BrandonInfo.com

We’ve had this discussion before, but maybe now is a good time to revive it.

For those of you who have asked why this Web site allows bloggers to post anonymously, you may find an answer in Randell Beck’s column that ran in Sunday’s (Feb. 17) Argus Leader. If you missed it, you can find it on www.argusleader.com. Put your cursor over the “Voices” link at the top of the page for a pull down menu, and then move to “Voices Columnists” and click on “Randell Beck.” The headline for the column is “Putting up with extreme opinions.”

One thing I’ve noticed over time on this blog is that elected officials rarely post. At least not under their real names. This blog could be a wealth of information on community topics if people in the know would post, providing details that would increase the public’s understanding of issues.

Back when Holly Boulevard was under contruction, for example, a representative from Terin Corp., the contractor, answered questions on the blog. His comments were very helpful and were a great community service.

There were times when Kathy Ford, who was on the city council at the time, would post background information. Again, informative and helpful.

Years ago, in the early days of forums and chatting, people didn’t use their real names, but they at least picked a screen name and then stuck with it. And no two people had the same screen name. It helped to keep the various voices straight in readers’ minds.

If you read Randell Beck’s column, you will know that Argus Leader Media’s policy is to provide everyone a chance to have their say. Could we as bloggers use that opportunity to have fruitful discussion, to educate ourselves and hopefully make our community a better place?