I've been competing for five years now. I addition I did a lot of show coverage for local New England magazines and E-zines.

In my opinion, the judging process has improved dramatically. There are new certifications and guidelines which shows like HIN use. Unfortunately, what couteracts these improvements is the politics of the circut and the high profile show promoters greed.

Some of the best shows I attended prioritized the fans over profit. These are the shows with more classes and bigger more impressive awards. Unfortunately some of these show have had a hard time returning because of the higher expenses.

Many of the successful shows, like HIN, have been so by shifting more of the cost to the fans and competitors. If you're an "out-of-town" competitor at one of these shows, expect to pay big $$$ cuz of hotels, display electricity, etc... The cheapest expense is the show registration fee itself, which normally averages $50. But electricity at the Bayside Expo Center in Boston will run you a minimum $220. Seriously...I've been there. The Boston fans love it there, but it's an expensive location to use, so HIN has to cut expenses, ie less classes and trophies, as well as have higher ticket prices and charge an astronomical amount for floor space to vendors.

Lastly, even with guidelines, judging is not perfect. Most judges are still influnced by personal likes and dislikes as well as the politics of the game. But I do beleive this problem has improved a little at the larger events.

Sorry I got wordy, but as a competitor a lot of this hits home. I love the shows...whether it's being in them, part of them or just at them.

As for HIN, I've met some of their staff before and I found them to be very cool. But they like the mighty dollar...so if your gonna suggest something that may cost them more money, you gotta back it up with a way to fund it.

Later...Jerry