Change is Coming to Norristown Patch

I can honestly say that my time at Patch has been the proudest and most exciting of my entire journalism career, but it's time I moved on.

Today is my last day as editor for Norristown Patch.

I'm sure it won't surprise any of my regular readers and contributors to learn that this job is stressful. It requires, dedication, time, patience and some very thick skin that few other jobs will ever call for. That said, I wouldn't trade my time here for anything. The past few years have been incredibly rewarding.

I honestly believe that I've served Norristown in an important function – keeping it informed of what's going on in the community. I know there are always other sources for news, but with Patch, I tried to be more responsive and more of a partner to my readers than other traditional news outlets. I realize that was a new thing for many people (myself included) and it didn't always make everyone happy. If I've learned one thing in my time here at Patch, it's that you can't make the whole world love you. There will always be people who don't like you, don't like what you're doing and will say horrible things about you. My advice is this – if you believe in what you're doing, don't stop. Listen to advice and take suggestions, but be the captain of your own destiny. You be the leader.

Norristown Patch's new editor, Keith Heffintrayer, is no stranger to our community, having covered it with Patch before (Building Evacuated Due To Main Street Fire, No Charges To Be Filed In West Norriton Standoff, Norristown Renews Contract With 911 Safety Equipment). He's most recently been the editor of Pottstown Patch and Ambler Patch and I'm sure he'll bring the same dedication and professionalism to covering the Norristown area for all of you.

Patch is a great tool that the community can use to stay informed and let neighbors know what's going on. I couldn't have done any of this without tremendous support and help from my readers and contributors. I hope those of you who've been part of Patch these last few years will continue to stay involved and help grow this community asset. Patch is nothing without engaged readers, and Norristown Patch has some of the best in the country.

Thank you all for your support and patronage over the years. If you have questions or want to learn more about becoming part of Patch, call your new editor, Keith, at 215-284-3903 or write him at keith.heffintrayer@patch.com.