In competitive areas it is always good to stay in contact with the staffers for the MOC. They will process your application, ours are very good about providing feedback, etc.
You won't get a nom with a substandard app just because of notes or showing up. But it is a chance to make an impression and be more than a sheet of paper.
I was surprised to have the staffer for the MOC DS was nominated by to mention him by name to us at a picnic sendoff. In our area they know the candidates which make the short lists far more than I realized.
Same is true for admissions events. Not required, but it's an opportunity for input, to show interest/drive, and to confirm it's what you want.
DS was added to NASS due to an interaction he had at an admissions event. No idea if he would have made it in otherwise.
Was added into SLS based on an email dialog with admissions. Without knowing it, he had been initially declined for SLS. But based on the interaction admissions changed their mind, told him when he got the decline letter to ignore it.
This does not mean you should bug MOC offices or staffers, but the various events an opportunity to be more than a resume.
