Hi Grafton, I'm Your New Editor

Hey, Grafton folks. 

I'm your new editor here on Patch and just wanted to give you a quick introduction. 

I've been an editor at Patch since November, 2010, when I launched Northborough Patch. Earlier this year, I also took Shrewsbury Patch under my wing. I am now the editor for Shrewsbury and Grafton Patches. Got that straight? 

But here's what led me there. 

I grew up in Leicester (Massachusetts, not England), and graduated with an English/Professional Writing degree from Fitchburg State College in 1993. Out of college, I landed a small weekly music column called "The Beat Goes On" (yeah, I didn't name it) under the tutelage of editor Sandy Bowles, who is the former editor for Grafton Patch.

But my first "real" job was at Worcester Magazine, which I nabbed not long after. Spending days in the news room, where then the pages were still tacked to the light board in the production room, a typing position led to becoming a music column, and ultimately, A&E editor. As an editor and longtime freelancer, I have covered just about anything imaginable.  

And now, I'm covering Grafton. I'd love to hear from you with any story ideas, tips or suggestions for marinades. I can be reached at charlene.arsenault@patch.com. Bring it on!