Good-bye

Imagine watching a thrilling murder mystery. Now imagine that, about half-way through, you get up and walk out of the theatre. In essence, this is what I feel like I am doing this week when, after nine years at the Daily Breeze, I am leaving the newspaper and the court beat behind.

Journalism has always been my passion and, on the court beat, I have found people and issues to write about that are really interesting, entertaining, sad, dramatic and horrific. Leaving with so many cases pending - cases relating to people I may have never met but feel compassion and sympathy for - was one of the things I considered in making this very, very difficult decision.

I think about Cori Desmond, Lauren Sarene-Key, Casie Hyde, Lynne Knight, Cheryl Green and so many others daily. My heart goes out to their grieving families, many of whom have let me share, and share in, their sorrow. I always hoped my stories would prevent further senselessness, but I really know people will continue to do wretched things to each other no matter how many stories I write.

Many of you readers have been awfully supportive over the years with your compliments and questions. I thank each of you. Many of you readers have been just awful over the years with your unwarranted criticisms, racial rants and vile, hate-filled user comments. I have nothing for any of you.

My career path is veering off course, but I feel confident that I will find fulfillment and challenge in my new endeavor working as a writer and editor for a children's advocacy agency. I believe in the justice system and I believe in the Daily Breeze. I will miss them both deeply.

Farewell, readers.

"We don't give our criminals much punishment, but we sure give 'em plenty of publicity."  ~Will Rogers