On February 1, 2010, I wrote the very first blog post on Free Fun in Austin, and I was hooked. From that day forward, I was determined to explore every inch of this city with my kids, so I could report back with our most exciting finds. Along the way, something unexpected happened—readers started reporting back to me. We would chat online and through email, with recommendations flowing back and forth. A community was born.
This community has been amazing. Overwhelmingly positive, with a shared love of our city, Free Fun in Austin readers have shaped our site into the resource it is today. Interacting with fellow everyday adventurers has been like a wonderful seven-year conversation and I am so thankful for each and every one of you.
Through the years, a surprising number of readers have also reached out to ask if I could use their help. Every member of our Free Fun Gang was first a reader who had an idea of how to make the site better, and joined the team to make it happen. They all pitched in, and the site is a testament to their efforts and passion. These gals’ enthusiasm is contagious and it has been such an honor to work with them.
A recent team meeting (L to R): Emily, Addie, Heidi, Katie T., Katie H., Catherine, and Heather.
Now, the Free Fun in Austin family is expanding once again! I am excited to announce that we have joined the Austin.com network of local websites, co-founded by David Wieland. The team at Austin.com brings an impressive level of journalistic experience and technical expertise that will help shape Free Fun in Austin into an even more valuable tool for readers. With additional resources and manpower, Free Fun in Austin will soar to new heights!
The contributors you have come to know and love will continue to share their favorite events and local experiences with you on FreeFuninAustin.com—the website isn’t going anywhere. In addition, I anticipate many new authors will be added to the mix, each bringing their own unique contributions. What will change? I am passing the torch to a new editorial team. Stephen Webster, Executive Editor of Austin.com, will take the helm and I feel confident that his leadership will only elevate the quality of content on Free Fun in Austin. Stephen loves Austin, like the rest of us, and is already hard at work lining up amazing features for the coming months.
In short, a larger team with greater support is a huge win for Free Fun fans! I can’t wait to watch the site continue to blossom and grow. Thank you all for your support throughout the years. You mean the world to all of us.
For more information about this happy development, read today’s press release over on Austin.com.
