I thought networking was supposed to be hard work. Well, last Thursday it felt more like one of those games kids put together on the spot--the kind that result in total engagement and full-out enjoyment for all. At Flannery's Pub, John Ettorre MC'd and a bunch of people talked about stuff from their hearts, all on completely different topics (music, social justice, general rebelliousness, etc.)--and yet most everybody in the place seemed enraptured. Holy mackerel. What's going on here? Meet "blogging"--this is what it's about. According to several presenters, Thomas Paine was one of the original bloggers. Of course he had to do it in print so he didn't get the fast high that publishing on the Internet gives, but he was raking muck and calling for revolution with style and passion from early times (Common Sense, 1776). The definition then that seems to be evolving: someone who expresses his/her opinion(s) for all to read, without regard to what the mainstream line is. As Eric Olsen said Thursday night, "I have NOTHING if not opinions." The event was well-attended and included many of the region's best known journalists such as Roldo Bartimole, the before-his-time blogger. But it's clear many of the people present that night are getting on that same train: irreverent carryings-on conducted with great reverence for life, truth, and compassion. For a round-up of area blogs, check out George Nemeth's Brewed Fresh Daily?.com From Cool Cleveland reader Barbara Payne who blogs at Angels and Frogs and Cool Cleveland contributor Steve Goldberg What's in the Bag?

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