My @nsccshow I would imagine is unique compared to others. But, that doesn’t mean I don’t look and make observations. My main objective, and successful one, is to meet as many people as possible. Here are my pros/cons from this year’s National: PROs: • Energy: The hobby is alive and well. This was the busiest National that I’ve attended and it was a very good thing to see. Conversations were had, cards were flowing, and the hobby is growing. • Familiarity: Chicago (Rosemont) is an excellent place to hold this large show. It’s been great from an attendee perspective to have it in the same place. You know the route, where things are, and know the staff are doing what needs to be done. It makes the experience that much smoother. • Security: I would imagine at any one time there were BILLIONS of dollars in cash and cards in that building. Security was present, and I’m not talking about walkie talkies, I’m talking uniformed police walking the floor. It was nice to see that. • Logistics: It was cold in the building, and I don’t think many people minded. It created a comfortable atmosphere for most. The wi-fi was strong, with some spotty areas, but for the most part it was on point. The staff moved the lines quickly, and the early VIP check-in helped. • Activations: The corporate booths were always crowded and had something going on to attract people. Nothing was to loud or obnoxious, and it was a refreshing to see engaging opportunities. CONs: • Crowded: High energy is great, but it was crowded; too crowded. Many times you couldn’t get through from point A to point B. Not sure there is a solution to this, just an adjustment to make. • Same location: While I’m glad the show has been at the same place, it does create some staleness. Nothing changes other than costs, for example, parking doubled YOY. • VIP Space: This space originally was meant as a respite for many. Over the last couple of years it has turned in to a spot for people to set up as dealers at no cost. I don’t blame them for taking advantage, but it is taking space from people that just want to rest from the show. • Lines: I don’t have a solution to this, but the general admission line was out of control. Needing to be at a show multiple hours in advance to only stand outside a mile down the road is crazy. Something needs to be done about it to mitigate the stress. • Upstairs: This seemed like the most popular place, but you couldn’t get up there because of the consistent line at the escalator. If you did get up there, it was hot and crowded. The space wasn’t fully utilized and there were booths, including the main stage, that I thought should have been on the main level. The unused space could be activated for the individuals that want to set up their own sales spot instead of the VIP space, just a thought. Final impression is very high. This event will continue to grow. Our hobby is getting younger and there is truly something for everyone to participate. Thank you for another exciting year and I can’t wait to do it all over again.