Saying Goodbye to Shrewsbury Patch

I am sad to announce that today is my last day at Shrewsbury Patch. Not only has it been an amazing experience to work for a cutting-edge, online media company, but the opportunity to cover my town where I live has been an experience I’ll never forget.

So, in true Patch-style, I am going to write the 5 things I’m going to miss about covering Shrewsbury:

1. The school and town employees and officials not only welcomed me with open arms, but it is also apparent that they care about the community they work for and are always willing to help and solve problems as best as they can.
2. The residents of Shrewsbury not only make our town a community, but they are also passionate and willing to step in to help, volunteer or even challenge something in the hopes of making our community better. . When residents heard about this, they pulled together to replace it and by the fall, there will be a walk with signs around the pond for all the town to enjoy.
3. I grew up in a community in Connecticut that is very similar to Shrewsbury with the same mix of local and national businesses. No matter the business in town, the employees, managers and owners have also welcomed Patch with open arms and embraced our philosophy of getting involved in community journalism.
4. I was lucky enough to meet many children in Shrewsbury through features and events in the town. And just yesterday I was asked to speak at the Trailblazers camp at the high school where I met about 30 students who were learning about leadership skills. Not only did they ask honest questions, but each student was respectful and professional. They are just an example of the children that I have met throughout the town that have been thoughtful, respectful and not afraid to ask questions. Teachers and parents in town should be proud of how they are raising our children.
5. And last, but certainly not least, I would like to personally thank all those who have contributed to Shrewsbury Patch since we started in 2010. From the writers and bloggers to the town officials, volunteers, business owners and readers who have uploaded comments, events, announcements, photos, videos and stories. Patch believes in the community getting involved in journalism and making their Patch a community resource. I hope all of you continue to have your voice heard on Shrewsbury Patch. It has been a pleasure working with all of you through the years.

As I leave Patch, I would like to thank you all for a great two years. I still live in town, so I’m sure I’ll see you around.