This is the 126th and final editorial I will write for Powell River Peak, as I move on from my double position here as publisher/editor to pursue the next chapter of my career.
Over the course of the past two and a half years I have received countless comments on what I have written in this space. I have always told people who said they liked or didn't like one of my editorials that, just wait, there would be another one coming soon that they would feel the exact opposite about.
I am proud of the topics I have tackled in this space, and the way that I have tackled them. Some people have asked if will I go out with a bang and take down some form of corruption on my way out. The answer is: that important work will continue on without me each week.
The future of the Peak is brighter than ever. Incoming publisher Kelly Keil has lived and breathed the newspaper business in Powell River for more than two decades (in fact, since high school). Serving as my associate publisher the past year-plus, Keil has already become a stronger publisher than I ever was, and I have no doubt she will carry the Peak to its next impressive ascent. Our readers and clients will be well served in her strong and able hands.
Incoming editor Shane Carlson also has an impressive background in community journalism, including being the son of Peak founders Joyce and Don Carlson. After spending many years playing supporting roles in the newspaper industry, he has become an amazing editor, balancing the fairness and patience needed for the position.
I am a strong advocate of the importance of community media. It is crucial that every city has a quality newspaper to bring its residents a full scope of information. I know the Peak is achieving this because of the feedback we receive on a daily basis. I truly believe the Peak, and all community newspapers, continue to be a vital part of the way we gather information.
As I finalize the process of leaving the Peak, I am realizing what I will miss most about doing this. Foremost is my team, who have been the most driven, smart people I have ever worked with. I am very excited to see what they will do next.
I will miss a few dozen other things as well, including the aforementioned and constant reader feedback.
Will I miss writing these editorials every week? You bet I will. Will I miss the 12-hour production days? Hmm, not so much.
