Ghost of Midnight

Neighbor helping neighbor… but how about debate?

#VT – Most FPF postings are simple items among neighbors… lost dogs, babysitter tips, car break-in reports, free couches and the like.  Many people find this very useful.  Occasionally, neighbors will dive into a controversial local topic on their FPF and the tone will grow heated.  Just as often, people will use their Front Porch Forum for wonderful ends, as demonstrated by this recent Underhill FPF posting from a couple whose house was demolished a few days ago by flash floods…

To all of our family, friends, neighbors, perfect strangers, and fellow community members:  We want to take this opportunity to express our sincerest and most heartfelt thanks for the kindness, support, and pure generosity that you have expressed toward our family. From the tireless assistance of the Underhill/Jericho fire department, to the cupcakes, prayers, smiles, maple syrup, and donations provided by all of your caring hearts, we can honestly say that the past five days of picking through wreckage, shoveling muck, and breathing moldy air has been nothing short of amazing. Thanks to you all! May your generosity be returned ten-fold.

So, of those three classes of postings, most people appreciate the (1) neighborly exchange of announcements, tips, transactions, and stuff.  And nearly everybody loves (2) a heart-warming tale of neighbor helping neighbor.  But some folks are really turned off by (3) neighbors discussing or arguing about hot local topics.  Lots of different perspectives out there!

P.S.  Please pitch in to help the Underhill family here.