It’s been great, but it’s over. This is my

It’s been great, but it’s over.

This is my last week as editor of the Rappahannock News. It has been a rewarding, fascinating, and educational experience.

Before I was editor I thought I knew Rappahannock bounty. But my knowledge was superficial and often ncomplete. Over the last five months I have learned much ibout Rappahannock - mostly good things, but some that is ead and ugly. (Nobody can know everything. There still is a lot yoing on that I don’t know about.)

' The good far outweighs the others. I’ve learned about our excellent school system with competent and caring professional teachers and administrators. I’ve gotten to meet and know some of the most interesting, dedicated, and friendly people (plus a few soreheads). From you, I’ve learned about your problems and concerns, your plans and wishes, how you make your living, your political and social views, and your hobbies and spare time activities.

The bad includes unemployment, crime, and threats to our way of life from such things as power lines and unauthorized dumps. And there is the long-term double sword that growth and development here and in surrounding counties will bring.

; As my knowledge grew, so did my love of the land and the people. I’ve tried to pass this knowledge and love on to you through the paper. A community newspaper is a major means of communication for the people. I’m proud of my role, however small, in helping to keep Rappahannock citizens informed.

Although I won’t be editing the paper, I’ll still be around. I am resigning to take a position as documentation specialist and technical writer with Blueridge Technologies in Flint Hill, and Joy and I will still be living in Sperryville.

I plan to continue to contribute to the Rappahannock News through occasional articles, op-ed pieces, and letters to themew editor, whoever she or he may be. And I’ll be more active in community affairs.

In the meantime, may we meet again. Au revoir.

-Bruce Sloane