I have seen some very successful blogging communities and some not so successful ones. I have to say, the more networking in the blogging community that you do the more successful you are, regardless of the writing material. So having a blog network is a grand idea, Brian! I'm sorry to hear it won't be associated with Chronicles. I think it's a great way to promote more writers (I not being one of them) especially those young talented ones!
Let me know if I can help in anyway... I'm game for blogging!