We have asked dozens of times for people to respect the fact that visitors to LDW see the shoutbox first, and we'd like this site to present a positive image of LDW. The kind of nonsense that's been going on in the SB reflects badly on our community and causes a lot of complaints. These forums, are first, and foremost, supposed to support LDW's games and community.
...Participants in the Shout Box need to understand that people from all nationalities, cultures, and backgrounds come here. It's not a private playground, but rather another means to support our community and allow people to get to know each other.
...I'm certain that the Shout Box will be back, but we need to make sure that everyone understands that it's not a substitute for private conversations using such things as instant messaging. I realize that it's a safe, easy place to chat, especially for the kids, since parents often don't allow them to use IM or chat rooms. However everyone, even people who are not even logged in, can see what's said there. And filling the Shout Box with junk blocks people who really want to ask a question or have an actual conversation.
The Shout Box gets out of hand far too often. I can't tell you how many people have complained about what goes on in the Shout Box, and the moderators can't be here 24 hours a day to keep things in line.
The above are various quotes from LadyCFII in this thread, about the Shout Box. Unfortunately, although these posts were made almost 2 years ago, they are still
very very valid. This post is intended to make everyone aware that the Shout Box is a privilege, not a right, and it has been removed previously. The Shout Box has been getting out of hand recently, and if it continues, it may be removed again.
Thank you for your time, and if you have any questions, let me know.
~Heather