This is probably the most difficult to write blog entry I’ve posted here on hockeybuzz since joining the staff in the Spring of 2009.
8 ½ years ago, Eklund afforded me a unique opportunity to join hockeybuzz, on the recommendation of my good friend Al Cimaglia (who preceded me as Chicago writer here).
Talk about good timing. As Chicago’s on-ice fortunes rose, so in many ways did mine here.
I’ve amassed nearly 4000 Twitter followers, made countless new friends all over North America and even the world. And I’ve learned a lot about myself (good and bad), about hockey—through the incredible dialogue that’s sprung up on my message board over the last several years—and about life and people.
I am immensely grateful as I announce today that I am moving on from hockeybuzz, effective 10/31—going to join a new web entity called the-rink.com.
HB will go on without me, as no doubt will outstanding Hawk coverage from whoever takes my place. And I will still be around here as a site season ticket holder and frequent poster on this and other forums.
While I never got to know all the writers here, I did some, and I count them as friends: my man Pete Tessier (who worked with me on breaking the Johnny Oduya to Chicago story in 2012), Jason Millen (who I’m proud to say I was able to help guide as he built his blogging credentials, before ably taking over the St. Louis gig here), Steve Hindle, Travis Yost, Jan Levine, Mike Augello, Eric Smith, Matt Karash, and others
Thanks to EO for running a tight ship here and keeping me in line throughout the seasons. You’re a good man.
Finally, a heartfelt, and deep, thank you to all of you. My readers—both Chicago fans and those of other teams.
Your criticisms helped make me a better writer and a better person.
Your support bolstered me through it all and reminded me why I really do this.
After all, in the end, I’m a fan too. I get the crazy passion with which we follow or teams and this game. The glory and the frustration.
I have visited more than a few hockey sites and their message boards over the years. None compare with the humor, camaraderie, and hockey knowledge of the fans here.
Au revoir mes amis. Bon chance.
JJ out.
Chicago Blackhawks Blogger • 
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