You're a Good Man Michael Hayes

A few years back I was sledding with my kids at Indian Springs Golf Course. In the distance, I could see someone approaching. Michael Hayes introduced himself to me as a new reporter for something called Patch. I guess that in a small town way, he was doing something that was considered newsworthy. The storm had just laid down a beautiful blanket of fresh snow. It was a picturesque scene that one often takes a mental snap shot of. He pulled out a little camera and snapped a picture of us sledding. We exchanged some friendly words and he was on his way. In that moment, I was introduced to news-photography.

I went home and looked up the start-up news site I had just heard about. There was an image of my son ripping down the hill on his sled. For someone who takes many local pictures, I was amazed at how these local scenes could so easily be shared on this new platform. I was intrigued by how this reporter was so willing to connect with people and how functional Patch seemed to be. 

Soon after we would connect again over a cup of hot chocolate talking about how I could contribute to this new virtual paper. Just beginning my photography business, I thought the exposure could be a good idea. Michael had opened a door for me. I started sharing my blog on Patch, but then something happened. I would play sidekick on many of the events he was covering to capture the visual end of the stories he was writing. He would focus on the facts, I would focus on the faces. Stories would come to life and the local people we covered were shown in a new light. We were somehow connecting people, sharing the small details of our community on a larger stage. Many stories we have seen on Patch have stayed with me, and the many people we have written and photographed, have become real friends. 

There are three important things to me in life: family, having a passion that drives you to find success and the community that we're all responsible for. Since the day I met Michael on that snow covered hill, he embodied these sentiments perfectly. He is the finest reporter this town has seen and we should all be thankful for it. Not one of his stories was written haplessly. He got his facts straight, took the risk when he thought necessary and worked for the better of this community.

Michael, while I have no ceremonious key to the towns of Durham and Middlefield to award you, there is no doubt you opened doors for everyone you have met. We should feel fortunate because in fact, you are the key that was awarded to our community.  Our community is better because you cared and I know well that it took a 24 hour, 7 day work-week to achieve this.   

Michael, go on proudly with this merit and realize that covering this little community may someday be one of your finest memories. Because you were so willing, we are all more able. Good luck my friend, your future is bright.