I don't think "debate with the membership" is worded well.

I do think the current TalkBoard is, at times, too adversarial for my tastes. As a general member, it's OK for me to be obnoxious, adversarial, etc. especially when I'm trying to make a point. And I have been there and done that the past few years, mainly out of frustration towards the TB and the Mods at the feeling that "we're running this place and if you don't like it, too bad."

But as a TalkBoard member, I don't think that funny acronyms and smileys do anything but foster a poor relationship between the TalkBoard (and yes, when a TalkBoard member speaks he or she is not only speaking as a FT member, but as a member of TB, as well) and the people they are supposed to represent.

I would like to see communication be open. Whether it's TB Topics or whether it involves me as a TB member straying out into forums I don't currently visit trying to get a feel for the users' FT experience, I think it's worthwhile. I think the first thing that we need to do is be proactive when we see a user that is unhappy with the FT experience -- send out a PM and ask "Is there anything I can do?"

I see TalkBoard as so much more than a group that advises Randy. And even if it does just do that, TB members cannot sit back and wait for people to ask questions or complain. TB members have to get out within the community and look for opportunities to make a difference. And I will do me very best to do that, if I am elected.