The CSX/Blogging article ran in today's Ledger. I think John Chambliss did a good job with the write-up. The article looked more at the overall issue of hyperlocal blogging rather than the specific development of the CSX story itself. Here are a few random thoughts:

- Susan McManus from USF states that blogs are a form of activism. That's not always the case and it's not always good to make broad generalizations about what a blog is or isn't. A large number of people who blog aren't interested in activism.

- While blogs helped push the overall dialogue of the story, much of the true groundwork was done by Billy Townsend of the Tampa Tribune. If you want a review of how the CSX story developed online click here.

- One of the benefits of blogs is long-term search relevance. While there may be short-term discussion around a post, it's the long-term visitors that can add up. Do a Google search for 'winter haven csx project'. What comes up first? Probably something from the Winter Haven Chamber. That's the true power of blogs.

- The photo of me was taken late on a Saturday at Richard's Coffee....a slow time. Generally there are more people in there :-)

- Of course the story does feature a picture of me 'blogging'. That's what's always funny about stories like this. The photographer shows up and says, "I'm supposed to get some shots of you blogging......so blog." Looks exciting doesn't it.

- Also, for the record, I am in favor of the CSX project. I just think it needs to go through the proper channels for approval.