Hey BTB Community,
As we head into a new football season, and with a preseason game tonight, now is a good time to remind everybody about the community guidelines we have in place at BTB. Ever since I started this blog back in 2005, I've always wanted it to be a place where Cowboys fans could gather and discuss their favorite team, but do it in a civil atmosphere. I never wanted it to become a cesspool of language, trolls and flame wars that have plagued so many online communities. So far, I think we've done a very good job of that, but we must remain ever vigilant.
In that spirit, I want to formally introduce our moderation team that has been working behind the scenes. This five-person team has my full trust and confidence, so they act as an extension of me and work tirelessly to keep BTB a fun place to discuss Cowboys football. Please give them the respect they deserve as they moderate the comments.
They are: fernie67, scottmaui, One.Cool.Customer, rabblerousr, and KD drummond. I've discussed with them in detail how to moderate the comments and what is acceptable and unacceptable behavior on the blog. They have the authority to enforce these rules, but in all cases will try to act with civility and understanding when they do.
Everybody please continue reading below the jump, this is a very important issue...
You can make the moderation team's job, and my job, much easier by simply following the community guidelines. They are linked in this article and they are always available towards the top of the right-hand column. Let me give a short outline:
1. No hard profanity. F-bombs and s-bombs and the like will get your comments hidden, and lead to warnings and bans. This one is so easy to follow, just don't do it please.
2. No personal insults. You can disagree with someone, and debate topics to the end of time, but discuss the message of what you disagree with, not the messenger.
3. Stay way from hot-button issues like religion and politics. There are plenty of forums on the Internet for discussion of issues like that, but this isn't one of them.
We have a great community here, and it's been that way because most everybody follows the rules. Members who have been on the blog for a while usually help us with newbies who "get out of line", and they quickly correct their course. If you find something on the blog that is offensive or crossing the line, you can flag it and we'll take a look at it. You can also email me or OCC, and we'll look at it.
Big issue: In the open game threads, emotions can run high, especially when the real games start and something doesn't go the Cowboys way. Don't start dropping profanity in those threads, or intentionally goading other members into arguments. The moderation team will be active in those thread. Just take moment and breathe before you go off on a rant.
For the most part, we have an excellent community that generally follows the guidelines. I want to thank everybody for doing that, it makes this site a great place to hang out. We'll continue to make it an accepting place where people can rationally discuss football and the Cowboys. Your cooperation is appreciated.
Thanks,
Dave