There’s been a lot of debate lately about anonymity on the Internet and the use of real names, particularly from Facebook. The argument is that people who are anonymous are more likely to harass others, bully, post hateful speech, and so on, because they’re able to hide behind a pseudonym or fake identity. MORE >>

San Diego-based SkinIt , the maker of protective "skins" for electronic devices, said today that it has expanded its leadership team. The firm--which is backed by ABS Capital Partners, said that Laura Christine is its EVP Consumer Group; Jennifer Jordan its VP of Finance; John P. billion. READ MORE>>. MORE >>

Gone are the days of heading to your local video store and snatching up a cool indie flick or two to pair up with your take out and your summer blockbuster action flick. Netflix, Hulu, and even YouTube and other content streaming sites have all but obliterated the independent DVD rental business of yesterday. The folks over at Blip.tv To date, Blip.tv MORE >>

San Diego-based TakeLessons , a business which helps users connect with music and voice lesson teachers across the country, said this week that it has raised $6M in a funding round. The round was led by Crosslink Capital, and also included SoftTech VC and other angels. Eric Chin of Crosslink Capital joins the company's board as part of the funding. MORE >>

Santa Monica-based SolarReserve , the developer of utility scale solar power projects, said Wednesday that it has amended an agreement with Nevada's Nye County and its Tonopah Solar Energy affiliate, to require 90 percent of the construction workforce on that project will come from Nevada residents. READ MORE>>. MORE >>