anyone cam start a thread, if you want to start a comp.., why not.., its just that it doesnt have the same phsycological ummph that it does when it is a site hosting it. (and you cant give out medals )., and anyway, there is a challenge forum for just what you are suggesting,
but.., im sure Ragecgi would dig to hear your ideas.., Mike is, well the rumor was, he was going on honeymoon.., but he is probably taking maya with him .., getting himself into trouble with the missus already.., so he might be back soon.., (maybe thats why he's back at work already.., ???
i just looked at your camero.., i guy who can do that should be able to come up with some compositing and VFX, its planning, the road there is different for every piece of work.
take it easy and life will be easy