A: Anyone 13 years of age or older who has a vested interest in the Boy Scouts of America. This would include Scouts, leaders, parents, members of chartered organizations, etc. Former members in good standing are also invited to participate.
Q: Why must I register to write messages on these boards?
A: This is a youth protection issue. While we do not allow youth under the age of 13 years old to use these forums, there are still Scouts from 13 to 18 years old here. At minimum, the registration process ensures that the email prospective members provide is legitimate as of the date and time they use it to complete the verification process. As such, it is a clue to their idenity that can be used if a youth protection problem occurs.
Q: I registered and it says I'm a Scout. I'm not a Scout!
A: The ranks underneath the names of the members here are related to the number of messages you post on the boards. As you post more messages, your rank goes up. (Ex: After posting eight messages you will move up to the rank of Tenderfoot.) All members are treated equally here and must work their way up through the ranks.
Q: But wait? I see some people here identified as Counselors and it says Adv Chair under your name? I thought we were all equal?
A: Well, some people are more equal than others... (Holy shades of Orwell, Batman!!) The people identified as Counselors are the forum moderators. They are here to help you. As for me, I'm just special
In the future, other special guests may receive special ranks and recognition when needed.Q: I tried to register but something went wrong. What do I do now?
A: Contact me via email. Make sure you tell me what username you attempted to register.
Q: What subjects are allowed?
A: Subjects which comply with the current policies of the Boy Scouts of America and are helpful to troops in their day to day activities.
Q: Can you give me some examples of subjects that don't qualify under the current policy?
A: Subjects which question the BSA's policies about the Three Gs (girls, gays, and God) are not allowed here. Subjects which promote activities specifically banned by the Guide To Safe Scouting (fireworks, paintball, etc) are not allowed here. Basically, this is not a political forum, it is a support forum. As long as your messages are about solving problems they should be okay.
Q: How do I volunteer to become a moderator and/or help with the MeritBadge.com/net web sites?
A: Click here.
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PLEASE NOTE: This topic is being left open so that questions can be suggested for inclusion in the FAQ. However, after each suggestion has been considered, the replies will be deleted.
