January 21, 2012Dear Sir,I am a Bermudian who has lived in the United States for the past 28 years. I was one of the first people to bring in these breeds, rottweilers, pitbulls and American Bulldogs back in the 1970s. What happened in Bermuda happened all over the world as a result of people not being educated on how to raise and handle these breeds. These are not breeds that just anybody can own, for they require a lot of attention and discipline. In America now, we have a bully movement going on, which is promoting these breeds in a positive manner. A lot of the Hip Hop generation is involved and its no more promoting how vicious your dog is but how good your dog competes, and looks among others. They even go as far as putting bling on their dogs and it is bringing all types of young and older adults together. We even have weight pull competitions.You can go on youtube and see my dogs pull: reference Carlitos first show Az (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0lLkJ77tZNQ).I have seen the crime rates in Arizona, where I am currently living, decrease tremendously. People are getting involved with these dogs all over. I read up on Bermuda everyday before I go to work, and it pains me to see how bad the crime has got in Bermuda. I think its due to lack of hobbies or interest. The young generation needs something new that promotes good behaviour.You may ask how I think these dogs will change all of this? I want to give this generation the knowledge that I have and also the time that needs to be put with these breeds can mean less time on the streets. It’s not about where you’re from, or who you are, or what race you are, it’s simply about the dogs and how well you can train them. There is nothing more exciting and interesting than having a tough looking dog that is under manners and can be around other dogs and children. In Arizona, it’s almost like a family. We have shows, weight pulling competitions and we all get together for a good time with no problems. We have turnouts of over 200 dogs and their owners.I would love to speak to you more on this subject as my hopes for the young generation in Bermuda are high. I truly believe with the proper knowledge and education with these breeds can change a lot. I want to promote these activities in Bermuda and bring the knowledge to the community. Hope to be speaking with you soon.EDWARD DURHAMGlendale, Arizona