Blogging about blogs

Last year, we listed some of Oklahoma’s best politics and policy blogs of the left, right, and center. We shared 15 blogs that are written by Oklahomans, have a political or policy focus, and are likely to keep you informed, amused, enlightened or outraged. Follow the link to rediscover those blogs, most of which continue to post regularly.

Rather then repeat ourselves this time around, we are broadening our focus to look at blogs covering other aspects of Oklahoma. Some of these bloggers write about municipal issues that, while not always receiving as much attention as state and national politics, can have as much or more impact on our daily lives. Others drift farther from public policy, but they share some of the culture and entertainment (and food!) that bring our communities alive.

• A Downtown on the Range: Nick Roberts describes himself as “your typical OKC enthusiast… who’s not always enthused.” Roberts tracks the urban development of Oklahoma City, writing passionately and knowledgeably about what developers and policymakers are getting right, as well as when they go off track.
• OKC Central: Steve Lackmeyer covers downtown OKC for The Oklahoman. On his blog, he adds background to stories, engages with commenters, and offers news and observations in a more conversational style than what appears in the paper.
• Doug Dawgz Blog: A blog dedicated to Oklahoma City, past, present, and future. Doug Dawg regularly unearths interesting stories and photographs from OKC history, and he is an excellent resource for following city council politics.
• Batesline: Michael Bates is a conservative blogger who we also featured on last year’s list, but he primarily writes about City of Tulsa issues that blur partisan lines. Bates does his research, often digging up information that you won’t find anywhere else.
• okc.net: A group blog/web magazine featuring stories on local music, comedy, comics, and some politics and news. Especially recommended is the series by Leah Kayajanian, recently relocated from Norman to Los Angeles, about her experiences as a stand-up comic.
• The Art of Manliness: Tulsans Brett McKay and his wife Kate write from the perspective of Martha Stewart’s macho alter-ego. Want to learn how to whittle? They’ve got you covered. Throwing a holiday party? They can help with that, too.
• Red Dirt Chronicles: Another group blog that covers a wide range of topics, by contributors who “love Oklahoma and have a little Red Dirt running through their veins.”
• Tulsa Food: Their tagline says it all: “Tulsa food & dining casually reviewed by ordinary people with a passion for food.” They also provide a weekly deal, usually for half off at a Tulsa-area restaurant. A great way to expand your culinary horizons.
• Oklahoma Rock Newsblog: Music videos, CD releases, interviews, and news on thousands of Oklahoma musicians.

If you know of any great Oklahoma blogs not included here, let us know in the comments!