All good things must end. It’s cliché, but more often than not it proves itself true.

And I can’t stand it.

I don’t like goodbyes; I don’t like the finality in the thought of not seeing the faces of people I once spent time with, or the places I traveled, or never feel the sensations I got from experiencing something new again. I like open doors.

Which is why saying I’m leaving The Clanton Advertiser after almost two and a half years of part-time work is so tough for me. I love this place. Not just the office or the people in the office, but Chilton County. You, the readers. I love all of it.

The people of this county have been nothing but cordial and welcoming in all of my experiences, and for a kid learning the ropes, I can’t thank you enough for putting me at ease. I can’t thank you enough for your patience and willingness to work with me. And I thank you for trusting me enough to put your stories out there.

I’ll never forget what an inspiration Bart Finlayson is to overcoming challenges and working as hard as possible no matter what. I’ll always hold walking around Peach Jam and the Peach Parade near and dear. Being able to chronicle the last days of the old Dari Delite in Clanton and the impact it had was moving; I never realized how much a landmark can mean. Getting to personally interview the late Earl Caton and talk about his experiences at Normandy is something I’ll hold on to. Talking to members of the Lake Mitchell HOBO about the future of the Coosa River was amazing, as well.

The last example: I was moved at how much pride can be taken in a town and a team the night I covered Jemison knocking off Bibb County in a big football upset last fall. Seeing how the stars in their courses aligned to take a group of kids and the people that support them to the highest of highs that night will stay with me forever. Between the Bible verses on the walls of the stadium to inspire, to the absolute silence when the National Anthem was played, to the sounds of the cheers and the smell of home cooked concessions, it was something I have been searching for for a long time: what America was, and fortunately, in places like Chilton County, still is.

So now, I’m off to the Shelby County Reporter, where I’ve taken a full-time job as their sports reporter. It’s a great opportunity, and as a believer in divine provision, a Godsend. I am so thankful for this opportunity, and I can’t wait to see what’s in store. I’m beyond excited for new challenges and opportunities.

That said, Chilton County will always hold a special place in my heart. No matter how far I go, no matter how much time passes, you’ll always be special to me. I feel like I owe this place so much. So, instead of goodbye, let’s just say “I’ll see you soon.”

You don’t know how bad I hope that’s true. Thanks for everything, everyone.

Drew Granthum wrote part-time for The Clanton Advertiser while studying at the University of Montevallo.