I have to agree that what one person finds funny or appropriate others may not. I guess I'm on the far side of "not funny". :(

Boys will be boys but please be a mature adult and think about what your saying. Like KiddKasper said

Quote by kiddkasper

From what I know and have seen, I believe that a PG-13 rating is still the best, although adhered to in general terms. I think the same etiquette that most people would use in public should be used in our guild. You wouldn't describe in great detail in public how you would want to molest somebody. But, you would speak in broad, appropriate terms. Then, in a more private setting, you'd use more specific language. The same should apply to guild chat. Innuendos and lively chat are fine. But, you wouldn't want out right lewd behavior. Of course, being hateful or disrespectful is never appropriate.

So, where is the line drawn? What I find appropriate, you might not...and vice-versa. It's a fine line that is constantly adjusted depending who the audience is. IMHO, people should clearly understand the Code of Conduct and be expected to adhere to it. Once that's done, I think the rest will take care of itself.

He's right on with this!!!

I'm not saying folks can't have fun and joke around, heck we all play mmo's to enjoy ourselves. We all like to get a little lively and have fun. But think about what your going to say before typing away. If someone asks for help or advice and all they get are statements like "its in my pants go find it" from guild members, how is this helpful?

I really don't want to see the guild fall into a WoW clone and where making derogatory remarks or unhelpful statements becomes the norm or is acceptable.

The Code of Conduct should be followed by everyone, not just a few.

Great Review! Thanks for sharing.

I have to say that, compared to the "rough around the edges" launches of WoW and STO, SW:TOR launched as a rather solid piece of software with minimal bugs.

BioWare will always have A TON of feedback to go off of towards the future development of the game. I agree that we should have speeders accessible for the ground as long as we're given an entire starship. I personally don't see that oddball arc staying that way permanently.

While some would call me a fanboi (and I really don't care xD ), This game has blown away all of my expectations.

It is so refreshing to play a new game that is so well developed at its release date.

MTFBWY!
Steve

Quote by kiddkasper

Quote by colivia

I believe there was a thread a while back on the STO side that dealt with guild chat guidelines (although it may have been on the Fleet Captain forum when I was serving), and I recall that the consensus was to keep the guidelines loose. When something REALLY bad is mentioned in chat the officers take action [threats, XXX-rated (not just innuendos), etc.], but otherwise its "boys will be boys." As previously mentioned, an officer will nudge the topic on if warranted, but during the days when we had a bunch of fleet captains, the "line" of what was acceptable widely varied from captain to captain (which will need to be addressed if the guild is going to continue that policy).

From what I know and have seen, I believe that a PG-13 rating is still the best, although adhered to in general terms. I think the same etiquette that most people would use in public should be used in our guild. You wouldn't describe in great detail in public how you would want to molest somebody. But, you would speak in broad, appropriate terms. Then, in a more private setting, you'd use more specific language. The same should apply to guild chat. Innuendos and lively chat are fine. But, you wouldn't want out right lewd behavior. Of course, being hateful or disrespectful is never appropriate.

So, where is the line drawn? What I find appropriate, you might not...and vice-versa. It's a fine line that is constantly adjusted depending who the audience is. IMHO, people should clearly understand the Code of Conduct and be expected to adhere to it. Once that's done, I think the rest will take care of itself.

I think you nailed it.

I just realized in my post I joked about folks rolling their eyes at me, well, most of those "colivia-isms" are done in private/party chat channels, not in guild chat.

Or as I have taken to doing, I have turned off guild chat on the chat tab I monitor, this way I will not read anything that might be helpful for some, but might inadvertently spoil for me. This was it is a win/win.

Quote by colivia

I believe there was a thread a while back on the STO side that dealt with guild chat guidelines (although it may have been on the Fleet Captain forum when I was serving), and I recall that the consensus was to keep the guidelines loose. When something REALLY bad is mentioned in chat the officers take action [threats, XXX-rated (not just innuendos), etc.], but otherwise its "boys will be boys." As previously mentioned, an officer will nudge the topic on if warranted, but during the days when we had a bunch of fleet captains, the "line" of what was acceptable widely varied from captain to captain (which will need to be addressed if the guild is going to continue that policy).

From what I know and have seen, I believe that a PG-13 rating is still the best, although adhered to in general terms. I think the same etiquette that most people would use in public should be used in our guild. You wouldn't describe in great detail in public how you would want to molest somebody. But, you would speak in broad, appropriate terms. Then, in a more private setting, you'd use more specific language. The same should apply to guild chat. Innuendos and lively chat are fine. But, you wouldn't want out right lewd behavior. Of course, being hateful or disrespectful is never appropriate.

So, where is the line drawn? What I find appropriate, you might not...and vice-versa. It's a fine line that is constantly adjusted depending who the audience is. IMHO, people should clearly understand the Code of Conduct and be expected to adhere to it. Once that's done, I think the rest will take care of itself.

I did not witness the transgression mentioned above in this thread, I am replying just to put in my two cents for the policy of censorship in general.

I believe there was a thread a while back on the STO side that dealt with guild chat guidelines (although it may have been on the Fleet Captain forum when I was serving), and I recall that the consensus was to keep the guidelines loose. When something REALLY bad is mentioned in chat the officers take action [threats, XXX-rated (not just innuendos), etc.], but otherwise its "boys will be boys." As previously mentioned, an officer will nudge the topic on if warranted, but during the days when we had a bunch of fleet captains, the "line" of what was acceptable widely varied from captain to captain (which will need to be addressed if the guild is going to continue that policy).

One other important difference is that on STO (where the fleet originated), the game itself has a PG-13 policy for every chat channel. The guidelines Stonewall implemented were based on that requirement.

On TOR, from what I read, The Jekk Jekk Tarr is a server where chat and character names are not moderated. So I'm not sure if it's fair to hold the TOR fleet to the same PG-13 standard since there is no "law" saying we must. I would think at a minimum this means the chat guidelines should be loosened up a bit!!!

I realize we do want some standards for chat, but the membership consists of mostly homosexual adults and requiring everybody to be politically correct and be abstinent from sexual conversations/jokes is just ridiculous. I believe we already found that trying to strictly police the fleet chat on STO was not effective or useful since it was only a small minority of players that were offended anyway. And since TOR doesn't have universal chat, it would require 2x the "boi"/"gurl"-power to do so (for each faction).

Almost EVERYONE I have teamed up with so far in this game makes sexual innuendos with each other and that is part of the fun! Granted, I can't see their faces if they are just rolling their eyes, but I would like to think it was consensual. :P

While I can only speak for myself, I have the most fun where members can openly express themselves in guild chat. I never know what I'm going to read and it's entertaining to see where conversations go and how far the envelope can be pushed.

Look, our guild is huge and will only get bigger. "The harder you grasp to please everybody, the more people will slip through your fingers."

It's a loose-loose for the guild: police the chat then folks will bail for other more "liberal" gay guilds. Allowing the chat to become raunchy (like Taint on WoW) will cause others to quit for a more clean environment.

I would find it interesting what the majority of the membership would prefer. Perhaps a poll or survey could be conducted before any blanket policy decisions are made?

Quote by Neilston

Van I call upon you to testify. Who are the "some really wonderful folks" and what is it that makes them so great for you? I am sure they would love someone to sing some praises for them. I encourage you to include them as positive examples and I cheer you on in your effort to make the guild a fun place to be.

Oh dear, hon I work with lawyers all day long and have to "testify" at company meetings or in front of management. But I think this testifying I'll enjoy. :)

I understand the pains of being an officer as I'm a guild leader in another mmo and have to go thru the same issues. I just handle them a bit differently then KoS does.

Please forgive me if I miss spelled the names. Also, these are just a few in the guild who stand out, there are others who contribute and make the guild a great place.

Syre - I can not tell you how many times I've seen this person stop what they are doing to help others either by crafting gear for them, leading them to Datacrons or giving helpful advice. Even when this person is on one of their toons they stop what they are doing and log onto the character that can do the crafting, leading or what ever. They are always very helpful and kind in guild chat. Truly a joy to grp with, guild chat with and see in game.

Darryn - OH MY GOSH! He has helped me with my smuggler I can not tell you how much I've improved. He's been so patient and understanding when the same questions keep popping up. He has also gone and helped folks with difficult mobs in quests and with figuring out stuff in game. A great guild member that I wish more where like.

Tycho (and alts) - I think he's headed to saint hood. I can not thank him enough for helping me thru those &%$#$%^& datacrons and all that $*#&*&#^$% jumping to get from one place to another. He's jumped on and helped folks with their quests, datacron locations and offered up advice in guild chat when folks get stuck.

Again this is just a sampling of the folks that I see going the extra distance to help out their fellow guild mates. These are the kinds of folks that I think strengthen a guild and make it a great place to come too.

Quote by Aldente

I would keep my eye out for a reasonable solution to the "picked-over thrift store" attire issue in the relatively near future. I'm not sure if it will be more along the lines of an appearance tab or a system of dyes or something else entirely, but I have faith that we'll be in a happier fashion state before I get my 8th toon to 50. :-)

Oh I hope so. This is great news!

Now if they will only lower the vehicle barrier, and lower the Bonus Boss respawn timers, that will deal with my biggest fixable complaints of the game.

With the release of Star Wars: The Old Republic, the New Year fast approaching, and a new Editorial staff, The Stonewall Times is gearing up for 2012.

For new members, or as a reminder to long-time members, the Stonewall community publishes it's own monthly, magazine-quality newsletter, of which you can find back-issues here.

We are hoping to capitalize on the undeniable talent of our fellow Stonewallers. To that end we are looking to add new members to the Stonewall Times staff. Some ways in which you might be able to contribute:

• Fanfic set in the universes of The Old Republic or Star Trek Online
• Art, sketches, or renderings
• News Article or Opinion Column about the games, mechanics, classes, etc.
• Screenshots from either The Old Republic or Star Trek Online (can be funny; show off an unusual bug/quirk; or just a beautiful shot that shows off the game and/or your character)
• News relevant to the LGBTQ Community

Experience is not necessary. As professionals in the Journalism and Publishing fields, Doogiegood (Editor in Chief) and I (Senior Editor and Layout Artist) are happy to help you develop and refine your writing skills through constructive criticism and suggestions if you so desire.

If you have any questions, or interest in contributing in any way mentioned above; or you have an idea of your own, feel free to send Doogie or I a private message, or email times@stonewallfleet.com or times@knightsofstonewall.com.

We'll see you around the Galaxies!

I think the issue last night was handled quite well. A newer member who had a less than stellar track record from their small time here was removed quietly and efficiently.

Also, I agree I have the tendency to ignore and/or not pay attention to guild chat. It's not so much that bad stuff is happening, but there is so much text going on at once it makes it hard to focus on the game. I personally like going into Vent to socialize, but that's just me.

Quote by Van

Neilston, I wish it was always like what you posted. There are some nights when guild chat reminds me of horned up 14 year boys who have nothing better to do then to add derogatory remarks when folks ask for help or they talk like this is some sex chat line. I mean really how many times do we have to hear what's in your pants or how big your "tool" is in guild chat?

Also, over the weekend there was some chatter about killing certain grps of folks because they hate that grp of individuals. I was really shocked to read this in guild chat and even more shocked at the support folks in guild chat was giving to this.

Yes I brought this up to an officer and got the standard - Screen shots are needed and then we will look into it. What where the officers doing who where on line at the time? I assume those listed as LT's are officers?

Yes these things are not being said all the time but when they do happen it can really put a damper on game play. To some extent I can ignore guild chat but why? Does the code of conduct apply to the guild chat channel? I think since the officers are inviting anyone to the guild those individuals might not be aware of this charter.

There are some really wonderful folks in the guild who are a joy to be with.

This expresses some of the concerns that I've had about the guild growing so larger so quickly. Yes, we want to be as inclusive as possible, but not at the expense of degrading the standards that so many have worked for so long to establish.

Having known most of the guild management for a long time, I can assure you that they address every serious concern that is brought to them. However, I think experience and an attempt to be fair now requires them to have things like screenshots in order to act fairly about things. Having been both an officer and leader in guilds of other MMOs, I can't tell you how important screenshots and other pieces of information are.

I don't know about LTs being officers. There's been a lot of discussion about implementing Fleet Captains again so if anything, I would say that LTs are low grade officers. As far as guild chat, I personally don't always pay attention to it and I suspect that others probably do the same. However, that doesn't excuse inappropriate behavior of anyone.

Perhaps it's time to remind all members, old and new, of the code of conduct and expectations that come with being a part of Stonewall. What do you guys think?

Please add Vice and Valor to the list. They are a LGBT guild on the Republic side.

Neilston, I wish it was always like what you posted. There are some nights when guild chat reminds me of horned up 14 year boys who have nothing better to do then to add derogatory remarks when folks ask for help or they talk like this is some sex chat line. I mean really how many times do we have to hear what's in your pants or how big your "tool" is in guild chat?

Also, over the weekend there was some chatter about killing certain grps of folks because they hate that grp of individuals. I was really shocked to read this in guild chat and even more shocked at the support folks in guild chat was giving to this.

Yes I brought this up to an officer and got the standard - Screen shots are needed and then we will look into it. What where the officers doing who where on line at the time? I assume those listed as LT's are officers?

Yes these things are not being said all the time but when they do happen it can really put a damper on game play. To some extent I can ignore guild chat but why? Does the code of conduct apply to the guild chat channel? I think since the officers are inviting anyone to the guild those individuals might not be aware of this charter.

There are some really wonderful folks in the guild who are a joy to be with.

But which one gives the most Dark Side points??? :lol:

Thanks guys. This is really great info!

Everybody raves over my Artichoke Dip, I am shunned if I go to a party without bringing it. It really wasn't my recipe to begin with, the only thing I changed was the addition of garlic, which makes all the difference! It's super easy to make.

Ingredients:

1 8oz can of quartered artichoke hearts in water (do NOT get the marinated ones!)
Approx 1 cup of grated parmesan cheese (can't go wrong with more)
Approx 1 cup of mayonnaise
3 to 4 garlic cloves
Paprika
Parsley Flakes
Cracker of choice (It's awesome with plain old Ritz crackers)

Directions:

Drain the water from the can of artichoke hearts and dump them out on a cutting board. Chop each quarter up into finer pieces, then put in a medium sized mixing bowl.
Add the grated parmesan cheese then peel the garlic cloves and put them through a garlic press and add to the mixture.
Then spoon in enough mayonnaise to hold everything together stirring it well.
Spoon the mixture into a shallow baking dish, spreading it evenly (I use a 9x2 square pan).
Sprinkle the top with Paprika and Parsley Flakes to add color (It's unappealingly white if you skip this, but this isn't a crucial step).
Bake at 350 for about 20 to 30 minutes, when it's bubbling you'll know it is ready.
Server with crackers while it's hot.

All ingredients can be doubled for a larger group. Just make sure your baking dish is big enough.


I emphasized not using marinated artichokes because my brother-in-law's sister asked me for the recipe, but she made it with marinated artichokes and she said it was awful. I can only imagine. :pinch:

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Episode 477 - Voyager - "The 37's" - 08/28/1995

http://www.allstepisodes.com/megvid.php?n=4201

A group of humans from the 1930s is found in stasis on an abandoned planet, including the lost Amelia Earhart.

Enjoy!

I agree with Dakon, especially regarding how the plot draws you in! In WoW, once a quest went green, I trashed it. Only yellow and above for me. In SWTOR, not only have I kept all my green quests, I've even had GRAY ones, as in ones that give no xp (well, 5 points, but that's pretty much 0 relative to the several thousands for level matching quests) simply to progress the plot.

In my 20s, I found myself on Taris, a frontier world dealing with a growing population of seemingly mindless, infectious creatures known as rakghouls. I soon got to the point where I was ready for the next planet, level-wise, but there were still so many quests available. I decided to spend the day and do them all and was rewarded with what felt like a self-contained space-zombie RPG game, albeit one where I had the option to enlist the aid of friends when desired. This was just ONE planet out of 17 total (14 per side). I was really excited to see where the story took me next, and so far I haven't been disappointed.

The next world, Nar Shadaa, has been completely different, yet equally enthralling. Instead of a wild, swampy frontier, it's like a planet-sized casino rife with gangsters and slumlords. Once again it almost felt like I was playing a new, self-contained game, but this time championing the downtrodden, shutting down drug dens and cage fights, all while uncovering sinister Imperial intrigue. There has been just so much content!

I've come to actually care for not only my character (full voice content goes a long way), but also his companions, and even recurring characters helping you along the way. For instance, there's this Republic agent who has been helping my trooper out. Though there's no official same sex content in the game yet (coming eventually according to the developers), there are a few moments with a flirtatious feel. Even without that, my trooper and the agent have gotten each other out of some tough spots and the banter reflects that. In WoW, I never gave a hoot about the quest givers. Here I find myself actually looking forward to bumping into them again in the future (their locations aren't always static). In my opinion, Bioware has combined the best elements of traditional MMOs and Single Player RPGs. I highly recommend it!

Hmm... as far as customization goes I think I disagree to some extent. First off WoW did finally break down and allow for extensive customization in the last update (4.3). And for SWTOR you do have a lot of choice with what you wear since most of the gear you get is upgradable. I think my beef is that it can take a long time to get all the items you want.

Though I do see that at high level the BEST gear is not customizable / upgradable, but they do appear to match for the most part.

As for space combat, it's a mini-game and that's it. Once you understand that it is actually a lot of fun. I do it everyday and every time it is an adrenaline filled thrill ride.