Web Chats

Web Dialogues - FAQS

On the Online Discussion

Q: What is the Online Discussion?
A: The Online Discussion encourages people to talk about a wide range of topics over the Internet. The discussion allows for debate and the sharing of ideas related to U.S. Policy and our Local Area.

Q: Who can participate in the discussion?
A: The Online Discussion is open for all to participate in. Inappropriate posts will not be posted online, in accordance with our guidelines.

Q: How long does a discussion last?
A: A typical discussion will be open for about two weeks, though it may vary depending on the nature of the program. You can submit a comment at any time during the open period. Once a discussion closes, comments can not be submitted but the discussion can still be viewed online.

On Background Information

Q: Where can I find related articles and stories to the discussion topic?
A: For related articles and stories, please refer to your selected discussion's homepage. On the page, there will be a "Related Items" box under which you will be able to find articles and links.

Q: Where can I view previous discussions?
A: Closed discussions can be viewed at the bottom of the Online Discussion page.

On Participating in the Online Discussion

Q: What are the minimum requirements for my system to participate in a discussion?
A: This discussion is based on HTML webpage format. For this reason, the bandwidth required to participate is minimal. There is no software to be downloaded into the workstation, so any apprehension related to security on your LAN has been addressed.

Q: How do I post a comment?
A: When a discussion is open, you may submit a question using the Post a Comment link. The form will ask for your name, location and message. Once submitted, the comment is reviewed by a moderator before appearing online.

Q: Why is my comment not online?
A: Comments may take a few hours to appear online. In addition, the moderator may choose not to post profane or offensive comments, in accordance with our guidelines.

On Discussing with Others

Q: Can I send messages to other discussion participants?
A: No, the online discussion program does not allow for participants to contact each other directly.

Q: How do I send a message just to the moderator and not to be posted online?
A: Unfortunately, the moderator is not able to respond to individual messages.