As such, we insist that the following rules be observed
Be nice to each other, both in the forums and in meet-ups.
Respect each other's freedom of speech: disagree respectfully or say nothing at all, and no flaming.
No sexual harassment or soliciting.
Respect each other's comfort zones: if (s)he says you're making him/her feel uncomfortable, cut out whatever you're doing!
And as far as meeting in public goes, special rules apply
You represent Gaia and the guild, so obey the laws of the land and don't upset people.
Don't involve minors in activities that are dangerous or are sexually inappropriate.
Don't ignore, shun, condescend, verbally abuse, bully, or otherwise mistreat any participant.
Couples, please keep your ardor toned down: no inappropriate touching, petting, or lip-locking.
Strife is inevitable but once a disagreement gets heated back off; fighting will not be tolerated!
Any participant in a meet-up who is obviously intoxicated will be asked to leave.
If you wish to engage in illegal, risky, or romantic ventures, do so on your own outside of guild events. Use common sense and have respect, for yourself and others and also for the guild and Gaia as a whole.
While it's not the guild's responsibility to monitor your personal lives we feel the need to encourage you — especially female members — to exercise caution when it comes to giving out your contact information or meeting people outside of guild meet-ups. It's generally a good idea to restrict knowledge of your home address to those you feel you can trust and to meet strangers and new acquaintances in public during daylight hours and escorted by a trusted friend whenever possible. Read here for more helpful advice pertaining to this.
Active involvement is required to maintain membership
A minimum of three forum posts monthly.
Participation in at least three meet-ups a year.
Notify the guild moderators in the event something comes up that will temporarily hinder you from meeting these requirements.
Also, the guild forum has a structure to it
Main Forum (here): this pertains to questions about, advice on, suggestions for, and the actual planning of meet-ups. Moderators will also post pertinent guild-wide notices here.
The Chat Room: this is for idle banter, ranting monologues, serious discussions, just about anything not related to meet-up logistics or the administration of the guild.
Photo Album: pictures members, of meet-ups, or of our lovely City of Roses. Art can also be posted here.
Contests & Giveaways: official guild contests and giveaways are featured here, as well as those any members may choose to make.
Guild Feedback: ideas, criticisms, and suggestions pertaining to the structure, functionality, and administration of the guild.
Recycle Bin: threads and posts pertaining to past events will be moved here, for housecleaning and nostalgia purposes.
So, what happens if you break the rules?
Ever read Judge Dredd? Well, you should, because he pwns, but essentially in the far future the law enforcement of Mega-City One falls under the jurisdiction of Judges, who try and sentence on the spot — no more juries or attorneys.
We mods are pretty much that, and there is no hard and fast set of penalties because each situation has its own set of circumstances and repercussions. Plus, all we can do is warn and ban, so we're going to list the offenses that will result in an immediate ban:
Continual flaming, verbal abuse, and similar mistreatment.
Sexual harassment, stalking, and similar, in which also law enforcement intervention may be sought.
Bullying, fighting, or violence toward another of any kind, also with the possibility of seeking police involvement.
Intoxicated person at events who refuse to leave when asked.
We ask that members engage in community policing. If you suspect or witness or are the victim of anything untoward contact the moderators immediately! Or as soon as possible after the incident, and supply screenshots or pictures or witness testimony whenever possible.
