Independent. Relevant. Fearless.

So much has blossomed for The Commons since the publication of the newspaper's first issue in 2006. Our circulation has almost doubled since we began publishing weekly in 2010, and by every measure, against a difficult economy and formidable odds, this improbable news operation is fast becoming a respected and beloved part of life in southeastern Vermont.

We are a nonprofit charitable organization with a mission:

• To promote local, independent journalism in Windham County
• To create a forum for community participation through publication of The Commons and commonsnews.org
• To promote civic engagement by building media skills among Windham County residents through the Media Mentoring Project, which brings workshops of publishing and media skills into the community

How can we do this? Our advertisers, of course, make much of our efforts possible. So do some philanthropic organizations and generous donors.

But we are blessed with the support of members who believe, as we do, that good communities need good newspapers, and that good newspapers should get into the hands of as many people as possible.

We need the ongoing support of the community, much like public radio or public television. We can't do it without your help. And the more support we get, the more we can do. Think of how far we've come over the past eight years, and imagine how far we can go from here.

Thank you so much.