Innisfail, I have a confession to make – I’ve never been good at goodbyes.
I had a hard time leaving my family behind in Ontario when I moved to the Northwest Territories in 2007 when I took a job as a reporter with Hay River’s weekly newspaper, The Hub. Luckily security at Toronto Pearson International Airport made sure my goodbye was a little longer – the metal eyelets of my hiking boots and my carry-on bag full of electronics made sure I got a good hard look – in full view of my parents and siblings.
After four-and-a-half years north of 60° I had the same difficulty leaving my northern family when I accepted the position of editor with your community paper, the Innisfail Province.
But those goodbyes pale in comparison to the one I’m saying this week. This Friday, December 9, is my last day in the role of editor. On Monday I’m starting a new chapter in my working career – I’ve been hired by Stantec’s Red Deer office as a marketing coordinator.
But my family and I have no intention of leaving Innisfail – I doubt we ever could.
Since moving here in May, I’ve fallen in love with the town. In my initial column, I said part of the reason why was the fact the town had a Tim Hortons outlet. But there’s more to the story than that. Much, much more.
I love small-town living. I spent 29 years living in Canada’s largest city, Toronto, and all I ever was there was just another face lost in the crowd. You can’t have that same anonymity in a small town, and I’m forever thankful for that. It’s so easy to get to know people, and even easier to get involved.
My wife, Michelle, my stepson, Dylan, and I bought the house of our dreams in July and fully intend to grow our family in these friendly surroundings. For now, that growth is limited to Holly, our new 10-week-old puppy, who we rescued from a life of neglect near Calgary on Nov. 25. She’s quickly giving our other dog a run for his money. She’s also getting used to her new home community – she enjoys the constant walks in the company of her new “big brother,” Guinness.
I’m also pleased to announce that Sylvia Cole, the Province’s ace reporter, will assume the role of editor following my resignation. Sylvia’s a great journalist who shares my desire to tell Innisfail’s stories in an engaging, fun and honest way.
The Province’s staff are also second to none. It won’t be easy to fully step away from this office – especially because I consider each and every one of our staff to be a friend. I don’t think I’ve ever worked in a more enjoyable environment.
To the staff of Mountain View Publishing, thanks for taking the chance on me and giving me the opportunity to further my career. I’ll forever be in your debt.
And to the Town of Innisfail and the countless people I have met in my seven months at the Province, thanks for allowing me to tell your stories. I look forward to reading more of them in the months and years ahead.
