It’s hard to believe it’s been a year.

A lot of work goes into covering the third-largest city in the Tampa Bay area. The capital of Pinellas County.

I am proud of the work I have done and the people in the community I have met. There are many names, faces, emails and phone calls. Thank you for all of the conversations, replies and calls back.

If we have not yet met, please drop me an email or give me a call. Hopefully we will soon. 

Over the last year, we have published more than 2,300 articles. That comes down to about six each day. That’s a lot of writing. Some of the most memorable stories over the past year include:

• Meeting Carol Korotkow, who fought City Hall over her use of synthetic grass in her front yard.

• Promoting our Local Voices platform, which has helped the Clearwater Neighborhoods Coaltion, Pinellas County Extension and other members of the community share their thoughts on important issues. 

• Getting to share some of the beauty of the area through the Sunday Sunset feature each week. Of course, that could not be a success without the help of readers who have shared their views, too. 

It is a humbling and gratifying experience every day. I look forward to continuing the efforts of being a conversation and community hub online for Clearwater.

And to another 2,300 stories.

Join Us for Free Birthday Tacos at Frenchy's Cafe

Help us celebrate Clearwater Patch's first birthday tonight at the original Frenchy's Cafe, 41 Baymont St. in Clearwater Beach. The party is from 5:30-7 p.m., and Patch will provide free fish tacos and nonalcoholic drinks for the public until they run out.

Please come by and say hello, and we'll send you home with some Patch goodies!