The Sequim Gazette now utilizes Facebook to allow readers to post comments. Starting today, readers will be able to post comments solely through their Facebook accounts. Any logged-in Facebook user will be able to comment on stories, encouraging people to use their real identity and increase their social engagement with our website. Facebook currently has more than 800 million users worldwide.

The news industry is clearly moving away from anonymous commenting, and we are proud to be in the vanguard. This is not an endorsement of Facebook per se, but at present their comment system offers the best way to ensure an environment of decorum and mutual respect amongst readers who participate in our news sites. That, we believe, is ultimately good for both The Sequim Gazette and the Sequim community.

To sign up for Facebook go to www.Facebook.com. Through linking with Facebook, users can easily "like" a story or recommend a story to their Facebook friends and subscribers.

If you want to participate in discussing a news item or community issue but do not want to sign up for Facebook you can still write a Letter to the Editor.

Thank you for your participation.

The Sequim Gazette