After a year and a half spent chasing down breaking stories, sharing tales that reflect the pulse of the community, and photographically documenting the people and places that comprise the rich mosaic that is the Columbia Valley, this is my final column for the Valley Echo.

I can honestly say I’ve poured my heart and soul into putting out quality newspapers each week, often at the expense of my own sanity and personal time.

When I arrived at the Pioneer — B.C.’s only full-colour weekly rural newspaper— I knew I’d found something special. And with the remarkable re-animation our team has achieved with the Valley Echo, valley readers have never had more news at their fingertips.

I will remain in the valley this summer, pursuing other opportunities and enjoying the relative freedom of a life not constricted by Monday and Wednesday deadlines!

Having spent much of last summer laid up in recuperation after a rock climbing fall, I’m truly looking forward to a summer of exploring, and appreciating the  fact I’m healthy and alive, after what should have been lights out for me last May.

You can still expect to see my byline in the two local newspapers on occasion — with our imminent move to a model that involves one editor, two reporters, and a selection of valley-based freelance writers,  the Pioneer and Valley Echo should be able to boast a more diverse range of journalists than ever before.

Thanks to all who’ve made my time at the helm here a memorable one, and even to those who’ve tested my patience on occasion.  I look forward to crossing paths with all of you!