So Long, and Thanks for All the (Swedish) Fish

[Skinner]

A few weeks ago I sold Democratic Underground. The new owner is EarlG (also known as Dave Allsopp), a long-time DU Administrator and co-founder who has been a part of this community since the very beginning. He knows DU as well as I do -- probably better. He is a decent, loyal, trustworthy human being, and he is a great friend to me. If you take away one thing from this announcement, it is this:

Democratic Underground will be fine.

But I hope you understand that for EarlG, purchasing this website was not without risk. He had to take on a fairly significant amount of debt while we are in the middle of a global pandemic *and* an economic downturn. In my final act as a DU administrator, I have been working to organize a summer DU fund drive to smooth the transition to new ownership and help ease some of the financial burden. When the fund drive begins next week, I hope you will become a DU Star Member and GIVE GENEROUSLY.

I’ve been agonizing over what else to say to all of you about this. Moving on from DU is kind of a huge deal in my life -- after all, I’ve spent nearly two decades running this website -- and I feel like I am supposed to be passing along some nugget of wisdom to all of you that lives up to the enormity of this moment for me. There are so many things I could say, but after much consideration I’m just going to say this:

Thank you.

I am so grateful to everyone who has been a part of this community over the last 19 and a half years. What a wonderful, happy, friendly, stimulating, sometimes aggravating, and most of all rewarding journey this has been. I still can’t quite wrap my head around the idea that I created a virtual space where thousands of truly decent human beings would choose to spend so much of their time. It seems unreal. This is first and foremost a community of people, and the truth is that Democratic Underground would be nothing without all of you.

During the darkest days of the 2016 Democratic presidential primaries, when many DUers were viciously tearing each other apart, the three DU admins were deeply frustrated with the state of this community. So we put our heads together to figure out a positive vision of what we wanted DU to be. During that process we drew a Venn diagram on the whiteboard in our office, and it remained on the whiteboard for the last four years to remind us what we wanted this community to be. Here is a picture:



Looking back over the last 19+ years of running this website, I think I am most proud of the fact that this is what DU has become: A community of friendly, progressive Democrats.

Thank you especially to Dave and Brian (whom you know as EarlG and Elad) my fellow DU Administrators. I could not have done this job without your friendship, expertise, support, and hard work. Dave, I am particularly grateful for your wise counsel over all these years. You have provided indispensable guidance and support that made me a better admin and made DU a better community. Brian, I am in awe of your technical knowledge and skill, as well as your patience and dedication. We came up with a million crazy ideas that required countless hours of programming, and you always knew how to make those ideas a reality.

To the rest of you, I want to keep in touch. Here’s how:

I’m not going to be here on DU nearly as much now that I don’t work here, but I am dipping my toe into various social media sites and I want to keep in touch with all of you. To keep things easy I grabbed a single username that I could use across many different sites: @DavidAllenNow. *Everyone* is welcome to connect with me, whether you are a long-term DU members, a new DU member, a lurker who never signed up for DU, a former DU member, a former Discussionist member, or even a banned or flagged DUer.

If you connect with me I promise I’ll follow you back...

Twitter: DavidAllenNow

Instagram: DavidAllenNow

Facebook: DavidAllenNow

LinkedIn: DavidAllenNow

TikTok: DavidAllenNow

YouTube: UCXWXuF-V07yxQRY7v7XFZoQ

And you can also contact me by email: davidallennow (at) gmail.com

Once again, thank you for everything. I am forever grateful.



David Allen
AKA Skinner
Semi-former DU Administrator

ON EDIT: EarlG has posted a follow-up thread you should read.

[irisblue]

1. So...tell me how to send my next donation

[AllaN01Bear]

2. thanks for keeping me insane during this time of crisis .

if i were to go sane, heaven help us .

[Doc_Technical]

362. Well said, AllaN01Bear!

I've heard that sanity isn't all it's cracked up to be.

[Demovictory9]

3. wow. Bye .. thanks for co founding the community of DU

[mahatmakanejeeves]

4. So Long It's Been Good to Know You.

Woody Guthrie - So long it's been good to know you
715,054 views•Apr 10, 2007

Alberto Al
952 subscribers

A song from the Library of Congress recordings

[lpbk2713]

5. You should be proud of your work.

You have good reason to be.

Thanks for everything.

[George II]

6. Not to suck up, but I've found him to be the most engaged and responsive Administrator on DU.

[CurtEastPoint]

7. THANK YOU and the best to you!

[ProfessorGAC]

8. Arrivederci!

And buona fortuna, amico mi!

[Bengus81]

9. WOW...best of luck, this will still be a great website!!

[Demovictory9]

10. congrats EarlG on your new business

[jpak]

11. We'll miss you!

[Aristus]

12. Thank you for everything, Skinner.

DU means more to me than you can ever know. It has kept me sane for nearly two decades.

I often feel horror at what America has ugly-morphed into, but at least, I know I'm not alone in my horror.

All the best...

[Mr.Bill]

13. Do you still own Discussionist?

Or was that part of the sale?

[Mr.Bill]

119. When I googled Discussionist.com

then clicked on it, a BLM website comes up. Righteous.

[Iggo]

145. My biggest smile of the day, along with a slow rolling laugh that came from way deep.

[Arkansas Granny]

14. Thanks, and don't forget to take your towel.

[denbot]

286. .

[snowybirdie]

15. Thank you

So many of us need this outlet. You did good!

[Lars39]

16. Thank you for all that you have done to keep DU an oasis,

especially for us in red state hells. Best wishes for the future.

[onethatcares]

17. Thank You

DU has been my home while at home and while away for what seems like forever. You rock (along with your fellow administrators).

Who would have ever thought this place would have been so GREAT>

THANK YOU MORE THAN WORDS CAN SAY. wow: :

[sazemisery]

18. Thanks for everything, Skinner n/t

[Volaris]

19. Thank you for the effort over the years, Skinner. You will be missed.

'Live long, and PROSPER.'

Peace!

[Demsrule86]

20. Thank you Skinner...we will miss you.

[Kid Berwyn]

21. Good luck! And thank you!

Your team’s hard work has created a real community.

Please keep up the good works, wherever you are.

[chowder66]

22. Thank you so much for your vision and hard work.

I hope you are fulfilled in your next endeavor.

[cayugafalls]

23. Thank you for everything you have done.

I sincerely appreciate the hard work and dedication you put into DU.

Congratulations on your new liberation.

[cry baby]

24. Take care and thanks! nt

[Buckeye_Democrat]

25. Thank you for DU!

It's like an island of sanity in the modern internet world!

[UrbScotty]

26. Thanks for everything!

Glad I've been part of the journey for most of those 19+ years. Here's to many more years!

[TlalocW]

27. Uh, what if someone else wanted to buy DU?

I was never asked. Jerk.

Just kidding. Thanks for everything you've done for us. We promise to take it easy on EarlG.

TlalocW

[smirkymonkey]

28. Thanks for everything Skinner!

I wish you well in your future endeavors! Best of luck to you!

[CaptainTruth]

29. THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR ALL YOU'VE DONE!!!

DU is my go-to site for news & info. I'd be lost without it.

[TheBlackAdder]

30. Best wishes Skinner. We're in good hands.

[CaptYossarian]

31. Thank you for creating the best site on the interwebs.

Good luck, good health, and keep fighting the good fight.

Congratulations to EarlG. (Sounds like a tea drinker.)

[lunatica]

32. Hugs to you David Allen Skinner!

I love you!

[edhopper]

33. RESPECT

[MFM008]

34. Thanks

👍🏻👋💙🤝

[vercetti2021]

35. Rest easy Space Cowboy

[Pantagruel]

141. Looking closely

at Slim Pickens ( I believe), notice he seems to be wearing a parachute while riding a nuke.
Odd?

[Pantagruel]

143. And Oh Yeah

Thanks big guy.

[redstatebluegirl]

36. Wow, good luck to you! DU has been my savior the past few years!

[Pepsidog]

37. Thank you for all you have done for us. You should feel very proud. Good luck!!

[DinahMoeHum]

38. Thanks for everything. Enjoy your "retirement"

[ProudMNDemocrat]

39. Good luck, Skinner

And thank you

Happy to be giving my $15 a month. This is a good home to be a part of. May not seem like much, but it adds up.

[IcyPeas]

40. "Democratic Underground Will Be Fine" ---- WHEW!!!

All the best to you Skinner.

Thank you for your years here.

[DownriverDem]

41. Love the Venn Diagram

I have been a proud member of the Democratic Party for most of my life. I have views that are considered progressive too which really overlap with the blue circle above. I view us all as one leaning left folks who seriously want to beat trump & elect more Dems. Being here has been a big help to survive trump. Best of luck with your new adventure. Carry on!

[BadGimp]

42. Thank You Skinner! - Welcome EarlG!!

[Oppaloopa]

43. Thank you

[amuse bouche]

44. I remember the road trips. Good Times

[diane in sf]

45. Thank you for all the years and work. I can't begin to tell you much DU means to me.

[MurrayDelph]

46. Goodbye

and thanks.

[bluescribbler]

47. Fair winds and following seas

Thank you for all your hard work giving us this community. I discovered DU soon after "W" was selected by Scotus, and keep coming back.

[JGug1]

48. Backing Away

Always scary when an changes happen. However, I did exactly the same thing you are doing in 2018, except that I continued on as an associate. It just gives me too much joy practicing small animal medicine. What are YOU going to do?

[Skinner]

133. Not sure exactly.

I would really like to do something artistic. Maybe write and illustrate a book?

[Karadeniz]

49. I don't really know how DU works, but I rely on it for so much...thank you for all you've

Given to us!❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

[octoberlib]

50. It's the end of an era. Thank you for creating this site. I haven't been here as long as a lot of

members but for eight years I've checked in almost every single day. Again , thank you .

[aikoaiko]

51. I always thought of you and Earl as a well balanced team

Not that you two were on polar ends, but rather balanced in where you didn't overlap.

I worry about DU without you, but look forward to happy future. DU has evolved a lot over the years.

I have appreciated you, Earl, and Elad very much.

May good fortunes continue to come your way.

[a kennedy]

52. Double wow, and thank you for DU. I am a member AND will continue to

contribute to this, my favorite site. Only place that has kept me sane through the Bush/Gore shit storm up until the current shit show. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

[pandr32]

53. Thank you!

You've given us a refuge and a hub of invaluable connections.
We are stronger together!

[A Brand New World]

54. Thank you for your many years of service to keep fellow

Democrats sane. I’ve been a member since practically the beginning. DU is the 1st place I check daily for news. I don’t post much, mostly read, but DU has been and will continue to be an important part of my life. Again, thank you and best wishes for your future!

[Mike 03]

55. Thank you for everything you've created and given.

And good luck with everything you've got going.

I'm sincerely and truly grateful to you for everything you've done here.

[tishaLA]

56. Thank you for everything you've done for all these years

You've helped keep me informed, helped me cope through two terrible administrations, and provided a place where I can laugh, vent, and sometimes disagree with other progressives.

[BumRushDaShow]

57. Wow.

You will be sorely missed as "boss".

I guess now Sid will really be you!

[democrank]

58. Thank you, Skinner

from the bottom of my heart.

[Karma13612]

59. Thanks so much for pursuing your vision

So we could all benefit!

Good luck to you and stay healthy!

[BootinUp]

60. K&R thank you

For making DU a reality. Been a great site and I’m sure it will continue.

[CloudWatcher]

61. Thanks! DU has made a difference.

DU's impact has been substantial. Thank you.

[budkin]

62. DU has been a godsend for me since I joined in 2004 during the Kerry campaign. Thank you!

Seriously, I can't thank you enough! You rule Skinner and I will follow you via the links you provided.

[seta1950]

63. Thank you

From the bottom of my heart,I have been a member from the very beginning, I love D.U. it’s a haven for me from all the craziness in the world. Good luck with your new ventures.

[NRaleighLiberal]

64. WOW! and thanks. and best of luck!!!

[PunkinPi]

65. Live shot of Skinner right now...

In all seriousness, thank you for everything over the years, Skinner. Best of luck in all your future endeavors, you will be missed.

[tanyev]

224. That's perfect!

Best wishes to Skinner and my thanks for creating DU.

[marked50]

66. Kudos to you

[SallyHemmings]

67. Thank you!

Cheers!

[ploppy]

68. Thank you

for making us a political home! Best wishes on your journey!

[EllieBC]

69. I read for years and years and years before I joined.

Thank you for what you created and nurtured here.

[Generic Other]

70. So Long, Skinner!!!

Happy Trails to You
Until We Meet Again!

You have been a lifeline for me through the 21st century. You will be ,issed.

Thanks to you for everything you have done over the years, and especially for placing the reins in EarlG's hands.

[LiberalFighter]

71. Hope we still hear from you.

[mokawanis]

72. Thank you for all you've done

You created a space where we could all talk and argue and get information. I very much appreciate your work and effort that went into that.

[hlthe2b]

73. I hardly know what to say. I saw you and your sign Inauguration Day, 2001

and have followed DU ever since.

Boy, I feel old.

For some reason, this old John Denver song popped into my mind upon reading you were leaving DU, so on behalf of all of us who sometimes gave you headaches or a hard time, "I'm Sorry," but as in the song lyrics, (paraphrased): "more than anything else I'm sorry because you'll not be here with us."

I wish you the best, David Allen (Skinner)

[Vinca]

74. Thanks for many good years. You're leaving EarlG in good hands . . . I think.

Best of luck!

[CentralMass]

75. Thank you for the great site and best of luck to you on your future endeavors.

[Sedona]

76. Just WOW!

Farewell Skinner, don't know what I've have done without DU these last almost 20 years!

You'll be missed!

[sheshe2]

77. Thank you 😊 for giving us DU.

I know you are leaving us in good hands.

Good luck, Skinner.

[safeinOhio]

78. Best of luck to you and your family.

I love DU.

[IllinoisBirdWatcher]

79. Thank you, Skinner. It has been a great ride.

And best wishes to Dave for the continuation and expansion of this community.

[MFGsunny]

80. Steady. Scintillating. Smart. Seeker. Stimulating. AND even Sparkly Skinner.

May the road always rise up to meet you ...

Deepest gratitude for almost 20 years (reading, posting, losing my handle, rejoining, enjoying) - especially when all the chips seemed down - there always was (and still is) DU ..... kinda like KUNG FU DU.

[backtoblue]

81. Thank you.

This site has been a life safer in so many ways for me.

I'm not on any other internet platform, so I do hope you will come and tell how you are doing from time to time.

I'm truly grateful for your DU creation.

Farewell, Dear Skinner

[Hortensis]

82. Okay. As long as you're still around I won't be too sad.

Thanks for making sure DU continues for all of us.

[Hortensis]

83. Okay. As long as you're still around I won't be too sad.

Just "followed" your new Twitter account. Thanks for making sure DU continues for all of us.

[CaliforniaPeggy]

84. Thank you for everything you've done for DU and for us, my dear Skinner...

I have distinctly enjoyed your leadership all these years. I am so sorry to see you go, but I understand.

I am now following you on Twitter and have sent you a friend request on Facebook. Who knows? I may have more contact with you now that you're no longer here!

It has been an amazing ride, and one that has changed my life. I have new hobbies now, because of the friends I've made here, and those new hobbies have rippled outwards to affect me in ways I had never seen.

Photography and poetry and politics!

Thank you.

I wish you all success in your new endeavors. May your path be smooth and easy. Oh, as if!

[malaise]

85. Oh My Goodness

Thanks for everything Skinner

[Solly Mack]

86. Well, damn.

The Thanks is to you, though. The three of you guys.

Thank you all for DU.

Goodness. It has been nearly two decades. I'm getting old. Thanks for the reminder.

Solly

[Clash City Rocker]

87. Thanks so much for DU

I lurked here for years before I signed up. Not sure why. Reading DU has been a pretty important part of my day for some time.

[Tom Rinaldo]

88. I've been here 17 years now, and I am still amazed by how well DU has been piloted...

...through repeated turbulent times. I may not have always agreed 100% with each and every call you made, but after the benefit of a few minutes hindsight, I could say the same about all of the calls I have made during those times also. Actually, with a few more seconds of hindsight now, I'm sure your track record has been better than mine.

Good luck with all that you do. I will look forward to your visits here.

[Cracklin Charlie]

89. You agonized over us?

Awww.

Spread your wings and fly, Sir!
Thanks for DU!

[cilla4progress]

90. Congrats!

All the best! Been here since 2004 and it is definitely my go to.

I'll find you on Twitter. Feeling optimistic about DU's future.

THANK YOU!

[Hav]

91. Thank you

DU was a needed retreat during the Bush years. This function became even more obvious after the 2016 election and the hack when one couldn't connect to the like-minded people here anymore. Losing that during one of the darkest times makes you realize how important it is.

[c-rational]

92. Thank you Skinner and best of luck. My wife was one of the originals and DU has helped keep us

both sane. Welcome Earl G. May your tenure be as long and as fruitful. Long Live DU!

[boston bean]

93. My best to you Skinner.

Have not always agreed, but most times have and lots of respect for you.

Feeling like a little bit of and end of an era and more than a tad nostalgic already. .

Hope you have a lifetime full of love and happiness.

Take care

[Nitram]

94. Thank YOU, Dave. We are forever indebted to you for what you created and sustained here.

Creating a safe but vital space for Democrats to exchange ideas and information was an invaluable contribution to online communication.

[mzmolly]

95. Thank you so much

Skinner.

I've no idea what I would have done without DU over these past two decades.



Best of luck to you in your new adventures.

[jcboon]

96. Thanks so much for everything. This place saved my life!

[livetohike]

97. Thank you for everything Skinner. When I joined DU in March

2004, it was the best community of like minded souls, welcoming, instructive and amazing. It still is. You will be missed and I wish you the best in your future endeavors.

[oasis]

98. I've enjoyed immensely my longtime relationship w/DU. Thank you

and I wish you much success in all your future endeavors.

[Laelth]

99. I wish you well on your future endeavors.

It has been an honor to share this virtual environment with you. Thank you for DU!

You made the world a better place.



-Laelth

[Miigwech]

100. You have made my world and the greater world a better place, thank you!

[marble falls]

101. Jeepers. I kinda like things the way they are!

[kacekwl]

102. I really got engaged in politics around the 2008 election season during a rough patch in life.

I was enraged with Bush/Chenny after 9/11 the Iraq and Afghanistan. I was so excited to think Obama could be President and things as a whole could be better. I got tired of yelling at the TV and all the misinformation to say the least. Then I found DU and finally a place to get information, opinions from like minded people. The info, links provided and sources to find the truth in most cases was a godsend and have been here ever since. A sincere thank you and all involved for giving a place to go and to occasionally spout my thoughts. Best of luck to you you and to all involved.

[Kali]

103. Wow

Last edited Fri Sep 25, 2020, 07:58 PM - Edit history (1)

will edit with more thoughts after digesting and reading replies


-----------------------------------

finally editing now, probably no one will see it but I guess everything is ok. this announcement was a real shock - 2020 has been an unfun rollercoaster and this was another potential dip. but after some weeks it would seem DU is running fine, though I thought you might have checked in more with a post or two or some recs. a funny thing happened when I checked just now - clicked on the link and went to your FB page and there was Nadin, ranting away about something.

I don't know how those things work and I have been avoiding that place for most of the year so far, but to see that at the top of your feed...what can I say? it seemed kind of perfect in a way. like the dysfunctional family that this place often is.

I hope all is well, we never interacted all that much but I will always be grateful that you let MFM back in when he got tossed on a post misunderstanding and for doing the lounge thing when he died. thank you.

for the bigger picture, this site has been and continues to be one of the best discussion sites I have ever come across. thank you and the rest of the guys for starting and continuing it all these years. the changes have been good, even for this change-phobe and I look forward to seeing what is next.

Kali

[judesedit]

104. Bye, Skinner. Thanks for giving us all those years and creating

a place for like minded individuals to meet and support each other...mostly lol. You will be missed here. Best of luck and many blessings in whatever path you take. But, I have to ask one favor as you take leave. Please direct a little energy into helping us get rid of the squatter in the White House until this election is over. Please, please, please.

[Mike Nelson]

105. Thank You...

...Skinner (and EarlG). Best of luck in your new endeavors!

[Renew Deal]

106. Thanks Skinner

DU continues to be the best place to find political information quickly. The community aspect is also pretty good. I appreciate how hard you all worked to keep this place running.

Good luck to EarlG. I'm sure he'll do great.

[Bonhomme Richard]

107. I have been here from the beginning and ...

I thank you from the bottom of my heart for keeping me sane all these years. I don't post as much as I used to but I still follow every day.

[OKNancy]

108. Oh wow. I've been with you since 2001

I've been a mod, and on MIRT and a host. It was such an honor to work with you through some good times and a few bad.
You have been a rock. Good luck in all your future endeavors.

[mrsadm]

109. We will miss you so much!

You are part of the soul of DU. Good luck in your future!

[sprinkleeninow]

110. All the best always to you and yours. 💗🌠

[OregonBlue]

111. I'm sure EarlG will do a fabulous job but you will be missed. You have been a real rock for so many

of us during these trying, exhausting times. Good luck in all you do.

[ZenDem]

112. No...Thank YOU!

First, I was stuck in AZ surrounded by a sea of red.
Now, I'm in MO surrounded by a sea of red.

Through it all, whether I was active or just lurking, you and this place kept me sane.

I won't say I'll miss you, though I'm pretty well choked up and have a few tears in my eyes. You're not leaving us, just stepping away.

Love to you,

ZenDem (aka WaitWut)

P.S.
Gratz, EarlG!!! Are you bringing back META?!

[Soph0571]

113. All the very best on the other side!

Change is always interesting so don't go off your rocker!!

[tenderfoot]

114. Thank you Skinner

[alfredo]

115. Happy trails

[herding cats]

116. I wish you the best of luck in your future adventures!

I'll be honest, when I first saw the banner I thought it was the end of DU! I'm glad it isn't, and that it's in the competent hands of EarlG.

Thank you for doing all you've done over the years to make this site amazing. You'll be missed here.

Thanks for the Swedish fish one last time!

[klook]

117. Wow! What a great legacy you've left.

Thanks to you, EarlG, and Elad for creating this forum. Sorry to see you leave your post, but I wish you all the best.

Come on, you can tell us. I know you're really going to replace Jerry Falwell, Jr. at Liberty U.!


Originally posted in Sept. 2012 -

[NBachers]

118. My phone & in- box are filled with demands for money. I pledge 100 bucks for the fundraiser.

[Ford_Prefect]

120. Thanks Indeed for All The Fish!

Wind at your back and a long smooth ride ahead dude!

[Upthevibe]

121. Thank you for EVERYTHING

you've done. Congratulations to the new owner, EarlG.

[SiliconValley_Dem]

122. congrats! this has been a shelter in the storm

[NurseJackie]

123. ⚡⚡ I figured SOMETHING was up when you decided to suddenly close Discussionist!

At the time, I was guessing that it was only a matter of time before DU was also shut down (or sold to Huffington Post, or Daily Kos.) Good to know that it's staying in the family.

Good luck in your future endeavors.

[LNM]

124. Thank you and all the best to you.

I can't tell you how much DU has saved my sanity starting in the GW years. I don't post much but I'm here almost daily and appreciate your hard work keeping this site running. Good luck in the future.

Leslie

[GreenPartyVoter]

125. Thank you for everything!

[thinkingagain]

126. Thank you for you've done

You can’t have been on DU for very long without seeing the name Skinner.
When I joined the DU I was pretty upset over the election of that jerk. I knew that I was going to be communicating with like minded people. However I have gained much more DU is a place where people care about others that other than being on a forum together you don’t necissarily know them. It’s a place I can not only get news but trust it’s accurate because of the included links etc.
I know
That Du is an important part of Many lives. Thank you for starting it up and thank EarlG for continuing on.
You all are very much appreciated.

[Roland99]

127. Wow...godspeed to ya!

@Scr0dman up on the twittery thingie

[proud patriot]

128. It Was An Honor

that diagram is exactly how I've always seen DU ..

[Ohiogal]

129. Thank you and all the best to you in future endeavors

[IADEMO2004]

130. Well Done, God Bless, Health and Happiness, Keep in touch.

[Grasswire2]

131. would ID myself to you privately on twitter..

..but your account isn't accepting messages.

[Heartstrings]

132. Thank you for your dedication to DU, Skinner!

Good luck on any new endeavors and will see you on Facebook and Insta!

[cally]

134. Thank you so much for creating and maintaining this crazy, friendly,

Contentious progressive community of passionate and dedicated folks. I am so happy to have been a part of this site for so long. I’ve learned and grown because of it.

I wish you the best going forward.

[struggle4progress]

135. !

[Keepthesoulalive]

136. Thank You

For keeping me sane during the Republican occupation.

[greymattermom]

137. I used to love DU

but the constant South bashing has mostly driven me away. I'm a proud resident of Georgia 6. Newt Gingrich' former district, now represented by Lucy McBath. Every state has rural regions.

[Wawannabe]

138. Skinner

Full sails, and full nets are my wish for you in your new adventures charting these unknown waters.

Peace friend,
Melissa

[TheCowsCameHome]

139. We'll do you proud, Skinner.

You can trust us on that.

[kentuck]

140. Skinner...you created a monster!

You know that, don't you?

[lamp_shade]

142. You changed my life. Thank you.

[TheCowsCameHome]

144. When we carve Trump's fat ass up

we'll dedicate a slice to you.

[C Moon]

146. Thank you!!!

[peggysue2]

147. Though I'm a short-timer in comparison to so many others

I've come to love this site and appreciate all the hard work you have expended to keep the board up and running and relevant. Best wishes in your future endeavors. This rest of us will work hard to do our part.

[pnwmom]

148. Thanks for everything, Skinner! Good luck in all your future endeavors!

[Alliepoo]

149. Thank you for everything!!

Wishing you the very best!! I’ll say “so long- see you on Twitter, Instagram and FB!”

[flying_wahini]

150. You aren't getting away from me.... following you on Twitter

You may be leaving but I will never forget what a respite it was to find soul mates on DU back in the old days.
We all owe you a debt of gratitude for sticking with it. Love you and hug your neck. 🥰


(I think) we met years ago While protesting at Camp Casey
(Outside of W’s ranch in central Texas).
(Joan Baez showed up) got to meet and talk several DU folks that were there.
If it wasn’t you it was others from the past.

I am flying_wahini @ Cantseethefutur

[brer cat]

151. Wishing you the very best rest of your life, Skinner.

Thanks for making DU such a special place.

[0nirevets]

152. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for DU.

I have been a loyal DU'er since the dark days after 911, when I first stumbled across the website. Honestly, I don't know what I would have done without DU to get me through all of these years, and so many crazy transitions in America.

Best to you in your life. Live long, prosper, keep fighting the good fight.

[yonder]

153. Gosh, I don't know what to say other than thanks for all the long hours

you and your team have worked all these years. It shows in the results. This site has been a safe haven for all of us like-minded folk in the past and will continue to be so in the future. Good luck with your upcoming endeavors.

[renate]

154. heartfelt thanks

DU made me realize I wasn't alone. I'm not super social in real life, so this place has meant so much to me. Lots of love and appreciation to you.

[Baclava]

155. Wow, i been here since Jan 2004, we old! I learned so much here, best wishes on your new pursuits!

[Mrs. Overall]

156. Thank you so much for all of the time and energy you have put in to building DU--

it has become a powerful political community.

I discovered DU in the dark days after 9/11 and lurked until 2003. DU saved me when the world felt like it was spinning out of control with the Bush administration and the media hopping onto the bandwagon that pushed for a war that to me seemed ill-conceived and just plain wrong. It was here on DU where I found like-minded individuals.

Although I don't post a lot, DU has continued to keep me sane for over 17 years (especially recently during this current administration) as I come here each morning for my news and for the brilliant commentary of many of my fellow DUers.

Best of luck with your future endeavors, David, and thank you again for having the vision to create and guide this important website.

~Mrs. O

[Fla Dem]

157. I feel as if a long time friend has just told me they are moving cross country.

While I know you will still be out there in the universe, it's knowing you're not HERE. I know Elad and EarlG will continue to run DU with the same high standards we've come to expect over these many year. I always saw you three as the 3 Musketeers. All for one and one for all. You will be missed.

[Pisces]

158. Thank you for everything DU has given us!!

[sarchasm]

159. Best of luck!

We'll keep the lights on.

[hunter]

160. That bright yellow message gave me a panic!

DU is my only "social media."

Without it I might have to start watching television or something...

[mountain grammy]

161. No, Skinner, thank you!!!

And I will definitely kick in for the fund drive.

[StevieM]

162. Armin Tamzarian's reign of terror is over!!

Just kidding.

I will miss you Skinner. Thank you so much for everything you have done for all of us. The world is a better place because you set up this wonderful community.

Happy trails!!

[Ninga]

163. I am forever grateful I found DU ❤️ - and forever grateful of your stewardship David.

Hugs to you and yours! 🥰

ninga

[man4allcats]

164. You know, I've always wondered.

Does anyone ever mistake you for Harold "Patrick McKenna" Green from the Red Green Show?

https://www.imdb.com/video/vi1395178777?playlistId=nm0571405&ref_=vp_rv_28

Skinner photo:

[LAS14]

165. Thanks for all you've done! Good look with all you're going to do! nt

[JustAnotherGen]

166. Thank you

Prior to signing up - I read for a few years. In those dark days of the Bush Presidency - knowing he was appointed, knowing there were no WMDs, the implementation of the Patriot Act . . . this was a little place of light for the enlightened.

[Myrddin]

167. A meeting place for international sanity.

This, (now-ex) EUropean appreciates.

Cheers Skinner!!

[appalachiablue]

168. Wishing you all the best in whatever you pursue,

and many, many thanks for your part in DU.

You and the team created a wonderful and stimulating haven of knowledge and hope for thousands.

Cheers, Stay Well & Here's to Democracy ~ A. Blue

[mtngirl47]

169. You did a good thing with this forum!

I have to laugh when I'm watching TV news and they report on something that I read about days before on DU! (Good job!)

The information, the camaraderie, the hope.....Thank you so much! Good Luck with your new adventures!

[Olafjoy]

170. Love the Venn diagram and love Swedish fish

First website I open in the morning 👍🏻
Thank you and Godspeed 🙏🏻

[A HERETIC I AM]

171. Well, you've gone and done it now, haven't ya?

Best of luck in your future endeavors.

[LiberalLoner]

172. Thank you for all you've done.

Forgive me for having some tears in my eyes.

❤️🌹

[Glorfindel]

173. Thank you, Mr Allen (or Skinner, as I will always think of you)

I can't begin to express how much Democratic Underground has meant to me for the past couple of decades. Be happy and go with many, many blessings!

[StarryNite]

174. Thank you so much for all you have done.

You will be missed. Good luck with your future endeavors.

[UpInArms]

175. You have been my virtual friend for almost twenty years

Thank you for always making room for me on your “sofa” and in your world...

You will always be welcome in mine.

[FM123]

176. Wow.

Good luck in your new life - I hope it brings you as much happiness, excitement and comfort as this place has given to us.

[mfcorey1]

177. Speechless

[panader0]

178. Thank you deeply for creating what is a mainstay in my daily routine.

I have learned so much since I joined in '05. All the best in your future! Drop in and say hello
once in a while. Your creation is a BIG FUCKIN' DEAL. EarlG will carry on . Thanks again.

[canetoad]

179. You'll be missed Skinner

Best wishes to yourself and family.

[Mad_Dem_X]

180. Many thanks to you!

DU has kept me sane during some crazy times (including now). Best of luck in whatever you do next! You rock!

[uppityperson]

181. Thank you Skinner, for your vision and hard work. Best of luck to you.

[Yo_Mama_Been_Loggin]

182. Thanks Skinner

This place was a refuge during some dark times.

Just followed you on Twitter. I use a Seattle Seahawks avatar there as I do here though I use my real name on Twitter. Hope to get a follow back from you.

[GentryDixon]

183. Thank you, Skinner.

You've taken us through many ups & downs. Good luck in your new venture.

We're left with a very competent leadership.

[Sloumeau]

184. Thank you so much for all of your effort!

I have been coming to DU since 2004, even though I did not sign up until years later. It has been so important for me to have a group of Democrats with which I could share ideas. I am not currently working, so I don't have any money to spare right now, so all I can do is say thank you to you, Skinner, and to everyone who works so hard to make this a great place.

[Adelante]

185. Wow, best of luck and many thanks nt

[lillypaddle]

186. The end of an era

the start of a new era. ahem. Well kind of. Good luck to you, Skinner, I've enjoyed many many hours here. Thank you.

Okay, show us what ya got, EarlG!

[Texasgal]

187. You will be missed!

I've spent a large amount of time here in my life and will always appreciate what you have created.

Thank you for all of your hard work! Good Luck in your endeavours!

[PatSeg]

188. K&R

[Zoonart]

189. Thanks for everything, David.

DU is a big part of my day every day. It gives me hope.

[bronxiteforever]

190. Thank you for building a place that when

our whole political world seemed over, we knew we were not alone.

[pbmus]

191. Thanks for being Skinner...

[greatauntoftriplets]

192. Best of luck, Skinner.

Please don't be a stranger. And best of luck in your future ventures. Your sons are really growing up. I remember when they were born.

[blueinredohio]

193. Many thanks Skinner.

Without this site I would have been stark raving mad by now. Good luck in your future endeavors.

[JudyM]

194. Thanks for making DU so solid.

Great navigating, Cap’n. Very best to you, hoping you’ll be blessed somehow for having created this haven for, let’s just say it: bettering humanity.

Hoping you pop in and let us know how things are out there in your new world.

[peacebuzzard]

195. How about that! Best wishes. its been a long road...

from that time I met up with you and some other DUers. You may not even remember. Back in the W days.
the march in NYC.

When the times get rocky, I was and am always grateful to learn from the best like-minded souls what was really going on.
Thanks for making that possible.

[jaxexpat]

196. But what you gonna do with all dis fish? I tink she gonna blow.

[Crunchy Frog]

197. Man, you just scared the living daylights out of me

with that announcement that popped up on my page, and the first words of your post.

Thank you for all you've done, and good luck in your new endeavors.

[alphafemale]

198. I sent a friend request to FB

with message giving my screen name here.

[Tikki]

199. OK...Be safe...Thank You..

For many of us it has been nearly 19 years, also.

Share our joys, for sure. They are just around the corner.

TIKKI

[Totally Tunsie]

200. Happy trails, Skinner!

Thanks for doing all you did for the entire time you did it!

[GoneOffShore]

201. Thank you for all you've done! I'll be following you on Facebook and Twitter.

[Gidney N Cloyd]

202. Thanks-- you made a difference.

[mahina]

203. Holy cow.

Holy smokes.

I’ll do my best.

Best possible wishes to EarlG and Elad. And you of course. Thank you for co-creating this now sacred space.

Aloha

[samnsara]

204. Thank you....

[calimary]

205. Thank you, Skinner! So sorry to see your era pass.

At least you've left us this!

DU got me through bush/cheney and helped me keep my sanity! That's something I will NEVER forget. I've met a lot of good folks here - online mostly, but a few in person. Enjoyed every encounter. Friends and fellow warriors.

The struggle continues. The fight MUST go on. The vigilance must NEVER falter or ease up. This has become my home-on-the-net since 2001 and I fully expect that to continue.

Hope you'll stay in touch. You did good.

Virtual

[chia]

206. Thank you for everything. I was a lurker for 15 years before I signed up, thank you for

providing a safe harbor for us to steady ourselves, as we brace for that next step out in this crazy world.

[kimbutgar]

207. Thank you for starting this site

It helped me in times I felt lost in right wing world.

Good luck in your new endeavors,z

I put In a friend request in Facebook and follow you now on twitter!

Thank you again!

[Anon-C]

208. Words cannot express. Be well, Skinner...

...I cannot thank you enough for your service!

[ismnotwasm]

209. Oh man.

Sorry to see you go, glad DU is still a thing

[JohnnyLib2]

210. All kinds of good wishes and many thanks.

FWIW, I'll always regret missing the first 5 years!

[Chin music]

211. Saying goodbye is one of the hardest things in life.

Too many goodbyes of late.
Thanks for the forum to meet such nice people, and for a spot to vent about the hoarde of barbarians. Life is about new beginnings. I think somewhere along the way, we lose that part of us that makes children's lives such a wonder to behold. Good job letting go of it all. Pretty impressive all in itself. Congrats to EarlG.
I'm grateful to be here and to have participated David.
Vaya con Dios.
Onward to your next beginning Sir.
Chin music

PS...This is one I won't have to delete.....Say what??

[grantcart]

212. You did good.

[Alpeduez21]

213. Thank you very much

May you always have access to a fresh towel

[shenmue]

214. I HAS A SAD

Why u give me a sad?

[TygrBright]

215. Hopefully you'll still check in from time to time here...

...and share your eloquent observations with us.

Too much to say, to put it in a DU post, Dude.

I remember seeing that silly banner at the Bush inaugural and thinking "what the hell... give it a try."

I've been glad ever since.

And this thing you guys built? I think it's gonna keep going. And be a worthy legacy.

You know where to find me if I can help rattle any new cages, afflict any of the comfortable, and/or comfort the afflicted in your future endeavors.

gratefully,
Bright

[ramapo]

216. Thank you... 20 years. Yikes!

First I have to say I love that Venmo diagram.

Second is thank you because DU is and has been the center of my online information universe since basically the beginning.

I remember joining in response to the Bush coup and how great it was to have a place to commensurate and learn and be inspired and be part of everything that has gone on.

I’ve never been a big poster...more a lurker but I have always felt part of the community.

Finally... it is hard to believe it’s been almost 20 years. There’s been a lot of shit.

Best wishes for whatever you do next. Next chapters are always important steps for us to take.

[Yonnie3]

217. OK!

When it's time to move on, it's time. Good luck and thank you.

[pazzyanne]

218. Thank you, Skinner!

You and DU literally saved my life after 2016. I will be grateful to you and this web site forever. Best wishes in your future endeavors.

[flamin lib]

219. DU and 42. The answer to life, the universe and everything. nt

[Lisa0825]

265. +1

[dflprincess]

220. Thanks Skinner

I don't know what I would have done without DU through the Bush years and the current disaster we're living through.

[Chicagogrl1]

221. Thank you thank you thank you

For cofounding this wonderful site. It has kept me sane in an insane world. It has made me happy when sad. It has made me feel i am with friends, when i have been lonely. It has made me realize we are stronger together. Thank you for everything & let us know where we can send $$ to support this wonderful community. Happy trails!

[JDC]

222. Thank you. Best wishes.

[BarbaRosa]

223. Thank you!

[marlakay]

225. Thank you Skinner! This site has helped me

Throughout the years and will continue to help me.

I joined while working on John Kerry campaign and took that loss very hard.

When I first saw you sold I got scared till I saw who you sold to. Wish you luck in whatever comes your way!

[handmade34]

226. all the best going forward

[LaMouffette]

227. Thank you, David Allen (Skinner)!

I haven't been on DU very long, but I am so incredibly grateful to have found this forum that you created! I live in a red county in a red state, and this forum has kept me sane for quite a few months now. Please know that you have impacted so many people through this website. All the very best to you! ---La Mouffette

[keithbvadu2]

228. Thanks and Good Luck!

We all have shared a lot of good info here.

Learned quite a few things too.

[nolabear]

229. Damn. The end of an era. 😢

It’s been an honor. I love EarlG and hope he survives us, but honestly, it’s been an honor.

Just followed you in Twitter. Go and kick ass.

One last

[Niagara]

230. Thank you, Skinner, you are much appreciated.

I certainly wish you the best in your new adventure.

[orangecrush]

231. Farewell and thank you

Hope to see you here from time to time!

[MontanaMama]

232. Oh my. This chokes me up!

Thank you, Skinner, for creating this place where we can be in community. DU has saved my sanity and likely my marriage! Long story there...Anyway, this place means the world to me.

I wish you the best in all you do. I’ll be looking for you on the Insta...

Be well.

[BadgerMom]

233. Thank you.

[Tribetime]

234. Thank you for the best web site ever

[Maeve]

235. I'm still gonna call you 'Boss'

Because you will always be a truly boss dude (for non-boomers, that is a compliment, meaning cool and in charge type). You have been great as "principal" ,owner and leader...Will never forget you were the first to say choosing Sarah Palin meant we had just won the election.
Don't be too scarce around here

[BusyBeingBest]

236. Thank you and happy trails.

[LuckyCharms]

237. Thank you and best wishes Skinner, and

congratulations to EarlG! I'm glad this website will continue on in very good hands.

[Native]

238. Thanks for creating this wonderful community. For people in red areas, it's helped to keep us sane.

Followed you on Twitter - can't wait to see your upcoming tweets!

Wishing you all the best,
@marzenamber

[onenote]

239. Thanks and best wishes for the next step in your journey

[CousinIT]

240. Wow. Well, thank you Skinner for all you've done!

I'd be in a straightjacket by now if not for DU.

Gonna follow you on Twitter tho!

Hope you'll check back in here and say 'hi' and let us know how you're doing.

Take care. Stay safe. And best of luck in your new adventure whatever that is!

[Guilded Lilly]

241. Peace, in every possible manner! Thank-you.

[DesertRat]

242. Thank you for DU!

I wish you well with whatever comes next.

[Hekate]

243. As I wrote to you during the 2016 sabotage vandalism shutdown: What you do is important...

Never doubt that.

I’m kind of in shock here, as I am sure many others are. All the best to you, always. Thank you so much.

[ucrdem]

244. We will miss you, Skinner

If life were just, you three would be rich and Zuck would be in prison, sigh ...

Don't go changin' and please return early and often!

[sarge43]

245. Thank you for helping to make DU a safe heaven.

[blm]

246. ((Skinner))

❤️❤️❤️

[ms liberty]

247. Thank you back. Enjoy life! See you on the internets. n/t

[Guy Whitey Corngood]

248. Will the new administration finally 'fess up to

all that delicious cash from George Soros' vault, which has kept this going?

[Blue_true]

249. You set up an excellent site. Great site, excellent people here. Thanks. nt

[trof]

250. Happy Landings

[ooky]

251. Thanks, and good luck.

Great site, by the way. I didn't find it until 2015, but think I've been here every day since.

[gopiscrap]

252. thank you so much

I will gladly donate

[Generic Brad]

253. My hat is off to you

Job well done. Thanks for the last two decades!

[blogslut]

254. Thank you, David

Back in 2004 (living in red West Texas) being a Democrat in public was literally dangerous. I came here because I felt safe and less alone. That has never changed. You should be proud. What you've done here is good, for me, for Democrats and for America. Bless you.

[mac56]

255. Thank you

Thank you

[JusticeForAll]

256. Thank you!

You did an amazing job! I’ve been here since almost the beginning and will greatly miss you. much success to you in your future endeavors!!!

[lostnfound]

257. A great and friendly website doesn't happen by accident

Congrats on a job well done.
Thank you.

[sellitman]

258. I hope we see you posting here often

Thank you soooooo much.

You are truly one of the Internets GIANTS.

[crickets]

259. DU is indispensable -- thanks for all you've done to make this place

what it is, Skinner. Good fortune to you wherever you roam. Come back to visit often!

[moonscape]

260. Thank you for all the work you

did for us, the team you put in place, and for having this safe place away from the crazy.

I also have no clue what I'd do without DU and I'm a relative newcomer. My only regret is that I didn't land here the month you launched.

All the best in your next life

[lunasun]

261. Good Luck ! It was swell while it lasted .

Thanks for the memories

[SleeplessinSoCal]

262. YOU're welcome.. for all the (Swedish) fish.

What an amusement park ride of a liberal website you dreamed up. Thinking of you always now in conjunction with ...

[raccoon]

263. Thank you for starting DU and keeping it going these many years.

I spend a lot of time here. I’ve learned a lot from DU. It means a lot to have this community of like-minded souls.

Especially for those of us in red area, it’s like an oasis in the desert.

Best to you, and thanks ever so much!

[kairos12]

264. Thank you Skinner. Your contributions to a better society are immense.

[Kitchari]

266. Thank you for everything, Skinner

DU saved my sanity many times. Deep bow

[Mz Pip]

267. Nearly 20 years.

Hard to believe I’ve been here that long.

It’s been quite a ride. Good luck in your coming adventures.

Mz Pip

[Beartracks]

268. The answer is 42.

But what was the question again??

A big thanks to YOU, Skinner, for all you've done, all you do, and all you'll do next.



===========