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

Every time a new Patch site launches—whether it be in California, New Jersey or anywhere in between—I take a moment to think about how glad I am to be covering Hoboken. And the same is true today, on the day of the launch of MorristownPatch, our 100th site. 

I still remember the day Hoboken Patch launched. It was January 14 of this year, and brutally cold. I had spent the three weeks before introducing myself to people—politicians, police, fire, etc.—and walking around town to familiarize myself with the Mile Square. At that point, I still didn't really know what I was getting myself into. 

Now, roughly seven months later, it seems silly that I once didn't know my way around Hoboken. It seems silly that I didn't know which council person represents which ward. And it seems silly that I didn't know the Cake Boss. (Buddy Valastro is pretty cool, but I don't even turn my head any more when I see him in the street). 

In seven months I feel that I have really become part of the community. I have interviewed people of all walks of life. From old-Hoboken to new-Hoboken and everything in between. And when people I don't know come up to me and say, "aren't you that Patch girl?" it makes me happy. (Yes, I am that Patch girl)

In seven months I have also learned a lot about this community, and continue to learn new things every day. And how could I not, in a town like Hoboken. So much is happening. From the ongoing stories about the municipal garage, to a fun week like the St. Ann's Feast, to the upcoming beginning of the school year and special elections in November. 

Becoming part of the community is exactly the goal of a site like Patch. Not only is this supposed to be an online newspaper where you can find your local news and events, but it's supposed to be a source for the community. A place where you can share your thoughts or air your grievances. I always welcome feedback, positive and negative. 

But, of course, an editor can't do this alone. I have to thank the people of Hoboken (for welcoming me to town, but also for actually reading the stories) and a great team of freelancers. 

This site is a team effort, and the plan is to only grow and get bigger in the future, very similar to Patch as a whole.  

I am proud of Patch, and its accomplishment of reaching 100 sites. The only thing to wish for right now, is that the Morristown editor will be known as "that Patch guy" in no time.