Generally I ignore what Board a post is in as I select unread posts and participate from there. I only go to the Boards if I'm looking for something specific or starting a new post.
I'm not really bothered what kind of member I am unless it bars me from doing something.
Someone mentioned scrolling through posts - you can set your options so the last post is at the top.
I think a Thanks button is a great idea.
I also think Dan is wonderful