When I started at the old Niagara Advance in 1990, I had no idea how much this experience would change my life in such an incredibly wonderful way. The friendships I have formed over the years mean so much to me. I even met my husband when he came in to place an ad. What a good deal he got!
For more than 30 years I have helped businesses market themselves in the town of Niagara-on-the-Lake, as well as developing several tourism-
related magazines and sections. The decision to retire has not been an easy one, and I could have never made this decision without the incredible people I have by my side.
Four years ago, Penny Coles and I decided to open our own independent paper. Penny, you are an extremely talented editor and it has been an honour having you as a business partner. I’m even more honoured to call you my dear friend. You have been a true inspiration to me both personally and professionally. I am incredibly proud of all we have accomplished and the papers we publish each week. I may be retiring as sales manager, but look forward to continuing as an owner to support you as the paper continues to grow.
I am overjoyed to share that Julia Coles will be taking over for me. I have no doubt that she will be successful as she is an incredible marketing genius, extremely organized and tons of fun.
Thank you to our amazing designer Rosie Gowsell who makes our clients so happy with her creativity.
To Mike Balsom, thank you for the amazing job you do to bring incredible stories to our readers. Thank you for understanding our vision of what a community newspaper should be.
And to all our other contributors and those who share their stories with us, who also help by lending their voices to a great community paper, I thank you!
This community continues to amaze me. When someone needs help, our community surrounds them with love and everything they need. I have seen it time and time again and look forward to continuing to be a part of this community, just in a different way.
I have spent many hours thinking of how to say “thank you” for the business, and the trust you have placed in me over the years, but far more, for the friendships that have grown over this time. Please accept my sincere and utmost gratitude.
I am looking forward to retirement, being able to travel more, spend time with my two adorable grandkids and volunteer in our beautiful community.
“How lucky am I to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.” — Winnie The Pooh
Karen Skeoch
The Local