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The Rules of Pacers Digest

Hello everyone,

Whether your are a long standing forum member or whether you have just registered today, it's a good idea to read and review the rules below so that you have a very good idea of what to expect when you come to Pacers Digest.

A quick note to new members: Your posts will not immediately show up when you make them. An administrator has to approve at least your first post before the forum software will later upgrade your account to the status of a fully-registered member. This usually happens within a couple of hours or so after your post(s) is/are approved, so you may need to be a little patient at first.

Why do we do this? So that it's more difficult for spammers (be they human or robot) to post, and so users who are banned cannot immediately re-register and start dousing people with verbal flames.

Below are the rules of Pacers Digest. After you have read them, you will have a very good sense of where we are coming from, what we expect, what we don't want to see, and how we react to things.

Rule #1

Pacers Digest is intended to be a place to discuss basketball without having to deal with the kinds of behaviors or attitudes that distract people from sticking with the discussion of the topics at hand. These unwanted distractions can come in many forms, and admittedly it can sometimes be tricky to pin down each and every kind that can rear its ugly head, but we feel that the following examples and explanations cover at least a good portion of that ground and should at least give people a pretty good idea of the kinds of things we actively discourage:

"Anyone who __________ is a liar / a fool / an idiot / a blind homer / has their head buried in the sand / a blind hater / doesn't know basketball / doesn't watch the games"

"People with intelligence will agree with me when I say that __________"

"Only stupid people think / believe / do ___________"

"I can't wait to hear something from PosterX when he/she sees that **insert a given incident or current event that will have probably upset or disappointed PosterX here**"

"He/she is just delusional"

"This thread is stupid / worthless / embarrassing"

"I'm going to take a moment to point and / laugh at PosterX / GroupOfPeopleY who thought / believed *insert though/belief here*"

"Remember when PosterX said OldCommentY that no longer looks good? "

In general, if a comment goes from purely on topic to something 'ad hominem' (personal jabs, personal shots, attacks, flames, however you want to call it, towards a person, or a group of people, or a given city/state/country of people), those are most likely going to be found intolerable.

We also dissuade passive aggressive behavior. This can be various things, but common examples include statements that are basically meant to imply someone is either stupid or otherwise incapable of holding a rational conversation. This can include (but is not limited to) laughing at someone's conclusions rather than offering an honest rebuttal, asking people what game they were watching, or another common problem is Poster X will say "that player isn't that bad" and then Poster Y will say something akin to "LOL you think that player is good". We're not going to tolerate those kinds of comments out of respect for the community at large and for the sake of trying to just have an honest conversation.

Now, does the above cover absolutely every single kind of distraction that is unwanted? Probably not, but you should by now have a good idea of the general types of things we will be discouraging. The above examples are meant to give you a good feel for / idea of what we're looking for. If something new or different than the above happens to come along and results in the same problem (that being, any other attitude or behavior that ultimately distracts from actually just discussing the topic at hand, or that is otherwise disrespectful to other posters), we can and we will take action to curb this as well, so please don't take this to mean that if you managed to technically avoid saying something exactly like one of the above examples that you are then somehow off the hook.

That all having been said, our goal is to do so in a generally kind and respectful way, and that doesn't mean the moment we see something we don't like that somebody is going to be suspended or banned, either. It just means that at the very least we will probably say something about it, quite possibly snipping out the distracting parts of the post in question while leaving alone the parts that are actually just discussing the topics, and in the event of a repeating or excessive problem, then we will start issuing infractions to try to further discourage further repeat problems, and if it just never seems to improve, then finally suspensions or bans will come into play. We would prefer it never went that far, and most of the time for most of our posters, it won't ever have to.

A slip up every once and a while is pretty normal, but, again, when it becomes repetitive or excessive, something will be done. Something occasional is probably going to be let go (within reason), but when it starts to become habitual or otherwise a pattern, odds are very good that we will step in.

There's always a small minority that like to push people's buttons and/or test their own boundaries with regards to the administrators, and in the case of someone acting like that, please be aware that this is not a court of law, but a private website run by people who are simply trying to do the right thing as they see it. If we feel that you are a special case that needs to be dealt with in an exceptional way because your behavior isn't explicitly mirroring one of our above examples of what we generally discourage, we can and we will take atypical action to prevent this from continuing if you are not cooperative with us.

Also please be aware that you will not be given a pass simply by claiming that you were 'only joking,' because quite honestly, when someone really is just joking, for one thing most people tend to pick up on the joke, including the person or group that is the target of the joke, and for another thing, in the event where an honest joke gets taken seriously and it upsets or angers someone, the person who is truly 'only joking' will quite commonly go out of his / her way to apologize and will try to mend fences. People who are dishonest about their statements being 'jokes' do not do so, and in turn that becomes a clear sign of what is really going on. It's nothing new.

In any case, quite frankly, the overall quality and health of the entire forum's community is more important than any one troublesome user will ever be, regardless of exactly how a problem is exhibiting itself, and if it comes down to us having to make a choice between you versus the greater health and happiness of the entire community, the community of this forum will win every time.

Lastly, there are also some posters, who are generally great contributors and do not otherwise cause any problems, who sometimes feel it's their place to provoke or to otherwise 'mess with' that small minority of people described in the last paragraph, and while we possibly might understand why you might feel you WANT to do something like that, the truth is we can't actually tolerate that kind of behavior from you any more than we can tolerate the behavior from them. So if we feel that you are trying to provoke those other posters into doing or saying something that will get themselves into trouble, then we will start to view you as a problem as well, because of the same reason as before: The overall health of the forum comes first, and trying to stir the pot with someone like that doesn't help, it just makes it worse. Some will simply disagree with this philosophy, but if so, then so be it because ultimately we have to do what we think is best so long as it's up to us.

If you see a problem that we haven't addressed, the best and most appropriate course for a forum member to take here is to look over to the left of the post in question. See underneath that poster's name, avatar, and other info, down where there's a little triangle with an exclamation point (!) in it? Click that. That allows you to report the post to the admins so we can definitely notice it and give it a look to see what we feel we should do about it. Beyond that, obviously it's human nature sometimes to want to speak up to the poster in question who has bothered you, but we would ask that you try to refrain from doing so because quite often what happens is two or more posters all start going back and forth about the original offending post, and suddenly the entire thread is off topic or otherwise derailed. So while the urge to police it yourself is understandable, it's best to just report it to us and let us handle it. Thank you!

All of the above is going to be subject to a case by case basis, but generally and broadly speaking, this should give everyone a pretty good idea of how things will typically / most often be handled.

Rule #2

If the actions of an administrator inspire you to make a comment, criticism, or express a concern about it, there is a wrong place and a couple of right places to do so.

The wrong place is to do so in the original thread in which the administrator took action. For example, if a post gets an infraction, or a post gets deleted, or a comment within a larger post gets clipped out, in a thread discussing Paul George, the wrong thing to do is to distract from the discussion of Paul George by adding your off topic thoughts on what the administrator did.

The right places to do so are:

A) Start a thread about the specific incident you want to talk about on the Feedback board. This way you are able to express yourself in an area that doesn't throw another thread off topic, and this way others can add their two cents as well if they wish, and additionally if there's something that needs to be said by the administrators, that is where they will respond to it.

B) Send a private message to the administrators, and they can respond to you that way.

If this is done the wrong way, those comments will be deleted, and if it's a repeating problem then it may also receive an infraction as well.

Rule #3

If a poster is bothering you, and an administrator has not or will not deal with that poster to the extent that you would prefer, you have a powerful tool at your disposal, one that has recently been upgraded and is now better than ever: The ability to ignore a user.

When you ignore a user, you will unfortunately still see some hints of their existence (nothing we can do about that), however, it does the following key things:

A) Any post they make will be completely invisible as you scroll through a thread.

B) The new addition to this feature: If someone QUOTES a user you are ignoring, you do not have to read who it was, or what that poster said, unless you go out of your way to click on a link to find out who it is and what they said.

To utilize this feature, from any page on Pacers Digest, scroll to the top of the page, look to the top right where it says 'Settings' and click that. From the settings page, look to the left side of the page where it says 'My Settings', and look down from there until you see 'Edit Ignore List' and click that. From here, it will say 'Add a Member to Your List...' Beneath that, click in the text box to the right of 'User Name', type in or copy & paste the username of the poster you are ignoring, and once their name is in the box, look over to the far right and click the 'Okay' button. All done!

Rule #4

Regarding infractions, currently they carry a value of one point each, and that point will expire in 31 days. If at any point a poster is carrying three points at the same time, that poster will be suspended until the oldest of the three points expires.

Rule #5

When you share or paste content or articles from another website, you must include the URL/link back to where you found it, who wrote it, and what website it's from. Said content will be removed if this doesn't happen.

An example:

If I copy and paste an article from the Indianapolis Star website, I would post something like this:

http://www.linktothearticlegoeshere.com/article
Title of the Article
Author's Name
Indianapolis Star

Rule #6

We cannot tolerate illegal videos on Pacers Digest. This means do not share any links to them, do not mention any websites that host them or link to them, do not describe how to find them in any way, and do not ask about them. Posts doing anything of the sort will be removed, the offenders will be contacted privately, and if the problem becomes habitual, you will be suspended, and if it still persists, you will probably be banned.

The legal means of watching or listening to NBA games are NBA League Pass Broadband (for US, or for International; both cost money) and NBA Audio League Pass (which is free). Look for them on NBA.com.

Rule #7

Provocative statements in a signature, or as an avatar, or as the 'tagline' beneath a poster's username (where it says 'Member' or 'Administrator' by default, if it is not altered) are an unwanted distraction that will more than likely be removed on sight. There can be shades of gray to this, but in general this could be something political or religious that is likely going to provoke or upset people, or otherwise something that is mean-spirited at the expense of a poster, a group of people, or a population.

It may or may not go without saying, but this goes for threads and posts as well, particularly when it's not made on the off-topic board (Market Square).

We do make exceptions if we feel the content is both innocuous and unlikely to cause social problems on the forum (such as wishing someone a Merry Christmas or a Happy Easter), and we also also make exceptions if such topics come up with regards to a sports figure (such as the Lance Stephenson situation bringing up discussions of domestic abuse and the law, or when Jason Collins came out as gay and how that lead to some discussion about gay rights).

However, once the discussion seems to be more/mostly about the political issues instead of the sports figure or his specific situation, the thread is usually closed.

Rule #8

We prefer self-restraint and/or modesty when making jokes or off topic comments in a sports discussion thread. They can be fun, but sometimes they derail or distract from a topic, and we don't want to see that happen. If we feel it is a problem, we will either delete or move those posts from the thread.

Rule #9

Generally speaking, we try to be a "PG-13" rated board, and we don't want to see sexual content or similarly suggestive content. Vulgarity is a more muddled issue, though again we prefer things to lean more towards "PG-13" than "R". If we feel things have gone too far, we will step in.

Rule #10

We like small signatures, not big signatures. The bigger the signature, the more likely it is an annoying or distracting signature.

Rule #11

Do not advertise anything without talking about it with the administrators first. This includes advertising with your signature, with your avatar, through private messaging, and/or by making a thread or post.
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Merry Christmas to everyone

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  • #16
    Re: Merry Christmas to everyone

    Originally posted by Kstat View Post
    2K sports just went offline...that blows.
    Merry Xmas?


    Comment


    • #17
      Re: Merry Christmas to everyone

      A very Merry Christmas to one and all. And also a Thank You to all for the
      entertainment you provide with mostly your expert insight, but also the wit,
      sarcasm, and even periodic head-butting that occurs.


      I would have to say that I most like that the Pacers are developing a distinct
      identity and "signature" style of play; and it is keeping lots of opponents
      off-balance. Winning with style.

      I like their grit and determination; they have alot more heart than before.

      Just all-around much much better than the "La-La Land" of the last couple
      seasons.

      Comment


      • #18
        Re: Merry Christmas to everyone

        As a relatively new member here, but a relatively old member of the human race, I just want to say I have a lot of fun reading the witty and insightful posts on PD...as well as the not-so-witty, ticked off, and just plain goofy stuff. It's all good.

        ABADays, hang in there. Been there, done that. Coming home and telling stories about it is the best part.

        Having the Pacers trying hard and seeing results is a good Christmas present.

        Merry Christmakwanzanakkuh, everyone.


        [~]) ... Cheers! Go Pacers!

        Comment


        • #19
          Re: Merry Christmas to everyone

          Merry Christmas all. This forum is full of some really cool people.

          I like how the Pacers have stuck it up their critics so far.

          Comment


          • #20
            Re: Merry Christmas to everyone

            Merry Christmas everyone!

            My favorite thing about this Pacers team is the genuine chemistry they seem to have developed, on and off the floor. Call it camaraderie, chemistry, whatever.. they just seem to enjoy being around each other much more than years past. Another thing I love is Jim O'Brien's direct, no-BS approach when speaking to players and the media. No more listening to Carlisle rephrase the same response 47 different ways.

            As for Christmas, my favorite part is the cozy memories with my family on Christmas growing up - decorating the tree, opening presents, burying the cat in wrapping paper.. Sounds weird, but I'll always remember the smell (they say smell is the most nostalgic of all senses). Our family always kept our Christmas tree, stockings and other holiday stuff up in the attic, which had its own distinct smell (that of an attic), and I would always notice it when they'd have everything out on Christmas. Now anytime I smell something similar I think of Christmas =]

            Comment


            • #21
              Re: Merry Christmas to everyone

              Originally posted by Speed View Post
              I like most about Xmas is that one moment when you are all together and it kinda freezes as your maybe off to the side and you can see all of what made you and all of who you've impacted or made, in one vision..one earshot. I try to take a minds eye picture to keep with me all year... So let the moment come to you, stop where you're standing and See it, hear it...take a deep breath and drink it all in. Its pretty great.
              Although I don't like shortening the word Christmas as many do, let me say that the rest of your post is one of the nicest thoughts I've read for awhile.

              Thanks.

              Comment


              • #22
                Re: Merry Christmas to everyone

                There is one thing that happens this time of year that I have never quite understood.

                Why is it that when a group of people wander around town at night singing, people call it "Caroling", yet when I do it, it's called "drunk and disorderly"?

                Never understood that.

                Comment


                • #23
                  Re: Merry Christmas to everyone

                  Merry Christmas everyone, I love this site sometimes when I miss games I don't even bother reading the espn recap as our game threads are much more entertaining and probably more insightful then some espn writer coud come up with.

                  My favorite thing about this team is that I have a hope that we're going to win the next game we play. I can remember during the past couple of seasons knowing we needed to win this or that game and then seeing somebody like a dallas a phoenix or spurs on the schedule and just know it was most likely a loss. We give ourselves a fighting chance each and every night we might not win them all but we haven't rolled over for anyone this entire season.

                  My favorite thing about christmas is being with family and friends. Also watching one of my favorite movies "It's A Wonderful Life" on christmas eve every year on NBC. The lights, the snow, the christmas tree's and the nice food on christmas day

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                  • #24
                    Re: Merry Christmas to everyone

                    I want to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas & a Happy New Year

                    What I like about christmas is just the holiday season in general, as well as all the family and friends over. Its an awesome time.

                    What I like about our current team is their never give up attitude. Its something I wanted to see from them for some time now, also It looks as if JT is finally maturing as a player/leader if you will.
                    If you havin' depth problems, I feel bad for you son; I got 99 problems but a bench ain't one! - Hicks
                    [/center]
                    @thatguyjoe84

                    Comment


                    • #25
                      Re: Merry Christmas to everyone

                      I like the ball movement.

                      From the quick tempo up the floor to cutters, penetration and kicking it back out in the halfcourt. JO ball is only one of about five options, up from one or two last year.

                      It's fun to watch.

                      And JOB's standards and accountability are a great breath of fresh air.

                      On Christmas, Bishop Kallistos Ware has said that to be a person is to reflect. Animals do not reflect. Christmas is the time of year when you relax, chill, stop all the agendas, and just enjoy friends and family and reflect on the year.

                      I've only met one member of this board. Arkman and I attended a Pacers game in Atlanta once. He doesn't post anymore.

                      This board cracks me up. Intrigues me. I write for a living. I'm pretty good at it. And there are several people on this board that run circles around my abilities. It's like my involvement with jazz (head of the local jazz association). It's a funny slice of life, because a guy who could appear to be the lowest form of humanity rotting in the gutter just may be one of most talented jazz artists you've ever met. I think our country's best writers may be sitting in cubicles processing insurance claims.

                      Anyway, I'm a fan of the personalities and talents on this board as much as I am a fan of the Pacers. This forum is a blessing and a gift, providing some human interaction during seasons of life when I'm obscessing on certain projects and socially deprived. Thanks guys, and Merry Christmas.
                      Last edited by McKeyFan; 12-22-2007, 02:13 AM.
                      "Look, it's up to me to put a team around ... Lance right now." —Kevin Pritchard press conference

                      Comment


                      • #26
                        Re: Merry Christmas to everyone

                        I like a lot of things about this Pacers team.

                        The way Jamaal and Mike have played, love it.

                        Would like Danny to be a little more consistant.

                        Love what Jim has brought to this club.

                        I love the fact that I can sit here and feel good about most of the things Larry has been a part of doing with this ball club. I mean I am not gonna lie, there were times I have been scared ****less that Larry is gonna be the next Kevin McHale of a GM.

                        What has made me most comfortable with Larry, the best example I can give is replacing Rick with Jim. Now Larry could have replaced Rick with a coach with similar personality, and similar style. But he didn't. When we replaced Rick we weren't making a change for the sake of making a change, which I feel a lot of teams do more often than not. We went and got maybe not a better coach but defiantly a different one. Both Rick and Jim are good coaches but for this team it seems Jim is the better fit.

                        You look at Shawne Williams this year and the improvment he has made. Boy was I pissed we didn't take Farmar, Lowry, or one of those point guards from that draft. But damn was I wrong about that.

                        More then anything I am just very happy and excited, and I said this in another thread, that we seem to have something to build on here. That we have a clear direction.

                        Comment


                        • #27
                          Re: Merry Christmas to everyone

                          Merry Christmas all. My favorie part is by far the 24 hour marathon of A Christmas Story.
                          STARBURY

                          08 and Beyond

                          Comment


                          • #28
                            Re: Merry Christmas to everyone

                            Merry Christmas UB and everyone.

                            Favorite thing about the Pacers this season: I like that there is at least an appearance of accountability with the players and there seems to be more of a team ethic being stressed (not just lip service).

                            As for what I like about Christmas and the holidays... Certainly seeing the joy of the season in others is wonderful but I also like finding some quiet time (no phones, no drop-ins, no business) and the ability to remember and reflect.

                            -Bball
                            Nuntius was right for a while. I was wrong for a while. But ultimately I was right and Frank Vogel has been let go.

                            ------

                            "A player who makes a team great is more valuable than a great player. Losing yourself in the group, for the good of the group, that’s teamwork."

                            -John Wooden

                            Comment


                            • #29
                              Re: Merry Christmas to everyone

                              Merry Christmas all.

                              Comment


                              • #30
                                Re: Merry Christmas to everyone

                                Merry Christmas everyone!
                                12/27/2005 at Spurs - SamBear - 3

                                1/2/2008 vs Memphis - SamBear - 19


                                4/9/2014 - Luis Scola also recorded a season high with 24 points and Evan Turner added 23 for Indiana.

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