Farewell and Thank You North Branford Patch Readers

Hello North Branford Patch readers, 

As Tuesday marks my last day as editor of North Branford Patch, I wanted to take a moment to say farewell and thank you. 

Since coming on as editor in March 2011, I have wrote countless stories on everything from town government to school events to police and fire department news. As memorable as some of those stories were, what stands out the most as I look back is not a particular story, but the people behind those stories.

I have had the pleasure of getting to know many people in town and they are truly what makes the North Branford and Northford community such a wonderful place. I have been touched by the countless accounts of neighbor helping neighbor – whether it's the North Branford cheerleaders raising money for Matt's Mission, which in turn, gives back to so many in town; the community banding together to help a family that lost their home to a fire; or a man choosing to donate his kidney to his daughter's best friend's father. These stories and so many more have been an inspiration and a true testament to the character of the residents of this town.

I have seen groups of teachers, staff and parents come together to put on amazing events at the schools, including Read Across America days, Invention Convention and the EcoFair to name only a few. I have had the privilege to be a part of the North Branford libraries' many activities for both children and adults and the staff's enthusiasm for their jobs is certainly contagious.

Small-town government was new to me when I started with Patch. From the staff at Town Hall to those at the North Branford Police Department, Park & Rec, Public Works, Senior Center, Board of Ed and more, thank you for helping me learn the ropes, for always answering my questions. You all work incredibly hard and are beyond dedicated to this town. 

Beyond the town employees, there are more volunteers than you know (though they can always use more!), who serve on the Town Council, on boards and commissions and help plan events like the PoCo Fest. Before I took this job, I had no idea just how many hours these volunteers dedicate to help make North Branford the best place it can be.

And of course, how can I talk about volunteers without mentioning the fire department? From the fire chief and fire marshal to each volunteer I met, everyone at the NBFD has always been so kind and welcoming. Of course, that's on top of being so giving of their time and being willing to voluntarily head into a burning home to protect the community. Thank you NBFD!

And what would North Branford Patch be without its readers. It has been amazing to see 'The Patch' grow and participation increase over the years. It has been my pleasure to get to know readers through blog posts and comments, emails, Facebook conversations and more.

While I may be moving on, Patch will still be here for you! You can still keep in touch with your neighbors by creating an event on our calendar, sharing an announcement or photo on our Boards or writing a blog post as one of North Branford's 'Local Voices.'

Again, thank you for all of your support over the past few years and thank you for letting me be a part of your stories. It has been my pleasure. 

~jenn