Hi Rick: You can read more about why we switched to this commenting system that allows pseudonyms here http://www.civilbeat.org/2016/05/trolls-beware-civil-beat-has-a-new-commenting-system/ but generally we are trying it for awhile to see if it encourages people who normally wouldn't comment to join the discussion. We've heard from many people over the years that they don't want to post using their name (the old Facebook comment system) because frankly they didn't want to be attacked just for stating an opinion. That happens a lot, as you know. Studies also show that women are particularly subject to online stalking and harassment. So we're trying this out. Please take a minute and fill out the survey at the end of this story. We're interested in how people like this new system. Thanks!