Bulletin Board

May 2, 2008 - From Doreen Zimmerman -

I have terrific news about my puppy bitch Lakota Spirit's Sacred Legacy.

LAKOTA has the new title CHAMPION to her name after Old Dominion KC and Baltimore KC shows April 19 & 20th. Lakota won Best Of Winners & Best Opposite. Sex over three specials to win a 4 point major Saturday, and on Sunday she won another major 3 points to finish her Championship!!! (pending confirmation from AKC).

Lakota finished at 11 months old, all points from the puppy class with 4 majors,

Best of Breed over specials, Best Opposite Sex over specials, Best Puppy In Sweepstakes Specialty, and a Best Opposite Sex Puppy In Sweepstakes Specialty

show wins. She truly is following in her sire & dam's footsteps ("Charzard" & "Spirit") .

Lakota then went to the BMDCA National Show and was in the STUD DOG CLASS with her sire BISS CH.Adesa I'm Stepping Out and helped him win 1st place Stud Dog class along with Charzard's daughter "Butterfree"!

I want to say a huge "THANK-YOU SO MUCH !" to all the people who have supported me & admired Lakota in her few short 8 weeks at the shows.

Doreen Zimmerman

May 1, 2008 - A big THANK YOU to Kristina and Andy Reichenbach for their efforts last weekend to make the Dog Walk happen. There were around 15 people with their black dogs ambling down the tow path Saturday morning. The uninvited swarms of gnats were not welcome, but the group persevered and gathered for a bit of socializing after the stroll. It was great to see Don Grandstaff on the trail with a puppy. Don was celebrating his birthday Saturday and we were happy that he spent part of day with us. The canal tow path is a great place to walk -- level and shaded. Maybe we could form a group of walkers and meet there more often -- great exercise for dogs and people.

We missed the huge contingent of members who were in Warwick, RI at the National Specialty last week -- Georgeann & Bob, Norb & Sandy, Maria, Sue, Robin Kelly, Buck & Priscilla Sykes, Jim Barrett, Brenda Bernard, Deb Bullard, Ellen Miller, Val Chase, Jen Donnelly, Janet Grandstaff, Sherry Von Engel, Wendy Keene, Kate Perry, Andrea & Chris Stefanac, Paul & Robin Rosbolt, Barbara Yoder, & Dorrie Zimerman. By all accounts it was a wonderful show and celebration of everything Berner.

BTW, the 2009 National will be held in Portland, Oregon - April 26 - May 2. Information is available online at www.bmdca.org/specialty/2009/ And in 2010 the Specialty will be a lot closer to home in Wisconsin, May 10 - 15. Circle the dates and start saving your pennies.

April 08, 2008 - Details of the upcoming Dog Walk are now available. We'll be meeting in Point of Rocks, Md. to pick up the C&O Canal there. Please read the event flyer that will be in your mailbox in a couple of days. A copy is available by clicking here. There will not be a business meeting at this event since many of our members will be attending the National Specialty in Rhode Island that weekend. Many of us are not making the trip to the Specialty, however, so we hope to have a good crowd turn out for the walk. If the weather becomes a problem, we'll let you know the event status via the website. Feel free to bring a guest or prospective Berner owner. This is a good opportunity to have a hands on experience with the dogs.

March 30, 2008 - From Doreen Zimmerman - I have some great news to share...

My puppy girl Lakota Spirit's Sacred Legacy won a WB, BOW 4 point Major at Lancaster KC supported entry and that evening she also won a Working Group 1 Puppy at 10 months old . LAKOTA was also Best PUPPY In Specialty Sweepstakes at the BMDCA/MasonDixon Specialty show that same week. On this past Saturday Lakota turned 11 months old and went BEST OF BREED over specials from the classes & BOW, WB and repeated the win Sunday by winning Best Of Breed, WB, BOW again !!! LAKOTA is truly a DREAM come true puppy for me as breeder out of my bitch SPIRIT.

Doreen

March 28, 2008 - From Barbara Yoder - Hi Everyone, Thought I would update folks on our doggie accomplishments. First off, congratulations to Leatha Lorelei, daughter of Lani and Nico, for going Winners Bitch/Best of Opposite for one point each day her very first two days showing! And thanks too for Jo Ann's expert training and handling to get her to that point. She, her sister Lara and Freya were all participants in last week's Tarheel circuit down in Raleigh, NC, 3/18-23. The pups all have some growing (and evening out) to do, but we were very happy with this result. Then over the Easter weekend, Cindy and I participated in the agility trials held by the Mattaponi Kennel Club in Dale City, VA. This time, we were trying Cindy at the full height for her shoulder measurement, 24," since she has proven she can do the courses at 20" with her previous two titles in Preferred. We learned this takes a lot more effort on the part of both handler and dog (the handler has to make sure to leave enough room for the dog to take off and land over a 24" jump; we would have had two legs if I had realized that). Nonetheless, Cindy succeeded in nabbing a first place finish in the Novice B Jumpers with Weaves run on Easter Sunday. She even beat the posted time by one second. Just two more clean runs and she'll have her Novice title (NAJ). This from our senior dog...go Cindy! Best, Barbara

March 17, 2008 - We have another new AKC Champion in our Club: Santera Dallas Prinz picked up a nice 4 pt major in Hendersonville, NC on Feb 16, going BOW and BOS, then finished with a WD and BOS placement at the Monticello NY KC show on Mar 1. Dallas is owned by Debi Bullard who is still popping champagne corks celebrating her boy's new title.

March 17, 2008 - Congratulations to Robin Kelly and Josie on their first Rally leg earned at the Dog Owners Obedience Club trials on March 16. Here's a proud mama's brag to the Berner-L.

She really did it! We got our first leg in Rally yesterday. It was really cool! I'm so very proud of her! It was the first time we were in the performance ring together. We scored a 94 which also earned us 2nd in the class. I was shocked and have to admit there were some tears of joy. Just a little background so you understand why this is such a big deal. Jos was a re-home to me when she was 22 months old (5 now). She was/is a very shy girl. She loves me but new people and things not so much. So for her to go into that ring and perform as beautifully as she did is truly inspiring. I will say I think all of Howard County, Maryland could hear me cheer her on in the ring but that's what makes Rally so much fun! Onto the next leg we go... From very proud mamma, Robin w/ her amazingly beautiful Jos Berryville, VA

March 11, 2008 - Schedule conflicts have been resolved and our next general meeting will be at the Fun Day, Sunday, June 1, at Maria and Jack Crifasi's home in Garfield, Md. as originally planned.

March 10, 2008 - We had a great time at Joel and Jeanne's on Saturday. Yummy chili prepared by our hosts and delicious sides contributed by members left no one hungry after the Noon meal.

It was very relaxing sitting comfortably in the living room for the meeting, lots of participation and sharing of information. Resident puppy boy Sampson bounded in one time to say hello to everyone and give us our Berner fix of the hour. There were no motions or votes to report. We learned that the location for the April walk is still pending and Kristina and Andy are checking out possible sites. Also, due to a conflict in schedules, the June Fun Day will have to be moved forward or back a week or two. The Board will work on this at their upcoming March 19 meeting and coordinate with the Crifasis. Stay tuned. The Specialty show finances are not complete, awaiting the superintendent's statement. Two guests who are applying for membership were introduced, Kathleen Gallagher of McLean, and Becky Braukus of Dayton, Md.

Following the meeting, we watched a portion of In The Womb, a fascinating National Geographic production featuring, among others, canine development from inception to birth. If you haven't seen this program, try to obtain a copy from the video store or library. It's worth watching. Click here for more info. Thanks, Sandy, for providing the DVD.

Sincere thanks to Jeanne & Joel for hosting this event.

March 2, 2008 - From Valerie Chase - Specialty Grounds/Facilities Chair

We passed inspection with flying colors this year. Inside and out.

January 13, 2008 - The Bernese Mountain Dog Club of Hampton Roads is sponsoring an all-Bernese Fun Match on January 26, 2008. The match is being hosted by Langley Kennel Club and will start at 3:00 p.m. or 30 minutes after LKC’s Best In Match is awarded. The match will be held at Merrimac Dog Training Club, 15 Newsome Place, Hampton, VA, an indoors, fully-matted and climate controlled facility. The judge will be Kelli Cook from Gloucester, VA. No experience is necessary and no special equipment is necessary. There will be a short class prior to the start of judging for new exhibitors. If you can trot your dog on a leash and help him/her stay while the judge is doing an examination, you can participate!!! Pre-entry closes on Wednesday, January 23, 2008. You can also enter on the day of the match. Registration will be held from 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. on site. Cost of entries are $8 for pre-entry, $10 day of match. Classes will be held for intact and altered Berners as follows (same classes for dogs and bitches): 3-6 mo., 6-9 mo., 9-12 mo., Adult. Puppies will not compete against adults. Best In Match rosettes will be awarded for Best Puppy and Best Adult, Intact and Spay/Neuter. Any questions or requests for entry forms may be made to Wendy Keene, justsayberners@cox.net

Aug 5, 2007 - The missing pup in Buke, Virginia continues to be at large. He's been on his own since early Monday, July 30. He was spotted as recently as Friday evening in a wooded area a couple of miles away from his home, across a major highway. He was playing in a creek when seen and appeared to be okay, but he's been without food for almost a week now. Please keep thinking positive thoughts that this little guy will find safe harbor soon.

July 31, 2007 - A big WAHOO! to Priscilla and Buck Sykes on the 5-point major win by their Robyn last Friday in Greenville. Robyn also won Reserve Winners Bitch at the Saturday and Sunday shows. Congratulations!

July 31, 2007 - An eight-month old pup that was just placed in his forever home Sunday, bolted out the front door Monday morning at 6AM and took off into the neighborhood after only 12 hours with his new family. He was sighted about an hour later walking between some houses not far away, however, he again vanished and wasn't seen until late last evening when he approached some folks who were out looking for him. He was within 5 feet of being rescued when he spooked and took off into a wooded area near his new home. He is in the Burke, Va. area. Sandy Novocin is the breeder and she and Norb have been walking the neighborhoods trying to get him to respond to familiar voices. If anyone in the Burke vicinity hears of someone picking up a lost pup, please contact Sandy immediately at bandi@erols.com, 301-831-5969.

July 29, 2007 - A 13-year old Berner named Cronus wandered away from his home in Falls Church Friday and can't be found. If anyone has any information about this 80 pound senior, please contact Carol@pvbmdc.org or Sharon@pvbmdc.org. He is wearing a blue collar with an electric fence sensor. Please spread the word.

July 23, 2007 - The flyer and registration form for the September 16 Draft Workshop are available via the Calendar page or by clicking here.

July 23, 2007 - The Web site is getting bogged down with old files and is in the process of being edited and decluttered. If you note any broken links or missing pictures, please notify the Web Editor at carol@pvbmdc.org. Many thanks!

July 17, 2007 - The Mason-Dixon BMD Rescue Organization is having a fundraiser this coming Saturday, July 21, from 9 to 6, at the 4 Paws Spa at 121-A Industry Lane, Suite #1, Foreset Hill, MD 21050. Call 410-420-2311 with questions. Pat Long will be taking pictures and the wash tubs are available to get those four-legged kids pretty for the posing.

July 17, 2007 - Sincere thanks to Valerie Chase for all the hard work she did for our Supported Entry and Potluck Lunch on the 8th. From hosting the Sweeps judge to handling the details of renting the pavilion and organizing and presenting the trophies, it was a top-notch job. Thanks also to Val's husband, Bill Johnson, for coming to the show grounds to wisk the Sweeps judge back to the airport for her afternoon flight. And to all the helpers who helped clean-up after the picnic, a big round of applause for your efforts.

July 16, 2007 - From Barbara Yoder - This w.e. proved to be pretty good for two of our guys. Ingrid was entered in the Shawnee show on Sat. and went Winners Bitch (WB) and Best of Opposite (OS) for 1 point. This Cindy/Nico daughter is getting herself together and gaining confidence in the show ring. We are hoping this will mark the beginning of more conformation successes.

Just up the road from the show, the Border Collie folks were hosting a "Canine Fun and Fitness" event forcused on working activities for dogs, plus info on health and nutrition. They were also offering "Herding Instinct" tests for anyone interested. As Cindy was showing a great deal of interest in the sheep, decided to sign her up. Boy, did she have fun chasing! The fellow guiding the test was impressed with her level
of interest and more importantly, her willingness to take direction from him.

So Cindy has now found a new passion--herding--and we will soon receive her certificate in the mail. Remains to be seen whether Mom can find any time to pursue
some training in this new event...one step at a time..

Best, Barbara

July 16, 2007 - Congrats also to Valerie for Dude's Best of Breed win on Sunday in Berryville over two other campaigning specials. Nice to see our PV dogs in the Group ring.

July 16, 2007 - Belated congratulations to Brenda Bernard for her great weekend at the Southern Maryland shows. Abby (Keilissa's Touch & Go) was Winners Bitch and Best of Breed at the Saturday show and Toby (Keilissa Unleashed) was Winners Dog.

June 11, 2007 - From Andrea Stefanac

Just wanted to send a big thank you to Valerie and everyone else involved with organizing the PV supported entry and meeting this past weekend at the Howard County shows. We had a great time visiting with friends and watching the dogs. Unfortunately we weren't able to stay for the meeting since Chris had to be at work that night.

June 29, 2007 - Bob Reeve phoned home this morning from the Bel Alton shows to report that he and Loki had completed their third leg in Novice A obedience and taken 1st place in the class. Congratulations to Georgeann and Bob and new Companion Dog Loki, Santera Nordic Crossing, CD, RN, CGC.

June 26, 2007 - A big WAHOO to Andrea and Chris Stefanac on Barkley's (Ch. L-Sin's Dark Blue Moon, CD, RN, NDD) Best of Breed and Group 4 win on Sunday at the Richmond show. Way to go, Bark! Look how happy mom is as she gets a hug from her buddy.

June 19, 2007 - Robin Kelly sends along the link for the Willem Wijnberg Cancer Fundraiser (http://bernese.biz/CancerFundraiser5.htm). This is a great opportunity to contribute to cancer research for Bernese Mountain Dogs and, at the same time, enter a drawing for some fantastic prizes. Check it out.

June 14, 2007 - Our thoughts, love and prayers go out to Katherine Skerl who lost her beloved Zoro suddenly on Tuesday. We've celebrated along with Katherine many show wins and new titles of this young dog this year and it's hard to believe he's gone. Zoro was co-owned by the Yoders who brought him here from Switzerland not quite four years ago.

June 10, 2007 - Some more good news from the Yoders. The weekend of April 21, Lana finished up her Rally Advanced title with 89 points at the Saturday trial. Nico got the first leg of his Rally Excellent title the same day with 87 points, and on Sunday, April 22, at the Watchuing Club's Draft Test in Bethlehem, Pa. he finally passed the Open test earning the Draft Dog designation. The same weekend Katherine Skerl's Zoro, co-owned by the Yoders, picked up his second and third Novice obedience legs, which completed his Companion Dog title. CONGRATULATIONS!

June 4, 2007 - A huge thanks to Jack & Maria for once again hosting the June Fun Day which was held at their mountain home this past Saturday. We had a smaller than usual crowd, but even so the pot luck lunch was more than ample, with a good variety of scrumptious dishes. After the business meeting, members and guests enjoyed walking the trails, attempting the agility course or just relaxing and chatting with old friends. We welcomed a guest from New Jersey who is looking for a puppy, and Heidi & Krista Rohrbach from Ottawa, Canada who were staying with the Lingleys while on holiday. The Rohrbachs breed Bernese under the Bernina kennel prefix, and Krista, who has handled two dogs to the #1 spot for BMDs in Canada, gave an impromptu ear grooming lesson on Maria's Justin. Maria and Jack's new puppy, Maggie, was a hoot to watch negotiate the agility tunnel. A future star for sure! A cloud burst chased everyone to their cars around 3PM and a few of us sought refuge in the Crifasi's RV until the storm passed. Thanks again, Maria and Jack, for all your hard work on our behalf. It was a great day!

June 4, 2007 - The lost Berner was found this morning. Sadly he had been killed by a car. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his breeder and owner. This boy had just begun his show career this spring and was the pride and joy of his family. Go hug your Berners and check your gates.

June 3, 2007- URGENT! A Berner boy has wondered off from the pet sitter in Springfield, Va. His owner lives in Vienna and is out of town but flying home tomorrow to help search. If anyone can help look for "K2", please contact Lisa Ebnet at ebnetbmd@comcast.net.

May 28, 2007 - Jack & Maria Crifasi helped their beloved Daisy to the Bridge this morning. If you read the Berner-L you know that Daisy was Maria's muse, the star of Daisy's Tips, a continuing humorous saga of life with a very special Berner girl. Daisy was also Jack's agility instructor, and delighted in humbling him in the ring, but rarely failed to bring him immense pride with her natural talents on the courses. We will all miss Bedro's Cinnamon Daisy, OA, NAJ, OAP, NJP, and send our heartfelt sympathies to Maria and Jack. See the Memorials page for Daisy's picture and tribute.

April 25, 2007 - Looks like we're going to have great weather for our Walk on Sunday. We'll meet at the Monocacy Aqueduct access to the C&O Canal at 1PM. The trail is flat and shaded. Directions are here.

April 9, 2007 - Sad to share the news of the passing of one of Joyce Dickhoff's beloved dogs, Ch De-Li's Cast a Magic Spell (Magic). Magic was co-owned by Joyce and Lilian Ostermiller. Joyce showed Magic to his championship before he went to live permanently with Lilian. Magic was especially attached to Joyce's daughter Jacquie when he was a pup, and he flew to her arms as he left this world on the third anniversary of her death on April 1st. We've posted Joyce's tribute to her friend on the Memorials page.

April 9, 2007 - Georgeann Reeve shares good news this morning -- a boy she bred and co-owns, Brightwater Where the Heart Is (Zhivago), finished his Canadian Championship yesterday at the Kiwanis Cluster in Surrey, British, Columbia with a Best of Breed win. A double bonus to a good day, Brightwater's No Apology V BJ, (Wolly), co-owned by Georgeann with Pat Mills, took Winners Bitch and Best Opposite Sex at the Chesapeake Kennel Club show. Now that's the way to have a Happy Easter!

April 9, 2007 - Congratulations to all who had successful walks at the March Madness obedience and rally trials at the Howard County Fairgrounds March 30 - April 1. Valerie and Dude completed a CD title, and Barbara Yoder and Nico finished up their Rally Advanced title. Barbara also had two successful Rally Advanced runs with Fulani. And in looking through the posted results, we discovered Hayfields Grand Brooknoll, RA, owned and handled by Jan Westenmeyer and co-owned by Janet Grandstaff, won the Rally Excellent A classes at the Friday and Saturday trials! Katherine Skerl and Zoro qualified for their first Novice leg on Saturday.

March 29, 2007 - Our service provider was having problems over the weekend which prevented updates to the site, although the site was accessible online without interruption. Please note the updates below. (Editor)

March 28, 2007 - Update on Food Recall

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/17813260/

Most of you are probably aware of this, but in case you aren't, take note of the article above.

Best, Barbara
Lindenhof BMDs

March 22, 2007 - Our best wishes to Norb Novocin as he recovers at home from neck surgery.

March 22, 2007 - A new champion! Zoro zum Durstigen Bruder, co-owned by Katherine Skerl and Barb & Steve Yoder, won in North Carolina for the last point needed to finish his title. Yaaaaaaaay!

March 19, 2007 - Congratulations to PV members who picked up legs and titles at the Dog Owners Training Club of MD at Howard Co Fairgrounds over the weekend. Valerie Chase's "Dude" finished his Rally Excellent title out of the Excellent B class, and also picked up his second companion dog leg. Bob Reeve and "Loki" qualified in Novice A for their second CD leg. Barbara Yoder's kids, Nico and Lani, both completed their Rally Novice titles.

March 6, 2007- IMPORTANT NOTICE. Saturday's (March 10) event at Joel and Jeanne's has been cancelled. Information about rescheduling will be posted when available.

March 5, 2007 - We were shocked to get the news a few moments ago that Robin Kelly had to help her beloved Juniper (Hayfield's Grand Juniper) to the Bridge this morning. Please keep Robin in your thoughts and prayers as she grieves for her special friend. See the Memorials page for his tribute.

March 1, 2007 - Congratulations to Buck Sykes who competed in Novice B at the Greenville KC Obedience Trials with Ottavia Vom Worblental, RE, TD, and qualified three times in a row with two 3rd placements and a 2nd place, and scores of 194, 194 & 197.5. Another title for young Tavi - CD, Companion Dog. We missed Buck at the Specialty last weekend, but since he had already gotten that CD, and had been accepted in a Tracking Dog Excellent test that Sunday, we forgive him for standing us up. At least we got to visit with Priscilla and meet the new pup, Robyn, latest Berner member of the Sykes household (and congratulations, Priscilla, for Robyn's placement in her class at the Specialty, owner handled).

March 1, 2007 - Valerie Chase will be conducting a Draft Workshop for beginners, INDOORS, at a heated agility facility, on Saturday, March 17, in BelAir, Maryland, from 10AM to 3PM. To help offset the rental there is a $15 registration fee. If it is not freezing, practice outside is possible as the dogs progress. FMI: vchase529@att.net.

February 28, 2007 - Sweepstakes results are posted on the Specialty page.

February 28, 2007 - I am thrilled to announce my girl "SPIRIT" winning the First AWARD OF MERIT at the specialty on Sunday under judge George Heitzman !!
I want to thank the club for this extra special show and to the sponsors of her Award plaque. BEST IN SPECIALTY SHOW CHAMPION WITCHWAYS NATIVE SPIRIT, C.G.C.
owner : Doreen Zimmerman :>)

February 26, 2007 -

Congratulations and thanks to Jack and Sue and all the great committee heads and workers for another fantastic show. What a super crew for hanging in there during the ominous weather predictions and deepening snow. As it turned out, staying until the end paid off as the roads were in great shape later in the day, at least down in our neck of the woods. I saw a post from Maria who was enjoying her Cabernet as she typed, so knew the Crifasis had made it up their driveway.

The catalog ads looked great, the trophies were wonderful, ways & means looked like it was doing well, the crowd for the raffle drawings was huge (good sign), the volunteer lunch was yummy, as always, the food concession outside appeared to be doing a good business, the grooming area was set up well and it and the vendor area seemed much more spacious this year. Everything appeared to be running smoothly at the ring, and I know if there were problems they were handled quickly with a smile.

Take a bow, everyone. WE DONE GOOD!

February 19, 2007 - Hi All, Just wanted to pass along some good news on our pups.
This past weekend we participated in two days of Obedience/Rally trials down in Roanoke, VA. Our little Ingrid (from the I litter), in her second formal obedience trial ever, qualified for her first "leg" toward her Companion Dog obedience title (CD) with a
4th place finish of 180 1/2 points (out of a possible 200; 170 minimum needed to qualify). The second day, unfortunately, did not yield a qualifying score, which I chalk up to a young dog needing to gain more confidence through ring experience.

Meanwhile, her father, Nico, and her 1/2 sister, Lani, qualified both days for two "legs" toward their Rally Novice titles, with scores of 93 (Nico both days) and 85 and 90 (Lani) out of a possible 100 (a minimum of 70 is needed to qualify; Lani's first day score was
affected by my mistake at one of the stations, which resulted in a 10-point deduction). Even though Nico and Lani already have their CDs, I noticed that they were a little rusty going into these events (not to mention their handler...!). Since this is a working breed, I believe occasional forays back into the performance ring helps keep them mentally sharp and focused on learning new things in different environments.

But we're also happy to get potential titles out of these educational experiences!

Best, Barbara
Lindenhof BMDs

February 5, 2007 - Good news from Barbara Yoder -- Ingrid Ida v. Lindenhof, half sister to Heidi who died suddenly in November, picked up her first point in Florida on January 13, her second birthday, in Brooksville, Florida by going Winners Bitch and Best Opposite Sex. And Zoro Zum Durstigen Bruder, who is co-owned by the Yoders with Katherine Skerl, got his second major on January 18 by going Best of Winners for four points. Zoro only needs one more point to finish his championship. Congratulations! How nice it would be to be sitting ringside at a nice warm dog show today!

February 5, 2007 - Reminder -- The Specialty Photo Contest closes on February 16. Be sure to get your entries in. Details are here.

January 22, 2007

Hi all,

I sent the following email a few weeks ago and wanted to send it again to remind everyone of this very fun event.

I have also been contacted by Ken of the Classic K-9s Extreme Team that Chris and I are part of. If there is anyone that is fairly local to the Baltimore/Timonium Maryland area that has dogs that are experienced in basic agility or jumping, we would love to have you join the team for any/all of the 3 days this weekend. (See the email below for a link to the Expo site that tells the event times) This is a lot of fun. There is a small A-frame, a couple of tunnels, and some low jumps. No teeters or dog walks. We'd love to have any dog- purebred or mixed breed of any size- all are welcome. Or if you are entered in the accompanying AKC agility trial and would like to join us, that would be great too. For more information on the group, visit http://classick9.com/. This is a very laid back group. Free food and drinks.

Also, if any of you are very local, the group will be doing television appearances early on Friday morning. You would need to be there by 5:30 am because the LIVE tv shoots are at 6, 7 and possibly 8 am. I'm not sure what tv stations will be there, but for those of you that live in the area, be sure to watch the news tomorrow. I'm not sure that Chris and I will be there with our Berners for the tv shoots, as that would mean leaving our house by at least 2:30 am and we were not originally planning on that.

If anyone is interested please give me a call on Chris' cell phone- 804-347-0452. You can also send me an email.

As for everyone else, we really hope to see you there! Be sure to come over and say Hi after the Classic K9 shows. :-)

Cheers,

Andrea Stefanac

& Chance CD NDD RN

& CH Barkley CD RN

& Dakota the wonder mutt

Richmond, VA

January 22, 2007 - Thanks to everyone who came out to support our Winter Warm-Up this past Saturday. It was a fun event with lots of activities, wonderful food, and ample social time. Thanks to Sharon Hasenauer for treating us to those big pots of steaming homemade soups, crackers, cakes and all the trimmings, and to Bob Reeve too who stirred up one of his special homemade soups to share. The Club meeting was informative, and we thank our Officers and committee chairs for their ongoing efforts on behalf our Club. The afternoon practice sessions in Conformation, Rally and Obedience were well received, and we appreciate Sandy, Valerie and Carol's guidance in the three rings. Most of all we want to recognize and thank the Winter Warm-Up event chair George Hasenauer for all his efforts in making the arrangements and working out the details for the day. WELL DONE, GEORGE!

January 15, 2007 - I wanted to publicly thank the PVBMDC for its generous donation to Wags for Hope. Donations such as these allow us to continue to do what we do best. Here is a snippet from an email I just received from one of our volunteers just a few minutes ago. It is a great representation of what is going on inside our group:

...I then went looking for our 101 yr old friend on the B Wing but he had already gone to church services. Annabelle [THE LONG-HAIRED DACHSUND] and I went to the church services and she curled up and snoozed in our friend's lap. He said he had missed us since we missed the last couple of weeks since going to LA. His daughter was w/him and she thanked me for visiting him. I can't wait until next week-end to go back.

Again - thanks so much and we'll see you all at the Specialty Show.

Gabe O’Neill
President, Wags for Hope

January 12, 2007 - Our best wishes for a speedy recovery go out to Janet Grandstaff who is undergoing surgery today at Winchester General. Janet will be convalescing at home after a few days in the hospital. She has our thoughts and prayers.

January 7, 2007 - Buck & Priscilla Sykes' TAVI has added two more titles to her name. On October 7, she picked up her third qualifying score in Rally Excellent, and on November 5, she earned a Tracking Dog title. Let's see now, that makes her Ottavia vom Worblental, RE, TD, JHD, CGC. A big handle for such a youngster. Congratulations!

January 6, 2007 - The Dawg Wash, a self service dog wash located within a mile of the Frederick Fairgrounds, has offered extended hours on February 23 & 24 to accommodate PV Specialty attendees who want to do some last minute grooming prior to showing on the 24th & 25th. They have everything you need to get those coats sparkling -- from shampoo and conditioners, to forced air dryers and grooming tables. The shop owners are very friendly and have a large Berner clientele. You don't need to be chagrinned by clumps of Berner fur flying through the air, they handle the clean-up too! Well worth the reasonable $14 charge. Read more at www.thedawgwash.com, where you can even prepay and save $2. (Note the Berner pictured in the site mast head is PV member Brenda Bernard's "Haddie".)

January 4, 2007 - The Holiday Inn Frederick-Holidome & Conference Center is offering a special rate for PV specialty attendees. Check the Specialty page for details.

January 3, 2007

Hi guys, Thought some of you may be interested in this-

World of Pets Expo

Timonium, MD (north of Baltimore)

January 26-28, 2007

http://www.worldofpets.org/

This is a very fun event with tons of things to see and do. Check out the various parts of the website to see the different shows and speakers (including Jon Provost- "Timmy" from the original Lassie tv show). There is also an AKC agility trial held in the same building. Agility is always exciting to watch and this is an excellent opportunity to see it. This event has a little bit for everyone- there are cat events, reptile and bird info and demonstrations as well. (Dogs are not allowed in the cat area)

There is an admission fee and parking is free. Well mannered dogs are allowed, though I will tell you from experience that you are likely to enjoy this event much more if you are not having to attend to your dog at the same time. There are A LOT of people that attend this event. Chris and I will be there as part of the Classic K-9s Extreme Team (see the Seminars/Entertainment page). Our Berners are members of this team and they have a lot of fun performing. Chance usually pulls his cart in the opening sequence.

Hope to see lots of Berner people there!

Andrea Stefanac

& Chance & Barkley

Richmond, VA

January 2, 2007 - The 2007 PV Specialty Premium List has been mailed. If you need a copy, go to www.raudogshows.com/shows/February/PVBM.pdf. For more information on the Specialty, click here.

January 1, 2007 - HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL OUR BERNERS AND THEIR FAMILIES!

December 31, 2006 - A big Berner hug to Kasey Von Engel for her super weekend at the Virginia Beach shows. On Saturday, December 16, Barney (Von Engel's Ya Gotta Love Him) finished his Championship by going Best of Winners. At that same show, Von Engel's Pucker Up (Smooth) was Winners Bitch for 2 points. The following day, Kasey and Smooth were placed over three Specials for Best of Breed and a 3-point major! Way to go, Kasey!

December 21, 2006 - Season's Greetings from Robin Kelly. Click picture for full size.

XMasPix2006.jpg (827802 bytes) "Juniper, Josie & Robin would like to wish the members
and friends of PV BMD Club a safe and happy holiday
season"

December 13, 2006 - The Board met this week and worked out the Events Calendar for 2007. Please check the Calendar page and make note of the dates. Notice that there are several functions that need someone as Chair. This is your opportunity to step up and help your club. Operators are standing by, as they say. Give Jack a shout at jack@pvbmdc.org to volunteer. Previous chair persons will be most happy to help, so don't be afraid to give it a try.

Remember, club dues are now payable. Notices were mailed to every member. The due date is January 1, so don't delay getting your checks to George. While you have a 60 day grace period for payment, you may not vote on club business until your 2007 dues are paid.

December 13, 2006 - It's time to catch-up again.

- Deepest sympathies to the Yoders who lost their lovely, homebred girl Heidi (Heidi Havaa v. Lindenhof, RN, CGC) suddenly one morning late November when she was struck by a car after straying off her property just a few moments after being let outside for her morning potty break. Heidi was well along the way to her AKC championship, lacking only her major wins. And just the weekend before the accident she had earned two legs toward her Rally Advanced title at the shows in Salisbury, Maryland. This was a very young dog, full of life and promise. As Barbara said, "Give your dogs a hug and send up a prayer of thanks for their presence in your life. It can all end in an instant." Barbara and Steve, we are truly sorry for your loss.

- On a much happier note, Barbara Yoder & CH Brenna's Cindy V Lindenhof, DD, RA, on December 2 at the Catoctin Kennel Club Obedience Trial picked up their third leg for Cindy's Companion Dog (CD) title. This title makes Cindy eligible for the BMDCA Versatility Award, the second one this year for the Yoders (Nico completed the requirements earlier in March of this year). Congratulations for all the hard work these titles represent!

- Also at the Catoctin trials, Bob Reeve and Loki picked up their first Novice A leg, winning their class and going high-scoring Berner on Sunday. Valerie Chase and Dude also qualified in Novice B on Sunday for Dude's second CD leg. On Friday, Dude qualified for his second Rally Excellent leg.

- At the National Capital show on November 27, Valerie Chase's Dude was Best of Breed. Kim Elksnis' Pablo won Best of Breed on November 26, December 4 and December 9.

- Doreen Zimmerman is justly proud of her Spirit (Ch Witchway's Native Spirit, CGC) who made the long trip to the AKC-Eukanuba National Invitational Show in California with her handler Jaime and won an AWARD OF EXCELLENCE. Spirit is ranked the number two Bernese bitch in the country which earned her the invitation to the Classic.
Doreen says, "I am so proud of Spirit for representing the East Coast."

November 29, 2006 - Congrats to all these hard-working dogs and handlers!

Valerie Chase & CH Owl Branch's Double Whammy, RA (Dude) - Best of Breed wins: Middleburg KC, October 29; Black Mountain KC, November 4, National Capital KC, November 27. And Dude's sister Tart, Owl Branch Tart of Darkness, was awarded Best of Breed over brother and other specials at the Salisbury KC show on November 10.

Paul Rosbolt & Rosewall's Tyr of Jamar, CD (Tyr) - Completed his Companion Dog Excellent (CDX) title on November 26 at the Upper Marlboro KC show. Tyr's average score for his three CDX legs was a fantastic 190.5!

Brenda Bernard & Keilissa's Touch & Go (Abby) - Best Puppy in Salisbury on November 11.

Andrea Stefanac & Santera Shot In The Dark, CD, NDD, RN (Chance) & CH L-Sin's Dark Blue Moon, CD, RN (Barkley) - at the Virginia Beach KC show on November 9, both boys finished their Rally Novice (RN) title. Bark finished with a 4th placement to boot.

Barbara Yoder & CH Brenna's Cindy V Lindenhof, DD, RA, finished her Rally Excellent title at the Middleburg KC show, plus earned the first two legs of her Companion Dog title with a 4th place the second day. AND Ingrid Ida V Lindenhof, RA, finished her Rally Excellent title in Salisbury on November 13.

Kim Elksnis & Alpenspirit Paint The Sky (Pablo) took Best of Breed and a Group 4 at the Sandusky show on November 16 and was BOB again on Nov 26 at the Upper Marlboro show.

Matt Korotki & Snowking's Bold Lightning placed first in Junior Showmanship Novice Intermediate at the Laurel Highlands show in Cumberland in October. Matt just needs one more win to move to Open.

Robin Korotki had both the boys, Lightning & Stormy (Snowking's Magical Storm), in Rally Novice in Cumberland. Lightning earned his RN title and 4th place on one day and took 1st the next day when Stormy finished his title. Storm placed 2nd both days.

November 14, 2006 - Our friends at Mason/Dixon BMD Club sent this announcement to the Berner-L. Sounds like fun.

Our Berners have been invited to participate in the 2nd annual Westminster Holiday Parade on November 25, 2006 at 4:00pm!! This is a small town parade which will only be about 1 mile in length and no hills. We will be having a truck with an open bed that is decorated, and will be walking with our dogs (also decorated if possible!). At the end of the parade, we have also been invited to go to the park for the official lighting of the trees. This is a great way to get Berners together and show the community what wonderful dogs they are! There will be photographers for the local papers, in addition to radio announcers.

All participants will need to be at the site by 3:00pm, and the parade will start promptly at 4. For more information, or to sign up for the parade, please contact Mary at mmswissgold@verizon.net, or Sue at berknees@yahoo.com

What a great way to start the holiday season - hope to see you there!

November 4, 2006 - You missed a great time if you weren't at the gathering in Leesburg today. A BIG thanks to Georgeann & Bob Reeve for hosting around 30 members and guests at their gorgeous new abode. Gabe O'Neill gave a very interesting talk about his Wags For Hope therapy dog organization. Lunch was superb, as always with our group of talented cooks. The meeting agenda was packed and we had some good discussions on a myriad of topics. There were no nominations from the floor, so the slate as presented by the Nominating Committee will be elected at the December meeting. Thanks to everyone who made it a fun day. Wasn't it a beautiful day for a ride in the country!

Our next event is the Annual Meeting, Auction & Holiday party on Sunday, December 10 in Point of Rocks. Click here for more information.

Please support the 2007 Specialty with your Catalog ads. Go here for details.

October 23, 2006 - Wendy Keene's Klarsson (Kasablanca's Making Thyme RN) earned his first Rally Advanced leg today at Merrimac Dog Training Club in Hampton, VA. He took his time getting through the course but it was worth it for the resounding applause that he received from the crowd at the end. Yaaaaay, Klarsson!

October 19, 2006 - Catch up time for some well-deserved brags.

Congratulations to Barbara Yoder who trekked to the Watchung Draft Test on Oct 7 with Cindy and came home with a new Draft Dog (DD) title. Barbara continues her Rally adventures too: September 29, Heidi completed her RN with a 4th placement, and Cindy took a first in Rally Excellent that same day for her first leg in Excellent..

At the Warrenton and Old Dominion Shows, Zoro zum Durstigen Bruder, co-owned by the Yoders and Katherine Skerl, went Winners Dog at the Friday show and Best of Winners on Sunday, two points each.

Paul & Robin Rosbolt's - At the Old Dominion show on October 1, Paul and Tyr (Rosewall's Tyr of Jamar, CD) won the Open obedience class with a score of 195.5!!! WOW!

Brenda Bernard's puppy girl Abby (Keilissa's Touch & Go) has started a nice collection of purple ribbons in conformation. She was Winners Bitch and Best Opposite at the Old Dominion show on October 1, and WB/BOS at the Catonsville show last Saturday and repeated the same win on Sunday at the Maryland KC show.

And what a weekend Valerie Chase's Dude (Ch. Owl Branch's Double Whammy RA) had at the three shows at Howard County Fairgrounds - Best of Breed all three days!! Valerie says "Now if he could just get a few more green ribbons [in obedience]."

October 8, 2006 - Drafting is all about team work, and what a team our club has when it comes to putting on an event. Today's Draft Test was beautifully run by Valerie Chase, Draft Chair, and her band of merry helpers. Thanks everyone who helped with preparations, lunch, stewarding, etc. The weather couldn't have been any better, and the site worked quite well despite the competing marathon event and the sodden, muddy trails, victim of two days steady downpour. About 40 people came out to work, participate or just watch and support the dogs. Congratulations to Katherine Skerl and Victoria (Victoria V Adlerhorst)) on passing the Novice test for a new NDD title. Barbara Yoder and Nico made a valiant effort, and after successfully pulling a 90 pound load up the sloppy trail, had the misfortune to have an equipment failure just a few yards from the finish resulting in a DQ for the run. Jack Crifasi and Justin also made a good attempt, and will no doubt get that title next try. The Draft workshop that followed the official test drew a nice crowd and everyone was excited about what their dogs accomplished in just a short time. We hope all will keep practicing and eventually pursue draft titles. Thanks again to Val for her hard work in pulling everything together for today. A super job!

September 27, 2006 - Four dogs have entered the PVBMDC Draft Test on October 8 and will be tested in the morning beginning at 9AM. After the noon lunch break, draft judges Chris Mann, Jenny and Jim Durrance will conduct a draft workshop open to all breeds with a $10 pre-registration fee which includes handouts and instruction on borrowed equipment. See the flyer for more information (click here). Contact Valerie Chase at valerie@pvbmdc.org with questions.

September 25, 2006 - Doreen Zimmerman's "Spirit" (Ch. Witchway's Native Spirit, ) had a good day at the Valley Force KC show yesterday by going Best of Breed. Way to go, girl!

September 20, 2006 - This just in from Joyce Dickhoff. Last night at 4H in Westminster, Md., Amy Briggs and Hagrid (Ch. Witchway's The Sorcerer) passed the Canine Good Citizen's test which confers the CGC designation to Hagrid. Steven Briggs also passed the test with Casper (Ch. Witchway's Friendly Ghost), and Ellie Nave successfully navigated the ten-step test with JEB (De-Li's It Can't Be True) who she co-owns with Joyce. As Joyce says, "Great kids working Berners!"

September 20, 2006 - Our friends at Mason-Dixon BMD Club are holding a conformation match and dog walk this coming Sunday at Spring Valley Park in Glen Rock. You can access the flyer here.

September 20, 2006 - Barbara Yoder was out working her dogs in Rally at the Dog Owners Training Club in Lynchburg, Va. this past weekend. Congratulations on the new Rally Advanced title on Cindy who scored 91 in the Rally Advanced A class on Saturday for her second leg, and 94 and 3rd place for her 3rd leg on Sunday. Barbara also had nice walks with Ingrid in Rally Excellent A on Sunday with a score of 94 for second place and her first Excellent leg, and sister Heidi made it through two rounds of Rally Novice A for two legs toward her RN title.

September 20, 2006

From: Jack Crifasi, President, PVBMDC :

Potomac Valley BMD held a very successful Fall Sanctioned Match with Conformation, Obedience and CGC events and lots of entries. This annual match is always a favorite, and this year was fantastically successful. Detailed results are available by clicking here. The Board of PVBMD and I congratulate everyone who participated, and thank you for coming.

I want to personally thank Kathy Donohew for accepting the Match Chair job this year, providing planning and leadership for the big team of volunteers that was needed to make the match work well. With people like Kathy and her team stepping up to volunteer for our club events, our club continues to demonstrate why it is one of the strongest Regional BMD clubs in the country.

Well done, volunteers!

Jack

September 18, 2006

Thank you, Kathy Donohew for all your hard work as 2006 Match chair. It was another delightful day in the park with the Berners. A lot of people got up very early to open the grounds, take entries and to steward. Our volunteer judges, Linda Carney, conformation, and Lamar Solomon, obedience, did a great job. We had a CGC test running concurrently with the Match thanks to Pat Mills who came up from Annapolis to do the testing (all four dogs tested passed.) Carmelita White pulled out her mother's favorite recipes for pulled pork barbeque and coleslaw and made enough for an army. It was wonderful! The raffle table gets bigger and better every year. The humans were hoping the sun would come out; the dogs were happy it didn't. It was a great day.

There were a total of 41 entries. Ten obedience entries, 16 puppies, 9 adults, 2 vets, and 4 juniors. Best Puppy in Match was Von Engel's Imagine The Fanfare, owned by Sherry Von Engel. Best Adult in Match was Von Engel's Catch the Wave, owned by Wendy Keene & Sherry Von Engel. Best Junior handler was Kelly Coton with Ch. Ahquabi's Dancer of Doriath. High In Trial went to October's Smokestack Lightnin', owned by Valerie Chase. Click here for full results.

September 1, 2006 - Hey you Working Dogs, we're looking for your entries for the PVBMDC Draft Test coming up October 8. Entries close September 21, so don't delay. If you're on the fence about signing up, please let Valerie know for planning purposes. Drafting is a wonderful tradition in our breed. Let's keep it alive! If you have questions or need help training, Valerie is the one to see. (vchase529@att.net) Remember, this test is open to all breeds. If you know of dogs who can work in harness, tell them about this opportunity to test their dog's abilities.

September 1, 2006 - From Barbara Yoder - "Heidi once again had a good weekend up in Springfield, MA this past weekend (8/25-27), going WB/BW on Friday, Reserve on Sat. and WB on Sunday. Her half brother, Ivar Ing v. Lindenhof (Doolin, owned by
Dan and Sandy Burke in NY, and littermate to Ingrid) won on Friday and went Reserve on Sat. and Sunday. Heidi now just needs 2 majors to finish her championship. But the best news goes to Dr. Bev Arnold, Atlanta Georgia, who finished up her boy, Hanflorian Georg v.Lindenhof on Sunday, August 27 down in Atlanta at the Conyers KC show. Han is a brother to Lani and was probably in the ring not long after his sister
delivered 8 healthy pups!"

August 27, 2006 - This just in from Dorrie Zimmerman, Ch. Witchway's Native Spirit, CGC, (Spirit) was BEST OF BREED on Saturday at the Mid-Susquehanna show. Way to go, Spirit!

August 22, 2006 - Brenda Bernard had a great weekend at the shows in Easton. Her puppy Abby (Kelissa's Touch and Go) at her first show, having just turned six months last Thursday, was Winners Bitch and Best of Winners on Friday, Winners Bitch and Best Opposite Sex on Saturday and Reserve Winners Bitch on Sunday. Abby's housemate, Toby (Kelissa Unleashed) has to brag too. He was Winners Dog on Friday, Reserve on Saturday, and Winners Dog, Best of Winners on Sunday. What a weekend for Brenda!

Barbara & Steve Yoder's Heidi Havaa V Lindenhof picked up another point at the Annapolis show in Easton on Sunday going Winners Bitch and Best Opposite. She also reserved on Saturday. In the Rally Obedience ring, Barbara and Cindy (CH Brenna's Cindy V Lindenhof) got her first leg in Rally Advanced, and Barbara and Ingrid (Ingrid Ida V Lindenhof, RN) picked up her last two legs in Rally Advanced for her RA title.

August 20, 2006 - Congratulations to the Yoders on the wins by Heidi Havaa V Lindenhof at the Salem, Virginia shows earlier this month. Heidi, coming off nice placements with competition in South Carolina, went over the boys the first three days in Salem for Best of Winners and Best Opposite, and Winners Bitch on Saturday and Sunday. Zoro Zum Durstigan Bruder, also owned by the Yorders and co-owned by Katherine Skerl, was Best of Winners at the Salem Saturday show. And congrats also to Valerie Chase for Dude's (CH. Owl Branch's Double Whammy, RN) Best of Breed win in Salem at the Sunday show.

August 1, 2006 - From Valerie Chase - Draft Committee Chair

The premium list is ready for the Club's second All Breed draft test Sunday, October 8, 2006 at Kemptown Park, Monrovia, MD 21770, just 5 miles off I 70 between Baltimore and Frederick, MD. see http://www.co.frederick.md.us/parks/kemptown%20maps.htm. This is a new site for us, with rolling hills and two covered pavilions. While first spots go to Berners with Swissies getting second preference, the test is open to all breeds that are willing to pull a cart or other conveyance. Go to the www.bmdca.org site for current draft regulations and information on carting. The premium list is available by clicking here, or email Valerie for a copy which may not be mailed until after August 20 so don't worry (vchase529@att.net).

The judges are Christine Mann from CO and Jenny Durrance from SC. The site is about three hours from the Watchung draft test site in PA on October 7, 2006.

Volunteers are NEEDED. Contact Val to see how you can help. It's always a fun day!

July 22, 2006 - The Mason/Dixon BMD Club invites all their BMD friends to their tailgate picnic following BOB at the York Kennel Club show tomorrow, July 23, where they are supporting the Berner entry. Sweepstakes starts at 8:30 followed by regular judging at 9:15. The judging program and directions to the show are available at www.raudogshows.com.

July 22, 2006 - Andrea Stefanac calls our attention to DUAL AKC AND APDT FUN MATCHES in Fredericksburg, Va. tomorrow, July 23, at the Pup 'N Iron Canine Fitness & Learning Center, 21 Perchwood Drive, Unit 111, Fredericksburg, VA 22405 (one hour north of Richmond, 45 minutes south of Washington, DC). Indoors with a/c. AKC Match begins 9:00 a.m (entries accepted from 7:30 to 8:30 a.m. only). APDT Match to follow, no earlier than 12:00 pm (entries accepted until 11:00am. only). For directions and more details here's the web site: www.pupniron.com

July 18, 2006 - From Brenda Bernard

Hi All - I wanted to let you know that Checker, CH. Wyemede's Checkered Flag, passed away on Friday evening July 14, at 9:30 PM. He was with me and my family who loved him dearly. He went peacefully; he died the same way he came into this world, as a gentleman. He made my job easier even at the end, I did not have to make the choice. He was such a joy and died way too young. Up to a few days before he died, Checker would hear me get home from work and come to the door and bark. His bark will be greatly missed--he sounded like a seal, and how he could bark and hold his toys in his month at the same time was amazing. He would grab whatever he could, pillows, blanket, toys, and with his tail going, he waited to be kissed on his head. I tell you this was the hardest thing to go through and he will be greatly missed by all. He tried hard to teach manners to the other dogs but none will be the gentleman he was. I want to thank Julia and Elizabeth Crawford for trusting me with this great gentleman. One day we will all be together again. I love you Checker.

July 18, 2006 - We were sorry to learn that Sarah Ward lost her Berner boy, Kadoo's Mongo McWoof on July 5 at 8 years of age.

July 10, 2006 - The Club is once again indebted to Valerie Chase for her huge effort pulling together all the pieces for the supported entry at the National Capital Kennel Club show yesterday at the Howard County Fairgrounds. From judges to trophies, from soup to nuts, Valerie did an extraordinary amount of work to make it a very enjoyable day at the dog show. THANK YOU, VALERIE! And thanks to everyone who stayed to help clean up and re-pack Valerie's car. Hope she had help when she arrived at home. What a load!

July 8, 2006 - Carol Lundquist and her wonderful Dyna finished her Herding Ranch Dog 1 title at the All-Breed AHBA Herding Trials in Virginia. on July 1 - 3. She is now Car-Rae's Dynasty DeGrasso, CD, RE, NAP, NJP, JHD-s HRD-1. On the first day of the trial, Dyna completed her HRD-1 title with a 6th place and a score of 84 (out of 90 - 15 dogs entered). The next day she improved to 5th place and a score of 86. Then on Monday the trial was for HRD classes only as they increased the flock size to 25 sheep. Dyna was a "superstar" (as her mom calls her) and took FIRST place and had a score of 89 out of a possible 90. Her competition included Border Collies, Tervs, PW & CW Corgies, Shelties, and Rough Collies. Congrats to Dyna and Carol!

July 4, 2006 - Buck & Priscilla’s (TAVY) -- Ottavia vom Worblental RN CGC JHD-s finished her Junior Herding Title on Sunday, July 2d at Keepstone Farm, Berryville VA. Wow, did she surprise her dad. She looked great … kept the sheep together, followed Dad and the Sheep easily around the ring (always at a walk, wearing the sheep to keep them together and staying at a stand when Dad asked. As they returned to the pen, the judge asked Buck to back up and have Tavy gather the sheep and bring them to him again. On command, Tavy backed up about 15 ft. Buck walked out beside Tavy and then asked her to ‘Go Bye’. Tavy walked around the Sheep, without startling and causing them to run, pealed them off the gate and brought them to Buck. She then sat on the far side of the sheep with a big Berner Smile while Buck returned to open the pen’s gate. Then she stood and slowly stepped-in to drive the sheep into the pen. She was absolutely terrific!!! And, since she was born on May 9, she earned her JHD-s Title at less than 14months of age.

Sorry we will miss everyone for the July shows, but we are certainly going to try and get back to see you all later this year.

Buck & Priscilla

July 3, 2006 - Valerie Chase writes, "On July 3 October Smokestack Lightnin' CD NDD RAE added a 2 behind the RAE. In the last three weeks she has gotten the seven legs she needed indoors and outside, in blistering heat and pouring rain. At Bel Alton she took three 2nds, one 3d and one 4th place, putting up scores of 94, 95, 96, 96, 96, 96, 96 and 97 for her most consistent work yet. Her son, Dude, squeaked out the last leg of his RA (he melts in the heat) and her hairless daughter, Tart, took RWB the one day she was shown."

Congratulations to Valerie and all her kids! Valerie says she is looking forward to sleeping past 3:45 am again.

And we also heard from Barbara Yoder with an update on her furry family. "Our three adult Berners have been taking it easy during the summer heat, but the two young ones, Heidi and Ingrid have been burning up the competition so to speak. After a long break from the show ring, Heidi is back out there showing in conformation. Last weekend she took Winners for 1 point (her first) and this week she was Reserve on Friday. There are still the Howard Co. shows to go this week, so we'll see if her good
fortune continues. Jo Ann, our handler, says she's showing like a "special" (a dog who already has a championship title)--i.e. with a good bit of flair and confidence, so we'll see if that translates into more points soon. Her younger sister Ingrid made her debut this weekend in the Rally Obedience ring and came away with a new Rally Novice (RN) title (yesterday, after three qualifying scores) and the first "leg" on her Rally Advanced title today with a 4th place." Congratulations, Barbara!

July 2, 2006 - Ring times for our supported entry at the National Capital KC show on Sunday, July 9 are 8:00 a.m. for Sweeps and 8:45 a.m. for Regular Classes. All judging is in Ring 5. If you want to watch Berners at the other three shows in the cluster, here are the times:

Thurs - Ring 1 - 9:30 (31 dogs) Fri - Ring 7 - 8:30 (30) Sat - Ring 7 - 8:30 (37)

July 1, 2006 - We send heartfelt sympathy to Carmelita and Dick White today on the passing of their girl Katie (Dogwood's Jewel In The Crown). The beautiful Katie wowed the crowd at the 2001 PVBMDC Specialty as Carmelita handled her to Winners Bitch. It seems like yesterday. Everyone go hug your Berners in Katie's memory. The years go by much too quickly. Katie's loving tribute from her family is posted to the Memorials page.

June 25, 2006 - Two members picked up new titles at the Virginia Kennel Club show yesterday in Richmond. Congratulations to Sherry & Kasey Von Engel on their new Champion, Trillium Chocolate Mousse V VonEngel who won his final major with Kasey at the helm. Meanwhile in the Rally ring, Bob Reeve and Loki (Santera Nordic Crossing) picked up their third leg to finish Loki's Rally Novice title (RN). Super!

June 19, 2006 - The National Capital Kennel Club will be holding a Canine Good Citizen's Test in conjunction with their all-breed dog show on July 9 at the Howard County Fairgrounds in West Friendship, Maryland (Routes 70 & 32). This is the show where PVBMDC is supporting (providing trophies) the BMD entry. If you would like to try for a CGC designation on your dog, testing will be done between the hours of 8AM and Noon. Pre-registration is not required. Because this is an AKC show, only purebred dogs will be tested. Dogs must be a minimum of six months of age and current on inoculations. Bring a brush for the grooming segment of the test. Entry fee is $5. For more information, e-mail Liane at toflaki@msn. com or Al Ferruggiaro at alf198@yahoo. com.

June 18, 2006 - Members who stayed late at the Fun Day on June 3 had the opportunity to meet a fine old Berner man by the name of Sammy (Moonkatch Sam Eduardoa Bipaco), owned by Ana Colon. Born 5/12/95, Sammy celebrated his 11th birthday this year. Sadly we later heard from Ana that her beloved companion for all those years passed away on June 6. We send our condolences to Ana and salute the special devotion she and Sammy had for each other.

June 16, 2006 - Congratulations to Matt Korotki for recently finishing 4th out of 18 in Obedience at the Wills Fair with a score of 189. He followed up that nice placement with an 8th place out of 19 in fitting and showing and 4th in juniors at the Carroll County show. Now for the school brags: highest average in math for the entire 7th grade, academic excellence awards in math, RLA, social studies and highest final grade in science, highest grade in RLA and awards for chorus and community service and for 4 quarters on the honor roll. We join with his family in congratulating this fine young man on all his achievements!

June 15, 2006 - Reservations are now being accepted by the Host hotel for the 2007 National Specialty in Louisville, KY. You can get the details from the 2007 BMDCA web site at http://www.bmdca.org/specialty/2007/index.php

June 10, 2006 - Announcement from the AKC

This e-mail is to give you advanced notice of a survey that AKC will post and link to its website on Friday, June 16^th (survey open until 4pm eastern time on Friday, June 30^th). The purpose of the survey is to gather information on juniors in companion events (obedience, agility, rally, and tracking), specifically how we might make such competitions more inviting for our young fanciers and why they are not more present in these events. http://www.akc.org/kids_juniors/index.cfm?nav_area=kids_juniors

If you have an opinion you would like to voice on this subject, please feel free to e-mail or call me. Survey construction will end on Thursday, June 15^th, so please contact me before then if you feel you have a concern that should be considered for inclusion in the survey.

We greatly appreciate your help in reaching out to our young fanciers and welcome any questions or comments you may have.

Brandi L. Smith , AKC Summer Intern, bls@akc.org, 919-816-3933

June 9, 2006 - From Barbara Yoder. Another update on Lindenhof's senior gal: Yesterday (June 4), Cindy completed her third qualifying round of Rally Novice obedience exercises in Charlottesville, VA to earn her AKC Rally Novice (RN) title. This is a relatively new event basically designed as a fun way to master the exercises needed for the formal obedience (Companion Dog--CD) title. It's a lot of fun, with course design always different, and challenges dog and handler to think on their feet.

Way to go Cindy!

June 5, 2006 - From our friends at Mason/Dixon BMDC. Brenda Bedrosian will be hosting a chiropractic clinic on Friday, June 9th. Mandy Armitage will be adjusting dogs from abou