Thanks

Of the 4,668 posts that I've published over the past 23 months, this one is, by far, the toughest (and longest) one to write.

With a heavy heart, Chantel and I have made the difficult decision to leave Kentucky at the end of the month and are moving to Montana (Chantel's home state). It was a tough decision, but after talking it through for some time, we were convinced it was the right one for us.

More than four years ago, I convinced Chantel to move to Kentucky after Speaker Jody Richards (D) asked me to manage his gubernatorial primary campaign. We expected it to be a three month stop on our way to New York or Washington or some place else. But as life often happens, unexpected opportunities kept us here a lot longer than predicted, including managing now U.S. Rep. Ben Chandler's (D) 2003 gubernatorial general election campaign (which we lost) and his subsequent congressional special election and re-election (which we won). When Ben decided last year not to run for governor, we began to wonder whether the time was right for us to look for a fresh start elsewhere with new challenges. The fist-fighting I've had to do with the Fletcher administration this year only re-affirmed the sentiment.

Beginning June 1st, we'll be calling Helena, Montana our new home. Chantel has had a long relationship with Montana Gov. Brian Schweitzer and he's encouraged her countless times to come back home. He finally succeeded. Though we're not moving for a particular job, I am excited to move to a state where Democrats have clearly excelled in just the past few years, and am hopeful that Kentucky is not far behind the curve.

For me, I'm looking forward to stepping out of the political vortex for the first time in awhile, and I'm not sure what I will do next, though I realize there are many questions about what will happen to BluegrassReport.org.

The short answer is that I'm not sure.

I recognize the impact that BGR has had on the state's political environment -- particularly for Democrats -- and I don't want that to end. In less than two years, the site has attracted 1.8 million visitors and 5 million page views –- and continues to double the traffic received by the Herald-Leader's Pol Watchers, the second most visited political blog in the state, after BGR.

Yet, the site is also a small business that I've built from scratch by working at it full-time for two years and it's become a valuable asset. According to some valuation models out there, BGR has a low six-figure worth based on a numerous metrics from traffic, links from other sites, and its high Google Page Rank (hence driving a ton of search engine traffic). The site also generates about $20,000 a year in ad revenue from a variety of sources without any effort on my part, an amount that could be doubled or tripled with minimal effort. 

Nevertheless, I realize that part of this asset is me and my contacts, and sources and contacts don't transfer, they have to be developed and nurtured over time. So, if I sell the site, I may have to stay on for an extended period of time to help new writers develop their own relationship with you (readers) and as they establish their own political contacts and sources. And aside from its financial worth, BGR is a ready-made platform to debate politics with the core of Kentucky's political and media insiders, not to mention the regular readership the site gets from national observers who closely follow state politics. (e-mail me or Terry McBrayer if you are interested in a possible purchase).

Alternatively, I've been encouraged by some to consider launching a national, but focused, site and simply morph BGR into that effort, allowing me to take advantage of the brand and traffic and build a national site with a wider audience than the 100,000 page views I get each week on BGR. But that would end BGR as a Kentucky-specific site.

So, I'm torn and undecided.

In the meantime, I'm simply going to keep writing and keep BGR alive and well even if it means doing so for several months while in Montana (all I really need is internet and a phone to do my job) until I make a final decision on things.

I don’t know if I can fully express how grateful I am to all of you who come here every day and read the posts and the 70,000 comments or leave your own. My job has largely been that of a moderator. You all have made this site your own and special. I tried never to forget that, while doing the best work I could each and every day. It’s been a humbling experience for me.

Regardless of what happens to BGR, I do hope others will pick-up what we started and built with BGR and maintain a critical and necessary voice in the political debate, one way or another. We can’t simply rely on political parties and elected officials to just do the right thing.

There's no doubt that BGR and other blogs have been part of a national revolution that started not long ago where the internet and blogs have shown that you don't need to be a big donor or political party insider to have a meaningful voice. We've been fortunate to be on the leading edge of that revolution. We won more than we lost, weren't afraid to fight to force change, and left things better than we found them, even if it meant fist-fighting our way on occasion. But like any revolution, the people that start it often aren't the ones that finish it (see Howard Dean), and now seems like the right time to ask that others, with more energy and a fresh perspective, take it to the next level here in KY.

I'm so incredibly proud of the work we've done here, both through the campaigns we've been part of and through BGR itself.  Kentucky is a tough place for politics. The good guys don't seem to get a fair shake as often as other places, and I often fear that we're still a lot closer to the beginning -- than to the end -- of real political change. But we've made noticeable progress in a short time and I am so incredible encouraged about Tuesday's primary elections and the rapid changes that are happening, ensuring that good Democrats are now going to run the show for the time being.

As I wrote on BGR this morning, I'm excited that the top of the order for the new Democratic line-up will include Steve Beshear, Dan Mongiardo, Crit Luallen, Jack Conway, Jonathan Miller and Jennifer Moore. That's the nucleus of a team that can bring fundamental change to Democratic politics in this state, not to mention how important of a role groups like Change for Kentucky, The Women's Network, and the energized efforts by organized labor, have been to help change the dynamics.

But BGR taught me other important lessons that I hadn’t expected.

While never wavering from my passion and faith in Democratic Party philosophy, my work on BGR provided me an unexpected opportunity to get to know many of the truly talented and impressive top Republicans in the state. (Yes, Republicans are people too.). And while I have profound differences with them on philosophy, and believe that we look at the world through very different prisms, I've come away from this process with a profound respect for their desire for a better commonwealth, their belief in good and ethical government, and for being fierce competitors who love to play political chess as much as I do. People like Trey Grayson, Billy Piper, Rick Robinson, Ellen Williams, John David Dyche, Michael Clingaman, Patrick Neely, Les Fugate and Steve Manning are just a few of those Republicans (at least among those I'll mention publicly -- I'm not going to give away everyone!). I'm a better person for knowing or having competed against them.

On the Democratic side, one of the most inspiring thing about Tuesday's election was that some of the state's top-shelf young talent has been pushed to center stage as we head into the general election. With Jonathan Miller tapped to be the next Democratic chairman and Jennifer Moore as vice chair, and Jack Conway as our nominee for Attorney General, Democrats have to be hopeful that the time has now come for the next generation to step-up and assume critical leadership. Meanwhile, we're looking forward to seeing others like Adam Edelen, Kerry and Shannon Morgan, Craig Greenberg, Dan Borsch, Mike Bailey, Chad Aull, and Jeremy Horton assume even greater roles, and hope that first time candidates like Andrew Horne, Amy Shir, and Jimmy Moore get back into the arena and run again because we know they'll be standouts when they're elected. And let's hope Kentucky gets to see more of John Y. Brown III and Irv Maze in the coming years.

And one of the more important developments in Kentucky Democratic politics during the past few years has been the growth and increasing stature of political organizations outside the formal political structure. Groups like Change for Kentucky and The Women's Network have really made an impression in such a short period of time, and we can’t forget how awesome it’s been to witness the resurgence of the power of organized labor. Finally, we also need more political blogs -- from all sides of the political divide -- to engage and debate in a passionate way. We need more debate, not less. It keeps us informed, makes us thinks, and forces us to assess our own philosophy. That’s a good thing.

I'll also miss the talented political reporters in this state who do great work, day after day. And while I don't see them much these days, I have a profound soft spot for Al Smith and Al Cross, two real pros who are rich in history and perspective and who I first got to know in 2003 while managing my first Kentucky race. They taught me so much and they probably didn't even realize it.

And of course, there's Ben Chandler, someone who became as much a friend as he was a candidate that I worked for, and whose own encyclopedic knowledge of Kentucky, and politics in general, made it possible for this California transplant to accelerate the insane learning curve that us outsiders encounter when dropped into the whirlwind of campaigns in this very complicated state. As disappointing as it was to lose the 2003 governor's race, helping Ben get elected to Congress more than made-up for it and it clearly a better fit for him.

There's nothing that's wrong with Kentucky politics that can't be fixed by what's right about it. Democrats should feel good about the big first step they took on Tuesday night. There's much to be hopeful about, but we always need to ask the tough questions, demand accountability from all of our leaders, and never stop shining light on every nook and cranny of our government and political system, regardless of their attempts to silence dissent or intimidate critics. Keep your chin up and keep fighting. Sometimes it feels like you’re climbing Mt. Everest without supplemental oxygen, but usually you’ll be shocked by the impact a single person can have over time.

There's a revolution going on, if you hadn't noticed. We can't afford to simply stand on the sidelines and watch. There is too much at stake.

Finally, thanks for making us feel at home in Kentucky during these past four years. I feel honored to have been part of the fight for a better political environment and to have gotten to know so many truly wonderful people during our time here, Democrats, Republicans and Independents. It’s been something. 

While I'm certain that I'll continue my work on BGR for the near term, mlnickolas -at- gmail -dot- com is my permanent e-mail address for future reference. I'm sure I'll talk to many of you before we head for Big Sky Country.

With great affection and appreciation,

Mark Nickolas

P.S. -- I've been blown-away by all the e-mails this evening as word got out. I'm really humbled by the sentiments and look forward to responding to each of them.

Comments

[go_fletch]

Good riddance. You are a hack and a liar and I can't wait to see that you and your attitude of personal destruction are gone from our great Commonwealth. You are scum of the earth and this is one of the best pieces of news I've heard in some time.

You stinking tax cheat.

[CSI]

Sorry to see you go.

This site was a topic of conversation almost daily at work. It was great to finally give air to many of the normal state workers remarks who never had anywhere to get things off their chest.

I cetainly enjoyed having this site around and enjoyed the ability to make many of the posts I made.

I think this site had much to do with the Dems taking over government again... hopefully!

Good luck in Montana, wear a thick coat and buy a snow shovel.

[Lauren_Price]

Mark,
Although I am extremely sad that you and Chantel are leaving, you should know that both of you have made a lasting mark on both Kentucky politics and its people. You have served as a constant source of information and perspective and I don't know if anyone else will be able to live up to that! Be proud of the battles you fought in the Commonwealth. You and Chantel are special people and I look forward to seeing what is next for you both!

[Lauren_Price]

Mark,
Although I am extremely sad that you and Chantel are leaving, you should know that both of you have made a lasting mark on both Kentucky politics and its people. You have served as a constant source of information and perspective and I don't know if anyone else will be able to live up to that! Be proud of the battles you fought in the Commonwealth. You and Chantel are special people and I look forward to seeing what is next for you both!

[Daniel]

I wish you the best.

Montana's gain is our loss.

No one, I don't think anyone, can fill your shoes after all you have done. Not even myself. I'll do what I can but I doubt it will come close, even with my contacts.

But I am surprised that you didn't link to my Beshear blogterview.

[GratefulReader]

Mark - There is something fitting that on the day that Jerry Lundgeran announces he is stepping down as Democratic chairman you inform us you're are leaving.

I submit that there's no one more responsible than you for helping to create the necessary environment for the good Kentucky Dems to take back the party and win the nomination (even if you supported a different good guy) and set the stage for the positive political change we're seeing. I'm not suggesting that you are responsible for Beshear's victory, but rather you exposed the frauds of Lundergan, Lunsford, Henry, and so many others. Your work opened our eyes and made us all smarter and better voters. I didn't agree with all of your positions and efforts but I'm thankful you were fighting the good fight when no one else was. Your intelligence and raw guts will be sorely missed. I hate that we can't keep talented people like you for a longer period of time but we're so much better off for the years we had you.

Good luck with your new challenges and the beauty of Big Sky Country. Our loss is their gain. They will quickly realize how lucky they are to have you and I hope you and Schwitzer get to team-up. He is one Democrat we should be watching for in 2012 and beyond.

Godspeed.

[KY Indigo]

Mark,
Best of luck to you and your wife on your move. Thank you for all your work for Kentuckians. I sure hope BGR continues and that we see more good things from you two in Montana.

[Sam Wise]

Thank you Mark, for helping bring the corruption of Fletcher, other Republicans, and for that matter, some other Democrats, to light.

This tempers the wonderful news of the past few days, from the wins by Beshear and Conway to the progressive wind blowing through the halls of the KDP.

There is only one way you will let us down or not meet your obligation: Bluegrass Report must continue. I understand it's your blog, but you understand we have supported you, politically, emotionally and yes, financially every step of the way. This Blue State is heading back to its Blue roots, Mark. Don't let this resource slip away from us.

Thank you for facing the personal attacks against freedom of speech for the past two years. Ernie Fletcher and Robbie Rudolph have outpaced Richard Nixon and Spiro Agnew.

I never dreamed we would live in a state where imprisonment was used as a tool to try to silence critics, but you beat them back. Thank you.

[Steve Magruder (I, not D or R)]

Mark, the Fletcher cultists despise you (but then, they hate everybody and everything), Lundergan is deposed, and Lunsford's plagiarism was exposed (probably costing him the runoff). In other words, a JOB WELL DONE.

I hope this blog goes on under its original purpose, at least through the November election. Mark, we need your help to ensure that the criminal governor isn't re-elected. Realize that removing him will be very good for Democrats going into next year, so even if this blog goes national, I very much hope you continue to nail Ernie "Macbeth" Fletcher's truffles to the wall.

And dear leavewillya, the only sociopath I see is you, darlin'. A thin-skinned, hateful sociopath.

[Mark Nickolas Is Full Of Shit]

All I can say is .....

Good riddance!

Don't let the door hit you in the ass on your way out!

Kentucky's gain is Montana's loss!

Can we talk you into taking Wise, Magruder, Miles, CSI and countless others with you?

I would say we'll miss you ... but we won't.

In all seriousness, you have been a poison to political discourse in this state. You have smeared good people without reason and tossed false accusations around recklessly. What comes around goes around and you'll get yours someday. Perhaps on the business end of another tax evasion indictment? One can only hope.

[Steve Magruder (I, not D or R)]

As MNIFOS obviously demonstrates, when somebody like Mark dares to expose the truth about the sociopathic reich wing in this state, it burns these reichists to no end. Mark gave them hell, but it was only truth, and his opponents thought it was hell.

[Steve Magruder (I, not D or R)]

Another thing...

This blog has really helped me enhance my knowledge of and appreciation for Kentucky politics, and that has been very valuable.

It has also helped me sharpen my political speech, if I say so myself.

Thanks Mark for this as well. And I hope my experience applies to everyone else here as well.

[Big Sandy Political Junkie]

I'm glad that go_fletch and full of shit have illustrated so well the overwhelming "Christian spirit" of Fletcherites.....(let's all hold hands and sing "this little light of mine"). Your all's class, dignity and maturity makes me wonder why I switched parties.....

Mr. Nickolas, although I have only met you once, I have thoroughly enjoyed this site and the impact it has had on Kentucky politics. I have a feeling I picked a good time to become a Democrat.

[Joe]

I am sorry to see you go Mark. I have been a huge fan of this site for over a year now, and I hope you keep the site up to some extent for some time.

I don't believe anyone could replace you on the blogosphere, nor should they try. Whoever should run BGR, should you sell, I hope can develop their own voice, and hopefully they will use that voice as effectively as you have. Never the less, I will miss your posts...

Good luck in Montana, and I wish you and Chantel all the best!

[KYConcerned]

Mark,

I am very sad to see you go. I have grown addicted to your site due to the ability to discuss issues. I am not a state employee, but I do know by experience the Fletcherites aren't interested in the issues, they want power, and have a cut throat attitude that is not in the best interest of public service. The words public service don't have the same meaning to them as it does to the Democrats. I am sorry you won't be around for the campaign this fall, it will be very interesting. I wish you the best of luck, and hope you have success in your next endeavor.

Thanks for everything you have done for Kentucky.

[gregariousred]

Hey Mark, I'm sure you'll figure out the best thing to do with the site, and I hope someone is able to assume the mantle of intrepid KY blogger sooner, rather than later.

I'm curious though about your court case against Fletcher. Did it get resolved or will you still be fighting it from Montana?

I've really enjoyed reading your blog every day. Being new to Kentucky it's been good to have a place to go to read like-minded posts and comments, and also unlikeminded ones. I feel so much closer to KY politics than I was ever able to get in CA. I hope you'll find it the same in Montana.

gRed

[Willie K.]

Mark:
Best of luck in your new endeavors. You have certainly contributed to the Kentucky political landscape by providing a place where people can have a free and open discussion about the issues, without fear of retaliation (other than some smart-a@@ blogger nerd coming back with a zinger, which is often very entertaining.) We hope you continue the site for as long as feasible and find a suitable person to entrust it to for future development. You have sacrificed a great deal of your time and life for something you believe very strongly in, and for that you should be rewarded. They can call you a tax cheat all day, those same crooked bastards who want to lower taxes for the rich and soak the middle-class, but anybody with a brain knows you could have been making a lot more money with less personal risk by doing something else. Thanks for BGR.

[Robert Cumming]

WTF This was just getting good. Seems Fletcher gets two breaks now in the same week. Chet Huntley liked Montana , maybe you will too. Whatever you do , don't hold back.

[CoolerKing]

BGR is the best thing to happen for Kentucky Democrats in years. Mark's done a fantastic job with this site. I hope that somebody worthy steps up to keep it going after he's gone.

Thanks for all you've done Mark, and best of luck to you in Montana.

[Rich Miles]

...Can we talk you into taking Wise, Magruder, Miles, CSI and countless others with you?

Wow! I made it to the Big Leagues, getting mentioned in the same sentence with those other illustrious contributors!

Mark, you must reallllly like that woman. There aren't many people in the world for whom I'd move to Montana. I know it's beautiful up there, but hey, one can only look at scenery for so long before you have to do something else...

Ach weel, as the Scots say. Your choice.

One could have wished you'd stayed till November of this year. But then, Montana winters being what they are (hell, it was snowing in MAY, you said), that would mean staying till NEXT spring, and then we'd ask you to stay till November of 08, and....on and on. You might have ended up in an endless Kentucky political feedback loop, and wake up one day to discover you're the reincarnation of Ned Breathitt or some damn thing...

I actually had the thought, for about a minute and a half, that I might like to buy the site from you, but for many reasons, some of which you're aware of, it's not to be. But whatever happens to it, I'll be here as much as I can.

As some others have pointed out here, ain't it typical that the hatemongers have used this opportunity to get one last spew in on you and BGR? If ever there were a chance I'd be willing to change political affiliations (and there's not), these folks make it clear to me why that would be SOOOO not a good idea. To put it mildly.

So - wish ya luck, ol' son. Heck, I might even drop by for a visit some day. I hear it's beautiful in that part of the country... :-)

Your friend in progress,
Rich Miles

[Jim Anderson Stivers]

A benchmark in Kentucky Political History has been made. And it will be recognized for the value of its work. Bluegrass.org has established a free speech market for all to vent or praise of whatever you feel needs to be posted. And, many times, these post are seen as negative, when viewed by those with a different opinion.

Isn’t that what free speech is all about? Sure it is. Speak your mind, even it is negative. Everyone has a point they want to make.

If the purpose of free speech is for everyone to sit around and agree on everything, then what does that say?

If we all agree on the same thing, perhaps only one person is doing the thinking? That is unhealthy.

Bluegrass has created a spark that has grown, in spite of all the roadblocks that have occurred.
Some were self imposed, some for revenge, like the post that brags about being one of the people that reported Mark N. on his tax problems. Mark created that problem for himself, but he owned up to it quickly and it appears to have been resolved as far as the courts are concerned.

Mark N. was the lightning rod that created a spark that resulted in hundreds\millions\ posting on Bluegrass because they knew other political minds would read it.

It was and will be remembered as the BLOG SPOT that opened the door for more to exchange thoughts, criticisms or whatever the post felt need to be said.

If this is not free speech then try writing your daily post to a newspaper and see how many get into print.

The fact that the Herald Leader started POLWATCHERS and other blogs that are out there, resulted in the traffic and discussions that took place on Bluegrass.
It was the BUZZ.

And, we later find many of the blog post turned out to be major news stories in other media.
I don’t know if this traffic will turn to another blog or their venting or not.

You can bet one thing.

THE BLOGESPHERE IS ALIVE IN KENTUCKY. DUE TO BLUEGRASS.ORG
BIRTHING, A NEW WAY OF DISCUSSING POLITICS BEGAN AND IT CAUGHT ON.

And that is healthy.

[Eric]

While I highly value what you created for Kentucky, Mark, your announcement leaves me with disappointment and regret.

Kentucky is xenophobic, especially about former Californians. My family has been here since 1786. Like so many with deep Kentucky roots, I yearned to return. Yet when I did, I got a stiff shoulder or a fully turned back. I didn’t sue the state, like you. The state sued me. So did the Commerce Cabinet, and another state agency. Like you, I see the value of transparent government and pursued it as a fundamental democratic value. Like you, I got pummeled by political forces, hell bent on maintaining political corruption as a personal franchise. In a Commonwealth so beautiful, and with so much to offer, I can comprehend how disheartened you may have become in the struggle.

Your accomplishment with this blog will become more evident after you’ve gone. But remember, the blogesphere knows no borders. You may reside in Helena, a town founded in part by Kentuckians. You also may find how many of your new Montana neighbors came from Kentucky, some as early as the 1830s. But your computer in Helena remains your passport to the world, and Kentucky, too. Most everyday, all of my old Californian friends and I, who left California to live elsewhere throughout the world, still return to our computers, like a bunch of old farmers gathering around a stove in the general store. The farms we work may be in distant places, but our connection is right here. Think about it.

How fortunate you are to have Chantal. My girl friend wouldn’t even come with me to Kentucky. Said something like, “Why would I live in a place where I can’t get a glass of wine with dinner?”
Montana’s golden beauty can be a match for the bluegrass. But love and your political interests can remain your landscape. So why worry about leaving anything behind? You can still be in Kentucky, sitting around bluegrassreport.org here. All we need is someone to stoke the fire.

Many thanks for what you’ve done for us. And best wishes. On your way down the road, pick up a few extra rifles. You’ll need them.

[jaytn]

Mark:
I've sent you a personal email as well as posted similar comments on Pol Watchers. Suffice it to say, you have made a difference.

I wish you well. Happy Trails to you!

Jeff Noble

[WKDEM]

Well, best wishes to you my friend and thank you for providing this forum, even when it was difficult for you to do so--I believe I started reading and commenting from the beginning--this has been an exciting ride and no matter what happens the spirit of BGR will not fade--BGR was cutting edge for we political junkies here in Kentucky and for that I am most grateful--thanks and best wishes to you in the future--WKD

[jimbo]

Mark, Thanks for the insight, the dedication, and the mission. As I read through the comments here and on the other blogs I'm impressed with the quality of your supporters and the level of depravity of your detractors. I have felt over the last year that you have provided progressive democrats in Ky with a place to encourage one another in an otherwise hostile environment. When You started this endeavor "progressive" was a dirty word. Now that the national repubs are in disarray and the RPK is eating its own, your window has been instrumental in seeing the changes. Thank you for taking on the arrogance of Fletch, the shortcomings of Bruce, and the delusions of Henry. Much to the horror of your detractors you have had an impact. And to the many contributors I hope we'll be able to stay in touch. You too, STTI...flaming liberals need Attilla the Hun to keep them grounded. It's been a good run; my day won't be the same.

[Jimmy]

Well, golly, Mark. As are most of us, I’m surprised and a bit saddened that you’re leaving us - but family comes first, and it seems as though you’re doing the right thing.

I’m glad for having had the chance to get to know you. The best thing that came out of my brief foray into the world of politics was that I was able to meet so many great people. I can count a lot of the folks that you mentioned (both Republican and Democrat) as friends now, and although we may not always agree on the issues, I have the greatest respect for them for being talented, dedicated, passionate people. Add your name to that list as well.

Good luck to you and Chantel. You’ve helped to change the face of Kentucky politics, and no matter what happens to BGR, I feel pretty sure that we haven’t seen the last of you.

Lastly, thanks for all of your kind words of support. That means a lot to me. See you around the blogosphere, buddy.

Best regards,

James W. Moore

[kybigboy]

Mark,

It's been fun, but I can't say it's been real fun.

P.S. Don't forget, again, to pay your debt to the taxpayers of KY before you leave!

[anotherNKYdem]

Mark,
BGreport has been an oasis in the desert. Thank you for the battles large and small and the dogged determination to keep this thing real. We need a little California perspective around here, gets us to tilt our heads a little and pay attention. I hope Montana is good to both of you. I'm afraid there will always be a little bluegrass in you now. Just in case nobody ever told you-- the number one export from Kentucky has always been talented people.

[kentuckydave]

Mark,
I can't add to what has been eloquently stated above. This site and your passion has helped bring folk from around the bluegrass state to debate, dream and scheme about how to work for a more just and responsive government. Now that we are moving that way I guess it's time for you all to move on.
Thank you for your hard work. Good luck and God bless.
david o'brien suetholz

[EK Indy]

Mark,

Best of luck to you both with your move to Montana. You may have to change over to quarter-horses there though!

In your short time of 2 years with this blog you have made a very big impact on the visibility/reality of politics in this State - which has led to accountability for both parties to a certain extent.

As for me personally, I started reading and commenting regularly on this site about a month after you started it - some link from another site back during the merit system fiasco (*cough* aka witch hunt *cough*) brought me here. The information that you have provided has caused me to become much more involved with politics in our State - rather it was donating more, helping out candidates, or even just simply trying to tell/explain to friends what is wrong with our State government - Thank you for that very much.

[Kenneth Stepp]

Mark, we will miss you. The polls show the Democratic challenger enters the governorship race with a 62% backing of the voters, and it looks like Fletcher is going down the tubes this November. Good job on helping the Democrats and the People. I hope you have a great life in Montana. Kenneth Stepp.

[Kenneth Stepp]

Mark, we will miss you. The polls show the Democratic challenger enters the governorship race with a 62% backing of the voters, and it looks like Fletcher is going down the tubes this November. Good job on helping the Democrats and the People. I hope you have a great life in Montana. Kenneth Stepp.

[NKY Nick]

Had you not run this site like a fiefdom, you'd not have the problem with keeping the site going like you are.

Had this actually been a movement and not your cult of personality, it wouldn't die.

[Zork the Rabid Merit]

The post-election euphoria in my heart evaporated like bubbles in a stale soft drink when I read you are going. Banzai to you and your causes in the land where bomb building qualifies as political education; watch your car.

I think this time will be remembered in history as the time the blogosphere matured into a powerful force in the political process, and you will be revered in Kentucky as the first person who demonstrated how of one inspired reporter on the Web could start a tide of change by himself.

Every time there's a change in the political journalist landscape in Kentucky I worry that finally this is the time that the good people run out of voices to take their side, and the corporate Fox-Noise Republican/conservative/radical religious liars will triumph from their deep-cover bunker. Now I have those fears again. I'm sure new voices will take up the good cause again, but I'm always surprised when they do.

You had a great effect. I'm convinced you took a bullet that helped me and the other thousands of rabid Merits scrape by without further damage from the Fletcherites during this first and only term.

You shone the spotlight on their frauds, abuses and disregard for law, motivating public opinion and action within days where before BGR it had taken weeks or months or years, if the tides had turned at all.

So we thank you. Keep or sell BGR as you will and can. I hope it doesn't disband. As luck would have it, I had just mailed a contribution the day before I read your post. Use it to buy bubble wrap.

Hang in there. You helped get Kentucky back on the right track. Good luck in Montana. We'll remember you forever here.

[Nick Stump]

Well, it's been a lot of fun. Good luck, Mark. I'm sure you'll do well whatever you end up doing. You've provided a great forum here and here's hoping the Kentucky blogosphere will keep growing. You've certainly done your part. Best to Chantel and be safe on the road.

[jay.stallons]

we'll miss you, mark. best of luck in the future. kentucky is better for having had you here.

- j

[forthoush]

Good Bye, Good Luck! I call you when I am elected to the Ky Senate.