We love Fayetteville and we enjoy talking about the issues that affect us all in this city. Conversations present opportunities for new ideas, constructive arguments, and of course, entertainment.

Consider the comments on the Flyer like discussions at a party or a coffee shop. Being part of a conversation means adding to the discussion and adhering to unspoken rules of etiquette.

Stay focused.

Bringing forth new information is one thing, but changing the subject is just annoying. Comments on a specific post are for discussing that topic.

Be clear.

It’s difficult to tell the difference between sincerity and sarcasm without seeing your face. Take the time to make sure your message is clear so people don’t take your comment the wrong way.

Don’t be a jerk.

It is possible to get your point across without cheap one-liners or name-calling. Comments that are nasty, cranky, or condescending will likely be flagged as offensive by other users. If your comments are continually flagged, you could be banned from the site. That goes for using profanity, too. So think before you type, especially if you’re in a bad mood, drunk, high or all of the above.

Don’t hide behind your anonymity.

You don’t have to use your real name here, but if you abuse that right, you’ll be banned. Do not out anyone or be otherwise cowardly by making accusations against a specific person while hiding behind the cloak of anonymity.

Pick a name and stick to it.

One of the easiest ways to get your comments removed is to change your name over and over, particularly in the middle of a discussion. It’s deceitful to pretend to be a bunch of different people with the same opinion. If you do this and get caught, you will be banned from the site.

Don’t use someone else’s identity.

Don’t use someone else’s name or avatar when commenting. Again, you don’t have to use your real name or photo, but don’t use another commenter’s identity. It’s confusing and unfair to everyone.

Please don’t feed the trolls.

Some people get a kick out of annoying you. Don’t stroke their ego. You can’t win an argument with a troll. You can, however, take the high road and spare us of the vitriol. Thanks in advance for doing that.

Don’t insult us – and everyone else.

It’s insulting to read comments like “Must be a slow news day,” or “Not news.” Every post doesn’t have to be for you. The Flyer has over 8,000 unique visitors a day – so when you comment, you address everyone in our community.

We can’t read every comment.

We can’t always review everything written in every discussion. Let us know if you think someone has crossed the line by emailing contact@fayettevilleflyer.com.

You are responsible for your words.

Commenters on the Flyer are responsible for all legal consequences arising from their comments, including libel, infringement of copyright or actions that threaten a third party. By submitting a comment, you agree to indemnify Wonderstate Media LLC, its partners and employees from any legal action arising from your comments.