Hi, George -

Although I think the price tag for the Community Chalkboard is hefty, I wholeheartedly support the concept to provide and protect the opportunity for free expression.

I admire Waldo Jaquith's candid comments although one of his statements regarding "accountability" sparked some thoughts on the subject. I believe that we should always be held accountability for our words and actions.

Although free speech is an American right, it holds an individual responsible for the impact their message has on others. To hide behind anonymity is one's right, but it nonetheless places the individual in a position of cowardice.

Take, for example, the expression of hateful or racist messages by an anonymous contributor. The negative power of that free expression lets that individual off the hook to defend one's position (irregardless of whether the public agrees or disagrees with message (s)he provides).

We are fortunate to live in a country that protects the right to free expression but anonymity provides the power to provide propaganda. Without necessarily being held accountable for one's words, which I believe is one's responsibility, anonymous words have the power to do great damage or great good.

It will be interesting to see how our community responds to the opportunity. Let's hope there are many words of wisdom. We sure could use some!

Diane Taylor (electronic mail, January 16, 2002).