When I left Fenton in 2008, I didn’t think my career path would lead to my return.

But late in 2010, I heard about this company called Patch, which just happened to be planning to launch a site in Fenton. I liked everything I heard, packed up and started trying to explain a site that no one in town had ever heard of.

In a little more than two years, Patch has become an online community center with news, events, announcements, sharing of photos, information, answers, questions and plenty of conversation. I learned more about the community I grew up in during those two years than the first 25 I spent living here. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed working with some many great people in the community and have been in awe of all the support I received.

But now it’s time to move on.

I have accepted a new position with Patch, serving as a community engagement specialist for a group of Oakland County sites. Friday will be my last day as the Fenton Patch editor.

But don’t worry as the site will fall in capable hands and remain a valuable community resource. You can contact Leslie Ellis at 248-303-4434 or Leslie.Ellis@patch.com. She will be working with the community and depending on you for sharing information and conversation that you believe is important.

I wanted to thank everyone who has helped make Fenton Patch successful. I’ll never forget wandering South Leroy Street during Jinglefest 2010 and trying to explain to everyone what Fenton Patch was. I enjoyed helping build Fenton Patch with you. With the help of Local Voices writers, readers commenting and sharing news tips, residents sharing photos and opinions and the support from the community Fenton Patch became a part of the town. It’s been a blast. And I plan to continue to contribute, not just as a Patch employee, but a community member. I hope you, too, continue to expand what we've built.

So thank you Fenton, for everything.

 Jason Alexander