Re: Hello im sweet_tooth
The green dots next to the names are for "reputation". If someone really likes something that someone else posts, they can click on the "scales" in the upper right of the post next to the post # and give them some reputation. They can also give negative reputation but we kind of pride ourselves on not using that one.
There is also a triangle with a exclamation mark in it that is for reporting posts. If you ever come across a post that you think is offensive, instead of responding, it is best to just report the post and allow the moderators to handle it.
As for the "welcome wagon", you'll have to ask Doc. I don't know what his requirements are. You may have to be an active member for a while but you can certainly ask him. Just send him a private message.
As for the avatar, it sounds okay but we would have to see it. You can switch to it and if anyone has a problem with it, they can report it and the staff will let you know.