Left In Lowell

Yesterday, Lynne and I met with Jim Campanini, Editor of the Lowell Sun, and Paul Sullivan, the long-time columnist for the paper and WBZ radio host. It was more a discussion and exchange of views than a formal meeting. I knew Sullivan was witty but Campanini certainly can hold his own when it comes to humorous observations.

I had contacted Campanini last week by e-mail when I realized that the Sun’s web site’s new blog feature had a listing labeled Political. It is currently unpopulated but I assumed that in the near future the Sun will have a Political Blog in the same fashion they currently have a Sports Blog. I was right.

I think this is a great idea. When I e-mailed the Sun’s Editor to find out what the plans were, he invited us to come and discuss blogging. Both Lynne and I are encouraged that our city’s newspaper is serious about setting up a blog on politics and wanted to discuss it with us. Lynne and I are strong proponents of the concept of “citizen journalists.”

Needless to say, we gave them a number of suggestions. Lynne thought that they should seek individuals from each town that they serve . They liked her idea. I suggested that they begin by letting readers blog about the articles and editorials they publish.

Lynne, who is extremely knowledgeable on the technical aspects of setting up and maintaining a blog, gave her opinion on what may or may not work. We discussed the etiquette of the blogsphere; as we all know, along with the unlimited freedom this medium gives us, there is a certain responsibility.

Everyone who really cares about this City should want transparency and accountability from its government. Blogs are an additional instrument in building a strong, vibrant and inclusive community.

Just in case you were wondering, we will continue to criticize the Sun when we feel it necessary but it is in everyone’s interest to have another public forum and if the Sun can provide it, great.