First, the fact that you state in your own blog that you've challenged many to "a physical duel in person" should give you enough reason why people might be hesitant to give you their names. Seriously. Far too much anger in you Carl.

Interesting points Carl. We've had a slew of noxious bloggers on the Patch- some sound like they need professional help (in non PC they are nuts). Real names should be required and I think the level of the comments will 'reside' with that person. Another point is that 'instant' replies are not always better and a few moments spent thinking and measuring a response would be a big help. People who accuse others of racism, sexism and all the other 'isms' should stand by their remarks with their names. Good blog Carl.

I have many reasons for not using my name, none of them is cowardice. The primary reason is that my name is none of your business until I decide it is. I doubt that insults, bullying or challenges from a blogger will sway that position much.

I am a private person. I don’t introduce myself to people on the street or at Dunkin Donuts, even if we chat for a moment. I don’t introduce myself to the guy next to me at a Red Sox game or at a fireworks display, even if I have an opinion to share.

My name is mine and I’ll share it when and with whom I please.

If a forum is set up where you have to use your real name, then those are the rules. If you don't/can't use your real name, then you don't get to participate. If you go onto a forum that allows aliases, then it is different. Your expectations in each respective forum will certainly be different.

I have used my real name here and in other forums. I have never used an alias. I respect those that feel the need to use an alias until they start attacking people for their beliefs. Then I consider it cowardice. If they are normally conversing, then that is OK.

I agree completely with Joe Kane. Somebody pinch me!

But I was being nice, Joe Kane! Niiiice! Happy Holidays to you, too!

I've witnessed my first holiday miracle!!!! Happy Holiday to all!

I agree with Joe too that if Patch allows anonymous posters, then readers beware. With that being said I have to admit that before the elections I pretty much stopped reading the Patch because of all the nasty, ridiculous comments posted by anonymous posters. I think it is true that people would be more civil and less likely to post unsubstanciated facts if they publicly had to defend the integrity of their comments. I also believe too that sometimes people have to be anonymous if they are an inside whistle blower. Still, I think most of the anonymous postings on the Patch are of the blowhard variety.

"I have challenged several masked men, most notably the widly egotistical Mr. Milford, to an intellectual or a physical duel in person. He is a coward and has kept his anonymity."

Carl, please explain exactly what this sentence means. Are you claiming you have sent me a challenge in the past? If so, show it, linked to it. Do you mean this blog post is that challenge? Please define exactly what you mean by "physical duel in person." I want to know exactly what it is you are threatening me with. Please be very clear. Pretend I am as stupid as you like to think I am, and clarify what you are saying.