Ed, The Independent and its staff are an integral part of Our Valley. Without the Independent’s ongoing investigative reporting, so much of what happens, every week, would never become Public. In an age where traditional media is increasingly owned and operated by foreign mega companies: The Clarence Valley is extremely fortunate to have one of the finest Australian owned community papers in the nation reporting on local issues and the impacts of State and National changes as they affect the Valley. On behalf of The Clarence Forum: Thank You. We wish you, your staff, and readership, a wonderful Christmas and happy New Year. John Hagger The Clarence Forum