In a message dated 12/15/2006 3:39:32 P.M. Pacific Standard Time, GSD0110@xxxxxxx writes: As a newbie, when you go to dog shows, PLEASE, introduce yourself to the old timers. Even (especially) the famous people that you will see. Then in a messaged dated 12/15/06 7:46 PM EST Syd <Elsyd1@xxxxxxx> Writes: Is there some reason she cannot introduce herself to the "lower level" exhibitors also? Does everyone have to go straight to the top? Do not pass go, do not meet nice people who also show and have champions, who also know a little about the breed? Is it any wonder this remains a "good old boys" club? Syd -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- I agree that the "little people" are just as important as the upper echelon and I've made wonderful friends who range from strictly exhibitors/newbies, on up to the "big names." Yes, the "lower level" people often do process valuable knowledge. I have a friend who breeds dogs primarily for therapy work. She knows so much about whelping that it makes my head spin. While my friend's great at her "midwifery" duties, she doesn't know a whole lot about the American lines or conformation showing. This is why I look to the "big names" for learning about pedigrees, putting 2 dogs together so that I won't create a whole litter of pets or worse, and learning the SUBTLE things to look for when evaluating potential studs, brood bitches, show prospects, litters, or a dog in the ring. This is what the "higher level" folks have to offer and this is what newbies and novices need if they expect to breed better dogs and be successful in the show ring. Paulette McGuirt ============================================================================ POST is Copyrighted 2006. All material remains the property of the original author and of GSD Communication, Inc. NO REPRODUCTIONS or FORWARDS of any kind are permitted without prior permission of the original author AND of the Showgsd-l Management. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. ALL PERSONS ARE ON NOTICE THAT THE FORWARDING, REPRODUCTION OR USE IN ANY MANNER OF ANY MATERIAL WHICH APPEARS ON SHOWGSD-L WITHOUT THE EXPRESS PERMISSION OF ALL PARTIES TO THE POST AND THE LIST MANAGEMENT IS EXPRESSLY FORBIDDEN, AND IS A VIOLATION OF LAW. VIOLATORS OF THIS PROHIBITION WILL BE PROSECUTED. For assistance, please contact the List Management at admin@xxxxxxxxxxxx VISIT OUR WEBSITE - www.showgsd.org ============================================================================