On November 21, 2007 I had the pleasure
of attending the CPHA annual awards formal dinner
in Winnipeg, Manitoba. I arrived at the airport
early Friday evening and took a quick cab ride
to the Delta Hotel where we met dinner Chairperson
Shannon Scheer as well as Lynda Torrance and Cathy
Cinnamon in the lobby. The dinner was being held
in conjunction with the Northwinds Dog Club All
Breed Shows held in the adjoining Winnipeg Convention
Center, I checked in and went immediately to the
hotel bar for a quick drink and munchies. It was
then off to bed for a welcomed rest.
The next day I attended the dog
show, visiting with friends and later some shopping.
The evening came quickly and the big event started
with a cocktail hour. Dressed in our finery and
looking forward to an entertaining evening, I
sat at a table with Ann McDonaugh, the publisher
of Dogs In Canada, Wendy Anderson, Shih Tzu breederSandy
Orford, another Shih Tzu breeder, her husband
and two teenage daughters as well as long time
friend and ex handler Linda Smith. The room was
decorated in the upcoming Christmas theme and
had a bright and warm feeling created by everything
from the Christmas trees to the detailed table
centerpieces. The creations done by Shannon and
Graeme Burdon complimented the vast array of framed
rosettes and trophies that would be given out
during the evening.
During dinner we were treated to
an impressive slide show of dogs and people, past
and present from across the country accompanied
by music. The prime rib meal with all the condiments
was expertly prepared and presented by the Delta
staff. After opening speeches by Larry Kereluke,
President of Northwinds, Shannon, dinner chairperson
and Allison Foley, CPHA President, the Awards
for # 10 to # 1, as well Wenrick Sportsmanship
Award won by Alana Smith of Calgary, Lifetime
Achievement to Lawrence Anonychuk, Top Junior
Handler, Top Owner Handler, Breeder of Year and
Top Obedience Dog were given out. Master of Ceremonies
duties for the evening were shared by David Marcus
and Yvonne Norton. They kept things moving along
with their humorous antics. After the final presentation
and acceptance speech, most stayed for some additional
partying and dancing. The major sponsors for the
dinner were Nestle Purina and Dogs In Canada.
Congratulations to Shannon Scheer
and the rest of the CPHA for hosting the highlight
of the Canadian Doggie Social Calendar honoring
Canada's Top dogs, their owners, breeders and
handlers.
