I have been asked to explain why users should vote on this poll, and I hope you will take the time to consider my viewpoint.

One of the main issues with new users getting into Gridcoin is that they need a starting balance to begin staking. Often this hurdle is the toughest part for new users, and as a result many turn to the pool, causing headaches for themselves later.

To me the IRPG channel was an easy way to get the 10 or so GRC I needed to send my first beacon. Sure, there's a faucet, but it pays out low amounts irregularly. The IRPG, by contrast, is a fun and reliable way for newbies to earn their starting coins.

Today a certain user who I will not name unilaterally took control of the IRPG channel and began handing out bans to users he considered to be cheating or inactive. I do not oppose banning blatant cheaters. If a user registers multiple accounts in the IRPG, by all means, they should be punished. My issue lies with the bans and kicks that were handed out to "inactive" users.

The whole idea of the IRPG is to idle (it's in the name!). Imposing a vague rule such as "users must be active in the #gridcoin channel" is very bad and frankly, goes against the whole notion of the IRPG. I will quote from the IRPG's website description (http://tew.sg/idlerpg/):
"The Gridcoin (cryptocurrency that rewards BOINC participation) Idle RPG is just what it sounds like: an RPG in which the players idle. In addition to merely gaining levels, players can find items and battle other players. However, this is all done for you; you just idle. There are no set classes; you can name your character anything you like, and have its class be anything you like, as well.
Oh, and guess what? You can be rewarded with Gridcoins too just for doing absolutely NOTHING!"

Does that sound like it needs active users? And by the way, what is an "active" user? Handing out bans to people just because they log on when you are sleeping is wrong and has occurred today. I ask as a member of this philanthropic and growing community; please vote for the newbies. Vote for the little guy. There needs to be a rigid rule defined, not some vague requirement that is up to an OP to decide. Demand that bans are explained. Demand that OPs are held accountable. Vote no on this poll!