[Epapazian]

I'll probably get shot down in flames, so I'm already slipping into my parachute harness as I type this. Anyway, here's the idea.

As a way to promote our hobby, why can't this forum host an annual online contest? We could set up categories for diecast aircraft and possibly, AFVs, such as these:

1) Best new model released by a manufacturer

2) Best repaint of an existing model

3) Best adaptation of one model into another plane or mark

4) Best repair or "fixing" job on a model

5) Most creative mode of display

6) Most unusual item in a collection

While it might be desirable to differentiate between scales, eras and types of planes or AFVs, I suspect that this would complicate matters to such an extent as to compromise the whole project. Also, I doubt that we'd get enough entries in every sub-category.

Entries for the contest would be solicited with provisions for the contestant to provide an explanation as well as pictures and members would vote to select one or more "winners" in each category. If possible, "sponsors", such as online or other sellers, might supply prizes in the form of free models.

I know I know. A contest would take some organizing, however, if we kept it simple we might have a lot of fun----and stimulate our thinking. It might even expand our membership by drawing in new blood. And, maybe, some of those manufacturers who pay scant heed to collectors---Hobby Master, aside-----might finally take notice.

So what do you guys think? Is this just an impossible dream?

[theodore]

Sounds like a good idea, E!! One suggestion is to put some stipulations in for assembled plastic model kits, pre-assembled plastic models, and resin/crushed stone models. For example, with number 3 below, 'Best adaptation of a model into another variant or mark", you might want to say, "Diecast only".

[SneakyPete]

So what's the prize for winning the contest? Dinner and drinks with Harry?

[Captain Eddie]

Originally Posted by SneakyPete

So what's the prize for winning the contest? Dinner and drinks with Harry?

That would be ONE way to go.......but I don't know........perhaps dinner and drinks with someone of the FEMALE persuation........(perhaps Harry could come along and keep our wife/girlfriend entertained)

[SneakyPete]

Originally Posted by Captain Eddie

That would be ONE way to go.......but I don't know........perhaps dinner and drinks with someone of the FEMALE persuation........(perhaps Harry could come along and keep our wife/girlfriend entertained)

Hmmmm...a rare bird, I suspect. I don't know if we have any female forum members, but I don't think this hobby has really caught on with the fairer sex.

[Epapazian]

Originally Posted by Captain Eddie

That would be ONE way to go.......but I don't know........perhaps dinner and drinks with someone of the FEMALE persuation........(perhaps Harry could come along and keep our wife/girlfriend entertained)

One prize is the collector's feeling of participation and, in some cases, of accomplishment------- however, I wouldn't ignore the possibility that an online seller might offer free models as prizes( or special discounts) to the winners. If, by some miracle, such an event was initiated by this forum, I can see it being emulated by the UK and other forums. The best new product release ratings---if they become a regular feature and get wider publicity---might really get the manufacturers' attention. This, in turn, might get them to start listening to us.

[SneakyPete]

While surfing through some older threads, I saw something about TMH t-shirts. That would be a nice prize...and will help promote the forum as well.

[jim]

Sounds like a fun idea to me, it will add something extra to the forum.

Yup count me in Epazian,

[ChairmanMilo]

I think this is a wonderful idea. Count me in.

[Cruver Collecter]

Could be fun.