Times Editor Mike Scharnow announced he is leaving the paper at the end of the year to pursue a career change.

Scharnow has been with the newspaper for 32 years and served as its editor since 1994.

“I know this is going to come as a shock to many people,” Scharnow said.

“More than three decades with one employer is a true rarity these days.

“I’m not getting any younger, and I thought this would be a good time to make a career switch.”

Scharnow, 54, plans to become a financial advisor with Thrivent Financial and remain active in Fountain Hills with his volunteer efforts and business relationships.

“I’m not going anywhere,” Scharnow said. “Maybe I won’t have my picture in the paper as much, but that’s OK.”

Times Publisher L. Alan Cruikshank said he was surprised by Scharnow’s resignation but reluctantly accepted it.

“I appreciate him sticking around the next two months as we work through this transition,” Cruikshank said.

“Mike and I have worked side by side for 32 years, so it’s going to be different to come into the office in January and not have him here.

“I wish him well in his new business endeavor.”

Scharnow said he plans to remain active with his volunteer organizations as he begins training and licensing procedures with Thrivent Financial, a national not-for-profit financial services organization.

He is current president of the Noon Kiwanis Club, sits on the board of directors of the Fountain Hills Drug Coalition and is an elder at Christ’s Church.

“It’s difficult to describe all the incredible experiences I’ve had the past 32 years of covering the news in Fountain Hills,” Scharnow added.

“Look for a column or two in December as I begin this new adventure and say good-bye to the first job I had out of college.”