By Hannelore volpe

The Stouffville Sun-Tribune and I have gotten our divorce.

It wasn't something either of us anticipated, but somehow my rheumatoid arthritis got in the way.

I'm on the mend, but it will take some more time to get back up to snuff.

Leaving the paper was one of the hardest things I've had to do.

I started working in the old Stouffville Sun office 10 years ago. Jim Mason was at the helm, and I had written freelance stories for him for about nine years before that.

When I was told I got to share an office and a wastepaper basket with fellow reporter Rod Urquhart, I knew I had arrived in the heady world of journalism. That wastepaper basket came in handy. No longer would we have to sneak into Jim's office to dispose of our apple cores.

It was also the time I learned to use the computer, an interesting experience in itself.

Back then, people came into the office to buy office supplies, send faxes and place ads.

A newspaper office is a window on the world.

I interviewed people who had lost their children or parents to tragic accidents, and I cried afterwards. I was surprised at how willing most people were to tell their stories.

At the same time, I got a front-row seat on all the talented, dedicated and energetic people in town. You'd be surprised at how many residents toil away year after year to bring you events such as the Strawberry Festival, music performances, community-wide dinners, sports events and do many other good works.

I have to thank all of you to whom I've talked over the years. Thank you for letting me into your life and helping your local paper thrive.

Thank you also to town staff for your co-operation. It has been a pleasure working with you, especially covering town council.

Last, but certainly not least, I have to thank Jim Mason for being such a positive mentor.

I wish the new reporter, Sandra Bolen, an amazing time working for a local paper that will reflect an increasingly diverse and growing town.

You can say farewell to Hannelore Volpe in person at an information reception Monday from 3 to 5 p.m. at The Sun-Tribune, 6290 Main St., in downtown Stouffville.