Editor's Notebook: Patch Celebrates Its 100th Site Launch

Tuesday marks the launch of Patch.com's 100th site, and I have a special reason to celebrate: Each and every one of my readers have made Culver City Patch's first couple of months a wonderful experience.

To those who don't know much about Patch, the hyperlocal news venture was founded in New York in 2008 and launched its first sites simultaneously in Maplewood, South Orange and Millburn-Short Hills, NJ, in February 2009. We are now in nine states and have posted more than 55,000 articles and nearly 1 million photos.

Because my readers and special sources have helped me dig into tougher and more controversial topics—in addition to being able to taste more of Culver City's food and arts and culture—I have many pleasant memories and look forward to doing more in Culver City. To commemorate the 100th site launch, I'm joining my fellow Patch editors as a volunteer in the community; I'll be at the Culver City Julian Dixon Library today.

In the meantime, here is a snapshot of my favorite stories from the first couple of months in Culver City:

Dance your cares away: Your Neighborhood Studio, now in the space formerly run by Debbie Allen, is the hot destination for those looking to have fun and burn some calories. I frequent this Culver City gem at least once a week. 

Crunching the numbers: This budget story about the Culver City Unified School District was my first introduction to our hardworking and wonderful board of education.

Flying for the first time: Nathalie Gaulthier and her talented group of coaches at Le Studio had me dangling by my knees on a hoop 12 feet in the air.

Happy holiday: The 45th annual Fourth of July celebration reminded me of why people love this city so much.

A celebration: Thank you to the Haro Gallery, which made our launch party beautiful.

Construction woes: West Los Angeles College's development project—and the ensuing contention in the neighborhood—allowed me to meet many community members and observe the way Culver City participates in the democratic process.

Click on the photos on the right to get a recap of my favorite Culver City moments.