Q. How are the judges chosen?

A “call for judges” is sent and applications are submitted to the Executive Council. Judges are selected based on their experience and involvement in the credit union system.

 

Q. Is an award given in each category?

If the quality of entries in a given caterogy is not strong enough, no awards will be given.

To ensure the integrity of the awards, First Place, Second Place and Award of Merit will be presented only if the judges determine that the criteria for each category are met and the award is warranted.

 

Q. What is the maximum number of awards that can be given per category?

Up to 2 awards and up to three merit awards may be given in each asset catergory (most of the categories are broken down into five asset categories).

 

Q. How many entries do you receive, and how many awards are given?

The Lone Star Awards receive 250 – 300 entries per year. On average 180 awards are given.

 

Q. Will I receive a write-up from the judges with comments on my entry?

Due to the large number of entries received it would be impossible for judges to include a write-up with each score sheet.

 

Q. How do I calculate the results on the entry form?

Return on Investment (ROI) can be calculated using a simple spreadsheet provided by  TCUL Credit Union Marketing Resources. Many marketers also use MCIF software to  obtain ROI results. When in doubt, ask your accounting manager for help. Also note  that when results are required it doesn’t have to necessarily be dollars and cents.  Return on Investment (ROI) may be represented in number of people reached,  attendance at an event, or number of members responding.

 

Q. Do the entries have to be POSTMARKED or RECEIVED by TCUL by date?

Entries have to be received by Monday, July 19 to avoid a late entry fee of $25. If mailed after July 19 your entry must be received by Friday, July 23 to be accepted into the competition.

 

Q. Do I send the payment form to the same address as the entries?

Yes. Your entry along with payment must be mailed to Credit Union Marketing Resources Attention: Vickey Morris, 4455 LBJ Freeway, Suite 1100, Farmers Branch, Texas 75244-5998.

 

Q. Do I need to place my entry in a binder or mount it prior to sending it to you?

No mounting and no binder, unless category specifies binder is acceptable.

 

Q. How should I package my entry?

Depending on the number and size of entries submitted, you may package your entry in an oversized envelope or in a box. The most important thing to remember is neatness and keeping all pieces for each entry properly attached together with a clip. It is also recommended that you label pieces so that judges can easily identify all pieces that belong to your entry.

 

Q. Will my entry be returned?

Entries will not be returned; however, conference attendees are welcome to pick up their

materials (from all entries) at the end of the conference.

 

Q. Are winning entries displayed at the conference?

Yes. The Marketing Council makes every effort to display winning entries. However, display boards are not always available due to space constraints.

 

Q. Do I have to attend the conference to win?

No. You do not need to be present to win.

 

Q. Are the non-winners notified after the judging, as well as the winners?

Only the award winners are notified that they’ve won something by e-mail, but are not told what they’ve won.

 

Q. If I can’t attend the conference to receive my award, how will I receive it?

Your award will be mailed to you.

 

Q. If I can’t attend the conference to receive my award, can a representative accept it on my behalf?       

The awards ceremony is streamlined by matching the attendee roster. If someone from your credit union is a registered attendee they may accept the award on your behalf. Please contact: Vickey Morris (Credit Union Marketing Resources) at (469) 385-6471 or (800) 442-5762, Ext. 6471 to ensure that you award will be available for acceptance at the ceremony.

 

Q. If I can’t attend the conference, can I attend the awards ceremony to accept my award?

Yes. If you are unable to attend the conference, you must register to attend the awards ceremony only. To register, please contact Vickey Morris (Credit Union Marketing Resources) at (469) 385-6471 or (800) 442-5762, Ext. 6471 or e-mail: vmorris@tcul.coop.

 

Q. If I can’t attend the conference can a representative from my ad agency accept on my behalf?

No. The awards ceremony is intended for Marketing Council members and paid attendees of the conference only.

 

Q. Are all winning TV and Radio spots played?

Due to time constraints, only the first place winners in each category are played.