Visit the soon-to-be-launched PortsmouthPatch

Patch.com, a growing network of hyperlocal news sites, will be launching their PortsmouthPatch on Thursday, July 29, according to an e-mail from the editor, Sandy McGee. Patch, a subsidiary of AOL, operates community news sites in over 40 localities, drawing on local editors and writers and contributions from people in the town (that's YOU!)

McGee, the PortsmouthPatch editor, comes from a newspaper background, with 8 years of experience in northern RI. "As the local editor," McGee said in an e-mail interview, "I will manage the Web site and cover news in town. I'll also employ a team of 3-4 freelance reporters and photographers to cover news and events."

Asked about the vision for the site, McGee said, "I plan to build a comprehensive local news site, covering everything from government and schools, to sports, religion, and things to do."

McGee also asked the community to get involved. "I'll try to go wherever, whenever to cover the issues that are important to Portsmouth residents. Along those lines, I need help. I would love for people to take an active role in the Web site's development by posting comments, photos, e-mailing story suggestions, etc."

Asked about local advertising, McGee referred me to corporate headquarters, and a e-mail seeking information about rates was not returned by press time.

Based on the other sites Patch runs, the emphasis seems to be on local coverage by folks from the area, and McGee aims to continue that tradition, saying, "I will be moving to Portsmouth very soon."

Editorial note: I strongly believe in participatory citizen journalism and I welcome Patch to Portsmouth. I suggest everyone bookmark the site, and take advantage of all the opportunities for contributing that a community news platform makes possible.