NCGW friends,
I would like to add to what you submitted, regarding to the subject line.
Each and every entry on my surname searches are tagged with subject
line suggestions accordingly.
See:
http://www.rootsweb.com/~nccatawb/surnames.htm
http://www.rootsweb.com/~ncburke/surname-reg.htm
et al.
While I'm at it, I have been browsing some of our NCGenWeb Pages in
order to find sources to refer folks seeking to research alternative
opportunities.
I was disturbed to discover that some folks have been using their
RootsWeb-sponsored pages to promote commercial activities.
I have always supported those who choose to promote their
genealogical services and publications but our Project pages have,
from the git-go, been non-profit in every sense of the word.
However, as members of the USGenWeb Project, our policy is set forth
in the bylaws of the USGW:
ARTICLE IX. GUIDELINES/STANDARDS FOR WEBSITES/MEMBERS.
This clearly states what commercial activity is appropriate and what is not.
The interpretation of these bylaws is clear:
Commercial publication or services advertised on a USGenWeb page are
not appropriate. Period.
They should be avoided in order to maintain the original intent of
the USGenWeb.
Regardless of our sponsorship (the folks who pay for our server
space), the USGenWeb is still an independent, non-profit organization.
Any commercial activity on any USGenWeb site conflicts with our charter.
Those who host USGenWeb pages should be aware of the original intent
of the USGenWeb to provide free genealogical information. While
informative research material, including, but not limited to, census,
wills, cemetery records, court records are of infinite value to
researchers, any fee or subscription in order to access this
information is not appropriate on any USGW page. The Internet
provides many opportunities to make commercial offerings all of which
are legitimate. Among these are personal web sites that can be linked
from USGW sites.
As an example, my NCGW pages (ex:
http://www.rootsweb.com/~nccatawb/)
reference a personal web site containing research and publication
pages (BOOKS & RESOURCES). This page provides a free venue for
authors and publishers to offer their services. (
http://www.hartshorn.us/Bookpage.htm ) and at the same time, it
avoids any conflict with USGW page policy.
I hope that our NCGenWeb officers will police the pages under their
control and take whatever action might be required to bring the NCGW
into compliance with USGW policy.
Derick S. Hartshorn
has