Byron Beck, formerly of Willamette Week, launched a new website this week and talked to OMC about what he's up to. Beck started writing online under the title "Byron Beck's Window" after being laid off from WW last November. He had been a staff writer and "Queer Window" columnist for the paper, and had previously been special sections editor for the newsweekly.

OMC: What was your plan when you started writing at Byron Beck's Window?

BB: It was what I call a "heavy sigh" moment. I wasn't sure I wanted to do a "blog"—such a nasty word in the print journalism world—but I knew I wanted to continue reporting and commenting on the people, places (and, yes, the parties) that I had covered for Willamette Week. The best way to put it is: "same show, different stage."

OMC: What are the biggest differences between writing for a newspaper and writing for yourself? Are there more challenges or benefits?

BB: Editors. I miss having someone to kick my ass into gear or challenge me to do better. I also miss the news room. There is nothing like a good news room. Nothing.

I love the instant adrenaline rush of the blog/twitter/facebook "breaking news" world. But the challenge is to go beyond that and see what kind of real reporting you can do via a blog.

OMC: Are there any websites you're looking at as a model for success?

BB: Sure, but I am not going to tell you that.

OMC: Are you hoping to make this your main source of income?

BB: For the last year I haven't made a dime off the old site. So, to answer that question, no, not yet.

OMC: Many people say that they hate gossip and that it's irresponsible. Is there a difference between a good gossip columnist and a bad gossip columnist?

BB: Get your facts right. Don't burn your sources. Don't be a jerk. And, drawing a penis on a face is so 2008.

OMC: Do you have any additional plans for your site's future?

BB: I do, but first I am just thrilled to finally have the new one up and running. Blogging isn't for babies.

OMC: If you're ok with sharing, what sort of traffic is your site getting?

BB: The old site was averaging about 10,000 visitors per month.

You can visit the new ("and improved!") Byron Beck website at byronbeck.com.