Bidding a fond farewell to an unforgettable time

Posted Jan 12, 2012 By Phil Ambroziak

EMC Lifestyle - For the past couple of months, my future has been uncertain.

Until recently, I had no idea what sort of impact the Metroland/Performance Printing merger would have on my career as a journalist. In the end, however, it seems it's time to close this chapter of my life by bidding both readers and friends a fond farewell.

For the past two years, I've had the pleasure of serving as a reporter and - for a brief period - as interim associate editor at the EMC. The experience is one I will never forget, as it allowed me to share the stories of so many incredible people from across the city and provided me with memories I will cherish until the end of time.

Combing through various EMC editions I've contributed to during my tenure, I'm reminded of all the amazing people I have met and the wonderful events I've been a part of. Everything from meeting actor/director Kevin Costner at the Spencerville Fair to covering last year's federal and provincial elections to interviewing everyday people with far from everyday stories would not have been possible had I not been given this unforgettable opportunity.

Knowing I have been able to touch your lives through my words means a lot to me and speaks volumes for the passion I have for the newspaper industry.

Yes, I am leaving, but fortunately I won't be leaving my profession. A great career opportunity has presented itself. The only catch, however, is this new job isn't local. Before month's end I will be heading out west to embark on a new adventure. It's both scary and exciting at the same time.

Of course the most difficult aspect of this change will be temporarily leaving behind my wife and three children. Obviously there is an expense involved when it comes to a big move, so this is pretty much our only option at this time. Change is never something I strongly embrace, and going it alone for the first little while isn't going to be easy.

Unless a miracle lottery win or the perfect job opportunity closer to home presents itself in the next few days, it seems I'll be getting used to being on my own again - at least until summer rolls around.

Thank goodness for technology. As much as I am behind the times when it comes to everything you can do with a computer these days, the Internet will likely be my primary link to the everyday goings on back home.

Meanwhile, I will use this final column to express my extreme gratitude to EMC readers and to all of you who have supported me.

When I started with the paper, I wrote about how great it was to once again be doing the type of work I love most after having been away from the business for a brief period. I leave with my head held high and with pride in a job well done.

Last but not least, I want to express my most sincere thanks to my colleagues and friends, not just here but all those I have worked with throughout my career.

We've experienced a lot together and, much like the people, places and things I've written about, you have made my professional experiences that much more memorable. Thank you and goodbye.