American Journalism Review
Washington Post reporter
Frank Ahrens (left) writes about blogging the Enron trial while cranking out straight news stories for the website. "The gig is not for everyone," he writes. "I think news bloggers in such situations need a few years' experience both in the business and at their publications, so they can determine just how far they can push the voice and attitude tolerances of their papers and audiences. But bloggers cannot be wed to the Bad Old Ways that are sinking newspapers, such as: We've always done it this way. Or: That's not serious journalism. Or: You're either a reporter or a columnist. Smart stylists can have voice without rendering opinions on the material they cover."
