Interview with Kevin Chestnut – Show Chairs Never Sit
What is the name of your show/cluster?
Our show’s name is the Olympia Dog Fanciers Association.
Where are your show(s)/cluster held?
Our show is held in Elma, Washington, at the Greys Harbor County Fairgrounds.
How long have you been Show/Cluster Chair?
I have been the Show Chairman for more than 20 years.
Can you please provide a brief history of your club?
Our show was founded by Florence Goldenberg in the early 1970s.
How are the following accommodated at your show(s)/cluster: Parking; Grooming; Bathing, Hospitality; Vendors; Public Education?
We have two grooming buildings, RV parking with electric hook-ups, and indoor space for vendors. The fairgrounds has a food concession on site for exhibitors.
Does your show/cluster offer the National Owner-Handled Series? Junior Showmanship? 4-6 Month Beginner Puppy? Best Bred-By? Specialties? Supported Entries?
We offer, along with Conformation judging, the National Owner-Handled Series (NOHS) and Junior Showmanship.
How are judging panels determined?
Judging panels are selected from exhibitor recommendations, the show committee, and club members.
One of our biggest problems/challenges is economics. The rising costs of everything is really making it more difficult each year to put a show on.
Who stewards at your show(s)/cluster?
Local stewards are hired by the Chief Ring Steward.
Does your club have an active membership? How are you seeking new members?
One of our biggest problems/challenges is economics. The rising costs of everything is really making it more difficult each year to put a show on. The cost of judges and the cost of the show grounds, plus all the other miscellaneous expenses, are on the rise. Also, because of the rising costs, it is difficult to bring in judges from outside the area who cannot judge two or more Groups.
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