With the publishing of this most recent issue, I have officially been editor of the Cazenovia Republican for one year.

And what a year it was!

After 52 weeks on the job, I can honestly say this was one of the hardest issues I had to put together. Because of New Year’s, we were required to go to print on the morning of Friday, Dec. 30, as opposed to our usual Monday deadline. And while it usually isn’t hard to find interesting things to write about around Cazenovia, (most) everyone (understandably) took this last week off to be with family and enjoy the last days of 2011.

Consequently, news items were almost non-existent.

The adage “no news is good news” was definitely not established by someone in the newspaper industry.

The lack of public happenings offered us at the Republican the chance to dig through old issues from the past year for a review of 2011.

It was actually a fun experience, bringing up memories with each page of layout.

I was reminded how fast a year can pass, and how far I can push myself. I was reminded how easily ink can transfer to skin, and ultimately to clothes.

I was reminded how much I have grown in the past year, both as a journalist and as a citizen. I was reminded that it is ultimately you, the reader, that makes this job so rewarding.

Hearing from happy subscribers is one of my favorite parts of this job. It reminds me that the hours I put into each issue are acknowledged by people other than my family members and coworkers.

I enjoy being the editor of your community newspaper, and I enjoy writing about the things you are interested in. We appreciate your readership and hope to continue to occupy your mailbox each Thursday!

If you have any news tips or story ideas, be sure to email them to [email protected], call 434-8889 ext. 338 or stop by our office space above Common Grounds.

Happy new year!