AMV_4000 wrote:I'm gonna a need everyone to take a step back and remember this is a hobby and it's supposed to be for fun. Contests are competitive and serve little reward other than other people telling you you're decent at your hobby. I know everyone wants this to be one thing or another but realistically it's hard/impossible to make everyone happy. Let's not get too worked up about this, I thought this was supposed to be fun.
I've said this before, I don't like contests and I think it's dumb to have a hobby and then ask to be judged on who is better at the hobby. Just Make Art, I know everyone wants to compete but if we split the community there won't be a contest to enter.
Jingoro, you've been amazingly patient with all our drama. On the surface we look all hot and bothered but I think underneath everything both sides of the same coin are actually hearing and listening to each other. But they just don't agree. And they're not going to agree because they both feel very strongly about their position. Which is fine, we're adults and we've proven we don't have to agree to remain friends (or at least most of us I presume?). Giving the participants the opportunity to suggest changes is commendable, but as coordinator you're left in a very difficult position because EVERYONE has an opinion, most with sturdy foundations, and they range on opposite ends of the spectrum. There is no one system that everyone will agree to happily. Some may even drop. Some already have. Some have even opt out of this debate itself because they're sick of it. But that's their choice and not something you should feel guilty about.
Based on all the conversations that have been had I think you've inquired enough information to make executive decisions. Someone has to lead. I know it's like herding cats but if we don't have one person (or two) in charge we'll all head off in our own direction. Everyone in this community respects you as a leader, so trust yourself to make fair decisions. I know you want everyone to be happy shiny unicorns but it's just not gonna happen. The best thing you can do is make the decision and tell everyone they can either get in line or they can get out.
