"I began the new year with a new job, as an assistant to Susan and Clayton at the Jet City Maven," writes Matt Patneaude, who as news associate is the Jet City Maven's newest staff member. "My responsibilities include a little of everything: writing articles, selling ads, running errands, helping layout the newspaper, and other administrative tasks. It has been an opportunity for me to learn about the many facets of putting together a newspaper.

"I was first introduced to the Maven in a non-fiction writing class at University of Washington Extension last year when each student did a report on various local and national publications where we could attempt to get clips published. I was impressed by the quality of the articles and the variety of subjects covered in the Maven.

"So, a few months ago I became the first official employee of the newspaper. They have given me a chance to write about local sports and other topics. This spring, I will receive a certificate in non-fiction writing from UW Extension.

"Working at the Maven, I have gotten practical experience in writing articles, exposure to how a quality paper is published, and also a greater understanding of issues and dynamics in the North Seattle community. I look forward to talking with more of our readers and supporters in the months to come."