IF you want to post a message on the list, and you have to ask yourself "Is this topic appropriate for the list?", then it's probably not acceptable for the list. Take the time to write to the List Admin and ask. You may be pleasantly surprised.
Here's what you should do if you see an inappropriate or questionable message on the mailing list.
--Wait a reasonable amount of time for the
administrator to handle the situation. Not
everyone is in same time zone that you are. Moreover, volunteer
admins cannot be expected to respond to a list problem instantly
-- and it is not YOUR job or responsibility to handle
administrative list matters.
--Remember that we are an international list with multiple
languages and customs and consider this before responding. If you
want to contact the poster privately and let him know you found
his message offensive or inappropriate, you may do so, but please
remember that the error may have been unintentional.
--The moment you read a questionable post, consider the topic as closed
to on-list comments. Do not post a response
to the list, which will only be every bit as off-topic and
inappropriate as the original message, and call attention to the
offensive/inappropriate post.
--Should you feel the need to comment on the offensive or
inappropriate message to the list admin -- do so privately.
--Contact any RootsWeb list admin at: LISTNAME-admin@rootsweb.com -- replacing the generic word LISTNAME with the actual
name of the list.
Rest assured that whether or not you see the list admin take
action publicly on the list, there is a horde of faithful
volunteer admins acting behind the scenes to maintain order and
keep discussion on-topic on the lists.
Previously published in RootsWeb Review: 4 May 2005, Vol. 8, No.
18
If you'd like to make comments, please write me at
NewBrunswick-admin@rootsweb.com
Marilyn Strout, List Admin