NOTE: Creditnet monitor

Creditnet monitor

Hello, Creditnet:

By way of introduction, my name is Steve, and I'm the new board monitor. I didn't want to use the "pbm" name ("primary board monitor") because of the many strong friendships the previous monitor established in that persona. Filling pbm's shoes just isn't likely to happen -- a review of his posts reveals his obvious intelligence, sensitivity, and just the right mix of hands-off and hands-on involvement. Although I didn't have an opportunity to work with pbm, I intend to review his prior posts closely because there's clearly no better teacher.

I do understand that recent events were very significant, and feelings understandably run high. If you're new to the board, you can probably skip the rest of this post except the final paragraph because the context just won't be there for you. (Of course you're welcome to read it if you like!) However, if you've been around Creditnet for any length of time, I want to speak directly to you -- sitting at home or work at your computer, wondering if the community can ever be restored. I believe it can, but I do fully understand that I don't have the power to make that happen. A community is built by its citizenry at large, not by its security guards. Sure, I have a role to play, but I understand that my role is a minor one when juxtaposed against what you personally contribute.

Let me begin with a few reassurances:

First, I want to assure you that someone is indeed monitoring the "Alert" button. Ensuring the integrity of this board is my goal. Anytime you feel that someone has appeared out of the blue with the single purpose of disrupting the board's free flow of ideas, feel free to let me know.

Second, I want to make a distinction between monitoring and moderating. A "moderated" board on the net has often meant that each message is essentially screened for appropriateness. That isn't going to happen here. This is a community of adults, and trust is an essential component. This board doesn't need a parent, nor does it need a moderator, nor does it need a censor. My plan is to reestablish Creditnet's longstanding policy -- which I understand predated pbm's tenure as monitor -- of fostering the uncensored free flow of ideas, even when the debate centers upon this board or even my own performance as monitor. Criticism, both positive and negative, is not only welcomed -- it's a desired and necessary component of any true community. Please know that I entered this role at approximately 2:15 p.m. Pacific time; I hope you will be able to see a positive difference in policy from that point forward.

Third, some disagreement and even angst must be tolerated here without censorship. There will be times when one person or another will rub someone (or me, perhaps) completely wrong, but that's true of all groups whether it's the boardroom, the teacher's lounge, the late-night dorm chat, or the family dinner table. We must be willing to metabolize a certain amount of outright disagreement and disenchantment. Just know that I'm willing to step in when things get so rough that the board's purpose is tested (as with the appearance of an obvious CA disrupter or the like).

Fourth, I've been made aware of a rumor making the rounds that Creditnet is considering charging admission to this board. The fact is that nothing along that line has been considered, nor does it seem like a good idea, nor is any such action like that planned or even on the table. It's not clear to me how this idea took life, but in any case it's not worth discussing further.

Finally, and most importantly, I want our long-term members to know that we value and appreciate your vital participation. It is truly you who have made Creditnet Straight Talk the incredibly helpful resource that it is. Kudos and gratitude are extended to Marie, Lizardking, George, LKH, breeze, Saar, George, PsychDoc, NanaC, dogman, marci, KHM, Nave, whyspers, Momof3, MP$40, DaveLV, fla-tan, Pat and so many others! (Uh-oh, I'll definitely start off on the wrong foot by leaving out a vital participant, so pardon the error!) You are truly the lifeblood of this community from the standpoint of both knowledge and fellowship here. A heartfelt thank you. To those who cannot return, I respect and understand your decision. To those who will, the door will always be open.

On that note, it is my pleasure to serve you, although my interventions here will be seldom. The focus is you and the important credit-related issues at hand.

Yours,

CCN steve

 

Re: Creditnet monitor

Thanks for the unexpectedly warm welcome. I wanted to clearly address something I inadvertently omitted in my original note.

The longstanding policy previously administered by pbm is back in place: Mentions of other sites are certainly allowed as are both positive and negative feedback regarding Creditnet or any other credit-related site or service.

Steve