Mimi Winkler: What did it mean and what does it still mean? A thrill of a lifetime. When Wayne called, I thought it was an imposter. I thought, “Yeah, right. He’s not calling me.” Then as I recognized his voice, I pinched myself, and listened to his every word. Keep it to myself, he said. I wanted to shout it from the rooftops! But I obeyed. Probably one of the only times I’ve actually listened.
Mimi Winkler: I was asked to judge Newfoundland Sweeps. Certainly a step out of the Non-Sporting Group, that’s for sure. I think I drove breeders crazy with question after question, and they were all there to help. As JEC for Bichons for years, I know I can read the Standard… but I wanted the essence of the breed. I wanted to know what makes a Newfie the best it can be. I heard I did a good job. I hope I made the breeders proud. I really hope I made the dogs proud. I will tell you that if I were younger I would have a houseful of this wonderful breed. They are loving, regal, and goofy all at the same time. And, of course, that appeals to me. Then I had the honor of judging a Schipperke Specialty. The quality of these dogs was incredible. I couldn’t go wrong wherever I pointed. I so enjoy judging this breed. I love their sense of self in the way they carry themselves. During pictures, I was told that I put up an entire line or family, so to speak, so that made me feel just wonderful. The third breed was Chows. I was so looking forward to judging them as I had done a specialty in China and had so enjoyed the assignment. Although there were few in number, the quality was lovely and I thank them for showing to me.
Mimi Winkler: To summarize my feelings of this most memorable experience: From the hats, to the outfits, to the dinner, to the shuttle, to the flowers, to the catering, to the stewards, to the golf cart drivers, to the crowds of people, to the atmosphere, and to the dogs… yes, to the dogs and their owners and/or handlers, it was a day I will never forget. And to Wayne, thank you from the bottom of my heart for calling me.
