phelony_jones's Blog

Last Saturday morning I was sitting in a room full of bloggers who were listening to different panelists. I was restless and didn't stay. But what sticks with me is something that started on that day, and progressed throughout the week.

Charlie Sykes was on a panel with Brian Fraley and Ed Garvey. On the influence of bloggers on media, Charlie referred to Patrick of Badgerblogger.com, and pointed out that Patrick's content is unique. And it is. He also noted that Patrick can and does offer content that few blogs and news outlets can offer.

Then within 24 hours, Charlie lost his mother in the blaze.

72 hours later, Patrick was posting the audio of McGee's statements, of which we are now all familiar.

It moved the community, and influenced the media - local and national. It also prompted action.

The full-circle nature of those days might always stay with me. From the moment that Charlie declared Patrick's influence, to the tragedy, to the blog post heard throughout the community and nation. To the gathering and action. I'll never forget it.

What also stays with me is knowing I was in the room with Charlie before his entire world changed. Something about that is emotional for me. Perhaps all this blogging hasn't destroyed my social skills and empathy, after all.