I'm feeling a bit empty, here. Only $12k with 3000+ entries?
Apparently some folks kinda missed the spirit of this thing. It is a fund raiser for the less fortunate. This was an opportunity to give with a long shot of being rewarded for your generosity, not to reap benefits for nothing. I KNOW many folks donated more than $5 per, which means many more skimmed. At least 700 times. Friggin' takers. Took a good thing and F'ed it up.
I would be AMAZED if this was to be done again, but if by some weird circumstance it does, I'll pledge right now to double my donation. IMO, next time, make it a raffle. I would be happy to help with the administration of that.
Mods and Brian and everyone who donated $ or parts or time, I say good job. It was an honorable thing you did.
To everyone who didn't...
Sorry for the dark cloud, but this kinda stuff really gets to me.
I think we could do better, too, and I think we WILL next year. Get the word out earlier next year, and some word of mouth about this year's success, I'll be shocked if we don't double the take next time. For those who posted but didn't donate, let your conscience be your guide. I hope you feel like pond scum. How can you not want to be part of a project lke this?!?!?!?! Just think about the unfortunate kids that wil receive a gift this year because YOU donated to a good cause. I know I am going to increase my donation next year , too. For the most part, I am proud of this community. We can do better, myself included, but great job to all that participated! Especially you, Brian, you should be feelin really good right now, man.