Out with the old and in with the new

Wow. I don’t even know where to begin with this one. My final column for the newspaper.

I guess I should start by saying for those who don’t know, a year has come and gone for ol’ Sammy here, and he’s moving back down to the Lower Mainland to continue his journalism career in all its glory.

It’s been a roller-coaster ride with very high ups and some tough lows, but all in all I’m incredibly proud of the work I’ve done here and the unforgettable experience that is “Nakusp.”

I’ve worked many an evening, weekend and overtime to get the paper filled to the best of my ability each and every week. It’s a tough gig, but there’s very few things I would exchange for the invaluable experience and friendships I’ve come across. Just off the top of my head I would say a fighter jet or a majestic genie-filled lamp. But hey, what are the odds?

I kid, of course. As I often try to do with my column and I know many of you out there have appreciated it. I’ll always cherish every person who complimented my work or the nice things you’ve done for me.

I can’t make a list for all the people who have helped me out in my time here as it would take up this whole page, but to those of you out there whom I hope read this column, you know who you are, and thank you so much for making my time here at the Arrow Lakes News worth it.

For every cranky phone call or email message I got, I know there were 10 of you out there who appreciate what I was doing here, and for that I need to thank you folks who have supported me.

I’ve done it before, but please forgive me in mentioning the lovely Stefania Seccia, who has been a sweetheart not only about moving here with me, but being so very sweet about moving back to the Lower Mainland not just two months after you arrived.

You know, I have to be honest with you folks. When I first arrived in Nakusp I had no idea what I was getting myself into. I didn’t know the village. I had only driven through Revelstoke, but never down here myself.

When I drove in I was shaking in nervousness. Not because of a lack of confidence, but looking around and seeing such a small town that I would be living in threw me right off.

I came from Burnaby where Vancouver was just a Skytrain ride away. I was leaving my friends, family and girlfriend for the unknown. It scared the hell out of me.

But after my first week here and meeting all the people and being welcomed so warmly into the community I had my fears put at ease.

Within the first month I made what I know to be a lifelong friendship in someone very special.

Within the first five months I had explored mountain paths, rivers and even Music Fest.

And of course that classic Boardwalk which provided plenty of beautiful moments.

I experienced a freedom like no other, and I knew it would be hard to move on when the time came.

Now I’ve never been good at goodbyes. I know the paper will carry on very well as it did before me with the new person coming in.

I’m excited for them to get to know everyone here, and if they get the welcome that I did then I know they’ll be in for a treat.

Thank you, Nakusp. Truly. Through all our trials and tribulations, you’ve been a wonderful home.

And now I kindly must bid you all adieu.

Stay Classy.