Gleanntan Kennels - 2008
The Year in Review

December 27, 2008 - Christmas

We hope that you had a most enjoyable Christmas this year and we wish you all the best in 2009. Maida and I traveled to Rhode Island for the holiday. A few of the Skyes also made the trip, including Tony (Ch. Finnsky Gladiator), Bea (Ch. Gleanntan Givemebusybee!) and two of the pups, Gus (Gleanntan Wonderful Wizard Of Oz) and Elphie (Gleanntan Defying Gravity). Our time spent with family and friends was great fun and the pups, Gus and Elphie, had numerous opportunities for socialization. Needless to say, they were a big hit with our two nieces. We even managed a brief trip to Beavertail on the island of Jamestown. This picturesque peninsula is at the southern tip of Jamestown, essentially dividing the West Passage and the Easy Passage of Narragansett Bay. Below are a few photos of the Beavertail visit, including a "stock" aerial photo to give you a sense of where we were. There is also a photo of our two nieces holding Gus and Elphie.

Left: Beavertail from the air in the summer Right: Maida with Gus and her camera. A photo shoot awaits!

December 19, 2008 - New Tony x Glinda puppy photos - 13 weeks of age

Check out Tony and Glinda's puppies page for the latest photos of the four pups.

Gleanntan Wonderful Wizard Of Oz - "Gus"
13 weeks of age - December 19, 2008
Owned by Gleanntan Kennels, Reg.

December 14, 2008 - Back-to-back Group 3 placements for Tony

Maida and I were at the Lehigh Valley Kennel Club and the Delaware Water Gap Kennel Club shows this past weekend. The shows are held on the campus of Lehigh University and they are very well run by the show-giving clubs. The club members are nice folks who are committed to putting on the best shows possible. With the holiday season upon us, there is always a spirit of fellowship among the exhibitors. One of the traditions of the shows is that many exhibitors bring homemade cookies.

We had two of our Skyes entered - Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony" entered in Best of Breed and his daughter Gleanntan Glorious Legacy - "Mackenzie" (x Ch. Gleanntan Givemebusybee!) entered in the Bred by Exhibitor bitch class. Mackenzie showed nicely both days. Her sire took Best of Breed on Saturday under judge Mrs. Karen C. Wilson and on Sunday under judge Mrs. Barbara Dempsey Alderman.

This busy show weekend offered a few choices for competition in Cleveland, Ohio and at the AKC Eukanuba Invitational in Long Beach, California. Even with these two large shows drawing big entries, the competition in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania was quite strong in the groups. In the terrier group, there were a number of #1 ranked dogs and Montgomery Best of Breed winners. As always, the end-of-year competition in the groups intensifies.

We were delighted with Tony's nice showing in the group each day. On Saturday, he earned a Group 3 under judge Mr. Norman L. Patton and on Sunday, he earned another Group 3 under judge Mrs. Karen C. Wilson.

December 7, 2008 - Winston-Salem Shows

Maida and I were at the two Forsyth Kennel Club shows in Winston-Salem, North Carolina this past weekend. We had an enjoyable couple of days with our friends Joe and Ginger Lindsey and Gina Lindsey.

There were four Skyes entered both days. In the Bred by Exhibitor bitch class, there was Gleanntan Glorious Legacy - "Mackenzie" and a 3.5 year old bitch from North Carolina. In the Open bitch class was Gleanntan Grand Duchess - "Sadie" owned and shown by Gina Lindsey. The single special was our Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony".

On Saturday, under judge Mrs. Glenda P. Dawkins, Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony" took Best of Breed and then went on to a Terrier Group 3. Tony's daughter (out of Ch. Gleanntan Givemebusybee!), Gleanntan Glorious Legacy - "Mackenzie" took Winners Bitch/Best of Opposite Sex.

On Sunday, under judge Mr. Dennis J. Kniola, Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony" took Best of Breed. Tony's daughter, Gleanntan Glorious Legacy - "Mackenzie" again took Winners Bitch/Best of Opposite Sex.

In just six shows, Mackenzie has earned Winners Bitch four times for a 3-point major and a total of 9 points towards her championship.

Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony"
Group 3
Forsyth Kennel Club
Saturday, December 6, 2008

December 1, 2008 - Puppy Socialization Club

The weekend following the Thanksgiving holiday found Maida and I at home with a break from the shows. We had a most enjoyable visit from our friends Susan, Nate, Isaac and Mackenzie. Since Glinda's pups were born in September, Isaac and Mackenzie have been looking forward to visiting. Susan, Nate, Isaac and Mackenzie took turns holding each of the four pups and the pups reveled in the extra attention. The pups also enjoyed playing with their new toys. Isaac and Mackenzie created a list of about 60 potential names for the pups. Here are a few photos from the visit.

A very tired puppy after the visit!

November 24, 2008 - Kennel Club of Philadelphia - The National Dog Show

Maida and I were at the Kennel Club of Philadelphia shows this past weekend. This year, the show was held at the huge Greater Reading Expo Center. The Saturday show is also know as The National Dog Show which is dubbed as the nation's most widely viewed dog show. Broadcast on Thanksgiving Day, immediately following the Macy's Parade, NBC states that this dog show reaches 20 million viewers.

Maida and I entered our Special, Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony" who we have been actively showing this year. I had considered entering one or more of Tony's offspring, most notably his beautiful daughter, Gleanntan Glorious Legacy - "Mackenzie". But, ultimately we decided to limit our entry to Tony to focus on him, particularly since this was a benched show at a site we were not familiar with.

Needless to say, the National Dog Show has become an outstanding public relations event for purebred dogs. The Reading newspaper stated that the number of spectators on Saturday exceeded 5,000! Many of the people who visited our area indicated that they have watched various dog shows on TV but this was their first show in person.

On Saturday, the terrier group was the first group at 1 p.m. Commentator, Wayne Cavanaugh, described each breed and, in describing the Skye, he finished by saying, "They are twice as long as they are tall. Check it out!" Well sure enough, after the group judging, we were back at the benching area and quite a number of people visited our setup. Many observed Tony and said, "This is the dog that is twice as long as it is tall." One couple and their young children came to our setup and commented on how much they loved seeing the Skye gaiting with his long, flowing coat. They were completely enthralled by the breed and said that they had to come "backstage" and meet Tony.

For about three hours after the group judging was over, Tony was "available" to meet new people and build goodwill for the breed. Tony very politely sat on the grooming table and gave gentle kisses to people of all ages. At one point, a group of children came up to the table and standing face-to-face with Tony on the table, one by one received kisses. Waiting patiently behind the kids was an older woman who was greatly amused by what she saw. Smiling from ear to ear, as the kids moved on she stepped up for her kiss. Tony was only too happy to oblige!

November 24, 2008 - Farewell Ch. Gleanntan Gee Whiz - "Julie"

Last week, another one of Donna's beloved Skye girls joined her in Heaven with the passing of Ch. Gleanntan Gee Whiz - "Julie". Julie was owned and much loved by Ernie and Jan Kowalec of Calgary, Alberta, Canada. Julie was the dam of six champions under the Gleanntan prefix and she was the littermate to Ch. Gleanntan Gee Whillikers - "Michael". Julie made many friends for the breed in Calgary with her bright and happy personality.

November 17, 2008 - New photo of Tony

Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony"
Group 1
Furniture City Kennel Club
Sunday, November 9, 2008
Judge: Mrs. Dawn Vick Hansen

November 15, 2008 - Weekend at home

Maida and I are "resting" at home this weekend after four weekends in a row of shows. It certainly is fun to be able to spend more time with Glinda and her pups - now 7 weeks old. I have added a few new photos to the Puppy Page and including the first stacked photos of the pups.

"Pink Girl"

We recently were saddened to learn that Norwegian Elkhound breeder/exhibitors, Skip and Karen Weir, were tragically killed in an automobile accident in Nebraska while driving home to Canton, Ohio. They were returning home from shows in Northern California. Skip and Karen were close friends of Roxan Rohrich and we got to know them through Roxan. Skip and Karen were wonderful dog people and we always enjoying setting up with them at shows.

November 9, 2008 - Tony earns a Group 1 in Greensboro, NC

Maida and I were in Greensboro, North Carolina this past weekend for the Furniture City Kennel Club shows. We had a fun time visiting with our friends, Joe and Ginger Lindsey, their daughter Gina Lindsey, and Shirley Deasy.

There were four Skyes entered both days. In the Bred by Exhibitor bitch class, there was Gleanntan Glorious Legacy - "Mackenzie" and a pretty bitch from North Carolina. In the Open bitch class was Gleanntan Grand Duchess - "Sadie" owned and shown by Gina Lindsey.

On Saturday, under judge Richard William Powell, Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony" took Best of Breed and his daughter, Gleanntan Glorious Legacy - "Mackenzie" took Reserve Winners Bitch. In the terrier group, Tony made the cut.

On Sunday, under judge Dawn Vick Hansen, Gleanntan Glorious Legacy - "Mackenzie" took Winners Bitch from the Bred by Exhibitor class and she was Best of Opposite Sex. In just four shows, Mackenzie has earned a major and a total of 5 points. We could not be happier with how she has matured.

Mackenzie's sire, Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony" took Best of Breed and he went on to a Group 1. We were delighted with Tony's showing in a very nice lineup of terriers. The Best in Show ring was quite a thrill with a number of multiple Best in Show winners in the lineup.

 The Best in Show lineup: Briard, Alaskan Malamute, Standard Poodle, English Setter,
Basenji, Skye Terrier and Pekingese under judge Richard William Powell.
Best went to the Poodle.

Gleanntan Glorious Legacy - "Mackenzie" on the move

Gleanntan Glorious Legacy - "Mackenzie"

Gleanntan Gingersnap - "Cookie"
(Ch. Finnsky Gladiator x Ch. Gleanntan Givemebusybee!)
age 18 months
Owned by Joe and Ginger Lindsey

Gleanntan Grand Duchess - "Sadie"
(Ch. Finnsky Gladiator x Ch. Gleanntan Givemebusybee!)
age 18 months
Owned by Gina Lindsey

November 2, 2008

Maida and I were at the Back Mountain Kennel Club shows this past weekend, driving back and forth each day. We had Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony" entered as well as his son, Gleanntan Comeflywithme! - "Mick". These shows are another favorite of the fall season, in part, because of the pretty drive to the Bloomsburg Fairgrounds. Much of the route follows the picturesque Susquehanna River which is always scenic, even more so with the fall foliage. As we approach the end of the year, the intensity in the groups is increasing and those four placements are becoming even more coveted. These relatively small 800 dog shows had a deep field of high quality terriers in the group. I was pleased with how Tony showed in the group both days and he represented the breed well.

Below is a new photo of Gleanntan Comeflywithme! - "Mick".

Gleanntan Comeflywithme! - "Mick"
(Ch. Finnsky Gladiator x Ch. Gleanntan Givemebusybee!)
Winners Dog - Middleburg Kennel Club - October 26, 2008
Judge: Mr. D. Roy Holloway

October 29, 2008 - More Montgomery Photos

I am continuing to review the hundreds of wonderful photos received on CDs from our friend Susan Etter. The photos below were taken by Susan's nephew, Isaac, and niece, Mackenzie. I will share them on this page and then eventually move them to their own dedicated page.

Ch. Gleanntan Givemebusybee - "Bea" - age 4 years
with Travis S. Wright - Montgomery County KC - October 5, 2008

Ch. Gleanntan Givemebusybee - "Bea" and Travis in the lineup
Montgomery County KC - Skye Terrier Club of America National Specialty

Gleanntan Gale's Grace - 18 months of age
with owner Kate Kozeliski - Montgomery County KC - October 5, 2008

Gleanntan Gale's Grace - "Bailey"

October 27, 2008 - Middleburg KC Weekend - New Champion Gleanntan Gaelforce - "Cooper"

Maida and I were at the Middleburg Kennel Club shows this past weekend in Leesburg, Virginia, driving back and forth each day. Also entered this weekend were Travis Wright and "Cooper" and Kate Kozeliski and "Bailey". It was a fun weekend of visiting with friends and celebrating nice successes for our Skyes.

The weather on Saturday was quite a challenge for one of the final outdoor shows of the season. Heavy rain, wind and an occasional rumble of thunder preceded our time in the ring and resumed again after the judging. Thankfully, during the Skye judging, the rain lightened just a bit.

The Skye entry on Saturday was 2-4-1-0 and the judge was Mrs. Helen Lee James. In dogs, Winners Dog was awarded to Gleanntan Gaelforce - "Cooper" owned and handled by Travis S. Wright. Reserve Winners Dog went to Gleanntan Comeflywithme! - "Mick" owned by Lynn and Gary Wolf and shown from the Bred by Exhibitor class by Michael Pesare.

There was an entry of four bitches. Two of the four were littermates Gleanntan Gale's Grace - "Bailey" shown in the Open class by owner Kate Kozeliski and Gleanntan Glorious Legacy - "Mackenzie" making her ring debut in the Bred by Exhibitor class. The other two bitches were very pretty, mature entries. Winners Bitch for a 3-point major from the Bred by Exhibitor class went to Gleanntan Glorious Legacy "Mackenzie". Mackenzie also took Best of Opposite Sex to her sire.

Best of Breed went to our special, Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony" - bred by Thea and Rolf Dahlbom, Kennel Finnsky, owned by Gleanntan Kennels, Reg. and owner/handled by Michael Pesare. Also, Best of Winners was awarded to Gleanntan Gaelforce - "Cooper" giving him his final major and points needed for his AKC Championship. See Cooper's page.

In the group competition, Tony showed beautifully and earned a Group 4. Group 1 went to the Montgomery County KC-winning Sealy and Group 3 went to the #1 Kerry in the U.S.

As challenging as the weather was on Saturday, it was picture perfect on Sunday with bright sunshine, temps in the 60s, low humidity and no wind. The entry (3-4-1-0) was about the same as Saturday with the addition of one class dog not of our breeding and with Cooper absent. The judge was Mr. D. Roy Holloway.

Winners Dog from the Bred by Exhibitor class was Gleanntan Comeflywithme! - "Mick" owned by Lynn and Gary Wolf and Gleanntan and owner/handled by Michael Pesare. Reserve Winners Bitch went to Gleanntan Glorious Legacy - "Mackenzie" also from the Bred by class, breeder/owner handled by Michael Pesare.

Best of Breed was Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony". In a competitive terrier group, Tony was a happy showman and he took a Group 3 - Group 1 going to the Sealy and Group 2 going to the #1 Airedale in the U.S.

Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony"
Group 3
Middleburg Kennel Club
Sunday, October 26, 2008
Judge: Mr. D. Roy Holloway

Tony moving out in the group - Sunday, October 26, 2008
Photo credit: Susan E. Etter

A Fun Family Photo
L to R: New Ch. Gleanntan Gaelforce - "Cooper" with Travis; Gleanntan Gale's Grace
with Kate; and Gleanntan Glorious Legacy - "Mackenzie" with Michael
Photo by Maida Connor

Ch. Gleanntan Gaelforce - "Cooper"
(Ch. Finnsky Gladiator x Ch. Gleanntan Givemebusybee!)
Photo credit: Susan E. Etter

Gleanntan Glorious Legacy - "Mackenzie"
(Ch. Finnsky Gladiator x Ch. Gleanntan Givemebusybee!)
Photo credit: Susan E. Etter

October 20, 2008 - Upper Potomac Valley KC

Maida and I were at the Upper Potomac Valley Kennel Club shows this past weekend. We have been coming to these shows just about every year since 1997 and always enjoy the beautiful drive across the state of Maryland. By this time of the year, the foliage is approaching peak color.

We also have fond memories of special wins here with beloved Skyes who are no longer with us. At these shows in 1999, I showed 22-month old Gleanntan Greatxplorer - "Peter" (AM, CAN, INT, FIN, DK, EST CH WW-96 ESTW-95 Mariquita Flashxclusive x Ch. Gleanntan Great Day O'Pataway) in his very first shows. Peter had breed type that was breathtaking and it was a pleasure to work with him. On one of the days that weekend, Peter took Best of Breed from the classes and went on to a Group 2 under respected judge Steve Shaw, who has since passed away. In 2000, our bitch, Am. & Finnish Ch. Skyelight Afrodite - "Mindy" (INT, FIN, DK CH EUW-93 Glenbrittle Heights' Luxury Liner x INT, FIN, DK, EST CH ESTW-93 Finnsky Madonna) won the terrier group as a veteran. In 2002, our beloved "Emily" - Ch. Gleanntan Grandxpose, who was the littermate to Greatxplorer, won the terrier group at this show.

This year, the entry was small, consisting of Gleanntan Comeflywithme! - "Mick" and his sire, Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony". Both dogs showed nicely and Tony represented the breed well in the group each day. We also had plenty of opportunities to practice with "Mick" and his littermate Gleanntan Glorious Legacy - "Mackenzie" in the spacious building. We also enjoyed watching judging in quite a few breeds.

October 18, 2008 - More Photos from Montgomery Weekend

Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony"
Award of Merit
Skye Terrier Club of America National Specialty
Montgomery County Kennel Club
Sunday, October 5, 2008
Judge: Mrs. Pat Trotter

Ch. Gleanntan Givemebusybee - "Bea"
(Ch. Gleanntan Going For It x Ch. Gleanntan Grandxpose)
Award of Merit
Skye Terrier Club of America National Specialty
Montgomery County Kennel Club
Sunday, October 5, 2008
Handled by Travis Wright
Judge: Mrs. Pat Trotter

Gleanntan Gale's Grace - "Bailey"
Winners Bitch/Best of Winners (4 point major)
Devon Dog Show Association
Skye Terrier Club of America National Specialty Weekend
Saturday, October 4, 2008
Owned and handled by Kate Kozeliski
Judge: Mrs. Sue Weiss

October 15, 2008 - Shuffles and Friends

Last evening, I received I wonderful update on one of our puppies, Shuffles (Ch. Finnsky Gladiator x Ch. Gleanntan Givemebusybee!), who is owned and adored by Frank and Holly Basta. Frank and Holly shared some insight into Shuffles' life: "Shuffles is a wonderful dog, best we've ever had. She is of course spoiled and rules the house. Our daughter Kelsey was just here with her big Lab. The dog is >3 times Shuffles size, who is 25 pounds, but that Lab knew who was boss, Skyes rule. She has the best personality. Each night when I come home from work she greets me at the top of the stairs, gives me some kisses, and then runs figure eights between the living room and the dining room. Each night she hops up in my lap and watches TV with me for a while."

Frank and Holly also sent a photo of Shuffles with their nine adorable grandchildren - a photo that is sure to put a smile on your face. To answer the question, "Are Skyes good with children?".....

October 15, 2008

Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony"
Award of Merit
Hatboro Dog Club II
Friday, October 3, 2008
Judge: Dr. H. Scott Kellogg

October 12, 2008 - New page for Tony x Glinda pups

A new page has been created for Tony and Glinda's pups. This page will be periodically updated with new photos to track the growth of the pups. As the pups approach three weeks of age, their eyes are now open and they are getting more active. We are enjoying them! See the page and new photos here.

October 8, 2008

Just before the Montgomery Weekend, Maida and Boz - Ch. Gleanntan Gottalookatme attended a picnic for all of the therapy animals at the Ronald McDonald House in Hershey, Pennsylvania.

October 7, 2008

Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony" giving kisses

Tony and Bea competed at the Skye Terrier National Specialty on Sunday and, on Monday evening,
they were back at their other job bringing smiles to students at Gettysburg College. Tony,
Bea, Boz and Mackenzie enjoyed their visit - as you can see, it was well past sunset
before they left.

First Place - Stud Dog and Brood Bitch Classes
Skye Terrier Club of America National Specialty - October 5, 2008
(also both the stud dog and the brood bitch earned two of the three Awards of Merit on this day)

L to R: Ch. Finnsky Gladiator and Michael; Ch. Gleanntan Givemebusybee! and Maida;
and two of their get Gleanntan Gaelforce and Travis Wright;
and Gleanntan Gale's Grace and Kate Kozeliski.

Photo by: Susan E. Etter

Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony"
Award of Merit
Skye Terrier Club of America National Specialty
Montgomery County Kennel Club - Sunday, October 5, 2008
Judge: Mrs. Pat Trotter

Tony and Michael after the ring

Ch. Gleanntan Givemebusybee! - "Bea"
on the move with Travis S. Wright
Best of Opposite Sex - Hatboro Dog Club I - October 2, 2008
Award of Merit - STCA National Specialty - MCKC - October 5, 2008

Ch. Gleanntan Givemebusybee! - "Bea" and Travis S. Wright - October 5, 2008

Bea completed her AKC Championship at the Hatboro show in October, 2005
at 13 months of age. She earned Winners Bitch from the Bred by Exhibitor
class for a 5-point major. In 2008, she returned to Montgomery with two of
her get sired by Ch. Finnsky Gladiator. She had not been in the show ring for
over two years.

Ch. Gleanntan Givemebusybee! - "Bea"
beautifully handled by Travis S. Wright
at the STCA National Specialty - Montgomery County KC

Gleanntan Gaelforce - "Cooper"
(Ch. Finnsky Gladiator x Ch. Gleanntan Givemebusybee!)
with owner and handler Travis S. Wright

Gleanntan Gaelforce - "Cooper"
(Ch. Finnsky Gladiator x Ch. Gleanntan Givemebusybee!)
Photo by: Susan E. Etter

Gleanntan Gale's Grace - "Bailey"
(Ch. Finnsky Gladiator x Ch. Gleanntan Givemebusybee!)
with owner and handler Ms. Kate Kozeliski

Winners Bitch & Best of Winners (4-point major) - Devon Dog Show Association

Bailey is Kate's first Skye and first show dog. They have been participating in the
sport of dogs for just a year. We are very proud of Kate and Bailey!
 

October 6, 2008 - Montgomery!

We have just returned from the Montgomery County Kennel Club - Skye Terrier Club of America National Specialty weekend. The four shows commenced on Thursday with the Hatboro Dog Club show, followed by another day of a Hatboro show, the Devon Dog Show Association show and culminating with the Montgomery County Kennel Club Terrier Show which is also the STCA Specialty.

Best of Breed all four days went to the same dog - a very handsome dog from Finland who I first admired when he was here for our Specialty in 2005. I have followed this dog's career in Finland and enjoyed the opportunity to see him as a fully mature adult. Ch. Of Skyeline Captain Hook (Ch. Finnsky Xcalibur x Ch. Of Skyeline Abracadabra) also took group placements three of the four days, including an outstanding Group 3 at Montgomery.

I am happy to report that our Finnish import, Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony", had a strong showing. Additionally, our bitch Ch. Gleanntan Givemebusybee! - "Bea" returned to the ring after a two plus year hiatus and she also had a strong showing. Two of Tony and Bea's get were also entered, Gleanntan Gaelforce - "Cooper" owned and handled by Travis Wright and Gleanntan Gale's Grace - "Bailey" owned and handled by Kate Kozeliski.

Here is an overview of the awards earned by Tony, Bea and Bailey:

Thursday, October  2 - Hatboro Dog Club I
Judge: Mr. Robert E. Hutton
Entry: 7-10 (5-2) and 1 Veteran Dog

Award of Merit (the single AOM awarded on the day) - Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - bred by Thea and Rolf Dahlbom, Kennel Finnsky
Best of Opposite Sex - Ch. Gleanntan Givemebusybee! - handled beautifully by Travis S. Wright

Friday, October 3 - Hatboro Dog Club II
Judge: Mr. H. Scott Kellogg
Entry: 9-9 (5-2) and 1 Veteran Dog

Award of Merit (2nd of 3 AOM awards) - Ch. Finnsky Gladiator

Saturday, October 4 - Devon Dog Show Association
Judge: Mrs. Sue Weiss
Entry: 9-9 (7-3)

Winners Bitch & Best of Winners (4 point major) - Gleanntan Gale's Grace

We are very proud of Bailey's owner and handler Kate Kozeliski. Bailey is Kate's first Skye Terrier and her first show dog. They only started showing less than one year ago.

Sunday, October 5 - Montgomery - Skye Terrier Club of America National Specialty
Judge: Mrs. Patricia V. Trotter
Entry: 10-12 (10-3) and 7

Award of Merit (2nd of 3 AOM awards) - Ch. Finnsky Gladiator
Award of Merit (3rd of 3 AOM awards) - Ch. Gleanntan Givemebusybee! - handled by Travis Wright

The Awards of Merit at a national specialty are highly coveted and we are delighted that judge Trotter presented two of the three awards to Tony and Bea, particularly given the fact that there was an entry of 42 Skyes, including 13 Specials.

September 27, 2008

For this final weekend of shows before the big Montgomery County KC weekend, Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony" was entered in the Warrenton KC and Old Dominion KC shows. Three of Tony's offspring (out of Ch. Gleanntan Givemebusybee!) were also entered - Gleanntan Gaelforce - "Cooper" owned and shown by Travis Wright; Gleanntan Gale's Grace - "Bailey" owned and shown by Kate Kozeliski; and Gleanntan Comeflywithme! - "Mick" owned by Lynn and Gary Wolf and very nicely shown by Kate Kozeliski.

The total entry of Skyes on Saturday was 3-1-1-1. Tony took Best of Breed under judge Lydia C. Hutchinson. In the terrier group under judge Elaine Mathis, Tony was one of six to make the cut but he did not place on this day. In the classes, Cooper was Reserve Winners Dog and Bailey was Winners Bitch/Best of Winners.

September 25, 2008 - Puppies

We are happy to share that "Glinda" - Ch. Gleanntan Glindathegoodwitch had four puppies today - 1 boy and 3 girls. Proud father is Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony". The four pups were born in less than two hours and Glinda is being a gentle, attentive mother. We can't help but be reminded of Glinda's wonderful mother, "Emily" - Ch. Gleanntan Grandxpose who gave birth to Glinda in August, 2004 in the same whelping box and in the same room where Glinda's litter was born today. The cycle of life continues.

September 23, 2008 - Gettysburg College's "Dog Days" - Encore

Last evening Maida and I fulfilled our promise to a group of students who requested we return one week after the official completion of Dog Days. In addition to the Dog Days regulars Boz, Bea and Mackenzie, this week we also brought Tony (Ch. Finnsky Gladiator). Tony was a big hit with the group of about 10 students. He loved the attention and tummy rubs. He also responded to greetings with the enthusiastic kisses that are typical of his "large" personality. One student delighted in giving Tony different hair styles, moving his heavy head coat off one eye and then the other eye. It was a fun outing for the Skyes.

September 20, 2008

Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony"
Group 3
Lehigh Valley Kennel Club
September 13, 2008
Judge: Mrs. Dorothy Taylor

September 19, 2008 - Gettysburg College's "Dog Days"

Last evening was the final day of the three weeks "Dog Days" at Gettysburg College. What fun Maida and I and the Skyes have had during these twice weekly sessions. After the first session, we soon learned that it was advantageous to sit on the ground with Boz, Bea and Mackenzie and allow the students to come up and sit with the Skyes. Before long, each time we visited, a regular group of students would form a circle around the Skyes. Boz, Bea and Mackenzie alternated between visiting with each student in the circle, and lying down to have their tummies rubbed. One of the students took great pride in remembering their names and called out to her friends as they walked across the campus, "Hey, <friend's name>, you have to come over here to meet these neat dogs! This is Boz and this is Bea and this is her daughter Mackenzie."

One of the students wrote Maida a lovely note after last evening's session: "Hi Maida, It's me, <student's name>, one of the many fans of your Skye Terriers. Thank you so much for bringing them to all of the Dog Days and staying well past all the other owners to hang out with all of us. It's been so much fun and I really appreciate you taking all that time to spend with us. It really does help reduce the stress of moving in and classes and everything else."

Dog Days has been a rewarding experience of sharing the Skyes with students who love animals. While the unique look of the breed perhaps first attracted the students to the Skyes, it was most assuredly their approachability and their friendly, empathetic temperaments that made them appealing to visit with each week. I feel certain that Emily would be proud of her kids, Boz and Bea and her granddaughter Mackenzie that they are carrying on her legacy.

At the request of some of the students, we have plans to bring Boz, Bea and Mackenzie to campus one day next week and we look forward to many such visits in the future.

You can read more about Dog Days on the Gettysburg College website. I encourage you to watch the video clip of the 2006 television news coverage of the event.

September 14, 2008 - Second weekend of back-to-back group placements for Tony

Maida and I were at the Lehigh Valley Kennel Club and Berks County Kennel Club shows this past weekend. The entry both days was 1-0-2-0 with one male special absent both days.

On Saturday, Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony" took Best of Breed under judge Mr. Alan E. Bennett from Canada. In the terrier group, Tony earned a Group 3 in a strong competition. As is often the case in our area of the country, the judge had a group of quality terriers to choose from. Judge Mrs. Dorothy Taylor ultimately awarded Group 1 to the World Dog Show winning Sealy. Group 2 went to the #1 Welsh Terrier in the U.S. Group 4 went to the #1 Norwich in the U.S. Group 1, 2 and 4 were handled by professionals and Tony was owner/handled to Group 3.

On Sunday, Tony took Best of Breed under judge Mr. James Ham and then a Group 4 in a field comprised of mostly the same dogs as yesterday. The group judge was Dr. Gerard C. Penta. Group 1 again went to the Sealy. Group 2 again went to the Welsh Terrier. Group 3 went to the #1 Cairn Terrier in the U.S. and the top 3 placing dogs were professionally handled. We are pleased with Tony's showing both days.

Below are a couple of photos taken by Maida on Saturday.

Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony" in the group ring - Lehigh Valley KC - September 13, 2008

Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony" in the group ring

September 13, 2008 - More Gettysburg College Dog Days photos

Boz, Bea and Mackenzie at last week's "Dog Days" at Gettysburg College

Mackenzie at last week's "Dog Days" at Gettysburg College

Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony"
Group 2
Altoona Area Kennel Association
September 6, 2008
Judge: Mrs. Marjorie Underwood

September 10, 2008 - Gleanntan Gaelforce - "Cooper"

Gleanntan Gaelforce - "Cooper"
(Ch. Finnsky Gladiator x Ch. Gleanntan Givemebusybee!)
Owned and proudly shown by Dr. Travis S. Wright
Age 16 months

September 7, 2008 - "Dog Days" at Gettysburg College

Recently, Maida and I have been participating in a wonderful event called "Dog Days" at Gettysburg College. As a member of the Gettysburg College staff, Maida was invited to participate. To quote from the Gettysburg College website: "Dog Days" is designed to use pets to help welcome students to Gettysburg College. During the first three weeks of classes, college employees are encouraged to bring their dogs to campus for "Dog Days." Students are invited to meet the dogs and their owners. "If you get to know the dog, you can get to know the person," said Kathy Bradley, Director of the Health & Counseling Center and Associate Dean of College Life, who dreamed up Dog Days. "If a student has one connection on campus - from a custodian to the president - we're more likely to retain that student. And it addresses students' homesickness and well-being."

So on Monday and Thursday evenings, Maida and I have rushed home from our offices to pack up the Skyes for the 5:15 p.m. start of "Dog Days". So far, we have taken Boz (Ch. Gleanntan Gottalookatme), his littermate, Bea (Ch. Gleanntan Givemebusybee!) and her 16-month daughter, Mackenzie (Gleanntan Glorious Legacy). Boz and Bea have been Ronald McDonald House therapy dogs since they were four months old and they have always exhibited the empathy and sensitivity that was such an endearing quality of their mother, Emily (Ch. Gleanntan Grandxpose).

During one of the recent Gettysburg College "Dog Days" sessions, Boz, Bea and Mackenzie visited with a group of about 8 freshman students who gathered with the Skyes in a circle on the ground. Before long, the three Skyes were lying down basking in the attention of the students. Occasionally, young Mackenzie would climb into the lap of a student to give kisses. The students enjoyed talking about their animals at home and how much they missed them. They also talked about their hectic first few days and weeks adjusting to college life.

Kathy Bradley, Associate Dean for College Life, wrote in her recap of that night's session: "Maida and Michael, with their “caterpillar dogs” as some students have named them, looked like they were leading a retreat group - they were sitting on the ground amid a bunch of students who were there for the duration. Seems once on the ground, no one wanted to get back up! I left at 6:30 and they were all still there. . . (Are they still?)"

Maida and I have enjoyed this opportunity to share our Skye Terriers and the Skyes helped to put a smile on the faces of a few students.

September 7, 2008 - News!

Our much loved Emily daughter, Ch. Gleanntan Glindathegoodwitch - "Glinda", was bred to our handsome Finnish import Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony" at the end of July. An ultrasound on Friday confirmed that Glinda is in whelp. Puppies are due towards the end of this month.

This past weekend we were at the Altoona Area Kennel Association and Laurel Highlands Kennel Association shows in Ebensburg, Pennsylvania. It has been a few years since we last attended these shows and we enjoyed returning to this pretty show site. The entry both days was 0-1-3-0. The class bitch was absent both days. There were three mature, fully coated male specials on Saturday and we were pleased that Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony" took Best of Breed and a Group 2 under judge Marjorie Underwood. On Sunday, the other two specials were absent. Tony took Best of Breed under judge Don Evans and then a Group 4 under judge David Kirkland.

August 23, 2008

This weekend we are at the Mid-Susquehanna Kennel Club shows in Middleburg, Pennsylvania. Today, we had an opportunity to get new photos of Mackenzie and Mick and a photo of their sire, Tony, in the group ring.

Gleanntan Glorious Legacy - "Mackenzie"
(Ch. Finnsky Gladiator x Ch. Gleanntan Givemebusybee!)
Female  Age 16 months

Gleanntan Comeflywithme! - "Mick" (male)
(Ch. Finnsky Gladiator x Ch. Gleanntan Givemebusybee!)
Owned by Lynn and Gary Wolf
Male  Age 16 months

Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony" on the move in the group ring

August 19, 2008 - New Photo of Tony

Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony"
Best of Breed
Columbiana County KC
Skye Terrier Club of America Supported Entry (entry of 11)
August 1, 2008
Judge: Mr. Jay Richardson

August 16, 2008 - A Video Tribute to Emily

August 13, 2008 - Farewell Emily

The time came for our beloved Ch.Gleanntan Grandxpose to go to heaven. So, this evening, with very heavy hearts, Ben, Michael and Maida sent our very special girl over the Rainbow Bridge. Emily, you will never be forgotten.

August 11, 2008 - Gleanntan Glorious Legacy on the move

"Mackenzie" in full stride with her strong reach and drive. This Emily granddaughter/Bea daughter sired by Tony will be making her ring debut in September.

Gleanntan Glorious Legacy - "Mackenzie"
(Ch. Finnsky Gladiator x Ch. Gleanntan Givemebusybee!)
Born: April 17, 2007

August 10, 2008

Maida and I were at two shows closer to home this past weekend. On Saturday was the Penn Ridge KC show (judge: Mr. Norman Patton) and on Sunday was the Harrisburg KC show (judge: Mrs. Billie Kellogg) - both at the Farm Show Complex in Harrisburg, PA. Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony" took BOB both days and turned in two solid performances in a deep field of terriers.

August 3, 2008 - Canfield - Steel Valley Cluster - Skye Terrier Club of America Supported Entry Shows

Maida and I have just returned from the four Steel Valley Cluster shows in Canfield, Ohio. We were also joined by Travis Wright and Kate Kozeliski, who were attending their first Canfield, and we had a chance to visit with Roxan Rohrich.

The four shows were supported entry shows for the Skye Terrier Club of America, with an entry of between 8 and 11 Skyes each day.

It is hard to believe that this was our tenth year attending the Canfield shows. This show weekend always attracts excellent Skye competition. The large fairgrounds at Canfield are well-suited to large entries, specialties and supported entries. Because all of the shows are at the same site for the duration, the shows lend themselves to complete immersion in the sport of dogs with many opportunities to watch judging in other breeds and to simply "talk dogs."

This year we entered our Finnish import, Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony". Travis had his 15-month old Tony son Gleanntan Gaelforce - "Cooper" entered and Kate had her Tony daughter Gleanntan Gale's Grace - "Bailey" entered. Both of these promising youngsters are on their way to their AKC championships and this was a terrific weekend to benchmark their qualities and their progress.

We are very pleased to report the results from the four days. We could not be happier with the showing of Tony and his two kids. Also joining us again this long weekend was Gleanntan Glorious Legacy - "Mackenzie" who had lots of opportunities for ring training and socialization.

Here is a summary of our results for the four days:

Here are a few photos taken by Maida:

Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony" during breed judging on Friday, August 1

Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony" in the terrier group on Friday, August 1

Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony" in the terrier group on Friday, August 1

Gleanntan Gaelforce - "Cooper" with owner/handler Travis S. Wright

Gleanntan Gale's Grace - "Bailey" on the move with owner/handler Kate Kozeliski

Gleanntan Gale's Grace - "Bailey" on the move with owner/handler Kate Kozeliski

July 26, 2008

We showed at the Lackawanna KC show last weekend in Bloomsburg, PA (just Saturday). Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony" took Best of Breed.

July 20, 2008 - Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony" - #1 Skye Terrier - All Systems (through June, 2008)

Through June, 2008, Tony is the #1 Skye Terrier in the United States (breed points and all-breed) - owner/handled by Michael Pesare. We are grateful to Tony's breeders, Thea and Rolf Dahlbom, Kennel Finnsky for sending Tony to us as a young pup in October, 2005.

Rankings through June, 2008 - All-Breed Report (PDF format)

Rankings through June, 20008 - Breed Report ( PDF format)

July 20, 2008 - Back at Shows!

Maida and I took two weeks off after the Virginia Terrier weekend. Last weekend, we showed just on Saturday (7/12) at the Shawnee KC show in the Winchester, Virginia area. We had Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony" and his son Gleanntan Comeflywithme! - "Mick" (Ch. Finnsky Gladiator x Ch. Gleanntan Givemebusybee!) entered. Tony took Best of Breed on an exceedingly hot and humid day.

This past weekend, Maida and I were at the Nita Nee Kennel Club shows in Centre Hall, PA. This beautiful rural show site, at the Grange Fairgrounds, is not far from the main campus of Penn State University. The weather was once again quite hot and humid, with only a bit of relief coming from steady winds off the mountains. We had Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony" and his son Gleanntan Comeflywithme! - "Mick" entered and there was one other male Special entered from Western Pennsylvania (entry 1-0-2-0 both days).

On Saturday, Tony took Best of Breed under judge Don L. Evans and then went on to a Group 4 under judge Frank J. Washabaugh. Groups 1, 2 and 3 went to professionally-handled dogs - Group 1 was the #1 Welsh Terrier in the U.S.; Group 2 was the #2 Wire Fox Terrier in the U.S.; and Group 3 was the #1 Kerry Blue Terrier in the U.S.

On Sunday, Tony again took Best of Breed under judge Kenneth Kauffman.

We also brought Tony's 15-month old daughter, Gleanntan Glorious Legacy - "Mackenzie" (Ch. Finnsky Gladiator x Ch. Gleanntan Givemebusybee!), with us each day. After the breed judging, I gaited Mackenzie around the show grounds, giving her opportunities to practice show gaiting and to meet new people. Mackenzie will be making her ring debut soon and will be shown in the Bred by Exhibitor class.

News - January through June, 2008

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