Have there been any announcements regarding who is in charge of running the masquerade this year? I know there was talk of the old team (2012 and prior) coming back, though I don't know if that was ever confirmed. Does anyone have any updates? I know, at least for my group, it is the primary factor in whether or not we participate again this year.
I think everyone else has already noted the bulk of the problems, and more eloquently than I am able to muster at this point. I don't know where exactly to place the blame but I truly hope that Fanime takes note of our concerns because I know that many cosplayers (myself included) will not be returning unless there are DRASTIC changes made to regain our trust and respect in 2014. There is a LOT of work to be done.
On a positive note, thank you for offering cash prizes this year. It was a nice gesture and definitely appreciated.
I agree with what everyone else has said. I think the trophies are really wonderful and I hope they are still available in the future, but everything else is not worth giving out. I think all of the groups would have been happier with a simple ink-jet award certificate, than a bag full of trash from 2002. Not to sound ungrateful, but it cheapens the quality of what is otherwise one of the best masquerades in the country.