I have the dubious distinction of being the first speller eliminated. In fact, by the time I woke up this morning (less than 8 hours after the contest officially began), two members were already deciding whether to give me clemency for my error. I know this must be shocking to everyone but yes, they gave me the thumbs down and I received the guillotine (now I know the Scarlet Pimpernel is a myth). Anyhow, here are my tips for those who are still alive (virtually everyone). 1. Don't post in the Hangout BBS. This is a death trap. There are more spelling snipers here than policemen in a doughnut shop (This is my universal analogy for anything crowded). Not only do we have to deal with the locals, there are international spelling snipers from distant lands such as Australia, New Zealand, and even Beaumont. Hide in the classifieds forum - the Siberia of the Clutch BBS. 2. If you do post in the Hangout BBS, do so in some innocuous topic - "Favorite Ice Cream Flavor That's Not Neapolitin" Chocolate No, that's Neapolitin. DO NOT POST in a political discussion thread. This is where all the smart people post. These people play scrabble and such, and read the editorials - test them at your own risk. Don't say I haven't warned you. 3. Be as concise as possible. Surviving is more imprtant than being right. Answer everything in as few words as possible and use simple words. Don't try to act smart. You're not smarter than them - especially those in the Political Threads - Second Warning. If you post in a Thread labeled: Big Brother 2 - Better than Real World, do not mention Orwellian or anything like that. They will catch you. 4. Watch out for anyone who doesn't mention Yao Ming in their posts. These people arent really Rocket fans. They're just here to get you. Everyone knows you cant be a Rockets fan unless Yao Ming is in every one of your posts - especially if he's getting unjustifiably crucified by some writer in Phoenix. 5. Don't test the rules. Leave nothing to interpretation. These guys are mean. Its like instant replay in the NFL. Unless there's clear irrefutable evidence, the ruling on the field stands. And guess what, if there was clear irrefutable evidence in your favor, you wouldnt be challenging anything. And don't use symbols. We all know the official curse symbols are !@#$%^&*. if yyou switch these around, you might get killed. One last piece of advice - Don't post in the political threads... last warning.
6. Don't post when tired. If you are tired, go to bed. Remember, I'm a shift worker, and will be awake and on the board all night. BTW, only cowards run from the Hangout. A true spelling survivor continues to post here, or even increases his posting here.
Ok, he's also the one who created the "Official spelling contest kill thread". He's baiting you. Don't fall for it.
