Since August, we here at the Tribune have allowed readers to comment on many of the stories that are posted on our Web site. It’s been a learning experience.
We treat the comments a bit differently than some newspapers -- we allow people to be completely anonymous; we approve all comments prior to them going up online.
From time to time we receive complaints that basically say: “My comment wasn’t posted. Why not?” We would gladly respond to in individual cases, but because 90 percent of those posting remain anonymous, there is no way to respond.
So, here are a few things to keep in mind. Your comment most likely will be rejected if it: Contains any foul language (sorry, typing one letter and dashes is the same as using foul language); contains Web addresses or phone numbers (we don’t have the time to verify those); attacks a person (comments about a person’s ideas are fine); contains potentially libelous statements; or is completely off topic.
Approving comments is not an exact science. And sometimes an error can be made in the process. If you really think you comment should have been posted and wasn’t, ask why. Just remember to include an e-mail address so we can respond.
Oh, and while we don’t it now, we eventually may require you to include your e-mail address or we may require a formal registration before allowing someone to comment.

I have been watching with much interest the issue about non-partisan elections for Fremont city officials.
You need to know I am not a member of any political party, so the issue impacts me personally.
Fremont is the only city of its size or larger in Nebraska that uses a partisan system. That system effectively keeps some voters from having any say on who will represent them. Those who blame that on parties should remember that the parties aren’t necessarily interested in city elections; the parties have an eye on state and national offices.
The goal here should be to provide voters with a choice of candidates come the general election. While non-partisan elections won’t assure that, they will go a long way to making it happen.
Political parties do have a place in the United States and should continue to play a key role in determining who our elected officials are for state and national offices. But until the parties take a more local focus, non-partisan city elections serve voters best.

I’ve spend the past couple of evenings listening to architects and contractors who want to work with Fremont Public Schools on a list of proposed projects.
Administrators and school board members are thinking about the future by considering additions to Linden and Clarmar elementary schools, Fremont High School and the possible construction of a new fifth- and sixth-grade school to would help create space in the elementary schools.
When the last bond issue was passed in 2000, one of its goals was to prepare the district to handle 4,600 students. Well, we reached that number this past school year and enrollments -- especially in elementary schools -- have been increasing.
Now the district is planning for 5,400 students.
I’ve been impressed with the thought that is going into how the administration and school board is going about in addressing the future needs of the district. It’s unfortunate that those who always condemn our elected officials for not planning ahead aren’t checking in to see how the process is working. This administration and board really does have an eye on the future. It’s time someone noticed.

Last week I got the chance to visit with Vicki Potadle after an EF1 tornado struck her family's farmstead north of Herman. She calmly was going about daily household business while waiting for her electricity to be restored. As she chatted with me about the previous day's experience, she mentioned that she usually keeps a "tornado" box in her basement complete with a chance of clothes for each family member, water, food -- you know, all of the things emergency planners tell you to keep handy.

It's a good idea, really, and I got to thinking if I would be ready in case of a tornado. Or even if I'm ready if I had to live without electricty for several days. In short, the answer is no. I'm not prepared. I'm willing to bet I'm not the only one.

Region 5-6 Emergency Managment sent out an emergency preparedness checklist a while ago. For some reason the magnet rests on a file cabinet in my office -- not at home. A family emergency kit should include non-perishable food, fresh bottled water, first aid kit, prescription medicines, hygiene supplies, extra clothing, utility tools, medical records, important documents, pet supplies, family calling tree, portable radio and flash lights, assorted batteries and evacuation plans.

It's a good idea to be ready. Vicki Potadle and her family was lucky because their home received little damage, but they've prepared for times like last week. Isn't time for all of us to get ready?

Just before Memorial Day, we published our annual Your Guide to Summer Fun edition of Your Guide, our weekly entertainment and television section. It had plenty of ideas for those few precious moments during the summer when you can get away and do something with the entire family.

For me, the highlight of the summer typically is John C. Fremont Days. There is such a variety of things to do. Then again, having Fremont Lakes State Recreation Area within a few minutes drive is great. I can think of no better way to connect with nature than visiting the Lakes.

But maybe I'm missing something. Are there places right here that I can spend the day -- or at least a few hours -- so that I don't spend an entire tank of gas getting there and back?

Share your ideas. I promise to do a better job of keeping up with your comments.