Freeman Ayers was one of the true gentlemen within the sport of dogs. He lived a long and useful life, and his presence at the Welsh Terrier ring was one of the reasons I would go to watch the breed being judged. He always had constructive and positive statements to make about the art of dog shows and early on was a chief enabler of ideas for me to write about and ponder, too! Well into his nineties—just two short years of the century mark—not only will I miss him but I fear his loss leaves a gap which will never be duplicated.
Now then, the latest contretemps with breeders and dog folk generally revolves round the PAWS Act. I have been accused of being wishy-washy in the editorial stand of last week. Some have said I did not take enough of a stand in favor of the bill; others that I took too strong a “pro” stand. Damned if you do, etc.! First, let me say that I think Jim Holt has done a yeoman's job in his various public, and from what I hear, private, presentations about this bill. Furthermore, it is my understanding he has established a working relationship with Santorum and his Staff that will go a long ways in ensuring that AKC will become a major, if not the major, player in the field of dog legislation. I just hope that both his interpretations of the proposed bill and the regulations of it are accurate. If the former statement is achieved-that is, the recognition factor for AKC-then poor Cindy Cook and poorer UKC for attitudes I think are Neanderthal at best. I mean, between Cindy and those within the NAIA who seem to oppose anything at all just because HSUS is in favor, makes me wonder. Just as, I must admit, I don't really trust Ric Santorum in principle either. I don't like the numbers part, and I fret about federal involvement with legitimate American breeders. Nonetheless, practical considerations have to be applied, and the truth of the matter is that between the foreign commercial business and Internet sales practices, the federal government just can't remain silent. This ain't 50 or even 20 years ago. Times have changed and we all have to be realistic about what is going on. Old practices and philosophies and feuds die hard but accommodations must be made to keep current.
Some of you have asked for periodic updates with regard to my annual “Bite Of The Apple” column. Well, on Broadway, certainly “Pillowman” should not be missed, and I wasn't too far off when I suggested “Doubt” when it was at the Manhattan Theatre Club. It, of course, has been moved to Broadway and has received some truly great and deserving awards and recognition. Just last light I was dragged screaming and yelling in protest to the production of “Dirty Rotten Scoundrels.” I'll tell you what—don't miss it! I have not had as much fun at a show since “The Producers.” Funny 'til your side splits. The music is great, too, and it's just a really fun night on Broadway. Norbert Leo Butz is absolutely hysterical. As to good dining, try BLT or its new fish house in the Flatiron District. Also, a new Greek restaurant on West 79th Street called Onera. I recently revisited Shun Lee West on 65th Street. Passé is my thinking, but that's me. •
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