On November 21, 2007 we had the pleasure of attending the CPHA annual awards formal dinner in Winnipeg, Manitoba. We 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, We 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 we attended the dog show, visiting with friends and later some shopping. The evening came quickly and the big event started with a cocktail hour. We were dressed in our finery and looking forward to an entertaining evening. We sat at a table with Ann McDonaugh, the publisher of Dogs In Canada, Sandy Orford, a fellow 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, 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.

Alana Smith- Wenrick Sportsmanship Award Winner