Community Corner

North County Editor Prepares to Bid Bittersweet Farewell

After almost three years with Patch, Patch Editor Aja J. Junior prepares for a new step.


Of the hundreds of stories and posts written on Patch these almost three years, this is undoubtedly one of the hardest.

Sept. 13, 2010 was my first day of a new journey with a new company. It allowed me to be closer to home and family, more importantly, it allowed me to do what I love, which is to tell stories.

That’s why it’s so hard to let you all who have helped me build this site know that Aug. 20 will be my last day at Patch.

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While it’s a great move for my family and my career, it’s quite bittersweet.

In the almost three years since moving to Florissant, I’ve met, interviewed and spoken to incredible people in the North County community. More importantly, a number of those people have allowed me to share their wonderful stories with the community and in essence the world.

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Not to mention, I have grown so much professionally and personally in that time.

I got married, got my first dog, who is still doing well, and one of my crowning achievements, I had my son.

Professionally, I feel that I’ve grown leaps and bounds in writing, learning how to cultivate a story, interviewing and so much more.

This has been one of, if not the most, greatest adventure of my life so far, and I’m so happy that I was able to do it with you all.

When Florissant Patch launched Nov. 22, 2010, I had no idea what to expect, and I was just praying someone would read it. In that time, I’ve met so many who have loved the community and the reporting that I provided. I wish I could have done so much more, but a one-woman band can only do so much.

When I took on Hazelwood Patch a few months ago, I didn’t know what to expect, but residents welcomed me with open arms, and I greatly appreciate it. I just wish I had time to learn more about the community and stories you wanted to hear.

At any rate, I’ll be moving on as a digital producer at KSDK, so you’ll continue to see my byline around town just for a wider range. Not to mention, I live in Florissant, and I have no plans on going anywhere anytime soon. You’ll see me at events and around town, but I’ll be just a regular citizen.

But I thank you so much for your support and comments and obviously reading. It’s my hope that Patch will continue to be recognized and helpful for North County community.

Thanks so much for reading, and I’ll see you around.


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