I would say that the best post contests were a great idea. Perhaps having a recurring one (say quarterly) or a theme based one (Like, Make the case for _____________).
Other options are to ask a question, best post to answer the question (not in debate form, essay form if you will) wins by acclamation.
Head to head debates where the participants puts up some cash and then they go at it. Winner can take all, or it can be payed out via percentage based votes....... If the participants are putting in some cash, then that takes some of the $$$ heat off of Jimmy and it ensures an all out effort.
Of course today was just over 12 hours, 5 windshields, and 400 miles of route driving. I could just be shell shocked.
I'm Phil -- 40 something heterosexual white male, fairly self sufficient, great with my kids, wed 29 years to the same woman, and I firmly believe that ones actions have logical consequences. How much more out the box can you get nowadays? -- MSgt of Marines (ret)