The One and the
Crew
10 years, what a milestone! My how this event has grown from
just some folks gathering at Franklin Park, to what you see here today
and then some!
Over the last 10 years we have met so many new friends and said goodbye
to some old friends, far too soon. At our 10th anniversary, many felt
it time we pay tribute to
'The One' - Pat Benstine.
Without Pat, there would be no WABR or this wonderful event we all
enjoy.
Pat has demonstrated, year after year, her unwavering loyalty to this
breed and the people who love it too.
You may be surprised to learn that Pat wasn't always a dog-lover, in
fact, for quite awhile she only had cats! In 1977 she received a
Basset/Beagle ('Bagle') puppy as a gift, that was rescued from the pound
and so it all began. Then in 1979, she came across a young female
Basset in a parking lot whose paws were bloody from wandering lost...
she tried very hard to find Gertrude's home and after searching and
searching with no luck, adopted her into the family. Then there was
Rocky, then Murphy (still with her today) and so many other long-eared
loves who have touched her heart.
The parade of rescued Bassets is truly a testimonial to her work -
seeing all the dogs who have found their forever homes. Bassets that
are now loved and cherished instead of being neglected, ignored or even
abused. The rescue parade is one of the best parts of the Blast, it's
what this is all about.
Even more amazing is that Pat remembers her rescue dogs, every one of
them. If you've ever seen a Basset's reaction at this event when she
approaches, you instantly know that they remember Pat too - with deep
love and affection.
Despite the heat, cold, wind, rain, a tornado touching down the day
before, you name the weather - Basset Blast has always gone on, been
great and the people have come, because this woman worked, often without
rest for days, to make it all come together.
It takes a very special person to do what Pat Benstine does for the
animals, 365 days a year, without any payment except tail wags, snooter
kisses, drool and a warm head on her lap and we're all so grateful for
her. I am proud to call her my friend.
As one volunteer put it, 'imagine if more people could be so dedicated
to making the world a better place.'
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Some of "The Crew"
Wanted! For swiping the King and Queen Hats....
And a one and a two.....
I know this!!! A failed Pat Photo....
I don't know...Someone should ask....
I'm not looking.. I'm not
looking...
B-15
K-12
Ooooo-88
Who's eyes are supposed to be
closed?
Well, that's better... Both closed,
now we'll never know if it was B-6 or B-8
What is in the Box?
