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October 2009
Director’s Letter Autumn is a season of change. We look back on the activities of the summer and look forward to planning for the upcoming holidays. The same is true in the Government Relations Department. We continue to address state and local legislation as it arises and are beginning to prepare for the 2010 Legislative Sessions and elections.
This issue continues to outline various ways you can help prepare for the upcoming sessions and elections. In addition to becoming a Legislative Liaison and creating or joining an AKC state federation, the Canine Legislation Support Fund (CLSF) and Political Action Committee (PAC) are two distinct opportunities for you or your club to assist our legislative efforts. The CLSF supports the AKC’s work at all levels of government, allowing us to better educate public officials and advocate on behalf of you and other responsible dog owners. The PAC supports the campaigns of dog-friendly candidates, thereby working to ensure your rights are protected in your state legislature.
These two essential programs were developed by Walt Bebout, AKC’s former Director of Canine Legislation. Walt loved dogs and our sport. He felt strongly that you deserved to have a voice in Congress and state legislatures and worked tirelessly to increase the effectiveness of the Government Relations Department and strengthen the voice of responsible dog owners.
On September 11, Walt was killed on his way to judge Best in Show at an event near his home in Kansas City. I will never forget his easy-going manner and his support and mentoring as I took over his role as Director of Government Relations. Since his retirement from the AKC at the end of 2008, Walt has resided in Kansas City, enjoying time with his family and continuing to work on behalf of the dog fancy and responsible dog owners in Kansas. One of his last acts was to help form the new Kansas Federation of Dog Clubs so that Kansans can have a united voice at the state legislature.
Walt will be sorely missed, and we are proud to continue his work in fighting to ensure your voice is heard at all levels of government.
All the best,
Sheila Goffe Director of Government Relations