President's Report

                       
By: Sal Gigante

 

2004 was another outstanding year for The Combine, its Affiliates and the American Domestic Show Flight. I had the distinct honor and great pleasure to judge all of our shows (except the Futurity) plus the National Young Bird Show, The Pageant of Pigeons, The Deep South Classic and The Grand Nationals in Lancaster.

I must say it felt good to be behind the cages on a regular basis and to be able to handle some truly outstanding Domestics. On reflection, I must say that I see great improvement in our breed, not only by Combine members but by talented affiliates across America - not just in New York! Testament to this is John Heppner's beautiful Red Teager Cap Cock that beat all Combine exhibitors at our Fall Show and repeated this feat at the Lancaster National. Congratulations, John! I would be remiss if I failed to mention Carlo Parente who has consistently raised competitive Domestics through the years. My congratulations and thanks to both of these fine breeders.

We have once again initiated our Judging Seminars and have a fine talented group of perspective judges. We will get to see them perform for the first time at our 2005 Young Bird Show. Within this group is Carlo Parente of Florida who will become our second Affiliate Club certified judge.

Although our membership has declined somewhat in the last few years, we still remain strong and united with a talented core of hard-working officers and the very best membership in the fancy. Our Affiliate Clubs in the South and out West are on the upswing due to the strong and dedicated leadership at the top. All in all, the future looks rosy for our club and breed. Our stature in the pigeon fancy remains at the highest level, and we are held in high esteem by our fellow fanciers and major organizations here and abroad. It is no accident that we are often held up as a model for others due to our professionalism and camaraderie.

I would like to thank all our members - Combine and Affiliated - for  their continued support, hard work and dedication. Without them, none of the above would be possible.

On a sad note, this year The Combine lost yet another "Old Timer," George Whately, one of the last founding fathers of our breed. George was a fountain of information, a great judge and a good friend. He will be missed by all.