Rated G
When I launched this on-line journal ten weeks ago, I did it with the goal of encouraging constructive, G-rated dialogue about issues in Christiansburg that could be viewed, interpreted, and discussed by all members of the community ... whether you happen to be age 8 or 88 (or more). I take no offense, in fact I appreciate, opposing views and like to consider issues from as many perspectives as possible before arriving at a decision and taking action. Over the last few days, for the first time, I've taken editorial liberty to delete two posts that I construed as inappropriate and/or beyond the constructive tenor that is desired for this journal as explained. My hope is to avoid restricting comments prior to posting, and I appreciate (in advance) folks respect for the nature of this open forum so far.
Brad Stipes
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Reader Comments (14)
Was it SPAM or someone who had a different viewpoint?
If it is just a different viewpoint then just turn off the comments section...
Also, check out my blog www.stuartmease.com
Yeh, I agree with the other comment. It might have been spam, Brad. There are lots of spammers that hijack comments on blogs to improve their position in the search engines (google).
You might check into setting up a captcha or try to use some other "mitgation" technique to prevent spamming.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Captcha
Not spam, rather a town voter. And it was g-rated comment. Government censorship at a local and feeble level. And you track IP addresses but couldn't control spammers if they chose? As you aspire to higher office and the local paper helps you through promoting an elected official message, this will be remembered.
I appreciate and enjoy the positive, fun, and informative tone of your site. Even my children read your blog and especially enjoyed the "Are You Smarter than a Fifth Grader" piece. I am disappointed to see the "typical blogger negativity" directed at you recently and I hope you continue to give us something positive to think about from week to week. I love living in Christiansburg and only wish that others could look around and find the beauty in their town.
I am very concerned over a decision made the Town Council permitting the sell of beer at an event to take place on the Friday night before the Virginia Tech vs.Georgia Tech. I feel that this was a bad decision and will give the impression that we can not have an enjoyable time without alcohol. Also this is sending the worng message to our youth.
Riner,
Your comments are appreciated and your opinion shared by others, including myself, especially with regard to the message to our youth. This event was organized and sponsored by a private group with proceeds equally benefiting the Montgomery Museum and the 2009 (Third Annual) Backyard Brawl basketball tournament. We have every reason to believe that the event will be a responsible one, but I can assure you that I had second thoughts about my support of this beginning that same night after the meeting. In fact, of all the votes in my first two years, this is the one of which I'm least satisfied. I realize admitting this may be politically damaging, but I'm man enough to own up to my mistakes. And this is definitely one of them. Thanks again for taking time to write and for holding me accountable; I needed to hear this.
When did Christiansburg annex Riner? Was this about when some (former) council members moved there?
If you were uncomfortable, why did you vote in support of it? Why didn't you raise the issue during the discussion?
RWilliams - Perhaps Riner is a person in this case, not the place.
F. Hawk - As I inferred, from time to time the forest view is sometimes lost from the trees and on this one I simply let myself down ... and it looks like others as well. I promise be more careful in the future. Thanks for letting me know.
Riner is a person
If the tailgate beer party is an event that was organized and sponsored by a private group with proceeds equally benefiting the Montgomery Museum and the 2009 (Third Annual) Backyard Brawl basketball tournament, why is the tailgate beer bash sponsored by the Town and Town's Rec Dept? Is the message we want to send to the youth of our Town..I cannot believe the rec people I know want it. What about liability issues?
Confused's typing skills are telling stories. This was not reported to be a "beer bash" and instead stated as a fund raiser supporting other good causes. It might bring people to the center city who may not otherwise come to Christiansburg when heading to a VT game the next day and spending all their time and money there. It doesn't appear to be something targeting children and clearly appears to be an adult leisure (recreation) activity. A block party with music and food vendors for residents to enjoy fellowship isn't something new. Downtown Roanoke has done this type of function well for years, also benefiting non-profit organizations.
Brad –
As you know I had concerns about Christiansburg Parks and Recreation being a sponsor of the "Tech-Tech Tailgate" event because of alcohol being sold. However, Kevin Stoner’s planning, implementation, and supervision were excellent. All members of our staff that worked, Public Works, Police Department, and all others that worked with did an excellent job. I still have concerns about Christiansburg Parks and Recreation sponsoring events where alcohol will be sold. That decision will be up to Town Council. Christiansburg Parks and Recreation will always support the decisions of Town Council and Lance Terpenny, Town Manager to do what they feel is best for the Town of Christiansburg.
Sincerely,
Art Price, MA, CPRP
Director, Christiansburg Parks and Recreation
Adjunct Faculty, Radford University - Recreation, Parks and Tourism
Proud Home of 2008 Dixie Baseball Boys “O”- Zone Virginia State Champions
Host Site for 2010 Dixie Baseball Boys World Series
Thanks for your thoughts Art.