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For the past couple of hours I've tried thinking of a way to start this farewell column. But I’m not sure what to say. So, like you've so gracefully done for the past two years, bear with me as I figure this out.
I’m guessing you’re thinking one of two things right now: either good riddance, or, what's the deal, Patch Guy? I’m hoping for the latter.
Friday will be my last day at Patch. I've decided to take another media opportunity, starting Monday. If you want to know more or to keep in touch, email brendankuty@gmail.com. If you want to chat one more time I'll also spend from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday at Frank's Pizzeria and 9 a.m. to noon Friday at Dunkin Donuts.
Now, how will my departure affect you? It shouldn't, really. Patch will continue to cover the borough. With council and Board of Education elections coming up, not to mention the start of the school year, Patch believes it's more important than ever that Hopatcong residents have a trusted news source and a place to share ideas and opinions.
And I agree with Patch. I never knew the borough was so bustling. There are plenty of myths about Hopatcong. That it's a boring place is among them. You just have to know where to look to find the crazy. That was something I didn’t know while growing up here.
Speaking of growth, Hopatcong has given me two opportunities at it. Considering Ghostbusters is still among my favorite movies and that I can't get my Chevy to pass inspection, we'll say the jury is still out on my maturity. But the growth I've felt as a journalist has been undeniable.
Before Patch I spent three years as a sports reporter, covering everything from girls lacrosse to the final game at the old Yankees Stadium to an arm-wrestling competition in the middle of an alcohol showcase … at age 20. But since joining the AOL-owned hyper-local news organization I've learned so much about almost everything—education reform, government spending, public records, the judicial system, crime, volunteerism, business. Too much to rattle off at once.
And a lot of it was because of you. You didn't know me. You didn't have to speak with me—just some guy with a notebook and a website you'd never heard of.
But you did. You gave me your time. If you're reading this, there's a good chance we've spoken before and even a decent chance I've quoted you. That's one of the best things about Patch: the community connection. I've gained so many friends since starting here in June 2010, since making that year's Hopatcong Days my first assignment.
Won't forget that one. The site had still yet to launch, but my boss at the time asked me to set up a table and pass out generic flyers detailing Patch's mission. If you wanted to know what Hopatcong.Patch.com was going to look like—because why would you take the word of some over-caffeinated stranger?—I had to pull out my laptop and show you Westfield Patch.
Still, some people didn't totally ignore me. Some even let me take their picture. And that welcome-you-in sentiment has been what I've felt in Hopatcong since that afternoon.
And I've seen that sense of community translate from borough streets and parks onto Hopatcong.Patch.com. Sure, almost everyone—even you—complains about the comments section, how users get nasty behind fake names for reasons ranging from absurd to understandable. But there have been many examples of the borough banding together around good causes on the site.
The three that stuck out to me: Hurricane Irene, Bill Connolly and when Hopatcong police dog Rosco died.
When the 2011 storm rocked the borough, I hit the streets, taking a ride with a pair of police officials to check out flooded areas, rushing to hardware and convenience stores to report what's left in stock, and camping out to provide minute-by-minute reports of the effects of the downpour. But you helped me, jumping into the comments section to say which areas were without electricity, where roads were closed or trees had fallen and to share tips on keeping safe.
You showed similar outpourings of support for Connolly, who worried people thought he was a serial killer for walking the borough streets, and Rosco, who served the Hopatcong police department his entire life.
It was during those moments I felt I had served a real purpose with Patch. Had made real connections with many of you. Had at least in a small way helped the place in which I grew.
And I believe I'm going to enjoy watching Hopatcong Patch grow with the rest of you.
Send news tips to to Regional Editor Mike Pignataro at mike@patch.com or Associate Regional Editor Rick Burchfield at rick@patch.com.
In This article
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Frank's Pizzeria
50 Hopatchung Rd, Hopatcong, NJ -
Dunkin' Donuts
42 Hopatchung Rd, Hopatcong, NJ -
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Hopatcong Borough Police Department
111 River Styx Rd, Hopatcong, NJ
dmt9972
10:23 pm on Tuesday, July 24, 2012
Wow....so sad! But good luck Brendan in your upcoming endeavor!!
Brendan Kuty
2:51 pm on Friday, July 27, 2012
dmt9972, Yeah, it's a little sad. I'll miss covering Hopatcong, and the people. Thank you so much.
Donna Collura
10:27 pm on Tuesday, July 24, 2012
Congratulations on your new job opportunity. It was my pleasure to read your website, as I've often sung your praises to my daughter and son-in-law Rick Burchfield. Job well done and you will be missed.
Mrs. Donna Collura
Heather Burchfield
8:38 am on Wednesday, July 25, 2012
I haven't posted a comment on Patch since my own farewell column almost a year ago to the day. but for you, Kuty, I am coming out of hibernation. You did a wonderful job capturing the spirit of Hopatcong and you were an amazing asset to Patch. Good luck at NJ.com and be sure to keep in touch. As Brian would say "Onward!"
Heather (Collura) Burchfield
Former Editor, Summit Patch
Brendan Kuty
2:56 pm on Friday, July 27, 2012
Mrs. Collura! I've heard a lot about you. And, actually, I think we met at your daughter's wedding. Either way, thank you so much for following from afar. I'm sure I'll see you around. And as for the one below this comment ... I guess I have no choice but to see you around. Kidding. Thank you so much. I'm honored to have awoken the hibernating bear. Looking forward to consuming a ridiculous amount of boneless wings with you tonight. Please don't force The Dominator to order a salad. I know the operation.
JenniferB
10:37 pm on Tuesday, July 24, 2012
So sad to see you go but totally understand. You are still more than welcomed to come to the dedication on Aug 5th. You've been great covering the community garden's progress since Alice first approached the council. You'll be missed. You've been such a familiar face at various events, meetings and what not.
Best of luck in your future!
Brendan Kuty
2:57 pm on Friday, July 27, 2012
JenniferB, it's been great getting to know you and getting the word out about the garden. I'd join, but I know my plot would end up a disgrace and I'd end up buying fresh plants and planting them to fake it and make it look like I took care of it. Thank you so much!
JenniferB
4:04 pm on Friday, July 27, 2012
lol, you have no idea how much I have learned from other gardeners this year. Believe it or not, Sharon has never grown veggies and you should see her plot now! It's awesome!
Aubry Bracco
10:38 pm on Tuesday, July 24, 2012
Best of luck, friend. You are one of a kind. We'll miss you. Lots of love and light from the Witch City.
Brendan Kuty
3:06 pm on Friday, July 27, 2012
No need to miss me. We'll be in touch. Even I if have to grow gills and follow the map on Enola's back to get at you.
John Celock
10:39 pm on Tuesday, July 24, 2012
Brendan,
I'll be honest, this is kinda tough to write. You've done an amazing job at Patch so it's tough to see you leave. But congratulations on the opportunity. I remember that day I interviewed you in the Westfield Starbucks and remember thinking "Oh god, please don't give him caffeine." At the same time I also realized pretty quickly that you'd be perfect for Patch. You've done an awesome job the entire time (and overcaffienated at the same time). Good luck, great job and keep in touch!
John
Molly M
12:31 am on Wednesday, July 25, 2012
I am cracking up at this comment! Brendan has been perfect in this role and I don't know how someone is going to properly follow in his footsteps, especially with the Facebook posts that are so full or energy and charm.
Good luck Brendan! Although I left Hopatcong late last year I still follow the page and your presence will be missed. I am sure you will be great in your next endeavor.
Brendan Kuty
3:08 pm on Friday, July 27, 2012
John, coming from you, that means a lot. Patch people revere you. To have your recommendation meant so much. Glad I was able to live up to it somewhat. I hope to cross your path, holding an energy drink, soon. Until then, we'll keep in touch.
Bonnie Anderson
10:39 pm on Tuesday, July 24, 2012
Thank you for all you did to launch Hopatcong Patch. I still remember that Hopatcong Days and I hope I encouraged you then. Good luck with your future endeavors.
Brendan Kuty
5:54 pm on Friday, July 27, 2012
Bonnie, you've always provided support and encouragement. And I can't thank you enough for both.
Betty Reid
10:52 pm on Tuesday, July 24, 2012
I will miss seeing you around town. Thank you for all the Girl Scout coverage. Good luck in your new endeavor.
Brendan Kuty
5:55 pm on Friday, July 27, 2012
Betty, I'll still be around town. Though it'll be a little less. Thank you so much for the well wishes. Best of luck with the Girls Scouts.
Brenda Breheny
10:57 pm on Tuesday, July 24, 2012
Brendan, you will be missed! We can't believe you are leaving Patch! You have done a great job covering all the stories (fact and fiction) in town, and we appreciate the honest news source. We wish you the best of luck in your journey's next step, and we hope that you keep in touch!
Brendan Kuty
5:57 pm on Friday, July 27, 2012
Brenda, thank you so much. It's been a pleasure covering your daughter and I'm pulling for her to win the Sussex County title. After the announcer asks why she thinks she should win, toss her a basketball, have her pull a crossover and it'll be over. Tell Paul I said thanks for everything, too. I'll see you around!
DavidGoGiants
11:06 pm on Tuesday, July 24, 2012
Good luck to you
Brendan Kuty
5:57 pm on Friday, July 27, 2012
DavidGoGiants, I hope I don't need it. But thanks you so much for the well wishes. Go Giants!
Erin
11:54 pm on Tuesday, July 24, 2012
Brendan I wish you the best of luck in whatever the future holds for you! Most mornings I didn't even get out of bed until I read the patch.....you have done a wonderful job over the past two years! Thanks for all the hard work and dedication!
Brendan Kuty
5:58 pm on Friday, July 27, 2012
Erin, most mornings I don't want to get out of bed! Thank you for keeping up with us. It's been a heck of a journey.
Kevin DeVine
5:47 am on Wednesday, July 25, 2012
Good luck! Time to move on and UP!
Brendan Kuty
5:59 pm on Friday, July 27, 2012
Kevin, thank you! Best of luck with the band! Had a lot of fun with you guys way back when.
Nicolas
5:55 am on Wednesday, July 25, 2012
I enjoyed your breaking stories and update. Good luck in your future endeavors.
Brendan Kuty
6:00 pm on Friday, July 27, 2012
Nicholas, from fires to car accidents to principal reshuffling, we definitely had enough breaking news. I don't think people realize how much goes down in Hopatcong. Thanks for keeping up with me. And thanks for the well wishes. Be well.
Hopatcongpop
6:12 am on Wednesday, July 25, 2012
Brendan, thank you for all the coverage of the Cub Scouts..Keep in touch. You have have done an awesome job covering Hopatcong in the past 2 years. I belive the 1st time Patch covered Pack 88 Cub Scouts was at the Time capsule for the scouts 100 anniversary. Thank you again!.. Keep in touch
Brendan Kuty
6:00 pm on Friday, July 27, 2012
I remember the time capsule! That was a serious dig project. Covering the Cub Scouts, and even speaking with a couple of troops about media, was a pleasure. Thanks for everything.
Lisa Crimando
6:38 am on Wednesday, July 25, 2012
I'm so sad! We've met only twice, once at Dunkin, once at the most recent Hopatcong Days, and both times I've gushed to you how much I love the Patch, your comments, your take on everything! Honestly, your words have given me a brand new take on Hopatcong, my hometown for 18 years now. In a place that so many people look negatively on, you always put on positive spin on our town. Helping us to see the good, the wacky, and making sure we don't miss a thing. I wish you much happiness in your next adventure. I would be lying if I said I wasn't worried about the future of our Hopatcong Patch now that you're leaving. I can only hope that our next editor will be as terrific as you! Much success to you! You've done a wonderful job here.
Brendan Kuty
6:02 pm on Friday, July 27, 2012
Lisa, so much to digest here! But, really, there's a lot to digest in Hopatcong. Even though it gets a bad rap sometimes, I think it's a heck of a place. I'm sure Hopatcong Patch will be fine. My bosses are smart enough to hire somebody who can handle the task that is Hopatcong. Thank you for wishing me well.
Carol Noyes
7:11 am on Wednesday, July 25, 2012
All the best in your new position, Brendan. Your new employer can't possibly know how lucky they are, but they'll have a good idea by the end of the day Monday...actually, probably by noon. You've done a superb job covering Hopatcong by bringing hometown news to your readers that we could not find in any other news source. Thank you.
Brendan Kuty
6:03 pm on Friday, July 27, 2012
Hey, it was my job! I loved what I did here. And I'm looking forward to reading Patch while I'm away. Thanks for the kind words. I'll put you through to the new employers and ask you to tell them to give me a raise ... immediately.
Joanne Flexser
7:24 am on Wednesday, July 25, 2012
Hopatcong Patch will continue, but it won't be the same without you. I have enjoyed watching you grow from a 7th grader into an adult. I hope that you will remember your roots here and come back and visit as you take wing to a bright future. I wish you all the best.
Brendan Kuty
6:04 pm on Friday, July 27, 2012
Joanne, I'm not going anywhere. My roots in Hopatcong are deep. All those friends I had in seventh grade are still my friends. Thanks for being part of my growth. I'm sure I'll see you around when a certain friend of ours makes it back from across the pond.
Christine Falconi
7:29 am on Wednesday, July 25, 2012
I have followed your stories for quite a long time and have enjoyed them very much, you will be missed especially since you are a true home town boy...Best of luck to you Brendan...I will really miss you sense of humor!
Brendan Kuty
6:05 pm on Friday, July 27, 2012
Christine, I'm not funny. I'm fully-looking. But, for real, thanks so much. Was the true hometown boy a compliment or a diss? Kidding! Thank you!
Mary Clare
7:51 am on Wednesday, July 25, 2012
Good Luck Brendan! You certainly will be missed!
Brendan Kuty
6:05 pm on Friday, July 27, 2012
Thank you, Mary. But I'll still be around. Can't leave my hometown just yet.
Michael Flippin
8:00 am on Wednesday, July 25, 2012
Brendan, Thanks for keeping the residents of Hopatcong informed. All the best in your future endeavors. Sorry your blue shirts didn't play for the Cup. Not really!!! All the best. Your replacement has a set of shoes to fill.
Brendan Kuty
6:06 pm on Friday, July 27, 2012
Michael, two words: Rick. Nash. Some more words: Thank you so much for the kind words. Enjoyed your comments.
Marlee Carrasquillo
8:15 am on Wednesday, July 25, 2012
Good luck Brendan....gonna miss you Holmes, how are they gonna replace such a crazy character and who am I gonna send all my pictures to now...lol
Brendan Kuty
6:07 pm on Friday, July 27, 2012
Marlee! I enjoyed our conversations as much as I didn't enjoy speling your name. Send everything to hopatcong@patch.com. Somebody will get them...I think.
Sue Hill
8:16 am on Wednesday, July 25, 2012
I gather from the comments I've been reading, that we feel the same way about Brendan. He has done such a great job and he has helped the community know what was happening day to day. I will miss him on the Patch and I know that he will do well wherever he goes. Congrats, Brendan!!!! Keep up the great work!
Brendan Kuty
6:08 pm on Friday, July 27, 2012
Sue, what can I tell you that I haven't already said. You've been a big influence on me. And you've helped me a lot while covering Hopatcong. Best of luck in your new role, too. We'll definitely keep in touch.
Jason Koestenblatt
8:24 am on Wednesday, July 25, 2012
From Quick Chek battles to leaps in the lake and every bear-in-a-basement in between, you've done it all in Da Cong, Kuty.
You launched an amazing site filled with every bit of information a resident could ask for. You dug deep when necessary, and treated your readers, sources and objects with the utmost respect.
Patch is losing, in my opinion, one of the best editors the company will ever know. Look up 'Patchy' in the dictionary, and there's Kuty's mug–half-grown beard and all.
Best of luck to you going forward buddy, and you will be sorely missed.
Jason Koestenblatt
Long Valley Patch
Brendan Kuty
12:01 am on Saturday, July 28, 2012
Well, Jason, they've officially gotten rid of me. My sign-in is gone. I've been erased. Anyway, I told you all you needed to hear earlier tonight. Thanks for everything. We'll keep in touch. Hey, know what's kind of cool? I'm pretty sure my "thank yous" from here on out will count toward the ghost editor's comment goals. Welcome, Rick!
Valerie Quinn
8:38 am on Wednesday, July 25, 2012
Brendan, I wish you the best of luck with your new job. My boys and I will miss seeing you at D&D and all over town. You ARE Hopatcong Patch! Your baby has grown into a great news outlet for the town of Hopatcong. Congratulations and Good Luck.
Brendan Kuty
12:03 am on Saturday, July 28, 2012
Valarie, I'll probably still be around town. Expecting to work around town here and there. And, nah, I'm not Hopatcong Patch. The site will remain. Thanks for sticking with us this whole time.
Roll Back Our Tax
9:07 am on Wednesday, July 25, 2012
You're going to pass up that Pulitzer Prize for investigative reporting and head over to NJ.com? You'll miss out on a great opportunity! Regardless, good luck!
Brendan Kuty
12:03 am on Saturday, July 28, 2012
Thanks, Randy, for the well wishes. Best of luck.
Karen Mc
9:07 am on Wednesday, July 25, 2012
Brendan, I remember first meeting you at the HS girl's soccer games, and then the boys football games, and then the basketball games, etc. Your passion for Hopatcong was evident then and still is today. in the past two yars, Patch has provided me more insight into Hopatcong than anything else ever did in the prior 18 years that I have resided here. Thanks for keeping us informed. Wishing you much success in your newest endeavor. - Karen Mc
Brendan Kuty
12:05 am on Saturday, July 28, 2012
Karen, I'm glad I was able to make a difference here and there. Sometimes it felt like some stories went unread. But other stories felt like they made an impact, especially when it came to storms and helping people during power outages. Anyway, I'm sorry I didn't make it to more high school sports over the last year. You know my first job was in sports. Best of luck, Karen, and I'm looking forward to seeing you around.
Kyra Kennaugh
9:20 am on Wednesday, July 25, 2012
My dear friend Kuty, It was definitely a sense of relief having the opportunity to come to a website and check in with the home town. Since my family still lives there I like to keep up with the good, the bad and the ugly of Hopatcong. Thank you for giving me a place to always come back home. I hope next time I don't catch you in DD as I'm on my way to the airport to fly back south. Good luck, congrats and take care. See you soon.
Brendan Kuty
12:06 am on Saturday, July 28, 2012
Kyra, that means a lot. I'm glad I was able to help from afar. Let me know next time you're back. That way I'll grab Dan and we'll actually hang for a little as opposed to catching each other in passing. Hope things are going well in Florida. And I hope you come back soon.
KSolimando
9:29 am on Wednesday, July 25, 2012
Brendan- Best of LUCK to you!! We will miss you! Who else would have come "Flocking" for a story!! You have provided a great service to our community! - The Solimando Family
Brendan Kuty
12:07 am on Saturday, July 28, 2012
KSolimando, thank you! Oh, man, I miss flocking. A couple of friends of mine still bring that up. I can't believe there's a video of me doing that on the Internet. Clearly I'm without shame. Either way, it was so much fun, and covering Hopatcong was a great time, too. Hope to see you around.
Jean Burk-Ujvary
9:41 am on Wednesday, July 25, 2012
Brendan best of luck in your new job. You turned me onto the Patch and I am not sure I could live without it now. The Breaking News alerts have been so helpful. I also enjoy all the things that I would not have know going on in town with out the Patch. Thank you for the story on Bill - I was able to give him a ride yesterday. Funny when he got in the car I said "Hi Bill, where do you need to go?" He told me and as I was driving he turned to me and said "Do I know you?" "I said nope, but I know you." He asked me how did I know him. My answer Brendan from the Patch told me about you, and for that I will always stop and give you a ride. You did a lot of good for our community. Thank you, job well done!
Brendan Kuty
12:09 am on Saturday, July 28, 2012
Jean, that's what one the best things I've heard in a while. Bill seems like such a good guy. He shouldn't get the rap he does. Either way, thanks for sending me some great photos way back, and for keeping up with us. Really, I'm bringing it up again, thanks so much for the word on Bill. That was my goal.
Donna Luciani
9:58 am on Wednesday, July 25, 2012
Good Luck in your new position. We will miss you here on the Patch
Brendan Kuty
12:09 am on Saturday, July 28, 2012
Donna, thank you so much. I'll miss covering you guys. Hope the ceremony goes well in September. I'm sure Patch will want to reflect it.
anna
10:15 am on Wednesday, July 25, 2012
i will miss seeing u around brendon. thanks so much for covering hopatcong!! i know you'll do great in your new job
Brendan Kuty
12:10 am on Saturday, July 28, 2012
Anna, I hope you're right. New ventures, while exciting, are a little scary. Though I think I'll be OK. Thanks so much.
Jessica
10:23 am on Wednesday, July 25, 2012
Brendan I am sorry that I never had the opportunity to meet you but I read the patch every day, several times a day. It's my most used book mark. I feel like I got to to know you through your writing and you will be missed. I am not sure anyone can replace your enthusiasm for the happenings in Hopatcong. I wish you the best in your new career! I am sure you will succeed in anything you do. Thank you again for keeping us informed. Best Wishes, Jessica Peake
Brendan Kuty
12:12 am on Saturday, July 28, 2012
Jessica, yeah, it's a shame. I remember your name via the comments section. I'm glad to hear maybe we got to know each other through the site. I'm sure the next person will show a level of enthusiasm that matches what's necessary to cover Hopatcong. Maybe mine went a little overboard here and there. Thank so much, Jessica.
Tammy
10:37 am on Wednesday, July 25, 2012
Best of luck to you Brendan!!! You will be missed!!! :)
Brendan Kuty
12:13 am on Saturday, July 28, 2012
Tammy, while I'm leaving Patch, I ain't going nowhere. Thank you so much.
Gina Buongiorno
10:53 am on Wednesday, July 25, 2012
I've always said this...Hopatcong kids are pretty special. Not just because I'm one myself (I grew up here and bought a house here), but because I see all the amazing things my friends and siblings of friends are doing. For all the commentary I've heard throughout my life about this town being boring, having a bad school system, not being refined, etc, etc (you heard it all, too, I'm sure) its filled with interesting things and more importantly, interesting and caring people.
You represent yet one more Hopatcong success story. Keep up the good work and keep us proud!
Brendan Kuty
12:14 am on Saturday, July 28, 2012
Gina, agreed. The borough—and the school system—is what you make it. While I'm doing so well so far, I hope someday to be a real Hopatcong success story. Thanks so much.
Michael Flinchum
12:06 pm on Wednesday, July 25, 2012
Best of luck Brendan. Thank you for all your interest in Dylan's story & for your article on our 5K. Keep in touch
Brendan Kuty
12:15 am on Saturday, July 28, 2012
Michael, talking to you and your wife about Dylan. He's a great kid. You've got a great family. It was my pleasure. I hope next year's 5K is bigger and even better.
Jule girman
1:53 pm on Wednesday, July 25, 2012
Brendon, you've been terrific covering Hopatcong and I'm sure you will be a great success wherever you go and whatever you do. You're just that kind of guy! Thanks for all your good work and Hopatcong will miss you. You make us proud!
Brendan Kuty
12:16 am on Saturday, July 28, 2012
Jule, thanks so much. Covering Hopatcong has been one of the best experiences of my life. As you can tell, since I can't seem to leave the site, even after I've been removed from it. I'm going to miss you guys. Best of luck.
lakes
2:12 pm on Wednesday, July 25, 2012
Best of luck. Now take that Chevy over to Affordable Automotive so you can pass inspection. After all they are the only Automotive Shop I see advertising on the Hopatcong Patch and we all like to support local business when we can.
LakeGirl83
5:42 pm on Wednesday, July 25, 2012
nah, take it to Hayde's Auto instead.
Brendan Kuty
12:17 am on Saturday, July 28, 2012
I'm sure I couldn't do bad at either spot—Hayde's or Affordable.
Willa Scantlebury
4:41 pm on Wednesday, July 25, 2012
Your shoes will be hard to fill. I hope the new ones fit just right!
Brendan Kuty
12:18 am on Saturday, July 28, 2012
Willa, what can I say? You're awesome. You've always been a breath of fresh air, whether just around town or at the recreation commission. Thanks for all your great photos over the last couple of years, too. I'm sure I'll see you around.
Lynn LoPorto
4:52 pm on Wednesday, July 25, 2012
So sorry to hear about your departure with the Patch. You will surely be missed by all. Best of Luck to you on your newest endeavor! I am sure you will be successful in everything you do! Thank you and a job well done!
Brendan Kuty
12:18 am on Saturday, July 28, 2012
Lynn, thank you! I hope you're right. And I hope Carmen keeps kicking butt on the screen. And on the football field.
judi
5:21 pm on Wednesday, July 25, 2012
Sorry to say I have never read your site--I am a Long Valley Patch reader-( I am Jasons mom) Jason has always told me that he thinks you are one of the better Patch editors,,,of course I am a little bias :):)....Just wanted to wish you the best of luck on you new journey--Good Luck--Judi k
Brendan Kuty
12:19 am on Saturday, July 28, 2012
Judi, you've raised a hell of a son. He's been my right-hand man since Day 1. I couldn't have done my job without him. Thanks so much for the well wishes.
Michelle Mowad
7:20 pm on Wednesday, July 25, 2012
Good luck!
Brendan Kuty
12:19 am on Saturday, July 28, 2012
Thanks, Michelle. Spam my email and it's going down.
Rich Smith
8:35 pm on Wednesday, July 25, 2012
Brendan,
Being the first at anything is always the hardest job and you got Patch started off on the right foot and have kept it there. Local news, like local politics, affects people more directly than national ( and visa versa) yet there was no “small town coverage.” This is the void that you have filled and, like it or not, we need to know. I don’t like hearing of all the drug problems in town, or the conflicts at the council and Board of Ed. But we are always better for the knowledge. These issues were always lost in the state and national coverage. You have also brought much pride to our community with your coverage of our youth, police and fire activities. And, of course, Rosco. Although the Patch reader comments are anything but neutral you yourself have conducted your reports in the fair manner that is, or should be, the hallmark of your profession. I wish you all the best in any endeavor you peruse.
Brendan Kuty
12:21 am on Saturday, July 28, 2012
Rich, you've always kind of been the voice of reason in many of the comments sections on Patch. You've also been a pleasure to see each day in Hopatcong. I think you told me you're heading on vacation. I hope it's great, and I hope to see you around. Thanks for everything.
Lillian Lundy
11:12 pm on Wednesday, July 25, 2012
Brendan: I have truly enjoyed your coverage of the Borough for the past 2 years. The best of luck and success in your new endeavors. You will certainly be missed!
Brendan Kuty
12:22 am on Saturday, July 28, 2012
Lillian, thank you! I think you're related to Kevin. Tell him I said thanks for everything, too!
Mike T Sr
6:59 am on Thursday, July 26, 2012
Great job Brendan, good luck and success for the future. A pleasure knowing you.
Brendan Kuty
12:23 am on Saturday, July 28, 2012
Mike T Sr, thank so much. Just because I'm leaving doesn't mean we won't keep in touch. Be well, my man.
Russ Crespolini
12:21 pm on Thursday, July 26, 2012
Brendan: http://patch.com/A-wzxD
Brendan Kuty
12:23 am on Saturday, July 28, 2012
You're the man. Thanks so much for that. And thanks for coming out tonight and for the slogan ideas. I like the one about ... nah. Not for here.
David Danzis
1:31 pm on Thursday, July 26, 2012
Brendan,
Best of luck to you sir. Dr. Robinson would be proud! Keep up the good work bud.
Brendan Kuty
12:24 am on Saturday, July 28, 2012
David, I went out for dinner with Dr. R and a few former CCM paper people I'd say more than a year ago. She's doing well. Sorry we never really connected on freelance work. But I'm sure you'll do well at Rutgers and carve a name for yourself.
Rick Burchfield
1:46 pm on Thursday, July 26, 2012
Brendan,
I've had the privilege of watching you grow as a journalist (and hopefully helping that growth) for a number of years and at multiple publications. It's been great working with you. You will be missed. Good luck.
Brendan Kuty
12:25 am on Saturday, July 28, 2012
Rick, you already know. Anything you need, any time. Same goes for Heather. Especially considering you're right down the block. But even if you weren't, I got you.
Briana Kuty
9:46 pm on Thursday, July 26, 2012
Brendan, I am so proud of you for all your unflagging energy and hard work-especially with events such as the exciting Hopatcong Days and school events to unfortunate crimes and house fires. I’m also proud of you for your undying optimism for the people you interviewed and quoted. You are also the most giving, caring brother anyone could ask for. You inspire me to go into journalism when I graduate college. Mom and Dad are also proud of you! We respect all your hard work and even though we are slightly saddened for all the other Hopatcongers by your leave, the three of us support you unconditionally. Good luck on your transition to your future job. We love you with all our hearts. From Briana, Mom, and Dad.
Brendan Kuty
12:25 am on Saturday, July 28, 2012
Briana, mom, dad: I love you.
Michele Guttenberger
11:42 pm on Thursday, July 26, 2012
Brendan - it seems more than 2 years. You have really grown into a great reporter who has learned more about Hopatcong than any human being alive. Hopatcong has given you dog years of experience and you did it all on your own. You amazed me with your energy - always there at every event. Being the whole reporting team of Hopatcong you are a seasoned reporter now. I will miss you on Patch but I'm happy for you moving on to bigger and better things. You absolutely deserve it.
Brendan Kuty
12:26 am on Saturday, July 28, 2012
Michele, thank you so much. Best of luck with the new nonprofit venture. And with everything.
Observer
7:53 am on Friday, July 27, 2012
You still here? Seriously, good luck Brendan. You've certainly paid your dues!
Brendan Kuty
12:27 am on Saturday, July 28, 2012
Looks like I'm out for good now. But thank you so much, Observer. I hope you're right. And I hope some time to meet you around town.
Danette Swanson
2:10 pm on Friday, July 27, 2012
Dear Brendan, we all wish you the very best in your future & also wish to thank you for the wonderful job you have done with the Patch. You will be missed & hopefully we will see you soon. God Bless, The Swansons Family
Brendan Kuty
12:28 am on Saturday, July 28, 2012
Danette, thank so much. And tell John I said the same for the help he gave me during his time as chief. It's been great getting to know you guys. You were both always a pleasure, always with positive outlooks for Hopatcong. Hope to see you around.
Emily
3:44 pm on Friday, July 27, 2012
Bye Brendan. new endeavors prevail. Go get um!!!!!!!
Brendan Kuty
12:28 am on Saturday, July 28, 2012
Emily, I hope you're right. I'll do my best. Be well.
michele perrotti
1:52 pm on Thursday, August 9, 2012
Wow, I just saw this.... I wish you the best of luck in your new endeavors, Brendan. I hope you don't forget the block party. We'd love to have you stop by!
Jeanette Bushell
9:37 pm on Wednesday, August 15, 2012
I just saw this as well. Congratulations on the new opportunity! You did an awesome job with the patch, I was wondering why it was not the same the last few weeks, had to backtrack and find this good-bye from you.
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