THE RULES!

The Museum's rules are in effect all day - no exceptions.  We aim to make this an on-going event, so please let’s all be respectful of the Museum’s rules!  We are excited to have earned the respect of the Museum, let's not blow it!

• Winterblitz is neither an IPMS show, nor an AMPS show, but recognizes and respects the good points of both organizations’ judging standards and methods. We intend to use a hybrid system, predominantly based upon the IPMS standards.
• We will have 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place awards (nice medallions). Splits in all categories are encouraged. Models will be judged against each other in each category.
• Judging will be similar to the IPMS system, in that craftsmanship shall be the first and most important consideration, followed by finish and appearance, effectiveness of the finished model, and level of effort or difficulty…in that order.  Judges are free to interpret those standards as they see fit, but a consensus shall be reached on the judging TEAM in placing the models in a category. If the judges wish to use historical accuracy as a final factor, they are free to do so.
• Judges are encouraged to evaluate each entry for the build's positive qualities as opposed to nit-picking for flaws.  Judges are encouraged NOT to automatically eliminate a build based upon a minor flaw if the build is otherwise flawless. 
• The major deviation from IPMS rules is the non-emphasis of “story line” in judging dioramas. Overall quality of the diorama, in the judges’ collective opinion, shall determine placement within the category.
• Judging for this event will be by committee. Judges are at their own discretion for standards. Only in the Diorama Division will judges evaluate bases.
• Splits will be at discretion of the Head Judge and are encouraged.
• Head Judge manages the judges and DOES NOT participate in the actual judging of entries with exception to the Head Judge Award.
• We welcome ALL models.  Professional modelers (anyone who has in the past or is currently earning their PRIMARY income) from building scale modelers will be eligible to display their models in a "display only" designated area and will not be judged in the main categories or be eligible for a Best of Award.
• Proxy entries are allowed and are eligible for the judging at the discretions of Winterblitz. staff.  We reserve the right to designate proxy entries as "display only".
• The Winterblitz staff reserves the right to classify ANY model as "display only".
• Winterblitz is a drama free event.

• Lobbying for or against any model is grounds for disqualification of the offender's models...which will be burned on the table. Markings may be used to determine category placement, at the Head judge's discretion. 
• “Box stock” categories may only use parts provided in the kit. “Cleaning-up, accurizing, and clarifying” of the parts is allowed; however, no scratch-built parts, parts from other kits, or after-market parts may be used. The model's instructions must be on display with model. After-market decals are allowed. Seat belts and shoulder harnesses, as well as antenna wires can be added with the model and still be considered Out of the Box.
• Bases are allowed in all categories, provided that a “slice of life” or story is not portrayed (diorama); otherwise, it must be entered in the Diorama Division. Head Judge's call on this one.
• Handling of model will only be done by the owner of the model, Division Judges, or the Head Judge. Handling of model will be to a minimum for proper table placement and for judging. No killing the judge if the model is broken. 
• Sweeps are allowed!

We are not a club and therefore we are always boot-strapping.  Please consider sponsoring a category or donating a raffle item.  A little goes a long way.

We are seeking judges, volunteers, helpers, etc.  Also, have a suggestion?  Don't be shy, share with us!