2026 Candidates

Janice Kivimaki (Acclaimed)

Zone 1 Nominee

I’ve proudly represented Zone 1 members at the CKC Board table since 2023, working to strengthen Atlantic representation and ensure our region has a confident, knowledgeable and effective voice in national discussions.

During my term, I’ve:

• Served as a liaison between members and government agencies.
• Demonstrated leadership in emergency preparedness.
• Helped bring the new Fetch program to CKC.
• Assisted members with establishing clubs and having titles from other organizations recognized by CKC.
• Hosted educational Zoom sessions on heat stroke, water toxicity and fire preparedness.
• Helped finalize a kennel inspection checklist promoting excellence in animal husbandry.
• Provided regular Facebook updates on CKC initiatives, agendas and issues.

I’m a strong advocate for purebred dogs, responsible breeding, and canine health and welfare. For more than eight years, I’ve held cardiac clinics throughout Atlantic Canada and organized educational seminars supporting and educating breeders.

My commitment extends beyond the CKC. As a former NS Provincial Evaluator for the SJA Therapy Dog Program, I was honoured to be called to The Order of St. John. Today, I am a member of Therapeutic Dogs of Canada, participating in the Read Program with my Labrador, Swayze.

I thank you for your trust in me for the upcoming term.

Paul Oslach

Zone 2 Nominee

I have been a CKC member for 46 years, successfully breeding and exhibiting Cavalier King Charles Spaniels (CKCS) since 1978 in conformation and obedience – producing BIS, BISS, OTCH and numerous Champions/Grand Champions. I am a licensed Obedience and Rally judge and have judged across North America and the current President of the CKCS Club of Atlantic Canada.

I proudly served on the CKC Board for eight years – representing Zone 2 for six years, and Zone 6 for two years. During this time, I was involved in Councils and Committees, including: Obedience, Hunt, WC, Beagles and CGN. While serving Zone 2, I was involved in representing the membership concerns to the Government of NB, concerning provincial by-laws discussions. I bring a thorough understanding of CKC policy and procedures, which helps with Board decisions.

I believe in actively engaging the membership regarding issues affecting the CKC, ensuring their voices are represented. To gather feedback, through multiple channels, including in-person and virtual townhalls, emails, social media and will attend events across the Zone. I will endeavour to ensure opportunities for ongoing judges’ education and provide support for our Junior Handlers in the Zone.

Tina Sandford

Zone 2 Nominee

With over 34 years in the purebred dog community as a breeder and exhibitor, I provide extensive firsthand experience. As a retired military member with expertise in human resources and finance, I bring strong leadership and organizational skills to the Board.

Over the years, I have seen many changes in breeding, dog sports, and club operations, making me an advocate for both tradition and innovation. I have held executive roles in local and national clubs and organized events, gaining a deep appreciation for the volunteerism that keeps the CKC and clubs thriving.

During my 2023–2026 term, I served as Chair of the Conformation Council, Beagle and Basset Hound Trial Council, Board Orientation and Education Committee, and a member of the Legislation Committee. These roles allow me to represent Zone 2 members in PEI/NB and contribute to decisions affecting CKC members nationwide.

A main priority is keeping Zone 2 members informed. I have attended a range of CKC events throughout the zone to ensure all voices are heard. Good representation means engaging with members, providing timely information, listening to concerns, and voicing their perspectives.

I ask for your support for re-election so I can continue offering dedicated and accessible representation.

Nancy Ménard-Cheng

Zone 3 Nominee

A lawyer by training, I am a grievance arbitrator and labour relations mediator.

Having practised law for more than twenty years, I have acquired extensive experience in governance, regulatory interpretation, decision-making and finding fair solutions.

I entered the dog fancy almost by chance and immediately became passionate about it. I have been breeding French Bulldogs under the MASINO kennel name for eight years and actively participate, as an exhibitor and owner, in conformation and performance events.

My commitment is also grounded in practical experience in organizational governance. I co-founded the Justine and Florence Foundation, served for more than ten years as a director of the CRDITED de la Montérégie-Est and am a co- founder of the Union des éleveurs canins du Québec. From 2022 to 2025, I also served on the Canadian Kennel Club’s Registration Committee.

I want to actively represent Quebec members, be a strong voice for francophones and ensure that the concerns of Zone 3 members are better heard. At a time when responsible breeders face growing challenges, I want to champion their contribution, promote the value of purebred dogs, preserve their genetic heritage and, above all, ensure they receive the recognition they deserve from the general public.

Louise ‘Glenda’ Newton

Zone 3 Nominee

A Life Member of the Canadian Kennel Club, which I joined in 1985, I have been actively involved in purebred dogs for more than 40 years as a breeder, owner, exhibitor and volunteer. I have contributed to numerous clubs in the Montreal area and currently serve on the CKC Breeder Relations Committee.

My involvement also extends internationally. I have bred, owned and exhibited champion dogs in Canada, the United States and Europe. I am a member of the Portuguese Water Dog clubs of Canada, the United States and Great Britain and serve on the Breeder Support and Education Committee of the Portuguese Water Dog Club of America.

Professionally, I bring more than 20 years of experience as a senior leader within complex international organizations, including the United Nations. My experience encompasses governance, strategic planning, policy development, financial and budget management, and stakeholder engagement. I have been responsible for budgets of USD 40-60 million within operations valued at up to USD 330 million.

Deeply committed to the CKC and to the future of purebred dogs, I would welcome the opportunity to bring my experience, integrity, judgement, enthusiasm and community-based approach to the service of Quebec members and the CKC.

Kerry Bauer

Zone 4 Nominee

I studied physical fitness at Fanshawe College, with courses in anatomy, kinesiology, psychology and biomechanics. After working as a personal trainer in several London-area gyms, I moved to a farm, bred Arabian horses and began a 30-year career as a farrier.

In 2005, we purchased our first show dog, a Miniature Poodle. After a few years of trial and error, we found our beloved Whippets and never looked back. We have been breeding and exhibiting under the Shetara prefix for more than 20 years.

I have recently entered the ring as a Conformation Judge, beginning with the Hound Group. I have served as Show Chair for the Nipissing Kennel Club for the past three years and currently serve as Club Secretary.

Professionally, I have been a dedicated federal public servant with Statistics Canada for 26 years, progressing from clerk to supervisor and manager. I have also been an active union representative, serving as a shop steward, Occupational Health and Safety co-chair, bargaining team member and, most recently, Local President.

My experience in dog sports, public service, labour relations and health and safety allows me to bring a practical, common-sense and different perspective to the table.

Elizabeth Numbers

Zone 4 Nominee

Professional Career – Elementary teacher with the Simcoe County District School Board, since 1995, retired from full-time teaching, currently on the Occasional teachers list.

Dog club related

CKC member since 2004 – 6 years as Zone 4A Junior handling rep, hosted the 2012 Junior Nationals. Currently in 9th year on the Conformation Council.

Member of the Doberman Pinscher Club of Canada since 2004, hosted the national specialty with obedience & rally trials in 2017 and 2022.

Member of the Berrie Kennel & Obedience Club since 2004, have held several executive positions, including secretary, show chair, president and vice president. Have participated in organizing health clearance clinics, handling classes, and obedience classes.

Member of the Greater MidOntario Doberman Fanciers, currently hold the position of President.

Volunteer at the Red Barn Event Centre, working as a team member for hosting Sprinter trials, as well has helping at agility, scent detention, obedience and rally trials.

Stephan Olschewski

Zone 4 Nominee

I am seeking election as Zone 4 Director to help restore fairness, transparency and member engagement within the CKC while building on the organization's strong history.

With more than 25 years in dog sports, I have participated in Conformation, Obedience and breeding through Gatehouse Dobermans. My wife, Maura Reilly, and I have produced more than 170 titled dogs, 54 champions in Canada and the United States, four Best in Show winners and three Reserve Best in Show winners.

I am a retired Ontario Public Service leader with experience in court operations, Indigenous relations, emergency management and justice modernization. Throughout my career, I managed large teams, complex stakeholder relationships and major modernization initiatives requiring accountability, strategic planning and fiscal responsibility.

Following retirement, we founded Howlers Dog Sports, which has grown into Grey-Bruce's largest dog sport and boarding facility. In 2026, I was elected President of the Grey Bruce Kennel and Obedience Club.

As Director, I will advocate for stronger member education, effective marketing of purebred dogs, Safe Sport principles, meaningful accountability, and support for clubs and exhibitors. I believe CKC members deserve a voice in shaping the future of our sport, and I ask for your support.

Glen Stark

Zone 4 Nominee

A lifelong owner, breeder, and exhibitor of purebred dogs, I have been a proud member of the Canadian Kennel Club for over 40 years.

I have bred Belgian Shepherds and Shetland Sheepdogs, earning titles in both Conformation and Performance events. From 1975 to 1999, I bred Belgian Shepherds under the Gemfire prefix. Today, I continue my passion for breeding Shetland Sheepdogs under the MacLaren prefix.

As an all-breed Conformation Judge, I have developed a broad perspective and deep appreciation for the diversity and excellence within our sport.

My commitment to the dog community extends beyond the ring. I am a past President of both the Belgian Shepherd Club of Canada and the Canadian Shetland Sheepdog Association and have held numerous other leadership positions. I currently serve as President and Show Chairman of the Kawartha Kennel Club.

I am seeking election to the CKC Board for Zone 4 to bring practical experience, informed perspective, and sound business judgment. Professionally, my consulting career has built extensive expertise in leadership, strategic planning, financial management, project development, and stakeholder collaboration. I am committed to helping ensure the CKC remains relevant & financially responsible at home and on the world stage in the future.

William Alexander

Zone 5 Nominee

Will Alexander has spent a lifetime in purebred dogs. He entered the show ring at seven and built his career during an era many remember as the heyday of our sport. From apprentice to professional handler, breeder and judge, his career has spanned generations of change, taking him from some of Canada’s greatest show rings to Best in Show at Westminster.

I have also learned that our future cannot be built by trying to recreate our past.

The challenges facing the Canadian Kennel Club today require us to think differently, embrace innovation and be willing to try new approaches. Experience matters, but its greatest value is knowing what to preserve, what to change and when it is time to take a different path.

Today, as an educator and mentor, I share the knowledge gained over a lifetime while encouraging a new generation to find its own path forward.

That is what I bring to this candidacy: respect for where we came from, a clear understanding of where we are, and optimism about where we can go.

With the right leadership, we can honour what built this organization while building what comes next.

Robert (Bob) Whitney

Zone 5 Nominee

I have decided to stand for re-election to the position of Director of the Canadian Kennel Club for Zone 5 – Ontario East. I believe I have the experience and knowledge to represent CKC members in Eastern Ontario. My family and I have lived in the Northumberland Hills for 28 years. Over those years, I have had the pleasure of interacting with many CKC members and clubs in Eastern Ontario.

I have served for the last 3 years as your CKC Zone Director. Half way through the term, the Board of Directors appointed me Chair of the Board. Previously, I served 9 years as a CKC Board member, including 6 years as Chairman of the Board.

I am Treasurer of 4 Clubs a member of 2 other Breed Clubs and a CKC member for 55 years.

My work experience includes 13 years working with teachers in the Toronto School Board, 13 years in accounting for a national pharmaceutical company and with my wife, Elaine, as a Professional Handler and owner of a large boarding kennel.

I am an All-Breed Conformation Judge and have judged internationally.

I have the time, energy, knowledge and experience to serve the members of Eastern Ontario.

Michael Gelinas

Zone 6 Nominee

I have been a member of the Canadian Kennel Club for 51 years, breeding and exhibiting Dobermans and Cavaliers under the Ruler prefix. During that time, I have experienced our sport as a breeder, owner-handler, club executive, show organizer and All-Breed judge.

I serve on the executive of two successful all-breed clubs and the Judges Observation Committee. I have helped host more than 300 shows and, for over 30 years, have represented our sport and the CKC internationally as a judge.

Professionally, I spent my career in management, where customer service, budgets, goals and accountability were part of doing business.

Our sport faces real challenges. Membership and participation are declining, clubs are struggling with lower entries, breeders face a changing world, members are concerned about fees and lengthy processes. We cannot simply ask fewer people to pay more.

CKC needs to get moving again. We need to promote purebred dogs beyond our existing events, listen to our members, support our clubs and raise the profile of the Canadian Kennel Club.

I bring both business and dog experience to the table, along with a common-sense approach to problem solving.

I believe in purebred Dogs, I want to help this sport thrive again.

Peter Scott

Zone 6 Nominee

My name is Peter Scott.

I was an all-breed Professional Handler for almost 40 years before retiring.

I have now begun the judging process, and am CKC licensed for 4 groups, on permit for a 5th. I am also a UKC licensed judge.

I bred Maltese in the 1970s and 1980s. Later, I bred Lakeland Terriers and Standard Poodles, and now, along with my wife, breed Dandie Dinmont Terriers and Brussels Griffon.

I was a founding member of the Toy Dog Club of Ontario in the mid 1980s. I am currently a member and former Directore of the Non-Sporting Club of Ontario (Club VI). I am also a life member of the CKC.

Among my clients are a number who are involved in running clubs, so I am familiar with the issues there.

I am also the current CKC Director for Zone 6.

Bill Ashburn

Zone 7 Nominee

My Name is Bill Ashburn, and I am honoured to be nominated for Zone 7 Director of the CKC

Along with my wife Jennifer I have been involved in breeding and showing Wire Fox Terriers since the mid 80’s under the kennel name Foxheart. I have also bred and shown Airedale Terriers and have participated in obedience and earth dog trials

I am a Life Member of CKC, WFTCC and the Seaway Kennel Club. Currently I am President of The Seaway Kennel Club, The Airedale Terrier Club of Canada, The Wire Fox Terrier of Canada and past President of The Wire Fox Terrier Club of the Central States.

Until my Retirement in December 2025, I worked for 45 years in the Alcoholic Beverage industry. From 2000 to 2025 I served as Vice President and Master Blender for Forty Creek Distillery. From 2014 to 2024 I was also a Corporate Director for the same Company. In addition to my Business Career, I served 3 years for the town of Grimsby as Vice Chair of the Grimsby Economic Advisory Committee.

I bring to the role a wealth of experience in different areas and can contribute to guiding CKC in the evolving landscape

Gordon Hayburn

Zone 7 Nominee

Gordon is a respected executive, dedicated purebred dog enthusiast, and experienced breed club leader whose career reflects a commitment to excellence and integrity. As a Vice President in the food industry, he has extensive experience in governance, compliance, strategic planning, and team leadership, providing the skills and perspective necessary for effective board service.

Since joining CKC in 2014, Gordon is an active advocate for responsible dog ownership, breed preservation, and canine welfare. His commitment extends beyond the show ring through leadership and volunteer roles within breed clubs, where he has helped strengthen club operations, organize specialty events, promote education, and support membership growth.

Gordon understands the challenges facing clubs and exhibitors, including volunteer engagement, event sustainability, and attracting new participants to the sport. He believes strongly in the partnership between the CKC and its member clubs and recognizes their critical role in preserving all our wonderful dog breeds.

Known as a principled, approachable, and collaborative leader, Gordon is respected for his ability to build consensus, foster transparency, and promote thoughtful decision-making. His combination of executive leadership experience and involvement in the purebred dog community makes him a strong advocate for CKC members and the future of purebred dogs in Canada.

Thomas Alexander (Acclaimed)

Zone 8 Nominee

Valerie Bandas

Zone 9 Nominee

For the past three years, it has been a privilege to serve as your CKC Zone 9 Director. During that time, I learned about CKC performance events previously unfamiliar to me and met many passionate and dedicated members across our Zone. I worked diligently to represent Saskatchewan members’ interests while gaining a broader understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing our sport and organization. I would be honoured to continue that work.

I am a Life Member of the Canadian Kennel Club and have participated in a variety of CKC events, primarily Conformation, but also Obedience, Rally Obedience, Sprinter, Barn Hunt and Canine Good Neighbour. My dogs have always been owner-handled.

My 35-year career at SaskPower included procurement, contract negotiation and management, budgeting, cost analysis, event planning, customer service and government relations. These experiences provided valuable skills in governance, financial oversight, negotiation, administration and working with people that I believe are directly applicable to serving the CKC membership. I retired in 2017, allowing me more time to give back to our sport.

I ask for your support and your vote to continue serving as your CKC Director.

Rachel Brower

Zone 9 Nominee

I am thrilled to be running for the Zone 9 Director position and to be considered by Saskatchewan CKC members.

Dogs have been part of my life every day. I grew up with family and foster dogs, competed in agility as a junior, and today participate in Scent Detection, Rally, Sprinters & Chase, Agility and Conformation with my Doberman. Through these activities, I have travelled across Canada and met many dedicated dog fanciers. I enjoy volunteering at events in a variety of roles and currently serve on the Board of the Hub City Kennel and Obedience Club. I am also a member of the Alberta Doberman Pinscher Club and the Saskatoon Working and Herding Dog Association.

I want to represent Saskatchewan because I bring a fresh perspective, experience and a commitment to member engagement. My goal is to be an approachable and effective voice for Zone 9 while helping the CKC continue to evolve.

Professionally, I am a Detective Constable with the Saskatoon Police Service, Secretary of the Warman Housing Authority Board, a Commerce student at the University of Saskatchewan, and a business owner. I believe CKC members deserve meaningful representation, and I am committed to providing it.

Tina Gaudet (Acclaimed)

Zone 10 Nominee

I am a dedicated member of the Canadian canine community with more than 31 years of volunteer service and 45 years of customer service experience. As a breeder, owner-handler, CKC representative and club executive, I have built a strong foundation in leadership, governance and member service.

Since 2018, I have served as Senior Representative on the CKC Zone 10 Conformation Council, acting as a liaison between local clubs and the CKC while bringing member feedback forward and contributing to discussions on conformation events and regulations. I also served a term on the CKC Breeder Relations Committee, representing breeder perspectives and supporting initiatives that strengthen breeder engagement.

I am Vice-President of the Alberta Kennel Club and have held a variety of leadership roles, including Director, Secretary, Facilities Chairperson, Specialty Liaison and Booth Chairperson. I also serve as Secretary-Treasurer of Shiba Inu Canada.

Under the Timberfox Shiba Inus prefix, I have bred Best in Show and Best in Specialty Show winners since 2005. Combined with my professional experience in customer service, logistics and stakeholder relations, I remain committed to supporting CKC members, clubs and the future of purebred dogs in Canada.

Tempest Deptuch

Zone 11 Nominee

For the past six years, I have had the privilege of serving as your CKC Board member. I currently serve as Vice-Chair of the Board and sit on the Breed Standards Committee, ROE Committee and Obedience/Rally Council.

Dogs have been part of my life for as long as I can remember. I come from a dog family. My parents bred Afghans and Poodles, and today I continue to breed and exhibit Standard Poodles.

My late husband, Sandy Fletcher, and I shared our love of dogs and the sport for more than 30 years. Sandy proudly served eight years on the CKC Board as Director for Zone 12.

Over 50 years as a breeder, owner and handler, I have bred multiple Best in Show, Specialty and Group winners in Canada and the United States. I have also participated in Obedience, Rally, Sprinters, Nosework and Lure Coursing.

I have been actively involved in clubs, organizing shows and trials, teaching Conformation and Obedience classes, and promoting purebred dogs in our communities. I am a CKC Licensed All-Breed Judge and retired after 30 years in software development and training.

I would be honoured to continue working for our clubs, members and dogs.

Shawn Nichols

Zone 11 Nominee

Shawn Nichols has spent 44 years in purebred dogs as a breeder, professional handler, club executive, publisher and international all-breed judge. He has bred several breeds, primarily Toy and Miniature Poodles under the Typecast prefix, and currently serves as President of the Canadian Dog Judges Association. Since becoming an all-breed judge, Shawn has judged in fifteen countries, including Westminster, Sydney Royal and the Poodle Club of America National Specialty.

I believe that if you criticize the process, you must also be willing to become part of the solution. For me, that time is now.

I care deeply about this sport and the community that has kept so many of us involved for decades. But its future cannot be taken for granted. Declining membership cannot be answered by asking fewer members to pay more. We need sustainable clubs and events, stronger member engagement, new revenue opportunities and new generations discovering why this community matters.

CKC must continue building strong relationships at home and internationally while remaining a powerful advocate for dogs.

We cannot keep putting difficult decisions off. We must work together, challenge old assumptions and make the decisions today that will keep our sport strong for generations to come.

Delvina Beaulac

Zone 12 Nominee

Experience. Leadership. A Voice for Zone 12.

With more than 30 years of experience with the Canadian Kennel Club, I believe I have the knowledge, perspective, and commitment to serve as your Director for Zone 12.

I believe in the CKC, its mission, and its goals. I want to build stronger support and respect for preservation breeders, grow our sports, and educate and engage our communities throughout the Zone.

Like many of you, I have been a breeder and competitor in performance sports and conformation. I participated in the Breeder-Owner-Handler class before it became official and have campaigned dogs with professional handlers. Today, I’m proud to serve as a CKC judge. I also hold degrees in Marketing and Business Administration, bringing professional experience in communication, organization, and strategic thinking.

Clear, honest, and open communication is essential. We will not always agree with decisions, policies, or processes, but respectful communication allows us to move forward positively. Every member deserves a voice and the right to be heard.

We are all on the same team, and our team is strongest when everyone contributes.

Please vote for Delvina Beaulac Zone 12. Together, let’s grow our sports, support our breeders, strengthen our community, and build a stronger future for the CKC.

Wayne J Davidson

Zone 12 Nominee

CKC member since 1974. Served in breed clubs and currently two all-breed clubs.

Since 1990, I have teach in 45 handling classes each year.

Since joining the Board in January 2024, I have attended events across the Zone, including Championship Shows, Obedience and Rally,, CGN, Tracking, Retriever Trials, Scent Detection, Herding and Agility.

Launching, the C.N.O.H.S. which provides eligible owner-handlers with the opportunity to compete for national owner-handled rankings.

For those of you that know me I work hard for clubs, for members and for all dogs.

I have demonstrated I work for positive change and am willing to discipline bad actors. I am in no ones or no clique’s “pocket,” as I am transparent in my dealings with members.

I have not been just a member, but a supporter of the C.K.C. over the past 5 decades. I am not the candidate who introduced and promoted another registry to hold events in Canada from the United States (2015 to 2019). I am dedicated to doing what is best for responsible Canadian Dog Breeders and owners in Canada via the Canadian Kennel Club. Please vote for experience and dedication!