We began publishing as Online Journal on September 5, 1998, and changed the name to Intrepid Report, with a new website and features readers asked for, on January 28 of this year. Now, thanks to the support of our readers and writers who submit their articles, we begin our 14th year of independent publishing.
Thirteen years ago, there were just a few of us offering an alternative to the corporate media. Some of us, like yours truly, were journalists and former print and broadcast editors who were fed up with the lies, distortions and censorship of the ever-expanding corporate media that was gobbling up newspapers, magazines, television and radio stations or forcing out of business those that resisted becoming a part of the corporate fold. Many of us had a taste of the corporate-controlled newsroom and found it stifling and abominable. So we turned to the then fledgling World Wide Web, endeavoring to provide people with the news and information they need to become informed citizens.
Lacking the resources of the corporate media, it hasn’t been easy for those of us working on a shoestring—especially for those of us who have held on to our complete independence by neither becoming non-profits nor seeking to become captives of foundations in order to receive funding. But it has been rewarding due to the loyalty and encouragement of readers and the financial support they have provided to cover expenses.
This year, as a consequence of the economic mess and people losing their jobs, donations have been thin. So far, we’re managing to pay expenses but have no cushion for equipment replacement. However, we shall hang in there as long as we can and trust that those who can help will.
Bev Conover is the editor and publisher of Intrepid Report. Email her at editor@intrepidreport.com.
