Welcome to Nashua Patch.

Now that 2013 is well underway we want to make sure you are getting the most out of your new favorite news and information hub site.

We have certainly grown and changed since we started back in August of 2011, so whether you think you know how to use Patch like a pro, or if you are brand new to the site, here are some tips to make your experience better.

I'm your local editor, which means I am your go-to person for all things Nashua Patch. Read more about me here. We have a growing network of Patch sites – 12 in New Hampshire and more than 850 around the country. You can link to all our Patch sites here.

Here are 10 ways you can use Nashua Patch to stay informed – and more importantly, inform others:

1. Know before you go. Wonder if traffic is backed up on Route 101? Or where you should fill the gas tank before you hit the road? Always check our Commute tab across the top of our home page before you get stuck in a jam.

2. Give us a piece of your mind. Thank someone or let us know what you think of a topic by submitting a Letter to the Editor or other announcement, that you can upload directly to our site (don't forget to add a photo!) We do have a Terms of Use policy, and try to moderate the lively dialogue that ensues. We hope you will treat this space like you would want your own virtual space treated: Respect, Courtesy, Civility, Decorum. Viva la difference!

3. Get your news delivered every day. Wake up and have Nashua Patch in your email inbox with the latest, freshest news around. Just click here to sign up for your Patch Newsletter. Then, utilize the organizational tabs across the top of the page to search our archives, or simply type a search term in the little search bar at the top right corner of the home page. Be a Patch explorer!

4. Add photos or video via the Pics and Clips tab. Have a great picture from a local athletic event  or sledding at Nashua North High School? See something unbelievable happening on Main Street? Were you an eyewitness to something newsy? Now you can share it with everyone else in town – and an easy spot for your family to find it. If you are out and about and can't get to a computer, text your photo to me at 603-903-4958 and include your name, for photo credit, and what's happening in the photo.

5. Get Connected: Want to volunteer? Or are you part of an organization in need of volunteers? We can help connect you, via our Volunteer tab.  Patch gives 5 percent of its advertising space, free of charge, to local charities from the communities we serve. Please contact us to see if your organization qualifies.

6. Seamlessly tell neighbors about a great shopping or dining experience. Who better to trust with a review of a business than a neighbor? You can rate businesses – good or bad – by going to their Places page and sharing your thoughts. If you are a local business, organization, or entrepreneur, consider advertising on Patch. Dollar for dollar, our ad prices can't be beat. Click here to learn more.

7. Share an opinion by commenting on stories. What you think matters, so tell the rest of us what is on your mind.

8. Let us know about a great story. I can't be everywhere, but you – collectively – are! Did you attend a fantastic event at the Keefe Auditorium, or see a great band at Fody's? Use our Announcements feature, or upload it as a blog post (add photos, too!).  if you have a tip about a hot news story, click the "Send us a news tip" tab under the "Contribute" box at the bottom of this page. Want to share on a regular basis? Become an expert and a go-to source   by becoming a Local Voices blogger.

9. Claim Your Free Business Directory Listing. Then start adding photos or videos. Don't see your business listed? Let me know via email at carol.robidoux@patch.com and we'll get it taken care of. Interested in advertising on Patch? We have some great advertising deals. Contact our ad sales rep, Harison Starr today.

10. Post announcements for free. The old days of paying a publication to publish a wedding announcement or obituary are history! Now you can share the news about your wedding, your new baby, your son's graduation, or granddaughter's honor roll status. Add an event on the calendar and let everyone know about the spaghetti supper or charitable fundraiser you're sponsoring. Looking for your dream home? Our Real Estate tab at the top of the page will help.

We have some exciting changes in store this year, so stick with us – and let us know how we're doing!

-Your Local Editor, Carol Robidoux