We just concluded our quarterly meeting of the OlyBlog Docents. Present were Rob Whitlock, enpen, emmettoconnell, and Rick (Sarah was home sick with the flu -- feel better Sarah!). So, here's a summary of the proceedings:

1. First item for discussion was the question of whether OlyBlog needs a new docent. General consensus was that we do, and will take steps to figure out how to make that happen (as a part of a wider program of developing more explicit policies and procedures -- see below).
2. We decided to have a consistent approach to notifying folks when we've edited a post. If there are just formatting or spelling changes, then docents will leave a notification in the "log message" which appears below the main text box on the edit screen. If there is any question about changing content of a post, a private message is required to get permission (except in extreme cases).
3. We discussed the question of whether to restrict the classifieds to just individuals, or to allow business to post as well. We decided to punt on this issue for now and see what happens. If events require, we'll make a decision.
4. The issue of incorporation was discussed generally. It seems like this would be a good step for OlyBlog for several reasons. It would offer a higher level of protection with regard to shield laws for citizen journalists if OlyBlog were considered more of an "official" entity. Also, we would be able to pursue grants funding for projects, interns, and lots of other fun stuff. goecono is going to help guide us through the process, beginning with the next docent's meeting.
5. We discussed the recent incident of potential libel that occurred on the site. While it seems that OlyBlog was actually not even close to being in jeopardy this time, the docents thought it might be prudent to investigate the option of libel insurance. This will probably be a requirement when we incorporate anyway, so it makes sense to start thinking about it now.
6. Next on the agenda was the issue of policies and procedures. It is something that we really have to get moving on for several reasons. One important reason is that as OlyBlog grows in membership, there are more folks registering who need specific guidance about what is permissible in this online community. It was the sense of the docents that many of the squabbles of the last few weeks could have been significantly curtailed by a timely mention of the relevant policy.
7. This brought us to a discussion of what else we could do to deal with those who disrespect others in the community. One suggestion that seemed promising was the institution of a probationary period for all new posters during which they would only be able to make a limited number of comments. Also, if particular individuals became out of control, they would also be placed on probation for a specified amount of time. This seemed like a good middle-ground between banning someone from the site, and doing nothing.
8. We discussed the look of the blog. EG is working on a new masthead, and we also talked about some of the new themes that are now available.

It is our goal to post an agenda for this meeting before it occurs on the docent email list, so that everyone can contribute items for discussion. I also intend to experiment with podcasting future meetings on the blog (thereby reducing the amount of typing required!)

This is a get-together for anyone interested in making comics; whether you write, draw or both. Bring pens, pencils, current projects and your creativity.

As per previous communique, while in Olympia I had a stirring 23 minute chat with docent Emmett plus Zhonka's Jay, Nat with a cameo by Old Timey Dave. Not just tech talk, plenty of banter about Olympia's unique character, you Olybloggers, free speech and fascism.

Get your mitts on the goods at:Managing a Hyper-local Community with Drupal - Raincity Radio podcast

... and here's the 'offical' blurb and snaps for posterity:

Managing an active, hyper-local community blog site using Drupal is the topic as Dave O sits down with Emmett, a docent at Olyblog.net and Drupal-ists Jacob and Nat from Zhonka Broadband at an Olympia, Washington coffee shop.

photo by OldTimey Dave on Flickr

Bonus:

"Government has an obligation to get the most out of each tax dollar, and the only way to ensure efficiency is to put projects up to competitive bids in the private sectors.

If the Palkovitz family can offer the best package for the best price, they deserve to continue operating at Tumwater Valley.

But the city, on behalf of taxpayers, has an obligation to test the market."

This quote comes from an editorial in today's Olympian.  The Palkovitz family operates the restaurant at Tumwater Valley Golf Course.  I take a different position that both the City of Tumwater and The Olympian.

Why can't the operators just lease the space and run an independent business?  What is there that needs to be "bid"?  It would seem to me that the most profitable way for the City of Tumwater to protect the taxpayers interest is to lease the space and not get involved in the operations of a private business.  If the City of Tumwater knew anything about running restaurants, this conversation would be over.

http://thurstonblog.blogspot.com/

The problem with business today is that everything is based on the "best price".  So we have a market where the best price includes lead paint in childrens toys.  Whatever happened to loyalty and relationships in business?  If the operators of the restaurant put together the best proposal on paper and the business fails, how did this protect the taxpayers?

I think the editorial in The Olympian is oversimplified, but it's a safe bet for the only newspaper in the area when it comes time to submit their bids to municipalities for public notices.  Where is the competition then?  Who is protecting the taxpayers then?