Welshies Across the USA Participate in AKC Spring Scurry
The Starter Barks is published quarterly, in March, June, September, and December, and sent to WSSCA members or those who have a subscription. Back issues or extra copies, when available, may be purchased by club members at $5.00 per copy, plus postage. The price per issue for nonmembers is $10.00 per copy, plus postage.
Content Deadline is the 5th of the month prior to publication (ie, February 5 for March issue).
Advertising Deadline is the 10th of the month prior to publication. Submissions should be emailed to: welshspringerspanielclubofamerica.org
WSSCA reserves the right to edit any material submitted, including advertising. More information is available on the WSSCA Facebook page.
The Starter Barks Committee
Robin Sieranski, Chair/Editor in Chief Bayville, NY • (516) 779-2795 robin.sieranski@live.com
Betsie Czeschin, Co-Editor Georgetown, KY • (816) 896-7122 betsie@mac.com
Brenda Palmgren, Co-Editor State College, PA • (814) 574-1039 brenda.palmgren@gmail.com
Jeni Banks, Co-Editor Port Townsend, WA • (773) 818-3227 jeniferbanks@gmail.com
Sandy Roth, Copy Editor State College, PA • (814) 880-4515 fanfaredogs@gmail.com
REPORTS September 2025 2 From the Editor 2 President’s Message
4-6 Secretary’s Report
7-9 AKC Delegate Report
10-13 New Titles
14 Point Totals
15-17 OFA Health Report
49-57 Regional Columns
FEATURES
19-21 AKC Spring Scurry
26-48 National Specialty Wrap-Up
26-27 Judges Comments
28 Weekend At a Glance
29-40 National Specialty Gallery of Winners Gallery
41 Supported Entry Winners Gallery page
42 Hunt Test Recap
43 Tracking Test Recap
44 Obedience & Rally Recap
45-46 The Tenth Iron Welsh Challenge – May 2025 48 The Greenwood Cup Award
UPCOMING EVENTS 3
Opinions expressed herein and facts stated do not necessarily reflect the views of The Welsh Springer Spaniel Club of America, Inc. No part of The Starter Barks may be reproduced or transmitted, in whole or in part, in any form or by any means, without the written permission of the Contributor and the Editor. The Editor, or the Officers, or the Board of Directors of the WSSCA are not responsible for the accuracy of photographs or advertising copy. The Editor reserves the right to edit all material submitted for publication, including advertising. Submission of material constitutes authorization for material to be reproduced in The Starter Barks and on the WSSCA authorized internet web site, www.wssca.com.
On the Cover: The Best of Breed winner (and BOBOH/G1/BIS) at the National Specialty on 5/3/2025, Baloo, GCHS CH ROCKSPRINGS THE BARE NECESSITIES owned by Katherine Goodrich/Rick Berry/ Christina Bunn.
LETTERS
From
the Editor
Happy Autumn! I hope that all of our WSSCA members enjoyed the summer and are looking ahead to the cooler weather and the bright foliage of fall!
This issue of The Starter Barks features coverage of the National Specialty and the surrounding events from Jefferson, WI between May 2-4, 2025. Please refer to the WAAG (aka Weekend At A Glance) for a quick recap of the conformation & sweepstakes winners, and the Gallery of Winners that includes photos from those competitors that supplied them. We have reports covering the Tracking Test, Obedience & Rally, Hunt Test and Iron Welsh competition. We have included multiple candid photos from throughout the specialty weekend. This year we have opted to eliminate printing the full catalog from the National Specialty and the history of Challenge Trophy winners in The Starter Barks. The full catalog from the specialty and the updated Challenge Trophy listings are available on the club website.
In this issue you will also find an article featuring the WSS participants in the AKC Spring Scurry.
President’s Message
Happy Fall!
This issue of The Starter Barks is covering the successful National Specialty that took place May 2-4 in Jefferson, WI. We had some great Wisconsin weather (and some great Wisconsin beer) to enjoy. Many thanks to the Heartland Club for hosting this event.
I’d like to also thank the Dogwood Club for stepping up to host the 2026 National Specialty that will take place in Perry, GA over the weekend of April 10-12, 2026. When regional clubs host the Nationals, it takes a lot of pressure off the WSSCA board and we
By Robin Sieranski robin.sieranski@live.com
For this event, WSS and their humans from across the USA enjoyed walking together, some friendly competition and marked the accomplishment with commemorative medallions! Looks like fun was had by all who participated!
As a quick reminder to WSSCA members, if you have any questions or concerns to raise to the WSSCA board or officers, please reach out via their email contact information as listed in the BOD Contacts page, or to wssca.board@gmail.com. And, if you have need to contact the SB committee (e.g. haven’t received paper issue in mail, questions about advertising, etc.), please contact us directly using our personal contact information listed on page 1 of every issue – we do not regularly monitor the wsscastarterbarks@gmail.com.
We hope you enjoy this issue! Please feel free to share ideas and submissions for future articles!
By Cindy Ford rolyarts@aol.com
really appreciate it. Regional clubs are familiar with what their locations have to offer and can come up with great venues. So, MANY thanks to all of our regional clubs who keep these yearly shows the best they can be.
Speaking of stepping up, I want to personally thank Shannon Gandee for her tireless work and time she commits to Welsh Springer rescue. It’s not an easy job to do but Shannon has excelled in her position as Rescue Coordinator for many years. It takes a person who has a special love for our breed and Shannon has that wonderful quality.
~Cindy
Friendly Reminders for WSSCA Members:
• Update your Contact Information – If you have moved, changed your email address and/ or phone contact information please be sure to provide your updated contact information to Susan Merriken at merriken@goeaston.net
• If you need to send questions or requests to the Officers or BoD – please email us by using the Contact Us button on the club website, or, email directly to wssca.board@gmail.com. Direct contact information for the Officers and BoD members are always listed on the last page of every issue of The Starter Barks
• If you need to send questions or requests to The Starter Barks Committee, or if you have ideas for articles or wish to submit a relevant article for an upcoming issue of The Starter Barks - please email your questions/ideas to us individually at the contact information that appears on page 1 of every issue of The Starter Barks. NOTE: We do not always monitor the wsscastarterbarks@ gmail.com address except when we are expecting to receive article or advertisement submissions.
• Opt-in for Email notifications – If you have not already agreed to email notifications, please contact wssca.board@gmail.com to opt-in.
• 2026 WSSCA National – the most up-to-date information about the upcoming 2026 National is available on the website. Please check there often to learn about new updates and activities for the Specialty weekend.
UPCOMING
EVENTS 2025-26
October 25, 2025 – Greater Chesapeake WSSC to host Supported Entry with Sweepstakes in Doswell, VA.
November 1-2, 2025 – Dogwood WSSC to host a 2-day Spaniel Hunt Test at Jordan Farm in Greensboro, GA.
January 2, 2026 – Golden State WSSC to hold a Specialty Show (in their capacity as a licensed Specialty Club) without Sweepstakes in Indio, CA
January 10, 2026 –Dogwood WSSC to host WSSCA Specialty in conjunction with American Spaniel Club in Knoxvillle, TN Greater Chesapeake WSSC to support the Sweepstakes for the regular American Spaniel Club show in Knoxville, TN
February 28, 2026 – Greater Chesapeake WSSC to host a Supported Entry (no Sweepstakes) in conjunction with Maryland Sporting Dog Association in West Friendship, MD
April 4, 2026 - Pacific Northwest Welsh Springer Spaniel Club to host Supported Entry in conjunction with Chintimi Kennel Club, Albany, OR
April 10-12, 2026 – Dogwood WSSC to host Supported Entries 4/10-11 and National Specialty with Sweepstakes on 4/12 in Perry, GA.
Secretary’s Report QUARTERLY REPORTS
Welsh Springer Spaniel Club of America
June 8, 2025 Board Meeting Minutes
CALL TO ORDER
This telephonic meeting was called to order at 7:32 PM by WSSCA President Cindy Ford. Officers and Board members participating in the meeting were: Lili Apollos, Cindy Ford, Beverly Garaux, Ron Gratz, Wendy Jordan, Susan Merriken, Aki Pampush, Sherry Patterson, Robin Sieranski, Richard Thompson, and Carla Vooris. Also attending was AKC Delegate Richard Rohrbacher.
MINUTES
Recording Secretary Aki Pampush reported that the minutes of the March 9 and March 13 meetings were approved electronically and have been submitted to The Starter Barks for publication and have also been posted on the WSSCA website.
REPORTS
Report of the President
President Cindy Ford reported that earlier in the week WSSCA Rescue Coordinator Shannon Gandee had been notified about a possible Welshie in a shelter in Philadelphia. The dog is believed to be a Welsh Springer, breeder unknown. The dog was taken into foster care by a WSSCA member and appears to be doing well.
Report of the Vice President
Vice President Wendy Jordan reported that she has submitted the annual US WSS report to the breed club magazine of Great Britain.
Report of the Corresponding Secretary
Nothing to report.
Report of the Recording Secretary
Aki Pampush reported that on April 30, 2025, the Board voted via email approving a motion by Cindy Ford to retire the Ron Mengel Bred By Exhibitor Award. This motion was made in response to a request from Susan Mengel, who sponsored the award, that she would like to retire Award. The motion noted the
By Aki Pampush
award was created in 2009 shortly after Ron passed. It was sponsored by Sandy River Welsh Springers in Ron's memory. The trophy base is full, and it is not possible to do anything else with its size and weight. The trophy will be returned to Susan Mengel.
Report of the Treasurer
Susan Merriken reported following:
• The General Fund has a current balance of $12,136.06.
• The WSSCA Donor Advised Fund had a balance of $19,079 as of March 31, 2025.
• Annual dues renewals were sent out electronically and by mail on June 1. As of the meeting date, 64 members and 2 affiliate club renewals have already been received.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
Report from the Junior Coordinator Junior Coordinator Brooke Thompson reported on a change in AKC policies with respect to Junior events at designated and concurrent (not independent) national specialties. A breed club having a national specialty in conjunction with an All-Breed show may host a “Junior Showcase (per AKC policy)” for Juniors showing their breed, which also permits the Juniors to show in All-Breed Juniors at that show. Information about Junior events needs to be on the AKC application for the National Specialty. Taking advantage of this provision would further the Club’s goal of supporting and encouraging opportunities for Juniors and it is important for host clubs to be aware of the requirements. Any questions should be directed at Brooke Thompson.
Report from the Starter Barks Committee
Starter Barks Committee Chair Robin Sieranski reported that to date no one has volunteered to assume the SB publishing duties previously handled by Brenda Palmgren. As previously approved by the WSSCA Board, the publishing work for the March issues was outsourced to the firm that also prints and mails the SB and she is proceeding to work with them on the June issue.
QUARTERLY REPORTS
Report from the AKC Delegate
AKC Delegate Richard Rohrbacher reported the following items on the agenda for the May 9-10th AKC Delegates meeting that he thought would be of specific interest to WSSCA.
A. A vote on the proposed amendment to Article XI, Section 9 of the Charter and Bylaws of The American Kennel Club, which adds language to indicate the requirement of the President to obtain the advice and the consent of the Board of Directors prior to appointing an Executive Vice President, Vice President or Assistant Vice President. Mr. Rohrbacher noted that there had been a significant expansion in the number of Vice President positions in recent years and he felt that some oversight by the AKC Board was appropriate.
B. A vote on an amendment to the AKC Bylaws to change the time period so that a Board member must remain off the Board before being eligible to run again from one year to four years.
C. The meeting will also include a Town Hall Meeting for the AKC Board of Directors & Staff Discuss Proposed Event Service Fee Increases. Currently, the event service fee is $3.00, and the proposed increase would be $1.50 to $4.50, a 50% increase.
D. The 2025 National Parent Club Canine Health Conference, August 7–9 in Durham, NC.
MEMBERSHIP APPLICATIONS
Cindy Ford made a motion to ratify the prior approval by email of the following membership applications:
• Richard Lewis of Selah, Washington
• Leshnover Family (Bennet, John and Kathryn) of Fleming Island, Florida
• Randi Kremian- Peotone, Illinois
• David Russell of Milwaukee, Wisconsin
• Caiden Thompson of Rainier, Washington, added as a Junior member.
The motion was seconded by Wendy Jordan. Voting Aye: Lili Apollos, Cindy Ford, Beverly Garaux, Ron Gratz, Wendy Jordan, Susan Merriken, Aki Pampush, Sherry Patterson, Robin Sieranski, Richard
Thompson, and Carla Vooris. Voting No, no one. Abstaining, no one. The motion was approved. The Board is pleased to welcome the new members to WSSCA.
Carla Vooris reported to the Board on the following new Starter Barks subscribers.
• Wayne & Ellen Graber of Jackson, New Jersey
• Sandra Casey of Rapid City, South Dakota
• Jan Crouter of Walla Walla, Washington
• Debby Goetchius of Gladstone, New Jersey
• Karen Olsen of Rapid City, South Dakota
OLD BUSINESS
A. Wendy Jordan reported that she had found a firm that could repair the glass in the Maud Earl artwork that had been donated to WSSCA. She will be taking the picture to the shop to inquire about the cost of the repair and if reasonable (relative to the value of the artwork), she would have it repaired so the Club could proceed with plans to auction it to raise funds for the Club.
NEW BUSINESS
A. Robin Sieranski reported that she had received correspondence from the daughter of Honorary Member Anne Walton telling her that Ms. Walton was suffering from dementia and was no longer able to read Starter Barks and asked that she be removed from the mailing list. No further action was taken. (Separately, the SB mailing list has been updated to remove Ms. Walton from the distribution.)
B. Lili Apollos made a motion to approve the request from the Dogwood Welsh Springer Spaniel Club of Greater Atlanta (DWSSCGA) to host the 2026 National Specialty April 12, 2026 in Perry, Georgia. Lili Apollos to Chair. Seconded by Wendy Jordan. Voting Aye: Lili Apollos, Beverly Garaux, Ron Gratz, Wendy Jordan, Susan Merriken, Aki Pampush, Sherry Patterson, Robin Sieranski, Richard Thompson, and Carla Vooris. Voting no, no one. Abstaining, no one. Not voting, no one. The motion was approved.
C. Aki Pampush made a motion to approve the request from the Dogwood Welsh Springer
continues on next page
QUARTERLY REPORTS
Spaniel Club of Greater Atlanta (DWSSCGA) to host a two-day Spaniel Hunt Test November 1 and 2, 2025 at Jordan Farm in Greensboro, Georgia. Charlie Trefzger to Chair. Seconded by Beverly Garaux. Voting Aye: Lili Apollos, Beverly Garaux, Ron Gratz, Wendy Jordan, Susan Merriken, Aki Pampush, Sherry Patterson, Robin Sieranski, Richard Thompson, and Carla Vooris. Voting no, no one. Abstaining, no one. Not voting, no one. The motion was approved.
D. Lili Apollos made a motion to approve the request from the Dogwood Welsh Springer Spaniel Club of Greater Atlanta (DWSSCGA) to host a Supported Entry, April 10, 2026 in Perry, Georgia in conjunction with the Valdosta Kennel Club. Lili Apollos to Chair. Seconded by Carla Vooris. Voting Aye: Lili Apollos, Beverly Garaux, Ron Gratz, Wendy Jordan, Susan Merriken, Aki Pampush, Sherry Patterson, Robin Sieranski, Richard Thompson, and Carla Vooris. Voting no, no one. Abstaining, no one. Not voting, no one. The motion was approved.
E. Lili Apollos made a motion to approve the request from the Dogwood Welsh Springer Spaniel Club of Greater Atlanta (DWSSCGA) to host a Supported Entry, April 11, 2026 in Perry, Georgia in conjunction with the Atlanta Kennel Club. Lili Apollos to Chair. Seconded by Wendy Jordan. Voting Aye: Lili Apollos, Beverly Garaux, Ron Gratz, Wendy Jordan, Susan Merriken, Aki Pampush, Sherry Patterson, Robin Sieranski, Richard Thompson, and Carla Vooris. Voting no, no one. Abstaining, no one. Not voting, no one. The motion was approved.
F. Cindy Ford made a motion to adopt a policy that the crystal annual award trophies be paid for from the Trophy Fund rather than the general fund beginning in fiscal 2025. Sherry Patterson seconded the motion. Voting Aye: Lili Apollos, Beverly Garaux, Ron Gratz, Wendy Jordan, Susan Merriken, Aki Pampush, Sherry Patterson, Robin Sieranski, Richard Thompson, and Carla Vooris. Voting no, no one. Abstaining, no one. Not voting, no one. The motion was approved.
G. Aki Pampush made a motion to approve
revised National Specialty Judge Selection and Communications Policies. She reviewed an annotated version of the proposed policies and highlighted the three substantial revisions. One, to expand the candidates to serve as judge liaison to include WSSCA members who are not members of the host club; two, change the voting mechanism from paper ballots to electronic voting only; and three, to use scored voting to determine the rank of the judge candidates and order in which they will be contacted to determine their availability to judge. The motion was seconded by Wendy Jordan. Voting Aye: Lili Apollos, Beverly Garaux, Ron Gratz, Wendy Jordan, Susan Merriken, Aki Pampush, Sherry Patterson, Robin Sieranski, Richard Thompson, and Carla Vooris. Voting no, no one. Abstaining, no one. Not voting, no one. The motion was approved.
H. Cindy Ford discussed the need to review the current level and structure of the membership dues. The finance committee will look at alternative proposals, and member input will be obtained via a survey. Aki Pampush noted that an increase in dues would require a change in the Bylaws. No further action was taken.
I. Cindy Ford reported she had received a request from a member asking WSSCA to apply to the AKC for Welsh Springers to be a “ramp” judged breed, rather than a “ramp optional” breed as it is currently. In the ensuing discussion there appeared to be a consensus in favor of the idea. The topic will be included in a membership survey to be undertaken at a later date. No further action was taken.
ADJOURN
Cindy Ford made a motion to adjourn at 8:57 pm, seconded by Sherry Patterson. Voting Aye: Lili Apollos, Beverly Garaux, Ron Gratz, Wendy Jordan, Susan Merriken, Aki Pampush, Sherry Patterson, Robin Sieranski, Richard Thompson, and Carla Vooris. Voting no, no one. Abstaining, no one. Not voting, no one. The motion was approved.
Respectfully submitted, Aki Pampush, WSSCA Recording Secretary
QUARTERLY REPORTS
AKC Delegate Report 2025
The June Quarterly Delegate meeting was held June 9 – 10.
On June 9, as a member of the Parent Clubs Committee, I attended that meeting in the morning session. The Canine Health Committee meeting was held at the same time as the Parent Clubs Committee.
The Parent Clubs Committee covered topics ranging from the email lists for parent club delegates, the presidents, secretaries, and delegates (PSD) of Parent Clubs, breed rescue groups, the Purebred Preservation (sperm) Bank, Government Relations and legislation at the local, state and federal levels. Also, there were reports on an Independent National Specialty Show Site list, the Pat Laurans “Difference Maker” awards, the AKC Archivist, Breeder Development, Targeted Breeds and Targeted Breed legislation, Stud Dog and Brood Bitch classes BEFORE best of breed at independent national specialty shows, the AKC DNA Bank, and a presentation on strategic planning.
The Pat Laurans Difference Maker Award honorees were announced. The honorees were:
• John Nielsen
• Carrie DeYoung
• Dominic Carota
Peter Piusz gave reports on the following items/issues.
1. PSD (Presidents, Secretaries and Delegate) email list.
2. AKC Rescue Google Group email list
3. AKC Rescue Network
Peter Piusz had a brief report on Parent Club Health Statements. The statements are to be current, on the club’s letterhead and submitted by an officer of the club. The health statement is in three locations on the AKC website:
4. Breed page
5. Bred with HEART page
6. AKC Marketplace
All three should be identical.
By Richard Rohrbacher
Sheila Goffe(AKC Executive Secretary & VP Government Relations) reported on Government Relations work and the types of legislation working through the various state legislatures and the federal government.
• The top 5 issues YTD fall into the following categories:
o Cruelty/ Breeding
o Working Dogs
o Hunting/ Land Use
o Veterinary
o Animal Control
o Other issues make up the remainder.
• Sheila also spoke on the following topics:
o Restrictions on Hobby Breeders – how these laws or regulations impact hobby breeders.
o Breed-specific issues – “Dangerous Dog” legislation and the AKC’s position along with model legislation/ordinances/regulations.
o Restrictions based on Breed Characteristics – legislation based on specific breed characteristics.
o Revised Economic Impact statements –there are now one page tear sheets for each state.
o AKC Government Relations Legislative Advocacy Seminar and Conference in St. Charles, Missouri is to be held June 14, 2025.
Mari-Beth O’Neill (AKC staff) reported on three topics:
• Parent Club to Member Status.
o The Biewer Terrier Club of America has submitted an application to become an AKC Member Club and is to be voted on at the June 2025 Delegate meeting.
o The German Spitz Club of America has been assigned a mentor from the Parent Clubs Committee to work towards full recognition – Richard Rohrbacher.
• Veterinary School Outreach with the AKC.
o For 2025 to date: 8 “Meet the AKC Presentations” have been conducted.
o There were 5 groups of students who visited and toured a dog show.
continues on next page
• Juniors Task Force.
QUARTERLY REPORTS
o The Task Force continues to generate and encourage articles about Juniors. These articles have appeared in AKC publications such as Family Dog, in Parent Club magazines such as the Alaskan Malamute Club of America, and in the dog press such as Showsight.
o AKC continues to work with 4-H groups around the country. AKC will assist where possible, to pair All-Breed Clubs with the nearest 4-H group.
o The committee had success stories of Junior events ranging from art shows, pet parades (one with 50 participants), Best of the Best, Junior Showcases, Look N Learn modules, and educational seminars. The educational seminars ranged from general dog knowledge to canine first aid (compete with filled kit).
Karen Burgess gave a brief report on the Specialty Show Site Committee. The big news was the national specialty show website no longer requires an access number.
Helen Prince reported on two topics.
• The activities of the AKC Archivist: The Archivist has reduced the backlog of requests and correspondence from Parent Clubs. 2025 is to be devoted to responding to all requests from Parent Clubs.
• Breeder Development Committee. The 2024 Eddy awards were stated:
o Otterhound Club of America,
o Welsh Terrier Club of America,
o Staffordshire Bull Terrier Club of America,
o America Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Club of America,
o Siberian Husky Club of America,
o English Cocker Spaniel Club of America,
o Leonberger Club of America, and
o Golden Retriever Club of America
o Dachshund Club of America received special recognition for their PowerPoint presentation on Dachshunds.
Nominations for 2025 will be solicited after June 2025. The solicitation will be sent to all Presidents, Secretaries, and Delegates.
Katie Campbell is working with the AKC on a Top Breeder Video Interview Program. Katie is also developing a “Legacy Breeder” video program for Parent Clubs.
Doug Johnson and Fran Stephens are working on a program to lease bitches to Juniors to develop future breeders. Katie Campbell and Doug Johnson are working on developing a Leasing Contract. The hardest part is developing the appropriate language for the contract.
Stud Dog and Brood Bitch Classes at Specialty Shows:
• For National Breed Clubs that designate the breed judging at All-Breed shows to be their National Specialty, the brood bitch and stud dog classes are considered non-regular classes held after Best of Breed judging.
• For Independent National Specialties the brood bitch and stud dog classes can be held separately as either special classes or prior to Best of Breed judging.
There were other topics on Pedigree Databases, Breeder Education materials from the AKC, Theriogenology students being paired with breeders, and other topics.
Claire Wiley spoke about the AKC DNA Bank.
Dr. Charles Garvin gave an update on the AKC Purebred Preservation Bank (PPB). His update focused mainly on individual donations that have been made to the PPB.
Peter Piusz and Karen Burgess spoke about a Parent Clubs Conference. A survey was sent out to the PSD list. There were 87 responses. The most frequently cited issues were membership, finances and fundraising, mentoring of new breeders, exhibitors, members, and succession planning. It has not been decided if this conference will be in-person or via teleconference.
Tim Ufkes gave a presentation on how his local allbreed club is addressing the issues facing his club and possible solutions. The issues facing his local
QUARTERLY REPORTS
all-breed club are the issues facing all Parent Clubs, local specialty clubs and local all-breed clubs.
In the afternoon I attended the All-Breed Clubs Committee meeting that the Parent Clubs Committee would never approach as this committee is focused entirely on issues related to local all-breed clubs.
June 10th was the Quarterly Delegate meeting The following topics were covered:
New AKC President and CEO, Gina DiNardo presided over her first meeting. There was a tribute to the immediate past President and CEO Dennis Sprung.
The Biewer Terrier Club of America applied and was voted a member of the AKC.
There was a vote on the amendment to Article XI, Section 9 of the Charter and Bylaws of The American Kennel Club, which adds verbiage to indicate the requirement of the President to obtain the advice and the consent of the Board of Directors prior to appointing an Executive Vice President, Vice President or Assistant Vice President. There was a two-thirds vote in the affirmative and the amendment was adopted without any amendments.
The following six (6) items were read and will be voted on at the September Delegate Meeting:
• An amendment is to Article IV, Section 5 of the Charter and Bylaws of The American Kennel Club, which reduces the requirement to publish CLUB candidate information in the AKC Gazette from twice to once before consideration by the AKC Board of Directors.
• An amendment is to Article VI, Section 4 of the Charter and Bylaws of The American Kennel Club, which reduces the requirement to publish DELEGATE candidate information in the AKC Gazette from twice to once before consideration by the AKC Board of Directors.
• An amendment is to Article VII, Section 1 of the Charter and Bylaws of The American Kennel Club, which changes the time period that a Board member must remain off the Board before being eligible to run again from one year to four years.
• An amendment is to Article XIV, Section 1 of the Charter and Bylaws of The American Kennel Club, which adds verbiage to address that a fee is required to be submitted to the event-giving club when a complaint is filed at an AKC event.
• An amendment is to Article XVIII, Section 2 of the Charter and Bylaws of The American Kennel Club, which removes the requirement that notice of meetings be made by postal mail, allowing for email notice in accord with New York’s Not-forProfit Corporation (NPC) Law §605.
• An amendment is to Chapter 6, Section 2 of the Rules Applying to Dog Shows – Premium Lists and Closing of Entries, which modifies the required information published in premium lists to when any specialty club chooses not to offer the three-point major to the Reserve Winners when the number of dogs competing in a sex is twice the number required for a five-point major.
There were no questions or discussion on any of the proposed amendments.
At the September Delegate meeting there will be elections for expiring terms and filling vacancies on the Delegate Standing Committees.
• All-Breed Clubs Committee – 4 three-year terms
• Bylaws Committee – 4 three-year terms and 1 one-year term
• Canine Health Committee – 4 three-year terms
• Companion Events Committee – 4 three-year terms
• Delegate Advocacy and Advancement Committee – 4 three-year terms
• Dog Show Rules Committee – 4 three-year terms
• Field Trial & Hunting Test Events Committee – 4 three-year terms
• Herding, Earthdog, Coursing and Scent Work Events Committee – 4 three-year terms 1 twoyear term and 1 one-year term
• Parent Clubs Committee – 4 three-year terms and 1 two-year term
• Perspectives Editorial Staff – 6 two-year terms and 1 one-year term
I will be running for another term on the Parent Clubs Committee.
• CH Clussexx A Sign Of Things To Come (B) owned by Douglas A Johnson & Jamie Hubbard & Antoinelle Vulpis
• CH Fox River Sunshiney Days (B) owned by Correne Johnson & Andrea M Pease & Benjamin Johnson
• CH Up North's Frozen Asset CD PCD BN (D) owned by Deborah D Sackrison & James Sackrison
• CH Wyld Wynd's Places To Go (B) owned by Deb Wood
• CH Hartsage-Windywood Wind In The Willows (B) owned by Eric C Hartelius D.V.M. & Rebecca Bradley & Christine Bradley
• CH Rocksprings All The Small Things (B) owned by Amanda York & Katherine Goodrich & Christina Bunn & Joe York
GRAND CHAMPION
• GCH CH Renascent Drops Of Jupiter FDC CGC (B) owned by Diane Grayson
GRAND CHAMPION BRONZE
• GCHB CH Five Star Cocktails At Farhill (B) owned by Wendy Jordan & Margaret Hilliard
• GCHB CH Stonecroft Stay Magical JH (D) owned by Betsie Czeschin & Erin L Miller & Lili Apollos
• GCHB CH Hartsage Deko's Victoria Elizabeth (B) owned by Debora Quick & Roy Pasko
GRAND CHAMPION SILVER
• GCHS CH Fairwinds Seas The Bay BN ACT1 ACT1J TKI (D) owned by Martha Perkins & Elizabeth Holmes
GRAND CHAMPION GOLD
• GCHG CH Windywood Rooney Brenin Kirkland (D) owned by Mrs. Brenda S Kirkland & Mr. Kevin R Kirkland
COMPANION DOG
• CH Wynayrs On The Spot CD BN RI THD CGC TKI (D) owned by Diane Whipple & Ron Whipple
• CH Rolyart's Party On At Redstone CD BN RI BCAT CGC TKI (B) owned by Donna Stebbins & Cindy Ford & Shelley Traylor
RALLY NOVICE
• Eye Of The Storm @ Painted Sky Farms RN (D) owned by Norah Elstner & Sharon Sherwood
• GCHS CH Fairwinds Seas The Bay BN RN ACT1 ACT1J TKI (D) owned by Martha Perkins & Elizabeth Holmes
• CH Fireside's Rocksprings Prancer RN CGC (D) owned by Peg Nelson & Kit Goodrich & Dave Nelson
• Fox River Honoring The Legacy RN CGC TKN (D) owned by Lynne Harrison & Andrea M Pease & Thomas Harrison
• Springdale's My Wish Came True RN TKA (B) owned by Bryn Spilker & Lisa Davies
• Valley Creek Farm's Rhys RN (D) owned by Mr. Stewart D. Siebell & Sally A. Siebell
RALLY INTERMEDIATE
• Statesman's Fayne And Fortune RI CGC TKA (B) owned by Ms. Lisa Davies & Ms. Bryn Spilker
• Statesman's Flouncy Tigger Girl RI TKA (B) owned by Ms. Lisa Davies & Ms. Bryn Spilker
• Wyndyn Takes One To Know One RI OA AXJ OF SWA (D) owned by Heather Green & George Green
• GCH CH Renascent Clussexx Silver Tokens For Stonecroft RI FDC BCAT ACT1 SCN SIN SEN CGCA CGCU TKN ATT FITB (B) owned by Lilianna Marie Apolloscontinues on next page
QUARTERLY REPORTS
RALLY ADVANCED
• CH Rolyart's Chasing A Dream CD BN GN RA TD SWN SCA SIA CGC TKP (D) owned by Cheryl L Clark & Cindy Ford & Shelley Traylor
• Statesman's Fayne And Fortune RA CGC TKA (B) owned by Ms. Lisa Davies & Ms. Bryn Spilker
• Statesman's Flouncy Tigger Girl RA TKA (B) owned by Ms. Lisa Davies & Ms. Bryn Spilker
• CH Statesman's Red Dragon CD BN RA ACT1J SHDN (D) owned by Norah Elstner
• GCH CH Wyld Wynd's In The Company Of Masters RA SH FDC SCN CGCA TKN ATT (D) owned by Betsie Czeschin & Lili Apollos & Susan Riese
RALLY EXCELLENT
• CH Hollowoak Stocking Stuffer CDX PCD BN RE ACT1 ACT1J (D) owned by Beverly Garaux & Todd Garaux
RALLY ADVANCED EXCELLENT
• Winnie Spot Of Tea CD BN RAE FDC BCAT CGC FTN (B) owned by Michael W Cassidy & Ms. Sally J Nist
RALLY CHOICE
• CH Rolyart's Go Out On A Limb VCD1 PCD BN RM2 RAE RC TDU FDC AXP AJP OFP SWN SCNE SINE SCA SIA SEA SHDN RATS CGCU TKA ATT FTN (B) owned by Merrielle Turnbull & Cindy Ford & Shelley Traylor
-4-6 Month Beginner Puppy -Dock Diving -CGC/Trick Dog/Farm Dog -and more to come!!
-Fast CATS/Coursing Ability
All information and the store can be found on the WSSCA website page as it becomes available: https://welshspringerspanielclubofamerica.org/wssca-2026-national-specialty/ Merchandise will NOT be sold on social media
WSSCA Advertisement
Submitted by Donna Stebbins
FEATURES AKC Spring Scurry
This spring a group of Welsh Springer Spaniel owners around the country came together to do the AKC Spring Scurry! We connected in a Facebook group to support and encourage each other to accomplish the 5K event. We had a great time cheering each other on as we got our 5K’s done. The bonus is that this event can be put towards earning an AKC FIT Dog title.
The AKC FIT Dog program began in January 2023 and has continued to grow in popularity ever since. This program is designed to encourage dogs and their owners to be active together while earning titles. A core component of the AKC FIT DOG program is walking with your dog. It is a great way to improve overall health for both dogs and people, and now walking your dog can put you on the path towards new titles.
Dogs can earn FIT Dog titles at three levels. Bronze with 5 points, Silver with 10 points and Gold with 20 points. These points are earned by completing different fitness activities, from seven categories and worth different points at each title level. The titles are consecutive, so dogs must earn the Bronze title before earning Silver, and so on. When teams have completed enough points to earn a title, the handler can apply for the title.
The AKC FIT DOG Spring Scurry was a virtual 5K (3.1 miles) done with our dogs. The noncompetitive 5K could have been done all at one time, or in smaller segments on multiple days. This allowed everyone (people and dogs) to participate at their own pace. It could be completed as a walk or run, anywhere dogs were welcomed. It started on March 1, 2025 and needed to be completed by June 30, 2025.
10 Welsh Springer Spaniel owners with 21 dogs participated in the 2025 Spring Scurry. Many completed a FIT Dog title as well. Owners were allowed to walk multiple dogs at one time. We are pleased to share our results and photos on the next page.
continues on next page
Here are our results and photo collage:
FEATURES
Franna Pitt and her 3 WSS, Cari, 16 mo, Rowan 8.5-years and Lucy 12.5-years all did the Scurry in Washington State (top left). Dave and their Labrador, Marlin, also joined them (middle left). All 4 used the 5K to earn their Bronze Fit Dog titles.
Janna Cooley, 3 year old Cole and 12-year old Poppy did the Scurry in Southern California (middle 3rd from top). Cole earned his Fit Dog Bronze title using his Fetch Intermediate title and also did the 2024 Turkey Trot. He will be working towards his Silver title with the Golden State Welsh Springer Spaniel Club, which is an AKC Fit Dog Club. They had a FIT walk in Carmel in July as part of the supported entry weekend at the Del Monte KC show!
MaryAnne Brown and 4-year old Miles did the Scurry in Georgia. They worked around the weather for one walk and enjoyed a 1.23 mi walk in the morning after the rain and before the temperatures rose. It was 68 degrees, with 83% humidity, and there were 1000 squirrels out! Needless to say, Miles got more steps in than MaryAnne.
Janice Baxter with Penny, 13-years and Rose, 3-years, did the Scurry in LaVerne California (middle 2nd from top). The girls thought their Spring Scurry medals were very pretty. They both already have their Bronze titles. Rose has her Silver and is using the Scurry for the independent walks in Gold. Penny is using it towards Silver.
Donna Stebbins and 9-year old Valor and 4-year old Sunshine (bottom right) and Ron Whipple and 8.5-year old Spot (middle right) did the Scurry at different State Parks in Minnesota. All 3 earned their Fit Dog Bronze titles. Ron did the most walking as he was foraging for mushrooms while I walked the trails.
Lili Apollos and 4-year old Cwen, did their 5K Scurry in Kentucky and earned Cwen’s Fit Dog Bronze title (top right). Since they have moved to a new home with a smaller yard, it gave them extra motivation to go for a walk!
Irene Vonderahe and 13-year old Mac and 6-year old Kai completed their Spring Scurry in Florida (bottom left). They both already have their Gold Fit Dog titles! This was a great way to keep everyone in great physical shape.
Crystal Nolen did the Scurry with Flirt, 8 mos Shimmer, 1-year, Cheeky, 3-years, Sizzle, 3-years and Tru, 4-years. She and Jason Fleming took walks with 2 of the girls at a time. Sizzle & Tru used their FastCat titles for points and earned their Bronze titles.
Amy Herman, 3-year old Jubilee and 9.5-year old Laurel (top middle) did their Scurry in 2 favorite parks in Berkeley, CA, next to the San Francisco Bay. They enjoy these parks all the time and took the opportunity to use their regular exercise to earn titles. Both girls have Bronze and are working toward their Silver titles.
We all enjoyed connecting via Facebook with other WSS owners to root for and cheer each other on! We are looking forward to future events. It’s a great way to get regular exercise with our dogs.
FEATURES
Rowan & Lucy
Penny & Rose
Sunshine & Valor
Laurel & Jubilee
Poppy & Cole
Cwen
Mac & Kai
Spot
Cari & Marlin
The WSSCA National Specialty 2025
At Jefferson County Fairgrounds in Jefferson, Wisconsin
Hosted by the Heartland Welsh Springer Spaniel Club
By Karen Lyle, Show Chairperson
The members of the Heartland WSSC came together to host the 2025 WSSCA National Specialty. The event was held in the Draft Horse Barn which was dedicated to Welsh Springer Spaniels only – for grooming and the conformation ring. It was nice and convenient to have our own building. The Obedience and Rally rings were adjacent to our building. A Tracking Test was held on Thursday and the Hunt Test was held on Friday. Our Club greatly appreciated all the donations for both trophies and for the raffle. The show went very well in spite of having not one, but two!!! judge changes!!!
Aki Pampush and Susan Merrikan were instrumental in getting the WSSCA ‘Store’ set up. It was a great way for members to sign up for the banquet and shirts as well as offer a donation for trophies.
Karen Lyle and Heather Green co-chaired the event. Karen took care of trophies, rosettes and building arrangements. Heather ran the raffle with Alyssa Forsyth. Alyssa is newly married and her husband, Cully, was introduced to the world of dog shows (we believe they are still married! :-) ) Heather also set up the Ruffland crate raffle which was a success.
Kelli Zellmer not only was our Sweepstakes Judge, but she handled organizing trophies as well as setting up the banquet room and the hospitality bags. The hospitality bags were extra ‘sweet’, with dog treats, chocolates and wine! Way to go, Kelli!!!
Jennifer and Morgan Clark handled all the food reservations. The box lunches were delivered to the show for convenience. The banquet was held at a nearby bar & grill and a huge selection of appetizers
were served. There was plenty of seating, tables and food! Our judge, Thomas Nesbitt attended and gave a brief synopsis of his judging assignment.
Karen Peckham handled the logo design and made sure that all the T-shirts and sweatshirts were ordered, delivered and ready for pick-up on the day of the show. The design was very cute and we had many compliments on it.
Deb Sackrison was the Obedience/Rally Chair. Lisa Juday was the Hunt Test chair. Hans Muessig was the Tracking Test chair. Andrea Pease was the Iron Welsh Chair. Their reports can be found elsewhere in the newsletter.
Penny Harris created another awesome Heartland yearbook!!! It turned out really nice and was distributed at the show.
As you know, it takes a lot of effort and coordination to host the National. Thanks to everyone who contributed in some way to make the 2025 WSSCA National Specialty a success.
Karen Lyle Show Chair
Scenes from Around the Ring
Sweepstakes - Judge Kelli Zelmer and WSS Sweepstakes
Veteran
continues on next page
WSSCA Grooming from Allison Smith
Sweepstakes - Judge Kelli Zelmer - Susan Merriken and Camden
Venita Aldrich and Andrea Pease
Scenes from Around the Ring
Penny Harris and Jeni
Kim Laird and Marta Stoneman
2025 WSSCA National Specialty - Veterans Class
2025 WSSCA National Specialty - Waiting to enter the ring
Scenes from Around the Ring
025 WSSCA National Specialty - BOB Lineup
Venita w Dogs at 2025 National
Rolex and crew with SD Ribbon
Everest and Spencer Smith
Judges' Comments
Comments on the 2025 Welsh Springer National Specialty from Judge Thomas Nesbitt
It was truly an exciting honor to be asked to Judge the 2025 Welsh Springer Spaniel National Specialty held in conjunction with the Janesville-Beloit Kennel Club All breed shows on May 3rd, 2025. I was particularly pleased to have been provided with the education package from the Parent Club. Said package contained an in-depth analysis of the breed which I found to be very helpful. As a breeder myself, I think clearly written breed standards are essential in maintaining the essence of the breed.
The exhibitors/breeders should be very proud of the quality of the animals which were presented to me at this specialty. While no dog is perfect in all aspects, it is always a pleasure, again as a breeder, to attend the National to see what is out there that one could breed to in order to maintain or improve certain aspects within our own breeding programs.
So, having said this, let me provide you with my overall assessment. We had 61 entries. The first thought that came to me was that overall I was looking at consistency. Size/proportions were moderate and happy temperaments were obvious. I was particularly looking for well angled fronts with adequate depth allowing for heart and lung functions, and I found them. Structurally sound with good muscling. I could picture them working in the field with great endurance.
I did notice a couple of exhibits were a little more square than rectangular but not so much as to be offensive. Toplines were also consistent, with correct slightly arched loins and the prized slightly rounded croups. Let’s talk about movement. One of my pet peeves is the tendency (in all breeds) to move too quickly. In a breed that is largely owner-handled please resist the temptation to race around the ring. Forget what the professional handlers are doing – FAST IS NOT BETTER and please do not tell me you are doing what the judges want. It is up to you to show the judges how a Welsh Springer should move in the field and NOT on a race track. Enough for preaching!!!!
Where some of you need to focus is on rear angulation – find that stud that has correct rear angulation with well developed thighs and nice short hocks that are, in fact, perpendicular to the ground. Getting those good rears is not easy and can take several generations of select breeding to achieve what is required in these working dogs. Heads are easier to fix than fronts and rears and I did like what I was seeing in head pieces. Lovely spaniel expression with correct eye size and color.
Overall, I think your breed is in good shape – you should be proud of yourselves but please stay true to your breed standard – we can always improve and with the enthusiasm you all showed in the ring I believe the future for your beloved Welsh Springer Spaniels is bright.
Thanks to everyone for a great National Specialty and thanks for accepting to have me as your judge – twas a privilege!!!!
Thomas Nesbitt, Judge
NATIONAL SPECIALTY
Judges' Comments
Comments from the 2025 National Specialty Sweepstakes Judge, Kelli Zellmer
It was such a pleasure to judge Sweeps at the 2025 National. A beautiful field of Welshes was presented across all classes which, at the same time, made my job both easy and difficult.
In the puppy classes I was looking for a neck that flowed into the shoulders and topline, point of shoulder, a solid rear, and overall substance while considering their age. In my opinion, all of the puppies had these attributes or were certainly developing them. Since they were all so nice in this regard it came down to all around movement. It was very close between Best of Sweeps and Best of Opposite. In the end, it was my opinion that the male was a little more balanced overall while displaying proper movement.
I love the older Welshes! They have those sweet dark eyes that look deep right into your soul. With the veterans I was looking for a level topline, proper front and rear angulation along with movement. It was impressive to see how these older Welshes were still sound structurally, so again, it came down to movement. Both my final senior Welshes were certainly sound in structure. My final pick showed beautiful effortless movement as she went around the ring and therefore earned my choice as Best Veteran in Sweeps.
Thank you to the Heartland Club for giving me the special honor of judging the breed we all love!!
Respectfully Submitted,
Kelli Zellmer Amherst, Wisconsin
The WAAG - Weekend At a Glance - May 3 & 4
Saturday, May 3, 2025
JANESVILLE-BELOIT KC
WSSCA National Specialty
CONFORMATION RESULTS:
BOB
BOS
WD/BOW
WB
RWD
RWB
Select Dog
Select Bitch
BEST OWNER HANDLER
AOM
AOM
AOM
AOM
AOM
BEST VETERAN
BEST HUNTING DOG
BEST BBE
BEST PUPPY
SWEEPSTAKES RESULTS:
BEST IN SWEEPSTAKES
Judge: Thomas Nesbitt
GCHS CH ROCKSPRINGS THE BARE
NECESSITIES - Group 1 & Best In Show
CH RENASCENT BECAUSE OF A DREAM
Sunday, May 4, 2025
JANESVILLE-BELOIT KC
WSSCA Supported Entry
Judge: Linda Robey
GCHG CH CLUSSEXX ON RED ALERT AT STONECROFT
GCHS CH ROCKSPRINGS THE BARE NECESSITIES
RENASCENT FORTUNE FAVORS THE BOLD RENASCENT FORTUNE FAVORS THE BOLD
RENASCENT CURRAHEE
ROLYART'S ALL THE STARS ALIGNED
STONECROFT CLUSSEXX HE'S A GO GETTER RENASCENT DELIVERING THE CALL
ROLYART'S WATERGATE
GCH CH GREAT EXPECTATIONS
EVERLASTING GOBSTOPPER ACT1
GCHG CH CLUSSEXX ON RED ALERT AT STONECROFT
GCHS CH ROCKSPRINGS THE BARE NECESSITIES
RENASCENT GARLAND OF ROSES
GCH CH STONECROFT STAY MAGICAL JH
CH RENASCENT BECAUSE OF A DREAM
GCHS CH ROCKSPRINGS THE BARE NECESSITIES - OH Group 2
GCHB STONECROFT STAY MAGICAL JH n/a
GCH RENASCENT CLUSSEXX SILVER
TOKENS FOR STONECROFT RN FDC BCAT
ACT1 SCN SIN SEN CGCA CGCU TKN ATT n/a
GCHG MYSTIC ACRES AT CAMDEN YARDS
SWA SCE SIE n/a
GCHB CRYSLEN'S WORTH A MILLION RI TD SCN SIN SEN CGC TKA n/a
GCH CLUSSEXX STONECROFT EMBLEM n/a
GCHG MYSTIC ACRES AT CAMDEN YARDS SWA SCE SIE n/a
GCH WYLD WYND'S IN THE COMPANY OF MASTERS RI SH SCN n/a
RENASCENT GARLAND OF ROSES
WYLD WYND'S THE PERFECT BREAK n/a
RENASCENT FORTUNE FAVORS THE BOLD n/a BEST OF OPPOSITE IN SWEEPSTAKES
BEST VETERAN SWEEPSTAKES
BEST OF OPPOSITE VETERAN SWEEPSTAKES
BEST ALTERED/PERFORMANCE IN SWEEPSTAKES
RENASCENT GARLAND OF ROSES n/a
GCHB ROLYART'S LET'S HAVE A PARTY n/a
GCHB CRYSLEN'S WORTH A MILLION RI TD SCN SIN SEN CGC TKA n/a
CH RENASCENT AS YOU WISH n/a BEST OF OPPOSITE TO BEST PERFORMANCE SWEEPSTAKES
o Award: BEST BRED BY EXHIBITOR & BEST OF OPPOSITE IN SWEEPSTAKES
Registered Name: RENASCENT GARLAND OF ROSES
Call Name: JUDY
By Renascent Be Kind Rewind & Renascent Currahee
Owners: Greer Bassel/Meghen Riese-Bassel
Breeders: Meghen Riese-Bassel/Susan Byrd Doss
o Award: BEST IN ALTERED & PERFORMANCE SWEEPSTAKES
Registered Name: CH RENASCENT AS YOU WISH
Call Name: SOLO
By GCHB Welford’s Jesmond Waterfall & GCH Stonecroft Emblem
Owner: Meghen Riese-Bassel
Breeders: Meghen Riese-Bassel/Douglas Johnson
WSSCA Supported Entry on Sunday, May 4, 2025
Judge: Linda Robey
BOB
GCHG CH Clussexx On Red Alert At Stonecroft
WINNERS DOG/ BEST OF WINNERS
Cedar
Stacey P Blau
BOO
GCHS CH Rocksprings
The Bare Necessities BALOO
Katherine Goodrich/Rick Berry/ Christina Bunn
WD/BOW
Renascent Fortune
Favors The Bold CALEB
Ellen Hughes/Michael Fitzgeorge/ Meghen Riese-Bassel
WB
Rolyart's All The Stars Aligned MATARIKI
Cyndi Deitrick/Cindy Ford/ Shelley Traylor
SD
GCHB CH Stonecroft
Stay Magical JH WYLE
Betsie Czeschin/Lili Apollos/ Erin Miller
SB CH Renascent
Because Of A Dream PANTHER
Meghen Riese-Bassel/Marta Stoneman
WINNERS BITCH
NATIONAL SPECIALTY Hunt Test
By Lisa Juday, Hunt Test Chair
As part of our 2025 National Specialty, we held a special AKC Spaniel Hunting Test with a focus on Welshies at Milford Hills hunting club just outside Jefferson, WI. Twelve dogs were entered, 5 of which were Welshies, and the red and whites were entered in all 3 levels, from Junior to Senior and even Master levels, which is a wonderful thing! For those not familiar, there is a field portion of the test where dogs have to find, flush and retrieve two birds on land, then retrieve a bird from water, and for higher levels they must also find a downed (dead) bird that is hidden in a thicket and a bird on the far shore of a pond, both of which require advanced communication from the owner/handler to the dog so that the dog can be guided from a distance. The test went quite smoothly thanks to the many volunteers and the great judges and gunners on site. For those who were also entered in the Iron Welsh, a qualifying score meant lots of points towards the big ribbons. I want to thank everyone who came out and helped make it happen, especially a huge thanks to Aki Pampush who was the event secretary and really did 90% of the work, and her husband Frank who helped with the layout of the field and other logistic issues. We had a lot of fun and there was a good turnout from volunteers and spectators, including folks who just wanted to watch some Welshies hunt. Welsh Springer Spaniels were created to hunt upland animals, and working in the field with a Welshie is truly a joy. I encourage anyone curious about this original sporting dog event to get out and give it a chance. For information on where you can observe other spaniel hunt tests, check the AKC performance events website and look for events being held near you.
Lisa Juday Chair, 2025 National Specialty Hunt Test
Aki Pampush – Lili Apollos and Bobby
Frank Pampush with Gretchen and Judges Vicki Dahlk and Dawn Shuster
Frank Pampush with Heidi and Judge Vicki Dahlk
Tracking Test Recap
By Hans Muessig, Tracking Test Chair
A near perfect tracking day: cool with moist grass and little breeze. Twig and Merrielle Turnbull finished a TD (Twig is nearly 13 years old!) in fine form as did Boots, a Golden Retriever owned by Barb Mattheis, and Iris, an English Springer owned by Calli Owens and handled by Greg Rowan.
We had 6 entries for the TD/TDX test - including 3 WSS at the Ottawa Field Trial Grounds between Milwaukee and Madison. Three of the four TDs passed; unfortunately, neither of the TDX entrants passed. Thank you to two wonderful judges Nan Cochrane and Becky Johnson! And a huge thank you to all the volunteer tracklayers from WSSCA and several local tracking clubs: Venita Aldrich, Beth Comstock, Cynthis Curran, Peggy Granger, Heather Green, Kim Laird, Kim Petak, Gary Schmidt (flag carrier). Finally, I am eternally grateful to Donna Stebbins, who as Head Tracklayer kept everything running smoothly and preserved my sanity! Applause to all involved!
Tracklaying – Donna Stebbins head tracklayer, Gary Schmidt flags, Peggy Granger tracklayer#2, Judge Nan Cochrane, Judge Becky Johnson
Merrielle Turnbull and TWIG with their TD
NATIONAL SPECIALTY
Obedience & Rally Recap
By Deb Sackrison, Obedience/Rally Chair
We had a great turn out for the Rally trial. There were Welshies showing in many of the different classes. I think everyone qualified, we even saw a 100++ score from Cheryl Clark. Merrille Turnbull took 3rd place in Rally Choice.
Obedience had a smaller showing. Several Welsh were entered in beginner Novice but the walk around the ring was too much for some of them, not to worry, they will learn to snap the head around so not to lose sight of you.
Karen Lyle was High Scoring Welsh in the obedience trial. Her winning score came from the Open B class with a 195.5. Nice job Karen and Tayler! Ron Whipple qualified in Novice with his 3rd leg and new title!
Karen Gaines & Wynn
Karen & Tayler, HIT Winner
The Tenth Iron Welsh Challenge – May 2025
By Andrea Pease, Chair
We celebrated the 10th Iron Welsh Challenge at the 2025 National Specialty in Jefferson, Wisconsin, showcasing the versatility of our breed. The Heartland Club, our host club, supported the competition by offering the following events: hunting, tracking, conformation (including sweeps), obedience and rally. Due to time constraints, we were unable to include the other approved events, such as agility and scent work.
THE COMPETITORS
Eight teams competed in this year’s challenge:
• Bobby – Wyld Wynd’s In The Company of Masters – Betsie Czeschin, Susan Riese, Lili Apollos
• Bryar – Fox River Honoring The Legacy –Lynne and Tom Harrison, Andrea Pease
• Freya – Fox River Pretty Little Lady – Correne and Benjamin Johnson, Andrea Pease
• Gretchen – Rolyart’s Playing Hooky – Frank and Aki Pampush
• Heidi – Brookhaven’s Playing For Keeps –Frank and Aki Pampush
• Moose – Fairwinds Seas The Bay – Martha Perkins, Elizabeth Holmes
• Rolex – Great Expectations Everlasting Gobstopper – Allison Smith
With just one team falling short, the competition had an impressive qualification rate. To qualify, each team needed to compete in at least three different events and pass at least two of them. While it may sound simple, time conflicts often pose challenges. Scoring accommodates these conflicts, and participation points also contribute to the overall score. Fitting all the events into a three-day schedule is a true test of versatility. Competitors need dogs that can seamlessly transition from the field to conformation to obedience in a short time frame.
This year’s competitors demonstrated just that.
THE WINNERS
The title of Iron Welsh of 2025 and the Gold ribbon were awarded to Cwen, handled by Lili Apollos. Bobby, handled by Lili, took home the Silver ribbon, and Gretchen, handled by Frank and Aki Pampush, earned the Bronze. In addition to their ribbons, the winners received a special engraved
Cwen
medal and a stunning trophy. A BIG thank you to our talented Welshie member, Venita Aldrich, who designed and created three beautifully quilted items to commemorate their achievements. All qualifying contenders received a beautiful iron-grey rosette as a recognition of their competitive spirit.
THE EXCITEMENT OF THE CHALLENGE
As is often the case, results were only known after the very last event. This competition was no exception. The rally and obedience rings were busy right until the end of the show, and the results of these events were crucial in determining our top three winners. As a result, the awarding of ribbons and trophies wasn’t revealed to the rest of the showgoers or WSSCA members until it was posted on the website, Facebook, and to The Starter Barks team for highlighting the Iron Welsh Challenge.
LOOKING AHEAD TO 2026
We’re excited to know that the Dogwood Club will be hosting the 2026 National. Start preparing now! Your furry red-and-white teammate could be next year’s champion. We can’t wait to see more talented Welshies compete for the Gold, Silver, and Bronze.
Thank you to everyone for your support of the Iron Welsh Challenge.
Aki, Frank, & Gretchen
Moose with ribbon
ADVERTISEMENT
Gretchen
Gretchen
2025 Iron Welsh Bronze Winner
2025 Iron Welsh Bronze Winner
CH Rolyart's Playing Hooky CD BN RN MHA CGC TKN
CH Rolyart's Playing Hooky CD BN RN MHA CGC TKN
CH Rolyart's It's All About The Timing x CH Rolyart's Ready To Play April 17, 2015
CH Rolyart's It's All About The Timing x CH Rolyart's Ready To Play April 17, 2015
Owned, loved, and handled by Frank & Aki Pampush
Atlanta, Georgia
Owned, loved, and handled by Frank & Aki Pampush
Paid Advertisement
Atlanta, Georgia
AWARDS
The Greenwood Cup Award
The WSSCA Board of Directors is pleased to award Brenda Palmgren with The Greenwood Cup for 2024 in recognition of her service to the Welsh Springer Spaniel Club of America. The award was announced at the Annual Meeting in Jefferson, WI.
REGIONAL COLUMNS
Central States WSSC
Treva Faires trevafaires@gmail.com
Summer is slowly winding down. It has been very wet and stormy for most of the Central States. In spite of the weather, members of Central States Welsh Springers have managed to get to a few shows and have multiple accomplishments in AKC sanctioned activities.
Congratulations to our member Norah Elstner and her Welsh Springer Aidan (CH Statesman’s Red Dragon CD GN BN RA ACTJ HDN SCN) ! Aiden earned his Graduate Novice title and completed two Scent Work element titles. He received his Interior Novice, SIN and his Exterior Novice, SEN. <photo: Aidan w his Grad Novice ribbon>
Norah also proudly reported that Ian (Eye of the Storm @Painted Sky Farms) completed his two Scent Work element titles. He received his Container Novice, SCN and his Interior Novice, SIN.
Central States member Donna Stebbins reported that Sunshine (CH Rolyarts Party on at Redstone, BN RI BCAT CGC) completed her Companion
Dog Title, while they were in upper Iowa. Then one day later, Sunshine got her first Graduate Novice leg.
Donna also shared that Sunshine, Spot (CH Wynsars Spot on BN CD RI CGC TKI ) and Valor (GCH Redstones Just Had to Be Me BN CD GN RE ACT 2 RATS BCAT CGC TKP ) earned their Fit Dog Novice titles.
Central States WSSC sends big Congratulations to all their members who are actively competing! We could not be prouder of all of them!!!
The three Iron Welsh Champions at the 2025 National are three Dogwood members! Congratulations to Gold Cwen (Renascent Clussexx Silver Tokens for Stonecroft) and Lili Apollos; Silver Bobby (Wyld Wynd’s In The Company of Masters), Betsie Czeschin, Lili Apollos, and Susan Riese; and Bronze Gretchen (Rolyart’s Playing Hooky) and Aki and Frank Pampush.
Over the summer Jessie and Terry Blanchard’s Colwyn (GCH Statesman’s Faithful Waters) achieved his NOHS Platinum Level of Achievement. Jessie says they are so proud of Colwyn.
The Pampush’s Heidi (Brookhaven’s Playing for Keeps) finished her Grand Championship at the end of July.
Bobby finished his Barn Hunt Novice and Rally Advanced titles. Keeping his co-owners busy, Bobby does Barn Hunt with Betsie and Rally with Lili. Wyle, Stonecroft Stay Magical, owned by Betsie Czeschin, Lili Apollos and Erin Miller earned several group placements since the National.
Our furthest south member, Cyndi Porter, reports
Betsie Czeschin betsie@mac.com continues on next page
Aidan
REGIONAL COLUMNS
Dogwood WSSC continued
that Reyne, Statesman’s High Water Mark, just got her first Master Scent Work title in Containers. She also got her Advanced Fetch title last weekend and her Excellent Overall Scent Work title this weekend. In May she got her NACSW Nose Work 1 title in Bradenton FL, scoring 4th overall.
Reyne
Reyne
GATEWAY WSSC
Merrielle Turnbull Mtwss53@gmail.com
Several Gateway’ers had fun at the National Specialty. Cheryl Clark and I found a nice AirBnB on a lake which was very relaxing and quiet. Her Sully and my Twig were the only dogs and that worked out so well. I went into the weekend knowing Twig was about to retire from AKC competition. Although she earned her Tracking Dog (TD) title many years ago, she still enjoys tracking so I entered her in the Nationals tracking test. She was the first dog to run and as the judges and I walked up to the start of the track, I said “I have a newly replaced knee and Twig is 12 ½ so we won’t be going fast!” The judges were fine with that and proved to be very patient as Twig took her sweet time to complete the track but found that lovely glove at the end, which is really the best moment you can share with your dog, in my mind. She was a happy girl who knew she did a good thing! We then got to watch Cindy Ford run Presley – a first time for both of them. Presley decided that there were critters on the track that were VERY interesting, but finally gave that up and motored on down the track. In a heartbreaking decision, Presley went to the right instead of the left on the final leg, so didn’t find her glove. But it was a great effort by this new team!
The next day, Twig entered the Rally Choice ring, needing just the final q for the title. (Rally Choice uses the same course as Master but without the jump – great for older dogs!) She again took her time, but finished with q#10 which gave her the RC title. She got two gorgeous New Title ribbons (thank you, Heartland Club!) and lots of love from her Mom. As she winds down her performance career, she is CH Rolyart’s Go Out On A Limb VCD1 PCD BN RM2
RC RAE TD2 TDU FDC AXP AJP OFP SWN
SINE SCNE SCA SIA SEA SHDN RATS CGCU
TKA ATT FTN UKC-CD UKC-RO2 CDSP-CD
CPE-L2. I couldn’t be more proud of this girl!
REGIONAL COLUMNS
As noted above, Cheryl Clark and Sully were also at the National Specialty. Cheryl notes: “Sully had fun at the National getting to see so many red & white dogs! Although he didn’t pass his Tracking Dog Excellent test, I was pleased with his effort. Now the Hunt Test was a different story and best left as a distant memory. He left it all out on the floor in rally advanced though and finished his title with first place (thanks Heartland for the beautiful sparkly title ribbons). There was no rest after the National. He had agility, sniffing and obedience. Finally, an agility title as he completed his third Novice Fast Q! A day of UKC Nose Work gave him his Advanced Interior and Vehicle titles and Superior Container title. We did a day of AKC Scent Work and he finished his Advanced Buried and a leg toward his Advanced Exterior title. The next 2 days the boy showed in obedience and picked up his first two Companion Dog Excellent legs. I think we need a rest!”
Cyndi Deitrick’s Az has been busy in AKC agility, finishing his Novice Standard (and first leg in Open) and Jumpers titles. Good teamwork, Az!
In our previous column, Joan Hardesty talked about driving to Alaska with her two Welshies and wanted to share the rest of the story driving through Canada. Joan says: “My guess that the border agents of Canada and Alaska wouldn’t care to see the dogs’ paperwork was correct. The Canadian guards didn’t ask anything about the dogs and didn’t charge me the optional $25 for 1st dog and $5 for 2nd dog. The US guard did ask if their vaccinations were current, I said yes (he didn’t want to see proof) and just wished me a good summer and sent me on.
However, I forgot a main rule about border crossings: don’t ask questions...
I had several friends who were concerned about my driving alone through Canada, so I asked if I’d be safe. Expecting to hear ‘no problem’, instead I was asked why would Canadians want to hurt me? What had I done that would make them want to hurt me? I said nothing had happened, hadn’t ever had a problem. I also didn’t know where I would stay that night (honestly, I never know because of unplanned things like construction, accidents, weather happen
continues on next page
Twig Az
REGIONAL COLUMNS
Gateway WSSC continued
- there’s always been a safe place to stay somewhere.) I was deemed ‘suspicious’ and they tossed the van. I was allowed to open the van but once they saw the dogs were in crates, I was told to leave. Then I was stupid and asked if they were bored--not a good move. But, instead of 40-50 vehicles waiting to enter Canada, there was only one car ahead of me, and one semi, so I was just curious. And, there were 10-12 agents just standing around inside watching the show. Twenty minutes later, after they spent a long time trying to figure out why one cabinet was removable (if they’d asked I’d have told them it was so a 3rd seat could be installed) I got my keys back. I guess they figured out I really was just an old broad traveling in her dog van. I even said thanks, then spent 20 minutes putting things back together so I could safely drive. The dogs weren’t bothered by anything. All the other Canadians I met were nice, no issues at all. I’ll be smarter on my way back :)!”
My other news is that there’s a new resident at the Farmette: Rolyart’s River Runs Thru It (“Brook”). She is a Peyton/Fig girl from Shelley and Cindy and is sweet and energetic. So far, the older girls are just asking when she’s leaving but I’m hoping they’ll accept that she’s part of the pack soon. Fun times ahead!
Nina, Brook, & Twig
GOLDEN STATE WSSC
Welsh Springer Spaniel Club, Inc. Amy Herman aherman@alhecon.com
Our club held a supported entry during the Del Monte Kennel Club shows in Carmel, CA on July 11-13. Mike King coordinated the show with AKC and Del Monte KC. We had a good entry of 11 dogs two of the days and 12 dogs for the supported entry. Trophies were sponsored by Venita Aldrich, Janice Baxter, Carlotta Glackin, Julie Knell, Gloria Maxon, Robert McDuff, and Sherry Patterson Katherine Dahlstet snapped ringside photos each day, sharing them on our club Facebook page and also on her smugmug site. Full catalog results are posted at infodog.com.
After all events were finished on Saturday, the Welshies went walking! Ten (10) dogs and their owners went on a FIT Dog walk around the track in the obedience area of the showgrounds. We turned many heads, as people wondered why such a large group of beautiful Welshies was gathered on the track. Special thanks to Cathy Crnkovich, club FIT Dog chair, for organizing the walk enjoyed by members Janice Baxter and son Trevor with Penny & Rose, Cathy and son Justin with Clover, Carlotta Glackin and friends with Athena, Amy Herman with Laurel & Jubilee, Mary Holkenbrink with Riley, Robert McDuff and wife Marsha Harris with McDuff, and Natalie Read and husband Alex with Penny & Daniel.
REGIONAL COLUMNS
Thirty-one (31) club members, friends, and family, then gathered at the RV set up to enjoy dinner and camaraderie. Members and others who exhibited or came to be supportive were from Southern California, Northern California, Arizona, Utah, Oregon, and Washington.
Group Dinner
Over in the Rally Novice A ring, Welshies were wellrepresented and a big shout out to Janice Baxter and Rose for taking 2nd place on Friday with a score of 87, and Natalie Read and Penny for taking 1st place on Saturday with a score of 98! On Saturday, Jubilee, Laurel, and Rose qualified, too!
Our club’s next specialty weekend will be at the Empire Polo grounds January 2-5, 2026.
Club members share this:
Debbie Crane shares that Stetson (CH Juniper's Peppersass FCAT RATO DM DS CGCA CGCU) achieved his FCAT title in June. He also had his first qualifying run in scent work containers.
Amy Herman is happy to share that Laurel (GCHS Redsage Hello Sunshine) and Jubilee (CH Juniper’s Redwood Valley Sequoia) have both passed their Odor Recognition Test (ORT) with the National Association of Canine Scent Work (NACSW). Now if they could only find any trials they can enter as they are much less frequent than AKC Scent Work trials! Both girls were also recently awarded their
FITB titles and got their first qualifying Rally Novice run under their belts in mid-July.
Gloria Maxon reports that she has a new puppy named Madison (Bu-Gwyn Over the Rainbow Pot of Gold), who she got from Joan Hamaguchi. Madison is out of Joan’s Holly (CH Fairwinds BuGwyn Inevitable) & Vickie Harshman’s Beacon (GCH Lynlee’s Light in the Darkness RN RATN CGC). Gloria reports that Madison is a very sweet and smart puppy, who loves to play with her half-brother Travis (CH Saga’s Time Traveller BCAT)
And Cathy Crnkovitch reports that her new puppy Clover (A Kiss at the End of the Rainbow), littermate to Gloria’s new girl, has earned her first title, VHMP - Virtual Home Manners.
GREATER CHESAPEAKE
WSSC: News from the Mid-Atlantic Region
Bonnie Wylie bonniwylie@aol.com
Catherine Lee reports that her bred-by bitch, Clarissa, finished her championship at the Pioneer Valley Kennel Club show on August 2. Pending AKC confirmation, she is now CH Destiny’s Winter Wonder. Clarissa’s brother Akoh, Destiny’s Winter Woodland Tales, was Winners Dog the same day. His novice owner, Donna Perry, has put 7 points on Akoh to date. Two more puppies from her litter by GCHG Hartsage Red Angus x GCH Cryslen’s
continues on next page
REGIONAL COLUMNS
Greater Chesapeake WSSC continued HEARTLAND WSSC http://www.HeartlandWSSClub.com
Destiny Don’t Stop Me Now CGC ATT (Farley) are in the ring now. Catherine’s girl Tinker, who will be 11 in November, earned her Rally Advanced title on July 3 and is now CH Rysan’s Requested Just for Destiny RA RATN CGC TKN ATT.
Farley, Clarissa, & Tinker
Eric Hartelius and CH Hartsage Mackenzie, Kenzie, have had a busy and successful summer. During June, July and August at shows in New York and Massachusetts, Kenzie won four BOB two SEL, five BOBOH, four OHG1, one OHG2, OHG3 and OHG4. She was also awarded two Group 4 and two OHBIS.
Karen Lyle welshwynd@gmail.com
Kelli Zellmer kjzellmer@hotmail.com
The 2025 National Specialty hosted by the Heartland WSSC was held on Saturday, May 3, 2025. Thank you to all the donors who supported our National Specialty trophies and to the Heartland membership for putting on a great show!
Pam Gehrke reports that Corrin’s Theodore Ellis RM FCAT CGC FITG (Teddy) had fast feet this spring and received his FCAT and a personal best time.
Heather Green: Wyndyn Takes One to Know One (Angws) RI OA AXJ OF SWA finished his Rally Intermediate title at the WSS Specialty with a 3rd place! We’ve been dabbling in agility and scent work as well, picking up a second Excellent Fast leg (1st place) and another T2B Q, as well as his second Excellent Containers leg (1st place) and first Excellent Interiors leg (4th place). In addition, I’m excited to report we were able to start a tracking class a few months ago, and we are hooked!
Andrea Pease: Well, I didn’t think I had any brags for this issue, but my Tilly surprised me by finishing her Excellent Standard Preferred agility title with a clean run and a first place on August 2nd. So proud
Eric Hartelius & Kenzie
Teddy
REGIONAL COLUMNS
of this girl. She is just a great dog to work with and always gives me her all. We are moving from agility now to tracking and obedience. I just have to keep her busy! GCH CH Fox River Celtic Little Chute BN CD JH TKN FDC AJP AXP CGC FITB SCN WD VCX (Tilly)
Tilly
Correne Johnson reports: We have had a busy summer! Fox River Pretty Little Lady (Freya) CGC TKN FITS DCAT NAJ has earned her NAJ and DCat titles so far this summer. Fox River Sunshiney Days (Seren) BCAT FITB has earned her BCat and FITB.
Lauren and Karen Gaines report: It’s been a busy spring and summer in Wisconsin! Lauren Gaines & Karen Gaines had a beautiful litter of 7 WSS at the end of March - GCHB CH Trystyn’s Inside Information (Willa) was bred to GCHS CH Trystyn’s
Private Label CD JH (Sutton) and produced 6 girls and 1 boy. Withywindle’s Private Information (Fennel) is staying with Lauren, and Withywindle’s Private Party (Daphne) now lives with WSSCA member Lani Fry and Withywindle’s Private Investigator (Hank) with Karen Peckham. We are very excited to see what these puppies do in the future!
At the end of June, once the first litter was settled in their new homes, GCH CH Withywindle’s In The Spotlight (Opal) had a lovely litter of 3 girls sired by GCHB CH Cryslen’s
Worth A Million RI
TD SCN SEN SIN
CGC TKA (Wynn)! They are very active and it’s so much fun watching them learn about the world around them. Opal’s puppies….
In the meantime, Wynn also won an Award of Merit from the 9-11 year Veterans class at the National Specialty. We are so proud of our beautiful boy!
From personal experience, Karen Peckham reports that the recipe of 1 quart of hydrogen peroxide, 1/4 cup of baking soda, and 1 teaspoon of Dawn dish soap works well to remove skunk smell from a dog. Mix it just before you use it (loses effectiveness if mixed in advance and I’ve heard it can explode!), put it on the dog, and let it sit for about 5 minutes, then rinse well.
Submitted by Lani Fry
The NW Club highlight for the quarter was our 2nd Annual Welshie Fun Day! We had ten Welshies and nine humans attend. The Welshies had lots of play time while the humans chatted with each other and learned about Fetch tests, grooming, and Trick
continues on next page
Freya & Seren
REGIONAL COLUMNS
Pacific Northwest WSSC continued
Dog. Many thanks to Cheryl Johnson for hosting, Franna Pitt for sharing her Fetch knowledge, and Sophia for helping us all become better Welshie groomers.
Fun Day Grooming
Fun Day Gathering
Now for club member brags:
Franna Pitt’s young girl Cari, Glen Ceiriog Heartthrob Cariad TKN, had a very successful 4 days at the Spokane Memorial Day shows. She was awarded WB all 4 days with the addition of BOB one day, and BOS another day. These bring her point total to 12, with both majors. She’s getting soooo close to finishing her CH!
Josie, Juniper’s Jubilee Kissing Rainier, continues her scent work success with her human, Jennifer Sarchett. At a recent AKC trial she titled in master
buried and she was one of two and dogs that qualified at Master Buried and came in first place! She also qualified in master exterior and has one more Q and she will have her overall masters title!!
Our club is sponsoring rosettes and prizes at the Richland Kennel Club show in Kennewick, WA on September 27th. And, every Welshie who completes a FastCAT run on Friday or Saturday will get a special prize. We hope to see lots of fun-loving Welshies and their humans at the show – it’s a wonderful show site and we should have lots of Welshie camaraderie (Welshraderie?)!
As always, we love to welcome new members –“show homes” and “pet homes” alike. We can be reached at NWWelshies@gmail.com
ROCKY
NWWelshies@gmail.com Submitted by Kit Goodrich
We have had a busy summer so far. We’ve been working on putting together a nice regional specialty which is coming together nicely.
Jenna Dockweiler finished her bitch, Ribbon, at the Castlerock shows in July, winning BOB one of the days. They have also had fun hiking with the dogs in the mountains.
Amanda York finished her bitch, Echo, and started her grand championship, winning BOB twice and getting an owner handled group placement. This is Amanda’s first Champion Welsh Springer! She is hoping to have her first litter in the fall.
Josie
REGIONAL COLUMNS
Minnow & Ribbon
Kit Goodrich had a beautiful litter of 8 puppies from her Oli and Bay. Four of them are in show homes and we are looking forward to seeing more of them in the future. Her boy, Bay, started his specials career at the shows in Casper, WY, winning best of breed every day, owner handled group one every day and an owner handled BIS as well as placing in the regular group every day. He also competed in Rally for the first time and received 3 perfect scores finishing his Rally Novice title.
Tina Bunn’s daughter, Raegan, started juniors and already has three first places moving her up to the next class level. She also competed in 4-H at the county fair in both Rally and showmanship. She received reserve grand champion in her age group in showmanship.
Deb Wood is back in the show ring after recovering
. He was a challenge for Peg, but they did it!
Peg & Gryff
Kit, Tina and Deb had a great trip to the national. It was a lot of fun seeing old friends and watching all the beautiful dogs that attended. Leah Guertz met us there on her way to visit her parents. She and her welshie, Rally, spent a month visiting Wisconsin and family as well as stopping to cheer us on at the national.
We are looking forward to the regional specialty and hopefully a fun fall picnic and play date with all the dogs.
Luka
Starter Barks Style Guide
Thank you for helping us make Starter Barks as beautiful and consistent as possible. Here are some simple formatting guidelines we ask all those submitting content to follow. We appreciate your cooperation and contributions to Starter Barks!
Resources
• Dictionary: Webster’s Online Dictionary
• We always prefer US spellings (labor, not labour), but most important is to be consistent.
• If you need to consult with a full-length editorial style guide, we ask that you use the Chicago Manual of Style, 18th edition.
Text Guidelines for all content
• Set all text in plain, Garamond, 12-point type, avoiding all extraneous formatting such as bold face, italics, except as detailed below.
• All text shall be submitted as a Word or Google document without embedded images. Images need to be submitted separately, and not embedded within the text document.
• Please check your ad or text carefully as you are responsible for any errors, typos or misspelled names.
• Treatment of dogs’ names: The Starter Barks style for dogs’ names is as follows: Registered Name, owned by Owner’s/Owners’ Name(s). Titles are optional, and it is the responsibility of the submitter to provide AKC Titles in correct sequence as per AKC rules (The Starter Barks committee will not be responsible for incorrect title designations). Call names are optional. The dog’s names are to be in Bold and Italic. The owners’ names are to be set in Bold. Example: Stonecroft Stay Magical (Wyle), owned by Betsie Czeschin, Lily Apollos, and Erin Miller.
• Regional Club Columns:
o Club reports are generally no longer than 500 words; please let us know if you will need significantly more space than this.
o Photos should be limited to three per report; we can sometimes fit in a fourth photo, but there are no guarantees, so please indicate your priorities if submitting more than three images.
o No stacked photos in regional club columns
o Please ensure each photograph is submitted at a medium or high resolution. Images should
be submitted as originals, rather from social media or other online locations, because such photos are generally too low resolution for printing. Please ensure that any photos submitted are free from copyright restrictions.
• Officer and Committee Reports
o Committee Reports generally do not include images or dogs’ names; however, should the need arise, please follow the guidelines provided for Club Reports.
• Feature Articles
o The length of feature articles will vary depending on the topic. Please discuss this with the staff member who contacts you prior to writing your piece.
o Text formatting, image files, and dogs’ names should all follow the text guidelines provided in this document.
• Photos
o Digital photos submitted for print should be in JPEG or PNG format in the highest resolution possible.
o Please identify the photo by naming the file with your lastname and name of the dog or description of the image. i.e. Czeschin_Wyle_ Hunt-training.
• Advertisements
o All ads are to be submitted as photo-ready PDFs, JPEG or WORD document.
o Scaling of ads: Full page,7.5 wide x 9.5 deep; Half page, 7.5 wide x 4.5 deep; Quarter page, 3.5 wide x 5 deep.
o Merely as a reminder, people often include the following information in their advertisements. Of course, what to include is entirely up to you!
• AKC registered name
• Call name
• Titles
• Dog’s date of birth
• Owner’s name and contact information
• Breeder’s name
• Health information
• Anything of special note
Starter Barks Advertising Information
Your advertisements in the Starter Barks help offset the cost of the newsletter and provide a wonderful record of your dog's accomplishments. Please contact the Starter Bark’s Advertising Coordinator if you would like to place an ad and verify availability, or if you have any questions. Color ads are reserved on a first come, first served basis, with reservations accepted three months in advance of the publication date. Payment must be mailed at the time the ad is placed with checks payable to WSSCA, Inc.
Rates
Color only available to WSSCA members
Inside Front Cover
Inside Back Cover
Outside Back Cover
Black & White
Full Page
Half Page
Center Spread (2 pages members only )
New Title or Memorial ( 1/4 -page members only)
$75 N/A
$75 N/A
$100 N/A
$35 $100
$25 $65
$85 N/A
$10 N/A
Information for submitting advertisements or articles
All submissions must be sent to wsscastarterbarks@gmail.com.
Advertisements
Starter Barks Advertising Coordinator
Sally Nist (703) 626-1891 nistsj@hotmail.com
Mailing address for payments: 10325 Remmington Street Summerset, SD 57718
Paypal: wssca.treasurer@gmail.com
1. Ads to be designed: Send typed text and digital photos separately, along with text information as to how you would like it to appear. Scans should be 300 pdi minimum. A proof of your ad will be sent to you before publication.
2. Ads you design: They may be submitted as a pdf, but if you produced it in a word docum ent, please send it along also in case there are errors co be corrected or you w ill be contacted co fix the error and re-send.
3. All advertisem ents are in black and whites except for the color ads on the cover. Color ads should be formatted as full page, scaled to 7.5 wide and 9.75 deep. No bleeds.
4. All ad content is due by the 10th of the month prior to publication date (e.g. for the March issue, all content must be received by February 10th .
Articles and Reports
Articles may be submitted as text in a Word document file If photos are to be included, send as attachments to your text (not embedded in the text). Please let us know if the photo may be cropped or not. Please do not send a pdf of an article unless asked to do so
Photos
Digital photos sent through email should be in JPEG or PNG form at in the highest resolution possible (1 MB). Please identify the photo in the file name w ith your last nam e and name of dog) i.e.: (Palmgren Glory jump)
Other Information
1. C heck your program when creating the pdf so chat the file is not too large Email as an attachment. Scans should be 300 pdi minimum.
2. Scaling of ads: Full page, 7.5 wide x 9.75 deep; Half page, 7.5 wide x 4.5 deep; Quarter page, 3.5 w ide x 5 deep.
3. If you prefer co mail your original photos co be scanned and information for your ad, mail to: Brenda Palm gren, 2016 Chelsea Lane, State College, PA 16801
4. Please check your ad or text carefully as you are responsible for any errors, typos or misspelled names.
5. Please contact Brenda directly if you have any questions: brenda.palmgren@gmail.com or (814) 574-1039.
WSSCA OFFICERS & AKC DELEGATE
President: Cindy Ford, Cantrall, IL (217) 725-7337, rolyarts@aol.com
Ron Gratz, West Liberty, OH (513) 313-7284 - Ron@Gratz.us
Sherry Patterson, Torrance, CA (310)-944-0586, spatte6201@verizon.net
Robin Sieranski, Bayville, NY (516) 779-2795 robin.sieranski@live.com
Richard Thompson, Rainier, WA (253) 509-4040 briarrosewss@yahoo.com
AKC Delegate: Richard Rohrbacher, Sparta, NJ, (973) 903-2679 rysan@outlook.com
WSSCA MEMBERSHIP INFORMATION
Types of Membership
Single (1 Person) U.S. .......... $40
Joint (2 Persons, same household) U.S. $50 (Includes grandfathered Canadian residents)
Junior (U.S. resident under 18, non-voting) .......................... $10
International Members (nonvoting member) ................... $50
Newsletter Subscription Only (Non-Voting Member) U.S. and Canada ................................ $30
Membership applications may be found on-line at: welshspringerspanielclubofamerica.org or, contact the club’s Corresponding Secretary, Carla Vooris mysticacres783@aol.com
Unless otherwise noted, WSSCA members are eligible for club awards
Our club website can be found at: welshspringerspanielclubofamerica.org. It is a great source of information about the club and its operation, including:
• the Welsh Springer Spaniel breed, including Breed Standard
• WSSCA national clubs, regional affiliated clubs, annual awards
• Finding a Welsh Springer Spaniel, including Breeder listing
• Events including Upcoming and Completed
• WSSCA Store where you can purchase items of interest
• And, the Member portal enables authorized members to login with their personal credentials and gain access to additional information that is "for members only"
Contact webmaster at wssca.board@gmail.com to login with a username or password