It is with mixed emotions I begin to write this, my last editorial for The Chronicle. For those who have not yet been made aware, I have taken the position of Library Director for the Bolivar-Harpers Ferry Public Library, starting Monday!

I am beyond excited to head into the new position in a location that means the world to me. I have served as a member of the Board of Trustees for the library for many years and when the opportunity came to apply for the Director position, it was one I couldn’t pass up.

But in taking that job, I?close the chapter of my life that has revolved around newsprint, deadlines, interviews and photographs for over 20 years.

It is bittersweet to look back and realize I won’t be responsible for getting those stories written on time, getting the layout done or interviewing the next first whomever…

I once believed I would retire from the newspaper industry. I once believed it would be from the job I held previous to The Chronicle. Then, I thought, here I am in Shepherdstown, enjoying providing news to this community, so here I will stay.

But, plans change and people move on. And so I embark on this new journey which will have me disseminating information to the public, just in a different manner.

And, lest one think I?can give up the journalistic blood completely, think again! I will be fortunate enough to do freelance writing, sometimes for The Chronicle and for The Journal as well. I will continue to be actively involved in the Jefferson County community and will offer my skills to both papers when needed to give some extra coverage for events and happenings.

In that way,?I will be able to keep in touch with all those who have come to mean so much to me over this 20 year career and still keep my thumb on the pulse on the of the community as well. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have something to share. If I?cannot personally write about something for you, I will know to whom you should turn.

I wish all of you the best and I say a hearty thank you for all of your contributions, suggestions, compliments and criticisms over the past five-plus years I have served as your Editor.

I have enjoyed meeting many new people since coming to Shepherdstown and have taken part in so many events and activities I would not otherwise have known existed. It has been a wonderful journey to experience all sorts of adventures with you all.

As I write this, I?am not yet aware who will be taking over as the Chronicle editor; however, I know that you all will welcome whomever sits in the chair and treat them with respect and kindness as you have done with me over the years. Please make that new person feel welcome in Shepherdstown.

Please continue to call when you have news items or email as it helps our small staff be aware of what’s going on. I know Vanessa and the next editor will continue to provide quality coverage of the town and surrounding area’s events.

Remember, Bolivar is not too far away and the library there is open six days a week. You are welcome there and I would love to have you visit us and enjoy our hospitality.