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

Who would've ever thought 100 could feel so good? Today marks the launch of the hundredth Patch site in the country and since we're a sentimental bunch here at Patch, please take a moment to raise your glasses with us.

It's no secret the world of journalism is rapidly changing. Newspapers are shuttering, cutting staffs and budgets just to stay afloat. And while the news media institutions of the old world struggle to tread water, Patch has turned the paradigm of community journalism on its head. 

Founded in 2008, Patch now exists in nine states across the country. Since the first site launched, we have collectively produced more than 55,000 articles and nearly 1 million photos. As we continue to expand, our reporting is only getting stronger and more engaging. 

We pride ourselves in being highly involved with the communities we report on. Furthermore, we've effectively leveled the playing field for all residents of the communities to get involved. Patch sites offer all interested parties a forum to have their voice heard and a viable means to get involved in the community.

Here in New Canaan, we've done just that. Founded by Amy Jeffries on Aug. 3, 2009, New Canaan Patch was the sixth Patch site and has since blossomed into one of the largest news sources for New Canaan residents. Our news is undoubtedly the most timely in the community, offering real time reporting on important events, meetings, emergencies and all things in between.

New Canaan Patch thanks you for welcoming us to town.  We appreciate the access you've given us and the enthusiasm with which you've embraced our site. Since our launch, we've played a key role in many important discussions, generating articles such as:

• Our coverage of President Obama's speech to New Canaan students first established us as a credible and important news source in the community, as we were the first to report the story;
• The developing story of Waveny Care's plan to create a continuing care retirement community (CCRC), which continues to be a controversial issue in town; 
• a quintessential example of how Patch has used multimedia and technology to engage our audience and be an interactive site;
• Timely, up-to-the-minute reporting on storm damage in March and July, providing thorough reports on road closures, fallen trees, issues with storm response and other pertinent information.

Needless to say, we're thrilled to be part of the fabric of New Canaan and we're serious about becoming a part of every resident's daily routine. And remember, just because we've been around for more than a year, that doesn't mean we're perfect. We know we still have a lot to learn and for that reason, we always encourage all residents to reach out and tell us how we can make improvements! If you have suggestions, please e-mail sheryl.shaker@patch.com.

So as we mark this milestone in Patch history, we ask that you join us in a toast to Patch: Here's to another 100!