Purpose

The purpose of this blog is to communicate information of interest and/or concern to the residents of the Swansboro Country Property Owners Association. The Swansboro Sentinel was created by a small group of Swansboro residents for one important reason. We wanted an alternative to the social media sites. We were alarmed that as one of the primary means of mass communication in this community, the tactics used in posts on some social media sites, in our view, did not meet the standards of decency and respect normally associated with neighborly correspondence. These tactics typify a toxic blend of laziness, ignorance, and group-think that are all too common on social media today.

In short, some social media managers do not seem to respect or abide by the rules which they have spelled out in their own charter, nor do they provide the reader with cogent, thoughtful discussion points on a regular basis. Instead, the content of much of these sites is opinion which evokes the image of a group of “grievance collectors” providing a steady stream of self-righteous, self-promoting, self-pitying, self-serving and self-aggrandizing pap.

What’s more, innuendo, ridicule and “ad hominem” attacks tend to create a “chilling effect” on others who for example, may wish to question the decisions and direction of a local board of directors. Also, these tactics are sometimes used by officials as an attempt designed to avoid answering tough questions.

We know there will be reactions on social media to opinions expressed in the Sentinel. When reacting, it might benefit the readers to respond to the ISSUES being discussed rather than the personalities of one’s opponents. In other words, attacks on your opponent’s character or appearance rarely provide an answer to his contentions or questions.

The Swansboro Sentinel will discuss and render opinions on specific issues and hold accountable those elected public officials who claim to represent all residents. The Sentinel believes the best way to assure that these officials are held accountable while respecting the privacy rights of residents is to shine the light of day on all activity, including that which is conducted outside the view of taxpaying and dues-paying residents.

Note: The statements, opinions and comments expressed herein are those of the Author and do not necessarily reflect those of the management, employees, shareholders and owners.