This week, the Insider bids a tearful farewell to longtime reporter Cassie Pappathan. Each week for more than two years, Cassie brought stories to the fine people of Concordia, entertaining us with her signature wit, wry humor and knack for gently poking fun at City Manager Tom Aspell in his weekly memos.

She also brought us the Food Snob, braved her fear of heights and went hang gliding, and pioneered the Insider’s presence on Facebook and Twitter. Though Cassie never lived in Concord, it became her community, and she says she’ll miss it a great deal. The Insider surely won’t be the same without her, and we wish her the best in her new endeavors in Washington, D.C.

While we’re sad to see Cassie go, we’re also happy to welcome Ben Conant as our newest reporter. Ben comes to us fresh from Keene State College, where he studied journalism. He’s a pretty cool guy, so make him feel welcome, alright Concord?

Cassie Pappathan

What will you miss most about Concord? There will be a lot of things I’ll miss about Concord, but I think I’ll miss the people most. I grew up in Salem and have lived in Manchester for the past six years, yet Concord is where I’ve felt the strongest sense of community. Whenever I’m out and about, I always run into a familiar face. Thanks, Concord. You’ve been good to me.

Coffee or tea? I won’t turn down a free cup of anything – what are you pouring?

What was the coolest thing you did as a reporter for the Insider? Hang gliding. This is also the answer to “When did you most fear for your life?”

Any advice for Ben? Amy likes her coffee to “not taste like coffee.” When you’re coming in at 6 a.m. to work on the Cappies issue, you’ll appreciate this helpful tidbit.

Push-ups or sit-ups? Every night I do 100 pushups, kiss both my biceps and then head to bed.

How do you really feel about the Cruel Oppressor? (Be honest. You’re leaving.) In horror movies, the heroine always thinks the villain is dead, only to then be startled when Jason/Freddy Krueger/Jack Nicholson pops back up, more alive and angrier than ever. Hence why I won’t be answering this question.

Any parting thoughts? Stay cool, Concord. Stay cool.

Ben Conant

Who’s your favorite famous Concordian? Definitely Matt Bonner and his sweet touch from behind the arch. Throw it down, big man.

What’s the best thing about Concord? It’s our nation’s capital! Great dome.

Coffee or tea? As a journalist, I’d prefer not to voice my political beliefs in this venue.

What are you looking forward to most in your new job? The inevitable zombie apocalypse or robot uprising that I have been preparing for all my life.

Push-ups or sit-ups? I prefer sit downs.

What do you do for fun? Basketball, video gaming, music festivals and shining the light of truth into the darkest corners of society.

How do you feel about the Cruel Oppressor? (Careful. She’s watching.) Or am I watching her?

How can readers contact you? Smoke signals usually do the trick. (If that fails, try e-mailing bconant@theconcordinsider.com, or call 369-3375.)