On the Plus side

If you have seen the big plus sign in the ads for the Post-Gazette's new subscriber feature, PG+, which started today and is described in a front page story, you might have read my name several times in the small print. My job is to debate Jack Kelly because somebody's got to. The first smackdown was at noon today.

This is a daring venture that breaks new ground for the industry and I am an enthusiastic participant. So is Jack. In fact, this particular online debate was his idea. It is an extension of the election night back-and-forth we did together in the past. Our dirty secret is that, while our politics are repulsive to each other, we like each other on a personal level. I don't think that should spoil the fun.

While senior management should take the credit for PG+, and, of course, all the blame if it fails, the fundamental idea is one that I put forth in a column a few months ago - give those customers willing to pay something some extra value. Readers can interract while the debate goes on. which should supply its own entertainment value. Here's your chance, MyReply, to take your signature grumpiness to the source. Toadlsey, Little Minx, thescarletpimpernel, callsigntourist, et al, your wit and wisdom is needed. Go to www.post-gazette.com/plus.

I will still write this blog - the entries may get shorter because of time constraints but I am sure that will be a blessing, brevity as always being the soul of wit. Besides, people who respond to this blog now don't seem to care much what I write - they just use it as a meeting place to discuss their own issues.

We are not asking much, just $36 a year or $3.99 a month. You could spend more at Starbucks on a single day and get less juiced by caffeine. See you on the other side of the curtain where fun and excitement reign. We hope.