NARBC Tinley, the recap!
Another NARBC under our belts at kingsnake... I tell you this one may have been smaller than most, but it did seem fairly successful. It was my first show where there were more vendors than booths actually. I was really great to see the bigger folks in the industry come out for the summit meeting and while many tried to make it and were shut out by weather, they were there in spirit.
One thing I love about the shows is the melding of the community. I wish I knew the guy's name, but this was his first show vending. He is a gecko breeder and he was like a child opening their most prized gift. For show veterans this biggest draw to us is the time we get to spend with friends we do not see all the time. Of course for me, Brian Potter running the auction is always a highlight! He actually did an amazing job. It was the largest NARBC auction to date, raising over $50,000.00. Yep that many zeros! While some of it was straight donations, it was an amazing amount towards our mounting costs. That amount is going to be divided between USARK and PIJAC.
The Reptile Law Summit, although planned on a short quick turn around was actually quick successful. It was nice to get everyone together. While I can't go into many specifics above what I blogged about, I can say that this is NOT stopping at pythons and boas. There is further legislation that will effect our community all around, and it isn't just the scary animals. Several proposed legislation was shared with attendees and many will be very shocking to most. So if you think your dog (so to speak) isn't in this fight, let me tell you, you are sorely wrong.
My highlights were actually fairly benign. Both Jeff and I got to hold Mushu, the Chinese Alligator from the Cullen Vivarium. She is a love bug and a great ambassador for the work going on there. I will be getting with Terry soon to get more specific details on his programs and work. I also picked up an adorable Savu Python from Mark and Kim Bell and since I couldn't afford his stunning Blackhead Pythons, I settled with a nice VPI/Laszik line Jungle Carpet Python from Jason Hood. He made me promise to stop drooling over the blackheads.
We had more coverage from this show than any others in the past. Check out our coverage at the below links. Until then I will share a few photos of the weekend for you!
Jeff's interviews live from the Summit
Cindy Steinle live blogging the Summit meeting
To see more photos go here!
A shot from the meeting
Jeff with Mushu
Cindy with Mushu
Gratuitous photo of Cindy's new carpet python.
