VTDigger reporter Alan Keays listens as U.S. Sen. Peter Welch, D-Vermont, white cap, tours flood-damaged Second Street in Barre on Friday, July 12, 2024. Photo by Glenn Russell/VTDiggerBehind every breaking story, every investigative deep dive and every carefully crafted newsletter is a team of VTD igger journalists who make it happen.I have the privilege of seeing that work up close every day. And I can tell you: it’s not easy. It takes relentless curiosity, an unshakable commitment to truth and long hours spent digging — sometimes through documents, sometimes through floodwaters, sometimes through political spin.If you can, please contribute today during VTDigger’s Spring Member Drive. Your gift in any size will help our nonprofit newsroom bring you news you can’t find anywhere else.DonateLocal journalism doesn’t happen by accident. It happens because dedicated reporters ask tough questions, follow leads, and show up when it matters. It happens because an editor pushes for accuracy, a photographer captures the essence of a moment and a data journalist turns numbers into stories that hold the powerful accountable.At VTDigger, everything we publish is made possible by a newsroom that works tirelessly to inform Vermont. And that newsroom is powered by readers like you.VTDigger is not backed by corporate owners or investors. The vast majority of our budget comes from donations and goes directly to paying our journalists — because they are the reason we exist. The only way we can continue this work is with the support of our readers. Will you join us?Join the Spring DriveIf you value journalists who hold power to account and ask the tough questions, I hope you’ll make a gift today. Your support ensures that this work continues—this year, next year, and for years to come.Sincerely,Neal GoswamiActing editor-in-chief, VTDiggerRead the story on VTDigger here: The journalists who keep Vermont informed — and why they need you. ...read more read less