Competition - feedback

[SuicideAnomaly]

Originally Posted by cornelsw

Bubble gum burps the next morning, not so fun... So I hear.

That doesn't sound overly pleasant.

Unfortunately, I think I've had a hangover at every show thus far.

[FrogO_Oeyes]

I'm trying to have an updated entry form ready for next weekend, and I know there were a number of suggestions for improving it. However, I'll be damned if I can actually FIND those suggestions now. The 2011 rules and entry forms, plaques, etc, can be found in the first few posts here:
http://albertareptilesociety.org...ht=competition

I expect the 2012 versions to be very similar, and I have already updated all the plaques [designs were updated in 2011, so I only changed dates this time]. Apparently some people had difficulties with the entry forms, so I'd appreciate some feedback on the 2011 form. As it stands, most of the information is needed, so I can't just "simplify" it. I may be able to make separate "youth" and "student" forms, but generally speaking, creating multiple forms is not a good idea. Fortunately, if I need to change the format of the entry forms later on, it should have zero effect on older entry forms, so it's never "too late" to make suggestions.

I have already made some adjustments and changes in wording, and corrected pricing to what I had either intended it to be in April, or what it SHOULD have been. Mainly, that means photo entries should have been $2, not $5.

The rules should be virtually unchanged except perhaps adjustment of wording for clarity.

I welcome offers or recommendations for prize donations and sponsorships, both large and small. Any such offers won't be collected upon until shortly before the spring show, so any commitments made early on would be appreciated in writing.

[Tanina]

I thought I'd share a small opinion for what it's worth.
I've competed twice in the TARAS competition (as well as many other venues in the past) and placed well both times. I found the entire experience to be a pleasant one and was very impressed with all the work that was put into the organization of such an event. I've been involved in many volunteer positions as well as sitting on several boards and can guarantee the fact that all those involved work very hard and unselfishly to provide a positive experience for others.
You should all be commended, both board members and participants.

I also wanted to make a suggestion with regards to voting and categories. This may have already been suggested or is in effect now but what about having a Fan Favourite category. An actual prize isn't necessary but a small plaque of recognition is always nice. It would have to be decided just who is permitted to vote but the recognition would go to that particular entry regardless of whether or not it had placed in another category. Voting is simple. The entry with the most votes not points wins. A method to control multiple votes by the same person would have to be devised however, in order to keep the numbers fair.

[DaremoAlpha]

I want to see "special brownies " at the meetings , that will drive up atendance.

[hobolyra]

To lazy to say much, but I will say that the contest needs either better wording or working one way or another. I somewhat agree with OP about some of the things brought up.