I think we all can
agree, the judge is a very important part of a successful show. All judges
should be treated with respect and courtesy. The judge’s name is listed in
the magazines and show catalogs and usually in pre-show publicity efforts. I
believe all judges appreciate all of these and other amenities shown to
them.
At least two other
people are as important as the judge in a bird show, but they receive little
or no credit for their efforts. I refer, of course, to the steward and show
secretary. These folks work very hard in virtual anonymity.
While the judge may
be having breakfast or a second cup of coffee the steward and secretary are
well into their days activities. It is their responsibility to check in and
catalog each entry. The steward must check every exhibitors show entry form
for accuracy. This includes cage tag numbers, the class number, section
number. After checking the form he initials and returns the exhibitors copy
for their records, and turns the show copy over to the secretary. After
sealing the show tags the steward must store the cages according to
division, section, and class for bringing them up to the bench for the
judge’s view. The cages are counted and the tags are again checked for
correct placement. While working with the secretary they determine that the
cages are all accounted for and the class numbers as well as the section,
and division numbers agree with the show tag count. Many times the steward
is interrupted to help novice exhibitors fill out the show tag correctly and
reclassify an improperly cataloged bird. When all of these important and
necessary tasks are finished the steward then must arrange the birds for the
judge. The first class of the first section is placed in random order and as
the judge makes his choices the steward must move the cages as ordered by
the judge. This same procedure is followed through section and division
judging.
At the end of a
sometimes very long day the steward should see that the show cages are
returned to the rightfully owners before he can call it a day.
The show
secretary’s job is equally as important, although less physically demanding.
The secretary must work with the steward when the birds are checked in. The
correct cage number must be recorded and logged according to class, section,
and division. A manual count by class, section, and division must be made
and the count should be the same as the numbers recorded from the entry
forms.
As the judge makes
his selections it is the job of the secretary to record the cage numbers in
the order that the judge decides. When the class winners are returned to the
bench for section judging the secretary should confirm with the judge or the
steward that the proper cage number is being judged.
Most bird clubs
furnish the forms needed to keep the records of entries. The ACS furnishes
the form for the top bench judging. All ACS Judges have these forms and turn
them over to the secretary. The secretary must fill in all of these forms
and double check to assure that all entries are benched at the proper time
and are seen by the judge.
Over my years of
judging I have had the pleasure of working with many very good stewards and
secretaries and they made my judging experiences most enjoyable.I would
never attempt to name them, but, I would like to use this means of
expressing my gratitude to you all. THANKS
