One more show before Westminster. Rocky and I were both tired and I think Rocky would have preferred to stay in bed. Margaret and I went to the show together. Jim got to stay in bed. It was very crowded at the specialty show. I was hardly paying attention by this time. Rocky showed beautifully as always but we did not do anything. It was nice to see some friends but as soon as we finished up and we went to lunch at the hotel. The rest of the day was spent … [Read more...]
Westminster Diaries, 2014 : The Chihuahua Club of Greater New York Show (Day 1)
February 8, 2014 by
On Saturday and Sunday, The Chihuahua Club of Greater New York held its shows. The entries were big, over forty dogs. Same people, same winners.One of the top winning Chihuahuas of all time was entered as a veteran; GCH Arywen’s Star Kissed Delight. I guess she’s still got it because she managed to win breed. Rocky did make the first cut on Saturday which was exciting. There were some dogs there I have never seen before. The mezzanine floor was very … [Read more...]
Westminster Diaries, 2014 : The Progressive Dog Show
February 7, 2014 by
The Penn Plaza Pavilion at New York’s Hotel Pennsylvania is where the specialty shows are held prior to Westminster. We arrived around 9:30AM for the show. The lobby was already loaded with dogs and bellmen pushing carts overflowing with suitcases and dog supplies. Most people choose to stay at this hotel because the rooms are large and cheap. The hotel is a dump but it is convenient if you are going to the shows there. The Progressive Dog Club is for … [Read more...]
Westminster Diaries, 2014 : Pre-Westminster Activities
February 6, 2014 by
Packing for the dog shows is a nightmare. I can really understand why professional handlers get paid so well. I usually only go to one show at a time. On Westminster weekend, I do four shows in a row. I packed five suits, four pairs of shoes, three pairs of boots, all the other clothes I needed for six nights in the city, dog food, crate, show leads, grooming aids, etc. It goes on and on, and I only have one tiny dog. Most of the high end handlers are … [Read more...]
Pre-Westminster doggie fashion show among big weekend events
January 31, 2014 by
The Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show has always been the second Monday and Tuesday in February. But the fun starts the Friday before. If you are in town you must check out the Pre-Westminster fashion show (for dogs), I guarantee you will have a memorable experience! Dogs and people come dressed to impress and this year the theme is “Royalty”. … [Read more...]
Where to Eat in New York for Westminster Weekend
January 30, 2014 by
The other day I read a post on the Westminster website about the “best restaurants” to eat at if you are staying in NYC for the dog show. This bothered me a little because I had never even heard of any of them. We have been going to Westminster and dining out in NYC for the past fifteen years. So I decided to tell you about my favorite places to eat! The area around Madison Square Garden has quite a few excellent restaurants to choose from. … [Read more...]
Westminster is in Two Weeks, And What Am I Going to Wear?
January 25, 2014 by
When I first started handling show dogs about seven years ago I was taught to always dress well, wear a suit, and never clash with, or “out do” your dog. In other words; the dog is the star, not you! I have always tried to maintain that standard. Recently I saw a post on David Frei’s Facebook page about a media person looking to do a story about the best dressed handlers at Westminster. I thought about all of the show dog handlers I know, most of them … [Read more...]
Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, 2014
January 21, 2014 by
It's that time of year again! The Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show is around the corner! Grand Champion El Grande Rock of Love Bobchi, AKA Rocky is entered and ready to go. This will mark Rocky's third appearance at this famous show, in 2010 Rocky won an Award of Merit. I am proud to say; 2013 was a good year for Rocky and me. He was ranked the #2 Smooth Coat Chihuahua in Pennsylvania and ranked #2 Owner-Handler as well. … [Read more...]
Rocky wins again at Lehigh Valley shows; Finishes year as second ranked Smooth Coat Chihuahua in Pennsylvania
December 18, 2013 by
The Lehigh Valley Kennel Club and The Delaware Water Gap Kennel Club always have their shows around Christmas time. The atmosphere is festive and fun. Unfortunately the entries were very low this year. There were only four Smooth Coat Chihuahuas entered. Rocky won breed both days which was nice. It was very pleasant not to have to travel very far, the shows were ten minutes from my house. The weather was also quite snowy. … [Read more...]
The Valley Forge Kennel Club and a very bad snowstorm
December 9, 2013 by
It was four days before my birthday and I was feeling pretty good about the upcoming Valley Forge Kennel Club Shows. Saturday December 6th was a lovely day, sunny and not too cold. Rocky and I were ready to go. The competition that day looked to me like an easy win for the "Rock Star", but it was not meant to be. The judge who was a very sweet gentleman, commented on how nice Rocky was and then choose the least likely winner, the class bitch over two … [Read more...]
Rocky Wins Again at Back Mountain and Penn Treaty Kennel Clubs
November 19, 2013 by
We were off to Bloomsburg for the Back Mountain Kennel Club shows November 2nd and 3rd, could Rocky keep up his winning streak? Yes indeed, Rocky took breed both days, each was a three point major win. It was a good weekend. It was also great to see some old friends. I am so pleased that Rocky is doing so well. I entered two of the four shows in Oaks, at the expo center, maybe I should have entered the whole weekend. On November 14th at the Penn … [Read more...]
The Harvest Cluster
October 24, 2013 by
The leaves are turning to bright red and gold. The air is crisp and it is time for the shows in Sussex County, N.J. On Saturday, October 12th, I traveled to the beautiful hills of northwest Jersey with my handsome boy Rocky to the Palisades Kennel Club show. It was a glorious fall day! But again the numbers were down. Entries were low for most breeds especially Chihuahuas. Rocky won breed which was good for another grand championship point, that was … [Read more...]
The Blue Mountain Cluster of Dog Shows: Pocono Mountain, Lehigh Valley & Berks County
September 28, 2013 by
The first annual "Blue Mountain Cluster" of dog shows was held Sept. 12th through the 15th. The entries were low again, sign of the times perhaps? Maybe it is just getting too expensive. But there were still enough dogs for the "Rock Star" to gain some points in the ring. The first and second shows were held by the Pocono Mountain Kennel Club. Rocky strutted his stuff quite nicely and took the win on Thursday. Friday he lost to another seasoned veteran. … [Read more...]
Rocky Wins Again The Sussex Hills Kennel Club Dog Show
September 6, 2013 by
Grand Champion El Grande Rock of Love Bob Chi still has it! Rocky took the breed win at The Sussex Hills Kennel Club Dog Show, Sunday, September 1st. I am so happy Rocky is doing well, he really loves to show. There was not a large entry but he still won over the professional handler in the ring, she was not too happy! So proud of the "Rock Star" Next four shows this weekend in Macungie, Pa. Hoping for good things! … [Read more...]
Rocky wins Breed at the Bryn Mawr Kennel Club show
June 17, 2013 by
It was so great to get Rocky back in the ring again. I have not shown him in a year since I was putting all my effort into getting Bill's Grand Championship. Now that Bill is done I am happy to work with my "Rock Star" again. I am so proud of this special dog who is always top notch in the show ring, he always shows so beautifully! I am looking forward to many more shows and wins! Look out everyone, Rocky is back! … [Read more...]
Bill is a new Grand Champion
May 6, 2013 by
Well it took a year but Bill is now GCH Stellar's Master of the Renaissance! On May 5th Bill took the breed win for the final point he needed for his grand championship. Hooray! The shows in May are always fun. Its time to go outside again. The grass is green, the flowers are blooming. The dogs are happy to be in the warm sun. The Trenton Kennel Club show in N.J. is a huge event, with great food and venders and a lot of dogs. It was great to be there. … [Read more...]
Eight Chihuahuas and a Chin
April 25, 2013 by
I live with eight chihuahuas, a Japanese chin and a mutt. As much as the chihuahuas would like to think they run the show, it's simply not true. Yoshi, the chin is boss. I call her; The Benevolent Dictator. Whenever there is a conflict, Yoshi comes to the rescue! Everyone must get along. She does not allow discord. Penny Lane, the mutt loves Yoshi, because she will play with her when the others won't. Chihuahuas are clannish, but not the chin! … [Read more...]
Bill goes to Harrisburg
April 19, 2013 by
The shows in Harrisburg are always fun. Lots of friends show up. This was still true on Sunday April 14th, as we went off to the Mason and Dixon Kennel Club show. Bill was happy to go and happy to play with the other dogs, especially the little bitches! But he was supremely awful for the judge, he did not want to walk or look at the judge. It was, shall we say embarrassing! I was ready to call it quits! However Bill managed to get Best of Opposite, good … [Read more...]
Puppies at the Berks Kennel Club match show
April 8, 2013 by
There is nothing that makes a day brighter than a whole lot of puppies! I went to the Berks Kennel Club match show yesterday. Matches are for puppies. This is where all the pups get to practice in a show ring, it is a competition but no points are awarded. I wish every dog show was this much fun. I got to play with a tiny pomeranian, a little great dane, two akitas that looked like bears, a corgi, japanese chin, and more, Oh it was heaven! I … [Read more...]
A good day for chihuahuas and other dogs
March 30, 2013 by
It was a glorious spring day, a very good day to be a chihuahua. Today all the dogs went outside to lay in the warm sun and sniff the air. Penny wanted to chase a squirrel but she is not allowed since she does not play well with them. We call Penny a "chihuahua mix". The truth is we don't know what she is, but there is some terrier in her for sure. The "real" chihuahuas would never dream of chasing a squirrel, they only chase each other on occasion. … [Read more...]
Bill gets a point in Edison, N.J.
March 23, 2013 by
We went to the New Brunswick Kennel Club show Saturday March 23. Bill was happy to be there because there was a pretty little bitch in heat! He was smitten! He paid little attention to the pleasant male judge and he was chosen as Select Dog for one point. That's fine except a class puppy got Best of Opposite over Mr. Bill. Bill was bored. I'm hoping we can get a much needed win at the next show. I'm getting discouraged! Bill only needs five more points … [Read more...]
Dog Breeding interview on The Dog Show with Julie Forbes
March 21, 2013 by
I had an interesting interview yesterday with Julie Forbes on The Dog Show,. One of the topics we discussed at length was dog breeding in the dog show community. I have met many a breeder in my travels to numerous dog shows. But I am not a breeder and I don't intend to be. This is my choice because I would never be able to part with a puppy, I'm sure! However I must say I respect the breeders I have met who do their best to breed healthy, stable, … [Read more...]
The Dog Show Blues
March 11, 2013 by
I have not been to a show since Westminster, and I'm not missing the scene so much. Perhaps I'm a little burned out. I have realized I just can't compete with the "big dogs" so to speak. I want to get Bill's grand championship, but after that, I don't know. I've come to realize the politics of judging are a little too much sometimes. I'm not part of the in crowd, the ones who cozy up to the right people and go to every show weekend after weekend. I … [Read more...]
‘The Morning Call’ reviews book on insider look at Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show
February 27, 2013 by
South Whitehall woman's book gives insider view of Westminster dog show On Monday morning, Connie Newcomb will be having the time of her life at one of the most prestigious sporting events in the nation — the 137th Annual Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show in New York City. At 9:15 a.m., Connie and Bill, one of her champion Chihuahuas, will prance around a show ring at Pier 92, hoping to convince judges that Bill is the best little guy of his … [Read more...]
Westminster 2013
February 18, 2013 by
We are back home from NYC resting after Westminster. Bill and I made it to all the specialty shows and many parties. We had a blast in NYC. Rocky also joined in the festivities although he was not entered in any shows this year. We enjoyed excellent drinks and meals with family and friends. Our hotel (The Event) was fabulous and very dog friendly. We had a wonderful time. But we didn't win a thing! In fact I felt ignored. I guess I just can't compete … [Read more...]
Seattle Times pets columnist Ranny Green reviews “Dog Show Confidential” for Seattle Kennel Club
February 6, 2013 by
We are so pleased that readers are enjoying our book! The Seattle Kennel Club recently included it in their 'Picks of the Litter.' Ranny Green, a Seattle Times pets columnist and feature writer for three decades, was kind enough to post this review on the Seattle Kennel Club website. Congratulations as well to Mr. Green on his induction into the Dog Writers Association of America's (DWAA) Hall of Fame. The road to Westminster is paved with more potholes … [Read more...]
Two Weeks until Westminster
January 28, 2013 by
Two weeks from today the Toy dogs will be shown at Westminster. There are 33 Chihuahuas entered. Unbelievable! There have never been so many. I am wondering who is going to show up. So many of my friends are not going because of all the changes. No one wants to travel 25 blocks from the hotels across the West end Highway to the piers. I don't either but I only have one little dog. I am really not happy about any of it. Since the show is no longer … [Read more...]
Westminster is almost here!
January 13, 2013 by
The 137th Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show is a month away. Bill and I are looking forward to it. But before Westminster, We will be going to one show in Cape May, New Jersey, Sunday February 3rd. I'm hoping for a major win for Bill. He is so close to his grand championship. We shall see. I will share more news about Westminster soon when I get my final entry information. Things will be different this year! I'll keep you posted! … [Read more...]
Happy Holidays 2012
December 26, 2012 by
It is a rare quiet moment here at the Newcomb compound. All of the dogs are chewing on some new bones. The humans are still sleeping. Christmas was lovely. My kitchen is a disaster, but I don't care. It snowed a little bit on Christmas eve. Bill and Ted had never seen snow before since it did not snow at all last year. Bill loved it and happily chased Yoshi around the deck. Ted dipped one tiny paw in the frozen stuff and wanted no part of it. On to … [Read more...]
Bill wins Breed at the Berks County Show
October 22, 2012 by
It was a long weekend at the Berks County Kennel Club Show. On Sunday September 16th, Bill won Breed under Judge Kniola. The day did not start out well, I locked my keys and Bill in the car. Many thanks to the kind police officer who helped me! I just made it to the show on time. At the shows on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, Bill did not win. The judges gave the win to the professional handler, and I must say I was frustrated. I don't mind losing if … [Read more...]
Bill wins Breed at Sussex Hills
September 2, 2012 by
Sunday, September 2, 2012, the summer is almost over! Off we went to N.J. for the Sussex Hills Kennel Club show. The show was indoors and air-conditioned, which was great because it was hot outside. Bill was pretty good on the table for Mr. Berg who was the judge. He gave Bill a big smile. My little champion walked beautifully and won the breed over a top ranked dog! Go Bill! I'm happy Bill seems to improve with each show and is very relaxed in the … [Read more...]
CH. Stellar’s Master of the Renaissance is ranked number 4 in Pennsylvania!
August 18, 2012 by
I'm so excited to announce that Bill is now ranked number 4 in Grand Championship points in Pennsylvania. We are so proud of our handsome boy. I must say it is fun to have such a special dog to show. Thanks To breeder Sue, for letting me have such a great dog. We are looking forward to upcoming shows, especially the local ones in September. More good things to come I hope! I'll keep you posted! … [Read more...]
Bill wins Breed in Ringoes, N.J.
August 4, 2012 by
The weekend of August 4th I helped my son move to Boston. I had entered Bill at the Hunterdon Hills Kennel Club Show on Sunday. But I couldn't make it to the show because I was still in Boston. My friend Sue agreed to show Bill for me. I was happy he didn't miss the show, (Thanks Sue!) She also happens to be his breeder. Bill won Best of Variety! The entry was small but still another win for Ch. Stellar's Master of the Renaissance. GO BILL!!! … [Read more...]
A Breed Win Over Two Grand Champions for Bill!
July 29, 2012 by
Wow! A good day at the dog show. The Williamsport Dog Training Club held their show in Bloomsburg on Sunday, July 29th. Ring 7, 10:30AM, Bill went into the ring with one other Champion and two Grand Champions, along with the winners dog and bitch. This was a five point Grand Champion major win if he could pull it off. The judge was quite stern and Bill was quite goofy. But Bill moved perfectly. She never smiled but she gave him Breed. He now has 10 … [Read more...]
Best of Opposite for Bill
July 28, 2012 by
On Saturday, July 28th (my anniversary) we were off to the Bloomsburg Fairgrounds for the Lackawanna Kennel Club Show. It was hot, and even though the venue was inside and air-conditioned, it was uncomfortable. I had dressed lightly and was fine. Bill was happy to be with other Chihuahuas and he was fine. The judge was not. The elderly judge was dressed in a heavy suit and was obviously too warm. Just as we got to Best of Variety and the steward … [Read more...]
Another Win for Bill!
July 4, 2012 by
The Bryn Mawr Kennel Club held it's show at Ludwig's Corner in Pennsylvania on June 17th. The judge was very impressed with Bill and gave him the Breed win over two other Specials, (one was a Grand Champion) It was a good day at the dog show! I could not stay for group because it was Father's day and we had plans. I really want to make it to group soon to see what Bill can do. Next time, NO excuses from me, I promise. Our boy Bill continues to … [Read more...]
Stellar’s Master of the Renaissance wins again!
June 10, 2012 by
My newly crowned champion, Bill, (aka Wild Bill) won the breed at The Burlington County Kennel Club Show in New Jersey on Sunday, June 3rd. The day started out cool, but at ring time it was quite hot. Bill didn't mind at all, he loved being outside. He moved like a champ and the judge noticed. Of course he squirmed on the table, but the sweet lady judge said "Don't worry I just need to check his private parts!" The judge loved Bill. He got Best of … [Read more...]
Bill Becomes a Champion!
May 29, 2012 by
The Trenton Kennel Club held their show in West Windsor Township New Jersey. I hoped the major would hold, and finally it did. Bill easily took winners dog, best of winners and best of opposite sex. Bill is now CH. Stellar's Master of the Renaissance at the age of fifteen months. He is getting better with each show. I could tell there were some nervous competitors, Bill is pretty special! I am looking forward to showing him as a champion, I hope for … [Read more...]
Bill gets Best of Winners again
April 13, 2012 by
Bill won again. This time at the Harrisburg Kennel Club show. The event was held at Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex in Harrisburg, PA. Shows ran Friday through Sunday. I only entered Friday because we were visiting family over the weekend to celebrate Greek Easter. There were six dogs entered, enough for a four point major. The major win would make Bill a new champion. So off we went bright and early to the dog show. I hoped Bill would behave. As … [Read more...]
Bill wins five days in a row at York!
March 31, 2012 by
I did something I've never done before, I sent my dog out with a professional handler. With a lot of family events coming up I could not make it to any of the shows in York, Pa. There were five shows from Wednesday March 14 through Sunday March 18th. I was a little nervous to let Bill go, but he was just fine. He is a happy guy who gets along well with other dogs and people. He still needs work on the table, (he hates it!) but he moves beautifully … [Read more...]