It’s been thirty-one years since Cindy, my wife of twenty five years, purchased our first field bred English Springer Spaniel. Cindy and I reside in Central Pennsylvania along with our children Jessica, Jimmy and our fifteen Springer Spaniels.  I’ve spent most of my life with those wonderful little Springers and time has taught me many lessons, most of all that they’re our companions for life (wow, what a gift). 
  As a young boy, my four brothers and I always hunted ruffed grouse and pheasant with our Springers. I continue today to enjoy upland bird hunting with my family and friends.  The passion for hunting with Springers led to my desire to train them to provide a more enjoyable hunt.
   My field trial career started in September of 1997 in Simsbury, Connecticut.  I met a wonderful Spaniel enthusiast that day by the name of Col. Ray Constabile from Churchville, Maryland.  He has been involved with spaniel field trials since 1945.  Today Ray and I are great friends and his advice and guidance has been key to my success over the years.
  I am deeply honored that so many of my trial competitors have shown the confidence in me to judge the National Open Championship.  I also offer many thanks to those who have afforded me the opportunity to spend time in the field training and developing the knowledge to compete in this sport. 
  I look forward to the opportunity to walk behind the finest dogs and handlers in the United States and Canada.  It’s my distinct pleasure, along with Co-Judge John Leininger, to wish you all the very best of luck at the 2008 National Open Championship.