I know what OP was trying to do and I truly commend them for it. Unfortunately, as could be expected with a forum newbie trying to organize an awards ceremony based on historical data that only a veteran user would know from experience, this poll has turned out unimpressive to say the least.
Under normal circumstances I would just troll the OP, push them to correct their mistakes, and offer my assistance privately, but in this special case that the OP has refused to correct course I have decided to step up.
Feel free to continue to participate freely, but let it be known that BitTalk.TV is hosting our own awards ceremony that will be broadcast on BitTalk.TV announcing the winners. We are in no rush to hurry and for this reason we will allow a full
two weeks for entries.
Since this particular award thread seems to more focused on giving away bitcoins to anyone willing to participate than actually doing a good job creating a fair contest, we will focus on rewarding individuals the proper way.
To combat cheating, add value to the votes, raise money for charity, and ensure that only serious bitcoiners are participating in the contest as contestants or voters, a microtransaction will to a specified bitcoin address will be necessary. This amount will differ slightly for those nominating themselves.
All finalists of the BitTalk.TV Best of 2011 contest in each category will:
1) be published in the BitTalk.TV magazine's January issue;
2) be broadcast in a special presentation on BitTalk.tv;
3) receive a free year subscription to the BitTalk.TV magazine (est. $30 value)
4) receive a FREE casascius coin in the mail!
The categories will be soft-listed on the official forum thread. Feel free to petition for additional categories if you believe it is appropriate.
Good luck to everyone!
https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=56887