>>>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
>
>I do not disagree with the need to recognize, just with inclusion of this "community rep".

I think they did that because there was a perception that the award was given among a small group of old pals.