Much like the opening words of a very famous piece of literature, was 2006 for our Club. "It was the best of times, it was the worst of times."
The "best of times" for a small club with many new members, many of whom were experiencing the sport of Schutzhund for the first time, meant some members had the good fortune to work with a world-famous trainer, Ivan Balabanov, who complimented their dogs on having a good working foundation; some members earned their first working degrees, the Bh, with awesome performances; some members earned working titles with very nice scores; others competed in major events, even though they were not completely successful, they also made some nice scores in some phases.
The "worst of times" was certainly the passing of two very special people: Our dear friend, Dave Hartman, in the spring; and our President and leader, Ed Frear, in the fall.
Words cannot express our sorrow for the sudden and untimely loss of our dear friend Ed Frear. Ed was the President of the Mid Atlantic Working Dog Club. He was a true Ambassador for the sport of Schutzhund and the German Shepherd Breed. Ed enjoyed watching a really tough dog work, regardless of the breed. Ed was a wonderful and kind man who made everyone feel welcome and appreciated. He was always a "cheer leader" for the average competitor.

For some of us, he put the fun back in Schutzhund. For others, he offered tremendous encouragement and support.
To say he loved his Bride, Sue, does not begin to describe their relationship. His love for her will live on forever.
Ed served his community as a Township Commissioner, but he was not a politician. He was serving, not self-serving. He was an ally to all who served in public safety.
Ed was a big man with a heart to match. He would have done anything for anyone he called "friend." He had a lot of friends, in the truest sense of the word.
In the words of one of our members, "maybe Ed got his homework done and got to go home early." We can only take comfort in the hope that he is answering a higher calling than the one he served in this world.
Ed, we will never forget you. Your spirit lives on in each of us. We will continue doing what we are doing and hope that somewhere you are watching and that you are proud.