The telephone in Tracy, CA, rang sometime in August of 2006. It was AKC officially calling to speak with Bev Verna.

"Oh no!" Bev thought, racking her brain for reasons why AKC might call. "What form did I not fill out correctly?"

The AKC caller, a Mr. Rella, politely asked, "How are you today?" Bev said, "Fine" in a shaky voice.

"I have some news that might make your day better," Mr. Rella said brightly. "You have been chosen Terrier Breeder of the Year!"

Bev describes the moment: "I think I was in shock and said a few dumb things after that!"

Although the exact process of choosing the various Breeders of the Year is unclear, Bev said that she had learned that the AKC Board
is involved and there are certain requirements that needed to be met --such as years of participation and number of champions bred and their quality - both in the show ring and their "get."

Beyond her shock, Bev said, "I am very humbled that I was chosen from the thousands of dedicated breeders out there. We all do the same thing, care for our dogs, research and study to come up with a good breeding, spend sleepless nights awaiting the whelping, and then hover over the litter daily.

After that we agonize over which is the best pup and then devote loads of attention to the one we pick. I think I represent all of us and am very proud to do that."

She continued, "Part of the award criteria was 'success in the show ring' and I would be remiss here if I did not acknowledge my partner of the last ten years, Jerry Weirick. Jerry has been an instrumental part in the success Regency has enjoyed in the ring. I don't think I could have done it without him. He has wonderful hands on a dog and they all love him! He has finished not only many Regency dogs but clients' dogs as well.

At the ceremony, the AKC's Mr. Ron Menaker put a beautiful medallion around each of the seven group awardees' necks and the announcer read a small synopsis about the individuals.

"I remember being so nervous up until then," recalled Bev, "but as Ron slipped the medallion over my head he smiled and winked --that was a real tension reliever! I'd like to think he did that just for me, but most likely all the ladies got that same wink and cute smile!"

A party was held in honor of the award winners that evening. Bev said, "I went to the party with my son and his girlfriend who came down for the presentation. My kennel manager and assistant, Carla Spencer, joined us and we had a great time!"