DonielDoom
Mame
I think things are just on pause to iron out wrinkles and ensure no disrespect. It doesn't seem like @leatherback has posted since Monday. I'd imagine they're a busy individual. I know they run a Youtube channel and are very outwardly communicative with their knowledge in a positive way. The radio silence from them may be completely unrelated to this little mix up. I hope the silence is nothing more severe than being busy (life is crazy and unexpected). We can speculate, but based on prior community interactions both parties in the exchange are well respected and seemingly kind, reasonable individuals. I would suspect no ill will unless otherwise shown/demonstrated. I personally have not seen anything but passion, compassion, and respect, when I distill the situation.
The typical theme with these contests is to have an excuse to put some effort in on a project on a community level; a little competition and structure can be an excellent motivational factor. They seem less critical about winners and clout. Kind of a kick to build/create something and maybe even discover new information in the process. That said, I would encourage those interested in the contest to formulate plans and/or take action on other prep tasks, gather materials, review past contests, etc. There's clear interest in the raft subject and that's encouraging enough to start a project IMO.
I've also seen @leatherback attempt to foster collaborative study on various projects/species where there may be little information/experience. If there were intentions for such a thing in this contest, it may require some extra consideration to the rules. To ensure a closer adherence to a scientific methodology, for example. This is purely speculation, FWIW.
That said, IMO, the likelihood of the contest occuring after some space to iron out seems high.
I hope all is well with @leatherback and their world. @KateM I commend you for how you've navigated the situation; accountable, respectful, and gracious. A model of how we can approach our mistakes with ourselves and each other.
The typical theme with these contests is to have an excuse to put some effort in on a project on a community level; a little competition and structure can be an excellent motivational factor. They seem less critical about winners and clout. Kind of a kick to build/create something and maybe even discover new information in the process. That said, I would encourage those interested in the contest to formulate plans and/or take action on other prep tasks, gather materials, review past contests, etc. There's clear interest in the raft subject and that's encouraging enough to start a project IMO.
I've also seen @leatherback attempt to foster collaborative study on various projects/species where there may be little information/experience. If there were intentions for such a thing in this contest, it may require some extra consideration to the rules. To ensure a closer adherence to a scientific methodology, for example. This is purely speculation, FWIW.
That said, IMO, the likelihood of the contest occuring after some space to iron out seems high.
I hope all is well with @leatherback and their world. @KateM I commend you for how you've navigated the situation; accountable, respectful, and gracious. A model of how we can approach our mistakes with ourselves and each other.
