Past News

Our Late Summer 2018 trial was held on August 24th and 26th. SV Judge Alfred Maass, who comes from the German town of Kalletal not far from Detmold, was with us to officiate. Three ADs were run on Friday the 24th. Clayton Warichak's Zaria von der Stadtrand handled by his son Seth and Dancer II von Arlett handled by Ray Silvertrust passed their AD. On Sunday, the sun came out but the temperature turned very hot. Nonetheless, it was a good day for club members as Jenvir z Kojca Holan (Argos) passed his BH and Yako z Kojca Holan (Apollo) passed his BGH1. Both were handled by Izabela Raczynski-Bell. Ray Silvertrust's Dancer II von Arlett (Danny) passed the IPO1 and Judy Kavanaugh Jeck v Kavanaugh obtained his IPO2. Lauren Piculell's Reinhard von der Stadtrand (Stash) and and Izabel Raczynski-Bell's Yako z Kojca Holan passed their SP1 and Clayton Warichak's Uwe von der Stadtrand obtained a SP2

Herr Maass noted that our field, which was prepared by Clayton and Seth Warichak, Halina Wirtanen, Jill Kennelly and Ray Silvertrust was comparable to and set up like some of the best clubs he judges at in Germany. After the protection work was complete, Herr Maassr complimented our trial helper Ed Calderon for his fair and uniform work which he said was on a par with the best he sees in Germany.

Luke

Nina

Milla

Dancer

Ines

As the saying goes "The show must go on." And despite the fact that the temperature reached 100° F on Saturday, June 30, the 2018 Midwest Conformation Championship Show did go on. The next day, which was almost as warm, the breed survey and trial took place. SV Judge and Körmeister (Breed Survey Master) Jürgen Maibüchen, who comes from the German town of Betteldorf, located in the Rheinland Palatinate south of Cologne, officiated. Several club dogs participated and had fine results. Among them were Hasnain YarKhan's Ines von der Konigsgaarde who finished first in the 12-18 month Long Coat Female Class. Other club dogs taking part included Mike and Tammie Bock's Nicco Gabriel vom Mittelwest in the Working Class Males who received the V (excellent) rating and their Nina vom Haus Khan in the 9-12 Female Class. Chris Schneider's Luke vom Polarkreis in the Long Coat Working Class Males also received his V rating as did Ray Silvertrust's Milla von Dragalevtzi in the Working Class Females. His Dancer II von Arlett went SG3 in the 12-18 Month Male Class. From Clayton Warichak's Von der Stadtrand kennel came Uschi in the Open Female Class, Zaria in the 12-18 Month Female Class, Cookie in the 9-12 Female Class, Frederika in the 6-9 Month Female Class and Hildegard in the 4-6 Month Female Class. Jill Kennelly's Corina vom Mittelwest appeared in the 9-12 Month Female Class. Carolyn Kurt's Idol von Melanchthon and Ray Silvertrust's Dancer II von Arlett obtained their BHs, while Brian Mitchell's Alta Tollhaus Sade and Andrius Arbatauskas' Colt vom Mittelwest received the BGH 1 titles. At the breed survey Ray Silvertrust's Milla von Dragalevtzi and Judy Kanvanaugh's Jeck v Kavanaugh obtained the coveted Lifetime KKL breeding suitability rating.

Herr Maibüchen complimented the Club on a very smooth and well run show. As always, this was the result of many club members working very hard to make it happen. Helping with registration were Halina Wirtanen, Izabela Raczynski-Bell and Carolyn Kurt. Jim Wirtanen handled refreshments, Izabela Bell supervised the raffle and we were fortunate to have Eddie Calderon Jr and Alex Calderon selling tickets for us. Halina Wirtanen, Seth Warichak, Lauren Piculell, and Skyler Silvertrust served as our ever efficient ring stewards, overseeing trophies, show cards, chip reading and several other necessary tasks. And Skyler also handled two club dogs. Lauren Piculell, Jill Kennelly and Halina Wirtanen took photos for us. Andrius Arbatauskas, Brian Mitchell, Ed Calderon, Jason Bell, Seth and Clayton Warichak all helped with the field setup. Thanks also to Eddie Calderon Sr. who served as helper for the breed survey and was praised for his work by Herr Maibüchen.

Our Autumn 2017 trial was held on November 18th and 19th. SV Judge Norbert Feeser who comes from the German town of Bad König not far from Frankfurt, was with us to officiate. Two BHs and an AD were run on Saturday the 18th. Unfortunately, the weather was cold and rainy mixed with sleet. Still, Clayton Warichak's Uwe von der Stadtrand and Iszabela Raczynski-Bell's Yako z Kolce-Holan (Apollo) obtained their BHs. Judy Kavanaugh's Celly von Oasis (Lexie) was undaunted by the weather as she and Ray Silvertrust completed the AD. On Sunday, the sun came out but the temperature dropped even further into the high 20s. Nonetheless, it was a good day for club members as Lauren Piculell's Reinhard von der Stadtrand (Stash) and Judy Kavanaugh's Celly von Oasis passed their BHs. Uwe von der Stadtrand, now a BH, passed his SP1 and Axa von der Sportwaffen, handled by Chris Hagen, passed the IPO1 while Brian Mitchell's Alta-Tollhaus Sade (Bridie) obtained her IPO II. Meanwhile Ray Silvertrust's Milla von Dragalevtzi wowed all who watched her 96-90-96 performance on her way to an IPO III

Herr Feeser noted that our field, which was prepared by Clayton Warichak, Halina Wirtanen, Chris and John Hagen, Brian Mitchell and Ray Silvertrust, was comparable to and set up like some of the best clubs he judges at in Germany. After the protection work was complete, Herr Feeser complimented our trial helper Ed Calderon for his fair and uniform work which he said was on a par with the best he sees in Germany.

Flame

Milla

Lexie

Isen

Ines

The 2017 Midwest Conformation Championship Show and Breed Survey, which took place on September 30 and October 1, was hosted by the Chicago Schutzhund Verein. SV Judge and Körmeister (Breed Survey Master) Christoph Ludwig, who comes from the German town of Gemmerich in Rheinland Pfalz officiated. Several club dogs participated and had fine results. Among them were Halina Wirtanen's Isen von der Stadtrand who for the third year running was the Open Class Males Long Coat winner. Judy Kavanaugh's Celly vom Oasis (Lexie) finished second in the Open Class Females. Other club members taking part included Ray Silvertrust's Milla von Dragalevtzi in the Working Class Females receiving a V (excellent) rating. Sandy Nueschen's Flame von Nummer-Eins in the 12-18 Month Female Class received an SG (very good) rating as did Clayton Warichak's Uwe von der Stadtrand in the 18-24 Male Class. Hasnain YarKahn's Ines von der Konigsgarde received a VP (very promising) rating in the 6-9 Month Long Coat Puppy Class. Lexie was handled by Karina Calderon. Isen, Milla and Flame by Ed Calderon and Clayton handled his Uwe.

Herr Ludwig complimented the Club on a very smooth and well run show. As always, this was the result of many club members working very hard to make it happen. Helping with registration were Halina Wirtanen and Carolyn Kurt. Jim Wirtanen handled refreshments, Izabela Bell supervised the raffle and we were fortunate to have Eddie Calderon Jr and Alex Calderon selling tickets for us. Our ring stewards, Skyler Silvertrust, Seth Warichak, Halina Wirtanen and Judy Kavanaugh handled, trophies, show cards, chip reading and several other necessary tasks. Sandy Nueschen took photos for us. Andrius Arbatauskas, Brian Mitchell, Ed Calderon, Samir AlZaim and Clayton Warichak. Thanks also to Eddie Calderon Sr. who served as helper for the breed survey and was praised for his work by Herr Ludwig.

Our Summer 2017 trial was held on July 16th and 17th. The ADs were run on the 16th. The weather was near perfect, seasonable and cloudless. Guests Clayton and Seth Warichak and Patrick Piculell and their dogs all succeeded in passing the test. The rest of the trial took place the following day, which was overcast and rainy. SV Judge Herr Heinz Balonier, who comes from the German town of Großostheim not far from Frankfurt, was with us to officiate. New titles awarded to club members' dogs included Andrew Esquivel's Prada vom Mittelwest II who passed her BH and Andrius Arbatauskas' Colt vom Mittelwest obtained his IPO Protection III, while Ray Silvertrust's Milla von Dragalevtzi passed her IPO II.

Herr Balonier remarked that our field, which was prepared by Andrew Esquivel, Andrius Arbatauskas, Brian Mitchell, Fred and Sandy Nueschen, and Halina Wirtanen, was comparable to and set up like some of the best clubs he judges at in Germany. After the protection work was complete, Herr Balonier complimented our trial helpers Ed Calderon and Ray Silvertrust for their fair and uniform work which he said was on a par with that of clubs he sees in Germany.

Windy

Sade

Colt

Milla

Lexie

Isen

The 2016 Midwest Conformation Championship Show and Breed Survey, which took place on September 17-19, was hosted by the Chicago Schutzhund Verein. SV Judge and Körmeister (Breed Survey Master) Rainer Mast, who comes from the German town of Laupheim in the southwest province of Württemberg, officiated. Several club dogs participated and had fine results. Among them was Judy Kavanaugh's Celly vom Oasis (Lexie) who took first place in the 18-24 Month Junghund (Young Dog) Female Class. In the Open Class Females, Samir AlZaim's Windy appeared in her first show and finished a strong SG2 impressive for a dog with only a little show training. In the Open Class Males Long Coat Class Halina Wirtanen's Isen von der Stadtrand finished SG1 for the second year running. In the Open Class Males Stock Hair Class, for the third year running, Andrius Arbatauskas' Colt vom Mittelwest took first place (SG1). Ray Silvertrust's Milla von Dragalevtzi and Brian Mitchell's Alta Toll-Hause Sade were showing in the Working Class Females for the first time, each receiving the V (excellent) rating. as did Judy Kavanaugh;s Jeck v Kavanaugh. who appeared for the first time in the Working Class Males. Lexie, Windy and Jeck were handled in the ring by Ray Silvertrust, Milla and Colt were handled by Andrius Arbatauskas, Sade by Samir AlZaim and Isen by Halina.

Herr Mast complimented the Club on a very smooth and well run show. As always, this was the result of many club members working very hard to make it happen. Helping with registration were Halina Wirtanen and Carolyn Kurt. Jim Wirtanen handled refreshments, Halina supervised the raffle and we were fortunate to have Jody and Feisel AlZaim along with Eddie Calderon Jr helping us sell tickets. Judy Kavanaugh served as our trusty ring stewart. Andrius Arbatauskas, Brian Mitchell and Samir AlZaim did a great job setting up the ring and getting our trophies ready to go. Our show photos were taken by Halina Wirtanen and Ami Prindeville. Thanks also to Eddie Calderon Sr. who served as helper for the breed survey and was praised for his work by Herr Mast.

Our summer 2016 trial was held on July 17th. The weather was warn and overcast and a strong thunderstorm, which thankfully did not last too long, interrupted protection work. SV Judge Herr Norbert Feeser, who comes from the German town of Bad König not far from Darmstadt and Frankfurt, was with us to officiate. Several club members and their dogs were able to obtain new titles Among them were Halina Wirtanen's Isen von der Stadtrand who passed his AD and IPO Tracking II, Brian Mitchell's Alta-Tollhaus Sade (Bridey) passed her IPO I, Judy Kavanaugh's Jeck v Kavanaugh. passed his IPO I and Loreta Arbatauskas and her Colt vom Mittelwest obtained their IPO Protection II.

Herr Feeser remarked that our field, which was prepared by Andrius Arbatauskas, Brian Mitchell, Ray Silvertrust and Halina Wirtanen, was comparable to and set up like some of the best clubs he judges at in Germany. After the protection work was complete, Herr Feeser complimented our trial helper Andrius Arbatauskas for his fair and uniform work which he said was on a par with that of clubs he sees in Germany.

Our autumn 2015 trial was held on October 25th. The weather was sunny and brisk, typical for the Chicago area at this time of year. SV Judge Herr Andre Polok, who comes from the German city of Nordhausen, was with us to officiate. Several club members and their dogs were able to obtain new titles Among them were Halina Wirtanen's Isen von der Stadtrand, Brian Mitchell's Alta-Tollhaus Sade, Jimmy Jacob's Hektor von Vazquez, Dennis Urbanik's Hossa Chicago's Legend, Marian Thrash's Simba von Thrash, Vicki Urbanik's Heike vom Lebenstraum and Judy Kavanaugh's Jeck v Kavanaugh.

Herr Polok noted that our field, which was prepared by Andrius Arbatauskas, Chris Polacek, Dennis Urbanik, Jimmy Jacob, Marian Thrash and Halina Wirtanen, was comparable to and set up like some of the best clubs he judges at in Germany. After the protection work was complete, Herr Polok complimented our trial helper Ray Silvertrust for his fair and uniform work which he he said was on a par with that of clubs he sees in Germany.

Heike

Blaz

Sade

Colt

Blu

Hektor

The 2015 Midwest Conformation Championship Show and Breed Survey, which took place on September 19-20, was hosted by the Chicago Schutzhund Verein. SV Judge and Körmeister (Breed Survey Master) Albrecht Woerner, who comes from the German town of Lauffen not far from Stuttgart, officiated. Several club dogs participated and had fine results. Among them was Chris Polacek's Belle vom Lebenstraum in the 9-12 Month Female Puppy Class. In the 9-12 Month Male Class was Marian Thrash's Blu vom Lebenstraum and Michael Oberlander's Blaz vom Lebenstraum Vicki and Dennis Urbanik's Heike vom Lebenstraum was shown in the 12-18 Month Female Youth Class, while Jimmy Jacob's Hektor vom Vazquez appeared in the 18-24 Month Male Young Dog Class. In the Open Class Females, Brian Mitchell's Alta-Tollhaus Sade went SG3 and in the Open Class Males Long Coat Class Halina Wirtanen's Isen von der Stadtrand appeared in his first show. In the Open Class Males Stock Hair Class, for the second year running, Andrius Arbatauskas' Colt vom Mittelwest took first place (SG1). Marian Thrash's Simba vom Thrash finished second followed by Jana Tomek's Gianno vom Team Brabandt and Judy Kavanaugh;s Jeck v Kavanaugh. also appearing for the first time. Belle, Blaz, Heike, Hektor, Sade and Isen were handled in the ring by Ray Silvertrust, while Blu and Jeck were handled by Skyler Silvertrust.

Herr Woerner complimented the Club on a very smooth and well run show. As always, this was the result of many club members working very hard to make it happen. Helping in the ring, with registration, with refreshments, the raffle and many other things were Judy Kavanaugh, Halina Wirtanen, Chris Polacek and her husband Jeff, Marian Thrash, Dennis & Vicki Urbanik, Jimmy Jacob, and Carolyn Kurt. Andrius Arbatauskas, Brian Mitchell and Dennis Urbanik did a great job setting up the ring and getting our trophies ready to go. Our show photos were taken by Michael Oberlander and Jana Tomek. Thanks also to Eddie Calderon who served as helper for the breed survey and was praised for his work by Herr Woerner.

Our autumn 2014 trial was held on November 9th. The weather was brisk and windy. SV Judge Herr Jakob Meyer, who comes from the German city of Hanover, was with us to officiate. Several club members and their dogs were able to obtain new titles Among them were Carolyn Kurt's Alta-Tollhaus Kali, Brian Mitchell's Alta-Tollhaus Sade, Jana Tomak's Giano vom Team Brabant, Irene Clute's Ina von Melanchthon and Andrius Arbatauskas' Colt vom Mittelwest.

Herr Meyer noted that our field, which was prepared by Andrius Arbatauskas, Brian Mitchell, and Jana Tomak, was comparable to and set up like some of the best clubs he judges at in Germany. After the protection work was complete, Herr Meyer praised our trial helper Ray Silvertrust for his fair and uniform work which he he said was on a par with that of clubs he sees in Germany. Afterwards, he tested Andrius Arbatauskas' helper work and found him a safe and promising young helper.

Heska

Ina

Sade

Colt

Axel

Petsi

The 2014 Midwest Conformation Championship Show and Breed Survey, which took place on June 14-15, was hosted by the Chicago Schutzhund Verein. SV Judge and Körmeister (Breed Survey Master) Uwe Sprenger, who comes from the German town of Netphen between the cities of Cologne and Dusseldorf, officiated. Several club dogs participated and had fine results. Among them was Silvio Huet's Kammi vom Kaiser Schloss (Petsi) who took part in her first show in the 6-9 Month Female Puppy Class. She was handled by Ray Silvertrust. In the Open Class Females, Irene Clute's Ina von Melanchthon took first place (SG1) for the second year in a row and Brian Mitchell's Alta-Tollhaus Sade handled by Ray Silvertrust finished third (SG3). In the Open Class Males, Andrius Arbatauskas' Colt vom Mittelwest took first place (SG1). He was handled by Ray Silvertrust. Leslie Manara's Haxel vom Haus Kuhn (Axel), handled by Skyler Silvertrust, finished third. Ray's Heska von der Neuen Welt, who is almost eight years old, was expertly shown by Skyler Silvertrust. Together they put on a terrific performance taking second place (V-2) and becoming the 2014 Vize Siegerin of the Working Class Females and in the process beating out some very nice and much younger females including a VA Sieger Show dog.

Herr Sprenger complimented the Club on a very smooth and well run show. As always, this was the result of many club members working very hard to make it happen. Among them were Irene Clute who served as Chief Ring Steward, Registrar and director of our raffle. Andrius Arbatauskas, Alex Manzara, Brian Mitchell and Silvio Huet did a great job setting up the ring and getting our trophies ready to go. Leslie Manzara was our Assistant Ring Steward and our show photographer. Helping with lunch and refreshments were Jana Tomak, Carolyn Kurt, Andrius & Loretta Arbatauskas. Jana Tomak's children, who were Irene's raffle assistants, did a great job selling tickets. Thanks also to Eddie Calderon who served as helper for the breed survey and was praised for his work by Herr Sprenger.

Heska

Ina

Kali

Colt

Axel

Giano

Our club hosted the 2013 Midwest Conformation Championship Show and Breed Survey, which took place on June 8-9 with SV Judge and Körmeister (Breed Survey Master) Joachim Stiegler, who comes from the German town of Hohenstein-Ernsttal not far from the City of Chemnitz. Several club dogs participated and had fine results. Among them was Jana Tomak's Giano vom Team Brabant who took second place in the 4-6 Month Male Puppy Class. He was handled by Ray Silvertrust. In the Open Class Females, Irene Clute's Ina von Melanchthon took first place and Carolyn Kurt's Alta-Tollhaus Kali, handled by Skyler Silvertrust, finished third. In the Open Class Males, Andrius Arbatauskas' Colt vom Mittelwest went SG2 and Leslie Manzara's Haxel vom Haus Kuhn, handled by Ray Silvertrust finished SG3. Ray's Heska von der Neuen Welt, who is almost seven years old, was expertly shown by Skyler Silvertrust. Together they put on a terrific performance taking second place (V-2) in the Working Class Females and beating out some very nice and much younger females.

Herr Stiegler complimented the Club on a very smooth and well run show. As always, this was the result of many club members working very hard to make it happen. Among them were Irene Clute who served as Chief Ring Steward, Registrar and director of our raffle. Andrius Arbatauskas and Alex Manzara did a great job setting up the ring and getting our trophies ready to go. Leslie Manzara was our Assistant Ring Steward and our show photographer. Helping with lunch and refreshments were Jana Tomak, Sharon Moran, Leslie Manara and Skyler Silvertrust. Sharon Moran's children, who were Irene's raffle assistants, did a great job selling tickets. Thanks also to Eddie Calderon who served as helper for the breed survey and was praised for his work by Herr Stiegler.


Ina	Sade	Colt	Heska	Santo

Five club dogs and three club members took part in this year's North American Sieger Show held in Medinah, Illinois on October 19-21. Congratulations to Irene Clute whose dog Ina von Melanchthon received an SG10 in a very strong Youth Class Females which had over 30 dogs. Irene's Alta Tollhaus Sade received an SG rating in the Young Dog Females Class. Congratulations also to Andrius Arbatauskas whose dog Colt vom Mittelwest received an SG rating in the Young Dog Males Class. Meanwhile Ray Silvertrust's dog Santo von der Neuen Welt won the Veteran Males Class while his Heska von der Neuen Welt took second place in the Veterans Female Class. Both Heska and Santo were handled by Skyler Silvertrust.

Our autumn 2012 trial was held on September 29-30. The weather on both days was excellent, sunny but not too warm nor too cold. SV Judge Herr Reinhold Walter, who comes from the German village of Einbeck was with us to officiate. Several club members and their dogs were able to obtain new titles. Colt vom Mittelwest, handled by Andrius Arbatauskas, Haxel vom Haus Kuhn (Axel) handled by Leslie Manzara, Pippen of My Bodyguard (Beckham) handled by Derrick Foreman, and Danuta Lexi vom Kavi Haus, handled by Paul Slomba all passed their BHs handily. Paul and his Doberman Diesel also obtained their BH. In addition, Colt vom Mittelwest, handled by Andrius Arbatauskas passed their AD test. Guest Zyta Piotrowski and her dog Wizard also obtained an AD.

Our field was expertly prepared by Andrius Arbatauskas, Leslie Manzara, Derrick Foreman, and Irene Clute. Herr Walter noted that the field was professionally set up. and commented that it was comparable to those of the best clubs he judges at in Germany.Thanks to Irene Clute who helped serve our trial lunch and refreshments and provided a tent for the judge and to Carolyn Kurt who helped in the Group and at lunch. After our protection work was complete, Herr Meyer praised our certified regional helper Ray Silvertrust for his fair and uniform work which he he said was on a par with that of clubs he sees in Germany.

Our 2012 Spring Conformation Show and Breed Survey took place on May 12-13 with SV Judge and Körmeister Thomas Teubert, who hails from the German town of Döbritz in the province of Thuringia. Several club dogs participated and had fine results. Among them were Irene Clute's Alta-Tollhaus Sade who received her first SG rating and Ina von Melanchthon, Ina took second place in the 9-12 Month Females Class. Also shown were Andrius Arbatauskas's Colt vom Mittelwest, Stan Kitzinger's Alta-Tollhaus Keeper (Bakke), Leslie Manzara's Haxel von Haus Kuhn, Malgo Kopec's Gusto Sab von Neohaus, and Paul Slomba's Danuta Lexi vom Kavihaus. They all received SG ratings. Derrick Foreman's Pippin of My BodyGuard (Beckham) received a Very Promising rating. Ray's Silvertrust's Heska von der Neuen Welt, received another V rating and his Santo von der Neuen Welt, the only dog shown in the Veteran's Class, impressed Herr Teubert who praised for him not only for his excellent conformation but especially for his superb physical condition at age 9 1/2. Beckham was handled by Andrius Arbatauskas, Haxel by Stan Kitzinger, and Heska and Santo by Skyler Silvertrust. All of the other dogs were shown by Ray Silvertrust.

Herr Teubert complimented the Club on a first class and very well run show. As always, this was the result of many club members working very hard to make it happen. Among them were Irene Clute who served as Chief Ring Stewart, Registrar and director of our raffle. Stan Kitzinger, Andrius Arbatauskas and Ed Irwin did a great job setting up the ring and getting our trophies ready to go. Malgo Kopec and Skyler Silvertrust were our Assistant Ring Stewarts, and Malgo also, along with Loretta Arbatauskas, helped with refreshments. Our Photographer was Leslie Manzara. Thanks also to Eddie Calderon who served as helper for the breed survey and was praised for his work by Herr Teubert.

Our 2011 autumn trial was held on October 15-16. Except for Sunday morning, before tracking began when it rained, the weather was typical autumn Chicago weather, in the low 60's and windy. SV Judge Herr Jakob Meyer, who comes from the German city of Hannover was with us to officiate. For the first time in several years, no one in the club was trialing for a Schutzhund I, II or III but several were entered for BHs and an AD. And we now have members with 5 new titles. Gusto Sab vom Neohaus, handled by Malgo Kopec, Alta-Tollhaus Keeper (Bakke) handled by Stan Kitzinger, Alta-Tollhaus Kali handled by Carolyn Kurt and Shemp VIII handled by Larry Hoseman all passed their BHs in flying colors while Moonquests Treue handled by Nancy Pritz passed their AD test. Guest Thomas Schoder and Bannock vom Mittelwest obtained a SchH3.

Our field was expertly prepared by Stan Kitzinger, Larry Hoseman, Andrius Arbatauskas and Leslie Manzara and Herr Meyer commented he was quite pleased to see such a fine field so professionally setup. He noted it was comparable to those of the best clubs he judges at in Germany.Thanks to Irene Clute who helped serve our trial lunch and refreshments and provided a tent for the judge. After our protection work was complete, Herr Meyer praised our certified regional helper Skyler Silvertrust for his fair and uniform work which he called in every way comparable to the best in Germany.

Our club hosted the 2011 Midwest Conformation Championship Show and Breed Survey, which took place on June 11-12 with SV Judge and Körmeister Bernd Weber, who comes from the German town of Bad Schwartau not far from the City of Lübeck. Several club dogs participated and had fine results. Among them was Paul Slomba's Danuta Lexi vom Kavihaus who took first place in the Long Coat Adult Female Class. Carolyn Kurt's Alta-Tollhaus Kali and Stan Kitzinger's Alta-Tollhaus Keeper (Bakke) both made SG4 finishes in strong female and male Youth Classes, while Malgo Kopec's Gusto Sab von Neohaus gave it his all in the Open Class Males taking SG5. All four dogs were handled by Ray Silvertrust. In the 3-6 Month Puppy Class Females Irene Clute's Alta-Tollhaus Sade went VP5 and Amy Schroedl's Alta-Tollhaus Samson went VP8. Joey Schroedl handled both dogs. Meanwhile Ray's Heska von der Neuen Welt, who was shown by Skyler Silvertrust, went V-3 in an exceptionally strong Working Class Females. Additionally, Heska was surveyed KKL1 for Life.

Herr Weber complimented the Club on a very smooth and well run show. As always, this was the result of many club members working very hard to make it happen. Among them were Irene Clute who served as Chief Ring Stewart, Registrar and director of our raffle. Ed Irwin, Larry Hoseman, Stan Kitzinger and Gerry Tegmeyer did a great job setting up the ring and getting our trophies ready to go, while Carolyn Kurt and Malgo Kopec helped with refreshments, the raffle and check-in and Joey Schroedl did a great job with the raffle. Thanks are also due Skyler Silvertrust and Amy Schroedl who both pitched in and all helped to make this event the success that it was. Skyler served as helper for the breed survey and was praised for his work by Herr Weber.

On September 18-19, SV Judge and Körmeister Rainer Mast joined us again to officiate at our autumn conformation show and breed survey. On Show Day--Saturday-- just as we were ready to start, the sky clouded over and it began to heavily rain. But, fortunately, after about an hour, it let up and we were able to begin. The weather was unseasonably cool and mostly cloudy but at least it did not rain on us. The show went smoothly and Herr Mast complimented our club on its fine organization Much of the credit for this must go to Irene Clute for all of her administrative help on both days and Ed Irwin who set up our ring. Gerry and Cindy Tegmeyer, Brian and Christine Panek, Linda Matthews and Dave, Amy Schroedl and Roger Torres all helped out taking care of the little things which make the difference between a show that runs smoothly and one that doesn't. Quarta vom Haus Miller who was handled by her owner Roger Torres won the Open Females Class, while Heska von der Neuen Welt, handled by Skyler Silvertrust finished second in the Working Class Females Class. The breed survey took place on Sunday which thankfully was sunny and much warmer. Congratulations to club members Lisa London and her dog Frederik vom Landschaft a both of whom obtained their KKL1's. Fred also got his AD the day before. A big thank you to our GSDCA-WDA Certified Helpers Ed Irwin, whom Judge Mast praised for his fair, safe and consistent helper work during the breed survey.

Our 2010 summer trial was held on June 26-27. The weather was quite warm and humid both days with temperatures in the 90's and occasional thunderstorms. SV Judge Herr Klaus Ambrosius, who comes from the town of Augustdorf near Bielefeld, Germany was with us once again to officiate. When the dust settled, it was a very successful trial for our club members with 8 new titles! Griffin von Klaren Himmel, handled by Gerry Tegmeyer passed their BH test. In addition, we have four new SchH1 teams: Shilo von Melanchthon handled by Irene Clute, Dieta von der Urbecke handled by Linda Matthews, Frederik von Landschaft handled by Lisa London, and Quantana vom Brandenholz handled by Brian Panek. Eskimov von Schoerling, who was handled by Nancy Pritz, rceived an OB1. Meanwhile, Hoss vom Mittelwest, who was handled by Ed Irwin and Heska von der Neuen Welt, who was handled by Ray Silvertrust successfully passed their SchH3 examinations. Guests Lies Rosema, Ronald Stokes, Rebecca Perry, Debby Melle, Monica Bendt, Kayla Pac, and Tessa Martinez and their dogs received BH titles, while Monica Bendt, Debby Melle, Ronald Stokes, Kayla Pac and Anton Tomov and their dogs passed their AD test.

Our field was expertly prepared by Gerry Tegmeyer, Brian Mitchell and Nancy Pritz and Herr Ambrosius commented that it was always a pleasure to see such a professional setup comparable to that of the best clubs he judges at in Germany.Thanks to Nancy Pritz and Carolyn Kurt who helped serve our trial lunch and refreshments. As usual, we were fortunate to have a tent provided by Irene Clute. After our protection work was complete, Herr Ambrosius praised our certified regional helper Skyler Silvertrust for his excellent work which he called "on a par with the best of them in Germany" and also praised Ed Irwin for his debut as a trial helper.

On October 17-18, 2009, SV Judge Hans-Peter Fetten joined us again to officiate at our autumn conformation show and breed survey. On Show Day--Saturday-- the weather was unseasonably cool and mostly cloudy but at least it did not rain on us. The show went smoothly and Herr Fetten complimented our club for the finely organized event. Much of the credit for this must go to Irene Clute for all of her administrative help on both days and Ed Irwin who set up our rings both days. Thanks also to Gerry Tegmeyer and to Linda Matthews, Dave, Mark and George who did all of the little things that make the difference between a show that runs smoothly and one that doesn't. The breed survey took place on Sunday which thankfully was sunny and much warmer. Congratulations to club members Ed Irwin and his dog Hoss vom Mittelwest and also to Ray Silvertrust and his dog Heska von der Neuen Welt both of whom obtained their KKL1's. Judge Fetten was impressed by the preparation of the dogs and sportsman-like behavior of the handlers. He also praised GSDCA-WDA Regional Helpers Skyler Silvertrust and Dean Salamone for their fair, safe and consistent helper work.

Our autumn trial was held on September 19-20. The weather was warm and sunny throughout. SV Judge Peter Pruehs, who hails from the town of Wakendorf near Hamburg, Germany joined to us to officiate. The following club members and their dogs successfully obtained new titles: Hoss vom Mittelwest, handled by Ed Irwin and Heska von der Neuen Welt, handled by Ray Silvertrust passed their SchH2 examinations. Dieta von der Urbecke, handled by Linda Matthews obtained their TR1 and AD. Guests Jason Opiola, Lauren Fischer, Bob Pac and Brad Westman and their dogs all obtained schutzhund titles, Patricia Beachamp and her dog obtained an obedience title. Monica Bendt and her dog passed their BH and AD while Amanda Claps and Anton Tomov and their dogs received BHs. Debby Melle and Grzegorz Kuc and their dogs passed their AD test.

Our field was expertly prepared by Ed Irwin and Irene Clute. Herr Pruehs once again told us that our field setup compared favorably to the clubs he usually judges in Germany. Thanks to Irene Clute and Carolyn Kurt who helped serve our lunch and refreshments. As usual, we were fortunate to have two tents provided by Irene Clute and the Irwins. Thanks also to Julie Saso and Amanda Claps, our expert track-layers. Skyler Silvertrust and Dean Salamone our helpers received high praise from Herr Pruehs for their safe and fair helper work. Herr Pruehs gave Skyler the highest rating possible, excellent.

On May 30, 2009, Santo von der Neuen Welt took first place in the Working Dog Male Class while Santo's daughter, Heska von der Neuen Welt, took first place in the Working Dog Female Class at the USCA North Central Regional Conformation Show under Conformation Judge Johannes Grewe and hosted by the OG Bierstadt Schutzhund Club in Campbellsport,Wisconsin. This was the 5th year that Santo won a regional conformation championship and the 3rd time he won in the Working Class. Santo and Heska were both handled by Skyler Silvertrust.

On May 22, 2009, Hoss vom Mittelwest handled by Ed Irwin obtained their Schutzhund I title under SV Judge Rudiger Mai. Job well done.

Our autumn trial was held on November 29-30. The weather turned cold and blustery and with it brought windy snow showers. SV Judge Herr Lajos Földvari, who hails from the town of Kerpen near Cologne, Germany joined to us to officiate. The following club members and their dogs successfully passed their AD test: Shilo von Melanchthon, handled by Tim Clute and Hoss vom Mittelwest, handled by Ed Irwin. Maggie von Bowne Haus, handled by Jim Castleton obtained their TR3 while Heska von der Neuen Welt, successfully passed her SchH1 examination. Heska was handled by Ray Silvertrust. Guests Brian Panek, Lisa London, Melissa McCord, Nicole Meadowcroft and Beata Wazny and their dogs received BH titles, while Brian Panek and Kathleen Sanderson and their dogs passed their AD test.

Our field was expertly prepared by Ed Irwin and Irene Clute. Herr Földvari noted with pleasure that our field setup compared favorably to the clubs he usually judges in Germany.Thanks to Erin Irwin for preparing our trial lunch and refreshments and to Carolyn Kurt who helped serve them. As usual, we were fortunate to have two tents provided by Irene Clute and the Irwins. Thanks also to Jim Castleton and Brian Mitchell, our expert track-layers who worked under difficult conditions and to Skyler Silvertrust who competently handled his duties as Field Steward for the judge as well as serving as translator. Additionally, Herr Földvari praised Skyler for his fair and safe protection work, giving him the highest rating possible, excellent.

4 Times Midwest Sieger

Santo von der Neuen Welt

Midwest Young Dog Siegerin

Goscha v.d. Ianhoeve

2008 Midwest Young Dog Sieger

Hoss vom Mittelwest

Our club hosted the 2008 Midwest Conformation Championship Show, which took place on September 27-28 with SV Judge and Breed Survey Master Rainer Mast. Many club dogs had outstanding placings. Among them were Santo von der Neuen Welt who once again became the Midwest Conformation Sieger, taking first place in the Working Dog Class. He was shown by Skyler Silvertrust. Santo's daughter Heska von der Neuen Welt, won her class and is the Midwest Open Class Siegerin. Carolyn Kurt's Goscha v.d. Ianhoeve won her class becoming the Midwest Young Dog Siegerin while Ed Irwin's Hoss vom Mittelwest was the Young Dog Sieger. In other results, Amy Schroedl's Eve vom Neohaus finished a very strong VP3 in a large 9-12 Female Class, while Amy's Vito vom Zisawinkel won the 3-6 month Male Class. Heska, Goscha, Hoss, Eve and Vito were all handled by Ray Silvertrust. Additionally, Heska passed her AD while her father Santo was surveyed KKL1 for Life.

Herr Mast complimented the Club on a very smooth and well run show. Tbis was the result of many club members, in particular, Irene Clute who served as Chief Ring Stewart and Registrar as well as Erin and Ed Irwin who worked incredibly hard not only providing outstanding food and refreshments but also helping to set up the field. Thanks are also due Skyler Silvertrust who served as Assistant Ring Stewart and was the Protection Helper at the breed survey. Club members Carolyn Kurt, Brian Mitchell, Joyce Silvertrust, Amy Schroedl, along with her son Joey and mother Annette all pitched in and all helped to make this event the success that it was.

On September 7th, 2008, the Club hosted a Helper Certification Examination with Teaching Helper Steve Miller. Congratulations to Ed Irwin who passed the examination and is now a GSDCA-WDA Certified Club Helper. Congratulations also to Skyler Silvertrust who is now a Regional Level Helper. Guests Peter Dummer and Chris Johnson also received their certifications.

On August 2, 2008, Santo von der Neuen Welt took third place in the Working Dog Class while Santo's daughter Heska von der Neuen Welt, also took third place in the 18-24 Month Female Class at the USCA North Central Regional Conformation Show under SV Judge Joachim Dux and hosted by Hauptstadt Schutzhund Verein in Spring Green, Wisconsin. Santo was handled by Skyler Silvertrust while Ray handled Heska.

Congratulations to club members Ed Irwin and his dog Hoss vom Mittelwest, pictured on left gaiting, who took third place in the 12-18 Month Males class under SV Judge Dieter Oeser. Also to Amy Schroedl and her dog, Eve von NeoHaus who received a SG rating. Both dogs were handled by Ray Silvertrust.

Ray's dog Santo von der Neuen Welt finished second in the Working Dog Class, with the judge noting that he was just as good as the first place dog and he really had trouble making up his mind. Santo was handled by Amy.

Our summer trial was held on June 21-22. The weather was mostly sunny and though only in the low 80's, rather humid. SV Judge Herr Klaus Ambrosius, who hails from Schloss Holte, a small town near Bielefeld, Germany returned to us to officiate. The following club members and their dogs all successfully passed their BH test: Goscha van de Ianhoeve, handled by Carolyn Kurt, Valeska vom Barockschoessle, handled by Amy Schroedl, Hoss vom Mittelwest, handled by Ed Irwin, Shilo von Melanchthon, handled by Irene Clute, Ekimov von Schoerling, handled by Nancy Pritz and Heska von der Neuen Welt, who after only 5 weeks of training also passed. Heska was handled by Ray Silvertrust. Guests Bob Wrann and Trish Campbell and their dogs Rudy and Harley also received BH titles. Duffy von Fenwald, handled by Brian Mitchell, passed their IPO3. Ekimov von Schoerling also passed his AD test.

Our field was expertly prepared by Ed Irwin, Irene Clute, Nancy Pritz, Carolyn Kurt, Kelly Preusner, and Amy and Joey Schroedl. Thanks also to our guest Bob Wrann for his help. Herr Ambrosius noted that our field setup compared favorably to the clubs he ususually judges in Germany and said he has come to expect nothing less from the members of the Chicago Schutzhund Verein. Thanks to Erin Irwin for supervising and preparing our trial lunch and refreshments. As usual, we were fortunate to have two tents provided by Irene Clute and the Irwins. Our Group Captain and Trial Secretary, Joyce Silvertrust insured that the Gruppe was always unobtrusively on the field as needed, while Skyler Silvertrust competently handled his duties as Field Steward for the judge. Herr Ambrosius praised our track-layer and protection helper Ray Silvertrust and thanked him for his fair and safe protection work, giving him the highest rating possible, excellent.

Congratulations to Amy Schroedl and her dog Eve vom NeoHaus, who took first place in a large and strong class of 9-12 Month Females under SV Judge Franz Peter Knaul on June 14, 2008. Amy is Eve's breeder. Herr Knaul praised Eve's movement, energy and presentation. She was handled by Ray Silvertrust. Ray's dog Santo von der Neuen Welt finished second in the Working Dog Class. Santo was handled by Amy.

On November 17-18, 2007, SV Judge Hans-Peter Fetten joined us to officiate at our autumn breed survey and conformation show. The weather was cool and cloudy on both days, but fortunately only a few random drops fell upon us. On Saturday, John & Marian Odh graciously made their property available for the breed survey in which 9 dogs received their KKL1's. Congratulations to club members Amy Schroedl and her dog Axel vom NeoHaus and also to Jim Castleton and his dog Maggie vom Bowne Haus both of whom obtained their KKL1's. Judge Fetten was impressed by the preparation of the dogs and sportsman-like behavior of the handlers. He also praised GSDCA-WDA certified helper Ray Silvertrust for his fair, safe and consistent helper work giving him the highest rating of excellent for his work. The conformation show went off without any hitches and Herr Fetten praised the dogs and the handlers while at the same time complimenting our club for the finely organized event we put on. Credit for this must go to Irene Clute, our field marshall, who led an outstanding team. Ed and Erin Irwin provided excellent food and refreshments on both days. The delicious chili and beef stew along with plentiful hot coffee was much appreciated by all as was the gas heater which Ed made available to stop spectators from slowly freezing. Ed, along with Jim Castleton did a fine job both days setting up the ring. Thanks also to Ring Stewarts Brian Mitchell and Herb Preiser, who also served as translator. And to Debbie Alongi who took photos and who along with Carolyn Kurt helped with registration. Among the many dogs taking part were club dogs, Shilo vom Melanchthon, Hoss vom Mittelwest, Goscha v.d. Ianhoeve, Heska von der Neuen Welt, Maggie vom Bowne Haus, Serra von der Neuen Welt, Axel vom NeoHaus and Santo von der Neuen Welt, all of whom turned in fine performances.

Congratulations to Irene Clute and Shilo von Melanchthon (pictured on the left with her handler Eva Landers) and to Ray Silvertrust and his dog Santo von der Neuen Welt (on the right with his handler Skyler Silvertrust just behind the first dog) for their good showings at the 2007 NASS which was held on October 12-14 at Purina Farms about 30 minutes west of St. Louis. Shilo received a VP14 in the 6-9 Month Old Female Class, which was a very strong class of 47 dogs. This was all the more impressive as she has had very little show training and did not know her handler. Santo, who was in the Working Dogs Male Class, received a V-4. He was the highest placed dog who had 2 American born parents. To see Santo's Sieger Show Protection Work & Show Photos, Click Here

Our autumn trial was held on October 7, 2007. We were fortunate to have with us GSDCA-WDA Director of Judges, Michael West as our judge. The very unseasonable near 90 degree heat with high humidity led to a long and difficult day for both dogs and handlers, but at the end of it, nearly all tasted success. Congratulations to club members and dogs, Duffy von Fenwald, handled by Brian Mitchell, who passed their SchH 3 and to Maggie vom Bowne Haus and Jim Castleton who notched their third SchH 3. Guests Steve Marfilius and his dog Greta and Melissa McCord and her dog Cade also obtained their SchH3s, while Mike Karlov with Jaeger and Fritz Gates with Rasko received their SchH1s.

Ed and Erin Irwin and Irene Clute did a marvelous job preparing our field and Erin's delicious lunch was much appreciated, especially her wonderful home made cookies. Irene served as Group Captain and insured that the Gruppe was always unobtrusively on the field as needed and brought us her tent. Judge West praised our protection helper Ray Silvertrust for his safe, fair and consistent handling of the dogs and for his work on this extremely warm day.

Our summer trial was held on July 1, 2007. The weather was perfect, sunny and in the low 80's. SV Judge Herr Peter Pruehs, who hails from Wakendorf, a small town near Hamburg, Germany returned to us to officiate. Congratulations to club members and dogs, Kayla von Stoltz, handled by Tom Hackiewicz who obtained their BH and to Duffy von Fenwald, handled by Brian Mitchell, who passed their SchH 2. Guests Andrew May and Mary Wijas received BHs while Kathy Males, Melissa McCord and Steve Marfillius and their dogs Iro, Cade and Greta also received Schutzhund titles.

Our field was expertly prepared by Vicki Vaisvila, Vicki's brother Gene, Irene Clute and Tom and Lisa Hackiewicz. Herr Pruehs, as last year, was quite impressed with their job. Vicki prepared her usual outstanding lunch with her unmatchable Italian Beef and other sandwiches along with all the extras. As usual, we were fortunate to have two tents brought by the Vaisvila's and Irene Clute. Irene served as Group Captain and insured that the Gruppe was always unobtrusively on the field as needed.

Herr Pruehs praised our track-layer Jim Castleton for his professional job and also thanked Ray Silvertrust, our protection helper, for his spirited and fine protection work, giving him the highest rating possible, excellent.

Our 2006 autumn trial was held on September 16-17. The weather was excellent.. SV Judge Herr Klaus Ambrosius, who comes from the town of Augustdorf near Bielefeld, Germany was with us once again to officiate. The following club dogs obtained titles. Santo von der Neuen Welt, who was handled by Ray Silvertrust successfully passed their SchH3 and Duffy von Fenwald, handled by Brian Mitchell passed their SchH1, Cairo von Faehrich, who was handled by Ron Vaisvilla achieved an AD and Phoenix of My Bodyguard, handled by Irene Clute successfully passed the TR1.

Our field was expertly prepared by Brian Mitchell and Ron Vaisville and Herr Ambrosius commented that it was always a pleasure to see such a professional setup comparable to that of the best clubs he judges at in Germany. After our protection work was complete, Herr Ambrosius praised our certified regional helper Skyler Silvertrust for his excellent work which he called "on a par with the best of them in Germany".

Larry Bzdon and Donna Wielert joined us for a very successful all-day hands-on clinic where members and guests not only learned some of the finer points of these disciplines but also were able to get specific problems solved. It was so successful and valuable that we will surely have them again next summer. Thank you Larry & Donna!

Our summer trial was held on June 18, 2006. The weather forecast was for the mid 90's and thunderstorms. Fortunately, the Schutzhund weather gods interceded and though it rained, the temperatures remained in the mid 80's. Our SV Judge was Herr Peter Pruehs who came from a small town near Hamburg, Germany to officiate. From among our club members and dogs, Santo von der Neuen Welt, handled by Ray Silvertrust, received a SchH 2. Guests Jim Castleton, Mary Wijas and John Odh also received Schutzhund titles.

Ron and Vicki Vaisvila prepared our field to such a high standard that Herr Pruehs compared it to the kind of work he has seen at German Regional Championship Trials. If this were not enough, they served us an outstanding lunch of Italian Beef and Turkey sandwiches along with all the extras. Once again, we were fortunate to have the Vaisvila's tent along with a second one loaned to us by Irene Clute. These really came in handy because of the rain. Vicki also served as Group Captain and insured that the Gruppe was always unobtrusively on the field as needed. Ron and Lara Manipol worked hard to prepare the field but also assisted with lunch and a myriad of other tasks. After competing in tracking, Brian Mitchell raced back to the field so that he could help for the rest of the day. Irene put in a long day serving as Trial Chairperson and Herr Pruehs thanked her for insuring the smooth running of the trial from start to finish.

Larry Bzdon, our track-layer, went beyond the call of duty coming to our aid during a last minute emergency to insure we had the best tracking terrain that we could under the circumstances we encountered. His track-laying left nothing to be desired and received high praise from Herr Pruehs. Once again Skyler Silvertrust, our protection helper, received the highest rating possible from the trial judge. Herr Pruehs thanked Skyler for his "straight-forward and convincing performance," praising his clean and fair work.

In addition to our club members, guests Rob Wijas and Vicki's brother Gene were on hand to help with the heavy lifting and many other tasks and, we are very grateful for this help. In his closing remarks, Herr Pruehs thanked us for our invitation and remarked that it was one of the best run trials he had seen in his 26 years as an SV judge. Such a result would not have been possible without the help of our club members and our other friends.

On May 28th 2006 at the Stateline Schutzhund Club conformation show with SV Judge Helmit König, Cairo vom Fahnrich earned an SG3 taking third place in his classs, the 18-24 month old males. Quarta vom Haus Miller received an SG rating in the 12-18 Month Females Class. Quarta is owned by club member Dr. Roger Torres. Santo von der Neuen Welt received a V rating in the Working Dog Males Class.

On May 6-7th 2006, Topline GSD Club held their annual conformation show and breed survey with SV Judge Rudiger Mai. Quarta vom Haus Miller received an SG rating in the 12-18 Month Females Class. Quarta is owned by club member Dr. Roger Torres. Santo von der Neuen Welt received a V rating in the Working Dog Males Class. One of Santo's sons, Winston von der Neuen Welt, received the VVP rating in the 6-9 Month Males Class. All three dogs were expertly handled by Skyler Silvertrust. Santo was also surveyed for the first time and received the highest rating Kör Klass One (KKL1) recommended for breeding. In his critique, Herr Mai said that Santo was especially useful for females to improve firmness. Herr Mai described Santo as medium size, powerfully and tightly built, with high withers, good front and rear angulation, firm back, strong bones, an expressive masculine head with a very good ground covering gait with powerful rear transmission.

Our autumn 2005 was held on November 25-27, 2005 over Thanksgiving weekend in temperatures several degrees below normal but this did not interfere with what was one of our best trials ever. Many thanks to SV Judge Herr Klaus Ambrosius who came from Germany to officiate. A lot of hard training paid off. Brian Mitchell and his dog Duffy vom Fenwald received a BH and an AD, Ron Vaisvila and Cairo vom Faehnrich obtained their BH and Santo von der Neuen Welt, handled by Ray Silvertrust, got a SchH 1.

The trial ran smooth as butter in no small part due to the hard work of our membership. Special thanks to Vicki Vaisvila who served us a tasty lunch and to Ron Vaisvila who helped set up the grounds. The Vaisvila's tent along with a second one loaned to us by Irene Clute gave the grounds the professional look one often finds in clubs in Germany. Thanks also to Irene who served as a tracking and field supervisor, to Kevin Walsh, who did fine work as a field supervisor, and to Brian Mitchell who spent a lot of time setting up and taking down. Hats off to Larry Bzdon our track-layer and to Skyler Silvertrust our protection helper! After watching Larry lay tracks for our SchH 2 and SchH 3 entrants, Herr Ambrosius commented it was clearly the work of a professional. He also praised Skyler for his very fair and clean helper work and noted that each dog was treated in exactly the same manner. He told the spectators that it was equal to the very best club helper work in Germany.

On September 24, 2005 Santo von der Neuen Welt, expertly handled by Stephanie Preiser, took first place in the Open Class under the purview of SV Judge Richard Brauch. Judge Brauch commended Santo and noted that "he is a dog with a dynamic gait, the kind of dog we see toward the front in Germany. It is nice to see such a dog bred in the United States."

On September 17th, 2005, the Chicago Schutzhund Verein hosted a Helper Recertification Event at which three helpers took part: Skyler Silvertrust and Ray Silvertrust from Chicago Schutzhund Verein and Andy Behm from OG Wisconsin. National Level & Teaching Helper Steve Beal chaired the recertification. After a seminar and examination on the current trial rules, the helpers took to the field where they worked Schutzhund 1 and 3 routines on dogs they had never seen before. All three were recertified. Steve made a note of praising Skyler's work and said that with some more work he could be a regional level helper.

On July 16, 2005, Santo von der Neuen Welt took 1st Place in his class under SV Judge Dieter Oeser at the USA North Central Regional Conformation Championships in Spring Green, Wisconsin. Expertly handled by Skyler Silvertrust, Santo hails from the famous Neuen Welt Kennels of breeder and club member Dr. Herbert Preiser. A picture of Santo appears below

Also at the USA North Central Regional Conformation Championships, Quarta vom Haus Miller won 3rd place in a strong class of 3-6 Month old females. Quarta was shown by Skyler Silvertrust and is owned by Dr. Roger Torres.

On the afternoon of June 24, 2005, despite a temperature of 97 degrees, Santo von der Neuen Welt passed his BH examination under SV Judge Gunter Schwedes at the Topline trial.

Santo von der Neuen Welt took 2nd Place in his class (2 Year Old Untitled Males) at the 2005 GSDCA-WDA Midwest Regional Conformation Championships in Union, Illinois on June 25, 2005 under SV Judge Gunter Schwedes. Santo was handled by Skyler Silvertrust who received high praise from Judge Schwedes for the nice job he did.

Also at the 2005 Midwest Conformation Championships, Cairo von Faehnrich took 4th Place in his class (9-12 Month Old Males) amid a large and strong field. Cairo was handled by Vicky Vaisvilla and is owned by club members Ron and Vicky Vaisvilla. Vicky had never handled before but did extremely well.

Again at the 2005 Midwest Conformation Championships in the same class, just behind Cairo in 5th Place was Duffy von Fenwald who was very nicely shown by 15 year old Colm Mitchell, son of club member Brian Mitchell. Colm, a first-timer in the show ring, did a marvelous job with a very energetic Duffy which certainly contributed to Duffy's fine placement.

On October 31st, 2004 at the USA Sieger Show in Nashville, Tennessee, judged by Erich Orschler the SV Vice President, Santo von der Neuen Welt finished SG4 (4th in the U.S.) in a very strong field. But the judge in giving his critique said, “This dog could have come much higher today if he had had more show training."

Santo von der Neuen Welt obtained his AD (Ausdauer Prufung / Endurance Test) at the Bur Oak Trial on October 2, 2004 under SV Judge Jurgen Hess

On September 18, 2004 SV Judge Hans Joachim Dux awarded Santo von der Neuen Welt first place in the Young Dog Class in a strong field which included dogs from the Mittelwest and Dreieck Kennels. Dux commented on the way Santo had an effortless ground covering stride.

On June 26, 2004, Santo von der Neuen Welt won again. This time at the Topline Club Conformation Show in the Young Dog Class (18-24 Months) under the watchful eye of SV Judge Morton Goldfarb. Santo, who again was shown by Skyler, beat off a strong challenge from the Midwest Young Dog Vize-Sieger, Janosch vom Haus Schwerzel, son of the top German V dog Chuck van der Lust. After praising Skyler’s presentation of Santo, Goldfarb said Santo was able to win not only because of his conformation but also because of his fine conditioning and powerful back thrust gating. His final comment was, “This is the kind of dog we are looking for.”

On May 9, 2004 at the GSDCA-WDA Midwest Conformation Championship, Santo von der Neuen Welt became the Midwest Youth (12-18 months) Sieger (1st Place). Santo beat out a strong field which included dogs from the famous Mittelwest, Von Stronje and vom Trompetersprung Kennels. Expertly shown by Skyler Silvertrust, Santo beat off a challenge by a son of Larus Batu, the current World Sieger. Though up against some great dogs with professional handlers Skyler coolly kept the situation under control. SV Judge Renee Ruden, President and Breed Warden of the German Shepherd Dog Club of Switzerland praised Skyler for his fine job. Santo was bred by club member, Dr. Herbert Preiser DVM, whose Neuen Welt Kennels have produced many top dogs. A picture of Santo appears below.

The Chicago Schutzhund Verein is one of the few clubs in the U.S., with 2 helpers who have been certified as Club Helpers by the German Shepherd Dog Club of America Working Dog Association. (GSDCA-WDA) Club founder and training director Ray Silvertrust and his son Skyler were both certified at the end of 2003 after a rigorous 2 day examination of their knowledge and their physical skills under the watchful eyes of Rainer Voortman and Mike West. Voortman is a top German Bundessieger competitior and SV Apprentice Judge. West is a GSDCA-WDA and Police Association Judge.

Ray’s certification comes as no surprise since he has done this work for a long time. Not only has he studied with well-known teaching helpers in the U.S. and Germany but he also served as Chief Helper for the Illini-Badger and Greater Chicago Schutzhund Clubs. At the latter, he was also training director. He has trained a number of helpers from other clubs some of whom have also gone on to achieve their certification.

At the time of the examination, Skyler had been studying with his dad for over 2 years and had already successfully served as a trial helper. His work received high praise not only from Voortman and West but also from several well-known national-level helpers. Voortman called him a “natural.” Skyler is the youngest certified helper in the U.S.

Marro von Alpenhof won first place at the Sun Prairie Club’s 2003 Summer Conformation Show under SV Judge Thomas Teubert in the 3-6 Month Puppy Class Males. Shown by Ray Silvertrust, Marro beat out a nice son by 1997 World Sieger Lasso von Neuen Berg. Marro is owned by club members Mila Aronov and Viktor Dubovsky.

Treue Grafin von Flusswald, SchH1, shown by Skyler Silvertrust won first place at the Sun Prairie show in the Veterans Class Females. Treue was 8½ at the time. She had previously won an SG1 rating under SV Judge Horst Knabe in the Young Dog Class and an SG rating for untitled females over 2 years at the 1998 North American Sieger Show under Knabe and later again under SV Judge Hans Peter Rieker.

Several old-timers (dogs) won titles at our November 10th, 2002 trial under SV Judge Jurgen Hess. Treue Grafin von Flusswald received her SchH 1 with high in tracking. Aiko von Hile-Haus, a youngster also got his SchH 1. Lido von der Neuen Welt passed Level 1 in Tracking and Protection and Rudi Graf von Flusswald, at the young age of 10½ passed his SchH3/IPO3.

In March of 2001, the Chicago Schutzhund Verein was founded by four individuals: Raymond Silvertrust, who had previously founded and served as president of the Greater Chicago Schutzhund Club and been a member of OG Kirchdorf in Austria as well as the Illini-Badger Schutzhund Club where he had served as chief helper. He was and is a member of the SV, the German Shepherd Dog Club of Germany as well as the German Shepherd Dog club of Austria, the SVÖ and also the German Shepherd Dog Club of America. He served for many years on the executive board of the German Shepherd Dog Club of America Working Dog Association, the GSDCA-WDA. Second was Dr. Herbert Preiser, longtime member of the SV and one of the most renowned breeders of German Shepherd Dogs in America, His von der Neuen Welt Kennel produced many top GSDs in Schutzhund Sport and conformation over more than five decades. He had founded the oldest schutzhund club in the U.S., Northern Illinois Schutzhund Club, and had brought the sport back from Germany in the early 1960s where he had studied veterinary medicine. Third, Charles Carroll, who had trained with the Illini Badger Schutzhund Club and at the Greater Chicago Schutzhund Club. And Skyler Silvertrust, Raymond Silvertrust's son. The Club was registered under the laws of the state of Illinois as a not for profit organization, whose purpose was and is the training of German Shepherd Dogs.