Oak Crest’s Canine Cup IV Celebrates Pet Connections

PARKVILLE, MD—Since its opening in 1995, Oak Crest has been a pet-friendly retirement community. That affectionate connection between residents and their four-legged friends was on display at Canine Cup IV, Oak Crest's annual dog show, on October 24th.

Sixteen residents and employees entered this year's event, vying for bragging rights in four categories: Best Costume, Waggiest Tail, Best Trick and the main event, Best In Show.

The judges' panel consisted of ABC 2 News meteorologist Adrienne Green, Oak Crest Executive Director Gary Hibbs and Catholic Review web news editor Jennifer Williams. With the cuteness level at high, their decisions were challenging.

When the votes were tallied, the winners in the resident divisions were Ms. Dianne Rose with "Mini Li", her Pomeranian (Best In Show), Ms. Uta Lee with "Petey", her Shih Tzu (Best Costume), Ms. Marsha Smith with "Pepper," her King Charles Spaniel (Waggiest Tail) and Mrs. Marge Yates with "Cassie," her Havanese (Best Trick).

"Earl," a 150-pound Great Dane and the family dog of Jeff Hohenberger, swept the employee divisions.

"Pets, whether they are dogs or cats, are true family members for many people. That's why it was so fun to celebrate that connection with a friendly competition,'" stated Jeff Getek, public affairs manager. "Many thanks are extended to our volunteers, judges and vendors for sharing their talents and making the competition a dog-gone good time for everyone."

Jen Swanson, Executive Director of the Baltimore Humane Society, provided the audience of over one hundred an overview of the adoption services and volunteer opportunities offered by the organization. Carol Silldorff, owner of a pet portrait business, participated as a vendor, and PetSmart (Middle River location on Pulaski Highway) donated prizes.

Todd Sullivan, Director of Philanthropy at Oak Crest, served as the event's emcee.

About Oak Crest: Oak Crest is one of eighteen continuing care retirement communities managed by Erickson Living. Located in Parkville, Maryland the scenic 87-acre campus is home to more than 2,100 residents. Oak Crest is the ideal greater Baltimore retirement destination offering a true sense of community, convenience beyond compare and a sensible financial structure.