At this moment, if we proceed the 'recognition of service' type Award is historical. Next time (if there is one) yes I
agree we should be concerned about the incentive effects which indeed could be negative, if we are'nt carefull.
But I dont see it as 'overly competitive' and striving for some excellence cannot 'hurt the community' IMO.
The point is we are saying "Thank you very much'' to an individual for his/her contribution above and beyond the norm.
That of itself does not devalue everybody elses input.
LW and your suggestion of a 'medal' type system has much merit. Particularly, I think if we invite nominations
and then poll for a short list, before the final 'medal' poll. Top voted 'medal' poll gets 'Gold' and so on ?
I like the 'Best Mission' category. Also we dont have to be too intense in all our choices, there is room
for a little light relief. For example maybe we could also have 'Best Signature ' (Or funniest
)
No reason why we should'nt award ' Most helpfull poster,' 'Most humorous poster' etc. Heck we can work it so that
everyone gets an Award if thats what you want.