When I first came on board with the Granite Bay View, I had only lived in California for about six months. A Midwestern girl, I was still getting used to the traffic and, quite frankly, did not even know where Granite Bay was.

Like most Sacramento residents, I had heard the rumors. Granite Bay was where the rich and snooty people lived. I worried that I would not fit in with the "rich and famous."

Four years and 48 issues later, I must say that I know the Granite Bay community better than I know the community in which I live (Citrus Heights). And I have to say that although, yes, there is money in Granite Bay, the people do not deserve their reputation.

I have never met a more gracious and giving community. I have been in large homes and small and everyone (with the exception of a few) I have met has been down to earth and humble. From artists to business owners to CEOs, each has been open and welcoming when I have met them.

In four years, I feel privileged and honored to have been able to tell your stories, publicize your events and even make a few friends along the way. I have learned that Granite Bay is a diverse community, fiercely devoted to helping others and bettering their community - whether through their church or community service organization or just on their own.

Now, it is time for me to move on. This month, I am moving to Iowa to pursue other opportunities and to move closer to family.

Susan Belknap, the editor of the Roseville Press-Tribune (and a Granite Bay resident), will take over my duties and you will see many of the same names and faces among these pages. Susan can be reached at susanb@goldcountrymedia.-com or 774-7955.

It has been my privilege to get to know and serve you these past four years. I hope that you will guide Susan in this new role and welcome her as much as you have welcomed me.

Thanks for the memories.