ASHLAND — By the time you’re reading this, my dad and will have hauled my stuff to Montana, where I’ll begin reporting on a new community with the Flathead Beacon, an independently-owned news organization in the Flathead Valley.
I’ve never been very good with goodbyes. I feel like no matter what you say, it always falls just a little bit flat, or isn’t quite right, especially when it’s a goodbye to somewhere or someone you really care about.
When I first moved to Ashland, I was so tentative about whether I’d ever find my place, or if it’d feel like home. I vividly remember writing about those wistful feelings in a column at the county fair back in 2023.
But this town quickly grew on me as so many of you sat down and took the time to share your stories with me.
The best part of the job
See, the best part of what we do here at the Source every single day comes with getting to know each of you.
It’s being embedded in our communities, so we’re the first call when schools do activities like the selection of a new pope or a trial about the Big Bad Wolf, or so we’re the person there when a protest takes over downtown Ashland.
It’s loving our traditions, like Freer Field Christmas and Veterans Appreciation Day.
It’s sharing about the causes you care about, like raising awareness for veteran suicide.
It’s highlighting the work you’re doing to tackle issues like chronic absenteeism and getting kids interested in colleges or careers.
These stories only scratch the surface of what’s happened in Ashland during my two years here.
I’ve been humbled, and honored, by each of you who has given me your time, let me into your world and given me the gift of your trust.
Leaving a mark
There’s a quote I love that’s something along the lines of how, “Everything I’ve ever let go of has claw marks on it.”
Oh man, am I leaving claw marks all over this little slice of Ohio.
Ashland truly has been the world headquarters of nice people, wonderful friendships, amazing coffee (thanks for everything, Downtown Perk and Goldberry) and Hallmark-level holidays.
I’ll miss it, and all you readers, so much. Thank you for caring about local journalism — and local reporters.
