Community has been the emphasis of this year's observance of National Newspaper Week, which ends today.
The celebration provides an opportune time for us to thank you, our readers, for your contributions because - in countless ways - the newspaper is a reflection of you.
Our pages document: births and deaths; marriages and anniversaries; academic and athletic achievements; and military and businesses accomplishments. Portraits, snapshots and other personality profiles introduce and inform readers about the lives, livelihoods and aspirations of other members of our community.
On a collective level, we report on: Initiatives by your elected and appointed officials, including state lawmakers, city and county leaders, and school boards. We publicize activities, performances and fundraisers organized by a variety of clubs and organizations, not-for-profit health and human services agencies, and theater and musical groups. In athletic arenas and stadiums, we preview games, cover competitions and report the outcomes. Advertisements display merchandise and promote sales.
But, much of what we do depends on you.
You provide the extra eyes and ears to tell us about responses to accidents, fires, evacuation and other emergencies.
You are the active, involved organizers who contact us about upcoming events and activities.
You are the performing artists who produce plays, stage concerts and arrange art exhibitions.
You are the letter writers who share views on timely topics in the "Your Opinion" forum.
You are the concerned residents who address governing bodies at public meetings and forums.
You, our readers, are the reason we have enjoyed 150 years of covering Central Missouri. As we prepare for next year's celebration, we are excited about the upcoming release of the hardcover book, "Jefferson City 150: 150 Years of Jefferson City Through the Eyes of the News Tribune and its Readers."
Thanks to you, we have shared an amazing journey. And, together, we look forward to a bright future.