Gentlemen
Your reasons for crumpling the bib has some validity but there is a USATF & IAAF Rules against it (USATF rule 143.4)
There are several reasons for the rule:
1.To be as visible as possible for the offcials, announcer and spectators.
2. To give appropriate exposure to the event name and/or sponsors (if printed on the bib).
As you get to higher profile and more competitive events you will see that the officials take this very seriously. At the top meets there is a Call Room Referee (should be at every meet)who checks that the number is not folded or crumpled. They will also check for inappropriate jewelry or body art.
In addition, the meet/race director & sponsors will be more willing to invite you back (especially if you are getting apperance money) if you play the game and show off their logos.
We all need to buy into the sponsorship/marketing game. Be nice to the sponsors - without them we have very little.