July is Free Community Paper Month

WHEREAS, "Our liberty cannot be guarded but by the freedom of the press, nor that be limited without danger of losing it" (Thomas Jefferson to John Jay, 1786); and

WHEREAS, the publishing industry of free community papers and newspapers, made up of both small and large organizations, is an important element in local communities throughout this nation. Collectively, these publications disseminate valuable information to more than 50 million homes each week. These hometown publications are the original and enduring hyper local medium, carrying the torch of democracy as the town crier, fixed in print and shared with neighbors free of charge; and

WHEREAS, free community papers proudly serve the information needs of their communities across this great land, while promoting local commerce, free enterprise and public service. It is fitting that recognition be given to this special effort to salute such publication, their owners and staff for the continued contributions to the growth and success of local communities through their publications; and

WHEREAS, The Loop newspaper has been the free community paper for the Greater Tehachapi Area and surrounding communities since March of 2001.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Susan Wiggins, Mayor of the City of Tehachapi, California, do hereby proclaim July 2015 as "FREE COMMUNITY PAPER MONTH" and urge citizens of Tehachapi to take time to read, recognize and acknowledge the importance of free community papers.

Dated this 6th day of July 2015

Signed by

Susan Wiggins, Mayor