In 1973, Mary and Vern Bell had just seen Patton, and Vern thought a White Bull Terrier was the coolest dog. Mary thought not. They stayed in the Terrier family and the color white, agreeing on a West Highland White Terrier.

They saw a 5-month-old female Westie at a pet store in Raleigh. Despite admonitions not to buy from a pet shop, she looked okay, was a lot cheaper, and could be put on MasterCard! “Windermere of Rosewood” changed their lives forever and lived to be 16 years old. She obtained her CD and CDX obedience titles, and was one of the first Westies in the US to obtain a tracking title. She also earned a Certificate of Gameness (pre-Earth Dog). Windy was the second recipient of the WHWTCA's Versatile Dog Award.

The Bells joined the DKC in October 1973 and were bitten by the "show bug.” A handler kindly pointed out that Windy wasn’t a show dog, and they soon came home with their second Westie, “Angel.” Angel did not like the show ring, but one of her puppies, “Belvar's Theodore J. Bear,” became their first champion in 1976, breeder/owner handled.

Mary and Vern showed their first Westies in conformation, obedience, tracking and go-to-ground. They both taught obedience classes at DKC for about 15 years. In later years, they have shown only in conformation. Their most memorable moment was winning the American Bred Class (19 in the class) under Judge Mrs. John Marvin at the WHWTCA National Specialty with “Biljonblue's Quintessa.”

They believe the DKC conformation and puppy kindergarten classes are helpful for training new puppies, and they enjoy learning about other breeds. They like the members and the many activities available in which to participate.