I’m working on this year’s STC Southwest Regional Publications, Art, and Online Competitions, and today’s the deadline for entries. We’ve got almost 100, mostly art. The competition is great for the entrants, who get to showcase their work and get expert review comments and suggestions (for a nominal fee). And of course it’s great for our local chapter (those fees again!) But the surprising thing is how great it is for the people who get to do the judging. This year, we have 44 judges in 3 states. Not only do we get to see the best of the work that our colleagues are doing, but we also get to work on teams with other expert judges. We may not always agree–and that’s one of the judging rules, that we have to come to consensus within our teams for award levels–but it’s a terrific networking opportunity, and always lot of fun!