So long and thanks for all the fish, as Douglas Adams said. Come to think of it I haven't had enough fish yet in my eight years in this coastal community, so maybe fishing will be one of my new pursuits as I leave The NEWS.
As you read this I have already left, but don't worry, I will be replaced and the rest of the newsroom staff are still hard at work, though they are also leaving the office, moving from downtown Parksville to the Heritage Mall, next to Serious Coffee.
I've had a good run at one of the most vibrant community newspapers in a struggling industry. Because of you loyal readers, this paper maintains strong readership and community engagement, which I have appreciated over the years.
Though it's dangerous to start naming groups, because I'm leaving out more than I could ever list, I'll live dangerously and tip my hat to some of the area's amazing, mostly-volunteer-driven groups like the SOS, Mid-Island Habitat Enhancement Society and Streamkeepers, the North Island Wildlife Recovery Association, Broombusters, Beachfest, Forward House, Inclusion Parksville (PDACL), chambers of commerce, Rotary and other service clubs, the Legions, Manna Homeless Society, search and rescue groups and other emergency services, Vancouver Island Compassion Dogs and the SPCA and all the various markets.
The number of volunteers and their efforts in the region really is impressive.
I take with me many fond memories and lasting relationships, and since I'm staying in the area I look forward to seeing you around.
While they look for my replacement, the newsroom can still be reached through the other wonderful reporters J.R. Rardon and Lauren Collins and editor John Harding at editor@pqbnews.com or 250-905-0019.
Keep an eye on my still developing website at AurenAuthor.com for more on my future endeavours.
— Auren Ruvinsky's last day at The NEWS was Friday. We wish him all the best.