In the past we noted that a Facebook group isn't really the best tool for a long-term group conversation. They tend to die-off after a little bit of time. But, if you have an event, with a date attached to it, Facebook seems to work wonders: It's quick, easy and free.

Wordpress has also entered into that space. The new theme (described below by Reportr.net) looks like it could be set up in a snap and could organize conversation around breaking news: The Souther California fires, Virginia Tech, Katrina. I don't wish for any of these to happen again, but I've always said if they do, journalists should have a "community in the box" content management system that will allow them to be a conduit for others to speak through.