It was extremely interesting to see the number of reader comments that flowed in to our Web site in response to our stories this week about the drug searches at Monroe High School and Monroe Alternative Charter School.

Good questions were asked. Good points were raised.

But some of the discussion devolved into personal, finger-pointing battles between respondents. Some of it was interesting, and even a little enlightening. But after a while, it started to get a little old and counterproductive.

Part of my job as editor of the Times online site is to monitor the comments that come in, and determine whether they are suitable for posting. Another job, apparently, is to play referee between readers who are fighting. Like a boxing official, I need to use my judgment on when it's time to stop the fight.

I've called the fight on the drug search issue. The back-and-forth between a few particular readers has run its course, and I've rejected the most recent retort.

Of course, I'm still interested in receiving comments about the issues related to the drug searches, or about our coverage of the story. But I think we'll put an end to the debate about how well people spell or use grammar in their posts.

Come to think of it, that might make for an interesting blog topic. But it'll have to wait until next week.

Have a great weekend! It'd better not snow!