Hello,
I want to begin by expressing my heartfelt thanks to the esteemed breeders who have entrusted me with the honor of judging the 2026 Futurity/Maturity event. There are truly no words to convey how deeply grateful and humbled I am by this assignment.

I was born into Bassets—quite literally! My mother, Betty Kinslow, a Life Member and the heart behind Kinslow’s Bassets, produced many champions over the years. I cut my infant teeth on the long, velvety ears of our beloved house dog, who patiently sat while I chewed away. I began training and exhibiting Bassets at the young age of 8 and have never looked back.

I continued to show throughout the years until just a few years ago, when my last Basset crossed over the Rainbow Bridge. While no longer in the ring, my commitment to the breed remains as strong as ever.

Over the years, I’ve been involved in nearly every aspect of hosting the BHCA Nationals, including serving as Coordinator for more years than I can count. I’ve also had the privilege of serving multiple terms on the BHCA Board, including most recently as 2nd Vice President. I’ve been a member of BHCA since 1971, receiving my Life Membership in 1996, my 50-year pin in 2021, and marking 55 years this year.

Once again, thank you for this incredible honor. I look forward to seeing the promising future of our breed through the Futurity and witnessing the growth and maturity of others in the Maturity class. What a joy and privilege it is to be a part of it all.

Warmly,
Bev Barringer-Ruggeri

Bev Barringer-Ruggeri
Futurity/Maturity