Eldersburg Patch Editor Says Goodbye

Dear Eldersburg and Sykesville residents, 

Today will be my last day as the editor of Eldersburg Patch. It has been nearly 19 months since a group of Patch editors gathered at to launch the site, and since then it's been an amazing journey getting to know everyone in the community over time.

I'm moving on to the next step in my career but I am grateful to have had the opportunity to cover such a wonderful community. 

I grew up in nearby Ellicott City, a geeky homeschooled ballerina with a passion for journalism and I am very grateful that I was able to cover and grow in my career in such a great slice of Maryland. 

I want to make sure I thank each and everyone of you who offered article suggestions, stopped to talk to me when I walked up to you randomly asking for your opinion, commented on a story, voted in our polls, and signed up to receive our newsletter. 

Every Eldersburg Patch reader is appreciated, and I look forward to continue to read your feedback and input on the site, because after living on the site for more than a year and a half, I will definitely have a habit of becoming a daily reader.

I'd also like to send out a special thank you to all of the talented freelancers, Patch coworkers, and my regional editor Danna Walker who have helped make this site what it is today.

I have been in the community that have made writing and editing stories for Eldersburg Patch .

I have also witnessed so much change in the area since the site launched. From the closings at the Carrolltown Center, to congressional redistricting, to numerous new buildings and businesses. 

While I've been here, I've also witnessed the area win several awards and recognitions, ranging from , and Sykesville being recognized not only as a great place to raise children but as a Maryland Main Street as well. Eldersburg was also recognized as one of the "least walkable" areas in the state. But really, who thought it was walkable to begin with? 

I am also grateful for what I was able to experience while I was here including , my first experience in a prison for a great charity project, the ceremony to swear in the Sykesville Town Crier (which was loud but something everyone should experience), my , and many more great memories.

The site isn't going anywhere, so make sure you continue to send story ideas and tips. Please direct any questions or concerns to Regional Editor Danna Walker at Danna@patch.com. 

Again, thank you so very much for your time, your wonderful warm welcoming and for being devoted readers of Eldersburg Patch! 

Sincerely, 

Valerie