People like Matt Drudge are often held up as examples of how the web has changed the balance of access to the media. However, a much more substantial and organized independent media is beginning to take form. This workshop will explore the concept of an open newswire, allowing independent media organizations and individuals to distribute news reports to a mass audience. Elements of sites such as Slashdot, HNN, 2600, and indymedia.org will be discussed. If you want to get involved in these historical developments, this is a good start.