From the Editor's Desk

Today's column is a bitter-sweet one. I get to announce that I have the opportunity to work on a new Patch project, but it means that I'll be spending a lot of time in the Valley. While it is an honor to be asked to take on the project and I'll enjoy its challenges, the bitter part is that it will be taking me away from Moorpark.

Beginning Tuesday, interim editor will take over stewardship of Moorpark Patch. Mira has been a long-time contributor and sometimes stand-in editor for the Agoura Hills and Calabasas Patch sites. 

I'll still be around and helping out. You might even see my byline on some articles here and there for a while, but Mira will be the go-to person. I'll be passing along press releases and such that I get, but if you have a news tip, article idea, need help figuring out how to post an announcement or calendar item on the site or realize there's been a typo, Mira's your gal. You can write to her directly at mirarev@gmail.com.

Before moving here to launch Moorpark Patch a year and a half ago, I was living on the west side of the county and Moorpark was the place I passed through while taking the "back way" to various places. I only really knew the college, High Street and that there is an In 'n Out right off the freeway.

I didn't yet know all the beautiful parks in the city. Or that the weather was better than our neighbors. I didn't know about the events planned by the churches, all the activities going on at the Active Adult Center that I've (almost) wished I was old enough to take part in.

And, I didn't know how great the people are. I've been so impressed with the dedication of volunteers in the Rotary and Kiwanis clubs, the arts and the youth sports organizations. I didn't realize how accessible the city council members and mayor are to residents or how helpful the city staff is.

But mostly, I had no idea that I'd make so many friends. Luckily, just because I'm leaving doesn't have to mean I leave the friendships behind. My email address will remain Rebecca.Whitnall@Patch.com. I hope you'll feel free to use it! Also, I'll still be out and about in town—at least for a whie—so hopefully I'll see many of you at my usual haunts.