the puppies  were born on Tedi's birthday, so they all have "ted" in their names.  Angel, as they call her, looks young. Her litter mate, Teddy Rosevelt, (Bully) hasn't matured yet either. If he does, he will be something special.  We are going to hold him back.  Between Magic Marker and Patriot, he can move.  Angle can move as well, I do wonder where she will finish out when she matures.
 
Liana New is one of the funniest people I have ever known!!  :)
 
Tony isn't so bad either!! 
 
I didn't type the two lines above. Liana New came by while I was gone.
 
Bob has his eight left.  Angle is still in there, and he pulls Lennie, Olivia, Channing, Alex, Mike and YES, Angle with Nancy.  Down and back for each of them. Lots of audience involvement.  Two Thirty and people are still cheering for their favorite. Bob looks even stronger now.  There goes Alex.  Channing Sheets is next.
Angle is at the end, and Tedi is helping to double. She came to our house for a while to train, and she is a good looking bitch. YES, Bob moves her up one into Best of Dump. There go the first three with Lennie in front.   Now the next three.  Bob has his arms crossed and says to take them all. I think that might be it.  and, that is it.  First is TAZZMAN'S EXTRA SPECIAL, Second is BILLYJO'S LOOK AT ME STONEWALL, Third is CH WINDOVER'S DAISY OF ABIJAH, AND Fourth is CH. SHE-ROCK'S GIRL ON FIRE VONHORNBERGER.  On to Best and Best Opposite.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Posted by at

Maturity dogs

Liana New has the music going. I was just talking to Chuck Ferrel and I was pleased to see how great his bitch looked. He told me she is fifth generation champion.  People are milling about, and I see Dorthyn Lynn is working the booth.  I saw Diane Brown. I swear each year she gets better looking. 
 
Martha Simonte is here now,and looking happy. She sure has some great dogs.  Dorothy Lynn came by, and in go the Maturity dogs.  It is close to real time with the Specials.  My computer keeps going off line, but I will worry about it later. I think it is a connection.  Great looking group of dogs.
 
Tedi came by.  There are 13 in there, and I expect some of them are in Specials too.  I do love Exxon. I know he is in Specials.  They take a pass and I also like Deal Me In.  Lots of good dogs. Phillip has a nice dog, with a good sholder. Now it is Lennie with Hurricane.  Next us, Georgie.Kris-s-U-Two.  Interesting name. Vickie is E, there is a dog that can move.  Now Scottie.  Olivia with Argo. Jeff with Power Trip, a black.  But, a nice one, and Alex with Richie Rich, a Phoenix son.  Now Bill Basu with Deal Me In owned by Carolyn Martello and Linda Cury, two of my favorite people.  I liked the sire a lot, Ya Gotta Know When To Hold Em.  Now Mikie with Exxon. She takes him again, the only one, but slow and on a loose lead. Exxon is a loose lead dog.  He does look fantastic. He should go Select. Art takes Top Hat's Gentleman's Quarterly, Tommy.  He was Kierk's competition when he was being campaigned.  A great dog, and super owner.
 
And around they go in groups of four.  Kathy Potter just came by and is sitting now with Bobbie Kindy.  Vickie wants the double handling to stop, and no double handling on the termperament test.  She told all the handlers.  One at a time. I see Dick Jennings is here. He asked me to have the time off.  Of course, it is good to have him here.  Although I have no idea who is in the office with us both gone.
 
Kent is yelling at his double handler, but he seems to know what he is talking about, so he is explaining it to Cathy Potter.  Fred Migliore had left for a while, but is back.  I see Terry Rock saying hello.  Man, these are some great dogs.  However, you should not give me free time. I am thinking of many things I should never say.  But, I say them anyway.  I am typing this off line, since my computer shut me off. I have no idea if it will go out. Bill Basu is up with Deal Me In.  The view is great here, the lighting is perfect and although a bit cold for me, (as is everything including 106 in California), it is a perfect location. Now, we have another year to fix the sound.  I, of course, am much better than Tony. Just don't ask anyone except me.
 
Now EXXON.  I don't care what the dog does, he is first to me. I have had chances to be around him, and he always remembers me.  Vickie gives Mike instructions.  FANTASTIC!  I know Mike isn't going to show him in Specials, Jeff is. It will be interesting.  Phillip Moore is staring at me. I have, for years, called him Morris. I won't do it wrong this week.
 
This would be a hard class ot judge.  Some good dogs, and a few great ones.  I also like what Olivia has Argo.  Vickie pulls out seven dogs, and YES Exxon is in there. So is Art and Bill Basu, She askes them to come out and stand loose.  First is Phillip, now Lennie, and she doesn't stack them just lets them stand, the Junior from Canada, and the crowd does like the dog,and now Olivia, another crown pleaser, Bill Basu, some noise, Mickie, he is a crowd favorite, and Tommy with Art.  And she tells them to stand back while she gives the losers another run so they at least have some exercise, all five of them. And, out they go, Georgie, Kent, Lennie, Jeff and Alex. Now there are seven, and down and back.
 
I know she hasn't placed them, but she sure did get the top ones out there. I just heard Vickie was in  a car accident a few days ago and was told to stay home and rest. Bob is recovering from esophagus surgery.  And yet, they both look great.There goes Exxon.  He sure is a real dog.  Although I do get tired of hearing Celeste squeek.  Tommy is another great one, and has been for a number of years. He is starting to mature now. One at a time.  Each dog has its fans. Lennie's dog gets no respect.  The Canadian dog,and that could be the winner. It is a super mover, and tons of type.  Name of the Game. There goes Olivia, and some do like him.  Bill Basue and a lot of noise, and Bill give a full loose lead.  Now Exxon.  If it were up to the crowd, he would win. I watched Vickie's face and couldn't tell.  SHOW TIME!
 
She walks to the front and touches each dog, and down It makes me laugh, she looks at Exxon and Tommie and takes them to the front, Exxon leading., I have to stop typing and watch.  She wants to see Tommy and exxon.  The rest stand back. 
 
That's it, First is CH SUBOJA'S AND TOP HAT'S GENTLEMAN'S QUARTERLY, Second is GCH CHER;A'S EXXON OF LEALYNN, Third was KYSARAH'S POT OF GOLD, and Fourth was HARMONIA'S NAME OF THE GAME.  I expect Exxon will go Select, but second Maturity dog for a dog not yet three is a big win.
 
On to Maturity bitches.
 
Posted by at

Amateur Futurity

It is the Amateur Futurity Bitches. There were no males. I wonder why that is.  Dorothy Lynn is here talking to Karen Taylor, and I can't tell you who in the ring, because I don't know them.  There were only two males entered and six bitches, so only one bitch not here.  Ben Bigornia is here now,and we can talk a bit.
 
Still working the amateur bitches. We have winners.  First is TERRA NORTE'S NIGHT TIME IN NEVADA, Second is JDM'S LON'E SURVIVOR OF TANGLEWOOD, Third is WINBORNE'S ESCAPADE OF 'OH MY' and Forth is LE'LIS VEILED IN STARDUST. 
 
Posted by at

Furturity Bitches

For the break I walked around and saw Martha Rinke, and Leslie. Leslie looks great, and I just saw her when I judged.  There is a lull now, and lots of milling around.  Sam Colvin is talking to Joyce Ebert and Dannie Dwyer, and I said hello to Norma Hansburg. 
 
Last night at 9:30 there was a knock on the door. It was Mr. Exxon, (Pat Draper) with a bag of White Castle hamburgers.  The only thing more disgusting than White Castle hamburgers is cold White Castle Hamburgers.  I ate four of them, and gave the rest to Dave Rinke this morning. Leana New came by to talk about the music. But only Tony knows and he want to do something having to do with a barn. I sure as hell miss Bob (the voice of the national).  They placed the Futurity males so they were, First BOMAR ARGON DE RAHO BACKACHERS, Second SHATTEN-SUNDANCE'S CALIFORNIA CHROME V LACOMTESSE, Third BREAL-JOGRA'S ROUGH RIDER, Fourth, CARETTI'S BLUES MAN.  I have never seen them do that before, but years ago Joe Bahari did that to me with Ben and gave me a third. As I recall R-Man was first.
 
In come the bitches.
 
First is Olivia, then Trish, Mike, Kent Lindsey, and Sergeo, Scott, Elizabeth, Cindy, Zac, and Art. Hell, they all change positions. There are a bunch of bitches in there and some male handlers too.  Also some female dogs.  Bob is out there and sends part of the group back out. I think it is temporary, and he has five.  In front is Olivia so I got that right.  Gloria Birch is here now and the first five take a pass.  I don't know them, but I like Mike's bitch Party Like a Rock Star. A very impressive sable.  Moda
 
Bob is looking at Olivia, with Moda Chablis, beautiful type.  And, good side gate.
Now Trish with Paper Roses.   Gloria just brought me candy and cookies. I don't know what she wants, but I appreciate it.  Peggy Kurtz just came by and is the ring steward.  There is Cappy,and she looks great this year.  Kent is up with Liberty Belle.  Cappy is talking to Bill Peterson.
 
Now Lindsay with Tahoe.  I always liked her sire, Tumeric.  Now Bob looks at his first five and tells them "slow and easy"".  And one at a time, with Olivia first.  Next up is Trish.  Now Mike.  He has the nice sable. Kent witih a bi-color.  Now Lindsey.  I do like that bitch.  Bob looks strong and you would never know he was sick.  He pulls Olivia, then Tish and Lindsay, and puts them in  front. off goes the six. Bob sends them out and in comes the next six.  Carmen came by and sit with me.   We have been  chatting, so I didn't do anything for you, so blame Carmen.
 
Carmen and I have solved the problems of the world, so I am back.  Bob is still judging and is done with the three groups, and is back on group one, and takes the first three, and excuses two bitches.  Ovefr there is Trish Olivia and Lindsay.  Now the second group of five and off they go.  Paul Root is yelling at us. Bob picks three and they are Lennie, Scottie and Kelley from that group.  Now the last four.and he keeps two, Art and Zac. Now there eight.  He brings out the eight, and lines them in the center of the ring. What a fantastic line-up.  Bob looks them over. I would love to have any one of them. I do have a favorite, but Bob pulls Lennie with Disorderly Conduct, then Paper Roses, Tahoe II, and he looks over the other five.  One last trip. Bob keeps Moda Chablis, and You're on Cadid Camera.  And, they take a lap, one at a time.
 
Five left and Bob goes behind them and takes them down and back.  First Lennie and they stand while he studies them, now Trish, Next is Lindsay, Scottie, Olivia, and Art. They line up and Bob studies them.  I see Nancy Hubble and her son. He takes great pictures. Bob wants them around.  And, off they go.  Scottie in front.  And, that's how it goes. First is CARETTI'S DISORDERLY CONDUCT, Second is FARMIL'S PAPER ROSES, Third is KUBISTRAUM'S TAHOE II, Fourth is CARETTI'S SLOW GIN.  The second place bitch was my Winner's Bitch from Saturday. So, I wasn't as crazy as everyone said I was.  I see Celeste (Exxon) Draper now watching. She is the White Castle Queen.  I suspect  she is who forced Pat to go there last night. I would go there tonight, but it is the BIG CHILI COOK-OFF.  Shirley  Briggs O'Brian is here, so we can talk for a bit. 
 
Bob is doing Best and Best Opposite Futurity.  I would not want to try to do this, but I do like the dog, but I like the futurity Bitch too. Bill Basu must like those dark dogs.  His is a bi and Bob puts him in front of the bitch. And they go off together, and Bob give it to the  Bitch.
 
On to the amateur Futurity. No dogs picks up, so it will be the bitches.
Posted by at

Futurity Dogs

There are so many that are not here. Some that come to mind are Bob, (The Voice of The National) Dresher, Twyla Miner, Tom and Vivian, (who belong here), Pat and Colin from Texas, and of course all those who aren't with us any more. Liz is here in my heart, and I am going to hate to try to remember more. 
 
Tom Mesdag is in the ring, and I see Joey working the crowd. It is quiet waiting for the dogs to go into the ring. I see Frank Martello, and I got to talk to him for a minute yesterday. There is Surgio, and into the ring they go.
 
In now are the Futurity Dogs.  First is Mike, then Zoac, George, Kerry, Lennie, Olivia, Scottie, Kent, then Jeff, Bill Basu, Nancy. I find it interesting that I know every handler, and the judge. I see Linda Bankhead with her mom Joan Fox. If pushed, I could not tell you which one if more beautiful.
Honor Guard. I like that dog, he is a Captain America son. Lots of those here. They pulled his brother Wisconsin Badger, so they wouldn't have to go against each other.  Now a good lookiing sable, Excalibur V Chablis-Stylic.  Midas Touch, a dog I have admired for a long time, and the crowd likes him too. Nancy has Galileo, and he is another good one,
 
There goes the first three, and Vickie looks them over,  Now Kelly, Lennie and Olivia.  I do like what Lennine has, Code Red. and Scottie, Kent and Jeff, and now Bill basu, Art, Al, and Nancy.  Art has my vote, but Nancy has a real star, it is Galileo. 
 
Vickie moves the class to the side and she is giving directions as to what she wants, and Mike is first, sets the dog up, after a loose lead exam, and now the individuals. The boring part of the show. I went and talked to Tedi, something we seldom do at the National.  Loren came by to give directions to Lennie.  She looks great as she always does.  It is surprising how many of the seats are filled this early in the show.  It is going to be a big crowd. Almost all of the seats are filled and it is only Wednesday.  Leana New came by and she prepared the music for the classes.  No one told Tony or me, so we had to figure out  how to work the system .  My computer is giving me fits. It just stops typing now and then and I have to keep watching the screen. It cuts into my show time. 
 
I see Dan Dwier is here now watching and I wonder where everyone will sit for the BIG SHOW.  There are bleachers on the other side, but even they are almost full.  I do like this venue, but the sound system is a problem.
 
I think Honor Guard who is up now, with Kent is going to be tough to beat. He is a real stallion type of dog. His sire, Stevie is a full brother to our bitch Kisses. If we breed her right, we should be able to get one like him, and yes, the crowd does like him. What's not to like?  Ken Cunningham just walked by.  So many people and so many names I can't remember.
 
Years ago I suggested name tags, and even offered to pay for them.  I need to keep pushing. If I can remember to do it.  Zoe came by to say the wanted $4.00 for a cup of coffee.  Cindy Tellefson walked by and ignored me.  Bobby Kindy came by and said hello to Tedi.  Bobby often ignores me. Joyce Eberts is here enjoying the show.  It sure is great to talk to Tony again.  I never get to talk to Daphne.  Up next is Nancy.
 
I see Carolyn Martello is here so life is good. There goes Cindy Bartely. 
 
Here we go.  She is pulling and has seven over there, and is going over the dump pile agains.  Over there is Zac, Georgie, Lenny, Scottie, Bill and Al.  Now she looks at them, they are the keepers so far. She walks over and out comes Zac and Vickie wants them to stand loose, and she looks at them. This is a good looking group of dogs, and Scottie is out there and she walks up to him, and now Bill, and they try topo9se the dog, and las it Al Martin with Back To The Future.  Now she takes them down and Back. I do like Back to the Future.  It may be unfair, since I like the owners so much.  She is looking at only a few of them, but the crowd is up for this. I have never seen so much crowd support at the Futurity. 
 
I see Richard Sotille double handling, and Lindsey came by looking great.  She and Zac are easily two of our top handlers, and super stars of the West Coast.  She puts them all back and sends the first three around at a walk. If there is this much excitement the first day, this is going to be one hell of a National. Now the next three.  She has the first six out there.  She looking at the first group, and takes them one at a time, She looks them over and is taking them one at a time. Slow down Zac, the crowd loves you.  There goes Bill Basue with De Raho on a loose lead and slow.  Now those first three and she looks them over Zac with California Chrome, the crowd favorite so far. And she tells them to take a pass, Zac is telling his double handler to back off, and there goes Chronm with Rough Rider and De Raho. She looks at the three again.  This is going to be a long day.
 
Zac up front and now the ring steward is talking to Vickie.   She puts De Raho in front and  Gives It To Bomar Argon D Raho Backachers Winner's Futurity Dog.
 
Posted by at

In the beginning

Here we go. Jen Proud is here with me, and the parade of the clubs is going on.  Lots of people here now, and he clubs in the ring. More than before,and everyone with banners, and matching shirts. It is good to see who is from where, and alarge group.  Indiana has no banner, but with green shirts, lookiing great. St. Louis with only three people and no banner, everyone is working. We got a table, thank you, and chairs.
 
I got to talk to Bob Kish and we compared notes. He is about three years behind me in recovery, but looks great. We both lost 50 pounds, but can live with that.  The sound system is no better, but Tony and I will do what we can.
 
They announced who won the awards, I am sure it will be bragged by their people.  Joyce Eberts came by and the filming is done.  I see Joan Kerner is here,and the whole gang including Spring sitting down in the assigned seats.
 
Chuck Ferrell came by and talked about his Juniior, and his bitch is in the Futurity fnal. Tedi got here, I told her 8:00 and I guess she is on time, they haven't started yet.  Bob and Carole Moore came by and I see she is talking to Joyce Eberts.  Mike Sherman is all dressed and I see the place if filling up. 
 
Bob Kish is here to judge the Futurity Males, so he is in the ring and looking strong.  I didn't look that good at that point of my recovery. Oh hell. I never looked that good even before my surgery.  Don Knight came by, and there is never enough time to talk to everyone. I did talk to Frank,and we agreed, he will be glad to end the position as President.  Tony has the hand held microphone, and we can't understand what he is saying. I think mine is the same, but I am not announcing yet.  Sam Colvin is here and hugging everyone. 
 
MaryEllen Kish looks great in pink. We are in the middle on risers, so it is a great view. Now Bob is going into the center of the ring.  Also  Vicky Roye.  She in purple and Bob black. 
 
The excitement is growing and now we begin.
 
Posted by at

Tragedy averted

I am at the arena at 7:00 am. The only person in the place is Lennie and the people setting up the cameras. There are two of them and they seem to know what they are doing. The ring look great and longer than last year, there is no performance on the end.
 
They are not set up for the announcer's table yet, so there is nothing for me to do.
 
Last night at 9:30, Mr. Exxon, (Pat Draper), appeared at our door with a bag of White Castle hamburgers. Now, that made me laugh. It seems that Celeste, who is one of the most health concious people I know, loves the White Castle burgers.   Go figure.
 
It is cold out, about 50, but comfortable inside here. It is going to be interesting to do this without Bob (The Voice of The National).  Karen Taylor came by, and Lennie and I were talking about his rig, evidently he has a full house he travels with.  He always has been a good friend, and like so many people, I wish I could see them more than one time a year.
 
I hate that life gets in the way of dog shows.
 
No one seems to be thinking of setting up a speaker's table, so maybe I will be doing this from my lap top.  That works for me, but who knows about a connection. I know I can tether from my phone, but I need to find a 12 year old to show me how to do it. Speaking of kids, it is strange not to have Summer here. But, she is acting in television shows now. Both her and her brother are starting to get parts.  I felt I had done too much for Summer, so I decided to buy something for her brother Adam. So, Tedi and I took a full set of drums to his house.  We left as soon as he set them up. His parents haven't talked to me since.
 
I see a few people starting to wander in, mostly the vendors.  Now I have to figure out what to do to get someone to set up our table. I see Art Sinclair is here. I heard there was a problem in that they shut down San Francisco airport, but he must have gotten out. More from the show.
 
Posted by at

The preshow

Gorgeous weather
Posted by at

Tuesday, October 13, 2015

Great tragedy at the National

I don't want to alarm you, but a terrible thing has happened.
The White Castle next to the host hotel has been torn down.  This is worse than when they tore the jail house down.
 
The big show before the show was fun.  I sat with Big Dave Rinke, Martha, Jeff Mobeus and Pan Stosser.  I got to see two great Stevie (Canadian GV Captain America), (brother to out Champion Kisses Sweeter Than Wine),  sons.  It is all about me.   One of them, Fred, is my new best friend forever.
 
We got to see lots of old friends, and I won't try to name them all, but some were Jane Kerner, Paula, (of course), Jimmy who had the Best of Breed dog.  There were so many others, Dawn even came by, and of course Paul Johnson, and I got to talk to MaryEllen Kish for a minute and Bob is recovering from the same operation that I had. He sounds like he is doing well, and I can imagine what he is going through.
 
We went to dinner with a group of 13, and saw Nancy McDonald at the restaurant, and also Sergio. Too many people and never enough time. I did spend a few minutes with the Drapers, and am anxious to see Exxon tomorrow. He is one of my favorites of all times.  I like the owners too.
 
It was cold this morning, but warmed up. Great weather for a dog show.  Now to get some rest and try to keep up tomorrow. Debbie Stern said she would come by the announcer's table, and I may try to enlist her to help me do Specials. Everyone  have asked before refuses to talk to me. I keep asking what is going on, as I type.  Ask Flower Boy, he didn't talk to me for a year.
 
Posted by at

Monday, October 12, 2015

What time is it?

I have talked to a number of dog people this weekend, and they say people enjoy this

Blog.  I don't understand it, but I was told it makes them feel like they are at the National. So, here is what it is like.  Since Friday I have spent 19 hours either in the air, or at airports.  I am in St. Louis, waiting for Tedi to get here.  Her flight this morning was canceled and she is being routed through Dallas, so she should be here in three hours.

To be fair, I did take a side trip for a day in Grand Rapids to see my aunt. Well, to be honest, I did eat three Yesterdogs for dinner. I did also get a Vienna Beef hot dog in Chicago, and just found a place in this airport that has Vienna Beef hot dogs, so I had another for lunch.

If I was going to fly for 19 hours I could have gone to Italy and looked for Flower Boy. All in all, I would rather be in front of a jury trying to argue that when my client took the 15 watches from the jewelry store, he just wanted to try them out to decide which one he wanted to buy and would be returning the rest, had he not been arrested.

I left Los Angeles on one time zone, got to Newark and was in another time zone. Then I flew to Chicago, a different time zone. From there I went to Grand Rapids, which is a different time zone, then to Minn. that has a different time zone, and on to St. Louis with another time  zone. I need to get some more watches from my client.

I suppose when I get to the arena and see all the dogs, I will feel more like a dog show, but for now, I have had all I need of airports. I just hope they have those great hot dogs they had last year.  I can see a theme developing here. 

It is going to be strange at the announcer's table without Bob (The Voice of The National) Dresher.  But, I will do all I can to call the classes, tell people to clean up after themselves at the motels, and help lost children find their mothers.

The Drapers should be in with my large suitcase, if not, I have to stop and buy some clean underwear.  I plan to stop at White Castle on the way to the hotel.  I have not told Tedi about my plans, but if I just do it, what can she do?

Tomorrow the airlines will just be a bad memory. I am looking forward to seeing old friends and making some new ones. While I don't understand it, as long as people read this rambling, I will do it.  If you are here, be sure to come by. I miss Kierk already.

 
Posted by at

Sunday, October 11, 2015

It is a start


Now it begins.
It is time to start the Blog. Also, it will give me a chance to see if I can do it again. Usually Zoe has to train me each year, as I tend to forget how to do this.
The trip To St. Louis began with a late gate leave in Los Angeles, and therefore I missed my connection in New Jersey to get to the dog show in NH.  So, when I got in at 3:30, the next flight was 11:00 pm.  Rather than have someone pick me up at midnight, John Vought got in his car, drove three and a half hours, to pick me up.  Then about two hours on the road in bumper to bumper traffic, (Friday night and raining), to get to the motel. No food, so I dinered on Orange Crush and a Snickers.  In the morning I waited for someone to pick me up, and finally at 2:00 they came to get me, and fed me a hot dog at the show.
I did my thing and we all went to a great Italian dinner, then an hour and a half to the motel at the airport.  Bo and I went to our rooms and found both room numbers on a door. We were a bit apprehensive, but inside were two rooms, one for each. I was disappointed, but Bo was relieved.
The next morning I got a flight to Chicago, then on to Grand Rapids for a visit with my aunt, who showed me a new card trick. Ask me to show you at the National. At 102, she still is a better magician than me.
Early tomorrow I head to Minneapolis and on to St. Louis. I will get in an hour before Tedi, then to the show.  I need the rest.  Bob (The Voice of The National) Dresher can't make it this year, so it will be me and Tony.  That should be a kick,, but I will be doing this Blog, and announcing, having some White Castles with Dave Rinke, (we already made a date), and doing what I can to announce whatever is needed.
Come by to see me at the announcer's table, I will keep the light on for you.
Posted by at

Sunday, October 12, 2014

Final thoughts about another year

FINAL MUSINGS
 
We are home.  It was about six hours in airports and traveling. I am so thankful we didn't drive.
 
As with every national there was good and bad.  The judging was a good as it gets. Joan not only pulled the best of the best, but she did it with grace, beauty and style.  She has been and remains one of the best judges in our sport of all time. When she was finished we all knew that everyone got a good look and a fair opinion.  I heard little negative and a great deal of congratulations.  I saw everyone together. Clearly we are family and it showed this year.
 
Now about Michel. For years I have watched him judge and marveled at how easy he makes it look. He has been in the sport for years, but to have him judge our National was a treat to watch. He had no problem bringing the best to the front, and not just what the handlers tried to show him. He has such an understanding of the standard that we may have to get him to move South to a new country. 
 
When the dogs and bitches were done, we had been treated to the best possible judging that could be offered. We owe them a thanks, since with the new system, doing all the dogs, then all the bitches they judged all day, without a break and without stopping for pictures. What they did was have the judge make a number of poses with the ribbons and take the picture, they there are going to take the pictures of the winners and  photo shop in the winners.  It will be interesting.
 
Then we come to Bart.  I don't know if you noticed, but he only made two cuts.  He found those that he thought were Select Quality and told all of them after their first cut, but said he had to limit the Selects. He did that with such a positive system that we all got to see what he thought and why. Now, his Zoot Suit, that is something else. But with a shaved head and white beard, he was quite  a figure in there.  The Grand Victor and Grand Victrix were the best of the best. The Selects show us how far we have come to improve the breed, and I was proud as hell when I looked at them in there, because I knew we are all trying to reach that same goal.
 
The location is something to see. The surface is a problem because it shows everything. Not only can you see toes dragging, you can hear them. The weak back, the fast stepping, the bad feet, were there for the world to see. Some were not pleased, but if you want to judge to the standard, that is where to do it. The temperature was perfect for the dogs, and the lighting the best we have ever had. Lots of places to walk the dogs.  I was told the location was free and that is why we were there. Then I was told we are paying for it. I do not  know the truth, but I know it is set up well, and can only improve.  The people there welcomed us and were there for any problems.
 
The show is always a National and everything that implies. Seeing some people I have missed like Steve and Christine Granger was a real surprise.  Having Kobe go Grand Victor, and I have never been shy saying how much I love that dog, was special for me.  Getting to see Jane Kerner, Pam Stoeser, Jeff and all the handlers who have grown up on me. Tim Brown is always good for a laugh, and his face was all cleared up by the end of the show. I still think of the two, Diane is the best looking, but not everyone agrees with me. Lee Brown was there, as was Don and Elizbeth Knight, and I di not have time to talk to either of them.  There never is enough time for my friends, and the days go too fast.  I get to spend time with Bob Dresher each year, and Tony.  But, for me, it is the show second, my friends first.
 
It was another great year for me. There certainly were some disappointments and certainly I had high hopes for Kierk, but getting to see him with Gloria and Cappy who loves him so much, was special.
 
As for next year, I was pleased to see who is judging, but I did hope Jamie and Bob would get a part of it.  I do not know who is the fourth judge, but Bob has done the show before the show twice, and maybe will be there next year again.
 
In the end, I had a grreat time. I love that I was able to bring the show to life for you with the Blog, and that Linda dedicated herself to filming. That was an added gift to us all. The show came alive due to Linda, and we should thank her as well as the rest of the people who worked so hard for all of us.
 
Now back to the real world, and to look forward to St. Louis in 2015.
 
Posted by at

Saturday, October 11, 2014

The Bitches and the end

Bitch Specials.
 
It is going to be a long afternoon.
 
I am sitting with Bill Leonard. In the ring come the bitches.  I won't bore you with who is there, but there are a lot of them, and when they get in, and get the individuals done, I will let you know what is going on. Or, if you want me to say he is checking temperament about 50 times, I guess I cand o that too.
 
Sue Godek is ring side and she loved Keirk. Of course, she just gave him a Group One, so she has to say that.  I just gave Bill Lenord some White Castle burgers.   Danny Dwier is here and Bart's mother is sitting watching.  And the judging continues.
 
I just passed candy around and the judging continues. Art is out there wi a dark Bi.  OK, I will look her up. It is Sundance's Annie Oakley.  I know that bitch and know she can move.  The crowd appreciates that movement, going slow and easy.
 
It isn't nearly as exciting as males.  I am sure to the owners it is, but it is quiet in here.  It isn't raining, but it was 52 this morning. For a California person, that is cold.  Kathy Potter came by, and she seems happy with her Grand Victor.  Kelly was talking to me, but she has to go back in for the next group.  It seems interminable, but I don't have anything invested, (see Kierk in prior posts), so I am not that interested. 
 
Candy Z is here. They pulled YadaYada, she is out of coat.  Bart looks fresh and has been judging now for almost seven hours.  I see Pat and Celeste at ring side talking to Bill Basu who is handling their bitch, Champion Cherpa's Camera Ready of Merivern.  If Bart is interested in movement, that should be a big winner.  They bought the bitch from Ann Schultz and I saw her as a puppy in Michigan before they bought her, and fell in love.  I liked the bitch too.
 
Now Bart looks over his group, makes some notes and moves on. Myrina is in there now, she is a daughter of Akaya, that fantastic bitch, and she is as good as her mother.  Bob, (The Voice of The National) and I are beat and ready to call it a day.  Art Sinclair is sitting in front of me, so is Cappy. I know they worked hard to get ready for The Big Show, and I feel badly for them. We had so many compliments on Kierk, but not so much from Bart.  He gave his opinion from the ring.
 
Love is All You Need is in there. I like that bitch with tons of style.  Kelly is showing her and she has been one of he best handlers for years.  The bitch should be in the top five, but no one asked me to judge, again.  Love is a strong mover, and Bart makes some notes.
 
Legend's Kensington is in there, and she is sired by Turmeric. I always loved Turmeric, and the people that own him.  Lindsey, (Zac's main squeeze), handles her and does a great job.  Craig and Cindy Miller are here and working the crowd.
 
Bart's mom is sitting next to us, and I introduced myself. She is 94, or so I am told.  She didn't seem to want to chat. I am probably too young for her.
 
Now, on to another group.  Leslie is out there with an all black, Black Magic Women.  She is a good one, and a lot of style. I like her posed and she hasn't moved yet.  There she goes, and I still like her.  The crowd loves her, unless her owners have a large family here.
 
It is Starlett O'Hara.  I like that bitch, and she is a Promise Keeper daughter. He is a real producer and this bitch is a great example. Stylish, perky, feminine and can move.  She should be up there. 
Lots of people talking to each other. Paula was here for a while. I found out that there is not Best Veteran, and that surprised me. 
 
I was just told by Tedi that I don't want to go to the after show dinner, so I sold my tickets. I got to thank Sue Godek on my loser dog, Kierk, and she was excited about him.  Back to local shows for the poor guy.
 
Bart is checking his notes and there may only be one class left, at the most two.  I wonder if I could buy his notes. Maybe we could buy them by class and then know what he thought. This may be a new revenue source.  We should investigate this.
 
There are negotiations to keep Bobbie, and he is going to keep me informed. Tim Brown is here with a whistle, I think he is just letting Diane know where he is. Paige owns the bitch with Diane.   Her name is Kiedrows Jerri Lee of Ferlin.  I watched Paige handle and she has a great future. The bitch is owned by Paige and Gina Kiedrowski.  I like that little girl, and the bitch is nice too.  She should be in there at the end. 
 
Mary Ann Imhoff came by and we got to talk about Phoenix.  I love what he produced and if we bred more, we would have used him. We have about a litter every other year, and hopefully we have Magic Marker, Rom in whelp to Exxon. That could be exciting, more than the show right now.
 
This is a bit long to sit and watch. I would just as soon watch paint drying.
 
We are on the last group, so it might be time to nudge the person next to you and wake them up.  I always get candy for the announcer's table and Bob, (The Voice Of The National), and I have eaten about three bowls full.  I figure my diabetes can deal with it if I just decline to check my glucose levels.
 
Now, this bitch I like.  Her name is Depahl's I'm Just Sayin'.  That is what you want in a bitch, style, size and great side-gate.
 
Philip Morre is in there with a very very nice sable that moves as good as you could want.  It is Cauz'n Trouble.  And now Sylvain Genereux with Maja's Black Diamond. I think all we have now is the move-ups and the riff raff.
 
Now the move-ups, veterans, puppy, and winner's bitch.   I forgot to mention that Bart has shaved his head and has a full white beard. With an electric blue Zoot Suite, it is a real fashion statement.  I like it, but he needs a wide brimmed blue hat with an eagle feather.
 
Zelda looks great.  Paula Cooke is wandering the halls and wants to show Harley Davidson again.   Tony again told me how to change my computer. If I hung around with him more, I might learn something.
 
I think we may be having dinner with Stacy and Barbara, and Donna and Twyla. We could do that back home, but we want to start acclimatizing ourselves to California. Pat Draper came by to talk about selling dinner tickets. I am trying to give you the news to keep everyone interested. What more could you ask of the BLOG?
 
They are going to start cutting soon. I hope.  Bart keeps making notes, and now he bring out another bitch Kennelwood's Morning Jewel. That is about as stylish as you can get, and she is colored dark black and tan.  Very nice bitch.  I don't know her handler, but he does a fine job of showing her off.  The crowd loves her too, and seeing her move explains why. She should be in the top few.
 
Now Zelda. They have done a lot with her in performance, and also as a Grand Champion.   She won the Veteran class.  CDX RAE AX AXJ AXP AJP NFP OF TC CGC.  Nice bitch at any age.
 
Now the nine and over class bitch.  Golddigger. She is nine years old.  The crowd likes the old bitches.  So do I.  They don't show their age at all. It feels like people want something to shout about, and they did so for the veterans.
 
There goes the last class, and now we start cutting.
 
The climate here in the building is all you could ask for. A bit cold for bikini wearing, but perfect for a dog show.  I am fully dressed by request.
 
Now the first group comes in and each takes a pass.  Bart is looking at his notes and will start cutting.
 
Now he pulls Patti, Lenny, Mike, and another so he kept four.  Now the next group.   Another eight. Chyan came by to return the phone belonging Diane Mehra.   And the bitches keep going and now the cuts come.  Bart pulls Joanne, Elizabeth Bill Basu, and Anya, and the rest to the corner of death.  They get a chance to be a 'zombie' later.
 
On to the next group.  Eight more, dreaming of going Grand Victrix still in their heads.  He pulls Alex, Zac, Christy and Lindsey.  Another group.  Zac is running out of the ring. I can't imagine why. Another group.  Eight more. I am not a fan of what he is doing. I can't believe in each eight he only wants four. What if there are five or only two that are of the quality to keep?  I can't believe each group of eight has four to keep.  But, again, I am not judging.
 
Now to cut to the quick, not to be confused with Nestles Quick.  He pulls Leslie, Olivia,, Bill Tank, Kent, Jessica and another.  He listened to my Blog and stopped just with four.  This is the next to the last group.  Eight more.  Bart looks at them individually and then they stack and he looks over his notes.  Sylvain is the last, and now they stack and let the hearts beat.
 
He pulls Diane, Elizabeth, Scott, Morris and Sylvain. Sylvain has an all black.
 
Now, in comes the last group, thank god.  Eight more.  We bred the bitch with Nancy, so I hope she gets picked at least the first round.
 
He pulls George, Zac again, and they start changing bibs and kept on of the veterans and not the Winner's Bitch. Nancy runs over to the dump group to go on a bitch.  22 in the next to out now, so he kept the rest so far. He might find something pleasing here. I find I don't much care.
 
NO, they all go out. And the crowd cheers. I never did understand that. I also didn't like it when I injured myself in Del Mar in the ring and when they took me out on the cart the crowd cheered. I think they were glad to see me leave the ring.
 
Around they go, the second half of the almost over for this show.  The crowd wants him to keep the Winners Bitch, and so Bart takes her around again, to please the rest of us.  He points at her and she heads off to the good place.  The rest get sent home for the year.
 
Now he brings out the fabulous keepers, 29.  He thinks those are all good enough to make the cut, much as he did with my dog.  It is still all about me.
 
Off goes the first ten.  He sends the other 19 outside the ring.  And looks over that ten.  There they go one at a time.  No one can say they didn't get a good look.  He has three groups, so if he pulls four from each group, that appears to me to be twelve. But, I was never good with math.
 
Camera Ready takes a pass. That should be a top quality winner. 
 
Bart checks his notes, looks at the bitches, and has them go around again.  And he pulls 6 (making Tish, Lenny, Elizabeth, Bill, Michael, Alex very happy) and sends the other 4 home.  Out come the next set of 10.  Once around, and Bart is ready to do more cutting.  And this set he keeps 4 (Christy, Leslie, Olivia, Kent); and the rest go home.  Last set of nine are in the ring.  The Winners Bitch Morning Jewel goes around to a lot of applause.  Bart asks him to go again, and nods his head at what he sees.  He keeps 6, including the Winners Bitch.  He now has 16 in the ring.
 
Bart has the 16 keepers huddle up as he gives them further instructions. He so far has kept 16.  Three are Select Excellent.  I don't know if he will go that deep. He is taking them all down and back right in front of me, and being taped.  I love that Celeste has her bitch still here. She looked great and even if he cuts, I think she will make it.  She has such a disappointment with Exxon, she deserves this, Pat too.
 
Each down and back and they all look good to me.  Now the Winner's Bitch. She was cut, but the crowd went wild and he brought her back like Phoenix rising from the ashes.
 
There they stack all 16 of them.  He says take them around. They all take a pass and Bart watches them for about ten feet of the pass.  He hasn't placed them yet, and the crowd is still behind the winer's bitch. That is an awfully large group, but I think he should just go with it.
 
Now each one, one at a time.  I don't know if he intends to cut any or not.  Bart looks at them each all the way around, and nobody knows if there is going to be another dump. I don't think so, I think he just has to arrange them.  That could be interesting.  It is quarter to six, and we need to catch a flight tomorrow.
 
Now he takes the last four, then the next to the last four, and the next four until he gets to the top.  It is nerve wracking but now he is going to keep them all in, that keeps us from the cardiac ward.
 
He makes no changes, takes Scott and Alex and moves Alex up to ninth or so,  and now he goesto the bitches he has in fourth through seventh. Now to the  to the top or first three.
 
He has the top three and moves Angel to fourth.  And there go those three with Kent in fifth.
 
Now the first three, Mike, Lenny, Winner's Bitch and Phil Car's Angel V Wingait.  Frank Fasano is yelling at Rose, whoever that is.  Second for now is Winsome's Heiress V Depahl. It sure gets quiet in here when no one is moving. I think it is just between first and second. Each head off one at a time. 
 
Mike moves to the front with Dershimer Alea V-Elite Design Tokay.  Kathy Potter had the Grand Victor, will she have the Grand Victrix too?  Only time and Bart will tell.  Second is now the Winner's Bitch and the crowd is wild for her.  Now Lennie wiuth Heiress, not as much crowd, but my favorite.  And He moves 528 up.  And that is it, Grand Victrix is Dershimer Alea V Elite Design Tokay.
 
The placings are 618,, 525, 528, 615, 658, 659, 635, 611, 644, 508, 613, 660, 645, 628, 643.
 
What a show. Some heartache, some joy, some fun and some not so much.
 
On to next year.
 
Posted by at

Back for the rest of the show

Well, I got a lot of comments on Kierk, and he did make the first cut. I think the first cut was 25 or so, so it means something.
 
Black Bart went Select and that is our breeding, but it wasn't as good as I had hoped for. 
 
They are about done with the Juniors, and are going on to the AOE. Then the bitch specials.
 
It never got real exciting, but Bart did a good job and had some real stars in there. Of course I love Kobe, and always have. Ann now has her second Grand Victor.
 
When her first GV went winner's dog, Ann was not there. I called her at home and told her she better get to the show. She went to the airport with just a toothbrush and no change of clothes. She got there the next day to see ET go Grand Victor. She always thanks me for that.
 
What a lot do not know is that when Ann got into this dog sport she showed her first bitch to Dave Rinke at the National. She didn't know about handlers.  That was her Grand Victrix. 
 
Jaclyn Smith is the Best Junior Handler.
 
On to the Bitch Specials.  I will get over Kierk, and will be ready to go again by the time of the next National.
 
Posted by at

Personal and private, she says

Leslie says hello to Kay.  I have no idea what that means, but since I love Leslie, I did it.
 
Posted by at

BEST OF BREED MALES

Best of Breed - Dogs
 
Last day of the National and the crowd is rolling in early.  Bart (The Judge) Bartley showed up in an electric Blue Suit - looks very dapper.  I talked to Gary Szymczak, and he said that Bart asked if he should still do the dearly departed since he is judging.  Gary insisted that he do it since they have been doing it together for so many years.
 
We had some confusion at the start.  Gail had the opening ceremony planned; but Bart changed it.  After about 10 iterations, it ended up mostly how Gail intended.  The stands are almost full.  First Gary & Bart did the dearly departed, followed by the presentation of the Obedience Victrix.  Then they brought all of the Dog specials in the ring.  After all the dogs were in the ring, they dimmed the lights, and played a video of Don Smith singing the National Anthem from 1992(?).  It ended to a big round of applause from the crowd, and a lot of barking from the dogs in the ring.
 
They turned the lights back up, and Bart asked for the microphone.  He said 3 things would negatively impact your dog: (1) doubling/interfering during the temperament test; (2) not showing him a loose lead; and (3) unsportsmanlike conduct.  They are in catalog order, but with a little swapping based on handlers.  40 dogs are here, and Bart divided them into 5 groups of 8.  He said he would allow handlers to swap until he gets down to 20 (probably have all in the ring at that point).  Karen Wagner keeps the first group in the ring, and asks the rest to leave.
 
It is 8:40am; the formalities are done; and the show begins.  The first group is in and Bart is settling into a routine.  He checks with Bob Lindsey a few times to make sure everything is getting on the video and goes to work.  Some nice applause for each dog, but not much excitement (yet).  Bart left all the dogs in the order they started.  Bart has his notepad out; makes a few final notes; one more time around; and time for Group 2.
 
The stands are full, but not much hollering - I think everyone is waiting for individuals to finish and for the jockeying for position to start.  Bart has finished with Group 2 and is now working on Group 3.  A little more excitement in Group 3; but not much.  And now Group 4 comes in the ring, a lap around, individuals, another lap, some notes, and out they go.  The excitement in the crowd is building with each group.  And the last group comes in the ring.  The is the group with the Winners Dog and Veterans.  The crowd is really coming alive now, with extra applause for the Veterans.  More notes, a final lap, and that finishes the last group.
 
And now the fun begins.  It's about 10:30 and you can tell, things are going to move fast.  The first group is back in the ring.  Bart asks for one lap around SLOW.  No one was slow, did I did see quite a few loose leads.  From the first group Bart pulls out 563 Razzle Dazzle, 564 Morocco, 565 Captain America, 574 Grayson (and sets the other 4 to the side).  In comes the second group, one lap around, and Bart pulls out 566 Trust U With My Heart, 573 Player, 578 Rocco, 599 Black Bart.  Now for the third group; Bart pulls out 582 Ya Gotta Know, 583 Thunder Road, 584 Jaeger, 585 Man U Man, 561 Harry.  Fourth group and Bart pulls out 600 Kirk, 601 Showlow, 602 All That Matters.  And the last group is in and Bart pulls out 604 Malawi, 607 Expresso, and 336 Quincy (Winners Dog).  Now Bart pulled out all the "set aside" dogs and looks them over.  He has each do one lap around.  Each gets some applause, and each looks like a champion; not not necessarily a Grand Victor (in Bart's Opinion).  Bart pulls out 572 Fermare, 593 Under Siege, 594 Gambit Krug  and adds to the "keeper" pile.  The rest are dismissed.  The veterans get a little extra applause, but leave with the rest.
 
We are now down to 22.  Bart has pulled all of the handler together in a huddle and giving them some additional instructions.  He is keeping the first 8 to look at again; and keeps 4; 564, 565, 574, 599.  He looks at the second group and keeps 5; 582, 584, 585, 561, 601.  He looks at the third group and keeps 4; 602, 604, 336, 594.  He is now down to 13.  He has been weeding down, but has not yet started to place them.  He is cutting the group in half for the next phase.  Bart looks at the first group, but no movement yet.  He brings in the second group.  I have been talking to Patty Szymczak about Select Excellent - 5 of the 13 in the ring qualify.  Bart has looked at both groups, made some more notes; and brings the entire group together.  Bart has each go around one at a time, and lots of crowd support for each one. 
 
Bart checks his notes one more time.  And then starts placing.  561 Harry, 602 All That Matters, 604 Malawi, 564 Morroco, 565 Captain America, 599 Black Bart, 585 Man U Man, 574 Grayson, 336 Quincy, 584 Jaeger, 601 Showlow, 582 Ya Gotta Know, 594 Gambit.  It looks like he is keeping all 13.   Bart looks at the last four and moved up 582.  Bart looks at the next 3 and moves up 336 Quincy.  Bart looks at the next 3 and moves up 599 & 565.  Bart then looks at his top 4.  561 Harry is in front and has lots of crowd support.  Next is 602 All That Matters with equal crowd support.  Third is 604 Malawi with support (but not as much as the first two).  Bart moves All That Matters to the front and the crowd goes wild.  Bart brings the whole group back together - he may be done . . . and yes, that's how they finish.
 
Nothing for Kierk, but he made the first cut.
 
Posted by at

Here we go

It is going to be a rough day.
 
I just went to see Kierk.  Bill is grooming him and The Guz is giving tips.
 
They are going to play a film of Don Smith singing, then they are going to ring the bell for our friends, and I just heard Tom Sherman died.
 
Not an easy day to start.
 
Posted by at

So, now it begins

When the twilight is gone!
 
It is going to be an exciting day.  I got here about 6:00. Kelly Sevalas was here already, and the place is abuzz now.  Paula Cook just came by with one of those O'Connor sons, Harley Davidson, the same as Kierk.  They wanted to bathe Kierk early and Art is going to let me go in with him and the bib to hold him to check in.
 
Art has two special males, so with an entry of 50, a lot will be outside until it is there turn.
 
Everyone has dreams today, and a few will be realized. I was not able to sleep and you would think after doing this for 45 years, it would be more relaxed, but the nerves remain. Perhaps were they not there, it would not be s much fun.
 
I have been thinking of some of the memories of the years past, and those who won't be here this year, and then who will be with us next year. I always go outside when they ring the bell, but last year I stayed and put on my sun glasses. Not that I tear up, (I am way too manly for that), but I don't want to take the chance. 
 
We tested the microphone and got rid of the base.  Bob, (The Voice Of The National) is so macho, that his voice was garbled. I had them put in more treble.  I understand they are going to show a video of Don Smith singing the National anthem in 1992.  Bobbie found it for us and converted it to use at our show.
 
OK, I have driveled enough without mentioning Kierk.  What a day this will be. I am down to hoping he makes the first cut.  I was talking to Sandy and there is a chance Bobbie will continue. They are starting to treat him as a human being now, and maybe we can find a way to do a little more and keep him doing this.  Gary and Patti are here and it looks like a dog show.  Gail Stifferman just stopped to talk about some stuff, and the tension is building.
 
It is time for me to stop stressing, walk around and get ready for the Big Show.  I listened to people who said what they wanted so I went and got new candy.  I see Bill Tank and I may try to go to White Castle one more time.
 
Cappy came by and so I am going to go see my second best friend.
 
 I love the sound of blow dryers in the morning.
 
Posted by at

Early Saturday morning coming down

How can anyone sleep when two of their males will be competing?  It is three thirty Saturday morning and in just four and a half hours Harley Davidson and Kierk will be in the big ring.  I would bet Paula is up.
 
I miss the Gradys and the Browns, but the California folks are here with Dick Jennings, and Barbara and Stacy. Of course Debbie Friedberg and Sheryll are here, Twyla and Donna, and Pat and Celleste.  There are many others too, and California always supports a national.

I don't much like the rain or the speakers, but if that is all I can complain about, it is a great national.
 
This has been some of the best judging I have ever seen. Of course I have seen those three, Michel, Bob and Joan judge before, but to see all three is a treat.
 
I got to spend time with Jane Kerner, Pam Stosser, Dave and Martha Rinke, and Jeff. That itself makes it a good national for me. 
 
Well, not much more time to go, so I think I will start packing for the trip home, and consider what is going to happen today.
 
Posted by at

Friday, October 10, 2014

Friday night before the Big One

I got to see some great dogs in the ring after they allowed the handlers to work the dogs. Exxon is going to be a Grand Victor, but not this year, they are going to pull him.
 
Kierk looks great, and I am excited to see him compete.
 
Now, I saw Kobe. Nothing can beat him if he looks like what I just saw.  That is as good as it gets and I predict he is our next Grand Victor.
 
We went to the Fasano's party, and it was crowded, with tons of food.   Because it was my last chance I got Tedi to take me for my third trip to White Castle.
 
Sitting there was Dave and Martha Rinke and Paul Johnson.  They had ordered a box of 30 and sat with us when I ate my two.  Tedi was the only person who was left out. They were taking the 30, (now 24) back to the room to sit and drink beer and eat hamburgers.
 
It is a small world after all.
 
I asked Tony to post for the Blog as I expect to be standing outside the ring having a nervous fit.  But, I expect Kierk to at least make the first cut.  I am easy.
 
Now, to get some rest, (yeah, fat chance of that), and on to Saturday.
 
Thanks for joining me on this Blog, I hope I didn't offend too many people.
 
Posted by at

Veteran Bitches

Veteran Bitch 7-9
 
5 Veterans all bitches.  I know the first one, Akaya number 550. She just had a litter, but is looking good. Next is Cinosam's Braunhaus, and Samurai daughter number 551.  The third is You Bet Your ASP of PHT, 552.   Then we have Keggi Fair's Ubetch Kos Mar 553, and last is number 554 Zelda.  She is one of those letter bitches, CDX RAE AX AXJ AXP AJP NFP OF TC  CGC.  I wish I had some idea what they meant, other than the owners worked their ass off.
 
Now, this is quiet. Gary Stasser is here talking to us. I haven't seen him in 20 years. He and Pam are here and it is great to see them.
 
The one with the letters, Zelda is a Grand Champion too. It is Dawn Van Dyken's bitch. Dawn is always fun to see, and we have a great story to tell. I will do that some day.
 
Zelda goes to the front.  The crowd likes that.  Yes, Zelda wins it.  First is GCH  Dawnhill's Zelda CDX RAE AX AXJ AXP AJP NFP OF TC ,  Bob (The Voice of the National) Dressher finished her.  Second is GCH Ch Mariner's Akaya RN HSAS CGC,  Third is Ch Schneiferhof's You Bet Your Asp of PHT, and fourth is Cinosam's Brauhaus Bedazzled.
 
On to the 9+ Bitches.
 
All Five showed up and two of them are ten years old.
 
First in there is555 Ch Lieberchen's Boogie Wonderland, Then 556 GCH Marquis All About Me RN, then Ch Vici's Windsong, OFA, GCH Shadyrock's Dancing Doll TC and finally GR CH Joelle's Golddiger of Jeseffan CD, RN, CGC.
 
How do you judge them with a six or seven year old kid on the second bitch?  I know the crowd is going to go crazy.  Terry Rock just came by to ask a question. As normal, I had no answer for her.
 
Yeah, they like Liz Oster's son.  That was crazy and Joan was grinning and shaking her head. She is still laughing.  I remember when Morton had that problem and just laughed. You have to do the right thing, no matter what your heart tells you.
 
Now Joan says, take them around and off they go. The crowd likes 559 at ten and a half.  I like her too, but my favorite is 558.  559 to the front, then 558. The kid goes up, and by mistake and Joan says no, and shakes his hand and talks to him. He is still talking to Joan. 
 
Now we are having fun. She has him in third.
 
Time for another run, and this might be it. She does not run the old folks that much or the dogs.  No, she has a change to make.  She Does It Like That.
 
First is GR CH Joelle's Golddigger of Jeseffan CD RN CGD; Second is GCH Shadyrock's Dancing Doll, TC, Third is CH Vici's Windsong OFA, and Fourth is GCH Marquis All About Me Rn.
 
That does it for the judging today. Some fun tonight. Party at Franks, Junior Seminar this afternoon. Tomorrow should be fun and interesting, with the Specials. I have walked Kierk around a lot, and he will be in the ring tomorrow.  I am starting to get excited. It is going to be the first time I ever have had a dog that might compete for Grand Victor.
 
I will turn this over to Tony, he won't drool on the keyboard.
 
Posted by at

Winners Bitch

WINNER'S BITCH
 
Now we see who will be Winner's Bitch and who gets to compete in the Big Show tomorrow, with dreams of Grand Victrix.
 
Tony is sending the placings to Michel so that he can post them with his catalog. It saves me some time on the phone and he does it with his Blackberry.  So, we have a real team going here.  In come the class winners, and this should not take much to figure out.  What unbelievable bitches.
 
Lee Brown came by and we got to talk for a minute. He is now talking and sitting next to Rita. I am better looking, but he doesn't think so.
 
What a lineup of bitches.
 
Joan walks down the line and looks at each one heads first, feet, then overall. 
 
Now she walks to the front and goes to the middle of the ring.  There they go, and I like the Open Bitch.    Leslie has 539. Mike has 525 the Open bitch, Next is American Bred with Liz 485. Joan keeps looking at the Open bitch.  And Liz goes down and back. She poses here for the crowd.  Now 482.  A low stationed bitch and Joan gives them all a look. Now Phoenix with 472.  A dark Bi.  461 with Georgie.  Tiffany is behind me, so Bart must be somewhere close. 455 with Cindy.  Cindy broke her wrist and ankle at one of our shows, but is doing well.  It is 448 with Scottie.  And now 440, and she too is a nice bitch but young. Only two more to go.
 
Zac has 438, and down and back. Joan has them each stand and they pose while she studies them.  It is interesting and the last one 429.  A bit of tension in the room now.
 
She walks down and looks them over and there they are, Mike in front, the Liz, so it is 425, 485 and 461.  The Open Bitch in Front and the Promise Keeper daughter from American Bred in second. I probably could go with either of them, but my choice would be the Open bitch, but I can see the American bred too.  The open Bitch is a dark bitch but they both move, and now the American goes in front. She is a crowd favorite, and more of a standard look.  Each bitch gest to go in front one time, all six of what she likes.  That is a lot of running.  That is why they get the big bucks.
 
I can't believe they can do this.  I am so glad I gave up handling when I see six times around.  The first two from the classes look better and better. If she is expecting them to give in, it ain't going to happen. The open Bitch is coming on.  And YES, the Open bitch in front the American Bred in Second.  Mike looks bushed but heads out. 
 
YES IT IS MIKE WITH KENNELWOOD'S MORNING JEWEL
 
Reserve is the Second Open Bitch Mazerick's  Von Hornberger's Taking Care of Business
 
Posted by at

Long Coated Bitches

Long Coat Bitches
 
That is a decent class with eight in there. If the coat is too short, are they disqualified?  I don't know the rules.  I do love some of those names.  Bad Hair Day!  One of the dogs was Hairison.
 
Who said we don't have a sense of humor.
 
However, I notice no one has entered a White.  Good thing the change didn't pass.
 
I guess we can see where one parent carries the long coat factor. We still don't know which one, do we?
 
Joan likes what Leslie has 539, but looks at the bite again, and there they go.  It is really quiet now, and they take a pass.  And Joan gives everyone a good look she approaches the line nd pulls 535, 537, 538 and 539.  They are in order, so it doesn't mean much yet and Joan stands way back and tells them to take them around again, just the fab four, and the crowd is in to it. And She is staring at them and looking at Leslie. She walks up to them and takes 537 up front, and leaves the rest.  Another pass and there they go with Jeff in front and I thinkk that willbe in, but Joan is giving them another look and moves 538 to the front, and 539 to second. A lot of applause.  She looks at them and walks back and looks them over. They are doing a "clean-up" in the ring. They have to scrub the surface with a mop. Interesting. And there they go again.  Now the crowd is in to it big time they like it like that and I would move Leslie up.  And YES Leslie goes to the front and Joan is going to make another change, 538 to second.
 
Four left, and the crowd likes that and yes that's how it is. First is Makintrax Waiting to Exhale, Second is Mazerick's-Vonhornberger's Taking Care of Business, Third is Kysarah's Whiskey In The Jar, and Fourth is Neo's Scarlett Of Wolf Creek.
 
I think they have to be extra special to be kept as a long coat, so the quality was exceptional.  Waiting to Exhale is a fantastic moving bitch and could win easily.
 
Posted by at

Open Bitches

Open Bitches
 
Twelve in there, and it still is a great looking group of bitches.  I thought the males were fantastic, but this is mind blowing. And with my mind that is a soft breeze.
 
Now I have next to me, Bill Leonard, Jerry Guzman, Tony, Bob, (The Voice of the National) and Bill Basu. Now, how can I be expected to get anything right with that group laughing and telling jokes.
 
Joan does the individuals.  There are four move-ups in this class. There is some real quality.  I was pleased with a number of those bitches in the first group, now the second group. Mike, George, Kelly Lennie A young lady I don't' know and Jason.  Not many with temperament problems. I know Exxon didn't want his testicles touched, but Joan told me that she knew he had good temperament, and that he was perfect on the temperament test.  It is so strange, and we have to remember these are just dogs, and we have to understand anything can happen on any day.  I am very high on Exxon and know the dog well as we have watched him grow as a puppy.  I would not questions his temperament. I wonder if they will show him at the Saturday class.  Paula came by to talk, and so far I am still talking.  She is nervous with Harley in Specials tomorrow.  Basu, The Guz and Bob, (The Voice of The National) are still talking.
 
Tony is sending the numbers to Michel and he has a catalog, so he can post the results too. I hope I am getting them out soon enough. They are still filming the winners when I send them out to AOL.  Kirk just walked up; so Evan had to leave to see his dog (pretty obvious that Kirk ranks above Bob and Tony).  Joan is just finishing the individuals on the last group.  No indications on which ones she likes.  They brought the first group in, so now Joan has the entire class to look at.  She steps back to look at the entire group, and then starts pulling out dogs.  She pulled out 6; and then a second look at the last 6; and then excuses them.  So now she is down to her six keepers (509, 518, 522, 525, 526, 531).  Once around the rings, and she starts placing them.  She puts 525 Mike with Morning Jewel up front followed by 531 U Made my day.  She has the next 4 go around once, and leaves 509 Reville in thrid and moves 526 Gearge with Unforgettable to fourth.  Once around and that's how they finish.
 
Posted by at

MY BAD

CORRECTION CORRECTION CORRECTION CORRECTION
 
American Bred Bitches.
 
First is Tr Ro' Jenevieve V Ann-Isle.  I apologize to L. Nordestorm and Van Dukeman & M. Simone.  Please don't sue me
 
 
Tony said there may be another mistake. Stay to his location for an update
 
 
Posted by at

American Bred Bitches

American Bred Bitches
 
WOW!  17 in the class. As they stack, they look like some real bitches.  I may go back to the motel and take a nap.  I do need a break.  Where is Summer when I need her?
 
I took a break, did you miss me?
 
Joan is working on her second group. I got a lot done, and she is still working. Everyone seems poised to break into applause, but so far no excitement. Maybe when she gets down the the last ten or so.  Only one more group to go.  Ha Jae is here and watching the class.  Jennifer Root is walking and working the crowd. I just saw Fred Migliore, and it is great to see him again.
 
Joan sends them out, and in come some new bitches. Handling the entries.  Bob Eaton is by, and doing well.   His is the last group of the American Bred Bitches, so now we get down to the real stuff. I did check some of the vendors. 
 
The stands have really filled up since this morning.  They didn't seem too interested in 12-18 and Novice; but now that Am Bred (and next class Open), the crowd is really watching.  They have the reserved seating on the West side of the building and free seats (bleachers) on the East side.  On the North and South, there are just aisles, and a lot of people have brought chairs up to the ring to watch.  It's Friday afternoon and Joan is still smiling.  She is showing no signs of being tired (but we still have several classes to go). 
 
Ok, last group done and Joan brings everyone back in the ring.  She takes a long look at everyone, and starts pulling out the ones she likes.  She pulls out 485, 488, 492, 496, & 499; and sets them aside.  She looks at the remaining 12, and lets them all go home.  She pulls the 5 she kept back to the front of the ring and starts the process of placing them in order.  485 Liz with Jenevieve is up front; then 496 Mike with Ada; then 499 Scott with Serena; then 488 Lenny with Daisy; and last is 492 Lindsey with Celeste.  She looks them all over, and takes each one on a down & back (no changes).  Joan steps back and looks them all over. 
 
Joan has her winners there with the first three in contention. She took Liz in front first, and ow Mike with 496, (Liz has 495) and Scott with 499 now in front. I suspect Liz will go back, but I could go with any of those three. Mike's is moving best on this pass. Joan walks to the first and runs the tail, and Puts Liz Back In Front. I think she just made a statement, and now brings the other two, 4889 with Lenn and 492. Damn nice bitches. What a class.
 
Joan moves 492 into fourth, and puts Lenny Best of Dump, and YES, that's it.
 
First is Dream CT-TEBE Nobe Dreams OF Thunder; Second is Yormork's Who's That Girl; Third is Breal-Jogra's Serena V Signature; and Fourth is Von Nassau's Celeste of Norberge.
 
The first two were Bob's (The Voice of The National), Winner's Bitch and Reserve Winner's Bitch.  We have to thank Tony for filling in as I passed out candy to the crowd.
 
Posted by at

Bred By Bitches

Bed By Bitches
 
I just told Jane that she has won enough and to keep Captain America in the crate tomorrow.  She didn't agree with me, but promised to think about it. 
 
And the judging goes on.  A free party tonight with the Fasanos.  I see Rita is here and the place is filled and not much noise now. I see Nancy Hubble is ringside, and there is a bit of milling about. I think the energy is higher for dogs than bitches. Jeff is about to take Myjoy Foxhaven Born This Way around.  Do we know the sound of one hand clapping. No one is getting much of a response, maybe whenw e get to American Bred.
 
Carolyn Martello is behind me, and she is doubling an all Black Terra Norte's Upon A Midnight Clear. Man, can you see the blacks against the white curtain. There is a white curtain all around the ring.  There is a bit of buzz, but not much cheering. I hear it is raining outside. I think we might give up the oil pipeline from Alaska, and instead build a water line to California. We need some of this and there would be no problem with leaks.  Shawn Conby came by to talk. He says everything is good. So far, I agree with him.
 
She moves up 474, then 477, 481, 481, Mike with 482.  That may be her four, and off they go. Mike goes up in front with 482, after a great pass.  With John Boyd last Jeff in third and Christy in second.  Joan says, "Take them around".  There they go and man, is that nice, and that is it.
 
First is Tokaye's Karma V Elite Design Dershimer. Second is Camoeon Kodakoda Zenyatta Ferarri. Third is Myjoy-Foxhaven Born This Way. Fourth is Blackcrest's Phara Selighaus.
 
Now the big time. Of course in dogs the Winnner's Dog was the 12-15. 
 
Posted by at
Subscribe to: Posts (Atom)