Almost... (Wizbang)

I have been blogging here at Wizbang for almost five years.

I have written almost 4,000 articles.

I have collected almost 80,000 comments on those articles. (Excluding spam, contest entries, and my own comments.)

And it appears I will not reach any of those landmarks.

Last week, I was contacted by Sam Munson, the online editor of Commentary Magazine's blog, Contentions, about becoming a contributor. I was flattered as hell, and Sam and I had a good talk about what it would entail. Naturally, there were some strings attached:

1) I would only write about subjects that the readership of the magazine would find interesting.

2) I would have to give up my anonymity.

3) I would have to commit to them exclusively.

4) I would have to submit my articles to an editor for review before publishing.

I thought about it a while, consulted with numerous friends, and in the end made the very hard decision to accept Sam's offer -- only after I spoke with Kevin and told him about the offer, and how I was inclined to accept it.

Leaving Wizbang is one of the hardest decisions I have ever had to make. While I've only been a writer for less than five years, it was over five years ago that I first started posting comments here and winning the caption contest on a regular basis. Indeed, I often boast that my blogging career is built on a base of fart jokes.

And now I'm a regular contributor to the online version of Commentary.

I have nothing but praise for my colleagues here at Wizbang. Kevin nominally put me in charge of them, but that almost never meant anything. (Hell, half the time Kevin changed my title, he didn't bother to tell me about it or what it meant -- I'd just notice that at some point the masthead had changed.) They are as fine a group of writers, thinkers, and people as I have ever been privileged to work with, and I shall miss them all dearly.

Even more importantly, I will miss you, the readers. I have always measured the success of my work in the reactions of others, and it has been your comments -- both in quality and quantity -- that has affirmed when I have said something right. (Or let me know when I've done something wrong, as is far too often the case.) And while I have always written to please myself, I have always held two criteria before I publish: 1) is this something I find interesting? and 2) can I make it interesting to the readers? I haven't always succeeded, but it's been your constant responses that have helped me improve that over the years.

I have made some wonderful friends through the years here at Wizbang. I know I run the risk of slighting some, but here are just a few of the bloggers I have had the distinct pleasure of knowing and dealing with:

Meryl Yourish
Laurence Simon

Rob Port

Will Franklin

Scott and Ellen

Jay and Deb

Giacomo

Bruce

Suzy Rice

Professor Chaos

And retired bloggers LT SMASH and Jeff Harrell.

Also, I don't intend to make a clean break of things. I am leaving as an author, but intend to pop by every now and then and leave comments as the spirit moves me. Hell, maybe I'll see if I can reclaim my earlier title as king of the captions. Probably not, as I'm both rusty as hell and the competition's a hell of a lot fiercer now, but it could be fun to try.

When I first started blogging, I was amazed at how naturally it came to me. It seemed that I had been waiting all my life for technology to catch up with me, to create the perfect venue for me to express my talents and conceal my limitations. I have a face for radio, a voice for print, and an attention span of a gnat. Only now can I express my thoughts in a written medium that allows for almost instantaneous feedback..

Moving on to Contentions is a hell of a big step, and it's a step up. But I wouldn't have gotten there without all you folks.

Mostly, especially, above all else, Kevin Aylward. Four years and nine months ago, he took a chance and entrusted his site to eight people while he took paternity leave -- one of whom was me. At the time, I wondered if I'd be able to come up with one or two articles a week. I shoulda known that once I got rolling, I'd never shut up. Thanks again, Kevin -- you gave me a break (well, truth to tell, several), and I will forever be grateful and remember who gave me my shot.

(And in case things don't work out, I'll be back with hat in hand.)

Thanks again, folks. It's been an absolutely incredible experience -- and I know it's only beginning.

J. G. Thayer

-30-

Comments (91)

Well, congratulations one y... (Below threshold)

1. Posted by lowmal | November 20, 2008 10:48 AM | Score: 4 (4 votes cast)

lowmal:

Well, congratulations one your move and "promotion"!

It is, however, very hard for me to be happy, for you are a main reason I've enjoyed this site for many years..

You've been an inspiration and a good read..

Take care of yourself.

Shawn

Posted on November 20, 2008 10:48

Well, you usually made Wizb... (Below threshold)

2. Posted by Falze | November 20, 2008 10:50 AM | Score: 3 (3 votes cast)

Falze:

Well, you usually made Wizbang interesting for me, personally, so I have to thank you for that. Good luck.

Posted on November 20, 2008 10:50

Sad to see you go Jay, cong... (Below threshold)

3. Posted by Chip | November 20, 2008 10:57 AM | Score: 3 (3 votes cast)

Chip:

Sad to see you go Jay, congratulations and good luck. Thanks for all the great work.

Posted on November 20, 2008 10:57

Congratulations Jay. You ar... (Below threshold)

4. Posted by Jeff Blogworthy | November 20, 2008 11:00 AM | Score: 3 (3 votes cast)

Jeff Blogworthy:

Congratulations Jay. You are by far the best blogger here, imho. Sounds like you can at least start collecting a payday for your efforts. Can't blame you for that. You will be missed.

Posted on November 20, 2008 11:00

Jay,You will be mi... (Below threshold)

5. Posted by Wordygirl | November 20, 2008 11:04 AM | Score: 4 (4 votes cast)

Wordygirl:

Jay,

You will be missed tremendously. With all due respect to your co-bloggers, your commentary was the reason Wizbang became a bookmark on my toolbar. Your thought often seemed to mirror my own, and in many cases you made me reconsider my positions on issues because of your oh-so-reasonable arguments.

Thankfully, I also have Contentions as a bookmark, so we're all good.

Posted on November 20, 2008 11:04

Congratulations, Jay. I'll... (Below threshold)

6. Posted by Frazetta_girl | November 20, 2008 11:11 AM | Score: 1 (1 votes cast)

Frazetta_girl

Congratulations, Jay. I'll miss your insight and wit. Best of luck to you.

Posted on November 20, 2008 11:11

Jay,Thanks for the... (Below threshold)

7. Posted by geo | November 20, 2008 11:12 AM | Score: 2 (2 votes cast)

geo

Thanks for the memories. Gratz to you.

Posted on November 20, 2008 11:12

Congratulations, thank you ... (Below threshold)

8. Posted by Houston | November 20, 2008 11:17 AM | Score: 2 (2 votes cast)

Houston:

Congratulations, thank you and God speed Jay.

I will sincerely miss you around here. No offense to the others here, you are without a doubt my favorite author and the main reason I became a regular reader.

I hope the future is always bright for you. You have a talent which needs to be shared with the world.

Posted on November 20, 2008 11:17

Our loss is Commentary's ga... (Below threshold)

9. Posted by DJ Drummond | November 20, 2008 11:18 AM | Score: 5 (7 votes cast)

DJ Drummond:

Our loss is Commentary's gain (especially Contentions), Jay. Congratulations on your well-deserved recognition.

So ... who gets the keys to the Troll-Crusher?

Posted on November 20, 2008 11:18

I'll miss reading your cont... (Below threshold)

10. Posted by Tammy | November 20, 2008 11:22 AM | Score: 0 (0 votes cast)

Tammy:

I'll miss reading your contributions here, but I'm so happy for you, Jay. Congratulations on your new endeavor and I wish you lots of success. Please do come back and visit us from time to time.

Posted on November 20, 2008 11:22

Congratultions and best wis... (Below threshold)

11. Posted by P. Bunyan | November 20, 2008 11:32 AM | Score: 0 (0 votes cast)

P. Bunyan:

Congratultions and best wishes Jay!

Posted on November 20, 2008 11:32

You did an admirable job. Y... (Below threshold)

12. Posted by OLDPUPPYMAX | November 20, 2008 11:37 AM | Score: 0 (0 votes cast)

OLDPUPPYMAX:

You did an admirable job. You'll be missed. Best of luck.

Posted on November 20, 2008 11:37

*sigh*Well, o.k... b... (Below threshold)

13. Posted by Son Of The Godfather | November 20, 2008 11:39 AM | Score: 2 (2 votes cast)

Son Of The Godfather:

*sigh*
Well, o.k... but the rubber duckie stays.

Best of luck, Jay.

Posted on November 20, 2008 11:39

Oh yeah, you cannot ... (Below threshold)

14. Posted by Clay | November 20, 2008 11:45 AM | Score: 0 (0 votes cast)

Clay:

Oh yeah, you cannot take the duck.

Best of luck to you, Jay. You will be sorely missed.

Posted on November 20, 2008 11:45

Jay, it has been a pleasure... (Below threshold)

15. Posted by Joanne | November 20, 2008 11:49 AM | Score: 0 (0 votes cast)

Joanne

Jay, it has been a pleasure reading your posts over the past several years. You will be missed. Wishing you the best of luck and much success in your new venture.

Posted on November 20, 2008 11:49

Jay,I've been read... (Below threshold)

16. Posted by Sheik Yur Bouty | November 20, 2008 11:51 AM | Score: 1 (1 votes cast)

Sheik Yur Bouty:

I've been reading Wizbang for (I think) a little bit longer than you've been an author here.

You may not have been the reason I came here, but you are certainly one of the big reasons I stuck around.

Congrats to you! You will be missed here. I will look you up over there.

-syb

Posted on November 20, 2008 11:51

I have gone through the pre... (Below threshold)

17. Posted by WildWillie | November 20, 2008 12:01 PM | Score: 3 (3 votes cast)

WildWillie:

I have gone through the presidential election with no problems emotionally.

I have gone and am going through the economical chaos now and handling it quite well.

JT informs me he is leaving Wizbang, and I am having a hard time accepting this.

JT, you are like an old friend I use only when I want to. I so look forward to your daily postings. As a commenter above already said, your thoughts are mostly in line with mine. I enjoy your humor, your pithiness, and even your patience for me and other commenters that I know must have tried your patience a time or two.

In all sincerity, I wish you the very best of luck in your new endeavour. Keep informing. You are very good at imparting your reasoning. ww

Posted on November 20, 2008 12:01

JT, Put more than a soupcon... (Below threshold)

18. Posted by bryanD | November 20, 2008 12:03 PM | Score: -8 (8 votes cast)

bryanD:

JT, Put more than a soupcon of Gravitas in your first Contentions submission. That way, when the editors find out about That Duck, you can blame it on back medication and that you are seeing an Taoist acupuncturist and life is so much clearer now.

Posted on November 20, 2008 12:03

Jay, congratulations, you d... (Below threshold)

19. Posted by D-Hoggs | November 20, 2008 12:06 PM | Score: 0 (0 votes cast)

D-Hoggs:

Jay, congratulations, you deserve it! Talk about bittersweet though. Your writings are without a doubt the reason I've come to Wizbang first thing every morning, and then all throughout the day, for the past 4+ years. You will be sorely missed! Thank you for all of your hard work.

Posted on November 20, 2008 12:06

Jay, your gift is being rec... (Below threshold)

20. Posted by Pretzel Logic | November 20, 2008 12:09 PM | Score: 0 (0 votes cast)

Pretzel Logic:

Jay, your gift is being recognized and I wish you well in your endeavors. We all will look forward to you in your new format.

Posted on November 20, 2008 12:09

Well, that puts a whole new... (Below threshold)

21. Posted by Gmac | November 20, 2008 12:26 PM | Score: 0 (0 votes cast)

Gmac:

Well, that puts a whole new spin on things around here now doesn't it...

Congratulations! You are one of the most reasoned writers across blogs that I read on a daily basis and you have seldom disappointed with your articles. I may not agree with them sometimes but I didn't come here to be in an echo chamber. I will miss seeing your post's.

Good luck with your new endeavors and don't be a stranger.

Posted on November 20, 2008 12:26

Good luck at the new digs, ... (Below threshold)

22. Posted by hyperbolist | November 20, 2008 12:35 PM | Score: 0 (2 votes cast)

hyperbolist:

Good luck at the new digs, Jay. You got me reading Wizbang more regularly than any other source of conservative information on the intertubez.

Go get yourself some of that intahnet money! :)

Posted on November 20, 2008 12:35

JT,congrats,good luck and G... (Below threshold)

23. Posted by 1903A3 | November 20, 2008 12:38 PM | Score: 1 (1 votes cast)

1903A3:

JT,congrats,good luck and God speed.reading you all this time has expanded my gray matter and for that I thank you!

Posted on November 20, 2008 12:38

Godspeepd Jay Tea...You've ... (Below threshold)

24. Posted by Adrienne | November 20, 2008 12:40 PM | Score: 1 (1 votes cast)

Adrienne:

Godspeepd Jay Tea...You've earned your place at Contentions...Guess we'll have to come over and visit you there...

Thanks for all your hard work...It's be our pleasure...

Posted on November 20, 2008 12:40

Damn Jay. I'm happy for yo... (Below threshold)

25. Posted by AJ | November 20, 2008 12:41 PM | Score: 1 (1 votes cast)

AJ:

Damn Jay. I'm happy for you, but will miss your writing. Wizbang won't be the same without you.

Posted on November 20, 2008 12:41

Well I suppose I'll have to... (Below threshold)

26. Posted by Parthenon | November 20, 2008 12:44 PM | Score: 0 (10 votes cast)

Parthenon:

Well I suppose I'll have to add contentions to the list and occasionally go snipe at you over there.

Posted on November 20, 2008 12:44

So long as you continue har... (Below threshold)

27. Posted by Parthenon | November 20, 2008 12:46 PM | Score: 1 (5 votes cast)

So long as you continue harassing OW, I have no complaints. :)

Posted on November 20, 2008 12:46

Wow, has it been that long?... (Below threshold)

28. Posted by jaymaster | November 20, 2008 12:52 PM | Score: 0 (0 votes cast)

jaymaster:

Wow, has it been that long? I remember when you wrote your first "real" post here.

You dropped out of the caption contests, and I actually started winning a few for a change!

Best wishes, and keep on keeping on, man!!!

Posted on November 20, 2008 12:52

Want to add my heartfelt co... (Below threshold)

29. Posted by DaveD | November 20, 2008 12:52 PM | Score: 0 (0 votes cast)

DaveD:

Want to add my heartfelt congratulations also. I will miss your morning posts here. I'll be putting your new digs on my links list.

As soon as I grokked where ... (Below threshold)

30. Posted by MichaelC | November 20, 2008 1:03 PM | Score: 2 (2 votes cast)

MichaelC:

As soon as I grokked where this posting was headed, the first thought that came to mind was, "Oh crap, there goes the neighborhood."

Wizbang has been my first and most lengthy stop on the internet each day (some days the only stop) since early '04 and your column is the reason. Wizbang may belong to Kevin, and be flavored by all the fantastic people who contribute their ideas and analysis herein, but for me, this place always smells like J.Tea. Your departure will produce a very noticeable......I was going to say hole but that's not it..... there's just going to be a sense of something not quite right around here for some time to come.

Thanks for all that I've learned from you, for all the entertainment, and too, for the moments of wise restraint interrupted by outbursts of pure ferocity when finally, like all of us have sometimes done, you lost patience with the "Invaders" who creep into our gathering place with bad intentions.

I will be reading your work at your new location but still, there's a sense of loss in my heart, as I've come to think of this blog as a sort of psychic home, a gathering of people whose wisdom and candor has always made me feel comfortable even when the joint was under attack.

God bless you in all your pursuits Jay. In this one, you have done brilliantly and acquitted yourself with honor.

Posted on November 20, 2008 13:03

I have to agree with many o... (Below threshold)

31. Posted by Abigail | November 20, 2008 1:18 PM | Score: 1 (1 votes cast)

Abigail:

I have to agree with many of the comments already here. You are the reason I read Wizbang. I will continue to read, of course, but you were the reason it became my "first blog of the day".

I am happy for you, but sad for myself.

Congratulations!

Posted on November 20, 2008 13:18

Congratulations! (and now ... (Below threshold)

32. Posted by Laura | November 20, 2008 1:28 PM | Score: 1 (1 votes cast)

Laura:

Congratulations! (and now I'm off to bookmark your new digs.)

Posted on November 20, 2008 13:28

Aww Jay! *sob* You can't le... (Below threshold)

33. Posted by LissaKay | November 20, 2008 1:44 PM | Score: 3 (3 votes cast)

LissaKay:

Aww Jay! *sob* You can't leave me! You're my second most favoritist writer on all the blogosphere! (Second only to my fiance! Right up there with Bill Whittle ... man, that's a tough call!) Anyway, I will admit that I fell just a little in love with you over the years and posts. It's been like you're in my head, writing all my thoughts and making sense when I am unable to do so myself.

I look forward to following you at your new digs, but I have to admit, it will lose a little something there ...

Posted on November 20, 2008 13:44

Jay, you know that we've ha... (Below threshold)

34. Posted by Paul Hooson | November 20, 2008 1:47 PM | Score: 4 (4 votes cast)

Paul Hooson:

Jay, you know that we've had some big differences on issues, but what the heck. I still respect you as a writer and good luck to you.

And I absolutely believe in one thing you once told me, that you're a better writer than I am. And your invitation well proves that fact.

The best of luck to you old friend. I've always had respect for you, even when I was having a little fun pulling your string just a little for laughs during a heated Email exchange we once had. But I never really got mad at you, as much as we might have disagreed on some issues that were close to my core set of values.

You're still a pretty good guy in my book even if we don't agree on very many things. You've never been my enemy by any means, but a very worthy writer who simply holds views different than mine. And I'm adult enough to respect that fact.

Good luck and God bless you.

Posted on November 20, 2008 13:47

We have our disagreements J... (Below threshold)

35. Posted by mantis | November 20, 2008 1:48 PM | Score: 4 (4 votes cast)

mantis:

We have our disagreements Jay, but you've always been an intelligent and interesting writer, and it has been your presence that has kept me coming back to antagonize for so long.

And with that, I think I'll follow you right out the door. Later, Wizbangers. May peace and prosperity find you all.

Posted on November 20, 2008 13:48

Thanks for all of the work... (Below threshold)

36. Posted by EL Rider | November 20, 2008 1:57 PM | Score: 0 (0 votes cast)

EL Rider:

Thanks for all of the work you have done, your insights often gave me another needed perspective. Go and Break the proverbial Leg.

Posted on November 20, 2008 13:57

Good luck with your new blo... (Below threshold)

37. Posted by Bob | November 20, 2008 1:59 PM | Score: 0 (0 votes cast)

Bob:

Good luck with your new blog job! I've enjoyed reading your posts and admit that you have consistently been my favorite Wizbang author. I'll miss your contributions but I believe every person has a right and duty to do what they believe is in their own interest so long as it does not infringe the rights of others. I might even drop in at your new site for a look around. All my best.

Posted on November 20, 2008 13:59

I've enjoyed your work, you... (Below threshold)

38. Posted by BlogDog | November 20, 2008 2:10 PM | Score: 0 (0 votes cast)

BlogDog:

I've enjoyed your work, your enthusiasm, your good humor and Mr. Duckie.
Best of luck in the new gig.

Posted on November 20, 2008 14:10

Congrats!!!!! We'll miss y... (Below threshold)

39. Posted by Jo | November 20, 2008 2:15 PM | Score: 0 (0 votes cast)

Jo:

Congrats!!!!! We'll miss you!

Posted on November 20, 2008 14:15

Best of luck, Jay... (Below threshold)

40. Posted by drjohn | November 20, 2008 2:26 PM | Score: 0 (0 votes cast)

drjohn:

Best of luck, Jay

Posted on November 20, 2008 14:26

Aw, f***, really?O... (Below threshold)

41. Posted by Peter F. | November 20, 2008 2:31 PM | Score: 0 (0 votes cast)

Peter F.:

Aw, f***, really?

OK, initial reaction aside, there's not a soul who isn't happy for you and your new and well-earned and well-deserved position, Jay Tea. But there's no getting around that we're all incredibly bummed, too. With all respect to the other authors, your commentary was THE reason why I started coming to Wizbang some 4 years ago now (I think that's been that long).

I'll miss your dry humor, and your conscientious, intelligent and articulate writing on myriad issues. (Secretly, I think some of us wish we had 1/8th the writing talent you do. Or maybe it's just me.)

Oh well, enough of the maudlin crappola. Cheers and many best wishes on your new writing endeavor and to keeping everyone else on their toes and thinking!

Posted on November 20, 2008 14:31

Goodbye and good luck Jay, ... (Below threshold)

42. Posted by Mike | November 20, 2008 2:35 PM | Score: 0 (0 votes cast)

Mike:

Goodbye and good luck Jay, and congratulations on making it to the top of the blogosphere. Most of us will never achieve that, so you are to be rightly commended.

Which leaves me thinking ... there will be an authorship spot open here now, won't there ...?

Posted on November 20, 2008 14:35

Thanks for all you've writt... (Below threshold)

43. Posted by JLawson | November 20, 2008 2:48 PM | Score: 0 (0 votes cast)

JLawson:

Thanks for all you've written, Jay - this place ain't gonna be the same without you!

Posted on November 20, 2008 14:48

I have enjoyed you for seve... (Below threshold)

44. Posted by sjh | November 20, 2008 3:04 PM | Score: 0 (0 votes cast)

sjh:

I have enjoyed you for several years, Jay. Good luck and best wishes.

Posted on November 20, 2008 15:04

It sure is good to... (Below threshold)

45. Posted by jim Rhoads aka vnjagvet | November 20, 2008 3:13 PM | Score: 0 (0 votes cast)

jim Rhoads aka vnjagvet:

It sure is good to see another articulate, common-sense blogger move on up. First Roger Simon goes Pajamas. Then Captain Ed heats up the air. Now J Tea contends as JG Thayer at Commentary.

I'm glad to have ever more confirmation that I have had good taste in blog sites to comment on. I will miss you here, but will bookmark you on Commentary.

Good luck and God Speed JT or JGT, whichever you prefer.

Posted on November 20, 2008 15:13

Congratulations, and best o... (Below threshold)

46. Posted by apb | November 20, 2008 3:16 PM | Score: 0 (0 votes cast)

apb:

Congratulations, and best of luck! Yer mad writin' skillz will sorely be missed here.

Posted on November 20, 2008 15:16

Jay, while I disagreed with... (Below threshold)

47. Posted by Brian | November 20, 2008 3:17 PM | Score: 2 (2 votes cast)

Brian:

Jay, while I disagreed with you a great deal, your writing was always thoughtful, and you always at least explained the (perceived) rationality on which your point of view was based. That made it more inviting and interesting to respond, and I dare say those have been rare traits among Wizbang authors. Good luck to you.

Posted on November 20, 2008 15:17

Congratulations, Jay. Every... (Below threshold)

48. Posted by brainy435 | November 20, 2008 3:20 PM | Score: 0 (0 votes cast)

brainy435:

Congratulations, Jay. Every ending is a new beginning.

Posted on November 20, 2008 15:20

Jay Tea, you have a gift. ... (Below threshold)

49. Posted by Tom Blogical | November 20, 2008 3:22 PM | Score: 0 (0 votes cast)

Tom Blogical

Jay Tea, you have a gift. Congratulations on your new assignment, you deserve it. I'm going to miss you and your articles, even if I never got the joke about The Duck. BTW, your real name is definitely a writer's name. You fulfilled your destiny in that regard.

I'll check you out at your new digs, although I'll be sad you're leaving here. Best wishes.

Posted on November 20, 2008 15:22

Wow, it's been five years a... (Below threshold)

50. Posted by Maggie Mama | November 20, 2008 3:22 PM | Score: 0 (0 votes cast)

Maggie Mama:

Wow, it's been five years already? Damn YOU are getting old!

You will be in good company over there, and I just know all the time you spent captioning has only served to sharpen your skills in competition. Your time here has broaden your horizons.

There is no doubt that you will rise to the challenges ahead.

I look forward to checking in on your efforts.

All the very best to you.

I forgot to mention in my e... (Below threshold)

51. Posted by MichaelC | November 20, 2008 3:23 PM | Score: 0 (0 votes cast)

I forgot to mention in my earlier post that it was of great interest to me to see you your actual name, though somewhat abbreviated still, at the end of your post.

And so Mr. Thayer, once again, Godspeed. Most of us will, I'm sure, continue to read your words wherever you might be posting them.

Posted on November 20, 2008 15:23

52. Posted by Maggie Mama | November 20, 2008 3:28 PM | Score: 0 (0 votes cast)

I forgot to mention in my earlier post ... that since I figure it's about 4 1/2 years I AM YOUNGER THAN YOU! ! !

Bwaaaaah.

Posted on November 20, 2008 15:28

/me salutes... (Below threshold)

53. Posted by Laurence Simon | November 20, 2008 3:31 PM | Score: 1 (1 votes cast)

Laurence Simon:

/me salutes

Posted on November 20, 2008 15:31

Jay,Your posts hav... (Below threshold)

54. Posted by RB | November 20, 2008 3:38 PM | Score: 1 (1 votes cast)

RB:

Your posts have been the primary reason for my constant refreshes of Wizbangs feeds.

Fortunately, Commentary's blog is also one of my regular RSS visits...look forward to reading you over there.

Posted on November 20, 2008 15:38

The thirty at the end is a ... (Below threshold)

55. Posted by DJFelix | November 20, 2008 3:46 PM | Score: 2 (2 votes cast)

DJFelix:

The thirty at the end is a very nice touch. I never knew what that was until about 15 years ago when my great grandfather died. When that happened, my great grandmother needed a copy of her birth certificate from Idaho. We sent a letter, and received a letter back that there was no "Margaret Kroll" born on that day, in that county. We sent more letters, made phone calls, even sent family to research, and never could find her birth certificate. Then she remembered something ... "They used to call me Thirty when I was little" We sent a letter asking for the birth certificate of "Thirty Kroll" and lo-and-behold, they sent it back.

Turns out, her father was a typesetter. She had eight brothers and sisters, and she was a "surprise" child. Old grandpa Kroll decided that was enough, and named her thirty, to signify the end.

When Thirty went to school, they asked her name. "Thirty," she replied. The teacher told her that was a number, not a name, and that she needed to ask her mommy what her real name was. "Tell them it's Margaret." and she was known as Margaret ever since. Margaret is on her marriage certificate, which is how she got a social security card, and a driver's license. It wasn't until she was in her 80's that we learned her real name.

I will miss reading your stories here Jay. You were my favorite, and the single writer that kept me reading Wizbang! blog. I am very sad to see you go.

Posted on November 20, 2008 15:46

I'm going to miss having my... (Below threshold)

56. Posted by scmommy | November 20, 2008 4:13 PM | Score: 1 (1 votes cast)

scmommy:

I'm going to miss having my morning coffee while reading your observations! Congrats and Good Luck!

Posted on November 20, 2008 16:13

Jay, I... (Below threshold)

57. Posted by Stephen Hugli | November 20, 2008 4:19 PM | Score: 1 (1 votes cast)

Stephen Hugli:

I remember finding Wizbang several years ago and enjoyed about every article you published. While I am sad to see you go, I am glad that you got a BUMP up in the proverbial Blogging world. So, my hat is off to you Jay and best of luck in all your future endeavors.

A Satisfied Wizbang Reader,

Stephen Hugli

Posted on November 20, 2008 16:19

Nice to meet you Mr. Thayer... (Below threshold)

58. Posted by Stephen Macklin | November 20, 2008 4:27 PM | Score: 1 (1 votes cast)

Stephen Macklin:

Nice to meet you Mr. Thayer. It has been a pleasure reading your work here.

Congratulations on the move.

I guess my list of bookmarks is going to have to get one more entry.

Posted on November 20, 2008 16:27

Oh, noooooo! I have really... (Below threshold)

59. Posted by kevino | November 20, 2008 5:04 PM | Score: 1 (1 votes cast)

kevino:

Oh, noooooo! I have really enjoyed your writing over the years. WizBang won't be the same without you. Congratulations on your new gig. You deserve it: you've been writing great stuff for a long time. Good luck, and take care.

Posted on November 20, 2008 17:04

Between the economy, McCain... (Below threshold)

60. Posted by Eric | November 20, 2008 5:09 PM | Score: 4 (6 votes cast)

Eric:

Between the economy, McCain losing/Obama winning and now this, I can't decide which is more depressing. On the one hand I wish you the best of luck Mr. Thayer. But I am going to miss Jay Tea here at Wizbang.

It's time that your outstanding writing got some deserved attention. Down the line when you've gotten your Pulitzer Prize, we'll all be able to say we knew that guy when he was just Jay Tea.

P.S. Don't let Lee Ward try to take credit for banning you.

Posted on November 20, 2008 17:09

Though a newer regular read... (Below threshold)

61. Posted by Dos | November 20, 2008 5:16 PM | Score: 0 (0 votes cast)

Dos:

Though a newer regular reader... I will be missing you but wanted to give you a hearty Congratulations and best wishes in your new endeavor.

I have enjoyed Wizbang and your articles very much.

Posted on November 20, 2008 17:16

Jay,Congratulation... (Below threshold)

62. Posted by Kenny | November 20, 2008 5:28 PM | Score: 1 (1 votes cast)

Kenny:

Congratulations and best wishes!

Posted on November 20, 2008 17:28

JT,Best wishes, you ... (Below threshold)

63. Posted by Yogurt | November 20, 2008 6:29 PM | Score: 1 (1 votes cast)

Yogurt:

JT,
Best wishes, you will be missed here..

Posted on November 20, 2008 18:29

You deserve to spread your ... (Below threshold)

64. Posted by Les Nessman | November 20, 2008 6:40 PM | Score: 1 (1 votes cast)

Les Nessman:

You deserve to spread your wings and try something new even though we'll miss you here.
Best of luck and thanks for all your work over the years.

Posted on November 20, 2008 18:40

Congratulations. Good luck... (Below threshold)

65. Posted by Timmer | November 20, 2008 6:52 PM | Score: 1 (1 votes cast)

Timmer:

Congratulations. Good luck and good fortune. You will be sorely missed.

Posted on November 20, 2008 18:52

Good for you, Jay. It's ab... (Below threshold)

66. Posted by Oyster | November 20, 2008 6:56 PM | Score: 3 (3 votes cast)

Oyster:

Good for you, Jay. It's about time someone other than us peons recognized your talent. With the new job, I haven't even been able to check in on Wizbang as much as I'd like, but I'll be checking in on you as often as possible at your new digs.

Thanx for your always thoughtful and honest commentary. You been a bright light at times, shining on common sense and reason.

Posted on November 20, 2008 18:56

I think maybe once (maybe n... (Below threshold)

67. Posted by JFO | November 20, 2008 6:57 PM | Score: 2 (2 votes cast)

JFO:

I think maybe once (maybe not, the more I think about it) I've agreed with your position on an issue. But I've always admired your writing skills. I wish you well Jay Tea and I hope you write a novel some day about a naval ship. I might even pay money for it - nah what am I thinking?

Posted on November 20, 2008 18:57

Bye Jim... (Below threshold)

68. Posted by rodney dill | November 20, 2008 7:50 PM | Score: 1 (1 votes cast)

rodney dill:

Bye Jim

Posted on November 20, 2008 19:50

Of course I have to concur ... (Below threshold)

69. Posted by Candy | November 20, 2008 7:55 PM | Score: 1 (1 votes cast)

Candy:

Of course I have to concur with everyone above - thanks for the memories! I knew you long before Wizbang and I'll know you long after - looking forward to "visiting" you in your new home - and in honor of your new position, I will not subject you to peas on Thanksgiving! Bring the duck - I think he needs a good spin in the washing machine.

Posted on November 20, 2008 19:55

Congratulations Jay. Good ... (Below threshold)

70. Posted by Tim B. | November 20, 2008 7:56 PM | Score: 1 (1 votes cast)

Tim B.:

Congratulations Jay. Good luck and hope you prosper with your new opportunity.

Tim B.

Posted on November 20, 2008 19:56

I'm one of the new guys. I'... (Below threshold)

71. Posted by Tom | November 20, 2008 8:17 PM | Score: 1 (1 votes cast)

Tom:

I'm one of the new guys. I've only been following Whizbang and you since June. I've especially enjoyed your work, and in fact you are the main draw as far as I'm concerned.

Rest assured every subject you have addressed you have made interesting - at least for me.

Good luck. I'll miss you here. But I'll catch you over there.

Posted on November 20, 2008 20:17

I have enjoyed your work fo... (Below threshold)

72. Posted by Aubrey | November 20, 2008 8:18 PM | Score: 1 (1 votes cast)

Aubrey:

I have enjoyed your work for several years. Congratulations and best of luck.

Posted on November 20, 2008 20:18

Great publication and great... (Below threshold)

73. Posted by Mitchell | November 20, 2008 8:21 PM | Score: 1 (1 votes cast)

Mitchell:

Great publication and great opportunity, Jay.

All the best to you.

Posted on November 20, 2008 20:21

Good luck /SALUTE<... (Below threshold)

74. Posted by retired military | November 20, 2008 8:26 PM | Score: 1 (1 votes cast)

retired military:

Good luck

/SALUTE

Posted on November 20, 2008 20:26

Adding to the congrats, Jay... (Below threshold)

75. Posted by Wanderlust | November 20, 2008 8:45 PM | Score: 1 (1 votes cast)

Wanderlust:

Adding to the congrats, Jay. I quietly noted your financial struggles over the years you posted here (having endured my own share of those) and hoped that your work on this blog would allow you new career options at some point.

Well done, even if you did once skewer a post I made by comparing it to the "profit" line from Southpark :)

-Wanderlust

Posted on November 20, 2008 20:45

JayHall Pass denie... (Below threshold)

76. Posted by HughS | November 20, 2008 8:59 PM | Score: 2 (4 votes cast)

HughS:

Jay

Hall Pass denied.

You can't do this. Can you?

Please tell Podhoretz that Commentary was the last print pub I cancelled and that only one remains...WSJ.

Oh well, I'll grudgingly bookmark you next to Rubin for the morning update.

Seriously, congratulations for your move to Commentary, and many thanks for the hard work and wisdom you have contributed here at Wizbang.

One of the things I've learned from reading your many posts here at Wizbang is this: everyone has an opinion, but even the most well thought out opinions require an editor. Rare is the opinionist that can write well consistently and be their own editor. You have done that, Jay.

Posted on November 20, 2008 20:59

Good luck! I've always loo... (Below threshold)

77. Posted by Daniel | November 20, 2008 9:08 PM | Score: 1 (1 votes cast)

Daniel:

Good luck! I've always looked forward to your posts, so hopefully I'll be able to keep up with your writing in the future.

Posted on November 20, 2008 21:08

78. Posted by Greg | November 20, 2008 9:41 PM | Score: 1 (1 votes cast)

Greg:

Congratulations and good luck to you. I have really enjoyed your posts over the last few years.

Posted on November 20, 2008 21:41

HOLY CRAP!!! Congrats Jay, ... (Below threshold)

79. Posted by Knightbrigade | November 20, 2008 10:42 PM | Score: 1 (1 votes cast)

Knightbrigade:

HOLY CRAP!!! Congrats Jay, we agree on an amazing number of things. It was always fun to watch you communicate those positions in the most interesting and entertaining fashion.

So now with the great crew of writers here on the "normal" side of Wizbang things will go on, but you will be missed. I'll check you out at the new diggs.

Take care my man, take care.

As for the current crew of Wizbang writers, will it be a cage match for the troll hammer OR bathing suit contest?!!

Posted on November 20, 2008 22:42

JayTea, While I ... (Below threshold)

80. Posted by Duncan | November 20, 2008 10:49 PM | Score: 1 (1 votes cast)

Duncan:

JayTea,

While I rarely commented, I thoroughly enjoyed many, if not all, of your posts, and you were one of the writers here that routinely had me coming back for more. While I am sad to see you leave, good luck and Godspeed in your future endeavors.

Posted on November 20, 2008 22:49

We will certainly miss you!... (Below threshold)

81. Posted by Bill M | November 21, 2008 2:00 AM | Score: 1 (1 votes cast)

Bill M:

We will certainly miss you!!

Posted on November 21, 2008 02:00

Rock on, JayTea! I will def... (Below threshold)

82. Posted by John Irving | November 21, 2008 2:53 AM | Score: 1 (1 votes cast)

John Irving:

Rock on, JayTea! I will definitely be reading your new material at your new digs.

Posted on November 21, 2008 02:53

Congratulations, Jay. I loo... (Below threshold)

83. Posted by jdgjtr | November 21, 2008 3:40 AM | Score: 1 (1 votes cast)

jdgjtr:

Congratulations, Jay. I looked forward to reading you in Wizbang, along with Paul and Kevin when I first hooked up on the internet (and this blogging thing). You richly deserve your promotion. Will this let you have more time for your USS Manchester novel?

Posted on November 21, 2008 03:40

Hey, "Jay Tea," the feeling... (Below threshold)

84. Posted by -S- | November 21, 2008 7:59 AM | Score: 1 (1 votes cast)

-S-:

Hey, "Jay Tea," the feelings are mutual. As also about Kevin.

I have just imported the BIRD (my blog) contents to WordPress so I have to now sort out all the links and settings and then redesign the site, so I can't approve the Trackback you sent to the previous URL for BIRD (published previously using MovableType -- the file extensions have now changed with the publishing platform change).

The great thing today is that none of us is out of touch unless we want to be, what with the internet so saturated with opportunities for contact. I hope you'll register and comment sometime at BIRD (give me just a few more days to sort things out) (I'll be offering User Registration there now, starting next week) and I wish you immense success at your new position with "Contentions" - they are very fortunate to now have you.

Posted on November 21, 2008 07:59

Congratulations, Jay Tea, b... (Below threshold)

85. Posted by sarahconnor2 | November 21, 2008 8:36 AM | Score: 0 (0 votes cast)

sarahconnor2:

Congratulations, Jay Tea, but...sniff...

Posted on November 21, 2008 08:36

Best regards, Jay Tea. I kn... (Below threshold)

86. Posted by bobdog | November 21, 2008 11:56 AM | Score: 0 (0 votes cast)

bobdog:

Best regards, Jay Tea. I know you'll do well.

Posted on November 21, 2008 11:56

Awww man....Grats ... (Below threshold)