It
was hot July 4th in Oklahoma City.
We had been warned that it would be. There wasn't a single day
of rain. The show building was air conditioned and we spent very
little time out of doors. The Oklahoma City Kennel Club and the
Mid-Del-Tinker Kennel Club joined forces to make it a great
weekend for all.

The
hospitality of the people rivaled the South for friendliness and
helpful attitudes. Everyone made us welcome and the visit was most pleasant.
There were some exciting events
that were planned and a few that were not.
On
Thursday, there was an unfortunate incident with a judge being
attacked by a dog that was actually aiming for another dog. The
unexpected, sudden lunge caught the judge before he could escape
from harm’s way. The reports from those in attendance advised
that there were sirens, an ambulance, a stretcher and the judge
was taken to the hospital for medical help. He was back the
next day, and doing his job as usual.

On Saturday, the show was taped
for a future television show, to be
broadcast
sometime in October, 2006. It was exciting to participate and
to watch the exhibitors compete for Group placements before the
eye of the camera. The judges were all so professional and
handsome in their evening
attire. The spectators were exhibitors and visitors who
applauded with gusto and enthusiasm as the dogs were gaited,
examined and evaluated.
There
were so many outstanding specimens in all the groups that any
exhibit would have been an excellent choice. What an exciting
experience to be chosen in the Group for America to see!
Judge Michael Doughterty
selected, for Best In Show, the Herding winner, Old English
Sheepdog, Ch Bugaboos Big Resolution owned by D & M A Johnson &
Bridget Callahan.
The
“after the show party” featured a live band and dancing. The
food was delicious and everyone had a great time.
We congratulate the Cluster
officials headed by Dr. Roger Pritchard and club officers
and members for an outstanding job of making everyone welcome
and comfortable even though the temperature soared over 90
degrees.
If you have never been you have missed a treat!!! Make
your plans for next year.
Photos and comments
by AKC Judge Dot Martin.