The News Blog:

Steve Gilliard, 1966-2007
It is with tremendous sadness that we must convey the news that Steve Gilliard, editor and publisher of The News Blog (www.thenewsblog.net), passed away early this morning. He was 41.

To those who have come to trust The News Blog and its insightful, brash and unapologetic editorial tone, we have Steve to thank from the bottom of our hearts. Steve helped lead many discussions that mattered to all of us, and he tackled subjects and interest categories where others feared to tread.

Our hearts and prayers go out to Jen and Steve's family. This is big loss for all of us.

Update: John Amato: "Steve was a great friend to me. We emailed often and he was incredibly kind and helpful to me when I first started blogging. His writing style was fierce, but his soul was gentle. He will be missed and my thoughts and prayers go out to Jen and his family. You always knew where you stood with Steve."

Jane Hamsher has more ...