I've often wondered how much of the shows and awards are acutally political. I took a class from someone who does lots of judging. During the class I asked her about how it works and if that is true.. She said that sometimes a well know quilter may actually get penalized...her work may be recognizeable and they may think it is great...but not up to her/his "par"...I don't know about her response on that...whether that actually happens. What you said Bella about the out of country quilts getting in over the American quilts...hmmm...something else to think about. I don't really need to worry much as I will just enjoy looking at them either way...MY quilts won't ever be there! :roll: