While it gets no play in the general media, Massachusetts has a fast developing and engaging community of progressive bloggers chatting every day about local, state and national politics. They take on the Globe, the Herald, and each other. And as the general media becomes increasingly vapid and out to lunch, it’s worth recognizing and celebrating this new part of the MA political landscape. The easiest way to keep in touch with MA blogs is by checking the Massachusetts page of the website, leftyblogs. Yes, I know, many of you readers don’t consider yourselves “lefties” – don’t let that keep you from missing this great site.

There’s this false image of bloggers as antisocial nerds – it’s wrong; the bloggers we know are connected, smart, perceptive, and full of unique takes on MA political developments you won’t find anywhere else. This week, a series of blog entries at leftyblogs comments from many perspectives on the MassACT ballot initiative signature drive. One of the our favorites is Blue Mass Group run by a trio which includes opera singer Charley Blandy (whose wife just had a baby – congrats!). Other worthy sites: Cape Cod Works, Frederick Clarkson, Marry in Massachusetts, the Eisenthal Report, wonk Not!, and Left In Lowell, among others. These folks are helping to keep real democracy alive in Massachusetts – they deserve our attention and respect.

Elsewhere on the trail, today my signature total in week one is up to 88. Got several signatures of note: Boston Mayor Tom Menino, State Reps. Mary Grant and Ellen Story, and Dr. Don Berwick, President and CEO of the Institute for Healthcare Improvement. Don’t be square – get on the signature bandwagon today – massact.org