I'm still new at this but I think I can answer a couple of your questions.
Regarding the T-Tops I would definitely install them. When going to a concours judges will be looking for a car that is 100% complete just as it came out of the factory. Judges may ask you to remove the T-Tops during the event to determine if any dirt resides in the rubber gasketing.
As far protecting the front the only thing I can think of that might work is a bra but then you take the chance of causing swirls if the bra slaps around in the wind. Other than that just bring a bunch of cotton swabs, toothpicks and your favorite QD and make sure you get their early enough to get the bugs off.
I'd also like to know of any suggestions when driving to a show, I'm attending my first one this weekend.
Good Luck
