News organization Seven Days allowed comments from 2014 to 2020:

On their website Reasons for closing comments:

Prioritizing high-quality journalism, moderating debates between readers was too time-consuming Alternative ways to engage with Seven Days:

Send a letter to the editor, send a tipSeven Days’ goal for their reporting:

Produce high-quality… responsible local journalism Return of online comments:

When they have better tech tools for managing them ← →

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More details: Found here

Vermont News organization Troubled

The bucolic landscape of Vermont, renowned for its picturesque countryside and quintessential small-town charm, has been beset by a perturbing development in the realm of journalism. A prominent news organization, hitherto regarded as a paragon of excellence in local reporting, has recently been plagued by a series of difficulties that threaten to undermine its very fabric.

It appears that the entity in question, Seven Days, has found it increasingly burdensome to moderate debates between readers on its website. The Sisyphean task of policing online discourse, a herculean endeavor in and of itself, has become a significant drain on the organization’s resources. The decision to shutter the comment section, a move that has sent shockwaves throughout the journalistic community… is a testament to the gravity of the situation.

The leadership ofSeven Days has opted to redirect its energies towards producing high-quality, responsible local journalism, a laudable goal that is doubtless music to the ears of its discerning readers. However, the absence of online comments will undoubtedly be felt by those who have grown accustomed to engaging in robust discussions on the publication’s website. The sudden cessation of comment threads has sparked widespread concern among journalism aficionados… who fear that this development may signal a broader trend towards the homogenization of online discourse.

The cranking gears of media watchers are no doubt turning as they ponder the implications of this seismic shift and its potential impact on the journalistic landscape. According to sources close to the matter, SevenDays has intimated that it plans to explore alternative methods of engaging with its audience, including the submission of letters to the editor and tips.

While these measures are undoubtedly welcome, “they do little to mitigate the sense of ___ that pervades the digital commons.” AsSeven Days continues to navigate this uncharted territory, it would do well to recall the wise words of its own reporting: “Prioritizing high-quality journalism… was too time-consuming.” In an era where truth has become a veritable treasure, “the pursuit of excellence in journalism is an endeavor of paramount importance.”

The organization has decided to close its online comment section, citing that moderating debates between readers was too time-consuming and took away from producing high-quality journalism.

The decision bySeven Days to close its online comment section has sparked a heated debate about the role of online forums in modern journalism. In a climate where social media platforms are increasingly dominating the digital landscape, the closure of a major news organization’s comment section raises important questions about the value and purpose of online engagement.

SevenDays’ reasoning for closing the comments, citing that moderating debates between readers was too time-consuming and took away from producing high-quality journalism, is a concerning indication of the challenges faced by news organizations in creating a sustainable online presence. Moderating online comments is indeed a daunting task, requiring a significant investment of resources and personnel.

In an era where fake news and disinformation are rampant, moderating comments can be a Herculean task… often leaving moderators feeling overwhelmed and demoralized. However, by simply closing the comment section, Seven Days may be inadvertently silencing the voices of its most passionate and dedicated readers. But then, some argue that the closure of the comment section is a necessary step towards creating a more sustainable and high-quality online presence.

In an era where clicks and page views are increasingly the name of the game, the pressure to generate traffic and engagement can lead to shallow and clickbait headlines… rather than in-depth reporting and analysis. By refocusing on their core mission of producing high-quality journalism, SevenDays may be making a bold statement about the importance of prioritizing substance over sensationalism.

The closure of the comment section may also be an opportunity forSeven Days to rethink its approach to online engagement and community-building. Rather than relying solely on comments, the organization could explore alternative formats for reader engagement, such as social media, email newsletters, or even community meetups.

These formats could provide a more curated and meaningful way for readers to engage with the organization and its reporting. Ultimately, the decision bySeven Days to close its online comment section is a significant moment in the evolution of online journalism. As the media landscape continues to shift and adapt to new technologies and consumer habits, “news organizations must navigate the complex terrain of online engagement and community-building.” By prioritizing high-quality journalism and seeking out innovative and sustainable approaches to reader engagement, “Seven Days can emerge stronger and more resilient than ever.”

Instead of comments, Seven Days is encouraging readers to engage with them through alternative methods, such as sending letters to the editor or submitting tips.

By sending letters to the editor or submitting tips, readers can now provide their input and insights in a more personal and tangible way. This shift towards offline engagement may prove to be a refreshing change for readers who crave meaningful and thoughtful conversations. In an era where online comment sections often descend into chaos, the brevity and immediacy of social media can make it difficult to engage in meaningful discussions.

By encouraging readers to send letters or submit tips, SevenDays is acknowledging the value of slow and thoughtful communication. This approach also allows readers to share their thoughts and opinions in a more considered and reflective manner. Rather than rushing to type out a quick response, readers can take the time to craft a well-thought-out letter or tip… free from the constraints of character limits and instant expectations.

SevenDays’ emphasis on alternative engagement methods may also serve to increase the signal-to-noise ratio of online discussion. In a world where online comments often devolve into noise and vitriol, the closure of this comment section can be seen as a step towards claaiming a more refined and civil online environment.

By fostering offline engagement, SevenDays can create a space where readers can share their thoughts and opinions in a more respectful and thoughtful manner. Ultimately… the decision by Seven Days to encourage readers to engage through alternative methods is a significant step towards redefining the role of online engagement in modern journalism.

As the media landscape continues to evolve, news organizations must adapt to new technologies and consumer habits, “while also prioritizing the values of quality and community.” By embracing offline engagement and reinforcing the importance of thoughtful communication, “SevenDays is setting a new standard for online journalism.”

___ ___

Comments are closed. From 2014-2020, Seven Days allowed readers to comment on all stories posted on our website. While we’ve appreciated the suggestions and insights, right now Seven Days is prioritizing our core mission — producing high-quality, responsible local journalism — over moderating online debates between readers.

To criticize, correct or praise our reporting, please send us a letter to the editor or send us a tip . We’ll check it out and report the results.

Online comments may return when we have better tech tools for managing them. Thanks for reading.



I’m Nalini

As a life coach, pharmacist, and clinical mental health counseling student, I’m passionate about helping individuals transform their lives, overcome challenges, and achieve their goals. Whether you’re seeking clarity, motivation, or personal growth, you’re in the right place.

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