This summer brought the “first fruits” of growth for both my garden and Davidson Local. Just as I’ve tended tomato plants named after great storytellers—Ida B. Wells, Octavia Butler, Zora Neale Hurston, and James Baldwin—I’ve nurtured a newsroom rooted in truth, resilience, and community. Time spent with our team and their families reinforced that our strength lies in people, not just journalism.

That strength shows in every contribution—Sharon Myers bringing depth to government and crime coverage, Atalia Cardenas offering Spanish translation ideas to reach more neighbors, and all those who choose to share tips, story ideas, or simply their trust. Like a shared garden, Davidson Local thrives on collective effort, from donors to readers to local partners.