2008 Finley Award Winners

....I suspect it was deleted because Grant was advised that failure to do so may result in legal action. Whatever the reasons, it has nothing to do with the ITA. Grant, could you clarify? If you're referring to this thread, read on anyway. I suggest you seek clarification before you dump on the ITA. Given the ITA seems to be the blame for everything bar the Global Credit Crisis (and I'm sure there is a Walter or two who is working to prove a link) the question needs asking - If you think the ITA is doing things wrong, what alternative structure would you suggest (practical suggestions only please), why aren't you volunteering to become part of the committee to see in your brave new vision for the community theatre future, and why don't you feel so strongly about your ideas that you are prepared to actually put your name to them? People complain that their "ideas" are dismissed or shot down by the "ITA" on this website, that they aren't taken seriously, that there is a clique conspiracy. For a start, the ITA doesn't run this site - any Walter can post (which is rapidly proving to be it's undoing). The ITA neither monitors or moderates any of the comments. Removal of any comments is solely the responsibility of the non-ITA appointed web administrator who is VERY loathe to delete anything as he believes it discourages free speech. However, seeing as you have spoken, how can ANYONE take you seriously if you aren't prepared to put your name to your ideas? How can anyone believe you're not just another faceless trouble-making Walter? That's your problem, not the ITAs or anyone elses. It was YOUR decision. Y'see what separates those who have identities behind their handle and are prepared to display them from the Walters of this world is that they seem (as a general rule) to be less inclined to fire off smart-arse one-liners. They seem to be the very people who actually put in and do the work in community theatre as opposed to sitting back and saying grandly "You're doing it all wrong!". So, here's a tip - want to taken seriously? Put your name up there in lights and make your argument cogent and constructive. I'll be the FIRST to defend you and your right to say whatever you want to.....as long as it's put politely, sensibly and you have the courage of your convictions. With regard that related thread, David Wilding had every right to say what he said....right up until he took an emotive pot-shot at someone. It wasn't needed - he could have made his argument without doing that. That was rude and it deserved the scorn it got and made everything else he said seem open to question. With regard your post - "clearly the ITA don't want feedback and constructive criticism" - y'see, emotive, incorrect, and unsupported. You didn't seek clarification, your suspicions are wrong because the ITA doesn't run the site, and it therefore makes you sound like you have an axe to grind and no real argument to bring. There are plenty of people here willing to listen to you - just ground your comments in fact, not fantasy. Seek clarification in need but don't get on your high horse and deliver a spray unless you've thought it through first.