It was ironic that at the very start of the Florida Classic Cluster I, the news of Margaret (Peggy) Newcombe's passing was heard. To say that I was both startled and saddened understates my reaction. I numbered Peggy as one of the truly great dog people of our time, and certainly a great contributor to the sport, as well as to the breeding of dogs. Her Pennyworth Whippets were legendary, with Ch. Courtney Fleetfoot of Pennyworth having been awarded Best at the “Big W” by Len Carey in 1964. Bob Forsyth was the handler of this great dog. Interestingly, Peg's mother was the owner of Claredale Kennel's Sealyham, which was also awarded the top prize at Westminster in 1936. Peg was an avid supporter of ours and always had good ideas and thoughts for us to think about. Frequently, she offered grist for the mill in matters concerning both show and breeding principles. Originally from Long Island, she moved to Florida. Our sympathy to her children, most particularly her daughter Claire, who remains so active in the sport today. Peggy was an extraordinary dog person who will certainly be missed.
As for the Brooksville Shows held at The Florida Classic Cluster I, the four days are on the 66- or 68-acre grounds bought by the original clubs seven or eight years ago. They form Cluster I and are Inverness, Tampa Bay, Pasco and Clearwater Kennel Clubs. The improvements they have made here are most noteworthy, particularly since the inception of the shows at this site. Not contentwith standing still are these clubs. With each visit, they make the permanency and usefulness of the site more apparent. The importance of these shows, going over 2,500 dogs entered, and with Cluster II expecting 300-400 more dogs, indicates that the Fancy shows its appreciation by rightfully supporting these clubs so strongly. I understand the original mortgage on the property is almost paid up, and once this is done, some zoning changes may be applied for, resulting in perhaps a permanent-type building, à la Riddle Field, in Ohio. The economic impact—most favorably brought to the surroundingcommunities—has been positive. These clubs have been truly great neighbors within the community and have made new friends for dog show people generally. Too bad there are not closer and better restaurants, but hopefully these will come soon. One caveat—don't spoil these great events with intra-club squabbling. Work together, as you have done in the past so successfully. Hats off to all, particularly the Cluster coordinator, the indomitable Mary Manning.
As to the winners, the first night was the German Shepherd bitch shown by Jimmy Moses. Thenext two nights were the White Standard Poodle shown by Chris Manelopoulos. And the last night, before the Wednesday break, was the Smooth Fox Terrier exhibited by Susie Kipp. I must say, the final line-ups were exceedingly strong each night. Class and Special competitions in several breeds were absolutely outstanding. I watched a Special class in a breed which was about the best I had ever seen for this breed. While I agreed with the judge's decision, the way in which he did it truly raised my shackles. I don't recall whether or not a field rep was watching, but if ever a procedure should have been written up, it was in this case. With this glorious Class, the judge chose to make it a no-contest situation. It was as though it had been a single-entry class. What a disservice to both the dogs and the exhibitors, Ithought.
As the Board election nears, the usual stories emerge. Who knows what is true and what to believe. Certain people are said to be burning up the phone line endorsing their choices. Indeed, one set of people is said to be claiming responsibility for selecting the three ladies endorsed by the Nominating Committee, calling them “their slate.” Well, I don't know if it is their slate or not, but knowing two of the three ladies quite well, I doubt they are under anyone's control. What the power hungry want you to think oft times is not the case at all. Certainly with three sitting or former board members running from the floor, to say nothing of the one sitting board member being nominated by the NC, one must wonder how well the two neophytes will come out in this fray. That's Vogels and Hart, of course.In recognition alone they face an uphill battle, but one never knows, do they!
You know, I was just amazed by my friend Bob Berndt's article last week condoning shows being held at Christmas and New Year's. Come on, Bob, this should not be permitted under any circumstances whatsoever.
Terry Miller asked me to apologize for inadvertently leaving out of her Briard National story the fact that Ch. Fox Lair Majesty, in addition to winning a Veteran class about which she wrote, was also awarded an Award Of Merit. Also, the BOS winner, Ch. K'Instant Success Moravia Campanella, is a Canadian champion as well as an American champion. In addition, the photo credit should have been given to Tracy Thorleifson. •