I like your idea"s, my suggestions....
1-4 Have one $50 buyin game per 4 weeks on a Saturday with chip stack and blinds as you suggest.
5. Why not have the sats on a week night
6. Obviously keen to have value added by sponsor
7. Nationals should earn more points than regionals and online events, because of the added prestige, also a $50 online is not comparable to a £75 live event. - Whether points system need to be looked at I feel should have a thread all of it"s own.
8. Not sure why we need a trophy, as top three already get a medals.
In addition I would also suggest a smaller online tourney also every 4 weeks say $25, for those with smaller bankrolls or those that want to play twice a month.
Look forward to other peoples views/suggestions
Benet