Anyone planning on attending the Annapolis KC show this Saturday? I'm
planning to (If I can get the silly document with all the info to
print!)....

I've got my notes from folks here on talking to exhibitors ect and
hopefully, this will be an enjoyable day...
Darby

On Fri, 18 Feb 2005 14:05:44 -0500, Darby Wiggins
wrote:


I've got my notes from folks here on talking to exhibitors ect and
hopefully, this will be an enjoyable day...
Darby

Wish I could - have several friends showing. Will be in Leesburg, VA
at flyball.

--
Janet B
www.bestfriendsdogobedience.com

Couple of questions....I've got my list of breeds, when they show, what
ring ect.

1. Are the shows generally run on time?
2. Since it appears they want to minimize the amount to stuff you bring,
what would you recommend to bring (I'm thinking a small pad of paper and
pen to write things down, water, wallet). Thoughts?
3. Its in an armoy...any experience in whether shows are warm or cold
temp. wise?
4. I expect that there will be lots of opportunities to purchase breed
memorabilia correct?....are they generally well priced or way over
marked?
5. I've read through the info and nothing is said about limiting
spectators from the grooming area. Is it safe to go into that area or is
it a no-no etiquette wise?...I want to watch but don't want to interfere.

6. Judging by the timing, layout ect, are shows usually as crowded and
hectic as they appears?
7. The first breed I want to see starts at 9 am...how early should you
get to a ring to get a good view? Do they have chairs or is it standing?
What about the Groups and BIS?..how early does one need to be at the ring
to get a good spot?

So far, it seems like all the action I want to see are in rings 1 and 9.
Labs are at 9 am. 10 am are the Curly Coat's and Chessy (in the same
ring), 11 am the FCR, 12:45 the Goldens, 1:45 the Welsh Springers and
2:45 the ESS...and the Groups and BIS begin at 3:30 (how long do the
groups and BIS usually last?)

Any other things you think would be helpful, please feel free to let me
know.
Darby

Janet B wrote:

On Fri, 18 Feb 2005 14:05:44 -0500, Darby Wiggins
wrote:


I've got my notes from folks here on talking to exhibitors ect and
hopefully, this will be an enjoyable day...
Darby

Wish I could - have several friends showing. Will be in Leesburg, VA
at flyball.

--
Janet B
www.bestfriendsdogobedience.com

On Fri, 18 Feb 2005 14:45:14 -0500, Darby Wiggins
wrote:


1. Are the shows generally run on time?

more or less, yes.

2. Since it appears they want to minimize the amount to stuff you bring,
what would you recommend to bring (I'm thinking a small pad of paper and
pen to write things down, water, wallet). Thoughts?

It can get pretty crowded in the armory (you know there are shows
saturday AND sunday - right?). The wallet is key - fun stuff to buy!
Buy a catalog and keep notes in it - very helpful.

3. Its in an armoy...any experience in whether shows are warm or cold
temp. wise?

It can get pretty chilly in there. I've stewarded that show several
times, and brrr - especially with the wind we're getting now and are
supposed to have over the weekend. It can also get hot and stuffy.
Layers! A small backpack may be a good idea as a result.

4. I expect that there will be lots of opportunities to purchase breed
memorabilia correct?....are they generally well priced or way over
marked?

Some stuff can be pretty well priced. Some other stuff is relatively
unique. Not much overpriced compared to selling price elsewhere at
least.

5. I've read through the info and nothing is said about limiting
spectators from the grooming area. Is it safe to go into that area or is
it a no-no etiquette wise?...I want to watch but don't want to interfere.

Just don't get in anyone's face and you can watch all you want. Some
folks like to talk to people, some don't. Don't be offended, just
move on.

6. Judging by the timing, layout ect, are shows usually as crowded and
hectic as they appears?

Yes.

7. The first breed I want to see starts at 9 am...how early should you
get to a ring to get a good view? Do they have chairs or is it standing?
What about the Groups and BIS?..how early does one need to be at the ring
to get a good spot?

Standing for the most part. It varies a lot depending on popularity,
but you can usually get a decent view just walking up at ring time.

So far, it seems like all the action I want to see are in rings 1 and 9.
Labs are at 9 am. 10 am are the Curly Coat's and Chessy (in the same
ring), 11 am the FCR, 12:45 the Goldens, 1:45 the Welsh Springers and
2:45 the ESS...and the Groups and BIS begin at 3:30 (how long do the
groups and BIS usually last?)

Well - make sure you're there at 11 for the FCRs as a priority of
course! Groups and BIS usually last about as long as breed. Dog show
superintendants know what they are doing - sporting breeds together
means spectators have an easier time of it! The CCR and CBR probably
have lower entries, so the CBR will just follow the CCR when they are
done.

Any other things you think would be helpful, please feel free to let me
know.
Darby

Be aware that some folks are chummier than others. Don't talk to
people waiting to go in the ring. Don't pet dogs unless they are well
away from the ring and you've asked if they are done and can you pet
them (different people have different ideas about that).


Parking is hell - get there early if you don't want to walk a very
long way. Even better - take the light rail.

--
Janet B
www.bestfriendsdogobedience.com

Janet B wrote:

On Fri, 18 Feb 2005 14:45:14 -0500, Darby Wiggins
wrote:


1. Are the shows generally run on time?

more or less, yes.

2. Since it appears they want to minimize the amount to stuff you bring,
what would you recommend to bring (I'm thinking a small pad of paper and
pen to write things down, water, wallet). Thoughts?

It can get pretty crowded in the armory (you know there are shows
saturday AND sunday - right?). The wallet is key - fun stuff to buy!
Buy a catalog and keep notes in it - very helpful.

Yea, I decided I'd rest up on Sunday and do some homework. So, I'll miss that
show. I'm sure many of the dogs showing Saturday will show again on Sunday.



3. Its in an armoy...any experience in whether shows are warm or cold
temp. wise?

It can get pretty chilly in there. I've stewarded that show several
times, and brrr - especially with the wind we're getting now and are
supposed to have over the weekend. It can also get hot and stuffy.
Layers! A small backpack may be a good idea as a result.

Good. just what I was thinking.



4. I expect that there will be lots of opportunities to purchase breed
memorabilia correct?....are they generally well priced or way over
marked?

Some stuff can be pretty well priced. Some other stuff is relatively
unique. Not much overpriced compared to selling price elsewhere at
least.


Good


5. I've read through the info and nothing is said about limiting
spectators from the grooming area. Is it safe to go into that area or is
it a no-no etiquette wise?...I want to watch but don't want to interfere.

Just don't get in anyone's face and you can watch all you want. Some
folks like to talk to people, some don't. Don't be offended, just
move on.

Good advise..will take it. I'll error on the side of caution.



6. Judging by the timing, layout ect, are shows usually as crowded and
hectic as they appears?

Yes.

7. The first breed I want to see starts at 9 am...how early should you
get to a ring to get a good view? Do they have chairs or is it standing?
What about the Groups and BIS?..how early does one need to be at the ring
to get a good spot?

Standing for the most part. It varies a lot depending on popularity,
but you can usually get a decent view just walking up at ring time.

So far, it seems like all the action I want to see are in rings 1 and 9.
Labs are at 9 am. 10 am are the Curly Coat's and Chessy (in the same
ring), 11 am the FCR, 12:45 the Goldens, 1:45 the Welsh Springers and
2:45 the ESS...and the Groups and BIS begin at 3:30 (how long do the
groups and BIS usually last?)

Well - make sure you're there at 11 for the FCRs as a priority of
course! Groups and BIS usually last about as long as breed. Dog show
superintendants know what they are doing - sporting breeds together
means spectators have an easier time of it! The CCR and CBR probably
have lower entries, so the CBR will just follow the CCR when they are
done.

FCR of course! Actually, I've heard great things about this breed...a well
kept secret. But I'm afraid its #3 on the list...after Goldens and ESS...but
I'll report back. I generally like all the sporting breeds. There are a few in
other categories I may watch but it depends on time...LH Dachshund, Boxer, and
perhaps some of the less popular breeds your less likely to see on the street
(although, dog sitting in DC this past month, I've seen some unusual breeds I
don't normally...PGBV, Newfie, Skye and a Briad. Folks down the street in Arl.
have OES that bark and bark and bark....



Any other things you think would be helpful, please feel free to let me
know.
Darby

Be aware that some folks are chummier than others. Don't talk to
people waiting to go in the ring. Don't pet dogs unless they are well
away from the ring and you've asked if they are done and can you pet
them (different people have different ideas about that).

good...I'll error on the side of caution...



Parking is hell - get there early if you don't want to walk a very
long way. Even better - take the light rail.

hmmm...what do you mean by "light rail"...Amtrack? I'm not familiar with
Baltimore...does it have a Metrorail system? Can you elaborate?

Thanks! I'll share my experience on Monday or whenever I have the
time....looking forward to it!





--
Janet B
www.bestfriendsdogobedience.com

On Fri, 18 Feb 2005 16:00:55 -0500, Darby Wiggins
wrote:


hmmm...what do you mean by "light rail"...Amtrack? I'm not familiar with
Baltimore...does it have a Metrorail system? Can you elaborate?

Thanks! I'll share my experience on Monday or whenever I have the
time....looking forward to it!


The light rail is an above ground system. There is a stop right
across from the Armory.

http://www.mtamaryland.com/services/lightrail/schedule/


Have a good time! I've always liked that show but other canine
commitments get in the way! You'll generally see some dogs that were
at Madison Square Garden this week as well.



--
Janet B
www.bestfriendsdogobedience.com

Thanks...I had no idea there was a rail system...
Darby

Janet B wrote:

On Fri, 18 Feb 2005 16:00:55 -0500, Darby Wiggins
wrote:


hmmm...what do you mean by "light rail"...Amtrack? I'm not familiar with
Baltimore...does it have a Metrorail system? Can you elaborate?

Thanks! I'll share my experience on Monday or whenever I have the
time....looking forward to it!

The light rail is an above ground system. There is a stop right
across from the Armory.

http://www.mtamaryland.com/services/lightrail/schedule/

Have a good time! I've always liked that show but other canine
commitments get in the way! You'll generally see some dogs that were
at Madison Square Garden this week as well.

--
Janet B
www.bestfriendsdogobedience.com

"Darby Wiggins" wrote in message
...
Thanks...I had no idea there was a rail system...

Heh. Most likely because, unlike the DC system, you can't use to get
around the city; there's basically only one line, which runs from the
Northern suburbs to downtown.
It *does*, however, have a stop conveniently across the street from the
Armory... most likely because the Baltimore Opera House, a hospital, and the
MD Institute College of Art are all within two blocks of the intersection.

"Darby Wiggins" wrote in message
...
Couple of questions....I've got my list of breeds, when they show, what
ring ect.

2. Since it appears they want to minimize the amount to stuff you bring,
what would you recommend to bring (I'm thinking a small pad of paper and
pen to write things down, water, wallet). Thoughts?

Good idea, a small backpack type purse might work well. I know that
I always try to take some sort of snack, I just don't like the majority of
the offerings at dog shows/fairs/trials/whatever!

4. I expect that there will be lots of opportunities to purchase breed
memorabilia correct?....are they generally well priced or way over
marked?

It all depends...some places are, some aren't. But, most likely
you'll see stuff that you never knew existed, and how in the heck did
you get along without it until now!? grin

5. I've read through the info and nothing is said about limiting
spectators from the grooming area. Is it safe to go into that area or is
it a no-no etiquette wise?...I want to watch but don't want to interfere.

I always walk through, but usually have friends set-up in there. But,
I don't think it's bad to go in there (no food!), and look around. Watch
what's going on, how people are grooming, sometimes this is
a good opportunity to talk (stick w/ folks in smaller set-ups, the huge ones
are generally pro handlers).

6. Judging by the timing, layout ect, are shows usually as crowded and
hectic as they appears?

Yes, especially if it's a big show.

7. The first breed I want to see starts at 9 am...how early should you
get to a ring to get a good view? Do they have chairs or is it standing?

Most places I've been to have chairs, but I usually stand for the breed
ring stuff (of course, the breeds I watch don't have very large number
either! grin), then by the end of the day if I've stayed for Groups
(I usually don't unless I'm rooting on a friend, since it never fails that
the
Herding group is always last, or next to last!), I watch sitting.

Is your 9 am breed the 1st breed in the ring? If they are, then you'll
want to be there right at 9. BUT, say you've got 3 breeds listed in
ring 1 at 9 am, the Cockers, the English Cockers, and the ESS.
The Cocker has an entry of 18 total, the English Cockers 9, and
finally the ESS with 12. First you have to wait for all of the Cockers
and the English Cockers to finish before they start the ESS.
Next breed in that ring is listed as the oh...the Japanese Chin at 10:20.
Obviously, your ESS is expected to finish by then. So...watch to see
what's in the ring before the breed you want to see, then just keep
checking back so you don't miss them! :-) I've gotten to shows too
late before, only to see the last of the Sheepdogs leaving the ring, it
sucks! :-)

What about the Groups and BIS?..how early does one need to be at the ring
to get a good spot?

Unless it's a really big show, you can usually squish in anytime. I know
the Portland Rose City shows you've got to stake out a spot early, but
it's one of the larger shows in the US (in the top 10, anyway).


So far, it seems like all the action I want to see are in rings 1 and 9.
Labs are at 9 am. 10 am are the Curly Coat's and Chessy (in the same
ring), 11 am the FCR, 12:45 the Goldens, 1:45 the Welsh Springers and
2:45 the ESS...and the Groups and BIS begin at 3:30 (how long do the groups
and BIS usually last?)

It depends...not too terribly long. Usually the superintendent will post
the order in which the Groups will be judged next to their table after
a certain time...sometimes they announce it, but probably after 3pm.

Have a GREAT time...and if you can find someone nice to help
you understand the classes as they're being judged, then you'll
be set. (I read it a dozen times, but until I sat w/ someone who
explained it to me, I was still lost--now I'm practically club reporter
on the local shows! laugh). Dogs first, then bitches, then the Winners in
w/ the finished Champions for BOB.
Shelly & The Boys

Unfortunately, due to some circumstances not in my control, I totally
missed
the show! ARGH!!! I was so prepared!...well, except for the whole light
rail
discovery... I was sitting in my office 2 hours after I was suppose to
leave
work trying to map it out.

However, I did get the logistics down and some good ideas...thanks to
those
that responded. It looks like there are some shows coming up in the not
to
distant future that I will attend. Maybe this time, I can put word out a
bit
sooner and find a companion...turns out one of the volunteers with my ESS

rescue helps with the shows.

I'm dissapointed...but, thanks for all of your help...I'll get to a show
soon.
Darby


Darby Wiggins wrote:

Anyone planning on attending the Annapolis KC show this Saturday? I'm
planning to (If I can get the silly document with all the info to
print!)....

I've got my notes from folks here on talking to exhibitors ect and
hopefully, this will be an enjoyable day...
Darby