The Finishing Touch

Steve developed a kinship with the woodland animals around his home at a young age. By the time he was eight years old, he was able to communicate with dogs on a level that went beyond words to an intuitive understanding of their nature, their needs and their hearts. As Steve grew up, this special gift served to connect him to the dogs in his life for companionship and enjoyment. Once he completed his formal education and moved to the Midwest, it became the basis of an exciting avocation to show dogs in the breed ring. He quickly learned firsthand that the "playing field" for exhibitors was uneven and that many people did not know what judges were looking for during the presentation of their dog. In response, Steve created a system of showing dogs that allows amateurs to compete with the pros on equal footing. In simple terms, he insists that dogs be trained with love and food, never punishment or harsh treatment, and he requires owners/handlers to take a disciplined approach in the conformation training classes he teaches. After twenty years, the results have been the formation of thousands of mutually respectful dog show partnerships that win ribbons. Steve is in demand as an AKC judge known for his impartiality and integrity; he continues to teach classes and lead weekend seminars for kennel clubs around the country-region. He loves his seven dogs which complete his family. Elaine Voci is a popular international speaker, award-winning writer and organizational facilitator based in Fishers, Indiana. She has written for publications ranging from Indianapolis Woman magazine to Earlham College Occasional Paper series, and has served as a contributing writer on numerous international projects, including a series of e-learning articles for SkillSoft Corporation. Her article in Industrial and Commerical Training, Vol. 33, No.5 won the 2002 Highly Commended Award by the Literati Club of London. Her first book normal" BridgeBuilders: Ordinary Women Doing Extraordinary Things available through AuthorHouseMore about Elaine can be found on her website, www.elainevoci.com.