Always Alert by Terry Redlin ~ "Always Alert", is an excellent example of his visual storytelling skills. At the end of a hot summer day, under a threatening thunderhead, the farmer on his John Deere tractor is almost finished baling. His last cut has flushed out four ringnecked pheasants from the edge of the field. The farmer does not notice, nor do his helpers on the wagon who point to a formation of Canada geese winging south in the distant sky. Only the three multicolored labs, who are "always alert", appreciate the sudden wildlife activity. They have been tethered near the water's edge waiting for their master to finish his chores. Hunting season will begin soon, and we can be assured these three anxious canines will shortly be free to pursue their favorite pastime.