When I wrote my first post for the Vocalo blogs in November 2009, I couldn’t have imagined what an exciting and eventful year would follow. From the announcement of Oprah’s departure to Bill & Walter’s reunion, and from Roger Ebert’s television comeback to the meltdown at Tribune Co. and WGN Radio, it’s been an unforgettable 12 months on the media beat.

As you may have noticed, there’ve been some significant changes here, too. With the recent redesign of the Vocalo blogs and their move to a new site at wbez.org; I have decided it’s time for me to leave Chicago Public Media. But let me assure you, I won’t be leaving the daily media beat. I expect to make an announcement about my new online home soon.

Before I sign off here, I want to thank Chicago Public Media and especially its outstanding CEO, Torey Malatia, for giving me the opportunity to launch my new career as a blogger. I will be grateful to him forever for his confidence, support and encouragement. I also appreciate the efforts of Allison Scholly, Wendy Turner, Steve Edwards and Andrew Gill.

I’ve been exceedingly proud to be associated with my fellow Vocalo bloggers — all consummate professionals and respected media brands in their own right. All of us owe our deepest gratitude to Justin Kaufmann, the brilliant and hard-working editor who brought us together and kept us on track.

Above all, I thank you for welcoming me back to the beat and making this blog a daily destination. The loyalty of so many readers, and the insightful, spirited participation of so many of you who regularly shared comments in this space were more gratifying that I can express.

Hope to see you all again soon.