No one achieves success alone. Many great people have helped me on the path to becoming an Akita breeder and exhibitor. I have been fortunate to have been surrounded by wonderful people who have mentored me in the breed. And, more importantly I have forged many treasured friendships. To those that have welcomed me with open arms, and have guided me on this journey I will be forever grateful. Words are not enough to express my appreciation. Thank-you!
Marianne Southall - Valamar Akitas
It goes without saying that without you I would not be where I am today in the breed. You were warm, welcoming and willing to help from day one and for that I am truly grateful. You have not only been my primary mentor but have grown to be one of my best friends. I cherish all the "dog talks" we share on a daily basis. I am very thankful for the people that you have introduced me to, and the friendships I have been able to develop. You have not only helped me become a more knowledgeable breeder but have also encouraged me, pushed me (and sometimes dragged) me to have the confidence and ability to now show my own dogs.
Words will never be enough to express how much I appreciate everything you have done for me. Thank-you for also being so supportive personally as well; you have helped me keep my head up through some challenging times. I hope we have only begun the journey together in this amazing breed. I look forward to our travels and friendship for years to come!
Allan Marsh - Prodigal Akitas
I remember meeting you for the first time when you were showing your magnificent "Koko", and you have left a lasting impression on me ever since. I am honored to co-own dogs with you, and have you exhibit them on our behalf. You are consistently at the top of the "akita wars" having had the top Akita in the country numerous times. I have every confidence that you will that you will always show the dogs to their utmost potential.
I am thankful for the time that you have taken to mentor me. I will never forget the opportunity that you gave me to join you on my first trip to Westminster and the US National; as I have taken so much away from the time we spend together on those trips. You have not only have been a positive guide and influence in the breed but also personally as well.
Bev Wilkinson - Kawakami Akitas
I am so thankful that you have entrusted me with the care of Legend. He is such a magnificent Akita. He is a constant reminder of the breed type that I hope to maintain. I am also so fortunate to co-own Spirit with yourself, Mike and Marianne. She is such an amazing package, and I hope one day soon you are able to take a puppy back from her.
I am so grateful for the knowledge that you have passed on to Marianne, and that she has now passed down to me. You are one of the few breeders that has been able to stand the test of time and I have so much respect for you. I look so forward to the day that we can finally meet in person!
Ed Wilson - Beardusk Akitas
Thank-you for allowing me to have Porter. Everyone knows how loved and dear he is to me. He exudes the breed type you have possessed for many generations and he has passed those strong genes on to his progeny. Without Porter I would not have had my first BIS winner and I will always be so thankful to you for that!
You have been one of my first friends and mentors in the breed. I look up to your ability to take a dog in the show ring and make him shine. I hope one day I posses a fraction of the skill that you have as a handler. Thank-you for helping me get my start. I value your friendship, and always enjoy the laughs and great times we have together....I hope we share many more!
Liz & Reid Patterson - Nakoma Akitas
Liz & Reid, you are truly two of the most warm, welcoming, sincere and helpful people I have ever met! I remember speaking to Liz years ago when was first starting to get me feet wet in the breed. You were one of the few positive people I interacted with. I have never forgotten our initial conversation and the lasting impression you made on me. You and Reid are both so kind and generous, we would have never made it through the summer without your help with our trailer challenges! I hope to enjoy many summers to come with you both.
You have been such a source of support and encouragement for me and I can't thank you enough for that! I look forward to hopefully one day working with you in our beloved breed!
Dave Osborn - Buckridge Akitas
I remember meeting you for the first time in Syracuse when you were showing your legendary "Raja". You were so kind to sit and chat with me, you were one of the most approachable people I have met in the breed. Since then I have been so fortunate to call you a friend and mentor. I think you are a shining example of a good sportsman and you are one of the most positive people I have ever met! You are an amazing example of what a breeder/owner/handler can accomplish with hard work and dedication.
You have welcomed me into your home on numerous occasions and I am so grateful for the wonderful time I have spent with you and your dogs. I hope to visit again soon, and I look forward to the day where we can work together again!