The crisis that whimpered.(Blackout 2003)(effects of power failure on publishing industry)

FOR MOST PUBLISHERS reporting to work the morning of August 18, spoiled yogurt in the office refrigerator and appointments needing to be rescheduled were the only reminders left of the worst blackout in U.S. history. As in businesses throughout the affected area--especially in New York--the flickering of the lights set off terrorism fears, which quickly dissolved into the headaches of getting home sans trains. But coming at a time of a year when the publishing industry is all but dormant, the blackout mostly amounted to a play day for those unfortunate enough not to already be on vacation.

As calamities go, the New York Times's Olson profile will live on in publishing …