Archive for June, 2010
TBD Community Network will provide lots of news and variety
Posted by sbuttry in Partnerships on June 25, 2010
An important feature of the site we are planning will be our TBD Community Network: local blogs and sites whose work we will highlight.
We are pleased that in our first week of recruiting, nearly 40 Washington area blogs and sites have decided to become part of our network. While that number will grow in the weeks ahead, it already provides a glimpse of the lively, diverse community news you will be able to find when you visit TBD. Members of our network have posted more than 300 blog entries this week, providing original news stories, videos, reviews and commentary that will become a TBD staple.
Our bloggers feature community reporting at the neighborhood level from Maryland, Virginia and Washington and reporting on interests such as sports, dining and entertainment. The network features veteran bloggers as well as newcomers. Dining in DC celebrated its third anniversary Tuesday, the same day that Hold the Chicken launched. Network members engage effectively with their communities. A simple story and photo of a traffic accident involving an “adorable” car drew 19 comments (when I looked; it may be more now) on The Georgetown Metropolitan. When you read our network blogs, be sure to check the lively discussion in their comments.
More than two dozen of our bloggers provided fresh content this week and 10 of them posted more than 10 times. This sampling showcases the quantity, quality and variety of information and insight the network will share with TBD users:
Local news
We Love DC called on the Metro dancer featured on a viral YouTube video (more than 157,000 views Friday morning) to identify himself, then published a Q&A with Bob Grannan, the dancer.
Speaking of the Metro, Unsuck DC Metro observed the anniversary of last year’s fatal crash with a simple post listing the names and ages of the victims.
ARLnow covered life in Arlington, ranging from a comparison of welfare spending to neighboring communities to voting for the cutest dog.
The Anti DC blogged about bike lanes on Pennsylvania Avenue.
Annandale VA provided an examination of the challenge pedestrians face in the Tysons Corner area.
Frozen Tropics reported on several developments in the wake of a Sunday fire at the Argonaut, an H Street bar.
I Spy Things DC reported on C-SPAN’s plans for a partnership with Foursquare to provide educational tips about places in the Washington area.
Life in the Village reported on a meeting that examined traffic, lighting and other issues relating to the Fairfax Village neighborhood of Washington.
LoCo Musings reported on the opening of King Pinz bowling alley in Leesburg.
The Georgetown Metropolitan reported on new liquor licenses being issued in the neighborhood.
And Now, Anacostia featured photos of four homes in a single block being renovated.
Rockville Central reported on downed power lines that held up traffic on Interstate 270.
Metro Etiquette gave advice on spotting and avoiding Metro cars with faulty air conditioning.
The Other 35 Percent profiled Zoning Commission nominee Stan Wall.
Borderstan previewed this weekend’s Safeway’s National Capital BBQ Battle.
State news
Maryland Reporter covered an audit that found serious problems at the State Board of Elections.
Old Dominion Watchdog questions Governor McDonnell’s government reform commission.
Dining
Eat More Drink More was one of several of out network members to blog on President Obama’s summit with Russian President Dmitry Medvedev at Ray’s Hell Burger. DC Loves Food took a different approach, reviewing other burger joints, for diners who don’t want to brave the crowds at Ray’s.
Robyn Webb’s Fabulous Food Finds celebrated Italian foods, sharing a recipe for fennel, orange and black olive salad, noting that you can get Italian ingredients locally at the Italian Store.
Bitches Who Brunch reviewed J&G Steakhouse (a restaurant that “oozes DC power”).
Arts and entertainment
All Our Noise previewed a mixtape release performance of Tabi Bonney’s “A Place Called Stardom.”
ReadysetDC covered the opening of “The Urban Romantic” exhibit at Irvine Contemporary.
DC Style Spot reported the cancellation of the Go-Gos’ concert at Wolf Trap.
Sports
Nats Insider Mark Zuckerman, former Washington Nationals beat writer for the Washington Times, addressed the pressing question of whether Stephen Strasburg might and should make the National League All-Star team. That post prompted lively discussion with 23 comments when I checked.
Nationals Daily News presented dueling posts saying why Strasburg should and shouldn’t be an All-Star.
Nationals Fangirls provided some encouragement for a struggling pitcher, Jon Lannan.
Live in Red analyzed the just-released schedule for the Washington Capitals’ 2010-11 season, already predicting which games the Caps would win in their first 10 (forecasting an 8-1-1 start).
DC Landing Strip also looked ahead to the Caps’ season, speculating on the odds of various players winning awards next season, predicting that Alex Ovechkin would finish a close second to Henrik Sedin for the Hart Memorial Trophy.
Lifestyle
Quarter Life reviewed the consignment shopping offerings of Current Boutique in Arlington.
You could be next
If your blog or site covers local news and issues in the Washington metro area, we would like to talk with you about possibly joining the TBD Community Network. Email me at sbuttry (at) tbd.com, and we’ll tell you more about the network.
TBD Community Network continues to grow
Posted by Daniel Victor in Partnerships on June 25, 2010
We’ve been rolling out our TBD Community Network this week – see our other batches of blogs – and we’re not slowing down. This next flock of eight puts us up to 32, and we have many more that we’re waiting to announce. Keep checking back, because they’re coming in like gangbusters.
Bitches Who Brunch
They Say: Becca and Cori Sue are brunching their way around Washington, D.C.
We Say: These lovely ladies do more than just brunch. They cook, shop and chat about the DC area food scene. Check them out for hottest food news and latest trends.
DC Like A Local
They Say: DC Like a Local gives you highly subjective, totally biased, and possibly useful tips for getting the most out of a visit to DC.
We Say: Tour guide and history buff Tim Krepp highlights museums, monuments, and events both off the beaten track and also in the thick of the tourist hordes. Check out his ranking of the top 10 museums for kids.
LoCo Market Stats
They Say: Info and stats on the Loudoun County real estate market.
We Say: If you’re buying, selling or living in a Loudoun County property, this is the place for hard data on local home sales and prices. Realtor Heather Elias posts charts and explanations that take you inside the latest real estate trends.
LoCo Musings
They Say: All about life and real estate in Loudoun County, Virginia.
We Say: Heather Elias, a web-savvy Realtor and resident in Loudoun County, shares news about what’s happening in the area, in addition to real estate trends. Heather has received several awards for her innovative use of blogging in real estate.
Metro Etiquette
They Say: The insider’s guide to riding the DC Metro with tips, tricks, and stories of how to ride metro without upsetting “the locals.”
We Say: Where’s the best place to wheel your luggage when you get on Metro? Is it appropriate to read over someone’s shoulder during your commute? Christine Brazill answers these questions and more in this blog designed with both tourists and seasoned Metro cynics in mind.
Nationals Daily News
They Say: Nationals Daily News has covered the Nats since ‘05, featuring news links, nine blogs, and original multimedia reporting from the ballpark.
We Say: Officially credentialed by the Nationals, they offer exhaustive game reports and photos aside professional-quality commentary. The variety of bloggers here make sure every base is covered, and every viewpoint heard.
Nats Insider
They Say: News, analysis and commentary from someone who has covered the Washington Nationals since Day 1.
We Say: Mark Zuckerman, who wrote for the Washington Times from 2001 to 2009 and the Nats beat reporter for five years, migrated his expertise from print to his own blog. Talk about fan support: When he needed to raise money to cover Spring Training, his readers chipped in over $10,000 in less than a month.
Staying Medium
They Say: Countering irrational euphoria or despair with a level-headed look at the Washington Redskins.
We Say: Dave O thinks before he types, offering intelligent discussion that seeks to rise above knee-jerk reactions. That doesn’t mean he’ll pull punches, though.
Not done yet: more DC blogs join the TBD Community Network
Posted by Lisa Rowan in Partnerships on June 24, 2010
Did you think we were done with just 16 blogs for the Community Network? Oh no, my friends. We’re still going. Here are 8 more for the roster, including some foodie blogs that will have your mouth watering!
Borderstan
They Say: Borderstan covers DC’s Dupont, Logan and U Street neighborhoods: news, business, crime, arts & entertainment, food, politics & government.
We Say: This is a great blog covering some of the hottest neighborhoods of NW. A recent redesign brings a clean and professional appearance, and Matt and Luis work very hard capturing stories and great photos. Plus, they’re super fun to hang out with.
DC Landing Strip
They Say: Unfiltered DC Sports commentary by die-hard local fans. Political correctness is not in our vocabularies.
Dining in DC
They Say: Dining in DC is a blog about the latest in the DC area restaurant scene, including restaurant reviews, news, events, and chef interviews.
We Say: Lisa Shapiro offers the latest and greatest in DC’s exciting dining scene. Whether you’re in search of a new restaurant or craving the hottest restaurant gossip, Dining in DC will never leave you hungry.
EatMore DrinkMore
They Say: A team food blog serving the Greater Washington D.C. area, with restaurant reviews, news, recipes and general awesomeness
We Say: What’s better than eating and drinking? MORE eating and drinking! That’s what Chad Clay and his team at EatMore DrinkMore are hoping to help you do. They’ve got the latest scoop on restaurants, bars and all things related to food and drinks in the DC metropolitan area.
Every Food Fits
They Say: Every Food Fits provides easy recipes, health info & introduces you to D.C. chefs who discuss the role nutrition plays in their kitchens.
We Say: Living a healthier and more delicious lifestyle has never been easier. Stacey Viera offers tasty health tips, simple recipes and a glimpse into lives of local chefs. Registered Dietitian Samantha Lewandowski is also on hand for nutritional facts and figures.
Hold the Chicken
They Say: A picky eater challenges the DC metro area restaurant scene to satisfy her palate and demands.
We Say: Kiera Wiatrak shares her tales of being a picky eater in a city exploding with a vast array of ethnic cuisine. Read her adventures as she expands her palate and explores what D.C. has to offer.
Metrocurean
They Say: Metropolitan style meets epicurean living on Metrocurean, the go-to resource for food and restaurant news, tips and trends in the DC area.
We Say: Metrocurean is a must-read for all DC area foodies and those looking for a little insider restaurant news. Food writer Amanda McClements offers valuable tips and interesting Q and As with local chefs, restaurateurs and those connected to the food world, through her weekly blog feature, “Five Bites.”
Quarter Life
They Say: The Beltway’s Best Vintage and Thrift
We Say: Funny story, really. Quarter Life is the side project of community engagement staffer Lisa Rowan (that’s me!). Being part of a start-up means being willing to test everything out—including membership in our community network. I hope to be a trusted resource for network members as our blogs develop alongside TBD.
More bloggers joining the club
Posted by Lisa Rowan in Partnerships on June 23, 2010
Yesterday we announced the first batch of bloggers who will be a part of the TBD Community Network. We are pleased to announce the following blogs who have most recently signed on. Check ‘em out, and look for more to come!
Annandale, VA
They Say: A local news blog about Annandale, VA, covering redevelopment, businesses, restaurants, schools, parks, transportation, and neighborhoods.
We Say: Ellie Ashford writes an impressive blog that is a must-read for anyone in Annandale, and we’re excited to work with her to bring it to the largest audience possible.
DC StyleSpot
They Say: From fashion events to celebrity functions, from tourist treasures to late-night pleasures, DC StyleSpot provides you with quick insights into all things hip in Washington DC.
We Say: If you can’t make it to the area’s events for the fashionista crowd, trust Steve Fox and DC StyleSpot to give you video highlights and interviews. It’s almost like you were there.
Fabulous Food Finds
They Say: Fabulous Food Finds presents 3 times a week a wonderful and useful food product or kitchen tool to make your life tastier and easier.
We Say: Tired of the same old recipes with the same old ingredients? Nutritionist and culinary instructor Robyn Webb highlights exciting new dishes, fun tools, and helpful cooking tips.
Frozen Tropics
They Say: A look at what’s going on in the Trinidad neighborhood, on H Street, and in the larger area north of Capitol Hill.
We Say: Elise Bernard knows the heck out of this community and has been blogging it for almost six years. We’re very excited to feature her work for TBD users in the area.
i spy things DC
They Say: A daily dose of fashion, events, snacks and life from our Nation’s Capital
We Say: Like that tricky “potpourri” category that shows up in Jeopardy every now and then, the DC Spy is all over the place. But features like free event listings and a map of reviewed spots make the blog a good one to bookmark for when you can’t decide what to do on your day off.
Life in the Village
They Say: A diary of a 30-something living in the Fairfax Village section of Hillcrest.
We Say: Veronica Davis brings her expertise as a urban planner/civil engineer to this blog about development and community events in Hillcrest or Fairfax Village, Southeast DC. Veronica is very in touch with the community’s vibe and watches out for its image and well-being.
The Frozen Fix
They Say: Homemade ice cream, sorbet and frozen yogurt recipes for the culinary adventurist.
We Say: Whether you’re in need of a creamy treat, or in search of something icy to cool off in the Washington heat, Jessica Sidman offers refreshing recipes that’ll bring a little sweetness to your day.
The Georgetown Metropolitan
They say: The Georgetown Metropolitan is an online news source for Georgetown, covering transportation, real estate, retail, zoning, and much more.
We say: Topher Mathews does an impressive job of tracking news in Georgetown, with quick-hit morning updates on significant news for residents and bigger posts and compelling photos about news and life in the close-knit community.
TBD partners with CityShopGirl
Posted by Jeff Sonderman in Partnerships on June 23, 2010
We’re very proud to announce that TBD is partnering with CityShopGirl to bring you exciting fashion and shopping coverage in the DC area, including discounts and events.
Kelly Collis Fredrick
More about CSG from Kelly’s announcement: “CityShopGirl launched in October 2008 as a daily email, Monday-Friday, with just a few hundred subscribers and today we reach a targeted audience of thousands of women in DC. We provide the latest of things to do in DC, often with exclusive deals and promotions, from shopping to spas. Over the last year, we have expanded our content with more blog postings on fashion and shopping and hosting fun events with local vendors like our annual scavenger hunt and Sex & the City Party last month.”
Be sure to look for Kelly on TBD.com when it launches this summer, and in the meantime sign up for the newsletter.
Bloggers Welcome Here
Posted by Lisa Rowan in Partnerships on June 22, 2010
The time has finally come to announce the first batch of blogs and sites galore that have signed up to be a part of the TBD Community Network. When we launch, you’ll see posts from the following blogs highlighted on TBD.com. We’re happy to have them and hope that you’ll become fans of these blogs just as we hope you’ll eventually make TBD your homepage. May we introduce, in alphabetical order:
All Our Noise
They Say: A curated showcase of the city’s music and music-related culture, presented through exclusive video sessions, interviews & live performances.
We Say: When we asked All Our Noise what type of music it focused on, the writers couldn’t give a straight answer. We can’t blame them; with a group of writers who hold diverse music collections, it’s impossible to pin down a favorite genre. Instead, All Our Noise embraces the many varieties of music you might be listening to right now.
And N
ow, Anacostia
They Say: A source of neighborhood promotion, education, and excitement about the beautiful and historic Anacostia neighborhood.
We Say: Led by David Garber, And Now, Anacostia is a fine example of how conscientious residents can cover their own neighborhoods by observing, sharing and discussing on a blog.
ARLNow
They Say: ARLnow.com is the up-to-the-minute source for breaking news, community happenings and local government updates in Arlington County, Virginia.
We Say: It’s no secret that Scott Brodbeck, 24/7 Arlington reporter, was first on board the TBD boat. When he’s not out gathering news, he’s working on his events calendar—or chowing down at TBD events.
Capitol Bites
They Say: A 20-something that is figuring out how to eat well (and often) on a budget.
We Say: Living and working in Washington, D.C. can definitely be a bit pricey. But dining out doesn’t always have a take a toll on your wallet. Elyse Greenberg shares the details of eating out and rubbing (greasy) elbows with high-powered politicians, lobbyists and lawyers on a budget.
Live in Red
They Say: A Washington Capitals Blog focusing on the non-traditional aspects of the Washington Capitals and their AHL affiliate, the Hershey Bears.
We Say: Alex Ball was a track and field athlete during college, but he’s been a Caps fan since he got a Peter Bondra jersey for Christmas in 1998. Live in Red only launched during this season’s playoffs, but there are plenty of posts to keep you informed.
Rockville Central
They Say: News and views on Rockville, MD
We Say: Brad Rourke and Cindy Cotte Griffiths keep Rockville from getting lost among the other news in the region by highlighting news stories alongside opinion pieces and guest commentary. Rockville Central just celebrated its third birthday.
The Other 35 Percent
They Say: News and Notes on Life in D.C. With Occasional Random Musings
We Say: A blog by Cary Silverman that does an excellent job covering local politics in the District and other local policy issues that affect development and quality of life.
We Love DC
They Say: We Love DC is the largest locally-owned DC news and lifestyle blog, covering News, Sports, Food, Transit, Politics and Music for all of DC.
We Say: Remember when the best place to meet your neighbors was at a block party? Imagine having all those friendly neighbors giving you the scoop on one website. This collaborative effort has top news, neighborhood profiles, and, my personal favorite: DC Mythbusting. Check out the Q and A with the Metro dancer!
Look for your favorite local blogs when we launch later this summer. If you’re a blogger who wants to take part, let us know. Welcome, blogs and bloggers!
Top 5 Questions at TECH Cocktail
Posted by Lisa Rowan in Events on June 18, 2010
Lux Lounge was packed last night for TECH Cocktail. It was loud. But many of the attendees visited our table to talk to our staffers, learn about our efforts, and maybe even take home a T-shirt. (These shirts are pretty hot right now. Look for one on someone you know!)
TECH Cocktail also brought up the toughest questions we’ve received so far. I give a lot of credit to the guy who said to me, “I think local news is boring.” I gave him my e-mail address and told him to let me know what he thinks once we launch. If we can get him interested in local news, then we’re doing our job. Instead of being nervous about his response (okay, maybe I’m a little nervous), I’m looking forward to his thoughts. What’s a good project if it doesn’t present a challenge every now and then?
In case you missed it or didn’t get to talk to us, here’s a run-down of the most commonly asked questions last night.
Top Five Questions asked at TECH Cocktail:
5. What’s TBD? That’s an easy one. TBD will be your new home for local news, both on TBD.com and TV’s NewsChannel 8. If you want to know what’s going on in your part of the region, we’ll be your first stop for the story.
4. Will you have original reporting, or are you just an aggregator? We’ll be much more than an aggregator. We’d rather you call us a collaborator, as we’ll be using our own original reporting as well as the views of the community to paint the most complete picture of the news in our area. If you have a blog and want to be a part of our network, let us know.
3. How many people are on staff? We’ve got about 25 people right now, among them editors, community engagement staffers, and reporters starting to trickle in. When we launch, we expect to have a staff of almost 50.
2. What makes TBD different? TBD recognizes that local blogs and independent news websites need to be acknowledged as legitimate sources of information. We hate when people wrinkle their noses when they say “blogger.” We’re embracing the trend, both by aggregating local blog posts and by working together with bloggers in workshops, and on special events held on the web, TV, or live and in person.
1. When do you launch? We have an idea — late summer, probably. But we can’t just come out and tell you before it’s time. Start-ups of every size require a ton of flexibility, so even something as concrete as an anticipated launch date can change. We’ll be here soon enough.
Salute Your Start-Ups
Posted by Lisa Rowan in Events on June 16, 2010
DC Week is about bringing people together: tech types, entrepreneurs, news junkies, the works. One of the unique events that we’re taking part in is TECH Cocktail, tomorrow night at Lux Lounge. Although it’s tough to consider us one in the traditional sense, we’ll be featured among a couple of start-ups in our area that you should be keeping an eye on. Investors can seek out great new projects, while social media enthusiasts and tech smarties can exchange ideas and perhaps collaborate.
And of course, there are cocktails.
A bunch of us from the TBD gang will be in attendance, so wave if you spot us. Lisa will be manning our demo table. Stop by to chat and maybe take home some swag!
Jeff Pulver discusses the “State of Now” and announces new site to “donate” Tweets
Posted by Lisa Rowan in Events on June 15, 2010
Jeff Pulver’s passion for connecting with people started on CB radio as a child. Pulver was fascinated by the instant friendships that developed over the airwaves. Those exchanges that filled his free time as a teenager deserve a lot of credit for developing Pulver’s social media smarts.
On the anniversary of the first 140 Characters Conference in New York, Pulver reflected on the “state of now,” the realtime internet that has become a part of our daily lives. But while it feels powerful to be able to speak out at will on a variety of topics (from policy to breakfast), engagement is more than just speaking.
During his DC Week session, the new tech expert noted four essential elements of successful interaction: listen, connect, share, and engage. “Numbers get you attention,” Pulver said, referring to Twitter followers, “But it’s what you do with the attention that matters.” Instead of focusing on analytics, he urged the audience to focus on people.
The individual people connecting online are now affecting change. The tools available are the catalysts, leading to discoveries that everyone has the ability to cause change.
Near the conclusion of the talk, Pulver announced the launch of JustCoz.org, a platform that will allow users to “donate” their tweets to a cause they’re passionate about. JustCoz.org is free for both the organizations and the users who may not have the means to donate money to all their favorite causes.
But in the increasingly connected world, we risk becoming hyperconnected. The inability to disconnect or filter the overwhelming amount of information available will cause suffering beyond the notorious Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. “Take a hard look at how you connect and communicate,” Pulver advised. By beginning to filter our communication streams, we can make the most of the “now media moments” that Pulver said can really affect change.
We took some shaky video– check it out:
Live (Sort of) from DC Week: Traditional and Social Media Coming Together
Posted by Lisa Rowan in Events on June 15, 2010
USA TODAY's Brian Dresher, NPR's Andy Carvin, and moderator Carlos Roig
It may be difficult to imagine a tie between National Geographic and Aviation Week. But together with USA Today and NPR, these media organizations are using social media tools to revitalize relationships with their readers.
The Social and Traditional Media panel, hosted by USA TODAY, drew an audience of more than a hundred to hear about the trials and errors made by those who can be considered pioneers in social media.
Adapting to and adopting social media tools involves a cultural shift for many organizations. Brian Dresher, manager of social media and digital partnerships for USA TODAY, explained that journalistic standards have to be flexible to fit into the more casual environment on Facebook or Twitter. “It’s like going to a party,” he said. “You have to dress up for that party.”
Another aspect of the shift is the audience itself. Andy Carvin, senior strategist for NPR’s Social Media Desk, recalled times when volunteers have stepped in to assist in producing content for big stories. “We’ve tried to create an atmosphere where it’s okay to ask for help from the public,” Carvin said.Through volunteering, listeners and collaborators can build relationships with NPR and perform “serious public service” with their skills or talents.
Further, Carvin shies away from referring to ‘audiences.’ “It’s a community,” he corrected. “’Audience’ is too passive.”
For an organization that works on a longer editorial calendar, Robert Michael Murray, vice president of Social Media for National Geographic, said that social media progress can come in “fits and spurts.” But progress in social media is a part of what Murray referred to as a “larger ecosystem.” “It’s a crowded landscape, a crowded mediascape,” he said. “We have to make sure we become embedded in [the reader’s] lifestyle.”
The panelists seemed to agree that social media involvement is a long-term investment. Dresher explained a term used at USA TODAY: ROIII. “Return on Interaction, Influence, and Investment” signifies a shift away from the instant gratification of traffic and instead toward a greater experience for those interacting with the newspaper online.
It may be those increasingly flexible journalistic standards that drive organizations to embrace social media for the benefit of readers and users. “People are fanatical about our niche and we have a responsibility to get that information out to people,” Benet Wilson, online managing editor for Aviation Week, said. Filling that responsibility can cause fear for those who may be unfamiliar with the tools available. Wilson recommended asking for help, even if it means going outside your own organization to find it. “Start with one thing,” she advised. “It rolls from there.”