>>Imagine if MS was based in Canada and it issue this eligibility part :-) I'm sure that the Parti Quebecois will jump on it.
>
>Yes, it would be interesting.
>
>More information about this can be found from the Visual FoxPro Excellence Awards thread of last year.

This is not in defense of MS in any way shape or form!
I see a few possible reasons---

1. The guy in charge of the contest is an Anti Parti Quebecois and is getting back at the providence for putting Canada thur all the stuff that has gone on.

2. The guy in charge is a true blue fox guy and is getting back at you for starting to promote the VB forum.

3. You really ticked them off last year.

I think I would talk to the government and find out where this contest falls in their guide lines and what it really takes on MS's part to include your fair providence. You may find out that you would not go thur the hassle if you were running the contest. If, on the other hand, you find out that it's no big deal you will have the facts to back you up when you do talk to them. If you decide to follow this route, let the rest of us know and I think most of us would back you up with emails or what not to the appropriate people at MS.

Good Luck

Jeff