Within 45 minutes of launching this blog, I was already defending my first post–a report on a weekend e-mail and subsequent meeting that posed a serious challenge to the District 58 referendum.
I don’t like to think of myself as someone who folds under pressure, but I agreed to delete the post for the present time and to give the issue further consideration. In the meantime, I will outline my intentions for this blog so everyone from this point forward will know exactly what to expect:
* I will be as fair and accurate as possible, while retaining the right to state my views and provide analysis as I see fit. If you disagree, it is your right to let me know, either on this blog, in immediate and full view of other readers, or privately via e-mail. If, however, you don’t have the courage to address your differences with me, please do not excoriate me for having the courage to express my carefully considered opinions.
* Downers Grove is a mid-sized town with an active slate of issues and concerns. As a journalist with 25 years of experience, I am fully prepared to report the news and request information from elected officials, administrators and others who may have something to contribute.
* I view journalism as a noble calling. I believe oversight by a fair and responsible press is fundamental to our way of government and our way of life. I also believe it is the right and responsibility of every citizen to question their government institutions and to participate in civic life.
* People of good faith may disagree, sometimes passionately, but their disagreements should never become hurtful or personal. This blog isn’t a veiled attempt at character assassination, nor will it become a forum for personal attacks, which do nothing to further the serious consideration of serious issues. Posts that cross this line will be deleted.
* Nothing is more destructive to the fabric of a community than failing to speak because one is afraid of being considered strident or negative or worse. It’s clear, given today’s inauspicious beginning, that I can expect to catch heat for my opinions. If friendships suffer and social relationships become strained, it will be your choice, not mine.
* This is your blog, too. Unlike a newspaper, a blog provides instant access to posts and the unabridged opportunity to dispute them. You are free to contest anything I write, to clarify any misunderstandings and to right any inaccuracies. I wholeheartedly invite your participation.
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