Do all bloggers deserve "Repect"?

Respect is earned, not given.  That is the motto of the BR. 

by Matthew (web guy for the BR)

It has come to our attention today that some people are upset because we monitor our blog posts. 

While this does not seem fair for "freedom of speech naysayers", it actually benefits them.

Too many local sites have gone under for featuring people who cannot carry on a decent conversation or cannot address controversy respectfully.  One local site, like Topix, has been guilty of that for far too long.  They allow people to post instantly with any name, hide behind that name, and throw stones at glass houses. Other local sites are doing the same.

Our site is proud to host a wide variety of opinions from all residents and non-residents.  What we do not host is swear words, insane ramblings that cannot lead to open discussions, or attacks against our volunteer site.  Like I said earlier, respect is to be earned.  Posting time may vary, but in the end, you get a solid conversation that does not go away.  Parts of it do not disappear, making it impossible to follow the conversation later. 

We take pride in ensuring people cannot hide behind a false name to defame anyone.  It takes leadership and diligence to promote a place where residents can contribute stories and make them available for readers to see without the cost the newspapers would charge them to do so.  It takes strong people, like Jay and Bonnie to encourage the residents to participate in their communities and feel like they have a say, while not having to feel fear for speaking out.  It takes strong leaders to run for office against a 24+ year regime of non-communicative democracy that fails to listen to its constituents needs and stifles freedom of speech.

This site was based off the platform that any and all residents could step forward and tell their story, but be open to bloggers responding, either in agreeing or picking apart the story/disagreeing.  That is the American way.  Bloggers who chose to destroy sites do not gain our respect.  Writers that publish articles on our site, that have not done their research, will be advised before posting a second article.  It is all a check and balance policy to keep the site maintained, well running, and balanced for the good of the Village.

We welcome your responses, but be civil.  Prove your statements when you disagree and if you want to see your words published, earn the respect in each sentence you post. 

For reference, this is the sign in our office, which proudly boasts the following:

“The most important attribute that will most likely determine success or failure as a writer or blogger is the ability to be a good person, …to control their most destructive humans emotions, tell the truth, and do and say what’s right… If you want bloggers to be decent and honourable, you must be decent and honourable.”