I generally like Facebook as it allows for efficient communication with others of similar interest. In most cases, the most communication is with friends (old and new) that you may not physically see very often for whatever reason.
Recently I have seen a lot of group pages popping up re: things specific to Folsom. I can certainly appreciate the benefit of having a group that would allow geographic neighbors to communicate. I would love to go door to door and meet all my Folsomites, but its just not practical with my schedule. Some of my friends I see regularly are speaking often about the happenings within these groups. Among those mentioned are the following;
Folsom Watch, Folsom Chat, Folsom Findings, Folsom Exchange, Folsom-Free / Pay it Forward, Folsom Cordova Education Association, Folsom High School PTSA, Folsom Community Builders, Folsom High School Wrestling, Folsom Lake Rotary Club
The oddity (in my mind) is that of those listed above (again just a sample) only 2 of the 10 listed are NOT closed groups? In the interest of sharing with folks of common interest, wouldn't an open group that allowed and encouraged participation be more effective? I just cringe when I match words like watch, chat, exchange and community with closed? Isn't it tough to "build community" in a group that is closed?
People (group administrators) have their reasons for doing what they do and while I may not understand them, I respect them. Personally, I have specifically chosen to not be part of any closed group. It's based on a deep seeded gut feeling carried over from childhood. I was raised to not have a lot of trust in things that were done in secrecy. The idea that you join a closed group that is concealed from public view just doesn't sit right. If it can't be said in public, maybe it shouldn't be said.
Looking to hear other folks thoughts.....here in the OPEN topic! HAHA