Hey Martha, the forum is back!

Well, it looks as though the general public will have the opportunity to share their thoughts on the local paper’s website again. The reason for the forums resurrection it not addressed in either of the Briefs.

As much as the forums were despised by those who became topics for conversation and by those “real” journalists, there appears to be a need. That need is -- they drive hits. So for all who thought these forums should be eradicated now find that the all mighty dollar prevailed. In the internet world, hits are gold.   

The paper has touted additional oversight when compared to the old forum. What that meant was never clearly explained. Maybe if they can find a journalist, they will ask and report on those outstanding, pertinent questions.

The publisher of the local paper is quoted in the print media as saying, “We’re confident visitors to our Web site will use the new forum for the constructive discussion of community issues and other topics of interest.” I guess the paper will define what “constructive discussion.” Do as I say, not as I do - Big Brother.

1. Do you think the timing of the removal of the other forums was coincidental?

2. Do you think a call was really made to shut the old forum down?

3. So is a forum with “additional oversight and moderation” the same as the comments?

4. Is the new oversight policed locally?

5. Does the other editor have to sign-off on comments, too?

6. Does the new format allow the Editor to “balance” public opinion?

7. If one blog site is bad, are two better?

8. Have you ever seen Topix?

9. Do we control events better when we control opinion?

Comments

[Justa Guy]

First, let me say, I do not work for the local paper company.
Now, the decision to close the forums was corporate- ALL of the CNHI forums were closed. Some re-opened the next day, some are still closed.
It is not the same as 'comments'- it affords 'real-time' responses or comments.
The editor would likely have the ability to "balance opinion"- but should he?
Topix is very much the same, but nationaly based and operated.
The forums do not necessarily give control over opinion- moreso, the opposite.
I have no answeres for your other questions/comments.
Question for 'truth'- are you jealous?

[disinterested]

Don't think that a forum like "The Truth", that deletes posts when they don't like what they say, should be criticizing our local ragsheet.