Galm

It's all just randomly generated

Huh... I don't think that happened though? Or I donated right as I was made one or something. I don't wanna be a fraud in that case haha.

Contributor is for people who donate $20+ and ask for the status. Friend is for people who have been around a while and who an admin likes enough to flag. They aren't related.

I'd say be patient and polite, don't demand things of people like some people do, follow the general rules (like asking for most advice in the 'all purpose advice thread'), use the search and read relevant threads on products you have or want (basically do your own research before asking questions), and you'll be fine.

They're skeptical of new members, especially new members who seem like moochers. But once people know you and like you, the scrutiny diminishes. They take the "friends" idea seriously and you are a stranger. Most of us are also just older and have busy lives so we can't answer every question... why would someone want to answer an entitled-seeming question with their little free time? Etc.

Got it thanks. I just reported the posts and removed their content. Hopefully a mod will remove them.