Sound off and take part in the conversation

It's a new year and a great time to take stock of what's going on at the Daily Bee and especially on this page.

The Daily Bee believes in having a strong editorial voice. As publisher, sometimes the Bee's View, or editorial, is my opinion. Other times, managing editor Caroline Lobsinger or news editor Keith Kinnaird pen their opinions as the Bee's View.

Something I have always believed in, is that people should own their opinions. That is why we sign our editorials and we insist letter writers do the same.

We are proud of the participation on our Opinion page. One never knows what subject will appear on this very popular page.

On Page 4 readers have witnessed that this paper is opposed to the Rock Creek Mine. Readers also know the Bee believes the Sand Creek Byway is the best, fundable option to eliminate interstate truck traffic from downtown Sandpoint.

Even though we have staked out these semi-controversial stands on the editorial page, this has never gotten in the way of fair and objective news reporting on these topics on Page 1.

We have always welcomed opposing opinions and the Opinion page is a perfect place for discussion.

In this time of desktop journalism where anyone with a laptop can produce a blog or a freebie paper, it is important for all consumers of news to consider the source when reading news or opinions.

The Daily Bee is proud to be this area's leading source of local news and views in print and online.

As we all embark into 2008, I wanted to use this space to remind our readers of the importance we place on having this continuing dialog on this Opinion page with all of you.

Please continue to share your thoughts with us in this new year and we'll do the same.

David Keyes is publisher of the Daily Bee.