All good things must come to an end, at least that is what some would say.
Working at Patch as your local editor the past 21 months has been better than good. It's been great. But I am sad to announce the time has come to say goodbye as I prepare to embark on a new chapter in my life.
To build the East Hampton-Portland site from scratch to what it has become today has been fun and exciting, and there certainly has been no shortage of news. A duplex exploding in Portland, snow-packed roofs, Tropical Storm Irene, the October snowstorm, municipal elections, a town manager search, Welcome Home ceremonies, even budgets. The list goes on. We won’t forget anytime soon the Bevin Bell fire, and East Hampton has had more than its share of controversy surrounding the police department.
Getting to meet so many terrific people has been a reward unto itself. From local politicians to merchants, parents to school administrators and staff, I appreciate very much the time each of you gave and respect you showed. Also, whether it was someone I interviewed, a source, a commenter or contributor on the site, or someone who simply made the East Hampton-Portland Patch a destination, you each played a role in whatever success I achieved, and I can’t thank you enough.
I can’t possibly end this without a special thanks to our high school student-athletes. I tried to make high school sports an important part of the site and enjoyed every minute of it, even when it meant standing out in the cold. I was lucky though. Two state championship teams, several other teams that excelled and a football team that played its first varsity season. Unfortunately, I couldn’t cover every team equally and some not at all. There were many a night I went to bed regretting that. What I will miss most, though, is the friendship these kids showed me. It meant the world to me and I will forever be a Bellringer and Highlander. I'll leave you with the video above, which is one of my favorite memories of my time covering East Hampton and Portland.
Of course, you’re not going to be completely rid of me. I am an East Hampton resident and a frequent visitor to Portland. So, if you see me, say hi. Meantime, please continue supporting Patch. With your help, the East Hampton-Portland site will only get better. For now, your emails should be sent to ronald.derosa@patch.com.
Thanks again, everyone!
