Community Corner

Editor's Note: Goodbye to Patch

A sincere 'thank you' to the Mahwah community.

To the many members of the Mahwah community that I have come to know over the past four years -- It is with bittersweet feelings that I write to tell you that Friday is my last day as an editor at Patch.

While I am excited to pursue some different opportunities, I am also certain that there are so many things that I will miss about working in this community.

When I was hired to launch the Mahwah Patch in 2010, I started out with the intention of helping build a website that could add to the community by bringing residents local news, and creating an online space where people could get together to discuss important local issues. What I didn't realize at the time was the profound impact doing that would have on me.

Some residents were skeptical of the new 'hyperlocal' idea. Many of you welcomed me with open arms.

It wasn't long before I started to feel like a member of the community. I'd have lunch at a local restaurant and other diners would stop to say 'hi!' Or, I'd be covering a town meeting or event, and be chatting with residents about everything from the future of Mahwah to a good recipe for dinner tomorrow night.

Soon, skeptics and supporters alike were making me feel at home here.

Since Patch started, you have welcomed me into your homes, and into your lives. I have gotten the opportunity to grow as a reporter and editor. I have learned how to truly care about the place I am covering, and I have the residents of Mahwah to thank for that.

I am honored and humbled to have had the opportunity to tell your stories over the past four years, and I hope that I have done them justice.

The good news is that I leave you in good hands! Patch's new editor is already in place, and I have no doubt that the community will welcome her just as it welcomed me. 

As for me, I leave with only the fondest memories of Mahwah, and thank you all for giving me such a meaningful experience here.

- Jessica Mazzola, Mahwah Patch Editor 


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