The facts of blog: Three times a day, five days a week
Pretty cool, huh? A picture of this post atop this post. High-tech, like. (Photo by M. Bradley)
If you’re counting at home — and literally, I just did — this marks my 102nd post in 40 days. I mention this because six weeks ago my job description underwent a major readjustment, as I’m sure many among you have noticed. And just this week two respected pros — Claude Felton, Georgia’s Hall of Fame publicist, and Kim Shreckengost, Arthur Blank’s longtime deputy — asked: “So how often do you write now?”
That in mind, I’ve decided to compile what we digital types — technically, I work in Digital at the AJC now, not Sports — call FAQs. (Frequently Asked Questions, for the newbies.) I hope these will be of some service as we move forward in this bold endeavor.
So how often do you write now?
The idea is to post three times a day, Monday through Friday, the target times being 7 a.m., 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Obviously this is subject to change when I’m covering a live event or a night game, and in such cases I’ll try to alert you beforehand. But generally speaking, if you check back every four hours on a weekday, you should find something new. (Not to say something good, but something new.)
Mention Pynchon for max effect.
Will this change come football season?
Probably, but we’re still sorting that out. (When I say “we,” I mean Quindelda McElroy and Carolyn Warmbold, who are the brains behind the Insight/Opinion Digital group, and Mr. Schultz and myself.) Mr. Schultz and I will still go to games on Saturday/Sunday, and I’m guessing we’ll do more live-blogging from those. But don’t hold me to that just yet.
Does this mean you won’t write for the print AJC anymore?
It does not. I still write for print roughly three times a week, and the print column will always appear online as part of the ol’ blog. But my first responsibility, as Ms. McElroy says — we call her “Q,” by the way — is to serve the digital audience. That means you folks. So consider yourselves lucky or warned, depending on your slant.
So you’re not in Sports but you’re still a sports writer?
That’s correct. Our Insight/Opinion group contains folks from all walks of AJC life — from Jim Galloway, the Political Insider, to Meridith Ford Goldman, the food critic — and contains four folks charged specifically with blogging about sports: Darryl Maxie on recruiting, Junkyard Bill King, Mr. Schultz and myself.
That doesn’t mean our sports beat writers — Sekou Smith, Dave O’Brien/Carroll Rogers, Darryl Ledbetter, Chris Vivlamore, Tim Tucker, Doug Roberson and Michael Carvell — still won’t do blogs. They will. (As you’ve doubtless seen, Sekou and DOB/Carroll have been churning them out as per usual over the summer.) But they’re in the News & Information group.
Aren’t 15 posts a week an awful lot?
I’d be lying if I said there wasn’t some initial hesitation on my part, and I’d be lying if I told you that, after six weeks, I’ve settled into what I’d call an ideal routine. I haven’t yet, though I’m getting closer. But the trick, I’m learning, is treat the digital world, which is a totally different animal from print, totally differently. I wouldn’t want to write 15 posts a week full of the usual Bradley column-style bloviation, and believe me, you wouldn’t want to read them. That’s why you’re seeing more of a mix.
The mix being … what exactly?
Whatever springs to mind. I’ve written a poem, sort of. I’ll try to make lists. There will always be a fairly extensive Bradley’s Buzz — a collection of links regarding local sports — on Monday mornings, but there will be more shorter Buzzes throughout the week. I’ve been doing Buzz since last August — both the name and the idea came from former AJC sports editor Ronnie Ramos, who’s now at NCAA.com — and I’ve been pleased to see there’s almost always a surplus of material.
Are there any other regularly scheduled weekly features?
So far, two. There’s something I’ve dubbed the Hot Button, which will appear Thursday mornings, and its aim is to give my answer to a burning — or, failing that, simmering — issue regarding Atlanta/Georgia sports. Installment No. 1 was, “Do the Braves need a new manager?” No. 2 was, “Why the Hawks must still draft a point guard.” No. 3 was, “Should the Braves trade Yunel Escobar?” Yesterday’s was, “Should the Bravers be buyers or sellers?” Not much nuance; just meat-and-potatoes sports stuff.
And on Wednesdays Mr. Schultz and I will be doing a Face Off, which is as it sounds: One issue, differing opinions.
Tell the truth. Do you like this new regimen?
Yes, I do. I love the actual act of writing. I’m not what’s known in the trade as a “bleeder,” meaning I don’t agonize over every word. I’m fairly quick and I’m usually pretty clean. (I’m talking copy-wise, not necessarily hygiene-wise.) And I’ve found, at the advanced age of 53, that focusing on the digital audience has enabled me to look on a job I’ve done for more more than 30 years in a whole new light. This stuff is, in a word, fun.
Do you read every single comment?
I try to look at every single comment. I’d be less than candid if I said I read them all one word for word. I try to get the gist, and I try to think of the comments section as a conversation. I like responding. I like making my dumb little jokes. I like recognizing people’s screen names, even if they’re people I know who aren’t my biggest fans.
By the way: You’re allowed to disagree with me, even encouraged to do so. I have just two requests.
And those are?
Keep it clean, and don’t use the word “thug.” I hate that word, and I delete any comment containing it. (I did it again just this morning.) It started as a code word, but it’s not even code anymore. It’s essentially a racial slur. I try to flexible on most things, but on this word I’m steadfast.
Do you have a formula for how often you respond?
I try to answer as often as I can, sometimes to stimulate the conversation, sometimes just to crack wise. With three posts a day, it gets a little tougher to keep up with every train of thought. But I do try.
Any other tips for commenters?
I’m a sucker for literary or movie or music references. If I see the screen name “Stephen Daedalus” — and I have — my eyes light up. Same with “Ted Striker.” Same with “Tupac Earnhardt Jr.”
Do you ever sleep?
On occasion, yes. But only on occasion.
Last FAQ. If you were going to give yourself a screen name, what would it be?
Believe it or not, I’ve given this a lot of thought. Here goes: Holly Martins.
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101 comments Add your comment
Song G
July 10th, 2009
2:49 pm
Seven Samurai, booyah
Craig "Speedy" Ehlo
July 10th, 2009
2:55 pm
Keep up the good work, Mark – I like the new format, and you’ve been churning out some good stuff.
tale of woe
July 10th, 2009
2:56 pm
Since I am sure 3 blogs are a lot to do each day I offer up this suggestion – Write something about me…er, the other critics who chime in from time to time to either give you hell or to praise your opinions…Just a thought…I figure you need as many suggestions as possible….
Billy
July 10th, 2009
3:03 pm
Mr. Bradley,
As a college student using this summer to build my resume with a soild corporate internship, I can’t begin to tell you how much I enjoy your daily blogs. I work hard for a few hours knowing your post at 11 and 3 will be rewards for my work. The AJC has done a good thing with this recent transformation. I look forward to reading your blogs for the rest of the summer while in my cubicle.
Mychelfromatl
July 10th, 2009
3:04 pm
Keep up the good work “homie”…these sport blogs keep me entertained while I’m at work!!
Sultanofatl
July 10th, 2009
3:05 pm
Enjoying the new set up Mark. Question: Out of all the current coaches in Atlanta(college and pro), who is lead dog? Same for GM’s, who would be the guy the other guys should target?
Art Vandelay
July 10th, 2009
3:08 pm
Another burning question, Mark: Does this increased workload come with a corresponding pay raise? I’ve been reading your stuff since I was knee-high to a cockroach, and I’m amazed that you’re able to sustain this level of production at your advanced age. Hopefully, in their infinite wisdom, the higher-ups in the AJC Digital group have decided to split the money that was going to Terence Moore and the 1500-or-so staffers who were culled earlier this year between you, Schultz, and the four other writers remaining in the newsroom. You’ve certainly earned it these past six weeks.
uga_b
July 10th, 2009
3:19 pm
Sultan, if you go by tenure and accomplishments, it would be Bobby Cox and then Mark Richt. Big fan of Mike Smith and Paul Johnson’s work and Woodson has even impressed as of late. Jury may still be out on the Thrashers.
For GMs, I go Dimitroff then Sund then Frank Wren then Wadell.
Not that you asked.
uga_b
July 10th, 2009
3:21 pm
Mark, thanks for keeping me company on NFL Draft Sunday. Next time you’re out, Dimitroff says try the seabass.
TommyP
July 10th, 2009
3:25 pm
As a teacher/coach, I get to check in on you all day during the summer months. During the school year, usually twice a day…but it’s always with great anticipation.
Great job and honestly the best overall blog on this site.
rlinaug
July 10th, 2009
3:30 pm
I threw in Boo Radley yesterday, did you just glean over it? if you didn’t notice it, I may have to compare you to Nasty Roche. He’s a stink, you know.
Ken Stallings
July 10th, 2009
3:40 pm
Three entries a day for five days a week are way too many. Consider this some honest feedback. I prefer quality of quantity. Not to say your work hasn’t had quality because in fact it has. But this amount of daily writing is going to represent burn out and the only way to manage that is with filler materials.
The AJC is in big trouble financially and few people are willing to pay for newspaper access these days. Fewer still will pay for online access. It’s a dinosaur unfortunately. But if the AJC wants a future then it needs to focus on its news and opinion divisions more than sports. The AJC sports section has carried the newspaper in Atlanta for years.
If the AJC is serious about remaining viable, then they will change their editorial angle so it stops being a knee-jerk left-wing publication. The days of three liberal columnists for one token conservative doesn’t wash. It’s a wrong formula that doesn’t retain moderate and conservative readers who have chosen to discontinue patronizing any newspaper that continues its sad application.
True balance means an equal number, as well as the equal chance the conservative view gets top billing vice relegation to the op-ed section. I realize this is the sports section, but it’s the only section I ever read any longer. It’s the only section where I don’t feel like someone’s trying to use me as a social lab rat! And despite the editors’ apparent views, I don’t have whiskers and a long thin tail!
I appreciate you trying to keep the paper and online versions of the AJC alive nearly by yourself, Mark. But it takes more than the good efforts of one person. But I do apprecaite your efforts.
Mac
July 10th, 2009
3:41 pm
Holy crud, I just saw The Third Man for the first time recently on TCM, and what a great flick! Joseph Cotten, Orson Welles, Trevor Howard and that hot chick … terrific!
Mark Bradley
July 10th, 2009
3:52 pm
No, I caught Boo Radley, Rlinaug, and I’m assuming you were going with “To Kill A Mockingbird” and not the British band the Boo Radleys. In either case, kudos.
Song G wins the bonus points — though just what they entitle one to do or get, I’m not yet sure — for correctly identifying “Seven Samurai. ” I don’t have many movies on DVD, but I’ve got that one.
And the hot chick from “The Third Man” was billed as “Valli” in the credits, but her name was Alida Valli. (I believe I learned that from Robert Osborne on TCM.)
Mark Bradley
July 10th, 2009
3:53 pm
Oh, and thanks for the kind words. And I do well recall the Draft Day line about the sea bass, UGA. A good one then and now.
Mac
July 10th, 2009
3:57 pm
You know, between Bradley and Facebook, I really should be fired. But the fact is, the business I run is making 10-times what it did last year. No, really.
Dark Helmet
July 10th, 2009
3:59 pm
KEEP FIRING, A$$HOLES!!!!!!!!!!!!!
uga_b
July 10th, 2009
4:00 pm
Also, if you notice, ESPN has gone mainly blogs online as well. Only articles you seem to get are from the Mag.
I think the hardest part with the frequency is that you chose to start it in summer when it is notoriously slow for sports.
Caedmon
July 10th, 2009
4:01 pm
Hey Mark,
No love for Rashomon?
Mark Bradley
July 10th, 2009
4:03 pm
A pay raise? You mean I’m supposed to get paid for doing this?
Herschel Talker
July 10th, 2009
4:04 pm
Mark – But the picture of the blog isn’t in the picture of the blog. It’s supposed to be like a fractal. What gives?
wxwax
July 10th, 2009
4:06 pm
Bleeder, huh? Great term!
Holly Martins? Dude, you’re much better than that. He was a bit of a dolt, well-intentioned but totally out of his depth. You’re not out of your depth at all, you do a great job. I can’t imagine churning out as much material as you do.
(What a great movie, BTW.)
Mark Bradley
July 10th, 2009
4:06 pm
You know, Caedmon, “Rashomon” isn’t my favorite Akira Kurosawa movie. It’s a great one, but it’s not as much fun as most of his are. (Pretty dire subject matter, as you know.) If you haven’t seen it, let me recommend “High and Low.”
Mark Bradley
July 10th, 2009
4:08 pm
What gives is I’m not nearly clever enough to pull off a fractal. A fracture, yes.
And Holly Martins is pretty much me to a “T” — hack writer with a big mouth, doesn’t know what’s going on, in way over his head, shot his best friend in the Vienna sewers.
Mark Bradley
July 10th, 2009
4:10 pm
Oh, and Tale of Woe had it right: Suggestions are not just appreciated; they’re desperately appreciated.
Mac
July 10th, 2009
4:13 pm
What was funny about the sewer chase scene was that it was supposed to be an impossible labyrinth, but they kept showing that exact same bit of location over and over. It’s the only “flaw,” in the movie.
NCBravesFan
July 10th, 2009
4:14 pm
MB – I really have enjoyed the blogs you and Schultz have been cranking out. And I really appreciate how responsive you are to the audience.
The growth in terms of comments is remarkable, so I assume the page clicks must be through the roof.
So here’s my question: is this headed toward a “for-pay” type system for accessing/participating down the line? I know you folks are having a hard time in the industry right now, so it makes sense that this would be discussed at some point. (And from my vantage point, it might wheedle out a few of the nitwits who have invaded DOB’s blog over the past year.)
Buzz
July 10th, 2009
4:15 pm
You ever think you will be any good at writing? Seems the extra practice might help.
Mac
July 10th, 2009
4:15 pm
Here’s one: Are Pariah Jerry, the Missouri safety and the Richmond DE going to get signed before camp?
bb
July 10th, 2009
4:18 pm
You confirmed something that had become obvious (to me at least). That the UGA ‘Fan’ blogger is actually a hired hand that is paid to blog about UGA sports (he obviously has the same 3 a day quota you do). There is nothing wrong with that, mind you, it makes good sense business-wise for the AJC I’m sure. But it does let the GT fans know, once and for all, that there is a difference in the way that the AJC thinks of the two schools. There can be no illusion of being unbiased. The AJC caters to the UGA fans for profit.
Again, there is nothing wrong with that, as long as you don’t pretend it’s not true. The plain and simple truth is that there are more UGA fans (even in Atlanta) than GT fans, so, as a business, the AJC has to consider that.
Mrs. Chanandler Bong
July 10th, 2009
4:19 pm
Was this photograph taken with the AJC-issued phone or your NEW I-PHONE???
Mark Bradley
July 10th, 2009
4:19 pm
That’s a good idea, Mac. Thanks. (And my guess is that they will sign. As I’m sure you know, the NFL pretty much shuts down around the first of July. Not much gets done anywhere.)
Oh, and Buzz: I sincerely doubt I’ll ever be any good. Thanks for asking.
Herschel Talker
July 10th, 2009
4:21 pm
Mark – in all seriousness, the new format is tremendous. Kudos to you and Schultz on the upgrade and the hard work.
Caedmon
July 10th, 2009
4:23 pm
I have seen “High and Low,” and you’re right, it is a great one. I really enjoy Kurosawa’s movies set in contemporary times, even though he’s (mostly) known for his historical work. “Ikiru” is another fine film. I’ve heard rumors of a “High and Low” remake. The latest is that Mike Nichols will direct and David Mamet will write the screenplay, so I don’t know if I should call blasphemy just yet, even though I’m tempted.
Hey, we’re talking Japanese cinema on a sports blog. Cool!
Mark Bradley
July 10th, 2009
4:24 pm
NC has done a dangerous thing: He has asked a really difficult question. As some of you will recall, we tried making sports columns for-pay back in 2004, and that lasted a year. The cold truth is that people have gotten so used to getting everything on the Internet for free they’re reluctant to pay for anything. (I know. It took me years to become an ESPN Insider, and I only broke down because I figure I’ll get reimbursed.)
But I did see something about the New York Times considering a charge of $5 a month to use its Web site. So now I’ll ask you folks: Would you pay a small monthly fee to read AJC.com online? (Don’t feel obliged to say yes. You won’t hurt my feelings. I’d really like to know.)
Chris
July 10th, 2009
4:25 pm
How many are going to be copy and paste jobs? At least four a week, right?
Class of '98
July 10th, 2009
4:26 pm
Don’t we all sleep “on occasion”? Isn’t someone who sleeps constantly in a coma?
Mark Bradley
July 10th, 2009
4:30 pm
This was the iPhone, Ms. CB. Thanks for asking. I don’t go anywhere without it. The BlackBerry Storm usually stays in my work bag.
And, to Class of ‘98, I guess I pretty much went through the University of Kentucky in a coma because I could sleep 10, 12, 14 hours at a time.
Class of '98
July 10th, 2009
4:32 pm
Mark, since I think there might actually be a chance you’ll read this…
I’m 34 and not old enough to remember reading the AJC without you. You’re one of my all-time favorites. The column you wrote about how UGA deserved to play in the BCS title game the day after the BCS standings were released in December 2007 still brings tears to my eyes.
It was downright poetic. Thanks for that column and a thousand others.
Mark Bradley
July 10th, 2009
4:32 pm
“Ikiru” is great. “The Bad Sleep Well” is great. “Drunken Angel” is great. Overall, I’d say I prefer the contemporary Kurosawa myself.
mryan
July 10th, 2009
4:33 pm
funny stuff, guys. Mr. Bradley – nice feedback.
Mark Bradley
July 10th, 2009
4:34 pm
Why, thanks, Class. Your note just brought a tear to my eye.
Meanwhile...adjusting to the new blog paradigm
July 10th, 2009
4:40 pm
Re: Answering the FAQ’s of the day, in a timeless fashion.
Q: Why must the Hawks still draft a point guard?
A: It was the best of times; it was the worst of times.
Q: Should the Braves trade Yunel Escobar?
A: What we’ve got here is…failure to communicate.
Q: Should the Braves be buyers or sellers?
A: I love the smell of napalm in the morning…Smells like…victory.
And of course the question for our times, deserves the answer for our times:
Q: Do the Braves need a new manager?
A: Rosebud.
rip
July 10th, 2009
4:41 pm
I would pay for AJC if they would get practical on their stories. I read one this week where the discussed how the City Council voted 8 – 7 to raise taxes. Go the extra step please, why not list the city council persons who voted Yes and who voted No. Just madenning. i would pay no more than 15% of what the NY times asks for.
CincyJacket
July 10th, 2009
4:41 pm
Monthly fee for AJC.com? No, I wouldn’t bother unless I found away around it. I come because its a good place for Atlanta News, but as a college student, its not worth paying for.
Good job so far with the three times a day. They’ve been pretty decent when I’ve checked them out (Not every day).
wxwax
July 10th, 2009
4:43 pm
Some ideas, mostly terrible, but maybe they’ll spark a better idea. (Better Holly Martins than Sylvia Plath.)
Will Arthur Blank Push Matt Ryan’s Wheelchair?
Did Blank get lucky or smart in assembling the Falcons’ braintrust? After all, Smith was more-or-less picked by Blank. Has Blank changed?
Is Georgia Tech Overrated?
Everyone expects great things from Paul Johnson’s second season on the Flats. Too much, maybe? He’s unlikely to beat Georgia twice in a row. His defense has serious issues to address. And his QB’s still have a lot to prove.
Spirits Rising at Philips?
The Hawks and the Thrashers are making noise in the free agent and trade markets. Reading the Spirit’s tea leaves, is this a sign they think they’ll win their ownership battle and are ready to invest in the teams? Did somebody sound an alarm over Thrashers apathy? Or is the hapless ownership still just along for the ride?
Why Does Attendance Come In Last at AMS?
NASCAR struggles to sell-out in one of its biggest markets. Not just occasionally, but regularly. What’s wrong?
Women’s Soccer v2
What’s going down with the Beat, Atlanta’s new WPL franchise?
Has Leo Mazzone Struck Out?
Why won’t anyone hire him?
Mark Bradley
July 10th, 2009
4:47 pm
Gee, Wxwax, those are really good ideas. They actually sound like the budget lines editors assign to our stories. You sure you’re not an editor?
Good lines, Meanwhile. Especially the “Rosebud” one.
wxwax
July 10th, 2009
4:47 pm
[I]But I did see something about the New York Times considering a charge of $5 a month to use its Web site. So now I’ll ask you folks: Would you pay a small monthly fee to read AJC.com online? (Don’t feel obliged to say yes. You won’t hurt my feelings. I’d really like to know.)[/I]
One of two things will happen. Either local newspapers charge for their online product. Or they will go out of business, or at least change beyond recognition.
I like free, but I also like local reporting. I’m resigned to getting kicked-off the free ride.
Herschel Talker
July 10th, 2009
4:52 pm
Mark – I wouldn’t pay a cent to see this online.
CincyJacket
July 10th, 2009
4:55 pm
Suggestions:
Favorite Food spots before/after games
Favorite seats in each stadiums
Smaller sporting events worth checking out
Mac
July 10th, 2009
4:57 pm
I’d pay, as long as it’s not too dear.
Meanwhile...thank you Mark
July 10th, 2009
4:58 pm
Thank you Mark. Of course I don’t have the pressure of coming up with them 3X daily. Or the financial incentive. LOL
As far as paying for online content; I think as noted above, you might find an audience for those who respect the sports content enough to pay. As for the rest of the paper, not so much.
But why bring down the generally positive vibe of this blog with talk of such unpleasantness?
Mark Bradley
July 10th, 2009
5:01 pm
Thanks for the for-pay feedback, folks. And thanks for the ideas, Cincy. (And were I in Cincinnati, my favorite pregame dining spot would be Skyline.)
NCBravesFan
July 10th, 2009
5:03 pm
Well, now you’ve gone and put me on the spot Mark by having me answer a question!
Speaking personally as an ATL Braves, Falcs & Hawks fan living in NC, I would pay for the content and the commentary you, Schultz and DOB provide. However, the blog platform would have to be improved to make the sale for me (individual registration to comment and in DOB’s blog, a heck of a lot more comment moderation. Some of the comments that are allowed to stand in there I find offensive & meant to inflame, but I soldier on to get the scoop from DOB. And I know it’s not reflective of you guys so much as it’s reflective of resource allocation.)
If you agree with my thoughts here, I am NC Braves Fan. If not, I am Mrs. Chanandler Bong.
rlinaug
July 10th, 2009
5:10 pm
Mark, I didn’t know there was a British band called the Boo Radleys. Of modern bands, I am familar only with those whose music exhibits Merle Haggard’s influence. I threw in the Boo Radley reference, yesterday, cause the guy I was writing called himself Atticus. Anywho… have a great weekend and go Braves.
Mark Bradley
July 10th, 2009
5:12 pm
Thanks again, NC. And you raised a point I probably should address: The monitoring of comments. As noted, I try to do it myself, but sometimes something objectionable slips through. If any of you happen upon such a comment, please let me know.
But one more word here: We as a newspaper have made the considered decision to be fairly wide-ranging — I almost said “liberal” but I knew not to do that — in what we deem permissible. Cuss words aren’t. Racial epithets aren’t. Most everything else is. So, in sum, what’s objectionable to you mightn’t be objectionable according to AJC policy.
CincyJacket
July 10th, 2009
5:12 pm
Ahh see Mark, now I know I can trust your taste in food.
Mmmm Skyline
dawgdad
July 10th, 2009
5:14 pm
MB, good job with the blogs, enjoy when I have time. Would not pay to view AJC.com, just find somewhere else to get my sports. When you pay you have to register, give them a CC #, give them your email address, and the spam and ridiculous offers follow. Avoid it if I can. I think the info on the users is more valuable than the fee.
Dawgdrummer
July 10th, 2009
5:14 pm
Mark…I remember when they started charging for the columnists. It was the day I stopped reading them! I don’t know if I would pay for access to the whole paper or not, but to single out the columnists was tacky. I have only recently started reading the columnists again and not all the time. So…are the powers at be willing to risk people just turning to other sources??? It is a big, wide web out there!
Mark Bradley
July 10th, 2009
5:15 pm
Actually, I’ve never bought a record by the Boo Radleys. (Anybody remember records?) But I have seen Merle H. in concert. Twice.
NCBravesFan
July 10th, 2009
5:25 pm
Mark: understood – and thanks! Is the AJC policy published on the web site anywhere? (Sorry – I’ve never looked for it, and I don’t recall seeing it before.)
JSS
July 10th, 2009
5:40 pm
Never took you for Kurosawa fan but “Throne of Blood” and “Rashomon” are much better… By the Mifume is the greatest actor to walk the planet…
Here’s one for you to watch with the wife and then tell me she is not very, very, very nice to you for showing it to her… “The World of Apu” by Satyajit Ray
Mark Bradley
July 10th, 2009
5:44 pm
I don’t know if it is published anywhere, NC. I’ll ask.
“Throne of Blood” is indeed a fine movie, JSS. Based on “MacBeth.” Which was pretty good itself.
Hillbilly Deluxe
July 10th, 2009
5:48 pm
You must be plumb tuckered out.
Nothing personal but I won’t pay for any on-line newspaper.
Mark Bradley
July 10th, 2009
5:50 pm
I take naps on weekends, Hillbilly. Like … right about now.
mike28212
July 10th, 2009
5:51 pm
Mark, I’m glad to hear you are enjoying the new format. I appreciate the effort you put into this on a daily basis. It was an added bonus a few months back to discuss Champions League with you.
Sting 'em Buzz
July 10th, 2009
5:57 pm
Mark, in thinking back to the pay per view of blogs round 1, there was no way I would ever pay to see something written by Mr. Moore. As for if there were a round two it would probably get rid of me as I would just have to stick with the Gainesville Times. Go Jackets!!!!
JSS
July 10th, 2009
5:57 pm
“Throne of Blood” (the style and narrative) gave Lucas the idea for what Star Wars would be… Can’t touch that literal wall of arrows in flight…
You just saw the “The Third Man?” (at my new nemesis)… Dude, “Movies Worth Seeing” http://www.moviesworthseeing.com/ make it a mission… There are about 90 films you need to explore…
Larry
July 10th, 2009
6:10 pm
Mark,
Count me in as one who would gladly pay an appropriate price for a quality product or service. This alone, for the same reason you see fees imposed strategically in other venues, would help eliminate much of the free loading rift raft we see on here. Further, if this fee would buy out the reluctance by you and others to be more honest, frank and courageous when the topic of Bobby cox comes up I’d be all for it!
I just happen to to be related to one of your long term employees at the AJC and I’m convinced that either there is an unwritten moratorium against speaking about Cox and the Braves in general to retain your access to him and the players and/or the AJC’s Braves advertising money for the AJC, or all of you combined are dumb as a box of rocks! I’ve never seen a group of writers so afraid to ask Bobby the touch questions and never–NEVER–challenge his managerial decisions. On the other hand, if this is just the way you are, the way you see it, and all of you see it this way, I wouldn’t pay a penny for such utter, unabashed, naivety and/or ignorance!
That’s as honest as I can be!
Hillbilly Deluxe
July 10th, 2009
6:19 pm
Francoeur has been traded to the Mets? Looks like your nap will be a short one, Mark.
BDawg
July 10th, 2009
6:21 pm
Hey Mark
Jewels and binoclouars hang from the head of the mule……but visions of Johanna make it all seem so cruel
Mark Bradley
July 10th, 2009
6:26 pm
Indeed it was, Hillbilly. About a half-hour nap.
Bat Masterson
July 10th, 2009
6:31 pm
I moved to the Florida panhandle a few years ago and miss getting the print edition, leafing through the pages I always felt serendipitious . I appreciate the regional flavor and would probably pay a small monthly fee for access, although i might have to get out and do some promoting to pay for it.
Ted Striker
July 10th, 2009
7:01 pm
Mark — You probably already know this bit of ‘Third Man’ trivia: The Harry Lime “cuckoo clock” line wasn’t in the original script. Orson Welles added it. That line made the movie for me.
I’d pay a reasonable fee for online access to AJC. If I use something regularly, I’m fine paying to enjoy it. (Now, if only I could figure out how to get back half of what I’ve paid scores of money for but don’t use).
I appreciate your disallowance of a certain word since it’s almost always misused and is typically mean-spirited. It’s not censorship because people can easily state their opinions without using that particular word. (But as mentioned before, it was absolutely perfect in ‘Gunga Din’)
Quick FYI. You likely know this already but the shortcut to search for a particular word or phrase is “Ctrl+F” (Windows) and “Command+F” (for Mac users like myself). Sometimes if I want to see if a particular person has commented, I’ll use the shortcut to look for their name.
Sage of Blueland
July 10th, 2009
7:04 pm
Blogging makes my butt itch.
The Colonel
July 10th, 2009
7:25 pm
Mark
Give us your thoughts on the Francouer trade. You have been so dead on about him already.
Mine are this:
I wish him the best–but in heading for NY–he is going from the sublime to the vicious when it comes to fan support. He will not fare well there. Too spoiled. Lou Gerhig used to pickle eels to help his family pay rent. Francouer is all jacuzzi and Jesus. He will be as revered there as a kleenex blowing down the street at 3a.m.
His problem has never been talent, just that he’s been coddled by too many folks–including jelly-brains like yourself. If he was hungry–instead of pampered–he’d be hitting .350 right now.
Bye, Jeff. Your sin is that you are soft. And, Bradley, you try to charge me 5 cents to blog with you and I will say goodbye to you, too.
Bob
July 10th, 2009
8:13 pm
Gotta be honest, I wasn’t a fan of alot of your print columns, but I do love the blog format! Think of it this way… It gives you two more times during the day to redeem yourself. Keep up the good work!
Mark Bradley
July 10th, 2009
8:52 pm
Thanks for the tip, Ted. I need all the computing help I can get.
A Kleenex blowing down the street at 3 a.m. Colonel, that isn’t from “Visions of Johanna.” But it shoulda been.
And it’s now, as you’ve probably noted, 103 posts in 40 days. Here’s my Francoeur react.
The HeldenFiles: Stark County on TV | Monday Night Football Betting Coaching Club
July 10th, 2009
9:10 pm
[...] Questions about my blog? Pretty cool, huh? A picture of this post atop this post. High-tech, like. If you’re counting at home – and literally, I just did – this marks my 102nd post in 40 days. [...]
Ernest
July 10th, 2009
9:37 pm
Mark, good job with the online blog. The fact that you monitor and respond to posts makes this more interactive. You seem like a natural for this format.
I’m probably still one of the few people that still get the print edition (something about having a paper in your hand while drinking coffee) and have considered eliminating it since I spend quite a bit of time with the online version. When you consider I pay over $200/year (the coupons help pay for the investment), I would probably pay the $60/year if I did so. I wonder if I would be in the minority because if the other papers are not doing this, the AJC may loss readership via the Internet. That would surely have an impact to Internet Ad revenue.
slimpickens
July 10th, 2009
9:44 pm
Fire Mark Brdley!
C. Allen
July 10th, 2009
10:11 pm
This is the best explanation I’ve seen yet of what the AJC is doing with blogs. You seem to have adapted splendidly! Looking forward to reading the other AJC blogs.
Thunderbull56
July 10th, 2009
10:42 pm
10:38 ‘09 ,no 10:39 Bull’s behind the times and Braves are less a Frenchman.Luv ‘tha MB love fest, NOT.Blog on ‘ye’s.
Chuckles
July 10th, 2009
11:28 pm
Mark – Great job on the online blogification. You are giving Rodney Ho a run for his money!
As for the viability of the ‘pay for online AJC’ idea, well, it’s inevitible. The Wall Street Journal has been charging for years, and they’re doing just fine. The trick is the cost, and the method of payment.
The ‘folks who sign checks’ value the content too highly: this content should start cheap, and slowly be increased over time as the print version dries up. $5/month is way too high. Think yearly fee, like less than $50. The magic number may be less than $20 even. Too small? It’s $20 more than you are getting NOW, and if the methods of delivery are increased for the same fee, you will see a rapid adaptation of this idea.
What am I talking about? Front-end mobile device applications. USA Today has the best iPhone/Android/Windows Mobile client. Yes, they still have the website, and yes, it’s still free.
But if you go to a paid model – where you charge $20 for full content, free for headlines (like the WSJ does) and allow access via well designed front end interfaces for these devices, or for desktop/laptop systems, with lots of legacy archive search, print & repurposing technologies, and yes, multimedia, you would have something there.
How would it be best paid for? Other than the obvious (credit card) I suggest you look at the best current micropayment model – The iTunes store. Under 25 folks have iTunes card credits coming out of their ears. Partner with Apple to create a newspaper section of the iTunes store (along with, say, other Cox properties?), use Apple’s expertise in interface and app design to make it all work, and allow purchase of the product via the iTunes route – on demand via a per-copy cost like you do with the paper (.25c?) or subscription.
Sorry about the long-winded response, but I’m a developer, and we’re doing this RIGHT NOW with other types of content and making significant money. You could too, if management gets bold & does this right. AccessAtlanta was (and is) a half-baked version of this idea that was before its time and badly executed. Do it right & save your business.
Mark Bradley
July 10th, 2009
11:40 pm
Thanks, Chuckles. I never thought I’d be interested in technical stuff like that, but suddenly I am.
Ted Striker
July 11th, 2009
7:45 am
“And, Bradley, you try to charge me 5 cents to blog with you and I will say goodbye to you, too.”
Safe bet that dude never used 10 stacks to make it rain in the club.
sharecropper
July 11th, 2009
7:47 am
Well, I dunno how you get all the way from “thug” to “racial,” but okay, if you say so. What I really don’t understand is how anyone can expect to “blog” three times a day and have any serious import. That ain’t blogging, that’s twittering. Hold it to 140 characters and keep on a going.
ATL Longtimer
July 11th, 2009
9:12 am
Mark,
Born and raised in Atlanta. I now live in NYC, but follow Atlanta news through the AJC online. Love your columns and posts – you’re actually funnier than you think, and your thoughts on Atlanta sports are usually in line with my own, which means we’re both never right. Keep up the great work.
Loyal Homer
July 11th, 2009
10:25 am
Mark,
I enjoyed this blog! Sounds like you are a busy guy these days! I always enjoy your stuff. Don’t always agree with you, but then again, it’s not your job to have an opinion that pleases everyone.
Would love for you to check out a blog that two colleagues and myself have created. Actually getting pretty in-depth now. The debate we currently have posted is about the relevance of the home run derby. We try to discuss a different topic 5 days a week. Just a hobby of ours.
Give it a look and give us some feedback.
http://www.thesportsdebates.com
Loyal Homer
July 11th, 2009
10:29 am
And no, I’m not posting a link to be aggravating to everyone else!
I’m not sure about the pay service. I’m 27 and live in South Georgia and remember clearly when you guys did that. I’m not sure that would work Mark. South Georgia doesn’t get the AJC anymore and I know a lot of people, myself included, who come online to get the latest in-depth stories on the Braves, UGA, GT, Falcons, Hawks, etc. We don’t get much out of the AP stories that are posted in the local papers.
George P. Burdell
July 11th, 2009
10:34 am
Congratulations on the most honest and candid piece that I’ve ever seen you write. Some highlights, Mr. Bradley, for my praise:
“I work in Digital at the AJC now, not Sports” — thank you for clearing that up; I didn’t realize that you were ever considered a sports reporter.
“Not to say something good, but something new”. — no comment needed.
“I’d be lying…” — repeated several times. Finally, some reality.
The many pictures and references to non-sports related topics — we get it, Mr. Bradley. You didn’t have much worth writing before; now that you must blog, you will show your contempt for the AJC and readers by filling space with unrelated items.
wxwax
July 11th, 2009
11:19 am
George P. Burdell needs to get laid in the worst possible way.
MannyT
July 11th, 2009
11:56 am
Paying for information on the internet…only if it is unique and useful. One of the challenges with the pay for web thing is why pay fof something at site A that is available for free at site B.
As for the digital insights, I think I’d go for 2 posts a day. On special occassion, I’d use that 3rd slot for interactive style chat. You present speaker and have web dialog for 30-60 minutes. You might be able to get people to pay for some of that exclusive chat access. Chats could be posted once they are done…but no subscription, no chat with the digitally interesting personality.
Don
July 11th, 2009
12:07 pm
Has anyone heard how Jeff Schultz is recovering from his/her gender reassignment surgery?
BT
July 11th, 2009
12:16 pm
Thanks Mark for your writing/blogging and your small insight into what is happening in the newspaper business. Looks like you guys are trying to “revamp” an industry rather than becoming extinct. Hope AJC leaves you alone to do your thing.
Political Man
July 11th, 2009
1:48 pm
Not sure what gets thrown on my driveway every morning deserves to be called a newspaper. I’m just waiting to pull the plug. Been getting it for 35+ yrs. I disagree that the AJC is “leftist.” Not with the likes of Wooten wasting newsprint. One more comment. AJC has not figured out to do online. But they are not alone. The disappearing blog is more irritating than interesting.
Hillbilly Deluxe
July 11th, 2009
4:30 pm
I enjoy the fact that you drop in here from time to time to respond to comments and discuss things. Also I appreciate the fact that you can do that without coming off as pompous and/or arrogant.
Mark Bradley
July 12th, 2009
12:48 am
A word here: I didn’t “check in,” as Hillbilly says, today much because I try to stay off the Internet at least one day a week. Don’t usually succeed, but I try. Computers, as you know, can be addicting.
Gumby
July 12th, 2009
11:58 am
Mark I continue to enjoy your writing in the blog world as much as I did in print. Keep up the good work. I am happy with the new format and as always find your common sense refreshing. As far as working at home I have been doing it since 1998, except for a brief period of foolishness on wanting to work in “downtown” ATL, and find it’s just a mindgame. I remind myself I am am work and not at home to watch TV, although admittedly the Braves games are on when I work at night. Just with the volume lowered when I’m on the phone.
Benjamin
July 12th, 2009
2:54 pm
I doubt my opinion on the topic matters too much on the whole, Bradley, but while I’ve warmed a great deal to you through reading your blogs — you are the Mike Marshall of the blogging world, in my opinion, turning out so much quality work on a consistent basis with the new forum that I’ve come to appreciate your stuff here a great deal more than I did while growing up reading your stuff — I cannot say that I’d pay to view ajc.com.
I understand the reasoning behind it. In many parts of this world you have to pay to play, for lack of a better phrase. But there are too many free, local sites that turn out good stuff for me to make room in my budget for viewership of this site.
Keep up the great work, though. You are one of my bookmarks, and I’m not a bookmark person.
Also, to echo HIllbilly, I must also say that it’s refreshing to see you active within the community. I’ve always hated impersonal blogs, and I like reading your comments — and the commentary of others — as much as I enjoy reading your blogs!
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