July 16, 2009
W2 could mean worldwide in 2010
By BOB MACKIN, 24 HOURS

An alternative to both VANOC's official media centre and one sponsored by the provincial government is proposed for the new Woodward's complex.

Social media strategist Kris Krug said talks are underway to host the True North Media House in the W2 Community Media Arts Centre.

"We're just a bunch of kids who are doing social media and online media and we just want to cover the Olympics," Krug said. "We're banding together to share sources, resources, photographers, places to work, press briefings."

Krug and Dave Olson are leading a local new media group that sought access to the Games through VANOC and the B.C. 2010 Winter Games Secretariat.

"We were shut out and frozen out at every step of the way," Olson said.

Krug said the International Olympic Committee is reluctant to open the doors wide to new media, fearing that it will erode the value of international TV contracts.

They adopted an if you can't join them, beat them with kindness strategy and conceived the True North Media House.

They plan to offer space to 1,000 local and international journalists during the Games, with an emphasis on independent, new media outlets.

The facility will include video editing booths, an interview set and press conference facilities.

Anyone interested is invited to join them for a 6 p.m. Thursday meeting.

RSVP through True NorthMediaHouse.com

CANOE.CA