Thirty-nine years ago, I began a journey that ended up defining my lifetime. Just a couple of years out of college, I was hired to write a history book about rural electrification in Indiana and work on a tabloid newspaper called Electric Consumer. I never would have imagined back then that I would make a career of editing that publication and the magazine it later became, Indiana Connection.
Throughout that career, I’ve evolved, both professionally and personally. Not only have I learned about the electric cooperative industry, I’ve learned about the people behind it — the employees, the directors, the consumers. I’ve learned about Indiana. I’ve learned about you. I’ve even learned about me with every one of the 350-plus columns I’ve written. Sharing my musings, stories and informational nuggets with you has been a privilege I don’t take for granted.
That’s why saying goodbye now is one of the hardest things I’ve done. This is my last issue as editor of Indiana Connection. I’m slowing my pace down a smidge by entering the world of retirement. Stephanie Groves will be taking over my role starting with next month’s issue. She shares my dedication to making sure Indiana Connection is a magazine that entertains and informs and connects with you each month. I know you’ll enjoy getting to know her in the months and years ahead.
Before I go, I’d like to thank the talented and hard-working individuals who have worked on Electric Consumer/Indiana Connection through the years. Each one impacted the publication in his or her own way and contributed to its success. I remember and appreciate everyone who’s been part of our editorial team and am so thankful we were able to work together, collaborate and be part of each other’s lives — some for just a few months, and some, like my friend, Senior Editor Richard Biever, for over three decades. Thank you all for not only sharing your talents — but also the laughs and sometimes the tears.
I feel truly blessed to have been able to work for you, the readers, all these years. I’ll cherish the memories!
