Thank You, Facing South Readers

Today marks Facing South's 4-month anniversary in the blogosphere. It was four months ago that we posted our manifesto about the need for a fresh new take on key issues and prospects for progressive change in the South.

Four months -- that makes us virtual virgins in blogworld. But I think we've been able to do some good things in that short time.

For Southerners and South-watchers alike, we've become a go-to source for news and analysis (with a twist of offbeat humor). Journalists, think tank researchers, Congresspeople, and leaders at the grassroots have all written to thank us for delivering a daily progressive take on this region we call home. Our readership has steadily climbed, too.

Thanks for reading, and making this blog a success!

If you'd like to get more involved with the Institute and our work for justice, democracy and peace in the South, here are some things you may be interested in:

*** OUR EMAIL NEWSLETTER: Sign up for the Institute's newsletter, also called Facing South -- it includes news and analysis (as well as the always-popular Institute Index) that often doesn't make it onto the blog. It's free -- just enter your email address in the upper right hand corner of this page.

*** SOUTHERN BLOG DIRECTORY: Are you a progressive Southern blogger? Is there a good one you like to read? We're compiling a list of progressive Southern blogs for eventual publication in some form. If you have a lead, leave a note in the comments or write us here.

*** SUPPORT OUR WORK: We're about to launch our 2005 Summer Fundraising Drive. If you'd like to get a jump on the action and support our award-winning investigative reporting, our unique progressive analysis, and resources for grassroots activism, make a contribution to today! Every dollar counts, and we deeply appreciate your support.

And if you're not an Institute member yet, take advantage of our special online rate to join today. By joining you not only become a card-carrying member of the Progressive South -- you also get a year's subscription to award-winning Southern Exposure magazine, and discounts on Institute special reports.

We look forward to working with you for a better South, and thank you for your support.