When Mike Chipowsky retired from a 35-year career in law enforcement — including 13 years as chief of police in Hopewell Township — he didn’t step away from public service. He simply shifted his focus. These days, he spends his time behind a camera and at community events, contributing photos and stories to MercerMe.
He’s not a journalist by training. He’s a lifelong Hopewell Valley resident who cares deeply about the place he calls home.
“I saw a lack of coverage of local news and local community events in other publications and online sources,” Mike said. “I have taken photos of local events for years, and while not the most prolific writer, I enjoy sharing my photos from around our community.”
Mike’s volunteer reporting and photography have become an essential part of MercerMe’s newsroom. His coverage of celebrations, awards, and community events helps ensure readers stay informed and connected.
He believes that matters.
“Stories that cover the news of the Valley are important to all who live here,” he said. “MercerMe has filled a gap by covering local meetings in all of our towns. This is news that you are not likely to find elsewhere.”
And when it comes to building community, he says human-interest stories make a difference, too. “These show the fabric of our towns.”
Mike, who has lived in Hopewell Valley for nearly his entire life, continues to be deeply involved in public life. In addition to his work with MercerMe, he serves as chair of the Hopewell Township Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee, is on the board of the Washington Crossing Park Association, and serves on the Woolsey Park Advisory Committee. He has been a member of the Union Fire Company for 59 years, serving 13 years as president.
He sees MercerMe’s reporting as an extension of the same kind of community service.
“People are so busy today that they do not have time to attend various meetings,” he said. “But they are interested in their town. Reading a recap keeps them up to date.”
That’s why he shows up — and why he hopes others will, too.
“MercerMe is today’s local news outlet,” he said. “It deserves our support to continue to keep everyone in our Valley informed and up to date with all of the local news.”
This article is part of our 100 in 10 campaign — our effort to bring in 100 new acts of support in just 10 days. If you value stories like this and the community members who make them possible, please become a supporter today.
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