It may be hard to believe, but it’s already time to acknowledge the top commentators for August 2008. As I’ve said before, the people who take the time out of their day to not only read my blog posts, but to also respond to them via the comment form… well, these people are what make blogging worthwhile. After all, a blog is a two-way conversation, not a one-way speech.

You’ll notice that the top commentators for last month look a lot like the top commentators that Beyond the Rhetoric had in July 2008. I’m glad that I have this kind of loyal reader base, but at the same time, it’s always a thrill when I see a new visitor leave a comment as well. If this is one of your first visits to Beyond the Rhetoric, I encourage you to introduce yourself through the comment form below.

So, how did August’s commentators do? Well, the total count among the top five talkers is a little lower than the month before, but you’ll still notice that there was an intense (and last minute) battle to take the top spot. A little competition always brings out the best in all of us.

Proudly sitting at the top spot for August 2008 is Dan Rinnert of dcrBlogs.com. He’s currently ranting about comment spam, more specifically of the naked Tila Tequila type. Even though Akismet didn’t catch it, moderation did. That’s also why I moderate my comments too.

Slipping into the second spot is Jorge of 2magicminds.com. He was the top commentator for at least two months in a row, but he was narrowly edged out by Dan for August. Jorge happens to know a thing or two about staying social online, including networks like hi5. It’s not just about Facebook and MySpace, you know.

The bronze medal goes to Nick of romandock.com. I would link to one of his most recent blog posts, but Nick has decided to disappear for about a month. In the eternal words of Arnold Schwarzenegger, he’ll be back.

Although fourth place doesn’t get you a medal at the Olympics, it does get you a link on What’s Up Wednesdays. Betshopboy nabs that special spot in this list and he happens to be celebrating a rather incredible milestone. His blog just turned one year old. Here’s to many more years of blogging!

Bringing up the rear with the fifth and final spot is Paulette of lovermus.com. She may not have a blog on her website, but she this lover of music has a wide selection of tune-filled entertainment. I’m a particularly big fan of Viva La Vida by Coldplay. Those songs are just so soothing.