Our format for debates is based loosely on the Lincoln-Douglas Debate format, with the addition of an audience Q&A segment at the end of each debate. The reasoning for this is based on the belief that mainstream debates do not actually allow for in-depth discussions on complex and nuanced topics. With the inclusion of an audience Q&A, we also help to foster civic engagement. It is the amalgamation of these qualities that allow our format to best benefit the citizens of Lakeland and Polk County, by improving the quality of civic discourse and by actively nurturing civil engagement.