West Cobb Patch Editor Says Farewell

Well, West Cobb, my time as a Patch editor has come to an end.

These past two years have been fun and exciting, challenging and trying, and above all else, a huge learning experience.

The No. 1 lesson you taught me: This community has passion. Passion for involvement in local government and schools. Passion for the success of your children, in the classroom, on the field, and in the future. Passion for helping one another. Passion for keeping the community clean. Passion for life, plain and simple.

The business owners of Powder Springs and West Cobb are an extremely friendly and welcoming bunch, always going out of their way for customers and each another. This is nowhere more true than in downtown Powder Springs, where everyone truly does know your name and exactly how to serve you. 

West Cobb’s older community is full of stories, from wars, from peaceful times living in a simpler era, from the roots of the area. Take the time to chat with them, because they’d love to talk with you.

The elementary, middle and high schoolers of both public and private schools in West Cobb are, by and large, respectful and driven. They’ve helped reel in the ample awards and recognitions recently that really make the community pop as a hub for education. 

I was often frustrated when it came to the Powder Springs city government, and I had long contemplated addressing the most glaring of issues and violations in this departing column. But I think most everything is already out there for anyone who cares.

One thing I would advise: Keep a very close eye on your elected officials. Millions of dollars are at their fingertips, so every move should be done under a microscope held by you, the citizen stockholder.

I would like to compliment the city’s employees, who, in spite of a years-long gap without raises and fear of layoffs, continue to work diligently and with great respect to taxpayer dollars. Faced with frequent negativity, especially on the police force, they do their jobs with smiling faces and a true love for bettering their community. 

Also deserving of recognition are City Council members Nancy Hudson and Al Thurman. They are anything but rubber-stampers and are not afraid to be on the dissenting end of a vote if they feel its something that goes against the best interests of the community.

One more piece of advice I have: Never forget that Patch is all about you and your community. Post your events for free. Blog for free. Claim your business, of course, for free.

I wish you, a person that makes West Cobb the thriving community it is, all the best,

Michael Stone