Blog Launched to Promote a Better West Virginia

Entrepreneur seeks to better West Virginia's image and economy, by launching new blog (www.aBetterWestVirginia.com) to facilitate understanding and productive discussion regarding the state's culture, economy, and government.

South Charleston, WV (PRWEB) June 22, 2007 -- While the state of West Virginia recently celebrated its 144th birthday, an area entrepreneur launched a Web site to facilitate dialogue about the state's past, present and future. In terms of focus, www.aBetterWestVirginia.com will primarily explore state culture, the "new economy," and government.

"We're trying to establish constructive discussion, without deference to any particular agenda, to promote forward thinking about the state's opportunities and challenges," says Jason Keeling, a public relations consultant and Marshall University graduate student.

The site is distinguished by its use of an emerging Internet technology that allows readers to easily comment in response to posted articles. This technology is commonly referred to as a Web log or "blog." No special software is required to participate.

Keeling wants to reach West Virginia's business, academic and political communities, in addition to attracting readers that have relocated from the state to other areas of the country. Initially, Keeling will post updates on a weekly basis, informing the public of area initiatives, research, events, and most importantly, generating productive discussion. Area leaders are being recruited to post on the blog, and Keeling is also seeking input from "up and coming" students and professionals across the state.

Current posts on aBetterWestVirginia.com highlight a "creative class" whitepaper to be released June 25 by "West Virginia: A Vision Shared." Recent topics of discussion include Business Network International's (BNI) impact within the state, along with the latest Komen Community Challenge rally in Charleston. Internet communication technologies will be explored on occasion, says Keeling, to expose readers to the ever-changing uses of the World Wide Web.

In 2004, Keeling Strategic Communications began participating within the Advantage Valley Entrepreneurial League System (ELS), which provides coaching, professional collaboration, and technical assistance to area business start-ups. Keeling attributes his involvement within the ELS as a significant factor in his decision to create aBetterWestVirginia.com.

www.aBetterWestVirginia.com

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