Out and About

BY KELLY MICHAUD, EDITOR

Time for a change

     Four years ago I moved to Rockland, two weeks out of college, to start a new phase in my life. I came here to begin my career at a new paper called Steppin’ Out and to see where my first “real-world” job would take me.

     I didn’t expect to stay longer than two years, actually. But that two years turned to three, and before I knew it, I was hitting my fourth anniversary.

     In that time, I feel like I have covered almost everything someone can do in the Midcoast, as well as some of the Downeast region. I’ve taken chances and had experiences I never thought I would have. I tried rock climbing, took flying lessons, went lobstering, explored Monhegan and Islesboro, was flipped upside down in a kayak, trekked through the woods with a game warden, watched candles being made, tasted several Maine brews and wines, attempted snowboarding (I think my tailbone is still bruised), went ice fishing, tapped trees for syrup, got up close and personal with lambs and calves, hit the high seas on a windjammer, fell in love with the game of bingo -- and so much more.

     It really has been an amazing job and a fun time. And along the way, I have met wonderful people whose talents still astound me.

     There is so much to do and enjoy in this area. Every year, I’ve tried to discover something new. I may even hop on the back of a Harley and learn to ride a motorcycle or attempt sky diving -- the possibilities are endless, it seems.

     I have loved creating this paper each week and sharing my experiences and the stories of others with readers.

     But, like many things in life, there is change.

     This issue will be the final print edition of Steppin’ Out. As we mark four years, we also mark an evolution for the paper. Don’t worry -- it’s not going away entirely, but it is changing.

     For the next several weeks, an updated calendar, Dan Dunkle’s Down in Front movie reviews and all of our archived issues will be available online at www.SteppinOutMaine.com.

     In July, Courier Publications will launch a new Web site of which Steppin’ Out will be a part. The calendar, Dan’s reviews, upcoming events and some fun features will be found here. The site also will be where you can get news from all of Courier’s papers, purchase photos, as well as find home and garden ideas, cooking tips, health information and more. We’ll be revealing more details in our other Courier newspapers -- stay tuned!

     When I graduated from college, it was hard to see that chapter of my life end. Four years later, it is sad that this chapter is now ending. But I’m excited to learn more and experience what the future holds -- see you online!