We've had some feedback from Editors who have expressed their frustration with feeling as though their posted items don't get the attention they deserve from Topix forum users. There's nothing like posting what you feel is an important news item and then hearing only the chirping of crickets in return.

We are working on ways to bridge that gap between our news pages and forum participation, but there is one thing you, as editors, can do to try to get the ball rolling. Some Editors are already aware of this trick, and if you are one of those savvy few, consider yourself saluted.

News items don't appear in the forums until they have been commented on, thus starting a forum thread. Some editors have begun providing that first comment themselves to get that forum thread started and the proverbial ball rolling. This shows a fleet of active forum users that you have posted a new item, and you should see a big increase in feedback from the forum participants.

I realize some editors are not heavy forum users. Some editors have never posted in the forums at all!! It can definitely be somewhat intimidating to jump in, if you have not participated in many online communities before. For those that may be nervous to make the leap, here are some tips for a better forum experience:

1. Your privacy online is what you make it. - From choosing your user name, to the content that you post online, always consider your privacy. Remember that any information you put on the internet is available to ANYONE with a computer and a browser. If you aren't comfortable with absolutely everyone in the world knowing your full name, where you live, where you work and your mother's maiden name, do not post that information on the internet.

2. Use Your Words - For more productive debate, remember that on the other side of that computer screen is a human being with a belief system of their own and an equal right to express it. Debating issues with people of an opposing viewpoint is about as valuable as speech gets. If you feel your blood start to boil and an intense urge to open up a can of virtual whoop-ass, take a breath, count to ten, and use the situation as an opportunity to clarify your own beliefs to yourself and to anyone watching. Remember that personal attacks only weaken your position and hyperbole, while entertaining, almost never furthers your argument, and can be pretty antagonistic. The world and the internet are both better places when we use our manners. Treat people with respect and you are more likely to be treated in kind.

3. Don't feed the trolls - Internet forums attract all kinds of personalities. This is great for vibrant and passionate discussion, but it also means that a few party poopers will show up at your door. Trolls are folks that join in discussions online for the sole purpose of driving other users crazy and watching them unravel with frustration. They are not hard to recognize. When you run across them, ignore them. Eventually, when they can't get the reaction that feeds them, they generally move on to greener and crazier pastures.

4. Anonymous Shmanonymous - Even though it can feel empowering and safe to post content anonymously online, you are still responsible for what you put on the internet. Any website you visit can log your ip address, internet service provider, browser information, all kinds of things. Remember that when you have that urge to spill state secrets in the wee hours of the night. If you violate the law, you can be identified and are still liable for your actions.

5. Know the Rules - Most forum systems have a Terms of Service Policy with regard to user generated content. Sometimes the Terms are short and sweet and sometimes quite complex. Know the Terms of Service of your online haunts and participate within those bounds. Freedom of speech doesn't mean you have the right to post whatever you want on someone else's website. If you play by the house rules, you should be just fine.

These tips will serve you well in any online forum, but I hope you will use them to take the plunge here at Topix.

We've had an ongoing issue with comments on our Editor Blog and thanks to one of our engineers, the era of errors is over. Try saying that five times fast. Better yet, try saying anything!

Let's have a sound-off from our Editor crew in the comments below.

I know you've been reading, so take a minute and say hello. While you're at it, feel free to tell everyone what page(s) you edit. :)