Dearest readers, it’s with mixed feelings, countless memories and boundless gratitude that I am leaving my full-time position at the Greenfield Recorder and moving back home to eastern Massachusetts.

On the surface, this difficult decision was professional in nature. My next chapter will involve working on the marketing team for the prestigious Shalin Liu Performance Center in the seaside town of Rockport — a dream opportunity for me as an avid musician and live music fan. This is to say that at its core, my next chapter has been brought about by an unwavering commitment to my heart, as has each chapter of my life thus far.

The two-and-a-half years I’ve spent with the Recorder has been no exception. In fact, it being my first full-time job after graduating from the University of Massachusetts Amherst has set the precedent for how I view my purpose here on Earth. I couldn’t be more thankful for having an opportunity in my early and mid-20s that put me in a position to immerse myself in something different every day. I leave this role having gained extensive knowledge in so many areas as I’ve listened, observed, researched and reported. As my dedication toward public service continues in any capacity, I’m positive that I can leverage what I’ve learned here to benefit the world around me in just as many ways.

Knowing I’ve played a part in nurturing this little corner of the world has been the best part of working as a reporter in an area that so values — and depends on — traditional newspaper journalism. I just hope you know that this has always been a two-way street. I’ve felt so welcome here in Franklin County — and in my beat of Montague, Gill and Erving in particular — due to the warmth shown to me by so many of you in our conversations. Thank you for inviting me into your hobbies, your homes and your hearts. Thank you, too, for trusting me as a bridge between them and the rest of the world.

My life will undoubtedly continue to be shaped in part by the time I’ve lived and worked here. Some of the relationships I’ve made here could very well last a lifetime, while others I’ve had less time to nurture continue to draw me in. For this reason, not only do I foresee my memories informing my future endeavors, but I intend to return to the Pioneer Valley with relative frequency. These returns may very well translate to continued contributions from me to the Recorder in a freelance capacity.

As Nov. 16 was my last day as a full-time staff writer, please send any news tips you might have ordinarily sent to me instead to Managing Editor Shelby Brock at news@recorder.com. She will continue to ensure coverage of important happenings in Montague, Gill and Erving.

Once again, thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for helping me learn the true meaning of investment. This experience has been a testament to how important it is to have a voice and use it well. You certainly haven’t heard the last of mine, and once a new reporter is hired to take my place, you can bet I’ll be listening for yours.

Reach Julian Mendoza at 413-930-4231 or jmendoza@recorder.com.