In addition to positioning their authors as thought leaders, blogs have other positive qualities. We love their Google-worthiness. Touchpoint has recently helped two clients launch their new web logs, and we’re delighted to see them developing a loyal following AND improving their SEO.

Darryl Cobb of Charleston-based Cobb Architecture is musing about great design on his architecture-oriented blog.

And Sean McLernon, CEO of STEALTH, is taking a leadership role in the wireless industry with his frequent posts, videos and links to all things “concealment” on the STEALTH blog.

Check out this gorgeous, glossy new book: The Photographers Guide to Charleston, Savannah and the Coastal Islands by Jeff Dodge. It’s part how-to for photographers, part travelogue, and a whole lot of information and beauty. Published by an imprint of Workman Publishing, the book hits news stands June 6. Dodge will be doing signings around the Coastal area; give a shout if you’d like more info!

We were really proud to bring home two trophies from the recent SCPRSA Mercury awards.

That’s because they signify what we already know: we have the extraordinary good fortune to work with the best clients around! As a result, our social media/Facebook campaign for Cupcake took home a Silver Wing Award, and our collaboration with JMC Charleston on the fundraising premier of Dear John for Carolina Autism netted a Mercury Award.

In the end, our rewards come every day, in the form of our clients’ improved business performance.

Raising a glass to Peter Shankman today, who just wrote a very cogent treatise on why anybody who claims to be a social media expert should be shown the door.

Why? It’s like saying: “I’m applying for this marketing job because I’m really good at writing headlines.” Oh sure, headlines are important. But what about all the other stuff that goes into creating and executing a winning marketing plan. Social media - like headlines - is only a part of it. Doing it well is important. Understanding the rules is key. Check out Peter’s take. Then share yours!

Our company strives to be pretty green. We seriously limit printing, turn off computers and lights that aren’t running and recycle (a lot!). And we’re always excited to work with like-minded companies.

We’ve been having lots of fun lately with Charleston Naturally, an online e-tailer that recently bucked the trend by opening a bricks-and-mortar site in Mount Pleasant. If you missed their Grand Opening at 918 Lansing Drive, don’t despair. They’re offering frequent sales and specials, in-store and on-line, and have an ever-evolving mix of products.

Hint: Charleston Naturally is THE place to go for wedding, shower, graduation and baby gifts. Just sayin’…