Archive for category Partnerships
Brad Rourke on TBD’s deal for bloggers: “no cap to the upside”
Posted by sbuttry in Partnerships on July 2, 2010
We like Brad Rourke’s view of the TBD Community Network: “There is no cap to the upside.”
Rourke, a partner in Rockville Central, one of our network’s most prolific blogs, joined a discussion that started yesterday on David Rothman’s blog. Rothman offered some thoughtful suggestions for TBD and some criticism of what he perceives to be our plans.
We welcome Rothman’s (and your) thoughts about TBD. Our Daniel Victor responded in the comments, and we won’t elaborate here beyond this: Keep in mind, what you’re looking at here is not the TBD local news site we are planning. We’ll be launching later this summer and that launch is our primary focus now. This is a place-holder blog on which we’re introducing members of our staff and network and discussing some of our plans.
But we do want to share some of Rourke’s comment on Rothman’s blog, because he understands how our network will operate (we encourage you to read the full comment and full discussion at the link above):
I have been a part of starting other blog networks before. I also helped design one. They never work out as well for the blogger as they promise. That’s because the power dynamics are all out of whack between the parties. The host site thinks “we are providing this awesome platform.” The bloggers think “we are providing this awesome content.”
Because the host site rarely goes out of its way to promote its bloggers (by putting them on the front page, e.g.), the bloggers are more right than the host site. Yet the bloggers are asked to give away their content (and typically have to post or cross-post it into the platform).
TBD.com specifically is trying to disavow that disconnect by promoting individual articles throughout their site, based on geocoding, AND are explicitly saying that bloggers’ content remains on their blogs. Someone plunks in 20850 as their ZIP Code and they’ll see a bunch of Rockville Central articles — and the links will come back to us. I anticipate an upswing in traffic. …
I prefer the shared-advertising model of TBD.com to some kind of pay-per-article compensation plan. This will allow us to sell ads to local businesses and so further embed Rockville Central into the community.With the advertising model, we have our built-in incentive to crush it in terms of content, and there is no cap to the upside. And, we don’t get into this mindset of “well, they’re just paying me $20 for this article so I will mail it in.”) And, and and … it’s sustainable for TBD.com.
I am thrilled to be a part of the TBD.com community network and I fervently hope (and expect) it to succeed. It’s got smart people at the helm, a lot of runway, and is nimble.
Thanks for understanding, Brad, and for stating so clearly what we are trying to do. Thanks also for the quality, passion and insight that Rockville Central will bring to the TBD Community Network.
And, if you’re one of those people who think blog comments are all anonymous, vulgar rants, check out that civil, thoughtful discussion in the comments on Rothman’s blog. You can expect more of that on TBD, too.
TBD partners with 82 blogs! Check out our last bunch joining us for launch
Posted by Nathasha Lim in Partnerships on July 1, 2010
The deadline for bloggers to be included in the TBD Community Network in time for launch was yesterday. But don’t worry, it’s not too late! If you have a blog that you’d like to include in our network, please let us know. The more voices, the merrier! For now though, check out our newest additions below. You can also follow them on Twitter!
Foodie Tots
They Say: FoodieTots shares local and sustainable food with a family-friendly focus, featuring DC-area farms, farmers markets & restaurants.
We Say: The quest to get your family to eat healthier just got a little bit easier. Colleen Levine shares her fresh recipes and adventures at the farmers market in her blog, Foodies Tots.
Counter Intelligence
They Say: On the line, behind the counter, at the bar, and in the kitchen at home.
We Say: News and observations about food, drinks and other culinary delights. That’s what you’ll find on Melissa McCart’s insightful blog, Counter Intelligence. Check her out for the latest food finds in the city.
The Wash Cycle
They Say: The WashCycle is a blog dedicated to informing cyclists in the Washington, DC area about issues of importance to their riding, and inspiring them to make their voices heard to make cycling easier, safer and more fun. It covers the facility design and implementation, legal aspects, safety and politics of Washington area cycling. But it also reports on racing, leisure riding and the entertaining elements of bicycling.
We Say: Anyone who’s ever hopped on a two-wheeler in DC will find their interests covered here, as it somehow manages to speak to both casual bikers and hardcore enthusiasts.
District Curmudgeon
They Say: A pair of well-practiced complainers offer constructive criticism regarding all things DC. Based out of Ward 5’s Trinidad neighborhood.
We Say: Geoffrey Hatchard and Jaime Fearer are a blogging duo that cares about the neighborhood. But they also have a penchant for maps that will keep you checking back for the latest cartographical view of the city.
The Dadventure
They Say: A journey into parenting while keeping an eye on that daily adventure.
We Say: Jonny Burns shares the joys and humor of fatherhood, and points out lots of great events for parents to take their children to.
We’re growing… 8 more to the network!
Posted by Nathasha Lim in Partnerships on June 30, 2010
And the TBD Community Network keeps growing and growing…. check out the latest blogs!
The Brightwoodian
They Say: News, explorations, and observations focusing on the Brightwood neighborhood and its surrounding area.
We Say: Rebecca Mills explores the Brightwood neighborhood of DC, covering community events, civic meetings, crimes, development and more. A great source if you live in that area.
NoVa Parents
They Say: After my little girl was born in December 2009, I scoured the Internet for a one-stop site with information about local classes and events for babies and their parents to no avail. So, I decided to start my own. My hope is that this Web site will save parents some time — and what parent couldn’t use a little more of that?
We Say: In a word: Useful. Stephanie Kanowitz shares a stream of things to do with the kids and ways to save money on activities and purchases.
DC Metrocentric
They Say: All things in the world of development in the Washington, DC Metro Area. DCMetrocentric is updated daily and is your source for everything on new buildings, construction, architecture, destruction, planning, real estate, gossip, development, and more in the Nation’s Capital!
We Say: For the low-down on construction and development in your neighborhood, DC Metrocentric has the details—along with plenty of photos and drawings.
Gradually Greener
They Say: Gradually Greener is a lifestyle blog covering gardening, sustainability, cooking with fresh food, and eating on the cheap in DC.
We Say: Are you curious about urban and community gardening, but are afraid to get started? Amelia demonstrates that DC is full of green thumbs and urban harvests are plentiful. Check out what she’s growing—and eating!
New Columbia Heights
They Say: A blog covering everything in DC’s booming Columbia Heights neighborhood: food, nightlife, arts, history, music, events, and all the rest.
We Say: A must-read for any resident of Columbia Heights. Andrew Wiseman is all over the latest local news and community issues.
Silver Spring Singular
They Say: A blog dedicated to the oft-maligned, geographically-ambiguous suburb known as Silver Spring (not “Springs”).
We Say: A frequent roundup of “news ‘n notes” keeps you informed about happenings in Silver Spring, along with photos and firsthand reporting.
On Frozen Blog
They Say: On Frozen Blog is focused on the NHL’s Washington Capitals, their prospects, and hockey in general; a haven for the hockey malnourished.
We Say: With its professional quality writing, it’s one of the most widely respected Caps blogs on the web. You can count Capitals owner Ted Leonsis as among its fans.
Thrifty Cook DC
They Say: Good Prices on Ingredients + Good Recipe → Lots of Good Food + Fatter Wallet → Happy People
We Say: Eating delicious food is one of the joys in life, but good eating doesn’t have to break the bank. Sylvie Nguyen, of Thrifty Cook DC, talks about the latest deals for the greatest meals. She’ll show you how to find the freshest produce and construct a lavish dinner, all for the best possible price.
TBD Community Network passes 70 members! Wahooo!
Posted by Nathasha Lim in Partnerships on June 30, 2010
For your afternoon reading, we’re pleased to announce the newest additions to the TBD network! Check ‘em out. Hurry! And just in case you missed it, read about our other blog partners here, here, over here, here, and here, and here, and here, and here, annnd right over here. Yup, we’ve been busy. Let us know if you want to get in on the action.
Brooding Burgundy
They Say: Straight arrows on a crooked warpath.
We Say: That means he’s a Redskins fan. This portion of a blog post in June says it all: “I lose sleep over them; I gain weight over them. I cheer…I gasp…I laugh…I cry.” And it comes through in his passionate but reasoned writing.
Center Field Gate
They Say: Center Field Gate is a blog about the Washington Nationals, written by three fans of the Nationals. Our goal is to provide entertaining and informed commentary on the team and its fans. The blog also covers baseball history and personalities.
We Say: Almost every day, you’ll find concise game recaps, thorough analysis, scenes from the ballpark and even a little bit of pop culture sprinkled in.
Greater Greater Washington
They Say: The Washington, DC area is great. But it could be greater. Transportation, development, public spaces and more in DC, Maryland, and Virginia
We Say: The GGW teanm, led by David Alpert, provides a healthy dose of constructive criticism as it examines ways to improve the area’s travel paths. Transportation is tied to development in order to paint a clear picture of the region’s issues and the ways in which they can be improved.
NationalsFanboyLooser
They Say: Rants, raves, musings and occassional coherent thoughts from a guy who is way too obsessed with the Washington Nationals.
We Say: A former newspaperman and senior editor at AOL FanHouse, Mike Harris got his wish for a baseball team in DC. He combines the storytelling skill of a seasoned journalist with the passion of a bleacher bum.
Plum Pie
They Say: Plum Pie blogs about home cooked recipes and fresh market finds from a tiny kitchen in Washington, DC. Why? Because life is too short for mediocre food.
We Say: Looking for the scoop on fresh items at the farmers market? Or an awesome recipe on banana pancakes or kumquat mojitos? Look no further. Brooke Moskovitz of Plum Pie offers the latest culinary finds in the nation’s capital.
Devouring DC
They Say: For the love of all things food in the DC Metro Area
We Say: Whether it’s breakfast, lunch or dinner, Heather George, of Devouring DC gives you the scoop on what’s tasty (and what’s not) in her blog, Devouring DC. Check out her latest eats!
Ladies Who Brunch
They Say: Who needs lunch when you can brunch? Turning DC lunchers into brunchers with our brunch reviews, recipes, and stories.
We Say: What’s better than a delicious mimosa at noon? How about some Grand Marnier French toast and savory crepes? Join Rachel Wolf and Emily Long, the ladies that brunch, as they make their way around DC’s tasty wonders.
Off the Beaten Path DC
They Say: A blog about the world of history, natural beauty and noteworthy sites, towns and destinations in and around the DC metro area that provide an alternative to all the “must see sites” in Washington.
We Say: Looking for a weekend getaway? Or how about a day trip to someplace exotic? Fortunately, there’s no need to travel too far… Chris Blanchard offers great local travel suggestions right outside the Beltway. Pack a snack, and let’s go!
Follow the fast-growing TBD Community Network
Posted by Jeff Sonderman in Partnerships on June 30, 2010
We’re running out of cute ways to introduce all these great local sites that are partnering with TBD each day. So before I get to the latest list, let me just plug that you can follow the dozens of network members on Twitter with our Twitter list and review all the member announcements to find your favorites.
Here are the latest members (more to come later today):
Arlington Real Estate News
They Say: Life and Real Estate in Arlington, VA.
We Say: Laura Rubinchuk, a Realtor in Arlington, gives advice on buying and selling property and tracks the latest real estate trends. She also picks up interesting local news for Arlington residents. A fun, informative blog with a personal touch.
Arugula Files
They Say: Arugula files is about delicious food. Mary writes about her experiences learning to cook, eating out, collecting cookbooks, her addiction to the food network, and how she manages to cook anything in her tiny kitchen.
We Say: A former processed food consumer, Mary Cunningham is now going green and healthy. Check out her latest cooking experiments and adventures in her vibrant blog, Arugula Files.
Brunch and the City
They Say: A blog by a DC native rediscovering her hometown one brunch at a time.
We say: Breakfast may be the most important meal of the day, but brunch is the most fun. Claudia Holwill, of Brunch and the City, dishes out her tasty adventures stuffed with sausage, crepes, and sweet and savory omelettes. So sit back, sip a mimosa and read her tales of brunching in city.
Capitol Hill Style
They Say: Bringing style back to Capitol Hill’s marble halls one post at a time.
We Say: The Hill has its own culture, but it doesn’t have much of a reputation for being fashionable. “Belle” gives you tips to avoid professional fashion faux pas and recommends wardrobe additions at price points that don’t forget about an intern’s budget.
Gateway to Loudoun
They Say: Gateway to Loudoun is a business-flavored, family-centric blog featuring people, organizations and events of interest in the Dulles region of Northern Virginia, i.e. Western Fairfax, Western Prince William and Eastern Loudoun Counties. Not LoCo, but SoLoCo.
We Say: Ted McLaughlan has a little bit of everything for people in this corner of Northern Virginia, from updates on the local business scene to events and other news.
It Is What It Is…Another Redskins Blog
They Say: A Blog About the Washington Redskins, football, sports and other pop culture.
We Say: A passionate Skins fan, Al goes deep into every roster move, draft pick and Albert Haynesworth tidbit. He’s the kind of fan who struggles to make it through that long offseason, but manages to blog through it anyway.
PunditMom
They Say: A site about the intersection of motherhood and politics, and home of politically progressive op-ed commentary by Joanne Bamberger.
We Say: This isn’t your usual mommy blog. Joanne Bamberger takes on progressive political issues that affect local families.
William World News
They Say: Native Washingtonian William F. Yurasko has been blogging about the Nats since 2004, plus other D.C. teams, Penn State and living here.
We Say: Consider William to be a microcosm of the entire TBD Community Network. He blogs about sports, transportation, local news, food — all in the DC area. Check out the list of categories on the left side of his blog to see the diversity of what he offers.
More than 50 local sites now part of the TBD Community Network
Posted by Jeff Sonderman in Partnerships on June 29, 2010
Hockey, baseball, kids, fashion, cycling, food and drinks. We’ve got a little more of everything in today’s latest batch of local blogs joining the TBD Community Network.
Please check out our eight latest members (more than 50 total now) and our other recent announcements, and if you want to get your blog involved in this goodness, let us know.
Capitals Outsider
They Say: Capitals Outsider is a blog that covers the offbeat side of the Washington Capitals and their wild and crazy fans.
We Say: The bloggers here are busy even during the off-season, leading their readers in discussions of the best fighters in Caps history or finding odd Caps-related items for sale. They don’t claim to be insiders, so expect a different take on the team.
DC Action for Children
They Say: DC Action for Children works to ensure that all of DC’s youngest citizens have access to quality early care and education from birth.
We Say: “Won’t somebody please think of the children?” Why yes, these folks do. DC Action for Children tries to make sure that kids in DC have a chance to start their lives off right, especially with education and child care. If you care about the kids (and who doesn’t) this blog helps you stand up for them.
DC Goodwill Fashion Blog
They Say: Goodwill’s fashion blog provides detailed knowledge and insight on vintage and contemporary clothing and accessories that are valuable to fashion shoppers.
We Say: When the economy dipped, Goodwill gained ground as a community resource and hot spot for frugal shoppers. Gillian, the Goodwill “fashionista,” provides fashion advice as she shows off some of the store’s coolest and wackiest finds.
District Cycling
They Say: All things cycling. The writing is personal, opinionated and true. A connection to the local cycling scene, this blog embodies what I love: cycling. With a Podcast, we cover pro cycling, cycling events, cycling news coupled with self-deprecating humor based around cycling. Did I mention we’re a cycling blog?
We Say: They cover the big pro events that come through DC like the upcoming Capital Criterium, as well as local events like Bike to Work Day. They kinda like cycling.
IFlipForFood
They Say: We love food! Flip for it, even. Follow along with our food adventures, both in the kitchen and out on the town.
We Say: This duo offers deliciousness that is to die for. Whether you’re looking for new recipes, places to dine, or a peek into the lives of a couple of fun foodies, iFlipForFood is worthy of the read.
Florida Girl in DC
They Say: Florida native turned beltway babe. wannabe surfer-slash-artist. political junkie. social media addict. locavore. haunt farmers markets, restaurant bars & boutiques. heart pirates, in theory.
We Say: Ride the gastronomic wave with Florida native Tammy Gordon as she shares her culinary and dining adventures on her blog. She’ll take you on trips to the farmers market, exotic cooking classes with local chefs and into her kitchen as she tests out exciting new recipes.
Nationals Farm Authority
They Say: Nationals Farm Authority tracks the performances of the players in the Washington Nationals farm system.
We Say: Anyone wishing to find hope can come here and see what future Nationals the team is building. Brian Oliver has, without a doubt, the web’s most comprehensive coverage of the Nationals farm system, and he offers day-by-day recaps as well as big-picture analysis.
Scofflaw’s Den
They Say: An online speakeasy of potent potables and other pabulum to promote good spirits, good cocktails, good cigars and good people.
We Say: Sit back and have a drink or two with SeanMike and Marshall, as they take you into their exciting world of cocktails, cigars and bar adventures.
Eight more blogs added to TBD Community Network
Posted by Daniel Victor in Partnerships on June 28, 2010
If you paid attention to our announcements last week on the first 39 members of our TBD Community Network (catch up on the news here), you found what’s shaping up to be a thorough cross-section of the DC community.
We loved seeing comments like this on Twitter:
And we’ve still got many, many more blogs and websites we expect to be joining us shortly. Here’s your Monday fix on the eight latest blogs to join the network, bringing our announced total up to 47:
Allergy Life in Loudoun
They Say: Allergy Life in Loudoun is a website about a little girl who happens to have multiple life-threatening food allergies and promotes healthy living strategies for children and families in Loudoun County. Through blogging, I wish to bring awareness, educate others and create new fundraising opportunities for clinical research trials at Johns Hopkins Childrens Center and national nonprofit groups, such as FAAN.
We Say: If you or anyone you care about lives with food allergies, Maria Hardy’s blog is a must-read. She not only provides information about living well with allergies, but also takes action to improve lives, such as founding the Loudoun Allergy Network, a parent support group, in 2007.
Beyond DC
They Say: Exploring urbanism, transportation and planning in the Washington, DC region since 2001.
We Say: This future-thinking blog explains the issues and development of urban planning and transportation in the area—in layman’s terms. It’s like getting the inside scoop about how to get around town now, and in five years. No time machine required!
DC Loves Food
They Say: Deepthroat’s Guide to Washington, DC Foodie Life (and other random thoughts of a random bureaucrat)
We Say: How deep is your love for food? Pretty deep? Check out the full dining disclosure from “Mark Felt” as he shares his experience in the DC food world.
DC Metro People
They Say: Random photos capturing all the fascinating people who ride and depend on DC Metro.
We Say: This photographer is pioneering “iPhoneography” and snapping shots that make our underground commutes look artsy instead of just unbearable. If you submit a picture, you might get a gold star. Who doesn’t like gold stars?
Girl Meets Food
They Say: Dining out for the adventurous omnivore.
We Say: There’s no doubt that food can be a cultural adventure. Mary Kong shows us the culinary ropes in her blog, Girl Meets Food. Experience the thrill with her as she eats her way through diverse neighborhoods in the Washington, DC area.
Johnna Knows Good Food
They Say: DC-based food blog featuring recipes, drink mixes, restaurant reviews and all things food related.
We Say: Looking for some good food in the DC metropolitan area? Johnna Rowe, the blogger behind Johnna Knows Good Food, may have some awesome suggestions for you. Check out her site, and read about her experiences as she eats and drinks her way around DC.
Mango & Tomato
They Say: Love to cook, dance salsa, travel and photography.
We Say: Don’t be fooled. Mango & Tomato offers readers more than just insightful news about mangos and tomatoes. Olga Berman shares her culinary adventures and simple, yet exciting recipes with the world. And if you happen to be a mango or tomato lover, then even better!
U Street Girl
They Say: U Street Girl covers happenings in the U Street neighborhood, whether they be cultural, artistic, epicurean, social, or lifestyle-related.
We Say: While U Street resident Catherine provides a mix of neighborhood happenings, she should be your first spot for business news along the corridor. If there’s an opening or closing in the works, she’s on it.
Six more blogs cap a busy first week for TBD Community Network
Posted by Daniel Victor in Partnerships on June 25, 2010
What, you thought this morning’s post that introduced eight new blogs to our TBD Community Network would be our only update today?
Nope. How does six more sound? We don’t like sitting on the news here.
And don’t forget, this is on top of the other 25 we had already signed up. For those scoring at home, this batch brings us up to 39 DC-based blogs who we can’t wait to feature on our site. As always, we remind you there will be many more to come.
On to the stars of the show:
The Anti DC
They Say: The Anti DC thrives on satire, offering daily humor essays and vlogs that turn local politics into pop culture and pop culture into whine.
We Say: Marissa Payne has an attitude, and she’s not afraid to show it. For example, her recent video about the new bike lanes on Pennsylvania Avenue was called “Pennsylvania Avenue Bike Lanes of Death.” But she’s thoughtful about city issues and speaks her piece, which we love. Bring on the snark.
Maryland Reporter
They Say: MarylandReporter.com is the news site for Maryland government and politics, with original reporting and a full roundup from other sites.
We Say: Len Lazarick and staff writer Nick DiMarco provide a blend of news, blog and resources for the Maryland crowd, including a daily roundup of news highlights concerning state government.
Nationals Fangirls
They Say: Created mostly as an outlet for our obesession with the Nationals, we hope that all feel welcome joining us here as we cheer for and chatter about our team.
We Say: Jenn and Rachel can often be spotted at the ballpark, and their blog focuses on the fan experience. (And in case you’re wondering, the guy in the middle isn’t one of the fangirls…he’s General Manager Mike Rizzo.)
Old Dominion Watchdog
They Say: Old Dominion Watchdog is dedicated to excellent investigative reporting that promotes responsible state and local government. The goal of Old Dominion Watchdog is to uncover the actions of government officials and agencies, offering carefully researched data, context and analysis.
We Say: Led by Paige Winfield Cunningham, the Watchdog dishes up relevant state news for our nearest Commonwealth (Virginia, of course). It doesn’t hurt that the mascot is cute, too.
ReadysetDC
They Say: A community-driven website dedicated to spotlighting and starting creativity in our nation’s capital.
We Say: The ReadysetDC team encourages appreciation of the art in our area, ranging from fashion to break dance (and everything in between). An events calendar clues you in to creative events you may not have heard about.
Unsuck DC Metro
They Say: A blog for people who want a better, more accountable Metro and like to laugh from time to time.
We Say: Throughout WMATA’s recent trials and tribulations, Unsuck DC Metro has been a consistent source of information, reader accounts, and a good dose of humor to take some of the stress out of your commute. The mysterious Mr. Unsuck appreciates the many readers that send in tips, so keep ’em coming.
Blogs talk back: Community network members announce participation
Posted by Lisa Rowan in Partnerships on June 25, 2010
In case you haven’t already added all our network blogs to your reader of choice, here are some of their announcements about their participation in the TBD Community Network.
ARLNow partnering with TBD.com
“Teaming up with TBD will open up a larger, more regional audience for ARLnow.com’s timely original news and features, and will be an important component of our effort to make the site financially self-sustaining.”
“If you are a CityShopGirl email subscriber, you will see a few minor changes in the layout of the email and on our site in the coming weeks. The changes will include relevant and well-integrated advertising (we have to make money somehow!). We will still be providing information on great finds and cool events happening around the city.”
Dining in DC partners with TBD blog network
“Dining in DC will be part of TBD’s Dining section and will be providing original content with restaurant reviews, news, events, and chef interviews.”
DC Spy joins the TBD Community Network!
“What is TBD? Well it’s basically a new online newsroom that focuses on DC community news. However, in addition to original reporting, they are providing local bloggers with a platform for their own stories. It’s collaborative and local and experimental, so you should check it out.”
Rockville Central joins local news startup TBD.com
“TBD.com will run Rockville Central content on its site, and we may run their content here, too. But the primary relationship is that we are providing the view-from-Rockville.”
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.