4/99

Dear Mr./Ms. Vice President,

I am a staff writer of Asahi-Shinbun, the leading daily paper in Japan.

I am now researching Akita-inu with my colleague, in order to write an article on the present situation surrounding Akita-inu.

For that purpose, I would like to ask some questions to you and it would be Highly appreciated if you could respond me as soon as possible, by the end of 25 May's working hour, if possible.

 The questions are as follows;

1. Are you going to attend the coming Conference in Mexico?  Do you attend it as the delegate of AKC on the Akita issue?  In case you are not the delegate, Who performs as the AKC delegate on that issue?

2. It is said that FCI might split the Akita into two different categories. Do you know who propose this idea first and what is your opinion on the split?

What is good points and bad points of it?   Do you support it or not? Is there any conditions when you make either decision?

3. How do you evaluate so-called "Japanese Akita"?  Please give some comment on it.

4. At the conference in 1996, I hear that a delegate from Japan said, "American Akita should not be recognized as the Akita.", and that the statement caused severe discussion on the Akita. Is this true?  I also would like to know exactly what happened there.  If it is true, I also would like to know who made the statement. Please give me his/her name and status, in case you know.  What is your opinion on such a statement?

  That's all.  Thank you very much for your cooperation.

It would be extremely grateful if you could answer me by fax (81 18 862 3327 ) or e-mail by the date above.  It would be kind if you include your contact phone number in your response.

Sincerely,

Kayo TOMONO

Asahi-Shinbun
Akita branch office,
2-1-46 Sannou, Akita
Japan 010-0951
tel: 81 18 823 5121