So, as the guru/manager/evangelist of this site, I spend a fair amount of time reading about technology, social networking, etc. I'm a geek with a pen (or keyboard, as is the case) and a flair for words.

So, in honor of my geekiness, I'm going to try and write every once in a while about tech topics, and relate them to MySLOCounty and the Trib. We'll start with my favorite thing ever, RSS feeds.

OK, so what are RSS feeds?

Here's a definition that I wrote up for a web glossary that I never ended up giving to people.

RSS: short for Real Simple Syndication. A format for distributing content from across the Web. Sites like newspapers, blogs and magazines use RSS. RSS feeds can be read through a feed reader and are automatically updated.

What's the benefit of RSS feeds?

I counted one day and I read over 100 blogs, newspapers, e-zines and magazines. It's a lot to filter through and there's no way that I'm going to sit there wit ha bookmark list and click and scroll every day.

RSS allows me to have all the information for these media in one spot. Some people have feeds downloaded to a off-line program (like NewsGator's FeedDemon for Windows or NetNewsWire for Macs) so they can read without being online. I use Netvibes, which also functions as a start page. Google and Yahoo home pages do the same thing (although they're not as nifty). Some Web browsers, like my favorite Firefox, also have feed readers built in.

How do I get started with RSS feeds?

First you've got to get a feed reader of some sort. If you're constantly on the computer, a browser-based or web-based reader is probably best.

If you travel a lot, or prefer to spend time off-line once in a while, a off-line reader program is best. It's also good for those times when the Internet isn't working for one reason or another.

Set yourself up with one of these and start looking for the little RSS icon (it's orange with squigglies on it) on your favorite pages. (pssst, you can find all of the Tribune's RSS feeds here.)

Copy-paste the link into your feed reader and you're all set to go!

Now, a secret.

I'm working on a something special for the Trib with feed readers. It's taking longer than I thought (five minute project turned into two-week project?), but it'll be ready soon.

Keep your eyes peeled.