i'm calmer now, so could an ST member explain how this is not rejected per 8.2 of TOLORS?

8.2 Add a rank above Scratcher or allow users to skip the New Scratcher status
There are three ranks: New Scratcher, Scratcher, and Scratch Team. The only reason the New Scratcher rank exists is to prevent spam, and since it only takes a few weeks to become a Scratcher, bullying and separation are rather minimal. Similarly, the Scratch Team rank exists so users know who is on the Scratch Team; note that Scratch Team members do not brag about the Scratch Team rank. In contrast, there may be division in the community between Scratchers and those with a higher rank, which could also lead to bragging and bullying. This also includes a “verified Scratcher” status where well-known Scratchers get a special symbol next to their name; for more information in the case where a Scratcher is famous outside of Scratch, see this post.

In particular, this suggestion includes a “Former Scratch Team Member” rank as well as a “Youth Advisory Board” rank, as account ranks in general are intended to identify who has access to certain features. For more information, see this post.

Although the restrictions for New Scratchers may seem annoying, they are extremely effective against spam and inappropriate content. For New Scratchers who are wondering how to become a Scratcher or what it means to be one, check out this topic. The Scratch Team will not allow any accounts to “skip” the New Scratcher status, even if it is an alternate account of an existing account.

how is adding paywalls lightweight?

the scratch team has historically rejected this for a reason, albeit a good one. a feature like this is an easy route to bragging and bullying, which i'm sure nobody here wants. i personally believe the scratch membership is a good thing, but we should do our best to construct it in a way that keeps bragging and bullying to a minimum. i personally don't think this is a step in that direction.

Hi folks! Thank you very much for sharing your thoughts and feelings. I appreciate that you care a lot about Scratch and its future. Please see this issue for a message about membership features like this.