LCNW Summer Regional Specialty

Saturday, August 16, 2025

The 2025 LCNW Summer Regional Specialty was once again held at scenic Nolte State Park. This year’s show followed the traditional LCA format, with written evaluations provided to every team entered. We were honored to welcome as our judge, Alida Greendyk (von Alpensee Leonbergers), a longtime Leonberger breeder, AKC Breeder Judge, and member of the LCA Judges Education Committee. Assisting Alida as scribe was Tobi Smith, who brought her deep knowledge of Leonberger structure and breed type to the role.

Alida and her family moved to the Northwest from New Jersey in the early 1990s with their Leonberger, Esia (a puppy from the Mary Decher Kennel, von Klingelberg). From the beginning, Alida was deeply involved in the Leonberger Club of America, serving on the Show Committee and Board of Directors. Here in the Northwest, she was instrumental in establishing our Regional Specialties, beginning with the first in 1992 at Lake Sammamish State Park.

Building on that success, Alida, along with Mary Decher and Glen Ferguson helped bring the 1994 LCA National Specialty to Carnation Farm in the Snoqualmie Valley—a milestone event that drew a then-record entry of 60 Leonbergers and about 125 people. Alida’s own dogs also made history, most notably CH Stjarnbackas Efriam von Poppel “Baloo,” who dominated the show scene from 1996–1998, winning every LCNW Specialty during those years as well as three consecutive National Specialties.

Having Alida return to judge our 2025 Summer Specialty was a meaningful full-circle moment for many of us—an opportunity to celebrate not only her expertise but also her legacy in shaping our Northwest Leonberger community.

We count ourselves very lucky with the weather! In the 12 hours leading up to the show, the park received over two inches of rain, following a stretch of unusually hot Pacific Northwest weather. Thankfully, the skies cleared just in time—our show day was rain-free, with sun breaks and mild temperatures that were perfect for our big, furry companions.

As always, our volunteers made the day run smoothly. Many helping hands arrived early to unload equipment, set up the ring, arrange raffle tables, and prepare the obstacle course. By mid-morning, everything was ready, leaving time to visit, stroll the 1.5-mile trail around the lake, or enjoy a refreshing swim before the noon start time. Exhibitors coming from the nearby AKC show joined us just as the ring was opening.

After judging concluded, volunteers once again stepped up to reconfigure the site for the picnic. The ring was packed away, tables rearranged, and the BBQ fired up while winners posed for photos. The day wrapped up with our annual club meeting, board elections, raffle, and potluck social. It was truly a day filled with laughter, teamwork, and Leonberger love—another specialty to remember!

A huge thank you to everyone who helped make this day a success—whether through setup, raffle and potluck contributions, running the BBQ, or lending a hand wherever needed. Your efforts ensured a warm and welcoming gathering for both dogs and people.

Thank you again to Judge Alida Greendyk and to all of the volunteers, exhibitors, friends, family, new puppy owners, and especially the Leos who made this day a celebration to remember! Your dedication and support made this event a happy memory for all!

Thank you again,
— The LCNW Board and Show Chair


Many Thanks:

From set up to clean up, our Specialty wouldn’t be possible without the incredible efforts of our volunteers and the support of the Northwest Leonberger community.


What’s Next? 

Block your calendar now for mid-August 2026: You will want to be a part of the fun with the oldest regional LCA Club. Watch for a Save the Date Announcement in early 2026. Happy Memories Made here!

All club activities are posted on the Events page or the Leo Walks page here on the LCNW website. You can also like and follow the LCNW Facebook Page.

Newsletters will continue to arrive at least once a quarter to remind you of upcoming activities you and your Leo(s) can enjoy.

Full Show Results