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CLUB BULLETIN BOARD
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March
6, 2010 - From Jennifer
Donnelly -This
year The Potomac Valley Bernese Mountain Dog Club hosted a new
format for their Specialty--Back to Back Specialty Shows--and WOW,
what an event!
I
was honored to be asked to chair this event and had a lot of fun in
the process. What makes
an event of this magnitude so special are the volunteers that take
the time to dot all the I’s and cross all the T’s .
As early as February 2009, Sherry Von Engel and Julie Barry
were working on trophy donations and selecting the trophies for the
winning dogs. Thanks so
much to everyone who donated -- everyone loved the trophies!
Valerie Chase, as always, wears many hats--from Rally Chair
on Friday, to ensuring the grounds and grooming space were
meticulously organized for the weekend. And thanks to the many
hands that helped Valerie set up on Friday -- George Hasenauer, Dave
Burgan, Bill Johnson, Beki & Gary Gieseke, and others that I've
probably missed. The Foellmers did a wonderful job with the Judges'
lunches and then stayed to the very end on Sunday to help with
clean-up--so appreciated! Thanks
to Joel Mazelis for PV Ways and Means and for running the photo
contest, and to Jeanne Stillson and her crew (Julie Wolf, Kristina
& Devon Reichenbach) for the great Raffle, and to everyone who
donated raffle items. Thanks to all who volunteered at the
Information table -- Beki Gieseke, Becky Braukus, Marcy Maycock;
also to Georgeann, and Bob Reeve along with Kate Perry and Dot
Decker who did a great job preparing the reception on Saturday; to
Jack Crifasi and Christine Haggard for volunteering to work as
Obedience stewards, and to Pete Williams and Bill Davis who cleaned
the Obedience building on Sunday; to Sharon and George Hasenauer who
provided lunches for the volunteers to keep them going; to Carol and
Ken Lingley for helping set up and more importantly tear down and
clean up; to Sandy and Norb Novocin for hosting and transporting
judge Maija Heinila (and thanks, Bob Reeve, for driving her to back
to the airport on Sunday), and for Sandy's hard work on the catalog
ads--and thanks to all who placed those great ads!; and to Elinor
Abrell for the hours spent both days in the conformation ring as
chief steward, and her assistants Sandy Novocin, Carol Brown and
Kathy Donohew. To everyone who helped fold and stack the
tables and chairs, pack-up the PV equipment, empty the trash, push
brooms and operate the mighty shop vac at the end of the show on
Sunday, thank you, thank you!
And
I'd like to give special thanks to Kate Perry, Show Secretary,
who helped make both shows perfect and my job a lot easier.
Many thanks to EVERYONE who contributed to making this Specialty go smoothly. I have heard wonderful feedback from many of the exhibitors and spectators alike . Everyone that helped deserves a big round of applause.
Jennifer
Donnelly-Schoffstall
March 3, 2010 - Sending out a big hug to Matt & Robin Korotki this morning after learning that Lightning, UKC CH Snowking's Bold Lightning, RN, has died. Matt and Lightning were able to share a final weekend at the PV Specialty in Junior Showmanship, and Lightning took a spin with Robin in the Veterans parade. The bond between a boy and his dog endures all things; we know Matt will have life long memories of his beloved dog. Lightning worked hard for Matt, but he was also Robin's heart dog. All the best to everyone in the Korotki and Genendlis household. See Lightning's tribute on the Memorials page.
March 3, 2010 - From Gary Gieseke
I just wanted to take some time to express my thanks for the over whelming support and kindness that has been shown our family since the loss of our home and our beloved dogs Bernie, Tummy and Posh. As you sift through the remains of a burnt house you find charred items that bring back memories of happier days when our dogs were still with us. Their favorite squeak toy or the ripped open 50 pound bag of dog food that every Berner dog owner knows about and has always complained about being so heavy.
My wife volunteered me for chores at the specialty show on Feb 19-21 but I must say I wasn’t sure I was ready to go,
the hurt was still there. I was very pleasantly surprised and appreciated the words of comfort and support given to us by club members and total strangers after they saw my wife’s name tag. I would be lying to say that I was not extremely jealous of everyone who had a Berner there, I missed my buddies. Many club members gave me the
“keys” to their dogs for a “Berner fix” which made the whole weekend special.
As we left the show Sunday and were driving home I commented to my wife that it was the first time in weeks that my cloths didn’t smell of smoke and ash, but of dog. I pulled off on the side of the road and pulled some Berner hair off my shirt and we both began to cry. I said I’m tired of being sad were getting a puppy!!!
My thanks goes out to everyone in the Berner community both local and worldwide, you have made this hard time in our lives just a little easier.
Sincerely
Gary Gieseke
February 26, 2010 - Thanks to Specialty photographer Dawn Gabig, pictures of the winners last weekend are now linked to the Specialty Page.
February 23, 2010 - From the Berner-L
February 23, 2010 - Update on Robin Rosbolt
Two members that were sorely missed at the Specialty this weekend
were Robin and Paul Rosbolt. Always loyal supporters of this event,
Robin's continued hospitalization and Paul's dedication to be at her
side precluded their attendance this year.
We were pleased to get the following update from Paul yesterday:
"Robin is in the Specialty Hospital of Washington's SW DC
location--in the old Hadley Hospital at 4601 MLK Jr Ave SW
(Washington, DC 20032).
It's been a long road for Robin. Major abdominal surgery on the 17th
of Dec; has been slowly recovering ever since. She is still on a
ventilator, and still has a large incision in her abdomen that is
being allowed to heal naturally. Probably a month yet to get her off
the vent, and then some in-patient PT after that.
We are still in our house in Springfield. We have purchased a house in
RI, but have put off the move until Robin is ready to travel. She is
continuing to improve, but probably faces another couple of months as
an inpatient, then several months of at home convalesence before she
is close to 100%."
We learned that Robin celebrated her birthday this past Saturday. Mail
from her PV friends would surely brighten her day.
February 22, 2010 - From Marcy Maycock
Hi All,
I have not been an active member over the past 5 years or so, but decided to help out at the Information/Education Table on Saturday morning with my 8 ½ year old boy, Zeus. Georgeann asked me to put a poster together of the volunteer work we do for Montgomery County Mental Health Association’s Pets on Wheels program…so I ran out and bought poster board, printed out photos during my lunch hour, and showed up with my gorgeous but ungroomed dog and my art project.
It was a pleasure to see everyone again, and meet some new nice faces. We are one of those “pet” members who were treated like everyone else…a welcome smile and a pet on Zeus’ giant head. I am glad to reconnect with the Club and hope to volunteer again. It was nice to talk to potential future Berner folks at the table, and more importantly, to show them what everyday Berners look like…and act like! So thank you PVBMDC for treating us with kindness and grace. It really means a lot to us.
And Beki…my heart goes out to you. I enjoyed working with you at the table and hope to see you again!
Respectfully,
Marcy
February 22, 2010 - Posted to the Berner-L
I wanted to thank the (Potomac Valley) club for putting on a really
nice specialty, its the first time I have been at the shows in some
years, and I thought the show was really nicely done.
Great trophies, plenty of grooming space, enough seating for everyone,
good vendors.
Congratulations on a great job well done.
Thanks again..
Sue Adams
Glory Days Bernese Mountain Dogs.
February 22, 2010 - From Valerie Chase
I was chair for the Rally trial on Friday night and
would like to say a big thank you to the folks who were the stewards.
Three of the 4 had never done Rally or even seen it but they all did a
great job. I knew that they were all smart professional folks who would
"get it" with little help from me. We had a great friendly,
funny judge who had me set up the ring which was the only technical
thing to be done. Julie Wolf had been draft secretary (when she hadn't
done draft) so I knew she could excell at the judging books as table
steward. Cindy Deoudes was gate steward, making sure folks knew to get
to the ring on time, Mike Secreast was honor steward for the Rally
Excellent classes and then took first place in Rally Novice A and Beki
Gieseke was the timer. Time in rally is used to break ties so each run
has to been done carefully and then communicated to the table steward.
George Hasenauer comes in early Friday to help me set the crate space.
He is so patient with my dithering when I change things from my map.
Then the club members just come and set things up. Too many for me to
keep track of.Dave and George and Ken are among the guys who kept saying
how many tables do so and so get but there were a dozen other people
working too.
And I can't even begin to list ALL the club members who pitched in and
cleaned up the main building. It is amazing to me that all that stuff
just disappears! Ken L and my Bill made many trips to the dumpster! By
5:30 when Rau left, it was polished. Georgeann and Kate even cleaned the
bathrooms. THANK YOU ALL. I would never agree to be responsible for the
site if I didn't know what great folks we have in the club. And for all
of us who scrubbed the floors where those awful little leaking silver
trash cans were, we are NOT having those next year. The fair maintence
men hate them too. And a special thank you to the folks who policed the
distant grounds with poop bags in hand to clean up after the slobs. And
to my Bill who set up and cleaned up the poop area - we are leaving the
x pens and fence posts out to weather for a while!
And thanks to Pete and Bill for cleaning up the obedience building! You
didn't see them but they were a huge help to me as it was a new project
which I hadn't planned for ahead of time.
I had a ton of folks come up and say nice things about the show and the
club. You guys make it work! In some clubs only the "show"
people show up to work. PV has great members: show people and pet people
and obedience people. And Kate - do you even have a dog? You were show
secretary - a tough behind the scenes job, helped set up, cooked and set
up for hospitality and the reception (great brownies), cleaned up the
grounds and building. I hope you know how much we appreciate your help.
Thank you all from the site, rally and poop chair,
Valerie Chase
February 15, 2010
- The Trophy Committee would like to thank everyone for their
generous donations towards trophies for our upcoming Specialty.
During the Specialty in February, we will have the pledge book
available for next year’s trophies.
Because many people do like to support the same trophy each year,
we want to let them have this opportunity.
If you would like to sponsor the same trophy for 2011 as you did
for 2010, please email either Sherry or Julie prior to Feb
19th. We will
put your name down for the trophy and then those remaining classes will
be available to all at the Specialty.
Thanks again for everyone’s support!
Sherry Von Engel
February 9, 2010 - Jack & Maria Crifasi wisely headed to Atlanta last week and missed all the joys of shivering and shoveling in the snow of the 2010 Super Storm. Adding to the pleasure of a few days in the sun, their Berner boy Justin picked up his final major conformation points on Saturday at the Conyers Kennel Club of GA by going Best of Winners and is now CH. Bedro's Justintime V Greenway, NDD, CGC. Congratulations! and have a safe return trip to Maryland.
January 30, 2010 - A big thank you to Sharon & George Hasenauer for chairing another great Winter Warm-Up this afternoon. We were delighted that so many braved driving through falling snow to attend (and weren't we surprised to see the predicted dusting turn into a rather significant, DC wise, snowfall). The soups were wonderful, thanks to cook Sharon and also Bob Reeve, and the desserts tasty, and no doubt, calorie free. During the general meeting members voted to accept Jan Burgan as a new member. Welcome, Jan! Following the meeting, Val Chase provided a Rally Course for folks to try, and Sandy Novocin gave a brief lesson on Conformation handling. Everyone seemed to be having a great time, especially those puppies! Thanks to all for another spectacular PV event.
January 21, 2010 - With our show just 30 days away, Georgeann sent the following message to the various E-Lists. This also serves as a reminder to all Club members to get revved up for three-days of working together to welcome Berner enthusiasts to our event. If you need to enter your own dog(s), here's a link to the premium notice -- http://raudogshows.com/pdfs/upcoming-shows/PV%20Berner.pdf
Reminder, our Potomac Valley BMD Back 2 Back Specialties close in less than 2 weeks as this is a new show weekend, 1 week earlier than last year. Why is this a new show weekend? Basically, the Maryland Dairy Association(MDA) has a lot more cows than we have berners - not really, the MDA has held their show at the Frederick Fair Grounds on the 4th week of Feb for many years. When AKC adjusted the show weekends back this year, our schedules collided. The MDA won as they use the WHOLE fairgrounds. :) So don't forget to send in those entries, Schedule Friday -- evening - Rally - Pizza dinner Saturday -- Morn Hospitality,Obedience, Sweeps, Jr Show & Conformation Evening Reception Sunday -- Jr Show & Conformation - Morning Hospitality We will have a hot food vendor onsite selling snacks, beverages and sandwiches. Our judges are: Friday Rally & Saturday Obedience - Mr David W. Haddock, Nashville, TN Saturday Sweepstakes - Ms. Sherri Starbird, Dover-Foxcroft, ME Saturday Jr Show - Ms. JoAnne Buehler, Darnestown, MD Saturday Conformation - Ms. Maija Heinila, Revetal, Norway Sunday Jr Show & Conformation - Ms. Denise Dean, Parks, AZ Cash prizes for Saturday - HIT $300, BOB - $300, BOS - $200 Cash prizes for Sunday - BOB $300, BOS - $200 PLUS OUR USUAL ARRAY OF QUALITY TROPHIES & Rosettes FREE reserved grooming space - contact Valerie Chase valerie@pvbmdc.org by Feb 5, 2010
January 18, 2010 - From Beki & Gary Gieseke
Gary
and I would first like to thank all the members of PVBMDC for their
overwhelming generosity, kind thoughts and support during this time of
loss. The loss of our two
boys, Bernie and Tumi, has been devastating to us, and especially for my
husband. Our boys were
Gary’s best friends! He
couldn’t wait to come home from work and see them everyday!
And this from the guy who I had to beg, plead, kick, and scream
to let me get my first Berner! Gary
was never a fan of big dogs and he REALLY did NOT want to get one…but
after months of relentless nagging, he finally gave in!
And before I could turn around…Bernie was HIS dog, not mine!
The night of the fire, Gary burned his arm and hands trying to
get them out of the house and save them.
Once they were out, he gave them mouth to mouth and CPR trying
desperately to save them! As
much as we miss them, we know that they are in a better place, and we
will always have them in our hearts and memories.
We will be looking for a new Berner puppy in a few months, once
we get our lives back under control and can have time to focus on a new
baby. In the mean time,
please keep us in our thoughts and prayers.
Again, thank you so much for your generosity in our time of need.
Beki Gieseke.
Words
cannot begin to explain the pain of losing my best friend-Bernie and his
little side kick Tumi. Each
night before we went to sleep the big fella (Bernie) would jump up on
the bed and say goodnight, then skulk into the cool tiled floor of the
bathroom, for his long nights sleep. Because of my work scheduled I have
to arise at 3:45 and prepare for work.
Needless to say Bernie did not share the same schedule, and
rarely got up, let alone wake up with me.
Usually opening an occasional one eye as I came into the
bathroom, as if to say “do you know what time it is, go back to
bed!” I used to say
“don’t worry old man I’ll step over you”.
I can remember a number of times cutting myself shaving when a
shocking sting of an ice cold dog nose brushed against the back of my
leg, after he realized that the lights were going to stay on for awhile!
At that point, would disappear into the darkness of the bedroom.
As I put on my uniform, there he was in all his glory, all four of his
legs straight in the air, flat on his back, in the warm spot of the bed
that I had just left.
A
piece of my heart was taken from me when our home caught fire last week,
fire does not discriminate it burns everything including hearts and
cherished photos and memories. As a fire fighter was leaving our
destroyed home I saw what appeared to be blue piece of material stuck to
his boot as he walked towards the engine to leave.
As he passed me, it fell off of his boot and I reached for it,
only to find it was one of Bernie’s first place ribbons from a dog
show in North Carolina. The big fella was watching down from somewhere,
making sure that even though I was devastated, I still had a great
memory of our time together. Thank
you every one at the PVBMDC for your thoughts and prayers during our
time of tragedy. LT Gary
Gieseke
January 10, 2010 - Update on the Giesekes -- Today, Georgeann visited with Beki & Gary and found them handling things as well as one could given the circumstances. They, of course, miss their dogs terribly, but are consoled by many happy memories of good times they had with them. They are appreciative of all the kindnesses they have received from their friends and neighbors. Please continue to send positive energy their way as they go through the difficult process of inventorying their physical loss and rebuilding their home.
January 9, 2010 - The Planning Booklet for the 2010 National Specialty has arrived. If you didn't get a copy, you can view it online at http://www.2010bmdspecialty.info/forms_and_documents/Planning_Booklet.pdf
January 7, 2010 - Introducing the newest member of the Just Say Berners pack: Just Say Cast a Spell (Potion - female) born on November 1, 2009 to my Xoie (Magic Mtn's Xoie v Adlerhorst CD RE CGC TDI) by Mo (CH Von Engel's Devl'N Disguise). Look for her in the rally ring at Nationals and future performance venues! Bred and owned by Wendy Keene
Wendy Keene Just Say K9 Sports
January 7, 2010 -
The Mason Dixon BMDC annual health clinic is this Sunday, Jan
10, 2010 in Lancaster Pa. at the Kaye Ames School for Dogs. Check out http://www.mdbmdc.
January 6, 2010 - This morning brought the terrible news that members Beki & Gary Gieseke suffered a tragic house fire last night that took everything, including their beloved dogs. We don't have much information as yet and, of course, we will keep the membership informed as we learn of what might be done to help. Meanwhile, please keep these folks in your thoughts and prayers as they work through their shocking loss.
January 4, 2010 - A sad start of the New Year for the Barretts who lost their almost nine-year old "Annie" on New Year's Day. Please think of Peggy & Jim as you read their heartfelt tribute to their friend on the Memorials page.
January 2, 2010 - Last call for catalog ads. Don't miss the opportunity to be part of another PVBMDC landmark when we hold our first back-to-back Specialty in February. The show catalogs are keepsakes and the dogs pictured over the years help us recall the wonderful exhibits we've had since 1998. Get your ad to Sandy Novocin before the end of the day Monday (e-mail her - sandy@pvbmdc for details). This is your chance to brag about your special friend and to make them part of the breed history.
January 2, 2010 - from Jack and Maria Crifasi - We are proud as can be of our little Maggie, who has had a spectacular performance year in 2009. Maggie finished all her legs for CD (Companion Dog), NAP and NJP (Jumpers and Standard Agility Novice Preferred), OAP, and NDD (Novice Draft Dog). She now has the BMDCA Working Dog title! Thanks to Joyce Dickoff for this fantastic girl!
December 20, 2009 - Happy sledding! Some updates: There are only 14 more days to get your ad for the Specialty catalog to Sandy Novocin (sandy@pvbmdc.org). (Due January 4, 2010). Remember, there are two holidays and two weekends in that timeframe where there will be no mail delivery. Ads are a very important way to support the Specialty as they help pay the superintendent fees, including the cost of the catalog and all the paperwork they do and for the equipment we rent from them. Sandy will help compose your ad if you need assistance. Write her soon and let her know you intend to send something.
Here's a note from Joel Mazelis - "Thanks for your get well card. The surgery went better than expected and I am recovery nicely. I am able to get aournd on a walker and the doctor gave me the OK to drive. I hope to get back to back to work part time next month. . ." Great news, Joel!
Latest news we have on Robin Rosbolt is that she is holding her own in Intensive Care after emergency colon surgery. Our thoughts and prayers are with her, Paul and the kids.
December 15, 2009 - From Joyce Dickhoff - THE PVBMDC Calendar
December 14, 2009 - From Sherry Von Engel - What an exciting week-end. We showed in Va Beach this past week-end. Kasey did a fantastic job showing our 6 month old boy puppy Von Engel's Zactly Right v Meadowgate at his first week-end out. He was WD/BOW & BOB over a group placing special both days!! out of the Bred-By Class. We co-own him with my good friend Janet Cornell, who also co-bred him with us...Janet owned my Fridge's brother "Shoe" and my Sybil's brother "Harry". Sybil is the proud grandma to this new little boy.
December 13, 2009 - Thoughts and prayers go out to Robin Rosbolt who is in ICU with cardiac arrhythmias and breathing difficulties. Latest word from Paul is she is slowly improving but not out of the woods yet. Not sure which hospital or if they are here in No. Va. or in Rhode Island. Will update this list when more is known.
December 13, 2009 - The December newsletter is in the mail. All photos can be enjoyed in color on the Gallery Page.
December 13, 2009 - From Herb Hoffman-
Hi All - I just completed the video of our Holiday Party and put it on YouTube.
The internet address is below. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YRoanN6b800
If you want to see the other videos that I've done of the Crifasi fun day and
the Reeve meeting and lunch, just go to www.youtube.com
and search for herbhof and you will be taken to the page where my videos are
listed.
My apologies to Joyce. I misspelled her name. I checked all the wording twice,
but I didn't catch it. Sorry Joyce.
Best,
Herb
PS: I didn't use political correctness and called it a Christmas party. Sorry
Robin, Saul and Elaine (actually, I don't think you are the ones who would
complain anyway - I wish Saul a Happy Hanukkah and he wishes me a Merry
Christmas). But the reason we have a party is because it is the Christmas
Season, not the 4th of July or Thanksgiving.
December 6, 2009 - A big thanks to Joyce Dickhoff for a fabulous holiday party and the wonderful calendar of Potomac Valley member Berners! I can't wait to get my copy. Joyce, you rock!! A big thanks to Norb and Sandy -- the auction was such fun!!! And thanks to all the members for your support --we had a huge turnout with tons of deeeelicious food and wonderful treasures for the auction. I am still smiling! Thanks to the Board for your hard work and dedication.
December 6, 2009 - Ken left at 9:15 for the CKC building to open up and turn on the heat. We'll see everyone soon.
December 3, 2009 - JINGLE BELLS, JINGLE BELLS. . .HERE HE COMES. . . No, not the guy in the red suit, but our very own jolly elf, NORB! Once again, Norb will be taking bids on all the fabulous donations members are bringing to the Holiday Party this year. PLEASE REMEMBER TO BRING YOUR DONATION OF A BERNER RELATED ITEM (OR NOT) WITH YOU ON SUNDAY, DEC 6.
Also, we're collecting items for the Frederick Emergency Food Bank for the pets of Frederick County. Unopened bags of food, canned food, (dog & cat food), kitty litter, treats, toys, towels, crates, cages, etc. If everyone brings just one item to the party on DEC 6, we should have a nice pile of things to help pets remain with their families during these difficult economic times.
We are so very grateful for all the hard work Joyce Dickhoff does each year to make a happy time for all at this final event of the year. Please support her endeavors by bringing something yummy for the lunch table. And be sure to let her know how much you appreciate her every effort.
Joyce has a wonderful surprise planned for door prizes this year. BE SURE YOUR TICKET (PICKED UP AT THE PARTY) GETS IN THE DRAWING!
The gathering starts at 11AM (building will be available by 10:30), and we'll be diving into the food table first thing, so don't be late! A brief pause in the frivolity required by our By-laws, i.e. our Annual Meeting and election of the 2010 Officers & Directors, begins at Noon. Immediately following, let the "Wild Rumpus Start" as Norb & Sandy conduct the always fun Annual Auction to benefit PVBMDC's Rescue program.
SEE YOU THERE!
November 19, 2009 - Herb Hoffman has put together another YouTube presentation, this time of the photos he took at last Saturday's meeting at the Reeve's. Here's the link. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fMdZjpCq3-E
If you want to see both of the videos he made of Club Meetings (Fun Day at the Crifasi's and this latest one), go to YouTube.com and search for herbhof, which is the name Herb uses on YouTube. That will take you to his page where the videos he has uploaded are listed.
Thanks, Herb. These are great!
November 18, 2009 - From Joyce Dickhoff - Attention all Breeders Please send me any new puppy people that you would like for me to invite to our December party this is a great way to have them meet the members of the club and see how much fun we can have and learn something about our club. I will be very glad to send out the flyer and hope they come and join us. If you are a new owner and would like to come and meet a lot of other Berner lovers and owners please e-mail me and I will drop a flyer in the mail. Thanks Joyce joyceD9@aol.com
November 14, 2009 - Today's meeting was a sure cure for the blahs brought on by this week's seemingly interminable Nor'Easter. We thank Chef Bob for the wonderful beef and chicken, and Hostess with the Mostess (not many of you remember Pearl Mesta, right?) Georgeann for all her efforts that made for a very relaxing afternoon for those of us who like nothing more than eating while talking Berners with friends. We had a good crowd including several first-time guests. We welcome John Moriarty back into the fold (finally got that vote done!) and also Elaine & Bill Lawrence to the membership.
Thanks again, Georgeann & Bob. It was a great day!
November 9, 2009 - Sadly, another loss to report. Owl Branch Saddle My Pony CD RN, Sadie, bred and owned by Valerie Chase & Bill Johnson crossed the Bridge last week. Sadie had lived with Valerie and Bill for several years, but they sent her on a mission to console the owners of one of her siblings, and she enthusiastically joined her new family on many great adventures. Please take a moment to read Sadie's tribute on the Memorials page. It's been a rough month for Valerie & Bill and we send them our sympathy and wishes for all good memories.
October 31, 2009 - From Maria Crifasi -
October 22, 2009 - Due to a conflict with the January cluster at the Howard Couty Fairgrounds, PV's Winter Warm-up event has moved to January 30. Please make a note on your calendar.
October 17, 2009 - Ooops, we forgot to mention that Joyce Dickhoff's new champion Glory (see below) was awarded Best Opposite Sex two days at the Howard County shows. Sorry about that Joyce!
We'd also like to extend congratulations to club friend Brenda Bedrosian who finished her Gracie, Zurich Spirit In The Nite V Bedro, at these same shows. Nice work!
October 7, 2009 - Our world is diminished by the loss of Valerie Chase's boy Dude, CH Owl Branch's Double Whammy, CD, RE, on Tuesday. We knew it was coming but always a blow to the heart when these sweet guys cross the bridge. Our thoughts are with Valerie and Bill today as they adjust to Dude's absence and the hole he has left in their lives. Please check the Memorials page for their tribute to their friend.
October 1, 2009 - More good news from Joyce. Glory went on to finish her championship and is now CH Witchways Too Hot To Touch. Congratulations!
September 28, 2009 - From Joyce Dickhoff
September 24, 2009 - Condolences go out to Dick & Carmelita White on the loss of their Berner girl Saraphina last Saturday. Where do the years go? Seems she was a puppy a whole lot less than nine years ago. Please take a moment to read Carmelita's tribute to Sarah on the Memorials page.
September 13, 2009 - From Joyce Dickhoff I would like to thank everyone that made yesterday such a big success -- from Georgeann (event chair) to our judges. I came with three puppies and two kids from the 4H program and each one was helped by the judge to understand showing better. One of my 4H'ers had never shown at a Match or point show before and with her first experience in the ring she improved with each class she did. My goal was to have fun and if you did that was all that was important. These kids did a great job and they did have fun so again Thank you to all who made yesterday such a nice day. It was good to see new faces and a new bunch of very cute dogs. I also want to thank the weather man for not raining on our parade.
September 8, 2009 - A very happy 12th birthday today to Santera Shot In the Dark (Chance) owned by Andrea & Chris Stefanac.
September 7, 2009 - From Maria Crifasi
Jack and Maggie had a fine agility weekend at the Morven Park in Leesburg, VA. On Saturday , Sept 5, Maggie earned her first leg in Open Standard Agility Preferred with a clean run and a first place. Sunday, Sept 6 was even better. Maggie earned her second leg in Open Standard Agility Preferred with another clean run and a first place. She went on to earn her second leg in Novice Preferred Jumps and Weaves with another clean run and a first place.
September 3, 2009 - From Joyce Dickhoff
The End of Summer
August 25, 2009 - Sherry Von Engel asks club members and friends of the club to contact her soon with pledges of 2010 trophy fund support. With our new commitment to add a second conformation show to the February Specialty, your support is more important than ever. In order that all supporters are listed in the premium notice and catalog, Sherry needs to hear from you as soon as possible.
August 21, 2009 - Our thoughts are
with David & Cheryl Casnoff as they mourn the loss of their Berner boy
Bailey who died on the 17th. Cheryl has written a nice tribute to
Bailey which is posted on the Memorials
page.
August 5, 2009 - Our heart felt sympathies to Georgeann and Bob Reeve on the sudden loss of their young boy, CH Brightwater's Monte Carlo Grande Prix, on Monday, August 3. Monte had just had his third birthday on July 16. He finished his championship at our Specialty in February where he was awarded Winners Dog. He will be missed by the Reeves and his many caretakers and friends. As Georgeann said, "Everyone loved Monte -- there was so much to love!"
July 7, 2009 - Herb Hoffman created a You Tube video of pictures taken at our June 7 Fun Day. He did a great job! Go have a look at. . . http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g3BdaVQovss&feature=channel_page
July 7, 2009 - Thanks to everyone who turned out for the picnic on Sunday and to Valerie Chase who organized the event, from trophies to desserts. Congratulations to Sherry & Kasey Von Engel on their Best in Sweeps win with Von Engel's U Da Man, to Robin & Matt Korotki and Snowking's Bold Lightning, RN who was Best Veteran in Sweeps, and also to Joyce Dickhoff and grandson Steven Briggs whose girl Evil (Witchways A Little Bit Evil) won Best of Breed and made the cut in the Working Group.
Highlights from the July 5 general meeting:
The 2010 Specialty will add a second conformation show for back-to-back point shows. Jennifer Donnelly-Schoffstall is chair and will need lots of help. It's not too early to sign up. Sherry Von Engel, assisted by Julie Barry, is well along the way in obtaining trophies but needs everyone's support to be able to afford all the trophies necessary for the expanded 2010 venue. Julie is preparing a list and we'll put it on the website so members will know what classes are available.
Rescue: Sharon is in search of a qualified home for a six-year old male. Ellen Miller has met this dog and says he's a love. Anyone interested should contact Sharon at sharon@pvbmdc.org.
New members: Welcome to Pete Williams and Bill Davis who were voted into the membership at the meeting.
By-law change: AKC sent Georgeann a list of required add-on's that must be incorporated when we amend our document to include Juniors.
2009 Match & Draft Workshop: These events are scheduled for the weekend of September 12 & 13 at the Walkersville Community Park. Georgeann is chairing the Match and Katherine Skerl the Workshop. Stay turned FMI.
June 24, 2009 - After taking a long winter vacation from the show ring, Brenda Bernard's homebred boy Will (Cedar Creek's Time Will Tell) didn't miss a beat in Waynesburg, Pa. last weekend. He captured points as Winners Dog all three days entered, and dressed it up with Best of Winners on Friday and BOS each day. Congrats to Brenda and Will!
June 22, 2009 - A big congrats to Maria & Jack Crifasi on Maggie's new Novice Agility Preferred title. Maggie (Witchway to Hearts Delight, CD, NAP) made Jack's Father's Day by not only turning in a perfect run (score 100) and picking up that qualifying ribbon, but also placed first in the class with the highest score and fastest time. Maria reports that Jack is on cloud 9. We can believe that. ;-)
June 9, 2009 - Congratulations to Robin & Paul Rosbolt and wonder boy Tyr (Rosewall's Tyr of Jamar, CDX) on completion of Tyr's Utility Dog title this past Sunday at the Skyline show in Harrisonburg. Tyr scored a very nice 185 and placed first in the class, in fact he was the only qualifier of the six dogs shown in Utility A that day. A UD signifies owner and handler have been doing a huge amount of work. Hats off to Paul & Tyr for this wonderful accomplishment!
June 7, 2009 - Thank you, Maria & Jack for a beautiful, fun event - More than 30 members and guests enjoyed a SUNNY pleasant day at the Crifisi's on Sunday. There was no official dog count, but the guess is at least 25 - 30 Berners were on hand to keep our attention. The business part of the day went quickly, and then there was some serious work done on the delicious dishes everyone contributed. Always a good time on top of the mountain. Thanks so much, Maria and Jack for your hard work and warm welcome!
June 6, 2009 - From Wendy Keene A late brag for Xoie. She completed her CD on April 25, 2009 in Hampton, Virginia with a very nice score of 184. We showed again on April 26, qualified for a bonus leg with our highest score yet of 187 and 3rd place in the class (we even beat out a Border Collie!). That helped Xoie finish her CD in style with an average score of 184.5. This is my first CD and I applaud the hard work of her breeder, Judy Butenas, Adlerhorst Bernese in Longmont, Colorado, for breeding a beautiful girl with so many brains and a super working attitude. I'm proud to introduce Magic Mtn's Xoie v Adlerhorst CD RE CGC.
May 28, 2009 - From Doreen Zimmerman - (click on photo to enlarge)
I want to share this photo of SPIRIT and her puppy bitch with the PV
members.
May 3, 2009 - The Dog Walk has been cancelled for today and rescheduled to next SATURDAY (not Sunday), MAY 9, at 1PM. Same place, so follow the directions on the flyer.
May 2, 2009 - Pictures from the National Specialty now being held in Portland, Oregon, are being uploaded daily by photographer Chris Stefanac. If you want to get a sense of what's happening, check it out at http://www.csphotoonline.com/Dog%20Shows
May 2, 2009 - From Barbara Yoder - Hi Everyone, Just wanted to report that our two youngest Berners from the "L" litter, Lara Lydia v.Lindenhof and Leatha Lorelei v. Lindenhof, passed their Canine Good Citizen (CGC) tests last evening. These Cindy grandkids have retained their puppy exuberance longer than our others and I wasn't sure they would fully cooperate--especially after our experiences in the class the past six weeks. But they did and now can add those letters to their names as well.
April 24, 2009 - The DOG WALK has been rescheduled to May 3. Club members will be receiving a flyer soon which will also be linked to this site. Please check back soon. We'll be walking the C&O canal, a nice flat graveled surface, beginning at the Monocacy Aqueduct off of Route 28 in Dickerson, Md. Each walker is encouraged to go at a comfortable pace for whatever distance is suitable. Bring a bag lunch, chairs, bug spray and water for the dogs. The club will be providing drinks. Questions - contact Brenda@pvbmdc.org.
April 10, 2009 - The news we didn't want to hear. . .
It is with a great deal of sadness to report that Chief was killed on a highway this morning. He was 10 miles south of where he was last sighted on Tuesday afternoon. He had not been reported seen in that area during the entire time he was missing. To get to where he was he had to travel for 7 miles along side of a highway in the desert with barbed wire fences on either side of the four lane road. (for those who know the area, he was found 7 miles south of U.S. 60 on Ironwood and Germann) He did not look like he spent 3 weeks at large. His feet and body were in good condition with the exception of a couple of cuts on the foot pads. We think that a car or truck bumper hit him and he died suddenly. We thank everyone who has sent us comforting messages and ideas about how to search. Our problem was that we never received current information, so we were days or even a week or more in some cases, behind Chief's current location. We had a few people who really spent days and days looking and went way beyond the call of duty. They were wonderful. Thank you again for your kindness, Herb and Sue Hoffman
************************
Our hearts go out to Sue & Herb. They worked so hard to recover their boy and we are so sad it wasn't to be. Condolences also to Joyce Dickhoff, Chief's breeder.
April 8, 2009
Update on Lost BMD, "Chief", in Arizona, Wed. April 8, 2009 Thank you all once again for your comments and offers of help. It has been 19 days and still no Chief. We had four sightings reported yesterday, two of which were 3 and 4 days old. However, the other two were current, one made that morning and the other at noon in the same general area (received about 3 PM). We scoured the area to no avail. We patrolled last evening until we couldn't see much (there are no street lights in most areas) and again this AM at first light before sunrise. The Phoenix CBS TV Channel had us on the 10 o'clock news last night, thanks to Diana Gerba in California and Buck Sykes in North Carolina. We have upped the reward to $1,000.00. We have a display ad in the local area insert (East Mesa/Apache Junction/Gold Canyon) of the Arizona Republic, the Phoenix newspaper. The local BMD Club (Grand Canyon) has supplied people to monitor two far away Animal Control Shelters which lifts a huge burden from our shoulders. We have had some cooperation from the two local once a week newspapers. We had another 1,000 flyers printed. We have been in contact with animal communicators with no concrete results. We seem to be always one step behind and not where he is currently. It is very hard to predict where he will show up next. Thanks again for all your help and thoughts, Herb and Sue Hoffman
*********
We received a personal note from Sue who wishes to convey a sincere thanks for all the notes of concern they have received from PV members. She and Herb greatly appreciate the support during this very stressful time. The Phoenix News ran a story on Chief this morning which you can read via the following link http://www.kpho.com/news/19124172/detail.html
April 1, 2009 - Update on the Hoffman's missing Berner boy - After 12 days of our BMD, "Chief", missing, there is no good news. There have been more sightings, but we are beginning to believe that many of these sightings are not valid because not one of the many people looking have made a sighting themselves. We have distributed more than 700 to 800 flyers, but only received 3 legitimate calls and two crank calls from all those flyers handed out and posted. All of the other sightings were found out by talking to people which takes one heck of a lot of time. We got a call last night after we went to bed and we got dressed and went out on another wild goose chase. This morning we started at 4 am and staked out an area for a few hours where he had been sighted several times. We had placed some food and family material at the spot. We then went to two animal control shelters and found no Chief. We now have to check four shelters every 3 days, because after 3 days the dogs are put up for adoption. If we checked all four shelters the same day it is about 3 1/2 hours of driving time plus the time it takes to go through the shelters. Luckily we have a woman whom we don't even know who checks one of the shelters for us (she is not a member of the local or national club nor do we know if she even has a Bernese). These two 75 year old oldies had to take a nap before heading out again. Tonight we drove around for a few hours in the dark before returning to our RV and fixing dinner. If it sounds as if these two are depressed, you are absolutely right. We think that we have done everything that we could have done with very little success. Another looming date is the date we leave AZ and head home. We really haven't faced that yet. The upbeat side of this mess is the number of people who have nothing to do with the BMDCA or local BMD club but who have given us countless hours looking for Chief. One gal went out last night about 10 pm to check some culverts she spotted in one of the areas where she thought Chief might be spending the night. The local non-BMD rescue people have been wonderful with their Amber Alert and shelter contacts. Many thanks also to each of our BMD friends who have sent words of encouragement and advice. Two gals from California whom we have never met have been trying to get the Phoenix TV news stations to publicize our plight. Old friends Denise Dean and Lori Jodar spent lots of time on the phone giving advice and encouragement from their lost dog experiences. Of course the innocent party in all this is Chief. We feel that he is such a great dog and surely doesn't deserve what he is going through. Thank you all, Herb and Sue Hoffman
March 28, 2009 - The Hoffman's boy Chief remains at large after escaping the groomers in Apache Junction, AZ on March 20. Pictures of Chief and more information about him are at http://bernese.biz/Chief.htm. Please keep up the prayers and positive thoughts for his safe return to his family.
March 24, 2009 - Update from the Hoffmans - Thanks for all the e-mails about our lost BMD. He is still missing. We have had 5 sightings since last Friday when the dog bolted out of the groomer's store. Unfortunately the last sighting was last Saturday going into 3 days. We have put out loads of flyers, but haven't had one call from any of them. The best information results from talking to people on the street, but it is the least efficient because of the very large urban area involved. Leaving our clothing at places where he might be would be like leaving clothing on the streets of NYC. We were up before dawn today and out looking to no avail. I'm going out later after going once again to the local animal shelter and walk and talk to people. It is literally like looking for a needle in a haystack. Thanks again for all the comments, Herb and Sue Hoffman
March 24, 2009 - Lindenhof News - Miss Cindy is in the spotlight again after this weekend: she completed both her Open agility titles at the Mataponi agility trials in Woodbridge, VA. Both runs earned her a first place finish; her jumpers course on Saturday scored a perfect 100 at 6 seconds under the posted time. So she is now CH Brenna's Cindy v. Lindenhof CD, RE, NA, NAJ, OAP, OJP, DD, HCT, VD, WD, CGC. She is in great shape and shows no sign of slowing down, and we're proud that she continues into "doggie old age" (9 years) in style and good form. Best, Barbara (Yoder)
March 23, 2009 - Frightening news from the Hoffmans who are wintering near Phoenix, AZ.
LOST DOG in Phoenix area; 1 PM, March 20, 2009. Our 3 1/2 year neutered male BMD was at the groomers to be bathed when the attendant stepped out of the building and left the door open. Our BMD was in a crate with his collar (and ID tags) removed and bolted out of the crate, out the door and across a busy six lane highway and down an alley. This happened in Apache Junction, AZ. near where we are spending the winter in a RV Park in Gold Canyon, AZ. The Apache Junction Police and Animal Control Dept. have been notified. Our dog does have a micro chip. He was last seen on Broadway, west of Ironwood, heading west on the north side of the street. Four of us have been looking for several hours with no results. If there are any of you out there in the Apache Junction/Mesa area and hear of a BMD roaming around or found please notify (us).
Please send all good thoughts and prayers for Chief's quick recovery. All Berner E-Lists have been notified and many friends and extended Berner families are helping Sue and Herb locate their boy.
March 16, 2009 - Our thoughts are with Jeanne Stillson & Joel Mazelis this morning as they attend to an ill family member. The meeting that was to be held at their home on Saturday, March 21, has been canceled.
March 16, 2009 - Congratulations to Jack & Maria Crifasi on the new Companion Dog title earned by their Maggie (Witchway To Hearts Delight) in York, Pa. this weekend. Jack & Maggie earned their first CD leg at the PV Specialty (their first try), and qualified this past Thursday & Friday for three straight qualifying walks. Way to go! And apologies to Jack & Maria for missing recognition of Justin's (Bedro's Justintime V Greenway) Novice Draft Dog title that he and Jack earned back in October. A big Yaaaaaaaaaaay for these Working Dogs!
March 7, 2009 - A big congratulations to Georgeann & Bob Reeve on their new homebred AKC Champion, Brightwater's Monte Carlo Grande Prix! Monte finished with a five-point major at the PVBMDC Specialty on February 22. Yahoooooo!
February 25, 2009 - from Joyce Dickhoff I want to ask all PV club members who won placements in the 2009 photo contest, or who won in past years, to send me digital copies of your winning photographs for our 2010 PVBMDC Calendar. In addition to basic information, like the name of the dog(s) in the photo, names of people in the photo, name of photographer, etc., we will need a signed release from you granting PVBMDC permission to use your picture(s). A committee will make the final selection of pictures for the calendar.February 24, 2009
As some of you saw this weekend, Amy Briggs went Best Junior Handler and came in second in her Rally class. Amy has done all of this by working very hard with dogs that live with me and not with her. She has done all the training, as you all know that I'm a conformation person, not an obedience person. She only has limited time with the dogs but makes the most of it. She lost her favorite dog Skye this summer and was heartbroken, for Skye was only 16 months old. So Amy decided to try our Abby and what a team they made. But after avoiding having puppies for years, Abby decided that this year she would do it. So for Juniors Amy had to go to plan B and use Glory, my youngest show dog and the least experienced -- so back to working Amy went.Amy and Abby are working off leash now and have started agility training which is on hold until Abby gets her figure back. But what a great job with a score of 92 in Rally and Best Junior for a kid whose parents will not let her have a dog. I do think she got some of her grand mother's genes. Amy I am so proud of you.
February 23, 2009 - Congratulations Potomac Valley on another great Specialty. Thanks so much to Valerie Chase our Show Chairman and our show committee chairs for all your year-long preparations that made this show a real success! Thanks to all our generous members who worked the show or made donations in support of our trophies and raffles. It takes a club with wonderful members like you to make this event possible and so memorable! Thanks again so much!
Georgeann Reeve, President PVBMDC
January 25, 2009 - From Barbara Yoder Hi all--Nine-year old Cindy picked up her second leg on open jumpers this afternoon. In early December, she had two qualifying, first-place runs, one each for jumpers and standard. Inching closer to that new title...this time she was 3rd, but the course was challenging and we kept going to try and make the time. She's jumping cleanly and easily but her overall speed could use a little octane...still we're very proud of her accomplishments and look forward to more. Best, Barbara Lindenhof BMDs
January 20, 2009 - Winding up the four-day circuit at the Howard County Fairgrounds yesterday, Georgeann Reeve's Monte, Brightwater's Monte Carlo Grande Prix, went Winner Dog, Best of Winners for two points. Watching PV dogs win at the local shows is such a blast. Congratulations!
January 19, 2009 - A literal giant of a dog has left us today. Our condolences to Joyce Dickhoff and her family, especially granddaughter Amy, on the passing of Hagrid, CH Witchway's The Sorcerer. You can read Joyce's tribute to Hagrid on the Memorials page. He will certainly be missed.
January 18, 2009 - Another yahoo for Justin for repeating yesterday's win (see below) at the Annapolis KC show this afternoon for two more points.
January 17, 2009 - Jack & Maria Crifasi's boy Justin (Bedro's Justintime V Greenway) was Winners Dog and Best of Winners today at the Carroll Co. Kennel Club show at the Howard Co. Fairgrounds. Another two points closer to finishing. Congratulations!
January 12, 2009 - Congratulations to Andrea & Chris Stefanac on finishing Josie's AKC Championship points this past Sunday at the Fredericksburg show. Josie (CH Adesa L-Sin Objection Overruled) was sired by their boy Barkley. And congrats are also in order to Sherry Von Engel who finished her boy Slater, CH Sunshine's Rock Solid V Von Engel on Saturday, also at Fredericksburg.
January 2, 2009 - We have lost a special friend. Harriet Gehorsam, former member of PVBMDC, and huge supporter of the breed, passed away this morning in Charlottesville, Va. after a long illness. Her husband Leon preceded her in death last August. We mourn the loss of these two long-time members of the Berner community and miss seeing them ringside, where we enjoyed their good company and friendship.
Nancy Bullard of the Watchung Berner Club in New Jersey, a long-time friend of Harriet's, sent the following information for PV members.
Dec 21, 2008 - We have news to share from Buck & Priscilla Sykes. First the good news --
PVBMDC can boast of having the only two Master Draft Dogs East of the Mississippi. Buck's girl TAVI completed her Master Draft Dog title in April 2008 and Priscilla's girl ROBYN joined her as Master Draft Dog in November. TAVI and ROBYN completed their Brace Draft Dog 3 at Chatahoochee Valley’s test on November 2. Thus Priscilla’s Lil ROBYN is now CH ROBYN vom Worblental, CD, RE, TD, MDD, BDD3 (thanks to her big sis, Tavi), JHD-s -- BMDCA Versatility & Working Dog. Those titles are so impressive and numerous, here they are spelled out:
CH - Breed champion (earned 15 points in conformation competition)
CD - Companion Dog (earned by qualifying in three Novice Obedience trials)
RE - Rally Excellent (earned after three qualifying runs at each level - Novice, Advanced and Excellent)
TD - Tracking Dog (the dog follows a track to find a scented article)
MDD - Master Draft Dog (qualifies five times in Open Draft)
BDD3 - Brace Draft Dog (3) qualified three times in Brace Open Draft - two dogs in hitch working off lead)
JHD-s - Junior Herding Dog (tested ability moving sheep)
BMDCA Versatility Dog - AKC Champion of Record, Draft Dog, and Companion Dog)
BMDCA Working Dog - Dog must have a draft title and two other working titles.
Congratulations to Buck & Priscilla on these wonderful accomplishments!
All of the above emphasizes the sadness felt at the news of Tavi's passing on Friday, December 19, when she was euthanized after a short battle with histiocytic sarcoma. Our hearts go out to Buck who was blessed with an extraordinary relationship with this young dog, accomplishing much during her brief walk in this life. Tavi epitomized the term Working Dog with her many titles -- CD RE TD MDD BDD3 JHD-s HTAD-I & BMDCA Working Dog, but we know what she truly excelled at was being a companion to Priscilla and Buck. Our hearts go out to them as they grieve her loss. Tavi's picture and memorial is posted on the Memorials page.
Dec 13, 2008 - From Joyce Dickhoff
PVBMDC December Party
Dec 13, 2008 - From Dorrie Zimmerman-
SPIRIT won Best Of Breed today over a large Bernese entry and then went on to win a WORKING GROUP 2 at Lehigh Valley KC. What a wonderful holiday gift !
Dec 7, 2008 - From Dorrie Zimmerman-
I am so proud of SPIRIT it brings tears to my eyes & gives me goose bumps.
Nov 30, 2008 - From Barbara Yoder - Hi everyone, More news on our guys (mostly gals...)-- Today, Ingrid--daughter of Nico and Cindy, mother to our "M" litter-- qualified for the third time in the obedience trials at the Catoctin Kennel Club in Point of Rocks, MD to earn her AKC Companion Dog (CD) title. Her second qualifying score was three weeks ago in Salisbury, MD. We are very happy with this result and proud of her accomplishment. In other news from Salisbury, Freya (Lindenhof's Freya v. Chargun) qualified for her second leg in Rally Excellent, and her cousin (1/2 sister to Ingrid) Lara, qualified for her second leg in Rally Novice. Otherwise, all Lindenhof doggies doing well and keeping up the good work. Best, Barbara Lindenhof BMDs
Nov 25, 2008 - From Wendy Keene - Xoie (Magic Mtn's Xoie v Adlerhorst RA CGC) and Future (Von Engel's Catch the Wave CGC) traveled to Glen Allen for the 1st Greater Washington Bouvier des Flandres Club performance trial. We are pleased to report that Xoie exhibited in Obedience Novice A and qualified for her first leg. Future exhibited in Rally Novice B and also qualified for her first leg. In addition, Elizabeth Johnson and Angel (Just Say A Spirit of Love RN CGC TDI) went with us and Angel exhibited in Rally Advanced A. She qualifed for her first leg. Angel is from Xoie's first litter.
Nov 16, 2008 - Brightwater's Monte Carlo Grande Prix, bred and owned by Georgeann & Bob Reeve, took back-to-back 4PT Major Wins at Howard County Fairgrounds on November 15 & 16. Go Monte!
Nov 10, 2008 - What a fantastic weekend Bob Reeve had at the Salisbury shows where he handled Zedd, Brightwater's Ruff N Rumba, to his Rally Excellent and Companion Dog titles, and also finished the Rally Excellent title on Loki, Santera Nordic Crossing, CD. Whooooooeeeeeeeeeee!
Nov 2, 2008 - Over thirty members and guests met at the Reeve's home in Leesburg this past Saturday for a sumptuous lunch prepared by Bob Reeve and augmented by members' contributions of snacks and desserts. Georgeann entertained the troops after the meeting with an original stump-the-panel game which proved challenging for everyone.
A brief summary of the Nov 1 business meeting - - There were no motions made, but we appreciated the updates from the various committees, learning that the 2009 Specialty is on track with the preliminary premium notice mailed to the superintendent last week. We continue to accept donations to the General Trophy Fund to help support the Specialty. Contact Sherry Von Engel (crittercav@aol.com) to sign up.
Joyce Dickhoff asked for volunteers to help cook the club's portion of the holiday lunch for December 7. She also announced a special calendar she will be working on during 2009 in conjunction with the Specialty Photo Contest. Details will follow in the December news. Meanwhile, take advantage of the beautiful fall weather to get some shots for you entry into the Photo Contest. We'd like to see many more entries this year!
Jeanne Stillson requested suggestions for the grand prize to raffle at the Specialty. The Wolf's are generously donating the beautiful, hand-painted cart that they won at the Specialty some years ago. The club will also contribute a second grand prize for the drawing. Please let Jeanne know if you have any ideas.
Maria Crifasi made an appeal for everyone to update their records in Berner Garde (www.bernergarde.org) to help with a recently announced longevity study of our breed. There are a huge number of entries in the B-G database that do not show a date of death which makes those data unusable for this study. Please do your part. Some years ago B-G was criticized for many inaccuracies. The B-G team has been working extraordinary hard to verify all data. Owners and breeders need to participate by looking at their own records, updating them, and correcting any errors they see. Maria is more than happy to help.
The slate of officers & directors for the upcoming year was presented to the members and opportunity given for nominations from the floor. No new nominations were made so the slate will stand elected at our December meeting.
The December issue of the club newsletter will honor our double-digit seniors. Please send pictures of your dogs who celebrated 10 years or more in 2008 to Carol Lingley (carol@pvbmdc.org) by November 20. If your dog passed away after his or her birthday, we still want to honor them with their venerated peers.
Thanks again to Bob and Georgeann for their hospitality and to everyone who made the trip to attend the meeting. It was great seeing you all!
Oct 19, 2008 - From Barbara Yoder -
All--Happy to report that Cindy finished two clean runs with perfect scores and 1st place finishes yesterday and today to complete the requirements for her Novice Agility title at the Mattaponi agility trials in Woodbridge, VA. Although she finished the Novice level last year at the "preferred" height of 20" (NAP and NJP), the NA and NAJ titles represent her success at the standard height of 24" for her size. Given her veteran status, am very happy with her performance, proud of her unflagging efforts, and excited about the level of conditioning this "mature" canine athlete has managed to sustain in order to achieve these awards. Yea Cindy! Best, Barbara Lindenhof BMDs
Oct 8, 2008 - Our sincere sympathy to Sue & Herb Hoffman on the passing last week of their beloved Mia, Hoffhund Just For Mia. Mia was bred by Sue & Herb and whelped in March of 1997. She was 11 1/2 years old and still going strong up until recent weeks. We know there was much to celebrate in her long life, but still it is so difficult to say goodbye to such a good friend.
Oct 8, 2008 - From Buck Sykes -
At the Watchung Specialty, Priscilla’s ROBYN finished her NDD on her 29 month Birthday– so her formal name is now
CH ROBYN vom Worblental CD RE TD NDD JHD-s
We believe that ROBYN is the youngest Berner to receive both BMDCA’s Versatility & Working Dog Awards.
Oct 8, 2008 - From Georgeann Reeve - Bob and the boys had a real good weekend at the Rally and Obedience shows held by The Mt Vernon Dog Training Club and the Capital Dog Training of Washington on Friday, Saturday and Sunday at Point of Rocks, MD. In Rally on Friday & Saturday, Bob & Loki (Santera Nordic Crossing, CD, RN, RA) picked up his 1st and 2nd leg of Rally Excellence. Then Bob & Zedd (Brightwater's Ruff N Rumba, RN) picked up his 3rd leg of Rally Advanced for this title, his first leg of Rally Excellence (Fourth Place) and his 1st and 2nd leg of Novice A Obedience toward his Companion Dog title.
Oct 6, 2008 - From Doreen Zimmerman - I am so proud of SPIRIT !
Oct 6, 2008 - From Joyce Dickhoff:
Falling for obedience
Since putting on a CGC and winning Pre=Novice with Abby at the PVBMDC Match Abby has been giving a lot of thought to being the obedience dog in the family. First it is something no other dog has tried to do except Hagrid. So Abby and Amy started attending obedience class and Abby said this stuff is not bad and I am smarter than most of these other dogs so lets show them. So I decided to try them in their first rally compertion at the Watchung Dog Show this weekend. Abby couldn’t decide what to wear so she went hairless for as any Berner owner knows you enter them and they blow coat. But Amy found a cute outfit and they went to the show. The class they where in was the very last class of the day so Amy had all day to get nervous but hung in real well. Abby went into the confirmation ring to show off her new no coat look and managed to take a second then off to obedience and rally. Well, they did a bang up job getting a score of 88 out of a possible 100 and getting first in their class while getting their first leg. Amy and Abby where both very happy with their day and so was the grandmother that drove them.
Sept 15, 2008 -
Wendy Keene was planning on joining us at the Match on Saturday but her girl came in season the day before so she had to stay home. She wanted us to know that on August 24, Future passed her Canine Good Citizen test with flying colors, performing all exercises in a room with many other people and dogs looking on. She is now Von Engel’s Catch the Wave CGC. Congrats, Wendy & Future!
Sept 14, 2008 - Thanks to photographers George, Georgeann and Carol, pictures from the weekend events are loaded on the Gallery page. All are shown in thumbnail size and can be viewed full size by clicking on each picture. Enjoy!
Sept
14, 2008 - Congrats and many thanks to all on another successful
weekend! Though the weather was warm (ok, very warm), many attended our Match
and Draft Workshop this weekend.
Thanks to our Match Chair, Jennifer Donnelly for making everything run so
well. Thanks to all our volunteers and our judges, Bill Hamilton
(conformation) and Valerie Chase (obedience) and to Pat Mills (CGC testing). We
had 44 entries for both conformation and obedience. We had seven dogs pass
their CGC tests. And we all got to meet Ruby and her wonderful new family.
What an inspiration to see such a determined and happy girl! We are all
waiting to hear who won the raffle for the beautiful painting that Sharon
Hasenauer donated to support our rescue efforts. A very successful Match day!
And to top off the weekend - we held another successful Draft Workshop. Thanks
to Kathy Skerl and Barb Yoder for organizing this event. Though the day was
even warmer (the hottest day in September on record), we found some shade and
enjoyed the instruction and walk-thus with our instructor, Draft Judge
Christine Mann. A big thanks to all the folks who helped set up and tear down,
tote supplies and looked out for our members and guests at the match, those
who donated to our raffle and those brought goodies to share. It was good to
see everyone and share the friendship of our Berner friends, two and four
legged!
Results
Best Junior Handler - Kasey Von Engel
Best Puppy #22 Hayfield's Grand Maggie Flower owned by Jim and Debbie Reams
Best Opp Puppy # 19 Ebnet's Wild Wild West owned by Margaret Jezek
Best Adult # 14 Santera Tango v Brightwater owned by Sandy Novocin
Best Op Adult # 11 Brightwater's Bruiser McWoof owned by Sarah Ward and
Georgeann Reeve
Best Vet - #32 Ch Brenna's Cindy v Lindenhof
HIT - #13 Roswall's Tyr of Jamar owned and handled by Paul Rosbolt
Sept 9, 2008
From Barbara Yoder - Cindy picked up her first leg in Novice Standard Agility on Sunday at Morven Park in Leesburg. We also participated on Saturday in the rains of Tropical Storm Hanna. Cindy almost completed the last leg of her Novice Jumpers, but conditions were such that it was not to be--she dropped one bar, but otherwise, everything else was good.
Sept 2, 2008 - Sharon Hasenauer passed along the good news that rescue puppy Ruby had her orthopedic surgery this afternoon. It was a 2 1/2 hour procedure and the vet said it went well. Ruby will be at the vets for a couple of days. Good thoughts and wishes go out to her this evening and to her new family who have their work cut out for them helping this young dog through her recovery and rehabilitation. Ruby's picture can be seen on the Rescue page.
Aug 30, 2008
Sending along
the sad news of the passing of longtime associate and friend Leon
Gehorsam on Thursday, August 28, at the Evergreene Nursing Care
Center in Stanardsville, Virginia, after a long illness. Leon's obituary
is available online at http://www.legacy.com/DailyProgress/Obituaries.asp?Page=Lifestory&PersonId=116620041
A snip from that reads, "While his wife was a one-time president of a
chapter of the Bernese Mountain Dog Club, Mr. Gehorsam was also very active.
The couple frequently took their dogs into the ring, and they were sought for
their advice. The bear-like dogs, with their distinctive black, brown, and
white markings, became frequent subjects of his sketches and paintings."
We do not have contact information for Harriet who is in frail health.
Messages of sympathy can be left online at the site listed above.
In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to the Alzheimer's
Association.
Aug 28, 2008 - Please keep Joel Mazelis in your thoughts and prayers as he recovers from a serious vehicle accident that occurred this past weekend. He dislocated his shoulder and broke his knee which required surgery at the Washington Hospital Center. Joel is now in a rehab facility to further recuperate before returning home. He will be restricted to a wheelchair for six to eight weeks as his knee heals. If you would like to send him your good wishes, cards and phone calls should go to the house for Jeanne to deliver. We know this is going to be a rough time for Jeanne too and send her our love and support.
Aug 26, 2008 - Buck Sykes dropped a line to let us know that Priscilla's ROBYN went to the Atlanta shows for Obedience on the weekend of 22-24 August. Robyn was great -- qualifying on each day to earn all three legs of her CD with a 190 average. Yaaaaay, Robyn! (CH Robyn vom Worblental, CD, RE, TD, JHD-s). Priscilla and Robyn are looking forward to autumn and the draft tests. Berner sister Tavi is waiting anxiously for her Brace partner!.
Buck said they are planning to come up for the Watchung Draft Test and Specialty in October and hope to see some of their PV friends there. He and Priscilla send their best to everyone at Potomac Valley.
Aug 25, 2008 - Looking on infodog.com, I see we missed some brags from local shows this summer. Jack & Maria's boy Justin - Bedro's Justintime V Greenway, was Best of Winners in Bel Alton on June 29 for 2 points, and Witchways Too Hot To Touch, owned by Joyce Dickhoff and Judi Parr was Winners Bitch for 2 pts. On July 4 at the Northeastern Md. show, Justin won Winners Dog for 3 points, and Andrea & Chris Stefanac's girl Adesa L-Sin Objection Overruled was Best of Winners for 3 pts., following her win the previous day of Best of Winners and Best Opposite Sex for 2 points. She also was Best of Winners and Best Opposite Sex at the Upper Marlboro show on July 5 for another 3-point major, and scored again the following weekend in Berryville at the Shawnee show, with yet another BOW for a 3-pt major!
On July 6 at our supported entry at the National Capital KC show, Von Engel's Play It Again Sam, owned by Kasey & Sherry Von Engel, won Best in Sweeps, and the Yoder's Cindy, Brenna's Cindy V Lindenhof, CD, RE, NAP, NJP, was Best Veteran in Sweeps. In regular classes, Witchways A Little Bit Evil, owned by Joyce Dickhoff and Steven Briggs, was Winners Bitch for 4 points.
In Berryville on July 12, Bruno, Brightwater's Double Stuffed Treat, owned by Denise Kueny & Georgeann Reeve was Best of Winners and Best of Breed for 2 points. Santera Carolina Mtn. Trillium was Winners Bitch and Best Opposite Sex for 1 point.
Congratulations to all these winners!
Aug 24, 2008 - The Summer newsletter is in the mail. Many thanks to Georgeann, Maria, Sharon, Valerie & Joyce for their articles and information. Photo quality is always a challenge, especially since we do our own copying at Kinko's. All pictures are loaded to the Gallery section on the Web, so hope you will take a few minutes to enjoy the color version of the photos. The opening view of the Gallery is in thumbnail size; click on each photo for full size viewing.
The next edition of the news is due out October 1 (submission deadline Sept 20). We welcome, encourage (beg for) member contributions. Living with Beners gives rise to many stories; please consider sharing some of your experiences -- maybe something funny that happened, or a medical crisis we can all learn from, or how you found the breed. What training challenges are you dealing with? Did your Berner accompany you on vacation this summer? How did that work for you? Have you read any new dog books you could tell us about, or maybe you've discovered a new grooming aid that works well on long, black coats. And don't forget those brags & wags!
Aug 10, 2008 - Our friends Jeanne & Joel have been blindsided by the sudden loss of their 17-month old Samson after a brief illness. For those of you who attended the March meeting at their house, Samson was that sweet pup that bounced in to say hello a couple of times. It certainly makes the heart hurt when we lose young dogs. Please keep Jeanne & Joel in your thoughts today.
July 27, 2008 - Joel Mazellis advises that he has restocked a supply of Nikki Riggsbee's soft cover book, Bernese Mountain Dogs, A Complete Pet Owner's Manual. Check out the Ways & Means page for ordering info.
July 21, 2008 - Lost Berner in Lovettsville, Va.
He's been missing since last Sat morning and no one in the area has seen him since an hour after he went missing! Several people think that he may have been picked up and traveled north with them. We are five miles south of MD RT 340 in VA. He does have a chip and some specific identifying marks. PLEASE call me if you see or hear of a Bernese matching his description. Thanks, Bev Beverly, 703.929.3891, AirdDesigns@mac.com
July 14, 2008
Sad news from the Reeves today, they have lost their grand ol' girl, Celly. Eleven years this past March, she was the matriarch of the Reeve pack. Read her poignant tribute on the Memorials page. Our condolences to Bob, Georgeann and family.
July 11, 2008 - From Georgeann
What a Star Spangled Day! Thanks so much to Valerie Chase for coordinating our Supported Entry at Howard County Fairgrounds. Great Job! Thanks so much to all the exhibitors and supportors who came out to help us celebrate. The turn out was good for both Sweeps and Regular Conformation, quite a feat given the price of gas this summer! A special big thank-you to all our talented club members who brought such tasty dishes - lots of yummy food to eat! You made it impossible for me to stick to my diet and gave me such a wonderful excuse not to do so! Thanks all!
July 4, 2008 - From Barbara Yoder
Some of our Lindenhof girls participated in various events during the Blue Crab Cluster at Bel Alton, MD from 6/27-6/30, coming away with some advances and a new title. Leatha Lorelei (Nico/Lani daughter) completed her Rally Novice title on June 29, with 3 qualifying runs of 98, 96, and 84 (out of 100), earning the right to put the letters "RN" after her name. Her cousin, Freya (Zoro/Mystery daughter), picked up the first leg toward a Rally Excellent title.
But the top honors go to Lara Lydia (Leatha's sister, Cindy granddaughter) who went Best of Breed on Monday 6/30 for 1 point, beating the other 9-12 mo. puppy.
June 30, 2008 - From Georgeann
Pleased to share that Bob has put a new title on both of his dogs in Rally this weekend in the beautiful mountains of Bainbridge, NY. Brightwater's Ruff N Rumba (Zedd) earned his RN on Friday, then earned two of his three legs for RA on Sat and Sun, placing each day while Santera's Nordic Crossing, CD (Loki) earned his RA title and one leg of his RE. And he (Bob) managed to play 36 holes of golf over the weekend shooting in the low 70's each of the days! Congratulations to our boys!
June 22, 2008 - From Georgeann
I
am so pleased to share that a third pup out of the Flash x Dori Litter has
achieved his AKC Championship today. Crossing the border just for these shows,
AKC/CKC CH Brightwater's
Where the Heart is (Zhivago) went WD today for a four point major in
Missoula, MT. This is the boy that went BOS Futurity in Louisville, KY in 2007
that I co-own with Cathy Melllalieu of Vancouver BC. This is just one week
after his sister "Nikki' - AKC CH Brightwater's Jest N the Nic of Rhyme
finished her AKC Championship last week in Ludwigs Corner going WB/BOS over
specials for a three point major. We moved her up this weekend in Richmond, VA
and she went BOS both days!
Georgeann
June 18, 2008 - Heartsick to report that Joyce Dickhoff and granddaughter Amy Briggs have lost a special friend today. Witchways Sky Rockets In Flight (Skye) was euthanized this morning after a brief illness. She was only 15 months old. Our hearts go out to Joyce and especially to Amy who had been training with Skye in obedience for the last year. Never easy to say goodbye to a beloved dog; never harder than when it's a puppy and companion of an eleven-year old girl. Please keep them all in your hearts tonight.
June 11, 2008 - Lots of PV dogs starred at the Skyline and Shenandoah shows this past weekend. Congrats to:
Lindenhof's Freya V Chargun, RN - Barbara & Steve Yoder - New Rally Advanced title. First leg in Charlottesville with an 83, second leg last Friday in Fishersville with a 95 and second place, then finishing Monday in Harrisonburg with 83 and first place.
Also on Monday, Brightwater's Ruff N Rumba (Zed) - Bob & Georgeann Reeve - placed 4th in Rally Novice B with a 77.0. Hayfields Grand Shenandoah, RA - Jim Barrett - qualified in Rally Advanced B with a 70. And Santera Nordic Crossing, RN (Loki) - Bob & Georgeann Reeve, qualifying run in Rally Advanced B with an 88.
In the conformation ring -
On Friday in Fishersville, the Yoders' crew had a sibling rivalry with Leif Lothar V Lindenhof coming out on top with WD & BOW for 1 point, and sister Lara Lydia V Lindenhof getting the 1 point for the girls with WB and BOS.
On Saturday, Leif Lothar V Lindenhof picked up 1 point for WD and Adesa L-Sin Objection Overruled, owned by Andrea & Chris Stefanac, was WB and BOW for 1 point.
Sunday in Harrisonburg, Joschka Joerg V. Lindenhof, owned by Gary & Beki Gieseke got 2 points for WD, and Brightwater's Jest N The Nic of Rhyme, owned by Georgeann and Bob Reeve, was WB & BOW for 2 points.
At the Harrisonburg show on Monday, Leif Lothar V Lindenhof took the point in boys again with WD & BOW, with sister Leatha Lorelei V Lindenhof getting the point in bitches with WB.
June 2, 2008 - From Georgeann - What a great time we had yesterday! We had it all, sunshine, rain, dry dogs, wet dogs and lots of fun. Thanks to members Jack and Maria for hosting us in their wonderful mountain retreat! Thanks to all the folks who came and brought such wonderful 'pot luck' to share! The food was great, the company even better. We made some new friends yesterday and spent time with many of our current friends. Though the rain dampened the ground and some dogs, it did not dampen our spirits. After the rain had cleared, we had a 'Scotish' like dog contest. Everyone went home with something, thanks to Maria, Joyce and Amy for their creativity and 'expert' judging. A great time was had by all!
June 2, 2008 - One week after finishing Abby in New Jersey, Brenda Bernard's homebred Cedar Creek's Next Chapter (Story) completed her AKC Champion points, all from the Bred By Exhibitor classes, in Charlottesville yesterday. How sweet it is!
May 25, 2008 - Congratulations to Brenda Bernard and her new Champion, Keilissa's Touch & Go (Abby) who finished today at the Plainfield Kennel Club show in Freehold, NJ by going Best of Winners for a 3-point major. Way to go!
Also, congratulations are in order for new Draft titles earned at the National Specialty in April. Jan Burgan's Brooks (Hayfields Grand Brooknoll, CD RE NAP), co-owned by Janet Grandstaff, new Novice Draft Dog. And Buck & Priscilla's Tavi (Ottavia Vom Worblental, CD RE TDS DD JHD HTAD-ls) earned the new Master Draft Dog title in Rhode Island, which means she has passed the Open Draft test five times under seven different judges. WOW!
May 23, 2008 - A chart entitled Quick Reference Guide for Gastric Dilatation Volvulus -- BLOAT, is available at www.jersey.net/~mountaindog/berner1/bloatchart.pdf/ Time is of the essence if your dog bloats and your efforts will be focused on getting to a vet as quickly as possible. NOW is the time to learn about the symptoms and treatment. Print this document and keep in a handy place. It can help you save your Berner's life.
May 21, 2008 - 
Reminder
about Berner-Garde. At their meeting this evening, the Board
agreed to take steps to encourage all PVBMDC members to participate in the
Berner-Garde database. As Maria Crifasi, B-G operator, stated in the
April newsletter, "It's Never Been Easier!" Every Berner can
contribute information that will help the breed. Even the most basic
information, date of birth, whether altered or not, height, weight, etc. can
help. Entering your dog into the database is very easy. Go to www.bernergarde.org
and read the simple instructions. If you need assistance, Maria will
be glad to help. You can reach her at mcrifasi@hughes.net.
PLEASE PARTICIPATE!
May 12, 2008 - From Barbara Yoder
News from Lindenhof: Cindy, Nico and daughter Ingrid picked up their Herding Capability Test (HCT) titles on April 20, and Cindy's first place finish in Novice Jumpers (at standard height--24") for her second leg made her the highest scoring Berner in the Jumpers with Weaves across the whole trial. I'm told only 17% of the entries qualified--even the dog who had just completed her MACH the week before to become only the second Berner ever to do so, messed up--so this was a special accomplishment for us. While at the Nationals, Lani's kids, Leif and Lara, picked up a point each both days of the Wilmington, DE shows, with Leif going BOW both days. Freya went reserve on Saturday, 4/26. We stopped by Bear, DE on the way home from Nationals to pick up all three pups.
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 & Steve 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...
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.
February 25, 2008 - What a successful show! On behalf of the Potomac Valley BMDC board, I would like to extend our warmest thanks and congratulations to Show Chair Brenda Bernard and her wonderful committees. Many thanks to all the generous members of Potomac Valley who pitched in, donated time or trophies and made our 11th Independent Specialty another great show! A special thanks to Catoctin Kennel Club member Shawn Michael, who stepped in to man the Trophy Table after our Trophy Chair fell ill. We really appreciate it. Thanks to all our exhibitors who braved a dismal travel weather forecast, only to be rewarded with good weather for the days of the show - thanks so much for bringing your wonderful berners back to Potomac Valley. We love seeing all our friends who live both far and near. Congratulations to all the participants. We hope to see you back next year!
Georgeann Reeve
February 25, 2008 - Congratulations to Brenda Bernard for her wonderful job in chairing the 2008 Specialty show! It was a huge success. Everyone seemed relaxed and happy and having a good time watching gorgeous Berners strut their stuff on Saturday and Sunday. Thanks to everyone who helped Brenda during the year and at the show. It takes a great deal of team work to handle an event this size, and PV members made a huge effort to get the job done. THANK YOU, ONE AND ALL!
Unofficial results are on the Specialty page.
February 22, 2008 - PV volunteers have been working all day getting ready for the Big Show this weekend. The roads are clear and so is the parking lot. Looking forward to seeing everyone in Frederick tomorrow. Temperatures will be in the 40's Saturday and upper 40's Sunday and clear skies.
January 19, 2008 - Thanks Sharon & George Hasenauer for another great Winter Warm-Up this afternoon at the Catoctin building in Point of Rocks. Great job! The soups were wonderful (thanks to Sharon and also Bob Reeve). We had a super turn out, lots of new faces and oodles of puppies! Georgeann Reeve did a good job running her first General Meeting as President, and we welcome and thank Kristina Reichenbach for stepping into the one-year remaining term of Secretary of the Club. After the meeting, Valerie Chase conducted an introduction to Rally Obedience for beginners, while experienced Rally handlers took advantage of a course Val had set up in one of the rings. Sandy Novocin gathered a large group of folks wanting to try their hand at conformation exhibiting, or for experienced handlers, practice their new pups with some run thrus. Everyone seemed to be having a great time, especially those puppies! Thanks to all for another spectacular PV event.
January 16, 2008 - Apologies to Barbara Yoder for having missed this posting.
11/18 Once again, an update from v. Lindenhof: After a lay-off of about 7 weeks to heal up a broken toe (left rear), Madame Cindy came roaring back and qualified in three of her six runs this past weekend to earn her Novice Agility Preferred (NAP) and Novice Jumpers Preferred (NJP) titles. For her last NAP leg, she even placed first. For her remaining NJP legs (Friday and Saturday), she placed 3rd and 2nd. In the parlance of the agility folks, on Friday, after basically not having trained at all, she "double Q'd," meaning she had qualifiying runs the two times she went into the ring that day. But in the move-up to Open classes, we also learned that open courses are considerably more challenging to run. Although Cindy did very well in her attempts, she tipped one bar on the last Jumpers course Sunday afternoon, which kept her from a qualifying run. But since this is only our second time trialing, I'm not complaining. With these new agility titles, Cindy now qualifies for the BMDCA Working Dog award. The requirements for that are two working titles plus a draft title, so she is getting quite a string of letters after her name. And at almost 8 years old, she continues to exhibit classic working dog qualities, which we always like to see. Great job, Cindy! Barbara, v. Lindenhof BMDs
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
January 4, 2008 - Mason Dixon BMD Club is holding a CERF Clinic (Dr. Peiffer) $25 (walk in after 11:30 am); Avid microchip $30 (call for reservation as we have 10 prepaid chips) and Pat Long photo session in time for your BMDCA Yearbook entry $50 donation to the MDBMDC education fund Sunday January 6, 2008 at Kay Ames School for Dogs, 809 New Holland Ave, Lancaster PA The weather looks good for Sunday - Lancaster forcast is 47 degrees, 30% chance of showers. From Route 30 take the New Holland Ave exit WEST into the city. Go about 1 mile and pass under a railroad bridge. Take an immediate right at the stop light and an immediate right into the Kay Ames parking lot. Park to the Right (south) side of the lot. Come in an check to get on the list and pay and get paperwork before brining the dog in. Bring registration information on the dogs. Valerie Chase--
Dec 10, 2007 - From Joyce Dickhoff
Dec 10, 2007 - WOW, what a great time everyone had at the Annual Meeting/Auction/Holiday Celebration yesterday! A huge crowd of Berner enthusiasts turned out to enjoy the delicious array of dishes contributed by members, and to participate in one of the most exciting auctions we've ever had. Joyce Dickhoff, event chair, outdid herself once again with all the special holiday touches that made the day extra special. Red table cloths and holiday decorations made the food tables festive, and decorated name tags helped draw everyone into the fun. The door prizes Joyce created this year were wonderful: doubling as table centerpieces, small trees decorated by Joyce's granddaughter, Amy, perched atop large watering buckets, accompanied by a couple of "surprise" gift packages. Lucky winning ticket holders took the centerpieces home at the end of the day.
Special thanks to Kathy Donohew for cooking the turkey and Sharon Hasenauer for the ham. We know these ladies were up pre-dawn with their efforts. And to everyone who contributed dishes to the meal. It was an amazing assortment of culinary delight!
We were so blessed and thankful to have Norb Novocin back to run the auction once again after his almost year-long struggle with major health problems. With the twinkle back in his eyes, and assisted by his beloved Sandy, and junior elves Matt Korotki and Amy Briggs, Norb took up the chant and sealed deals on the great number of items donated to the auction table. Our Treasurer is still working on the final figures, but we're sure that the tally will be a record breaker. A portion of the proceeds from the auction this year will be designated for Rescue.
Jack Crifasi convened the annual meeting at the completion of the auction. (Thanks to the members who stayed to make quorum.) Two new applicants were voted into membership -- welcome Margaret Jezek and Dot Decker. The slate of officers and directors for 2008 was elected. Committee reports were received and accepted. At the end of the meeting, new president Georgeann Reeve thanked Jack Crifasi for his four years of Board service, and presented him with a plaque in appreciation of his leadership the last two years in the president's chair. We thank both Jack and Geogeann for their willingness to devote their time and energy on the behalf of PVBMDC. It's no small commitment!
We appreciated all the help with clean-up. It went quickly and we were out of the facility in a timely fashion.
This event was a wonderful kick-off to the Holiday Season. Thank you, everyone, who made it happen. MERRY, HAPPY HOLIDAYS! See you in January.
Dec 3, 2007 - We've gotten word that a Berner has been seen in the woods behind some houses in Vienna, Va. along a bike path. If anyone hears of someone looking for their dog in that area, please have them contact sharon@pvbmdc.org. We're trying to confirm that it is indeed a Bernese. The person who has seen the dog is trying to coax him into the yard. Animal control in the area has been alerted as well.
Nov 26, 2007 - From Georgeann Reeve - Just wanted to share! We had a pretty good weekend. at the Howard County Shows Nov 23-26. Ms Nicki (Brightwater's Jest N the Nic of Ryhme) took WB on Friday for 2 points, took WB/BW on Sunday for 3 points, and took WB on Monday for another point! I guess it was worth taking Friday and Monday off work, but now I have to go back after having 5 days off!
Nov 18, 2007 - From Barbara Yoder - Hi All, News updates on our guys. Nico finished up the last leg of his Rally Excellent title on September 30, so that's done. We mostly skipped doing any dog events in October as we were in the midst of selling our long-time Vienna residence and moving to a new Vienna house. However, we did manage to put our youngest dog, Lindenhof's Freya v. Chargun (a Zoro daughter) in a CGC class. She took the test on her 6 month anniversary October 24 and passed easily. Then last weekend, I made the trip to Salisbury for the 3-day show with Lani and Freya. Lani's last pup from the "L" litter had just left the week before for her new home and I thought it was time for her to focus on other things. We were just signed up for Rally. Lani picked up two legs on her Rally Excellent and little Miss Freya had 3 qualifying scores to earn her Rally Novice title (11/11). For such a little tyke that was a pretty good achievement. This coming weekend, I have Cindy entered in 3 days of agility trials up near Philadelphia. We are hoping to capitalize on her great showing last August when she earned three legs on two different agility titles, winding up with first place finishes in all three. With luck we hope to turn Cindy's performance this coming w.e. into new titles, but we'll have to see how that goes--touch wood. Best, Barbara Lindenhof BMDs
Nov 5,
2007 - Letter from the Vice President…
I was lucky enough to be in charge of the meeting that was held this weekend at
Georgeann and Bob Reeve's. Jack was in Atlanta with his boy Justin doing the
draft test. What a lovely day, we had a very nice turn out of members and one
guest. Bob prepared us a wonderful meal. Members brought the appretizers and
desserts. After conducting the meeting we had a presentation by Herb Hoffman
about the 100th Swiss Dog Show that was held this year. It was very interesting
to hear about the judging and how different it is to the judging here. The
pictures where lovely it was almost like being there. There was a good size turn
out of Americans and a number of them were from this area.
All the committees reported that the 2008 Specialty is right on track and Sharon
is working her magic with rescue even while in Florida. Sandy wanted to remind
everyone that it is time to put your ads in for the catalog. Get in touch with
Sandy for we all like to tell the world how wonderful our Berner is and Sandy
can help you do that. I talked about the Holiday Party that we are having at
Point of Rocks on December 9, 2007 from 11 to 3 PM. This year part of the money
we make on the auction is going to rescue so mark your calendar. Carol told us
the newsletter is on its way out, she is always looking for articles to put in,
so if you can help her out please do so.
I wish all the members a very Happy Thanksgiving and hope to see you at the
Holiday Party
A very special Thank You to Georgeann and Bob and also Herb
Joyce
Nov 5, 2007 - A huge thank you to Bob & Georgeann for yesterday's fabulous lunch. You have truly spoiled us, and no one is complaining about that! It was a great turn out, and we thoroughly enjoyed all the dishes contributed by members to enhance the meal. Conversation was lively, and it was wonderful to have an opportunity to catch up with old friends and meet some new ones. Herb Hoffman put together a video presentation of pictures from the 2007 Swiss Jubilee and it was super! Quick-paced and informative, the video gave a great overview of the differences in dog shows in the US and Europe. Thanks also to our VP, Joyce Dickhoff for stepping in to run the meeting in Jack's absence. The main piece of business is there were no nominations from the floor, so the nominated slate will be elected at the December 9 annual meeting.
Nov 5, 2007 - We were fighting the computer goblins last week and were unable to make some announcements.
Sadly, we learned that John and Dotty Foellmer lost their beloved Gus after a brief illness last month. Gus participated at the Draft Workshop in September. Little did we know then it was our last opportunity to enjoy his company. Gus' breeder Joyce Dickhoff says Gus was exceptionally smart. We can easily believe that because he chose the very best family to spend his days with. Our heartfelt sympathy to John & Dotty.
On a happier note, Joyce's girl, DeLi's Magic Touch of Canibern (Genie), finished her championship at the Middleberg KC show on Sunday, October 28, by going Best of Winners and Best Opposite Sex. Congratulations, Joyce, on another Witchway champion!
Oct 24, 2007- A good show weekend for several of our members: Debi Bullard's boy Dakota (Santera Classic Dakota) picked up two points at the shows in Buena, New Jersey; in Cumberland, Bob & Geogeann's young girl, Brightwater's Just N The Nic of Rhyme, was Best of Winners and BOS on Friday and took Best of Breed over Specials at the Saturday show. Also in Cumberland, Toby (Keilissa Unleashed), owned by Brenda Bernard, took the points for the boys on Friday and Saturday, also placing over the dog specials for Best Opposite Sex behind Nicki at the Saturday show. Worth the drive, ay ladies? ;-) CONGRATULATIONS!
Sept 20, 2007 - Mason-Dixon BMD Club is hosting an AKC sanctioned B-OB Match and a Dog Walk this coming Saturday, Sept 22, at Spring Valley Park (Porcupine Pavilion) in Glen Rock, Md. Obedience entries taken 9 to 10 and judging (Pat Mills) begins at 10. Conformation entries open 9 to Noon and judging (Sue Hoffman) begins at Noon. The Dog Walk is at 11:15. A self-directed Rally course will be available and CGC testing follows obedience. Bring you lunch, chairs, water, and remember to pick up after your dogs. FMI JillsBerner33@aol.com. Directions: I-83 to Glen Rock exit; travel east on Rt 216 for a tenth of a mile; turn right onto Potosi Rd; travel 2.1 miles to Crest Rd. Look for M-D sign at the Porcupine Pavilion.
Sept 17, 2007 - Some very nice comments about the weekend are being posted on various e-lists. They are posted below for all to enjoy.
I want to express my thanks to the Potomac Valley Bernese Mountain Dog club for hosting yet another great event. Cutter and I made to trek to Walkersville, MD today for the club's draft workshop. It was well worth the trip. The workshop was well organized and held in a great location. It was wonderful to get to do a mock draft test under the experienced and helpful guidance of Barb Gibson. Yep, I confirmed that Cutter is indeed ready for a draft test, but I still need work. <vbg> I suffer from nervous leash hands. If anyone knows of a cure, please let me know. Seriously though, it takes a lot of work to put on these events. I do thank Barbara Yoder, Katherine Skerl, Barb Gibson, Carol Lingley, George Hasenauer, and Sue Hoffman for all of your work and encouragement. My apologies if I missed someone. Wendi Giordano
**************************
THANK YOU!!! to everyone who worked so hard to put on the Match
yesterday.
As always, it was a great event not only for the obedience and conformation
practice time but also for novice people to meet Berner owners and dogs and
ask questions. The weather seems to shine its best on this match and the
site is splendid.
It usually is the same key people doing the work and I thank them for all
they do so that others can have a fun day.
Sandie Hawkins
****************************************
Sandie
-- I second your compliments to the members of the PVBMDC. I know how much
hard work is involved in running a good match, and these folks not only
did the Sanctioned Match on Saturday, but were about to do a Drafting
Workshop on Sunday. I can't comment on Sunday's event, but Saturday went
off just beautifully, as you said. I especially want to compliment the
Club on selecting a judge in training for Bernese, Mrs. Helene Nathanson.
Mrs. Nathanson was a participant in the Judges' Study Group at the last
National, so was very happy to have a great hands-on opportunity to judge
our dogs at a match. Given that I mentored her at the Specialty, we
continued the discussions after her judging at the match. Opportunities
such as Sanctioned Matches are the perfect training grounds for not only
our young dogs, handlers, and everyone working so hard in obedience
training, but also for our future conformation judges. Thank you Potomac
Valley for recognizing this.
Gold stars and brownie points to all those who worked so hard to do this
Match. Weather was just perfect, food was great, dogs all had a good time,
and it was of course so nice to have a chance to see old friends and talk
to future owners/members.
-Margie Reho
Dallybeck Bernese, Warrenton, VA
********************
Putting on a successful match.. is the end result of the labor
of all those who volunteer their time to help make their club's events as good
as they can possibly be.
Grounds crew, registration , conformation and obedience stewards, folks who man
the breakfast and lunch food tables, the generous members who donate their pink
and white "elephant" (< VBG> ) items to the Raffle.. actually
lots of wonderful items ...., and those who take the raffle tickets and do the
drawings .....
All of these volunteers show up early... regardless of the weather... to get
things going... and get the job done.
That the PV Match was deemed a "Success" is due solely to the sum of
all the individuals without whom.....nothing would be done.
That it went well is worthy of kudos to those who helped.
As to how well all of these volunteers did their job..... well, I had nothing to
do... except get down on the ground and play with Berner Puppies.
And... despite my efforts to "Rescue" some of the most wonderful
"typey" chunky furballs...Not one exhibitor would put their puppy in
MY CAR <G>
I am delighted that the exhibitors had a great time ....
Michael O'Hara
Match Chair
Potomac Valley BMDC
Sept 17, 2007 - What a great weekend! The weather could not have been any more perfect than it was on Saturday and Sunday for our events in Walkersville. Match Chair, Michael O'Hara, did an excellent job pulling together all the pieces that make the Match run smoothly. Many members pitched in to provide a great time for all. Thanks to Dave Burgan for manning the grill -- no leftovers is a good sign that it all was delicious! The Raffle was super thanks to some awesome donations from members and the enthusiatic presentation by Kathy Donohew and helpers. Special thanks to those who were on hand early to help with the set up and to take entries and get that hot coffee perking. Our Match is like a homecoming: seeing old friends, meeting new, soon-to-be ones; getting a look at the young up and coming puppies, and being able to celebrate the veterans. Thank you to each and every one who helped make it happen.
And the weather and volunteer enthusiasm spilled over to Sunday for the Draft Workshop. A big round of applause to Katherine Skerl and Barbara Yoder for putting together an event that was well-attended (20+ registerants) and greatly appreciated by all participants. Barbara had a long drive up from Vienna, and Katherine made a four-hour trip from the Northern Neck pulling a trailor of supplies for the event. A very big THANK YOU to Sue Hoffman who hosted BMDCA Draft judge Barbara Gibson for three nights so she could be on hand to lead the workshop. Valerie Chase also played a key role, providing a lot of the draft equipment and guiding some of the newbies as they began training their companions to pull a cart. Barbara and Katherine will be giving a full report soon, and Sue Hoffman was taking pictures which we'll post when available. Among the working black dogs there were several Great Pyrenees, a couple of Rotties, a Ridgeback, a Shepherd and even a Chow who excelled at pulling her antique buckboard-type wagon. Many dogs went from wearing a harness for the very first time to pulling a cart by the end of the day. Everyone made progress, and it was rewarding to see how this immense effort on the part of the PV volunteers converged to a valued experience for the dogs and handlers. Congratulations, Barbara & Katherine and all their helpers for a job well done!
Sept 10, 2007 - We got wonderful news today that the puppy that was lost in Burke, Va. has been recovered after six weeks on his own in the woods. He was found several miles away in Springfield and, other than being filthy, he is in relatively good shape. His family is ecstatic, of course, and he's adapted well to being a house dog once again. A full story of his recovery will be in the October newsletter.
Sept 10, 2007 - Another loss in our Berner community. Today, Dick and Carmelita White said goodbye to their 11 1/2 year old girl Bibbi (Santera Bibiana v Beowulf). While we celebrate her long life, we know how hard it is to part with these loyal friends who are even more dear as venerable seniors. We share your sadness, Dick & Carmelita. A tribute to Bibbi is on the Memorials page.
Sept 8, 2007
- 
Hi
all, I am beyond thrilled to announce that today is my Chance's 10th birthday!!
Chance has taught me a lot about greeting each day with enthusiasm and always
looking on the bright side. Chance is eternally happy. He's in great shape and
many people think he is much younger than he actually is. He's a sucker for
people and anyone he meets gets a black Berner butt on their feet while Chance
looks up imploringly for petting. Most people are happy to oblige! Chance had a
nerve sheath tumor removed from his left elbow this past spring and, knock on
wood, so far there has been no recurrence. We are grateful that Chance has made
it past the average lifespan age and know that every day is a gift. Chance's
sister Lucka (CH Santera Lucka v Crest) also continues to do well. Many, many,
many thanks to Sandy and Norb Novocin for trusting 2 newbies and blessing us
with Chance when he was 8 weeks old. We had no idea at that time that the
Berners would become such an integral part of our lives. ~Andrea Stefanac &
Chance (Santera Shot In The Dark CD NDD RN) Richmond, VA
Aug 31, 2007 - Our hearts go out to Valerie Chase and Bill Johnson tonight at the news that their grand dame Lightning has gone to the Bridge. Lightning was Valerie's accomplished Obedience and Rally dog, and together they traveled far and attempted many new ventures. Lightning was the first Bernese Mountain Dog to earn a Rally Advanced Excellent title, and the only one to date with an RAE2. She was well on the way to a triple RAE when she fell ill this past June. We know she has left a huge hole in her household and very big paws to fill. We've added her tribute and picture to the Memorials page.
Aug 20, 2007 - Our sympathies to Jodi & Dennis Heins this evening on the loss of their boy Zak (Caroling's Notable Muzak) today. Zak was Jodi's special pal, and he adored her all his life of 10 years, 4 months. We know the feeling was mutual and that there is a big hole in the Heins family tonight. May all the good memories carry you through these sad times.
Aug 9, 2007 - Here's an invite from our friends at Mason-Dixon BMDC. They are supporting the entry at the Penn Ridge show in Harrisburg this Saturday, Aug 11. Sweeps judging starts at 8AM in ring 8 and regular classes (entry of 43) follow at 8:45. You can get directions to the show at www.raudogshows.com. (mesg deleted after event).
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
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, Lani 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 26, 2007 -
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
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:
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 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-
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.
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 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 :
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
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.
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 16th (survey open until 4pm eastern time on
Friday, June 30th). 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 15th,
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
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 about 4pm-7pm at Brenda's house
in
If
you live closer to Ludwigs Corner fairgrounds, Mandy will also be at Jennie
Hoffnagle's house to adjust dogs earlier in the day from 2pm-3pm before she
drives west to Brenda's house. Please call Jennie at 610/321-1288 for
directions.
The
cost will be $30 per adult dog (over 4 months of age), and she will adjust
litters of puppies under 4 months old for $5 each.
Please
call or e-mail Brenda (bedro@suscom.net) or Jennie ( bmdwags@aol.com)
if you are interested in attending.
June 4, 2006 - Despite the ominous weather report, a big crowd turned out yesterday for PV's annual Fun Day at the Crifasis'. An unofficial count numbered 35 members and guests and at least 27 BMDs, ranging in age from 10 weeks to 11 years, and one Lab. A cool blustery morning greeted the early arrivals who gathered to learn a bit about carting from Val Chase. With the required quorum on hand, Jack called the business meeting to order at 11a.m. Members voted to continue to support Dr. Aguiree's PRA research, and to make another donation to aid dogs displaced by hurricane Katrina. Jack announced that Sue Hoffman has volunteered to be show secretary for PV's 2007 Specialty. Kathy Donohew will be heading the fall match (Sept 16) where we will, for the first time, offer CGC testing. Pat Mills will be the CGC coordinator. Lamar Solomon will judge obedience and Linda Carney has accepted the invitation to judge conformation. We welcome the following new members to PVBMDC: Jay Dickhoff, Libby Cahill, Andrew Reichenbach and Jeff Hanson (Jeff transferred his membership from Nashoba Valley BMD Club).
Of course, the potluck lunch was wonderful; we have such talented cooks in our group. And lots of dogs enjoyed running the agility course Jack had set up. Fortunately we were able to recover Libby and Deb from the tunnel. LOL We never got the threatening rain; the sun popped out around 3PM encouraging a few to sit and relax as the afternoon wound down.
Sincere thanks to Jack and Maria for sharing their wonderful home and for all their hard work preparing for the day. And thanks for the fortitude to persevere after the 24-hour deluge and the power outage. It was a wonderful day!
Check the Gallery page for photos.
June 3, 2006 - We are ON for Fun Day but BRING A SWEATER. It is 63 outside with a brisk breeze. We have no power but the generator is on. If you can bring a cooler with ice that would help. The rain stopped during the night but it is a tad (guffaw) damp.
See you soon,
Maria
June 2, 2006 - From Maria re tomorrow's event at her place in Garfield, Md.:
"I think we are going to be cutting it close -- rain this afternoon, tonight -- ending mid morning. Mid-70 temps (means 68-70 here). We should be good for the meeting and lunch at least. Just in case, I will email early tomorrow morning in case we need to cancel the drafting segment. Maria"
Check here in the morning for updates. You may need to refresh the page or use a different browser to see the latest information.
May 30, 2006 - A post card to PVBMDC came in today's mail from Penn Veterinary Medicine announcing a new FREE, limited, online service. The Canine Behavioral Assessment and Research Questionnaire, C-BARQ, will be available to pet owners until July 31, 2006. "Penn's Center for the Interaction of Animals and Society has developed a valuable tool by which owners, veterinarians and dog-related organizations can assess the behavior of dogs and be instantly provided with separate scores for all the most common behavior problems." You can visit the site at www.vet.upenn.edu/cbarq. You will be asked to register (only takes a minute), then you can set up a profile for each dog you own and answer a series of questions about the dog (takes about five minutes). When finished you are given your dog's scores and a comparison rating to the dogs in their database. Red flags indicate areas where you may need some work. It's an interesting exercise.
May 25, 2006 - Terrible news from Buck & Priscilla tonight. Unbelievably, Fronny (Fronny vom Worblental) died on Sunday after a short illness. This happening so soon after Molly B's loss in February is a cruel blow. Fronny and Molly B were wonderful to behold when drafting in brace, but the really awesome team was Fronny and Priscilla. They excelled in tracking and obedience work, earning titles wherever they ventured-- CD, RE, TD, CGC, JHD-s, DD, BDD, BMDCA 'Working Dog'. Our heartfelt sympathies to our friends. May the good memories see you through these sad times. Fronny's eulogy and picture are posted on the Memorials page.
May 19, 2006 - More kudos from the National Specialty. Congratulations to Buck & Priscilla Sykes for the photo contest wins. The wonderful photo of Molly B herding a single sheep (see the Home page) garnered 1st place in the Working Dog division, and was the People's Choice for best photo in the show. Buck & Priscilla send their best to everyone at PV.
May 18, 2006 - Belated congratulations to Anna Bowman and her Ch. Whispering Pines Kapono for making it to the final cut at the Nationals. We heard that the entire Bowman family traveled to Michigan to cheer on the home team.
May 18, 2006 - Wendy Keene's Xoie completed her 3rd leg for her Rally Advanced title at the National Specialty. She is now Magic Mtn's Xoie v Adlerhorst RA CGC TDI. Wendy and Xoie also recently performed their first freestyle demonstration at the Geriatric Unit of Eastern State Hospital in Williamsburg and Xoie completed her first official Therapy Dog Visit at the Paws to Read Program at Russell Memorial Library in Chesapeake.
May 10, 2006 - I just read that Jack Crifasi and "Justin", Bedro's Justintime V Greenway, passed their first leg of the HCT (HERDING CAPABILITY TESTED) at the Specialty. As Maria described it, Justin was shoved into a barn with a judge, a shepherd hook and three sheep. Ya gotta love these farm dogs!
May 6, 2006 - Congratulations to the many PV members who picked up some nice wins at the Nationals. 1st place Open Bitch - Deli's Magic Touch Of Canibern (Genie), Owner: Joyce Dickhoff & Lillian Ostermiller; 4th Place Am Bred Dog, Santera Myboy Tavi, Owner Sandy Novocin; 3rd Place Sweeps - 12 - 15 mos Dog, Von Engel's Bellisimo, Owner: Sherry & Kasey Von Engel; 4th Place Sweeps - 12-15 mos Dog - Witchway's Abbracadabra, Owner: Joyce E Dickhoff & Amy Briggs, 2nd Place Futurity - 12 - 15 mos Dog, Von Engel's Catch The Wave, Owner: Wendy G Keene & Sherry L Von Engel; 3rd Place Obedience Novice A, Bedro's Justintime V Greenway, Owner: Maria Crifasi & Dede Laveran, handled by Jack Crifasi.
May 5, 2006 - PV is well represented this week at the Nationals in Frankenmuth-- Maria & Jack, Sue & Herb, Sandy & Norb, Valerie, Joyce, Sherry, Wendy Keene, Dave Burgan, the Rosbolts, Pixtons & Grandstaffs (thanks, Don, for once again hauling PV's Ways & Means to Michigan. Hope you re getting lots of help!), . Georgeann Reeve is there too and sending pictures (they're on the Gallery page. You can check results at www.bernernews.net and see more pictures of the gorgeous hotel and show grounds. If you didn't go to the BIG SHOW and are in town tomorrow, try to make the Spring Dog Walk. Joel Mazelis will be leading the pack on a stroll down the C&O Canal tow path beginning at 10AM.
May 3, 2006 - Apologies for the long silence. We were having problems with the old computer, but have finally transferred the website to the newer system and are ready to catch you up on the news.
Belated congratulations to. . .
Steve and Barbara Yoder -- On March 19, Ch. Nico V Nesselacker, NDD finished his Companion Dog (CD) title which qualified him for the BMDCA Versatility Award. A Versatility Dog must be an AKC Champion and have a Drafting title plus one other "working" event title. This is a super accomplishment! Nico may be the first PV dog to earn this new BMDCA recognition. The Yoder's girl Fulani (Ch. Fulani Neriza v. Lindenhof), is not being left behind as she passed her third obedience trial with a first place win at the Chesapeake Kennel Club on April 9 which completed her Companion Dog (CD) title. Fulani finished her AKC Championship in January, which means she now has titles at both ends of her name. A big hand for Barbara Yoder who worked very hard getting these dogs trained and in the ring after returning from her long assignment in Saudi Arabia.
Chris & Andrea Stefanac - On April 7 at the Fredericksburg KC Obedience Trial, Chris & CH L-Sin's Dark Blue Moon (Barkley) picked up their third Novice leg to complete Bark's Companion Dog title. Barkley had a rough start in life and had to be rescued from his first home. Lucky stars must have been shining for him and the Stefanacs the day they decided he would be a keeper in their hearts and home.
Wendy Keene - Magic Mtn's Xoie v Adlerhorst RN CGC (Xoie) competed in Advanced A at the Richmond Dog Obedience Club's two rally trials on April 14 & 15. On Friday, she qualified with a score of 84 and a third place finish. On Saturday, she qualified with an 82. Only one more leg to go!
Valerie Chase -- On April 14, October's Smokestack Lightnin', CD, RE, earned her Rally Advanced Excellent title in Harrisburg, Pa. Lightnin' is no doubt the first PVBMDC dog to make RAE, and, if not the first nationally, certainly among the first Berners to claim these letters. To earn the title a dog must qualify in Rally Advance and Rally Excellent at the same trial TEN TIMES. A wonderful accomplishment and reflection of a lot of travel and hard work!
Doreen Zimmerman - BISS Ch. Witchway's Native Spirit, CGC, (Spirit) won Best Of Breed at Baltimore KC on April 22, & was Best Of Opposite Sex. at Harrisburg, MasonDixon, Chambersburg, Old Dominion & Catoctin Kennel Clubs during the cherry blossom circuit. Spirit also took Best of Breed at Wilmington Kennel Club on April 28 & 29. She was ranked #3 Berner in the country in March! Doreen's other bitch, Witchway's Trail Of Tears (Tonka) was Winners Bitch for a 3 point major at Baltimore KC & won 2 points at Onadaga KC going Best of Opposite Sex & Winners Bitch. "Tonka" is co-owned by Joyce Dickhoff.
Our sincerest sympathies to Robin Korotki & family on the passing of their beloved Thunder on April 11. We know what a huge loss that was to them all. A tribute has been posted to the Memorials page.
March 19, 2006 - Heads up to anyone who would like to learn to cart with their Berners. Val Chase is in the planning stages for a mini Draft workshop for the morning of our June 3rd Fun Day at the Crifasi's. Stay tuned for more information.
Also, please reserve October 8 to come out and help at the PV Draft Test which will be held at Kemptown Park in Kemptown, Md. This site is in Frederick County just over the Montgomery County line, about 10 minutes from the Mt Airy Exit off Route 70. You do not need any special training to be of help.
March 19, 2006 - Many thanks to Joel & Jeanne for hosting the meeting yesterday in their spacious Silver Spring home.. About 14 members gathered for an afternoon of talking Berners and partaking of the wonderful chili Jeanne prepared and the variety of dishes contributed by members. Thanks to Sandy also for her insights into the BMD standard and for sharing the breed video and her pictures of Berners from Switzerland. Because we lacked quorum there was no official business meeting, but Jack did conduct an information session to review the Club's calendar and share some news and introduce two guests, Jeff Hanson and Phil Rider who may be interested in joining PV.
March 14, 2006 - PVBMDC Specialty Catalogs with results are available for $5. Make checks payable to PVBMDC and send to Georgeann Reeve, 20396 Brightwater Place, Sterling VA 20165.
March 7, 2006 - From Doreen Zimmerman:
I want to thank everyone who congratulated me & was truly happy for me & SPIRIT after winning Breed at the
Specialty. It was a day I will never forget. You are all wonderful! Everyone did a great job at the
Specialty working hard & running a FANTASTIC show & without all of you I would not have this special day to
remember. Keep up the great work.
February 27, 2006 - From Kate Perry: Congratulations on a great Specialty!! Was very glad to have been a part of the crew for such a successful event!
February 27, 2006 - Time for all members to give yourselves a big pat on the back for being a part of a another very successful Specialty Show this weekend. A BIG THANK YOU to Georgeann Reeve, Show Chair, for her year's hard work in preparation and sweating out the details that built a solid foundation for a great show. The final production always requires a team effort, and what a team we had out there working this year! Especially rewarding to see new members pitching in and lightening up the load and working side by side with members who have supported our shows from inception in 1998. This year we had a record 199 dogs entered over the weekend. Thanks to the withdrawal of three entered dogs prior to closing, we were able to accept all entries this year, but just barely under the maximum limit of 200 dogs on Sunday. It was thrilling to see all those beautiful Berners in one place, and the excitement as the winners were selected was electrifying. None of it would have happened without the tremendous group effort made by PVBMDC members. THANK YOU, ONE AND ALL!
CH Witchway's Native Spirit, owned by Dorrie Zimmerman and bred by Joyce Dickhoff, made history yesterday by being the first dog owned or bred by a PVBMDC member to win the coveted Best of Breed placement at one of our Specialties. Again, congratulations to Dorrie and Joyce for presenting and breeding such a fine Berner! Spirit was Reserve Winners Bitch at the 2004 PV Specialty at 18 months of age, so we had a glimpse then of great things to come. The dam of Spirit, Joyce's beloved Hocus (Ch. Beowulf's the Bewitching One), was bred by Carmelita White who also bred the granddam, Asta (Ch. Beowulf's Asta la Vista). Asta's dam was Maggie Zee, who was owned by Carmelita and bred by Sandy Novocin. Now that's really keeping it all in the PVBMDC family!
Valerie Chase found a cart dolly outside the building last night when doing the final site check before turning in the keys. If it's yours, give Val a hollar.
February 27, 2006 - 
We returned home from the Specialty
yesterday evening and found a sad post from Buck and Priscilla Sykes reporting
that their beloved Molly B (Debby vom Worblental, CDX, CGC, TDI, JHD-s, DD, BDD,
BMDCA 'Working Dog') died on Friday afternoon of an autoimmune disease
which was first diagnosed last summer.
Those of us fortunate enough to have watched the team of Molly B & Buck develop over the past five years know that there was a special bond between those two that was magical. Molly B was Buck's first obedience dog and together they learned and shared many adventures in the performance world which took them all the way to a BMDCA Working Dog title. Draft dog extraordinaire titles don't exist, but if one did it would certainly go to Molly B who could draft forwards or backwards, singly or in brace, whatever. Move sheep, where ya want them, was her response. And just to keep her dad humble, from time to time Molly B's sense of humor would surface and she'd entertain the crowd ringside by doing her version of the Berner frapp.
Buck has written a fine tribute to his girl which is posted on the memorial page. Our sincerest sympathy go out to Priscilla and Buck.
February 23, 2006 - Members, please read the following message from Georgeann closely.
All,
Thanks so much for volunteering. Everyone has done just a
wonderful job getting ready! Just a few more days.
We have a nice entry - 199 dogs. The weather is expected to
cooperate, so it looks like we are all set. Here is the schedule:
Friday, Feb 24th. Set up begins @ 1pm. Valerie and George
have the layout and will be giving us all direction on what goes
where. Rau Dog is expected about 1:30 pm and Capital Equipment
Rental will be there around 1 pm to deliver the chairs and
tables. Hubby, Bob is making homemade soup, cornbread to serve to
all around 3 pm to give us a little extra energy. I've invited the
good folks from Rau Dog Shows to join us. Gina Gallucci
Reporter for the Frederick News-Post will arrive around 3:30 pm to
interview our wonderful volunteers. She is covering the story over
the weekend.
Saturday, Feb 25th. Doors open @ 7am. @ 8 am, Scout Troop 1023
will present colors while Ms Daniel Greene sings the National
Anthem. Judging begins @ 8:30. Sweeps begins @ 12:30 pm. Our
reception will be held immediately following Sweeps.
Sunday, Feb 26th. Doors open @ 7am. @ 8 am, Scout Troop 1023 will
present colors while Ms Daniel Greene sings the National Anthem. Jr.
Showmanship judging begins immediately following the National
Anthem. Conformation judging follows Jr. Show until BISS.
Cleanup will follow AFTER Stud, Brood and Brace. Clean up may begin around
the crating areas, but please not around the ring until after these
final classes. For those of you who are not staying the whole day,
plan on returning before 3 pm. Please bring push brooms if you have
them, or a shop vac.
Lunches are available Saturday & Sunday for all volunteers.
Please check in with the Information Booth to get your name tag.
Any questions, please contact me on my cell phone 703 403 9193.
Sincerely and with the warmest appreciation for all your hard work,
Georgeann
February 16, 2006 - From Show Chair, Georgeann Reeve -
Hello,
Wow! How time flies! Next weekend is the date! Frederick
County Fairgrounds is the venue. Looking forward to seeing everyone.
P.S. Have you sent in your photo for the contest? C'mon, you know
you have the winning photo! Still time to get it mounted! Hurry,
hurry, hurry while the photo ink is still warm!!! Only a few
entries for some of the categories - now is your time to 'crop up'
and support your club.
Georgeann
February 16, 2006 - From Andrea Stefanac -
I am very proud to announce that Chris was selected as the VALVT's (Virginia Association of Licensed Veterinary Technicians) Virginia Veterinary Technician of the Year for 2005. His boss and a coworker wrote the nomination letters. This is a huge honor and is a great acknowledgement of Chris' outstanding knowledge and dedication to pet care and to the veterinary technology field. The award was given on February 3rd but we had a trip out of town the next day, so I'm just now getting the word out.
Congratulations, Chris, from all your friends at PVBMDC!
February 13, 2006 - From Carol Lundquist -Dyna and I have participated in a couple of hikes with the Swissies for their Pack Dog Hike
Title. I thought others may like to know about up coming hikes. All breeds are welcome to join us with or without a pack. More info can be found at
www.gsmdca.org We have had lots of fun! The next hike in this area is Sunday April 9th at the Bull Run/Occoquon Trail in Fairfax County. Below is the announcement but anyone who is interested in more info is welcome to contact me. Thanks, Carol
Bull Run/Occoquan Trail Hike Announcement
Sunday, April 9, 2006 - Bull Run/Occoquan Trail, Fairfax County, VA
This will be a 10 mile day hike and successful completion will count as one leg toward a GSMDCA
pack dog title. The hike is approved by the GSMDCA.
The hike will begin at 9:00 AM with pack weigh-in to start at 8:30. There will be no fee for the hike.
Hikers will be responsible for bringing and carrying their own lunches. Teams successfully completing the
event will receive a ribbon or certificate.
The Bull Run/Occoquan Trail runs approximately 20 miles in Fairfax County, VA, connecting Bull Run
Regional Park in the northwest and Fountainhead Regional Park in the southeast. The trail follows
the Bull Run stream and the Occoquan Reservoir. The Potomac Appalachian Trail Club (http://www.patc.net)
maintains this trail. More specific information on the entire trail, along with trail maps, can be found
at:
http://www.patc.net/hiking/destinations/bull_run.html.
This hike will be an out and back day hike. There is negligible increase in elevation so the actual
distance will be 10 miles. Participants should consider this an easy hike due to the absence
of any elevation gain and rocky or overly rough terrain. However the train can be muddy in spots. And as with
any hike, participants should ensure that both they and their dogs are properly conditioned to hike the
distance with the necessary weight.
All participants must practice LNT (Leave No Trace) hiking. Dogs will be required to stay on leash
during the hike, and flexi/retractable leads will not be allowed, as the trail is also frequented by horses
and riders.
Please contact Kevin Mitchell for registration, directions and other questions:
Kevin Mitchell
kjmitchell9@yahoo.com
February 13, 2006 - From Joyce Dickhoff - Dorie Zimmerman's bitch Ch. Witchway's Native Spirit went to Westminster Kennel Club this year. A new experiences for both of them. Spirit made Dorie and her breeder Joyce very happy. She made it to the final cut, no AOM or BB but for a young bitch this was good. Joyce
February 11, 2006 - If you have access to the Frederick cable channel, look for Focus on Frederick's interview with Valerie Chase and Bob and Georgeann Reeve, with dogs Dude and Dorrie. This half-hour program provides an overview of the Bernese Mountain Dog and a promotion for our upcoming Specialty. All "stars" did a great job!
February 10, 2006 - Sincere condolences to Jodi, Dennis & Alyssa Heins on the loss of their beautiful girl "Dream" (Santera Believe In Your Dreams) on Thursday. Dream would have been seven next week.
February 6, 2006 - The Mason-Dixon BMD Club is hosting an Obedience and Conformation Show & Go on Sunday, February 12, at Jane Sweetman's training center in Forest Hill, Md. (near BelAir). Visit Jane's website at http://4pawsspa.com/index.html for directions. The Match flyer is available here.
January 30, 2006 - Apparently the superintendent of our upcoming Specialty experienced some software problems with online registration over the weekend. It's being fixed and should be up and running by tomorrow.
January 30, 2006 - Congrats to Val Chase who drove a heck of a long way to North Carolina this past weekend to pick up two Rally Advance Excellent legs with her side kick Lightning (October Smokestack Lightnin, CD, RA, NDD).
January 26, 2006 - Due to scheduling conflicts at the Walkersville Community Park, we've had to make a change in our annual Match date for 2006. The Match will still be at the Walkersville park but will be on September 16 instead of usual early October date. Please note the change on your calendars now so you don't miss out. The same scheduling conflict at Walkersville has necessitated a change in venue for our 2006 Draft Test. We're trying to keep our October 8 date so we can have a consecutive event to the Watchung Draft Test on October 7. Valerie Chase is working on obtaining another site, so stay tuned for upcoming announcements.
January 25, 2006 - To everyone looking for something to do this weekend (Jan 28-29), Chris and I invite you to join us at the World of Pets Expo at the Maryland State Fairgrounds in Timonium, MD. Chris and I will be there with our Berner boys and our mixed breed as a part of the Classic K-9 Show. We joined the Classic K-9s in the fall when they needed agility dogs at the last minute for their performances at the VA State Fair. We had such fun that we decided to join their group and do some of their other shows. The dogs LOVED performing for this group last fall and we have no doubt they will love it this weekend too.
We have not yet been to this particular event, so we are excited because it looks like it's going to be a huge, fun show. There is also an AKC agility trial at the same location.
For more information visit- _http://www.classick9.com/_ (http://www.classick9.com/show.html) and _http://www.worldofpets.org/_ (http://www.worldofpets.org/) .
We hope to see lots of Berner lovers there! And we will have 'down time' between shows, so please do not hesitate to come over and say Hi! I'm going to try to remember to wear a Berner pin on my uniform shirt so people can identify me.
Hope to see you all there,
Andrea Stefanac
January 21, 2006 - Thanks to George and Sharon Hasenauer for today's "souper" Winter Warm-Up. The weather certainly cooperated, warming up nicely to encourage a nice turnout for a fun day with friends and the dogs. Sandy Novocin shared some handling tips with members interested in the conformation ring, while Valerie Chase gave an overview of Rally Obedience and an opportunity for some practice runs. There was a quorum present which allowed a vote to accept the membership application for for Wendy Keene. Welcome, Wendy!
A big round of applause to our soup cooks, Sharon Hasenauer and Bob Reeve. Nothing better than homemade soup in January!
Just five more weeks to the Specialty. Please contact Georgeann Reeve, Show Chair if you can volunteer to help. No prior experience necessary. Georgeann@pvbmdc.org
January 20, 2006 - From Barbara Yoder: "Steve and I are happy to report that Nico and Lani
finished their AKC championships this week. Both are down in Florida with our handler participating in the
northern FL circuit that began Jan. 6. On Monday, 1/16, Nico went Best of Winners for his
final major of 4 points to complete the required 15 (or more). Last Friday, 1/13, Lani was Winners' Bitch for 3
points, and today she again went Winners' Bitch for 4 points, which completed her 15 points. Jo Ann
(handler) reports that both dogs are showing very well. The circuit ends on Sunday and we will be happy to
have our two companions back home again soon. They
will definitely get a break after this!"
January 1, 2006 - Happy New Year, Everyone! We're looking forward to a super year filled with many happy hours with our Berners and, of course, their favorite human companions. We've just uploaded the 2006 Specialty Page with links to the premium list which is now posted at www.raudogshows.com.
The December newsletter was mailed on Friday. Be sure to open it immediately to read about the upcoming Winter Warm-Up on January 21. You don't want to be left out in the cold on this one! Also, your annual dues notice is enclosed with the news. Dues should be submitted to our new Treasurer, George Hasenauer. One other important insert was sent with the news -- the Club's new Rescue Policy. Please take a few minutes to go over this document. It is important for all members to understand the club's commitment to the welfare of the breed and the legal limitations of our rescue program. Please contact Sharon Hasenauer, Rescue Chair, with questions.
The deadline for 2006 Specialty Catalogs is January 6. Please contact Sandy Novocin immediately if you want to place an ad or show your support on the booster page. Ad details are available here.
Don't forget to work on your pictures for the Photo Contest. Georgeann can help get your photos mounted and submitted on time. Write Georgeann@pvbmdc.org. Photo Contest rules are here.
Remember, this is your Bulletin Board, so please send in your news, Berner tales, comments, etc. We'd love to hear from more members this year.
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"Juniper,
Josie & Robin would like to wish the members