Change is never fun. Change is often very hard. Change can be good. Change can bring forth new opportunities. 

We have all heard these phrases at least once in our lifetime. But if you are like me, you’re never quite sure how to take these words of support from others during difficult times of adjustment, because you’re unsure how to feel.

But one thing I do know for sure — change is inevitable.

I am certain you have heard by now about the acquisition of the former Stagnito group of food and beverage industry magazines by BNP Media. This purchase is bringing about the merger of Dairy Field with Dairy Foods — a strong marriage of two truly wonderful publications. But with mergers come modifications — of staff, position, form and function. That said, I will not be a part of the new publication.

I started on DF seven years ago. Some of you may remember I began my career as managing editor, was elevated to executive editor and then promoted to editor of this great magazine. With the birth of my son, I voluntarily stepped down from my position, and Jim Dudlicek — whom I hired as managing editor — became our amazing and vibrant editor who has taken Dairy Field to new editorial heights.

It has been an interesting and wonderful year for dairy. Our industry continues to make groundbreaking strides in light of opposition and high milk prices. American consumers are showing no signs of slowing down their purchases of dairy products. Whether it be a purchase in the realm of health and wellness, procurement of a prebiotic this or probiotic that, or taking possession of a new specialty cheese or delectable full-fat ice cream — dairy maintains a secure spot in the hearts and minds of us all.

I will deeply, deeply miss this magazine and my colleagues.

But I have had a good run, a good run indeed.