Table Talk • May 6, 2026

I just returned from South Jordan, Utah, where I attended one of my favorite circuits of the year. The Beehive Cluster volunteers do a wonderful job making all exhibitors feel at home, AND they have something for everyone. This time of year in Utah is lovely, and for a Midwesterner like me, the view of the mountains is always a special treat. With one day of group shows and four days of all breeds, it is a busy time at the equine facility at the Bastian Agricultural Center. This year, the entry averaged 1,000 dogs per day, which, in today’s standards, is considered an above-average entry.

With several well-attended specialties, majors were plentiful. The club does a terrific job of keeping things moving, and they include a Brace special attraction every day. The show began at 8:30 AM, and Best In Show was over by 6 PM. I cannot help but wonder how, with a 1,000-dog entry, these shows maintain a schedule like this when judges at shows half the size are pinning BIS after 7 PM. You should consider adding the Beehive to your show schedule next year!

It is hard to believe it’s time to start thinking about your hippie outfits. Yep, one of the best celebrations of peace, love, and dogs on earth is just around the corner. Woofstock is coming soon, my friends! This year, the show has relocated to the Yolo County Fairgrounds in Woodland, California. It’s a short 20-minute drive from the Sacramento Airport, and there are plenty of hotels in the vicinity.

 This year, there are over 30 independent specialties on Thursday, June 4^th, followed by three all-breed shows, which include over 80 designated specialties and supported entries.

Check the judges on the Canine Chronicle calendar, and you can find the premium list at Infodog.com. Get those entries in, my friends! Entries close on May 20^th. If you tried to submit online entries and had a problem with the Infodog website, please try again, as I am told the issue should now be fixed.

 On Saturday, June 13, 2026, there will be a celebration of life for Heidi Martin at the Skokie Valley Kennel Club in Grayslake, Illinois. Heidi was very active in the dog show world. She was a well-known artist, too. Heidi drew head studies and portraits for many breed standards, and you will see her work on club premium lists and catalogs. Anyone who wishes to share memories or stories should contact Pete Martin at 847-826-3684.

 The Fiesta Cluster will be holding its shows this coming weekend at Westworld in Scottsdale, Arizona. You’ll remember they previously held their shows around the Thanksgiving holiday. There are several specialties and a Toy Show on Friday, and two all-breed shows Saturday and Sunday. Westworld is a nice venue for a show, and I hope these new show dates help them grow in the future.

Thanks to everyone who responded to my query about attendance at national specialties, etc. The consensus was that fanciers would attend their national even though the judge may not be good for their entries. Individuals look forward to the opportunity to showcase their breeding program to the fancy, and a nice ribbon is always a bonus. There were a couple of individuals who indicated that they would attend weekday portions of their national but, in the past, have left to attend all-breed dog shows on the weekend if they felt it would be more beneficial for their dog.  It was uplifting that most of the respondents stated that the opportunity to learn and spend time with friends topped the list of why they attend the national specialty.

 Fanciers celebrating birthdays this week include Carri Beaver, Antoinelle Vulpis, Blai Lobet, Cassie Clark, Pam Lambie, Tim Lehman, Patrina Odette, Dylan Kipp Keith, Patrice Lawrence, and David Kirkland. Best wishes for a great year!

 A few words of wisdom from a breeder to fellow breeders and fanciers:

To those breeders who are striving to produce their best interpretation of the breed standard: Keep going. Stay disciplined. Continue learning. Share your knowledge generously. Collective efforts are what will ensure the future of this sport and the preservation of the breeds we love.

I’m off to the American Boxer Club, where I plan to bring you interviews with those fortunate enough to score a win among some beautiful dogs!

Wherever your travels take you, try to take a bit of time to enjoy your travels, and be safe! I will see you soon down the road. Until next time….

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Posted by Liz on May 6 2026. Filed under Featured. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. Both comments and pings are currently closed.