Welcome to Burnsville Patch

Hi friends!

My name is Clare Kennedy. In just a few short weeks, I will take over as the local editor of your Burnsville Patch, an online destination that will keep you connected with local news, sports and other Burnsville exclusives that you won't be able to find anywhere else.

I grew up in Tampa, Florida, where my family still lives. I moved to Minnesota in 2003 to attend St. Olaf College in Northfield. During college, I worked for newspapers in Florida and Wyoming.

I graduated from St. Olaf in 2007. After a brief stay in Florida, I came back to Minnesota, a state I now call home. For the past three years, I've worked as a reporter at the People's Press, a daily newspaper in Owatonna. In Owatonna, I covered all sorts of stories—city council meetings, fires, a murder trial and even a traveling freak show, just to name a few.

It was a great run, but I can't wait to begin work at the Burnsville Patch. I am excited to bring you interesting stories about your neighbors and friends, and to hear what's going on in your neighborhood. If there is something that keeps you up at night, I'd like to hear about that issue, too.

At Burnsville Patch, you'll find new information about the community every day. To keep up on all the latest, you will be able to follow me on Twitter and Facebook. This site features a business directory to help you find just what you are looking for. Check out the calendar to find places to go and things to do.

If you know of an event, but don't see it listed, we invite you to add it. Since this is your website, feel free to upload pictures of your child's latest game, comment on stories, even send updates on what your Neighborhood Watch group is up to. It's all important and it's what makes this community unique.

At Patch, we strongly believe in the importance of volunteering. There are a number of organizations in Burnsville that need your help. Check out the volunteer listings to find out how to lend a hand.

I look forward to hearing from you and invite you to reach out to me with your thoughts and suggestions. I can't wait to meet you.