Actually, I don't know anyone on this list more than just recognizing a SN, and reading a post of theirs now and again. All that being said, I can still say something about a few of them. I didn't participate last year, so this year I'll say a few words if it kills me.
Aemon
Gotta love Aemon's posts. See most of 'em on the Games Board, which more people ought to visit. Seems like a nice, funny guy, and his obsession with soccer must be unsurpassed.
Alfheim
Again, someone I don't really know, but from what I've seen, Alf is a good guy with a good sense of humor.
{Amyrlin
Once more, someone I don't know personally, but I've enjoyed many of her "Ask Amy" posts, even the ones I couldn't relate to. I think I was a bit too interested in the topics of some of them, though.
Arok Manok
He used to update the humor section. What's up with that? Nah, just kidding. One of the things (other than the obsession to obtain large quantities of wSE points ) that impressed me the most was how he stuck to his guns about his faith. Very impressive.
To all those not mentioned:
I wish I knew a lot of you better, and if there was anyone I left out, I'm sorry. This list gets longer every year, but I'm glad we do it.
I will try. Before surrendering to dreams or death, I will try.