2020 PLANNING BOOKLET

The Bernese Mountain Dog Club of America 45thAnnual National Specialty Show

2020 National Specialty Show Agility, Conformation w/NOHS, Draft, Futurity, Herding,

Junior Showmanship, Obedience, Rally Obedience, Sweepstakes, Top 20 Gala, Tracking, Versatility Showcase, Veteran Sweepstakes, and Veterans

(Unbenched) HOSTED BY

The Bernese Mountain Dog Club of America, Inc. and the Bernese Mountain Dog Clubs of the

Finger Lakes, Watchung, Mason Dixon, and Potomac Valley

Sunday, May 3rd to Saturday, May 9th HOST HOTEL

Delta Marriott Hunt Valley Inn 245 Shawan Rd

Hunt Valley MD 21031 (410) 785-7000

EVENTS TO TAKE PLACE INDOORS AT Delta Marriott Hunt Valley Inn

unless otherwise noted

www.bmdca.org/specialty/2020

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WWELCOMEELCOME On behalf of the Specialty Show Committee, welcome to the 2020 National Specialty in scenic Hunt Valley, Maryland. Our theme is “Looking to the Future.” Our mascot is “Hunter” who embodies the history of the region as a strong horse farm and race area, as the Preakness, and various point-to-point and steeplechase races are held nearby. The 2020 National Specialty will offer an amazing schedule of events, with something for every Berner lover. Participate in or watch Conformation, Sweepstakes, Veteran Sweepstakes, Futurity, and Versatility, as well as three Draft Tests, Obedience, Rally Obedience, Agility, Tracking and Herding Trials! In addition, learn something new at Berner University. Take advantage of the Canine Good Citizen Tests, Trick Dog Certification, Health Clinics, Berner Garde, and Longshots. Enjoy the Photo Contest, Rescue Gallery, Titleholders Gallery, and Veterans Parade. And do not forget to visit our wonderful Raffle and Vendor booths for some relaxation and shopping! Our host hotel, with its beautiful horse and riding décor, will host Conformation, Obedience, and Rally Obedience, all indoors. Our three Draft tests are a short 5-minute drive away at the Maryland Agricultural Center. Agility is being held at Bella Vista Training Center in Lewisberry, Pennsylvania, a 1-hour drive. Tracking will be at Fair Hill, Maryland, a 1-hour drive away. And Herding will take place at Keepstone Farms in Berryville, Virginia, 1-3/4 hours away. Whatever you choose to do, do not miss our exciting evening activities as well, including a presentation by Dr. Matthew Breen at the Breeders’ Symposium on Monday evening, and our Cakes & Cocktails Welcome Reception on Tuesday! You will find all the details here! The Specialty Show Committee has worked hard to plan for a fun, interesting and memorable National Specialty. Safe travels and we look forward to seeing everyone in Hunt Valley, Maryland, as we are “Looking to the Future”! Jill Shaeffer BMDCA 2020 National Specialty Chair

DDISTINGUISHEDISTINGUISHED PPANELANEL OOFF JJUDGESUDGES Conformation

Best of Breed (Intersex): Ms. Maija Heinilä Regular & Non-Regular Dog Classes, Stud Dog, Brace, and Team: Ms. Diane Anderson Regular & Non-Regular Bitch Classes, and Brood Bitch: Ms. Elin Normannseth Junior Showmanship: Ms. Dawn Cox Futurity: Ms. Stacy Slade Sweepstakes & Veteran Sweepstakes: Ms. Susan Henderson Versatility Showcase: Ms. Stacy Slade

Performance Agility: Mr. Frank Gilmer Draft Test #1: Ms. Christine Mann & Ms. Ruth Nielsen Draft Test #2: Ms. Nancy Van Horne & Mr. Phil Atkinson Draft Test #3: Mr. Jim Maxwell & Ms. Julie Bacon Herding: Dr. Carol Lundquist & Ms. Erin Ledbetter Obedience Trial: Mr. Michael P. Mooney, Ms. Karen Wrey, and Ms. Lisa Mitchell Rally Obedience Trial: Ms. Karen Wrey Tracking: Mr. Jack Sappenfield II & Ms. Michele Gillette

Additional Events Canine Good Citizen & Trick Dog: Ms. Donna Wesemann

 

TTRAVELRAVEL IINFORMATIONNFORMATION The Hotel is conveniently located near I-83. Due to traffic conditions, it is suggested that you determine alternate routes while planning your trip. The routes below are for general route reference. From the North: From I-95 South, take I-695 West toward Towson. Take exit 24 for I-83 N toward York Pa/Timonium. From I-83 N, take exit 20A to merge onto Shawan Rd east toward Cockeysville. Immediately move into the far right lane. The entrance to the hotel is just off the ramp. From the South: From I-95 North, take I-695 West toward Towson. Take exit 24 for I-83 N toward York Pa/Timonium. Continue as above. From the West: From I-70 East, take exit 91B-A onto I-695 North towards Towson and New York. Take exit 24 for I-83 North toward York Pa/Timonium. Continue as above. Suggested Airports: There are three international airports that provide service to the Greater Baltimore area. They are listed here with approximate drive time to the host hotel: BWI Thurgood Marshall (BWI) 45 minutes; Washington Dulles (IAD) 1.75 hours; and Philadelphia (PHL) 1.75 hours. If you wish to coordinate travel plans to the show site with others, check out the 2020 BMDCA Specialty Paddock on Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/groups/1567962213337435/ 

AACCOMMODATIONSCCOMMODATIONS HOST HOTEL

Delta Marriott Hunt Valley Inn, 245 Shawan Rd, Hunt Valley, Maryland 21031, Phone (410) 785-7000 Located on 17 acres of green parkland within a commercial complex in Maryland’s Hunt Valley, just north of Baltimore, The Delta Marriott Hunt Valley Inn reflects the area’s rich history. The Hotel’s vibe is contemporary yet elegant, in a comfortable equestrian style. The Delta Marriott Hunt Valley Inn is easily accessible to popular regional leisure venues and attractions that make the Baltimore area an enjoyable experience for all. Nearby attractions are listed on the 2020 Specialty website. Please note that Marriott Corporate Policies will not permit specific room types, i.e., 1st first-floor walk-out – limited number available, to be assigned prior to actual check-in. Requests will be filled by the desk on a first check-in basis if available. As a consideration to those with limited mobility, reservations for accessible rooms should be made only by those with these constraints. There shall will be no saving of parking lot spaces. Information regarding the rooms, cancellation policies, dog requirements and other hotel information is available on the BMDCA website http://www.bmdca.org/specialty/2020/hotel.php HOUSEKEEPING—PET POLICY & EXPECTATIONS Please keep in mind that it is becoming increasingly difficult to find properties suitable to host this event. We ask your cooperation in leaving all hotel rooms and other areas clean, neat, and tidy. Additionally, we expect everyone to always be gracious to hotel staff and management. The Specialty Show Committee will be in daily contact with the housekeeping staff to monitor situations that require intervention. We encourage guests to inspect their rooms when they check in, and if they see any damage or excessive wear and tear, please inform the front desk upon check-in. Guests must immediately bring any damage to the attention of the hotel housekeeping staff. Each guest will be required to read and sign a Pet Agreement accepting responsibility for the dogs staying in their care/room. There will be a $40 non-refundable pet deposit due upon check-in from the principle occupant of each room with a dogs. Dogs are to be crated at all times when not under direct supervision. Plastic is required under all crates (which will be supplied by the hotel). Dogs must be on a leash and are not allowed in the pool area, or in any food service area. No bathing or grooming of dogs in guest rooms or public areas, outside of the designated areas. The use of hotel towels/bedding for pets is

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prohibited. Guests are required to bring sheets to cover hotel bedding. Participants who do not comply with the hotel rules or Pet Agreement will be required to vacate the premises immediately. ALTERNATIVE & OVERFLOW HOTELS Please check hotels for number of dogs permitted and pet fee.

Residence Inn, 45 Schilling Rd, Hunt Valley, MD 21031, Phone (410) 527-2333

Holiday Inn Express, 11200 York Rd, Hunt Valley MD 21030, Phone (410) 527-1500

HOST HOTEL CONCESSIONSHOST HOTEL CONCESSIONS Continental style breakfast ($10 and up) and full American style breakfast ($15 and up) will be available daily from 6:30-11:00am in the Cinnamon Tree Restaurant. Café 245 will also be open 6:00am-3:00pm for a quick bite to eat and Starbuck’s coffee. The hotel will offer options for lunch and dinner as well. 

RV PARKING & OFFSITE CAMPING INFORMATIONRV PARKING & OFFSITE CAMPING INFORMATION There will be 20 RV spots available at the Host Hotel, which can be reserved through Master Registration at $25 per night until capacity is reached. See page 15 for details. You may contact Dean Burwell, RV Chair, dean@pawgate.com for questions. The following offsite RV parks are located near the Host Hotel:

Merry Meadows Recreation Farm (17.8 miles), 1523 Freeland Rd, Freeland MD 21053, Phone: (419) 357-4088, $49-62/night, http://www.merrymeadows.com Ramblin’ Pines Campground (29.8 miles), 801 Hoods Mill Rd, Woodbine MD 21797, Phone: (410) 795-5161, $65/night, https://ramblinpinescampground.com/ Patapsco Valley State Park (22.8 miles), 8020 Baltimore National Pike, Ellicott City MD 21043, Phone: (410) 461-5005, $22-30/night, http://dnr.maryland.gov/publiclands/Pages/central/patapsco.aspx

CCHECKLISTHECKLIST FORFOR IIMPORTANTMPORTANT CCLOSINGLOSING DDATESATES

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March 6 Catalog Ad Submissions

March 13 

Mail In (Postmark) for Master Registration Form (Name Tag & Welcome Bag, Crown Club, Photo Contest Submissions, Pre-Ordered Catalogs, Reserved Grooming, Receptions and Banquets, Titleholders Gallery, Veterans Parade, Health Clinics & Kits, AKC DNA Kits, Berner University, Juniors Activities, etc.)

Rescue Gallery (accessible through online store)

March 20  Trophy Donations for Listing in Catalog Online Registration (see above list) 

April 1 

Photo Contest Entries Entries Close ~ Conformation, Herding, Junior Showmanship, Obedience, Rally Obedience, Versatility Final Deadline for Refund Requests for Master Registration Items 

April 17 TriAthlete Challenge April 23  BMDCA Judges Education Seminar Registrations 

Visit the Tack Shop! http://www.bmdca-store.com/2020-National-Specialty_c_59.html

April 8 Entries Close ~ Agility, Draft, and Tracking

 

2020 SHOW COMMITTEE2020 SHOW COMMITTEE Show Chair Jill Shaeffer (610) 952-8654 jillsberner33@aol.com Asst Show Chair Linda Carney lincsbmd@gmail.com Dawn Cox cox215@comcast.net Bob Reeve bobreeve@earthlink.net Susan VanOcker susanvanocker63@gmail.com BMDCA Specialty Coordinator Dottie Schulte (970) 302-2970 dotties911@aol.com Agility Toby Erlichman drtobs@gmail.com Announcer Bob Torstenson bobt@bernernews.net Banquets Heather Austin heather@heatheraustin.com Berner University & Educational Programs Linda Seaver linda.seaver@gmail.com BMDCA Breeder Education Dawn Cox cox215@comcast.net BMDCA Specialty Budget/Event Plan Mgmt Nancy Van Horne nancy.vanhorne@gmail.com Catalog Ads Production Michelle Keck mkeck@mcall.com Catalog Sales Renee Jacquier rjacq16804@aol.com CGC & Trick Dog Tests Christina Garrett smokeykeepbmd@hotmail.com Conformation Dawn Cox cox215@comcast.net Decorations Robin Greenwood rlgreenwood1@hotmail.com Dog Food Coordinator Sally Wolfgang mountainviewfarms@gmail.com Draft Tests Susan VanOcker susanvanocker63@gmail.com Draft Workshop Jack Crifasi jack4berners@gmail.com Emergency Response Coordinator Ray Harding rharding1981@gmail.com Fundraising Erin Foley & Pam Wehle erin2670@yahoo.com, pwehle1@rochester.rr.com BMDCA Futurity Sandy Dunaway BMDCAFuturity@gmail.com Grooming Susan Morrill crimsonharvestbmd@gmail.com Holly Tonero keevah13@gmail.com Grounds Bob Reeve bobreeve@earthlink.net BMDCA Health Auction Kris Hayko kmbmdlvr@aol.com Angela Hanson angelaberners@bell.net Health Clinics & Kits Sharon Montville shmontville@yahoo.com AHBA Herding Valerie Chase vchase529@att.net BMDCA Specialty Hotel Coordinator Alice Clark aliceann8@hotmail.com Hotel Liaison Georgeann Reeve greeve@earthlink.net BMDCA International Relations Tracey Mann Keith wyndriftbmd@earthlink.net BMDCA Judges Education Deborah Wilkins abbeyroadbmd@gmail.com Judges’ Hospitality Babs Winicur babswinicur@verizon.net Judges’ Welcome Erica Hartt elhartt@gmail.com Juniors’ Activities Danielle & Rachel Meyers thebernerloftjr@icloud.com, twinhearts1@icloud.com BMDCA Specialty Logistics Sandy Dunaway summitbmd@msn.com BMDCA Merchandising Consultant Nancy Stewart arizonabmd@cox.net Newsletter Editor Mary Ann Bowman sontag.bowman@gmail.com Obedience Ruth Nielsen rnielsen@nielsenlaw.com Performance Julie Bacon julie@juliebacon.com Photo Contest Heather Austin heather@heatheraustin.com Planning Booklet Liaison Adam Conn adamconn@aol.com Publicity (Alpenhorn & Social Media) Michelle Keck mkeck@mcall.com Raffle Deborah Reams reamsdeborah@gmail.com Rally Obedience Jennifer Donnelly jennifer@blueribbondog.com BMDCA Specialty Registration Onsite Renee Jacquier rjacq16804@aol.com BMDCA Specialty Registration Online Mona & Gene Williams bmdca.reg@gmail.com Rescue Gallery Patti Finley & Carolyn Paige maxsmagic@msn.com, cjpaige@icloud.com Chief Ring Steward Cindy Meyer cmeyer@ptd.net RV Parking Dean Burwell & Tom Herman dean@pawgate.com, tom@hermanhvac.com BMDCA Store Online Susan Henderson suzbmd@gmail.com Titleholders Gallery Georgeann Reeve greeve@earthlink.net Top Twenty Sara Karl karl3106@comcast.net Murray Johnston murraybjohnston@gmail.com Tracking Angela Evans ovshrooms@gmail.com Transportation/Event Parking Bob Reeve bobreeve@earthlink.net BMDCA Specialty Treasurer Kathy DeHart bmdspecialtytreasurer@outlook.com Triple Crown Club Jill Shaeffer jillsberner33@aol.com Trophies Conformation Joan LaMendola jglamen@yahoo.com Trophies Performance Kim Perry kimperrync@gmail.com Vendor Operations Linda Carney lincsbmd@gmail.com Veterans Parade Wendy Keene justsayberners@gmail.com Volunteers Linda Carney lincsbmd@gmail.com Ways & Means Kelly Moody moodyberner@gmail.com Website Content Jill Shaeffer jillsberner33@aol.com BMDCA Specialty Website Ann Milligan annhmilligan@gmail.com Welcome Bags Pam Wehle pwehle1@rochester.rr.com

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Events will be held at the Delta Marriott Hunt Valley Inn unless otherwise noted.

SUNDAY, MAY 3 BMDCA Board Meeting 8:00am Herding at Keepstone Farm Tracking Test at Fair Hill Draft Workshop 3:00pm Registration near Hotel Lobby 2:00-8:00pm

MONDAY, MAY 4 Registration near Hotel Lobby 8:00am-8:00pm Grooming Area Opens 3:00pm Vendor Move-In 12:00-5:00pm Catalog Sales Open Ways & Means Open Berner University Photo Contest Raffle Rescue/Titleholders Galleries Draft Test #1 & #2 at Maryland Ag Center Breeders Symposium 7:00pm (see pg 16)

TUESDAY, MAY 5 Registration near Catalog Sales 8:00am-4:00pm Berner-Garde Berner University Longshots Photo Contest Raffle Rescue/Titleholders Galleries Draft Test #3 at Maryland Ag Center Obedience Trial Day 1 Futurity Veteran Sweepstakes Classes Welcome Reception 5:30pm Veterans Sweepstakes Finals 7:00pm

WEDNESDAY, MAY 6 International Reception 7:15am Registration near Catalog Sales 9:00am-4:00pm Berner-Garde Health Clinics Longshots Photo Contest Raffle Rescue/Titleholders Galleries Agility Trial at Bella Vista Training Center Sweepstakes Versatility Showcase Classes Regional Club Council 4:00pm Top Twenty Judging Top Twenty Gala

Versatility Showcase Finals (during Top 20 Intermission)

THURSDAY, MAY 7 Registration near Catalog Sales 10:00am-2:00pm Judges’ Education—seminar, ringside mentoring,

and hands-on workshop Longshots Photo Contest Raffle Rescue/Titleholders Galleries Obedience Trial Day 2 Team Obedience Regular Conformation Dog Classes Veteran Dog Classes Non-Regular Classes (Stud Dog) Veterans Parade at Lunch Break Juniors’ Seminar & Social (see pg 13) Health Auction (Buffet 5:30pm, Silent Auction

6:00pm; Live Auction 7:00pm)

FRIDAY, MAY 8 Registration near Catalog Sales 10:00am-2:00pm Judges’ Education—ringside mentoring Longshots Photo Contest (closes at 4:00pm) Raffle Closes at Noon Rescue/Titleholders Galleries Close at Noon Rally Obedience Trial CGC & Trick Dog Regular Conformation Bitch Classes Veteran Bitch Classes Non-Regular Classes (Brood Bitch, Brace, and Team) BMDCA Annual Meeting and Awards Banquet, Doors

Open 6:30pm

SATURDAY, MAY 9 Registration at Catalog Sales Judges’ Education—ringside mentoring Junior Showmanship Best of Breed followed by NOHS Best of Breed, Best

Puppy, Best Veteran, Best Bred-by-Exhibitor Judges’ Dinner, Doors Open 6:30pm

TTENTATIVEENTATIVE SSCHEDULECHEDULE OFOF EEVENTSVENTS

 

CCATALOGATALOG AADVERTISINGDVERTISING Deadline for Ad Submission is March 6 Please consider featuring your special Berner, product, or regional club in the 2020 National Specialty Catalog! It’s a wonderful way to reach a large number of Bernese Mountain Dog enthusiasts in the US and abroad. Introduce your latest Champion, show off your new puppy and/or next generation of Berners, brag about your dog’s accomplishments in breed/performance rings, pay tribute to your veteran dog, or honor events and/or BMD-related products and services. The deadline for ad submissions (both camera-ready and ads requiring design assistance) is March 6th to insure there is adequate time to get your approval and to incorporate your ad in the overall catalog design layout. There will be an additional $10 fee for ads that are not submitted in camera-ready format. Ads submitted after the deadline may be refused or charged a late fee of up to 30%. Ad Sizes & Rates

Two Page Spread—including 2 pictures $140 Full Page, including 1 Picture $75 * Full Page, text only $60 Half Page, including 1 Picture $45* Half Page, text only $35 Triple Crown Club (see pg 8) Members Only Special—Two Full-Page Ads, including 1 picture per page $120* *Add $15 for each additional picture

Ad Specifications Berner-Garde numbers and names are required for specific dogs featured in ads. Full page ad size is 4½" wide x 7 3/16" tall (this also applies for each page of a two page spread). Half page ad size is 4½" wide x 3 9/16" tall. All ads will be printed in black and white/grayscale format and must be submitted as “Camera Ready”. Acceptable submission formats: pdf or jpg (minimum 200 dpi). If you submit in pdf format and the fonts

that you use in your ad in are not available to the Superintendent, the fonts will be changed to the closest match available.

Ads must be paid in full by the March 6th deadline. Ads not paid in full by the deadline will not appear in the catalog. There will be NO REFUNDS. Ad Submission—Two Ways to Submit Online: Pay by credit card at the BMDCA online store at www.bmdca-store.com, and email your camera

ready ad to Catalog Advertising Chair Michelle Keck at mkeck@mcall.com with “2020 Catalog Ad” in the subject line.

By Mail (USPS/FedEx/UPS): Send your camera ready ad on a CD (with a printed copy of the ad) and payment in full (in US Funds, payable to BMDCA 2020) to: 2020 Catalog Advertising Chair, Michelle Keck, 76 Sunset Dr, Jim Thorpe PA 18229. Please provide contact phone numbers (daytime & evening), email address, and home address.

For questions or layout requirements, please contact Michelle Keck, Catalog Advertising Chair, at mkeck@mcall.com.

CCATALOGATALOG SSALESALES Catalogs can be pre-ordered on the Master Registration form for $22 or purchased on-site for $25. Best of Breed “Made the Cut” Booklet – For a nominal $3, catalog purchasers are eligible to acquire this special booklet in Master Registration featuring all of the Best of Breed entries listed in numerical order by sex, with room to add move-ups, veteran class winners, and winners dog and bitch. Perfectly organized and generously spaced for notetaking and tracking the multiple groups and cuts in Breed, this booklet will be your go-to reference. Pick up your pre-purchased booklet ringside on Friday after 12:00pm. Ordering in advance assures that you have a copy waiting. A limited number of extras will be available for on-site purchase.

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DDOGOG FFOODOOD ANDAND SSUPPLIESUPPLIES There are several stores within a reasonable drive to the show site that carry many brands of dog food. Attendees may contact Sally Wolfgang at mountainviewfarms@gmail.com to obtain a list of local stores along with their addresses and phone numbers. Dogs Gone Wild, dgwrawfood.com, will be an onsite vendor. A local Pet Value has also agreed to make a one-time delivery to the show grounds; please contact Sally for information to place your order by April 25.

RRAFFLEAFFLE Opens Monday, May 3, and concludes on Friday, May 8, at Noon Raffles are a huge part of the fun of any specialty! We rely upon lots of wonderful donated prizes every year to reach our goal. Theme baskets are always popular, whether filled with state or regional foods and souvenirs, regional club clothing, grooming tools and supplies from local vendors, or dog toys and treats. Other popular items include drafting, agility, obedience, and herding equipment, crates, dog show needs (travel crates, dollies, portable chairs), anything Swiss (collars, leads, clothing, clocks, antique bells, horns), dog beds, grooming tables, tubs and dryers, dog portraits, books, gift certificates for national chain stores or restaurants, and "Bernerabilia" of all sorts. Please consider making a donation to the raffle—on your own or join forces with friends, local club members, or training groups. Not feeling creative? – we’ll gladly accept your cash donations. Monetary donations can be included on the Master Registration or sent separately, made payable to BMDCA 2020. Contributions of all sizes are greatly appreciated! If you are sending a donated item, please notify us in advance and mail/ship it by April 11th to Deborah Reams, 20772 Rock Harbor Circle, Ashburn VA 20147. If you are joining us in Maryland, please stop by and shop the Raffle! Please contact Deborah Reams at reamsdeborah@gmail.com if you have questions.

TTRIPLERIPLE CCROWNROWN CCLUBLUB As you get ready for your ride into Hunt Valley, please consider joining our Triple Crown Club! Once you are saddled up and ready to go, you will receive a “Specialty” token of our appreciation! There will be many other perks throughout the week, including “First in Line” privileges at select events. To qualify for the Triple Crown Club, choose any combination of the following totaling at least $175: Donate at least $50 to the general specialty fund. Place an ad in the specialty catalog. Triple Crown Club members will have the opportunity to place two full-

page ads for the special price of $120. Sponsor a trophy or donate at least $50 to the general trophy fund. Donate at least $50 to the raffle fund. Along with the special gift and perks, Triple Crown Club members will be acknowledged in the show catalog, specialty newsletter, and at the Annual Awards Banquet. Please follow the established deadlines for trophies and catalog ads. Qualifying donations will be determined via Master Registration. Contact Jill Shaeffer at jillsberner33@aol.com if you have questions. 

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BMDCA BBMDCA BUSINESSUSINESS MMEETINGSEETINGS Sunday, May 3, 2020, 8:00am ~ The In Person Meeting of the Bernese Mountain Dog Club of America, Inc. (BMDCA) Board of Directors will be held in the Garden Room (Lobby Level) at the Delta Marriott Hunt Valley Inn, 245 Shawan Rd, Hunt Valley, Maryland. BMDCA members are invited to attend. Wednesday, May 6, 2020, 4:00pm ~ The Regional Club Council (RCC) Meeting of representatives will be held in the Garden Room (Lobby Level). Representatives from each regional club meet once a year at the National Specialty to effect greater communication between the clubs, Board, and membership. The agenda will be distributed prior to the meeting. Friday, May 8, 2020, 8:00pm ~ The Annual Meeting of the Bernese Mountain Dog Club of America, Inc. (BMDCA) will be held in the Maryland Ballroom (Lobby Level) at the Delta Marriott Hunt Valley Inn, 245 Shawan Rd, Hunt Valley, Maryland. Seats will be provided for those not attending the banquet beforehand. Items for inclusion on the agenda for either the In-Person Board Meeting or the Annual Meeting must be received in writing by Monday, April 1, 2020. Please send your written request and all materials to the Recording Secretary: Carol Lynn Fox, 7110 Demill Ln, Charlotte NC 28215 or via e-mail at foxbmdca@gmail.com. Please CC Georgeann Reeve on all email requests at georgeannbmdca@gmail.com.

LLONGSHOTSONGSHOTS The Specialty Show Committee is pleased to announce that LONGSHOTS will be in Hunt Valley. Pat Long and helpers will be hard at work Tuesday through Friday to take great portraits of your dog(s) to raise money for Berner charities. For the suggested donation of $50.00, you will receive approximately 25 photos of your dog(s), a CD with all the photos taken (or bring a thumb drive), and at least one print. Berner Rescue will be the targeted charity; Longshots donates all of the services and materials so that all of your donation goes to the charity. No reservations are needed; while it's first come, first served, elderly or ill dogs jump to the front of the line. Longshots portrait photos make a perfect gift for Mother's Day (May 10th), birthdays, a thank you gift to your breeder, or simply a gift to yourself to enjoy. Be sure to drop by! Longshots will be located in the Pimlico Room in close proximity to grooming, the conformation rings, and the vendors.

VVENDORSENDORS We offer booth spaces to commercial vendors inside and outside the Host Hotel. Commercial booth spaces are 10’ x 10’. This will be on a first-come, first-paid system and preference will be given to longer reservations if space becomes limited. Vendors must stay five days at a minimum. No refunds will be made for “no shows” or vendors staying fewer days. Vendor set-up will begin on Monday, May 4 at 9:00am. All vendor spaces must be vacated by 5:00pm on Saturday, May 9. Contact Linda Carney at lincsbmd@gmail.com for questions or a vendor space request form.

TTROPHIESROPHIES, R, RINGING FFAVORSAVORS, , ANDAND RROSETTESOSETTES Please donate for the trophies, ring favors, and rosettes for the 2020 National Specialty. Show your support through a sponsorship in your name or your kennel name, or donate in memory of a loved one or in honor of a special dog. Visit the BMDCA online store www.bmdca-store.com to sponsor a trophy or make a donation to the general trophy fund. You can also make a general trophy fund donation through Master Registration. All paid donations must be received by March 20, 2020 to be recognized in the show catalog. Contact the Conformation Trophy Chair, John LaMendola, at jglamen@yahoo.com or the Performance Trophy Chair, Kim Perry, at kimperrync@gmail.com for questions. 

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RRECEPTIONSECEPTIONS & B& BANQUETSANQUETS Lunch Options at the Host Hotel The Cinnamon Tree Restaurant is open daily from 11am-2pm, with a varied and inventive menu. The Polo Lounge & Bar has limited hours and offers a more traditional pub menu. Café 245 is open daily until 3pm and is the ideal place to pick up a quick bite to eat and a Starbucks beverage. Lunches for Off-Site Events Agility, Draft, and Herding attendees will have the opportunity to preorder or get lunch at or near respective sites. Tracking attendees will be on their own for lunch. Lunch preorders will be handled by the event Secretary and not through Master Registration. Information will be included in premium lists.  Cakes & Cocktails Welcome Reception—Tuesday, May 5, Hunt Valley Ballroom Assembly Area Cocktails and tasty bites service begins at 5:30pm, followed by Veterans Sweepstakes final judging in Hunt Valley Ballroom at 7:00pm Kick off your Berner-filled week in Maryland at the Welcome Reception. Enjoy Maryland-themed food and drinks—crab cakes and the locally famous “Black-eyed Susan” cocktails and cupcakes, while you reconnect with friends. Maryland takes tailgating at the races to a new level and this evening will give you a sample of that experience and its unique cuisine, as you wander from tailgate to tailgate visiting friends. Wristband/Ticket required for reception. $28 International Reception—Wednesday, May 6, Garden Room, 7:15am (see pg 11 for details) Sign up for this event through Master Registration. USA BMDCA members $12; International attendees No Fee Health Auction Comfort Food Buffet—Thursday, May 7, Cinnamon Tree Restaurant, 5:30pm (see pg 11 for details) Join us for a Mashpotini Bar (mashed potatoes in a martini glass with lots of mouthwatering toppings and vegetarian options); served from 5:30-7:30pm. Cash bar. Sign up for this event through Master Registration. Wristband/Ticket required for buffet dinner. $25 Annual Meeting & Awards Banquet - Friday, May 8, Maryland Ballroom Cocktails/Doors Open 6:30pm; Dinner 7:30pm Hats and flats are what Marylanders wear to all the horsey events. Whether it’s a fox-hound show, stirrup cup, polo match, or steeplechase race, you will feel perfectly dressed in your pretty hat (or bowler) and comfy shoes. Hat contest with $100 cash prize. Sit down, relax, and cheer for the 2019 awardees after you savor each course of this locally inspired dinner. Our dinner will be served buffet style, and includes salad, local specialty She Crab Soup, local Rockfish, Chicken Picatta, Vegetarian Lasagna, Cheddar Mac n Cheese, and fresh season vegetables. Chef’s choice desserts. Beverages will include iced and hot tea and coffee. Cash bar. The BMDCA Annual Meeting will begin at 8:00pm, and includes presentation of awards. Additional seating will be available for BMDCA members and others wishing to attend only the Annual Meeting and/or Awards Presentation following the dinner. Wristband/Ticket required for admittance to dinner. $50 Judges’ Dinner - Saturday, May 9, Maryland Ballroom Cocktails/Doors Open 6:30pm; Dinner 7:00pm It will have seemed like a long race to get here, but now you can wrap up your week of Berner immersion with reflections from our esteemed judges on the week’s competition. This seated dinner includes an entrée choice of Maryland Crab Cakes, Flat Iron Steak, or Vegetable Beggars Purse (lentils, grilled vegetables, and mushrooms in a puff pastry with marinara sauce), with Chef-made sides and Chocolate Mousse Cups for dessert. Beverages will include iced and hot tea and coffee. Cash bar. Judges’ comments begin at 8:30pm, followed by closing moments. No charge to join the event for judges’ comments portion of the evening. Wristband/Ticket required for admittance to dinner. $50 For questions or dietary needs, please contact Heather Austin at heather@heatheraustin.com. Limited Reserved Dinner Tables A limited number of reserved tables (seating 8) will be available at the Awards Banquet & Judges’ Dinner for $100 per night on a first-come, first-served basis through Master Registration.

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IINTERNATIONALNTERNATIONAL GGUESTUEST RRECEPTIONECEPTION Greetings to all foreign guests! The BMDCA will host an informal breakfast with international attendees in the Garden Room (Lobby Level) on Wednesday, May 6th, at 7:15am, in order to introduce ourselves and socialize. The founder of the Triathlete Award, Ruth Nielsen, will present information about the variety of competitive and companion events that Bernese can enjoy in the United States. We will also share information about a variety of topics of interest concerning Bernese. If you desire a ringside mentor to be available to you during Wednesday’s Sweepstakes judging to provide explanations of show procedures, please let us know and we will arrange one for you. USA BMDCA members who wish to attend are most welcome, but will be required to pay a small fee. Sign up for this event through Master Registration. Contact Tracey Keith at wyndriftbmd@earthlink.net or Lilian Ostermiller at losterm@optonline.net if you have any questions.

HHEALTHEALTH AAUCTIONUCTION Thursday, May 7, Cinnamon Tree Restaurant and Garden Room Saddle up and hang on to your hats for a wild ride at the 2020 Health Auction. Mark your calendar for a night at the races! Our stewards have been working hard to gather one of a kind and unique items. There will be something for everyone! New this year is the “Sweepstakes” and the amazing Silent Auction beginning at 6:00pm. The Live Auction, a thrilling, high stakes event, will be out of the gates at 7:00pm. Enjoy the Mashpotini Bar (available through Master Registration) while your bidding efforts support our beautiful breed. Cash bar. There is no cost to attend the Health Auction, and it is a great way to spend an evening with friends enjoying comfort food, drinks, and a little fun competition. Come wager and bid for the love of our Berners. The evening’s proceeds will support the BMDCA Health Fund at the Berner-Garde Foundation through the Fiscal Sponsorship agreement between the BMDCA and the Berner-Garde Foundation. The Berner-Garde Foundation is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization; all contributions will be fully tax-deductible as allowed by IRS regulation. To donate items for the event, please contact the Health Auction Chairs, Kris Hayko at kmbmdlvr@aol.com or Angela Hanson at angelaberners@bell.net. Keep an eye out for current updates on the Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/groups/1567962213337435/. The deadline for item donations is April 15. You can always make a cash donation as well—there are many costs associated with putting on the auction that can be offset with your generous donation.

SSPECIALPECIAL DDOGOG SSHOWHOW EEVENTSVENTS The FAN Award The Fan Award will be awarded at the Awards Banquet to the oldest male and female dog exhibited at the Specialty, including parades. The award is offered by Friends of the Fan Award in loving memory of "Fan" Camelot's Fantasy and Meg Auger, who sponsored the award from 2003-2015. TRIATHLETE Challenge—Entry forms due April 17, 2020 Are you and your dog a multi-tasking team? Set your sights on the Specialty Triathlete Challenge! The Specialty Triathlete Award is given at the Awards Banquet to EACH berner/handler team who earns a qualifying leg or passing score in three or more different working venues. Yes, you can do it all! The eligible events are Tracking (all classes), Herding (JHD or higher), Rally Obedience (regular classes only), Obedience (regular classes only—novice, open, utility), Agility (all classes), and Draft (all classes). Only one score or performance in each venue will count towards this award. If your dog can pull, heel, sniff, run, and jump—just pick your venues and go for the gold! The Specialty Triathlete Awards will be something to treasure. Award offered by Ruth Nielsen, Mazama Mountain Dogs. To be eligible, download and complete the Triathlete Challenge form on the Specialty website and email to RNielsen@Nielsenlaw.com no later than April 17, 2020. Questions? - email Ruth at RNielsen@Nielsenlaw.com. Mailed entries also accepted, send to Ruth Nielsen, 3909 Interlake Ave N, Seattle WA 98103.

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PPHOTOHOTO CCONTESTONTEST Our Berners are so photogenic that anyone can capture amazing images of this striking breed. Choose a few of your favorite photos to share with everyone at the Specialty and compete for Best Photo in Show! Categories

Farm Dog – Showcase the farm dog roots of our breed with images of Berner life on the farm. Puppies! – No explanation needed. We all have hundreds of these pictures! Sentimental Favorite – Show off your heart dog doing what pulls on your heartstrings. Senior Moment – Show off your beautiful, veteran Berner (7 years & up). Mountain Dogs – Show how Berners love the mountain life! Black and White - Classic format to capture the spirit of your Berner.

Judging & Prizes The People’s Choice Award will be decided by popular vote at the National Specialty. Voting will close on Friday, May 8, at 4:00pm. Winners of each of the six categories will receive a rosette and compete for Best Photo in Show. Best Photo in Show and People’s Choice will receive a rosette and a custom, one-of-a-kind crystal bowl etched with their winning image. A panel of three professional Maryland-based photographers that specialize in images of animals will judge the contest. Entries Entry fees are $10 for the first photo and $6 for each additional entry. There is no entry limit. Checks should be made payable in US funds to “BMDCA 2020.” Mail your photos and entry fees to: Heather Austin, 2310 Gadd Rd, Cockeysville MD 21030 Contest Rules Photos may not exceed 8”x10” and must be mounted on an 8x10 stiff board. No mattes or frames. All images must be the original work of the entrant. Permission from photographic subjects is the sole

responsibility of the entrant. No identifying names or markings on the front of the photo. Attach entry form to the back of each photo. The BMDCA will not be responsible for lost or damaged photos. Photos must remain on display until Friday, May 8, at 4:00pm, at which time entrants have until 30 minutes

following the Annual Meeting and Awards Banquet to pick up their photos. All remaining photos will become the property of the BMDCA unless prepaid packaging and shipping for images has been provided.

One entry form per image, please. Payment for multiple entries may be made with one check shipped with images.

Deadline: April 1, 2020 (postmark) For additional information or questions, contact Heather Austin at heather@heatheraustin.com.

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PHOTO CONTEST REGISTRATION Name: 

Address: 

City/State/Zip: 

Phone:  Email: 

Category: 

Yes  No  I donate this photo to be used as a fundraising item. 

$  Fee Due 

 

JJUNIORSUNIORS AACTIVITIESCTIVITIES Junior Showmanship Handling Seminar, Run Through, and Ice Cream Social Thursday, May 7, after the conclusion of events in the Hunt Valley Ballroom Junior attendees (age 9-18), come join your friends for a hands-on Handling Seminar, Run Through, and Ice Cream Social! Please dress in casual attire and bring your dog and show lead to the Hunt Valley Ballroom show ring. Various professional handlers and breeders will discuss all aspects of dog showing, including grooming, safety and control, junior showmanship, ring etiquette, and good sportsmanship and will teach a personal handling seminar. After the seminar, there will be a run through, giving you an opportunity to practice your new handling skills. Immediately following the run through, all juniors are invited to the Make Your Own Sundae Bar in the Chase Meeting Room for fun and socialization (friendly dogs allowed). Participants will receive a grooming smock at the conclusion of the event! Contact Danielle Meyers at thebernerloftjr@icloud.com if you have any questions. Juniors Registration Junior attendees should complete the Master Registration form to receive a welcome bag and register for junior activities, as well as other events. Fees indicated apply unless otherwise specified. Berner University Monday, May 4th, and Tuesday, May 5th, see page 16. Registration fees are waived for Juniors (age 9-18). Please submit a Berner University registration for the attendee.

VVETERANSETERANS PPARADEARADE PARADE OF VETERANS TO BE HELD THURSDAY, MAY 7, 2020, During Lunch Break Do you have a Berner that has celebrated their seventh birthday on or before May 7, 2020? If so, enter your dog in the Veterans Parade. This is an exciting annual event held at the National Specialty to celebrate our older dogs. This event is for any Berner that qualifies by age. Your veteran will receive a special gift and rosette to commemorate the occasion. Fee per dog is $25. TWO CONVENIENT WAYS TO REGISTER MAIL IN: Complete the form below & mail with Master Registration form (postmark by March 13th). ONLINE: Register for the parade online through Master Registration no later than March 20th. Questions? Contact Wendy Keene at justsayberners@gmail.com. No gifts will be mailed. All gifts must be picked up immediately following the Parade.

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VETERANS PARADE Owner Name: 

Phone:  Email: 

Veteran’s Birthdate:   Dog’s Registered Name: 

(include all titles) 

Dog’s Call Name:    Male    Female 

Brief bio: (maximum 300 characters) 

 

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RRESCUEESCUE GGALLERYALLERY The perfect way to celebrate our rescued Berners is to tell their story in the Rescue Gallery! Regardless of whether your Berner was rescued by a regional club, private group, or individual, or if they came from a puppy mill, broker, online site, or other bad situation, theirs is a story worth sharing. The Rescue Gallery replaced the annual Rescue Parade in 2006 and was chaired by Nell Ward through 2014, followed by Ron & Kristi Davis from 2015 through 2017. Patti Finley and Carolyn Paige took the reins in 2018. Even those dogs who have crossed the Rainbow Bridge will be honored. The Rescue Gallery will be prominently displayed on the lobby level near the Garden Room. A story book will also be printed that contains the same pictures and stories on display for those entered, those entered but not attending, and for individual purchase. The Rescue Gallery is now easily accessible through the BMDCA online store at http://www.bmdca-store.com/Rescue_c_77.html, where you can customize your participation from a full package with a personalized pin, custom yellow bandana, and story book, to a display-only package. Have more than one rescue? You’ll be able to customize your packages to honor those special dogs. Just a reminder to carefully follow the instructions provided in the online store for your write-up and photo. And whether you have a rescue dog in your home, in your heart, or just want to help support those most in need, don’t forget to make a donation to Rescue. Deadline: March 13, 2020 If you have questions about the Rescue Gallery, including how to obtain a Berner-Garde identification number for your rescue dog, contact Patti Finley at at maxsmagic@msn.com, (502) 592-5856, or Carolyn Paige at cjpaige@icloud.com, (919) 451-5681.

TITLEHOLDERS GALLERY Owner(s) Name: 

Phone:  Email: 

Dog’s Registered Name: 

(include all titles) 

Dog’s Call Name:  

TTITLEHOLDERSITLEHOLDERS GGALLERYALLERY Has your Berner earned an AKC, CKC, BMDCA, or BMDCC title in agility, conformation, dock diving, draft, herding, obedience, rally obedience, scent work, and/or tracking? Berners honored in the Titleholders Gallery will be displayed near the Hotel Lobby and will receive a commemorative rosette and gift. Fee per dog is $25. TWO CONVENIENT WAYS TO REGISTER MAIL IN: Complete the form below & mail with Master Registration form (postmark by March 13th). ONLINE: Register online through Master Registration no later than March 20th. If you have questions, contact Georgeann Reeve at greeve@earthlink.net. Gifts will be available for pickup on Friday, May 8th, in the display area from 12:00-1:30pm. No gifts will be mailed.

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OONN--SSITEITE RV PRV PARKINGARKING There are 20 RV Parking Spaces available at the Host Hotel only through Master Registration on a first paid, first served basis for $25 per night from Sunday, May 3 through Saturday, May 9. RVs shall be parked in a designated area only as assigned. Application for an RV Parking Space implies acknowledgement and agreement to adhere to all RV restrictions and rules. For additional information contact RV Chair Dean Burwell at dean@pawgate.com. No hook-up RV services are available for spots at the host hotel site. Water is available for refill only. Please indicate the date of arrival and pay for the associated number of nights for your reservation, as well

as the size of your RV, including any slideouts. Spaces will be assigned based on this information. RV parking is only allowed in a designated area as assigned. Absolutely NO RV parking outside of

designated area. Everyone assigned a space will be sent a cell phone number to call for assistance with parking on arrival.

Absolutely no parking after 11:00pm.  Quiet time will be from 11:00pm-6:00am, however, generators will be permitted to run during this time.  RVs must have an exhaust stack.  No black/grey water dumping. No use of sawdust or shaving.  The RV chairman will contact those holding reservations to confirm information after registration closes.

Instructions for those who wish to have honeywagon service for an additional fee are provided on the additional information form, which is incorporated in online registration and posted on the website.  

Reserved grooming van/box truck parking spaces are not accessible with an RV Parking Space pass. The RV Parking Pass is not a bailment. The BMDCA, BMDCFL, BMDCW, MDBMDC, and PVBMDC, their

respective executive boards, officers, members, agents, superintendents, and the Delta Marriott Hunt Valley Inn will not be responsible for damages, loss, or injury which may be sustained on the grounds of the Delta Marriott Hunt Valley Inn, including the disappearance, loss, or theft of any dogs.

DDRAFTRAFT WWORKSHOPORKSHOP FORFOR BBEGINNERSEGINNERS Sunday, May 3, 4:30-6:30pm, Chase Room Your Berner is a working dog who needs a fun job that combines exercise and teamwork – the essence of drafting! This hands-on training workshop will give you an opportunity to try carting for the first time with your Berner partner in a controlled and safe environment. The workshop will focus on beginners and teams which have not passed the Novice test. Participants will be introduced to skills needed to work with a draft dog and to requirements for the BMDCA draft test. All dogs should be at least 1 year old and have some basic obedience training, but no drafting experience is needed. No cart weights will be used. A limited number of harnesses and training equipment are available for sharing; please bring your own if you have them. You will learn the fundamentals of drafting: fitting your dog with a harness and proper sizing and setup of carts/wagons; first-time handling with 2x4 drag bars, followed by sleds; controlling with hand and voice commands; introducing dog to the shafts on cart; controlling as your dog pulls a cart (if the dog is ready!); and sharing of ideas and advice for further training at home. We will go at a pace that is right for your dog with experienced handlers who will help you with commands and handling techniques in a logical training sequence. The workshop will be led by Mr. Jack Crifasi, an experienced draft clinic trainer whose dogs have achieved Grand Master Draft Dog, Master Draft Dog, and Master Brace Draft Dog titles. All dogs must be crated or on leash at all times except during off-lead drafting exercises. No bitches in season will be allowed in the training area. Participation in this workshop is on a first come, first served basis through Master Registration until limits are reached. Fees: $25 per Working Dog Team, limit 12; $10 Active Auditor without dog, limit 12 (some participation required to help handlers).

 

BBERNERERNER UUNIVERSITYNIVERSITY Monday, May 4 and Tuesday, May 5, Salons C, D, E, F Welcome to Berner U! Join us and “Come back to school and major in Berners”. Our conference this year represents a unique opportunity of unparalleled value for Berner owners, so invite your friends, neighbors, and puppy owners. We are pleased to present a faculty of experienced BMDCA members and distinguished veterinarians who are willing to share their expertise to safeguard your dog’s health and enrich your experience as a Berner guardian. Complete class descriptions and faculty biographies are online at the Berner University website: www.BernerU.org.

Registration: The registration fee of $50 per person permits you to attend two days of seminars and workshops, as well as receive access to the 2020 Dropbox full of educational materials suggested by our faculty.

Juniors, ages 9-18 years old, receive FREE REGISTRATION for all classes and FREE DROPBOX access. Register online or via snail mail, instructions are on the Master Registration. Select the classes you

prefer for each time period. Contact Tracey Keith, Berner U Registrar for all Berner U communications at berneruregistrations@earthlink.net. Register early, as space is limited for some workshops.

Classes OPEN TO ALL, without charge will include the Breeder Symposium and Rescue 24/7.   If you plan to attend the Breeder Symposium, please indicate on your Master Registration so that we can

provide sufficient seating. Well behaved dogs are welcome in all classes.   Bonus Benefit for BMDCA members: If you can not attend, you will still receive access to the 2020

Dropbox of resources at no charge in the weeks following the specialty. 

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  9 – 11 AM  Noon – 2 PM  3 – 5 PM  7-9 PM

M O N D A Y 

 Canine Oral Care 101 Kirk Herrmann DVM 

Genetics of Histiocytic Sarcoma 

Jacquelyn Evans DVM  BMDCA BREEDER SYMPOSIUM

Berner Cancer Research Results

Matthew Breen PhD CBiol FRSB

OPEN TO EVERYONE 

 Whelping 101 

Samantha Judge DVM & Sue Brightman 

Choosing A Sire Jessica Hekman DVM PhD 

 Draft Trial Preparation 

Barbie Wilczek 

Advancements in Oncology Craig Clifford DVM MS DACIM

Kristin Kicenuik DVM Cassandra Wilcox DVM 

Obedience Trial Preparation Lisa Baldwin 

T U E S D A Y 

 Genetics 101 Bert Klei PhD 

AKC BMDCA Breed Standard BMDCA Breed Mentor(s) 

Rescue 24/7 Kathy Deyo 

OPEN TO EVERYONE 

  Foundations of Dog Sports 

Shannon Hall BLOAT!

Kathy Berge DVM   

 End of Life Care, Loss, and

Grief Mary-Ann Bowman PhD 

Integrative Veterinary Care 101 

Sara Fox Chapman DVM 

Freestyle 201: Twists, Turns & Tricks 

Marjorie Geiger 

Herding 101 Buck Sykes 

BARC Update Amy Kessler 

 

HHEALTHEALTH CCLINICSLINICS & K& KITSITS Wednesday, May 6, 2020, 8:00am-4:00pm Pre-registration required. Please indicate on registration form if you prefer AM or PM appointments. Contact Sharon Montville, Health Clinic & Kits Coordinator, at shmontville@yahoo.com if you have questions. Cardiac Clinic~Chesapeake Suite Parlor Room 1011: Full details not available at time of printing—updates will be available on the BMDCA Specialty website. A board certified veterinary cardiologist will perform cardiac evaluations using auscultation (a non-invasive procedure). A screening echocardiogram can be performed on request with an additional fee of $275. OFA requires dogs be at least one year of age when examined to receive cardiac clearance. Fee: $45* Eye Clinic~Chase Room: Full details not available at time of printing—updates will be available on the BMDCA Specialty website. A board certified ophthalmologist will examine your dog's eyes with dilation to detect inherited eye diseases such as cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), and retinal dysplasia. The examination is quick and painless and is required for registration by OFA. Annual examination is recommended for all dogs that are involved in a breeding program. ARRIVE 10-15 minutes prior to the exam to dilate the pupils. It is recommended that the examination be performed after your dog has completed judging for the day. The effect of the eye drops lasts approximately 3 hours . Fee: $40* OFA Thyroid Testing~Tack Room: A veterinarian will be available to collect blood samples for OFA Thyroid Certification. Samples will be submitted to Michigan State University and tested for fT4, cTSH and TgAA. Fee: $105 Health Clinics Reminders Forms and your appointment time(s) will be included in your registration packet. Every effort will be made to accommodate

rescheduling requests due to event conflicts, but this can’t be guaranteed. Please be on time for your appointment(s) and remember to bring your dog’s AKC registration number, date of birth, and tattoo/

microchip/DNA information. A microchip scanner will be on hand as well. *Fees cover evaluations and forms only; submission of results to OFA requires additional fees payable directly to OFA, with the

exception of the Thyroid Test. Submission of findings to Berner-Garde is encouraged.

Kits ordered will be included in your registration packet. If you have any questions, please contact Sharon Montville, Health Clinic & Kits Coordinator, at shmontville@yahoo.com. GenSol DNA Tests for Type 1 Von Willebrand's Disease, Degenerative Myelopathy (DM), or Degenerative Myelopathy (SOD1B): Fee: $25 each GenSol cheek swab kits never expire and can be used for any test regardless of the test you ordered. You always have the option to change your mind. These tests may be completed at home and returned directly to GenSol. Type I Von Willebrand’s Disease DNA Test (GenSol) Type I von Willebrand's disease in Bernese Mountain Dogs occurs as the mild form, as distinguished from the severe form, which occurs in Scottish Terriers and Shetland Sheep Dogs. It is characterized by the abnormally low production of a protein found in the blood called von Willebrand's factor which plays a key role in the complex process of clotting a damaged blood vessel.

Degenerative Myelopathy (DM) Tests (GenSol): Both the DM SOD1(A) and SOD1(B) tests are necessary to determine the risk category for your dog: Clear, Carrier, At Risk. DM tests for the common gene mutation found in several breeds. If you have had only one test done previously for your Berner, it is likely the test you used was SOD1(A), and it does not need to be repeated. SOD1(B) tests for the second mutation that seems to affect ONLY Bernese Mountain Dogs. Degenerative myelopathy is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that occurs in many breeds of dog. The test being offered is based on the research done at the University of Missouri which identified mutations in the DM SOD1(A) gene. To date, the major mutation associated with this disease has been detected in 124 breeds, with a second mutation, SOD1(B) limited to the Bernese Mountain Dog.

AKC DNA Profile: Cheek swab test kit. Preordered test kits will be included in your registration packet and may be done during the Specialty and returned to the Health Clinic on May 6th or completed at home and mailed to Sharon Montville, 7516 Tudor Rd, Colorado Springs CO 80919, to be received on or before May 22, 2020. This is a firm date. All kits must be shipped to AKC as a batch in order to receive the Parent Club Specialty Discount. If your kit is not received by the deadline, it will be excluded without refund. PLEASE NOTE: These tests CAN NOT be used for the DNA requirement to enter the 2020 Specialty. Fee: $40

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Subsidized Antagene Histiocytic Sarcoma Risk Test: Offered for purebred BMDs in conjunction with the health clinics. Blood draw samples must be drawn at the clinic and will be shipped to France at BMDCA expense. Register for this test in the BMDCA online store at http://www.bmdca-store.com/Histiocytic-Sarcoma-Risk-Test-Clinic_c_81.html. You will receive advance ordering instructions and requirements for information on participating dogs. If you have questions, please contact Julie Jackson at rrbernese@gmail.com Berner-Garde Repository Clinic, Wednesday, May 6, 8:00am-4pm: Berner-Garde will be onsite for a BMD Repository clinic in Maryland! We would love to see you and your Berners there! Trained vet techs will be on hand to do simple blood draws throughout the day. No appointments are necessary and it's easy, quick, and FREE! It’s a wonderful way for you and your Berner to provide valuable information to aid future health research. Blood will be collected for both the Repository and also for a “special blood collection” for a targeted MSU health research project. MSU Repository staff will be onsite to assist with this special collection which will focus on collecting an additional blood sample for a complete blood count analysis along with height and weight measurements from Berners 2 years and older. As part of their research on Berner genetics, the MSU team has identified an interesting DNA variation in a gene that might impact height and weight as well as some blood parameters. Your participation will be a big help in uncovering if this is the case. All Berners will receive a special gift from Berner-Garde for each blood sample submitted. Because veterans are extra special and have a wealth of health information to share, Berner-Garde will provide an ADDITIONAL unique gift to each veteran Berner that provides a blood sample to the Repository. Berner-Garde Site Operators will be on hand throughout the week at the Berner-Garde booth to record updates in the database. Please do your part to further Berner-health research by participating in the BMD Repository Clinic and making updates to you and your dog’s information while in Maryland—do it "For the Love of a Berner!"

SSHOWHOW PPHOTOGRAPHERSHOTOGRAPHERS & V& VIDEOGRAPHERIDEOGRAPHER Official BMDCA Specialty Photographer: Classique Photography by Dawn Gabig, (660) 342-6555, DawnGabig@gmail.com The “Official BMDCA Specialty Photographer” will be the only photographer authorized by the 2020 National Specialty Show Committee and BMDCA to take and sell official specialty win photos featuring judges at the Specialty. Judge photos may be taken at off-site locations by Show Committee approved photographers in the event those judges are unavailable to be present at the Specialty. Other commercial photographers authorized to sell photos for Specialty Events must be approved by the Show Committee and will be required to sign a vendor agreement with the Show Committee for specified events and will only be authorized to shoot and make available for purchase candid (or action) photos and those judge photographs where the judge is unavailable to be present at the Specialty for photographs with the “Official BMDCA Specialty Photographer.” Candid Ringside & Performance Photographers: All candid and performance photographers must be approved by the Show Committee and will be required to sign a vendor agreement for specific events. Candid ringside and performance photographers approved at the time of publication are included in specific event descriptions. Videographer: ShowDogVideoPros, 2639 Pocolomas Ct, Las Cruces NM 88011, (207) 200-3837, showdogvideopros@gmail.com, www.showdogvideopros.com This show will be professionally video recorded and available for live streaming. No other commercial video recording, video

recording from a tripod or monopod mounted camera, or any video recording or streaming of large segments of the show will be permitted.

Submission of an entry form and/or physical presence on the show grounds shall constitute both implied and real consent for both the handler and their dog to be video recorded.

Individuals may record video of their own dog(s) using cell phones, tablets, or other handheld devices only. Individuals may post recorded videos of their own dog(s) to social media (Facebook, YouTube, etc.)

The professional video services and live streaming at this show are governed by an exclusive video contract with the Club. On Line streaming of show video to Facebook, YouTube, FaceTime, U-Stream, Live Stream or other comparable online

outlets is strictly forbidden! Violation of these show video policies may result in an Event or Bench Committee hearing. ShowDogVideoPros permits, and encourages, local/national news media coverage. The Video Company will allow professional news

media coverage (tripod mounted cameras, professional film crews, news reporters). All rights to video record and live stream or otherwise exploit this event and/or the persons or animals participating in it, including

the names, likenesses and biographical matter of dogs, owners, handlers, breeders and kennels participating in the event shall belong solely to the show giving Club and/or the American Kennel Club, Inc. No spectator, participant, owner, handler, breeder, or kennel shall make commercial use of any video recordings of any person or animal participating in this event without prior written approval from the Club. This event may not be broadcast to social media (e.g., Facebook Live, etc.) without prior written approval from the Club.

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GGROOMINGROOMING NOTE: Grooming and Crating is allowed in designated areas only.

Due to LIMITED GROOMING SPACES, sharing of grooming spaces is encouraged. Exhibitors may reserve a 10' x 8' grooming space for $100, which includes one electrical plug with 20 amps of power, for the entire show period. Paid reserved spaces will be outdoors in the tented area at the Delta Marriott Hunt Valley Inn. All spaces are on a first come, first served basis through Master Registration until capacity is reached. Exhibitors are encouraged to bring floor mats and a UL-listed heavy-duty exterior extension cord properly rated for their equipment amperage. Generators and electric heaters are prohibited. All extension cords and dryers are subject to inspection, and non-compliant equipment may be removed by show personnel. A limited number of reserved grooming van/box truck parking spaces will also be available for $75 for the entire show period on a first come, first served basis through Master Registration. No electricity will be provided for grooming van spaces. Vehicle length is limited to 24 feet, and no cab/truck trailer combos will be allowed. All set-ups will be supervised by the Grounds Committee as representatives of the BMDCA. The Club reserves the right to restrict the number of grooming tables and to rearrange grooming areas and set-ups as required by circumstances for the safety and convenience of all. This includes moving crates, tables, and other equipment. Exhibitors are expected to comply with all Club rules as laid out by the BMDCA. ADDITIONAL GROOMING, CRATING, AND SITE INFORMATION FOR EXHIBITORS AND ATTENDEES MOVE-IN: Begins Monday, May 4th at 3:00pm GROOMING SPACES MUST BE VACATED IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE COMPLETION OF ALL

CONFORMATION EVENTS ON SATURDAY, MAY 9th. The grooming area will be open daily from 6:00am (except for move-in day as indicated above) until

10:00pm, except for Saturday, May 9th. Electrical power will be provided in the grooming area only between the hours of 7:00am to 9:00pm. The tent will be closed from 10:00pm until 6:00am and will be patrolled. DOGS ARE NOT PERMITTED TO STAY OVERNIGHT IN THE GROOMING AREA.

The BMDCA and the show committee will not be responsible for theft or damage of items left in the grooming area. Participants are encouraged to use good judgment when leaving dogs, personal items, or equipment unattended.

Parties wishing to set up together should submit forms under the same Group Name. No additional crating may be reserved or saved. At time of move-in, exhibitors will be required to supply contact information, including hotel, room

number, and cell phone number. An area near the hotel will be provided with three bathing stations. Exhibitors and handlers will be held responsible for clean conditions in/around their assigned space. Absolutely no x-pens will be allowed in the grooming area except within the assigned grooming space. Bathing/Grooming is not allowed in any hotel room. Participants and visitors must abide by the posted signs on the show grounds; failure to do so will result in

a warning and possible ejection from the show site and/or event. There is NO parking allowed on the grass ANYWHERE at the host hotel/show site. Ringside chairs are NOT to be taken to the grooming area. Complete the grooming section of the Master Registration form to reserve your spot! For questions, contact the Grooming Chairs, Susan Morrill at crimsonharvestbmd@gmail.com or Holly Tonero at keevah13@gmail.com.

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WE HAVE ALL YOU NEED TO LOOK YOUR BEST IN HUNT VALLEY! Shop for official 2020 National Specialty logo merchandise now!

http://www.bmdca-store.com/2020-Ways-Means_c_61.html

 

BMDCA JBMDCA JUDGESUDGES EEDUCATIONDUCATION SSEMINAREMINAR & W& WORKSHOPORKSHOP Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, May 7-9, 2020, Deadline April 23, 2020, Fee $40 Late Registration Fee $45 Judges Education Seminar—Thursday, May 7 7:00am Judges Seminar in the Garden Room followed by Ringside Mentoring Lunch and beverages will be provided in the Garden Room during Judges lunch break. Hands-on Workshop will follow in Salon E & F upon completion of the day’s judging. Judges Education Ringside Mentoring—Friday, May 8 and Saturday, May 9 BMDCA members who meet the AKC requirements for breed application and plan to apply for AKC judge licensing within the next year may request to participate in Judges Education. Please contact the BMDCA Judges Education Committee Chair Deborah Wilkins at abbeyroadbmd@gmail.com or (612) 747-4418. Draft test mentoring available upon request.

SSHOWHOW SSUPERINTENDENTUPERINTENDENT & P& PREMIUMREMIUM LLISTIST Jim Rau Dog Shows, Ltd. will be serving as our main Show Superintendent:

Jim Rau Dog Shows, Ltd. Mailing Address: 235 South Second Avenue PO Box 6898 West Reading PA 19611 Reading PA 19610 Phone: (610) 376-1880 Fax: (610) 376-4939 Email: info@raudogshows.com Website: www.raudogshows.com

BMDCA members can look forward to receiving notification of the Premium List via Ecomm. Members who currently receive their BMDCA Bulletin via USPS will receive their Premium List in hard copy. Visit the BMDCA website at www.bmdca.org/specialty/2020 to access a link to the Premium List. You may contact Rau Dog Shows, Ltd. to request a printed copy of the Premium List by mail.

AATTENTIONTTENTION EEXHIBITORSXHIBITORS AKC DNA REQUIRED FOR ALL DOG SHOW ENTRIES The BMDCA requires each entrant to provide a valid AKC DNA Profile Number for the dog entered on the Official Entry Form at the time of entry. AKC DNA numbers are not required for Special Attractions such as parades. Failure to meet these requirements will render the dog ineligible to enter the event. This may result in the loss of all awards earned at the event, as well as subject the entrant to possible disciplinary action by the AKC and/or BMDCA, including but not limited to suspension from club privileges and entry of club events. All DNA numbers will be verified by the BMDCA within 30 days after the national Specialty. DNA kits can be obtained from the AKC Online Store at www.akc.org.

DON'T DELAY! STANDARD PROCESSING TIME IS 6-8 WEEKS AFTER RECEIPT! If it has been more than 8 weeks since the DNA sample was submitted to AKC and you have not received a DNA profile number AND need it for your 2020 Specialty entry, call AKC DNA Operations at (919) 816-3508 to obtain a preliminary DNA number (accepted in extenuating circumstances only). Please allow an appropriate amount of time for the AKC to recive your sample and call NO LATER THAN one week prior to close of entries. Be sure to mention "BMDCA National Specialty” to expedite your request.

WWAIVERAIVER OFOF RRIGHTSIGHTS——AANIMALSNIMALS ININ DDISTRESSISTRESS The Bernese Mountain Dog Club of America, Inc. reserves the right to remove any animal in distress from a parked vehicle or crate, and all persons attending these dog events hereby waive any claim for damages against the club for such removal. The Club regards the health, safety, and life of any dog on the show grounds to be paramount to other property or privacy rights. We will attempt to reach the responsible party but cannot guarantee contact will be made before action is taken.

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SSHOWHOW VVETERINARIANETERINARIAN Non-Emergencies Jacksonville Veterinary (Preferred Veterinarian), 14240 Jarrettsville Pike, Phoenix MD 21131, Phone (410) 666-1390 Approximately 6.7 miles from host hotel (12 minutes)

Hours: 8am-8pm M-F; 8am-3:30pm Saturday Directions: Turn right out of hotel main entrance onto Shawan Rd. Travel 1/4 mile and turn right on York Rd. Travel 1/4 mile and turn left onto Ashland Rd. Ashland Rd turns into Paper Mill Rd as you travel the 5.5 miles to Jarrettsville Pike. Turn right on Jarrettsville Pike. The veterinary office is on the right.

Hunt Valley Veterinary (Closest Vet to Host Hotel), 11206 York Rd, Cockeysville MD 21030, Phone (410) 527-0800 Approximately 1 mile from host hotel (3 minutes)

Hours: 7:30am-7:30pm M-F; 8am-4pm Saturday Directions: Exit hotel east turning right onto McCormick Rd. Turn left on Schilling Rd. Turn right onto York Rd. The veterinarian office is 1/4 mile on right.

Emergencies Pet ER Towson, 1209 Cromwell Bridge Rd, Towson MD 21286, Phone (410) 252-8387 Approximately 11.7 miles from host hotel (14 minutes)

Hours: Open 24 Hours Directions: Exit hotel on south side, turning left on Schilling Rd. Turn left onto McCormick Rd. Turn left onto Shawan Rd. Enter onto 83 South (there is an entrance ramp on the right before you pass under the highway, or on the left after you pass under the highway). Travel 6 miles and stay in the left lane to enter 695 West. Travel 4 miles to Cromwell Bridge Rd exit. At traffic light at end of exit ramp go straight and travel up the hill to the Pet ER.

HHERDINGERDING Sunday, May 3, Keepstone Farm, Berryville VA, 1 hour and 45 minutes from Host Hotel BMDCA Sponsored American Herding Breed Association, 2 Trials for Bernese Mountain Dogs Only Start your BMDCA 2020 National Specialty adventure in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley. Two tests and trials will allow two opportunities to earn titles. Novice Bernese can find out if they like and are able to work sheep during the Herding Capability Tests, earning an HCT. Experienced herding Berners have the opportunity to enter two herding trials in one day with civil sheep which are worked frequently. Classes offered at both tests/trials include: Herding Capability Test, Junior Herding Dog, and Herding Trial Arena Dog. Herding Ranch Dog A will be offered (am) and Herding Ranch Dog B offered (pm). Bernese Mountain Dogs MUST have DNA number to exhibit at these tests/trials. Pre-entries will be accepted until Wednesday, April 1, 2020: $45 per test/trail and $55 for Day-of entries (if space available). Test runs will be limited. Enter early! Visit www.ahba-herding.org for information on rules and class descriptions. For more information about the test/trials or to request a hard copy by mail contact Valerie Chase, Herding Chair, at vchase529@att.net. The premium list will be available on the BMDCA website. Candid photos for this event will be provided by Terri Hirsch. Trial Secretary: Clantyre Show Secretary Services, Rachael Toren, showsec@clantyre.net Judges: Dr. Carol Lundquist & Ms. Erin Ledbetter

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TTRACKINGRACKING Sunday, May 3, Fair Hill Natural Resource Management Area, Elkton MD, approximately 60-90 minutes from the specialty site. Please be advised that the tracking test site is approximately 15 minutes from the Management Area entrance. Spectators are welcome. Due to the remote location of this test, lunch will not be provided. Further details will be provided in the premium list. A combined TD/TDX Tracking Test will be held in Elkton, Maryland. The BMDCA is offering 6 TD and 2 TDX tracks. If all tracks do not fill, the AKC Regulations exchange rate of 2 TD equaling 1 TDX will be employed. Entries are open to all breeds with preference given to Bernese Mountain Dogs. The premium list will be available on the BMDCA website. For more information, or or to request a printed copy of the Tracking Premium List, contact Denise McClure, Tracking Secretary at edmundmcclure@comcast.net. Tracking entries will close on April 8. Judges: Mr. Jack Sappenfield II & Ms. Michelle Gillette Nearby accommodations include:

Red Roof Inn, 1119 S College Ave, Newark DE, Phone: (302) 368-8521 Motel 6, 223 Belle Hill Rd, Elkton MD, Phone: (410) 392-5020 LaQuinta Inn, 301 Belle Hill Rd, Elkton MD, Phone: (410) 620-9494

Tracking Test Veterinarian: VCA Newark Animal Hospital, 1360 Marrows Rd, Newark DE, Phone: (302) 737-8100

DDRAFTRAFT Monday, May 4, and Tuesday, May 5, Maryland Agricultural Resource Center, 1114 Shawan Rd, Cockeysville MD, 1 mile from Host Hotel “Tally Ho” Drafting we go! There will be three BMDCA Draft Tests offered at the 2020 National Specialty—two tests on May 4th and one test on May 5th. Each test will offer Novice, Brace Novice, Open, and Brace Open classes with a limit of 28 entries in each test. The tests are limited to Bernese Mountain Dogs only. Entrants will need a AKC DNA number, as well as a Berner-Garde Dog ID number on their entry form. Premium lists will be available on the BMDCA website. To request a hard copy by mail, contact Master Draft Secretary Gina Craig at ginadraftsecretary@gmail.com; she will be accepting entries for all tests. If you have questions about the tests, contact Susan VanOcker, Draft Test Chair, at susan.vanocker63@gmail.com. Box lunches will be available for purchase on the draft test entry form. Candid Photographer for Draft Tests: Terri Hirsch. **IMPORTANT** Our goal is to fill each test, while accommodating as many teams as possible. Every reasonable and fair effort will be made to ensure each team has one chance to compete before second or additional entries will be allowed. Team—means either a single dog entry or a brace entry. First entry—A team's first entry in a specific class Second entry—A team's second entry in the same class. A team may enter a specific class once per test. Test Preference—Entrants need to specify their choice of Test# for each entry, e.g. 1st choice Test #3, 2nd choice Test #1, etc. There are no guarantees that preferences will be accommodated. Entry Preference—Teams entering need to specify their choice of which day is their first entry preference, second entry preference, etc., on the entry form. There are no guarantees that preferences will be accommodated. Multiple Team entries—Teams may enter more than once; one team/multiple classes; or one team/multiple entries in the same class competing in. Multiple tests. Once a dog is drawn, that dog will not be considered for any additional entries until every reasonable and fair effort has been made for each dog to get into a test.

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Entry Preference—Subject to the above limitations for this Specialty test, untitled teams (in the class entered) have preference over titled teams. Titled teams have preference over advanced titled teams. Move-ups will be allowed. There will be a single equipment check for each test. Monday, May 4—Test #1 Judges: Ms. Christine Mann & Ms. Ruth Nielsen Secretary: Babs Winicur Monday, May 4—Test #2 Judges: Ms. Nancy Van Horne & Mr. Phil Atkinson Secretary: Gina Craig Tuesday, May 5—Test #3 Judges: Mr. Jim Maxwell & Ms. Julie Bacon Secretary: Gina Craig

OOBEDIENCEBEDIENCE & R& RALLYALLY OOBEDIENCEBEDIENCE All trials will be held in the Maryland Ballroom at the Host Hotel. An AKC DNA number is required for all entries. Rings will be fully matted. A limited amount of crating space will be available; no x-pens allowed. Obedience Trial Preferred/Optional/Non-Regular Classes, Tuesday, May 5 Judge: Mr. Mike Mooney Obedience Trial Regular Classes & Team Obedience, Thursday, May 7 Judges: Ms. Karen Wrey, Regular Obedience; Ms. Karen Wrey & Ms. Lisa Mitchell, Team Obedience Regular obedience classes offered include Novice, Open, and Utility. Preferred obedience classes offered include Novice, Open and Utility. Optional titling classes include Beginner Novice, Graduate Novice, and Graduate Open. Non-regular classes include Team, Brace, and Veterans. HIT will be offered for Preferred Classes on Tuesday. The Specialty Obedience HIT will be awarded from the regular classes results on Thursday. For questions, contact Ruth Nielsen, Obedience Chair, at rnielsen@nielsenlaw.com. Premium lists will be available on the BMDCA website, or from the Show Superintendent. Rally Obedience Trial, Friday, May 8 Judge: Ms. Karen Wrey Regular rally obedience classes offered include Novice, Intermediate, Advanced, Excellent, and Masters; the non-regular Pairs (two dogs) class will also be offered. High Triple Score and High Combined will be awarded in accordance with AKC Rally Obedience Rules and Regulations. For questions, contact Jennifer Donnelly, Rally Obedience Chair, at jennifer@blueribbondog.com. Premium lists will be available on the BMDCA website, or from the Show Superintendent.

AAGILITYGILITY Wednesday, May 6, Bella Vista Training Center, 730 Mt Airy Rd, Lewisberry PA, 1 hour from Host Hotel Join us on Wednesday for the BMDCA National Specialty Agility Trial! Trial will be held indoors on beautiful sprint turf in an air-conditioned venue, http://bvtrainingcenter.com/. Classes offered will be Standard, Jumpers with Weaves, FAST and T2B. Our judge will be Mr. Frank Gilmer, and the Trial Secretary is Patricia Mowery, trish@bvtrainingcenter.com. If you have any questions or would like to volunteer, contact Toby Erlichman, Agility Chair, at drtobs@gmail.com. The premium list will be available on the BMDCA website. To request a hard copy by mail, contact the Trial Secretary. Lunch will be available for order on the day of the trial. RV spots will be available on-site with a separate reservation and fee. Entrants will need an AKC DNA profile number on their entry form. Photos will be taken by Rich Knecht.

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CGC TCGC TESTINGESTING & T& TRICKRICK DDOGOG CCERTIFICATIONERTIFICATION Friday, May 8, Garden Room, 9:00am-4:00pm Canine Good Citizen™ (CGC): Responsible Dog Ownership means well-mannered dogs! The AKC Good Citizen testing program has become recognized as the “gold standard” for the term “well-mannered” as it relates to dog behavior. To encourage all Bernese Mountain Dogs to be well-mannered, we are offering CGC tests at the 2020 BMDCA National Specialty! Participation is on a first come, first served basis through Master Registration until the limit of 40 is reached. Please consult AKC test requirements for CGC at http://www.akc.org/dog-owners/training/canine-good-citizen/about/. This test is open to Bernese Mountain Dogs over 6 months of age. Please bring your dog’s AKC registration number and date of birth. Fee: $20 AKC Trick Dog: From the 1920s and 1940s when trick dogs such as Rin Tin Tin and Lassie won peoples’ hearts, trick dog training has become one of the most exciting new areas in dog training today. We are proud to be the first BMDCA National Specialty to offer this certification! Come have fun with your dog! Participation is on a first come, first served basis through Master Registration until the limit of 40 is reached. Please consult AKC test requirements for Trick Dog at https://www.akc.org/sports/trick-dog/. Fee: $20 Ms. Donna Wesemann will conduct CGC testing in the morning, followed by Trick Dog testing in the afternoon. Please indicate test time preference when you register. Confirmation of your estimated test time will be included in your registration packet. If you have questions or would like to volunteer to help, please contact Christina Garrett at smokeykeepbmd@hotmail.com.

BBESTEST SSEATSEATS ININ THETHE HHOUSEOUSE We all know that frustration and disappointment when we get up early in the morning and rush down to ringside to put our chair in a prime location to watch the dog show, only to find that all the best spots have already been taken and you are now relegated to sit in the second or third row, barely able to see the down and back. Well here is YOUR opportunity to win a chance to secure your spot ringside, not for just for one day, but for the majority of the show week (Wednesday through Saturday)! Tickets for this chance at the Best Seats In The House will be sold Sunday through Tuesday, next to the registration table. The winner will be drawn and announced at the beginning of the Veteran Sweepstakes finals during the Welcome Reception on Tuesday evening. The winner must be present to win. We will keep drawing until we have a winner! In addition to getting the best location to view the action in the ring, you will also literally win the Best Seats In The House, which is not one, but TWO, directors chairs decorated for this special occasion for you to use for the week—one for you and one for your best friend! Along with the chairs, you will also win a fun cooler on wheels filled with yummy treats and adult and non-adult beverages—enough to sustain you for the next four incredible specialty days! Don’t’ miss your chance to be in the Best Seats in the House! 

CCONFORMATIONONFORMATION EEVENTSVENTS Regular and Non-Regular Conformation, Sweepstakes, Futurity, Veteran Sweepstakes, and Junior Showmanship will be held indoors in the Hunt Valley Ballroom. See premium list for eligibility requirements. The Veterans Sweepstakes finals will be held in the Hunt Valley Ballroom on Tuesday evening in conjunction with our “Cakes and Cocktails” Welcome Reception. This night is to celebrate our wonderful veterans. Join us to sample the local renowned Crab Cakes and imbibe in our Specialty Cocktail at the available cash bar. The 2020 Specialty Committee is excited to offer the National Owner Handler Series (NOHS) at this event. This program was developed by the American Kennel Club to celebrate the dedication and enthusiasm of owner-handler exhibitors. Exhibitors must indicate at the time of conformation entry that they are eligible and want to compete in the NOHS. Selection for the NOHS Best of Breed, Best Puppy, Best Veteran, and Best Bred-by-Exhibitor will be held immediately following the regular judging of Best of Breed in the same ring. Additional information about the NOHS will be included in the premium list for those who are interested in participating in this program at the 2020 Specialty. Information can also be found at www.akc.org/ohs/index.cfm. Candid Conformation Ringside Photos: Chris Stefanac, chrisertec@aol.com, csphotoonline.com.

 

No personal chairs will be allowed in the Hunt Valley Ballroom, unless you win the “Best Seats in the House” contest! Ringside chairs will be supplied by the Host Hotel. We ask that attendees not attempt to “reserve” a chair for the run of the show, but instead find available seating as needed. We appreciate everyone’s cooperation to make this a great experience for everyone. 

VVERSATILITYERSATILITY SSHOWCASEHOWCASE Wednesday, May 6, Hunt Valley Ballroom, Finals During Top 20 Intermission This stand-alone conformation competition will showcase dogs and bitches that have received the BMDCA Versatility Award. Classes will be offered for Versatility/Versatility Excellent, Dogs/Bitches Under 7 Years and 7 Years and Over, with Best in Versatility chosen from the eight class winners. Classes will be judged on Wednesday afternoon, with final judging of the class winners during the Top 20 Intermission on Wednesday evening. Intact and altered dogs ARE eligible to compete. Since this showcase is a Special Attraction, dogs or bitches judged first in these classes will NOT be eligible for Best of Breed by virtue of having won these classes. See the premium list for eligibility requirements. Versatility Showcase entries will be submitted through Jim Rau Dog Shows, Ltd., our Show Superintendent.

TTOPOP TTWENTYWENTY GGALAALA TOASTING THE FUTURE! Join us for a FORMAL evening of beautiful dogs at the BMDCA’s eighth annual Top Twenty Gala, which will be held the evening of Wednesday, May 6th . This event will showcase the top conformation dogs from 2019. Entry is by invitation only and is sent to the top 20 Bernese Mountain Dogs in breed and all-breed points, as determined by AKC statistics from January 1 through December 31, 2019. Dogs will be prejudged by a three-judge panel the afternoon prior to the gala event. Each judge will evaluate the dogs on a predetermined point system, enumerating the criteria of our breed standard. The emphasis for judging is on the individual qualities of the dog and how closely he/she conforms to the breed standard. Points will be tabulated once the prejudging is completed, and the winner will be announced at the conclusion of the event. In addition, attendees will also have the opportunity to vote for the People’s Choice Award. The Top Twenty competition will culminate Wednesday evening in the main conformation ring. The event will be opened to the general public to view the final showcase of the Top Twenty dogs and presentation of awards to the top winners. This event will be both entertaining and exciting as the handlers present their dogs to music chosen by them to represent the unique personalities of their dogs. Formal evening wear is encouraged for participants and spectators to honor this year’s theme of Toasting the Future! Top Twenty Gala donations are also very welcome and may be made through Master Registration.

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2020 BERNER UNIVERSITY REGISTRATION – MAIL IN FORM If you are participating in Berner University, complete and print this form, then transfer the total amount due to

the Master Registration Form and submit the forms together. Please mark your choice of sessions in each time slot for Monday and Tuesday, and, if appropriate, whether

auditing or working. Questions? Problems? Contact Tracey Keith, Berner U Registrar, at berneruregistrations@earthlink.net for all Berner U communications.

Register early, space is limited for some workshops. If you are attending ONLY the OPEN TO EVERYONE sessions, there is no fee. Complete and print this form with the

appropriate session(s) marked to submit with the Master Registration. This will assure sufficient seating.

Day 9 – 11 AM Noon – 2 PM 3 – 5 PM 7 – 9 PM

MON

DAY

Canine Oral Care 101 Kirk Herrmann DVM 

Genetics of Histiocytic Sarcoma 

Jacquelyn Evans DVM

Herding 101 Buck Sykes  BREEDER

SYMPOSIUM Berner Cancer Research

Results Matthew Breen PhD CBiol FRSB

  OPEN TO

EVERYONE

Check box if you plan to attend.

Whelping 101 

Samantha Judge DVM & Sue Brightman 

Choosing A Sire Jessica Hekman DVM PhD 

BARC Update Amy Kessler

Draft Trial Preparation Barbie Wilczek

Advancements in OncologyCraig Clifford DVM MS DACIM

Kristin Kicenuik DVM Cassandra Wilcox DVM

Obedience Trial PreparationLisa Baldwin Limit 8 Working 

Auditing

Working

Please mark your choice of sessions in each time slot for Monday and Tuesday, and, if appropriate, whether auditing or working.

TUES

DAY

Genetics 101 Bert Klei PhD 

AKC BMDCA Breed StandardBMDCA Breed Mentor(s) 

Rescue 24/7Kathy Deyo

OPEN TO EVERYONE

Check box if you plan to attend.

Foundations of Dog SportsShannon Hall 

BLOAT!Kathy Berge DVM

End of Life Care, Loss, and Grief 

Mary-Ann Bowman PhD 

Integrative Veterinary Care 101 

Sara Fox Chapman DVM 

Freestyle 201: Twists, Turns & Tricks 

Marjorie Geiger Limit 15 Working

Auditing Working

Student Name Berner U Registration $50 $

Junior (Age 9-18) No Fee

-0-

Email

TOTAL DUE $

2020 SPECIALTY REGISTRATION – MAIL-IN FORM – Page 1TWO CONVENIENT WAYS TO REGISTER:

Register online at www.bmdca.org/specialty/2020 by Friday, March 20, 2020 OR Mail completed Registration Form with any additional forms for galleries, parade, or Berner University,

postmarked NO LATER THAN Friday, March 13, 2020Final deadline for refund requests for both mail-in and online registration is Wednesday, April 1, 2020. All requests must be made in

writing and received by this date, either by USPS mail or by email to bmdca.reg@gmail.com. Requests after this date will not be honored.

Please complete a separate form for each registrant.Check all that apply: BMDCA Member International Attendee Junior My 1st Specialty

Name

Kennel Name

If Junior, Parent Name

Address

City/St/Zip or City/Country/Postal

Phone Cell

Email Include cell phone in public attendance list? Yes No

General Items Quantity Cost @ Total

Name Tag & Welcome Bag -0- Processing Fee (applicable for all registrations) $5 Pre-Ordered Catalog (On-site will be $25.00) $22 Best of Breed “Made the Cut” Booklet (Catalog purchasers are eligible to order this booklet) $3

RV Parking Space (send in RV Additional Info Form, see specialty website) Arrival Date # Nights $25

Indicate size of RV, including any slideouts:

Reserved Grooming Quantity Cost @ Total

10’ x 8’ Space $100 Group Name Grooming Next To Reserved Grooming Van Parking (Maximum of 1, very limited number of spaces available) Cost @ Total

Reserved Grooming Van Parking (Vehicle length limit 24 feet, no cab/truck trailer combos, no electricity provided) $75

Receptions & Banquets (Submit a separate form for each registrant) Cost @ Total

Cakes & Cocktails Welcome Reception – Tuesday, May 5 $28 Health Auction Mashed Potato Martini Bar – Thursday, May 7 $25 Annual Meeting & Awards Banquet – Friday, May 8 (Buffet) $50 Awards Banquet – Limited Reserved Dinner Table (Seating 8, maximum of 1) $100

Judges’ Dinner – Saturday, May 9 Fish

Beef Vegetarian

Choose Entrée $50

Judges’ Dinner – Limited Reserved Dinner Table (Seating 8, maximum of 1) $100

International Guest Reception (Attendee from outside the USA) Need Mentor

Serve As Mentor Free

International Guest Reception (USA Attendee) Serve As Mentor $12

Veterans Parade & Titleholders Gallery (Submit a Registration Form for each dog and event, see pages 13-14) Quantity Cost @ Total

Veterans Parade – Thursday, May 7 $25 Titleholders Gallery $25

Page 1 Subtotal →

2020 SPECIALTY REGISTRATION – MAIL IN FORM – Page 2Rescue Gallery (Available only in the BMDCA online store at the link below)

Rescue Gallery – register at http://www.bmdca-store.com/Rescue_c_77.html

Draft Workshop for Beginners – Sunday, May 3 Working $25

Auditor$10 Total

Draft Workshop for Beginners (limited to 12 working teams; 12 active auditors)

CGC Testing & Trick Dog Certification – Friday, May 8 Quantity Cost @ Total

Canine Good Citizen (limited to 40 participants) $20

Time Preference for CGC (9am-12pm) AM

Trick Dog Certification (limited to 40 participants) $20

Time Preference for Trick Dog (1pm-4pm) PM Health Clinics – Wednesday, May 6 Quantity Cost @ Total

Cardiac Clinic – Evaluation/Auscultation $45

Time Preference for Cardiac Appointment(s) (8am-4pm) AM PM

Eye Clinic – Exam $40

Time Preference for Eye Appointment(s) (8am-4pm) AM PM

OFA Thyroid Testing $105

Time Preference for Thyroid Test Appointment(s) (8am-4pm) AM PM Health & DNA Kits (Kits you order will be included in your registration packet.) Quantity Cost @ Total

GenSol DNA Tests for Type I Von Willebrand’s Disease, Degenerative Myelopathy (DM), or Degenerative Myelopathy (SOD1B) (Gen Sol cheek swab kits never expire and can be used for any test)

$25

AKC DNA Test/Profile Kit $40 Subsidized Antagene Histiocytic Sarcoma Risk Test (Available only in the BMDCA online store at the link below)

Register at http://www.bmdca-store.com/Histiocytic-Sarcoma-Risk-Test-Clinic_c_81.html Berner University (Submit a Berner University Registration Form if you are participating in Berner U, attending sessions that are open to everyone with no fee, or are not attending and wish to access Berner U materials through Dropbox.)

Total Due on attached completed Berner University Registration Form Donations (Donors will be acknowledged in the official show catalog.)

Join the Triple Crown Club – see page 8 for details!

DONATION: General Specialty

DONATION: Raffle

DONATION: Trophy Fund

DONATION: Top Twenty

Page 1 Subtotal →

G R A N D T O T A L

Register online at www.bmdca.org/specialty/2020 by Friday, March 20, 2020OR Mail completed Registration Form with any additional forms for galleries, parade, or Berner University,

postmarked NO LATER THAN Friday, March 13, 2020 to: BMDCA Registration, 10170 Irish Rd, Goodrich MI 48438

All checks and money orders must be in U.S. dollars, payable to BMDCA 2020.