On Deadline was compiled and edited by Mark Mahoney, editorial page editor of The Post-Star in Glens Falls, N.Y. If you have an innovations or inspiration you'd like to share with American Editor readers, please e-mail it to Mark at mahoney@poststar.com.

Spring 2009 Moving on Lessons from across the pond Go jump in a lake Re-gifting Unflattering portrayal Freedom of speech debate Blame it on the kid Super Bummer Business model Aren’t we non-profit already? Sun still not shining Fewer statehouse reporters

U.S. SEN. HILLARY CLINTON had a little last-minute fun at the expense of New York press corps upon leaving her Senate seat to become secretary of state. Reporters and editorial writers weren't always kind to Mrs. Clinton during her eight years in the Senate, as they meticulously covered her every move and utterance.

But the senator found some good humor in the whole experience as she and her scrutinizers parted ways.

In a Jan. 23 goodbye letter sent by e-mail to media throughout the state, Sen. Clinton noted that she'd held 730 press conferences and press availabilities during her tenure. She went on to thank members of the media and described what she'll miss most in her encounters with the press.

“I am going to miss seeing you on the other side of the podium, not to mention in the hallway, in every doorway, and once in a while hiding in the bushes.”

She signed the letter, simply, “Hillary."*