Sometimes you have to move on, even from really good things, if you want to keep progressing.

I left the newspaper business behind in 2003 when I moved home to take care of my mom. It called me back in 2007, and almost exactly four years later, I left again for the opportunity to join COLE Publishing and take the reins of Cleaner magazine.

After starting with Cleaner, I took over Municipal Sewer & Water. Since then, I’ve worked on Gas, Oil & Mining Contractor, Plumber, and our latest launch, I&I. I’ve also had the opportunity to help launch some other projects, but Cleaner has been the one constant. Over the past seven years, I’ve established a relationship with this industry. I’ve gotten to know a lot of good people who’ve helped me and allowed me to tell their stories. I’m grateful for that opportunity.

Sometimes, however, you need to take on new challenges. I was recently given a new opportunity with a magazine that has nothing to do with sewer and drain work, and both the timing and the challenge are right. My workload dictates that I have to give something up, and since MSW and I&I are so closely linked, it makes the most sense to hand off Cleaner to another editor. But I have to say, it wasn’t an easy decision.

I really feel like I’ve become a part of the industry. I’ve met and worked with so many great people, from contractors and manufacturers to the people here in the office who help put this magazine together every month. I’ll still see the people in the office every day because I’ll be sitting at the same desk and doing much of the same work, but since I’m stepping away from Cleaner I have to mention a couple people who play just as big a role as I have.

Kayla Bisnette is the main sales rep for Cleaner. She’s been great to work with and was a huge help to me when I came on board. She helped me get a handle on the industry, and she introduced me to many people with whom I’ve since developed good relationships.

Keri Heibel is the graphic designer who puts these pages together. She’s a pleasure to work with and does a great job with the magazine. She’s the reason it looks so good every month. For that, I can forgive the fact that she’s a Minnesota Vikings fan.

There are so many other people who have proofread, advised and assisted in a variety of ways. They’ve all helped me tremendously, and they’re all a big part of this magazine.

And now, it’s time for Kim Peterson to step in as editor. She’s held a few different roles at COLE and I have no doubt she’ll do great things with Cleaner.

Thanks to all of you for the past seven years. It’s been a pleasure telling your stories. I’ve enjoyed and appreciated all of it.

Enjoy this month’s issue.