There is a difference between anonymity in a national publication, and anonymity in a local one.  Leonidas and George Mason tend to dominate (i.e., hog) these discussion boards, something they are more likely to do when they don't have to take responsibility for their comments by using their names.  They also are freer to say nasty things.  Leo had one comment removed on this article (plus our response to it, which wouldn't have made any sense without his).  We didn't issue any complaints.

For local discussions people need to be able to man and woman up and take responsibility.  Otherwise, they can dominate discussions and basically intimidate others through having to always have the last word.  

We enjoy reading peoples' reactions to stories.  But once the anonymous people get on them, they get hijacked.  People would be more careful about what they say, how they say it, and how often they say it, if they had the Red Badge of Courage and would give their names.

Cheers!