Thanks for the kind words, everyone. Hard to believe it's been 17 years since I first joined the site. It was just in time for the 2008 primary season, the first of which I could vote in. And that was truly a remarkable time to be following politics. As much of a whirlwind as 2024 has been, it really seemed like every day in 2008 was something consequential. At the time, we had a different set of active users, most of whom have not returned, and I learned a lot from them. I hope they're all doing okay. For the old heads like Ralphie, RP, IndyGeorgia, Chronicler, RBH, Mr. Politics, CAPolJunkie and others, good to see you're still around. For those who joined in more recent years, thank you for your perspectives and contributions. The degree to which I follow politics has fluctuated over the years. I haven't always been happy with my own political party and considered changing to independent between 2014 and 2015. But over the last few years I would say my interest and enthusiasm has renewed. Perhaps I've also just mellowed out over the years. Since joining the site I've graduated college, reconciled with estranged family, gotten married, and bought a home. While voting is important to me and democracy will always be a hill I die on, I've learned not to get worked up over small stuff the way I did in my youth.

Happy birthday. I wish you the great year filled with happiness and joy.