Time for me to move on

When my daughter Darcy suggested I come out of retirement to write for the local newspaper, I was skeptical. After a long career with the federal government as an audit manager at the Department of Housing and Urban Development, I was enjoying the freedom of setting my own schedule, writing occasional freelance articles and ministering in my local church.

Jumping back into a regular work schedule, albeit part-time, seemed unappealing.

But two years later, I'm glad I accepted the challenge. Learning the ins and outs of city and county government, interviewing residents and taking the occasional sports photo has been fun and informative.

Besides, it got me out of the house and more involved with the local community.

Over the past two years, I have interviewed coaches and students, veterans and health care professionals, entrepreneurs and government employees, newcomers and folks whose ancestors pioneered Adams County. Exploring the lives of these community members has been a pleasure, allowing me to gain insights into their politics, interests and aspirations.

However, a myriad of competing priorities has made it necessary, as they say, to "pass the torch" - hopefully to a community member with a knack for writing and a passion for local stories and people. My last official day with the Ritzville Adams County Journal will be Aug. 15.

I want to thank Roger Harnack, owner and publisher of the newspaper and Free Press Publishing, who provided this opportunity; Michelle Van Diest, whose graphics talents make the newspaper shine; and my brother-in-law, Byrne Bennett, who covers sports for the Lincoln County Record-Times and joined me in this journalistic endeavor.

I also want to thank my daughter Darcy who "forced" me out of retirement for a couple of years, and my wife Rena who has been a supportive and discerning proofreader. Compliments from grateful readers have also been encouraging.

My wife and I love this community. We expect to continue learning, making new friends, and growing with Ritzville.

- Dale Brown is retiring as the Ritzville reporter. To reach him, email [email protected].