Ribbon Cutting/ Dove Release: Lakevue Elementary School, Nampa, ID

Last Monday, the birds performed at Lakevue Elementary in Nampa, Idaho, for a ribbon cutting and dedication of the new school.

This became one of The Dove Lady's favorite releases ever, and there are so many reasons why. Part of what made it such a great time was the wonderful (and I do mean wonderful) people I had the privilege of working with, such as PTO President Kris Garman and the school's principal Leeta Hobbs.

The enthusiasm of the students was tremendous, and their school spirit was phenomenal. And the doves -- oh, those sweet, lovely doves! They flew from their baskets strong and glimmering. They circled a handful of times, right where all could see them, and then disappeared in the air, just behind the school building. And then, ... as the music hit it's most powerful and impactful crescendo, all of those athletic white beauties came flying back over Lakevue Elementary School, as if on perfect cue. The students all squealed with delight, yet again. The doves (surely pleased with themselves) headed for home.

The Idaho Press Tribune put together a wonderful quick clip of the entire Lakevue Elementary School Ribbon Cutting/Dedication Event. To watch it, click HERE!

**Photo in this article credited to the talents of IPT photographer Mike Vogt.

Dear Abby -- The Other Side of Doves Releases?

We have been informed that on Thursday, May 29, 2008, the Dear Abby column will be publishing letters from readers regarding the previously-mentioned "anti-dove" column. Ethical dove release lovers from all over the country will be looking forward to reading the column, in hopes that there will be redemption and integrity manifested in the letters chosen to be published...

Use Right Birds for Dove Release

Use right birds for dove releases
May 4, 2008

Usually, ''Dear Abby's'' advice is appropriate. However, she should have done more homework before writing on April 28 about the ''certain death'' awaiting '' wedding doves.''I have been releasing doves at weddings and funerals in the Lehigh Valley for some time. Like other responsible businesspeople in this field, I release pure white homing pigeons. These strong and highly intelligent birds do indeed return home, often flying at speeds approaching 50 mph. They take to wing with exuberant joy and fly back to their loft out of love of home. It's a rare event when they don't beat me home. Some people purchase white doves at pet stores and release them; these captive doves will not survive. This is why it is important to make sure a responsible dove handler is used. Doves are frequently released at weddings, but more so at funerals. Those who have witnessed the peace and comfort a release can bring to someone who is grieving know just what a dove release represents. Readers can learn more at the Web site of the American Racing Pigeon Union: http://www.pigeon.org Heather Barbosa

Published in “The Morning Call”

Explaining WDRP Policy: Appropriate Handler Attire

The idea that when representing a dove business, the dove handler should wear appropriate attire might be self-explanatory. However, I'll delve into the subject, briefly.

I think many people envision someone who raises homing pigeons as being perhaps a little unclean from managing the lofts and the other physical aspects required in maintaining a clean, healthy environment while working with animals. Good care does, indeed, require a great amount of physical work and does involve "mess.

However, while this is the case when it comes to loft maintenance, pampering the birds, and very physical work, it doesn't mean this is how the dove handler should EVER show up to a release assignment.

WDRP members want to reflect their professionalism and how seriously they take making your event beautiful in every way, within their realm of responsibility. So don't ever expect a WDRP member to show up in overalls, with a stem of straw between his/her teeth (said with tongue in cheek, lol). We take our jobs seriously and want to reflect this in every way. Most male WDRP members will wear suits, and some even wear a tux to attend and perform the dove release for you. Women dress in business suits or other formal wear. Good presentation is critical. Your event is very important. Dressing appropriately, and taking pride in appearance is just another imperative piece of the professional packaging that makes up the breathtaking aura of a WDRP dove release.