Every Fourth of July, we celebrate independence—the freedom to think for ourselves, engage in civic life, and build stronger communities together.

At FreshWater Cleveland, independence means something else, too.

Since 2010, FreshWater has been an independent voice dedicated to telling the stories of Cleveland's neighborhoods, entrepreneurs, artists, community leaders, and residents. We shine a light on the people and places that make our region vibrant, resilient, and connected.

In a media landscape increasingly dominated by national headlines and shrinking local newsrooms, independent local journalism matters more than ever.

It matters because neighborhoods deserve coverage.

It matters because community voices deserve to be heard.

And it matters because informed residents help create stronger, more engaged communities.

For more than 15 years, FreshWater has been committed to reporting stories that often go untold—stories of innovation, culture, economic development, neighborhood pride, and the people working every day to make Cleveland better. Through our commitment to solutions journalism, we don't just report on challenges. We tell the stories of the people, organizations, and initiatives creating positive change and helping our communities thrive.

I joined FreshWater as a reporter in 2011 because I believed in its mission to celebrate Cleveland's neighborhoods and the people who call them home. In 2023, I became the publication's owner, continuing a commitment to independent, community-centered journalism that has guided FreshWater since its founding.

As an independent newsroom, we rely on the support of readers, sponsors, foundations, and community partners to continue this work. Your investment helps us commission stories from local journalists, hire photographers, cover neighborhood events, and ensure that important community stories remain free and accessible to everyone.

This Independence Day, we invite you to invest in independent local journalism.

Whether you choose a one-time contribution or become a monthly supporter, your investment helps us continue reporting on the communities we serve, highlighting solutions, and sharing the stories that make Cleveland unique.

Together, we can ensure that the stories of Cleveland's neighborhoods continue to be told—not just on Independence Day, but every day.

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With gratitude,

Karin Connelly Rice
Managing Editor and Owner
FreshWater Cleveland

Support Independent Journalism. Invest in Cleveland's Stories. Support FreshWater Cleveland.