On November 12th, 2005 the CGSMDC hosted its second official GSMDCA Pack Dog Hike of the year in Portland, Oregon - along the Forest Park Trail. Four teams participated for a leg; Andy Potter and Trout Creek's Jet Black "Jet," Holly Beck and Painted Mtn Gallant Man "Dagen," Matt Wright and Trout Creek's Cardiff "Aggie," and Laura Wright and Oryan's Just Wright "Rhys". The hike followed a five mile portion of the Wildwood trail which passes through the Hoyt arboretum in Portland. The hike proceeded through a woodland forest with stands of native fir and cedar along with maple, cherry, and magnolia trees. A lot of the trees were labeled, which made the hike very interesting.

The CGSMDC then hosted AHBA HCT and JHD tests on November 13th, in Battleground, WA. The day was a great success with a good turnout and a whopping seventeen titles awarded! Earning the HCT (Herding Capability Tested) title were Kiefer, Jet, Annie (Appenzeller), Rhea, Razz, Akela, Oliver, Willow, Aragorn, Kavan, Takoda, Tiki, and Aggie. Earning the JHD (Junior Herding Dog) title were Kiefer, Gimmie, Seadar, and Kinser. We are encouraging our local Swissy owners to get out and try the AKC tested levels this Spring, so that the AKC can see what great herding dogs Swissies can be!

On December 3rd, 2005, the CGSMDC held its second annual Christmas Party in Bothell, Washington. A good many Swissies and their owners attended and had a blast! One of the highlights was the "Sock Relay Race," in which teams raced in tag team fashion to put socks on their dogs feet! To the right see a photo of Swissies enjoying "Musical Hula Hoops" and a group shot at the party. Santa was on hand for photos, a yummy lunch was provided, and a great time was had by all.

Our Club is also in the process of compiling the 2006 edition of the Award Winning National Greater Swiss Mountain Dog Stud Directory. The Directory presents both information on available GSMD Studs and provides educational material on the breeding of Swissies. We still have a handful of complete 2004 Editions, which may be purchased for 55.00 plus shipping. The 2006 Update will be made available to those owning the 2004 version.

Our website is located at www.cascadeswissyclub.com and is the way to stay apprised of CGSMDC happenings, to place orders for the Stud Directory, and for Membership information. We have a lot of great events planned for 2006, so check back often!