Goodbye: A Simple Word, A Heavy Heart

It's with heavy sigh that I let go of my final words ever to be written for the Port Washington-Saukville Patch.

Some may have heard the news, as I shared it on the Patch Facebook page last week, but I felt an official goodbye on the site was also in order. To get you all up-to-date, here's the lowdown: AOL has decided to pull the plug on Port Washington-Saukville Patch, as well as all the other Wisconsin sites. All Milwaukee area staff are being laid-off. The sites may stay live, but nobody remains after Tuesday (Oct. 15). 

Though I will no longer be able to put a full-time effort into covering your communities, knowing what I do now about Patch's end would not change my decision to move here three years ago. My husband and I have settled into a home we love, and take advantage of all the great things to do in Ozaukee County often. Patch opened that door for me, and I hope many readers can always remember the positive way Patch impacted their lives in the three years we were here — rather than forget and simply move on now that it's ended. The community helped us create something of value, and that can last as long as a memory.

So what's a former Patch Local Editor to do? I've partnered with a former co-worker to launch an online strategy firm for businesses, focusing on content creation and social media management. It's called Clever Dog Creative. The name is inspired by my wonderful pup Mara, and the concept of our business has evolved into what we hope will be a solid plan for our future. Feel free to get in touch with me if you're interested at lyssa@clvrdog.com. 

And don't hesitate to say, "Hi," if you notice me around town. I've got some new favorites in town — such as Twisted Willow and Coal Dock Park — as well as the old goodies — such as Tellos, Pasta Shoppe, Smith Brothers and many, many more — that I just can't resist the urge to visit and support.

Now, I exhale — and say, Goodbye Patch, goodbye.

And to my readers: until we meet again.