>>>>>>The "community rep" didn't represent me. Frankly I doubt any one would dare speak out against the judges, so that proves nothing. The panel is completely trustworthy and there was no need of a community rep.
>>>>>
>>>>>There's just no way to do something nice to recognize a lifetime of contributions to our community without making it political, huh? It's a wonder anyone sticks their neck out in this crowd.
>>>>>
>>>>>Doug
>>>>
>>>>Frankly, I thought including a " community rep" was a fantastic idea. Regardless, I think the results speak for themselves. Great choices! :o)
>>>
>>>I haven't been keeping up - who was the community rep ? ( just curious - choices were spot on )
>>
>>I have no idea. However, for transparency reasons, I really think the "community rep" identity should be disclosed just as the judges are each year. If the individual selected to be the "community rep" does not agree, then they can choose another community rep. It should be a condition of the role to participate in the voting process.
>
>Just to be totally clear, the standing part of the panel is YAG plus those who have received the award in the past. The community rep was chosen based on self-nominations and was disclosed when the community was solicited for award nominees. This year, it was Naomi (who was, in fact, the only community member to volunteer). We'll solicit a new community rep next year.
>
>Tamar

Thank you for the information. That is good to know. I thought Mike B was joking, but wasn't sure. Naomi is definitely a good representative of the VFP community. It sounds like the entire process is above reproach. I applaud you all for the process.