I do not know much about show birds, but if there are any shows happening, you might go talk with the breeders. I know the MO state fair is over, but maybe there is something else happening…you might search. Good luck, let us know what happens. Try this: https://www.poultryshowcentral.com/
Where did you live in NM? My daughter just got back from a camping trip in NE NM. She loved it, drove the enchanted circle, explored areas she might be interested in living. We are considering relocating because of ticks and alpha gal here.
I have an 9 yr old SS hen and she had less speckles when in the first year, and got more and more with each molt. I remember asking about it and was told this is what to expect.