By Marc Garman

5/16/09

Hard to believe it's been two years since the launch of VIB as Vallejo is Burning. I don't think any of us guessed we would still be going and growing with no sign of slowing down after all this time. As an accidental editor it has been quite a journey. The outpouring of help and support from the community is what has made VIB possible. When the whole endeavor seemed most grim and hopeless, people came forward to lend their help. Almost as if they somehow knew. I think I can say that we at VIB are more determined than ever to keep growing and improving.

From our first feature to a number of exclusives such as the UBL Report, the Casa de Vallejo fire and the ensuing human tragedy, and the recent H. Martin debacle we have provided in depth coverage not found elsewhere. Our all volunteer crew has expanded to include writers and researchers as well as regular and occasional contributors. We are working on a number of new features that will debut in the next few months as well as a several in depth investigative reports.

During the last two years VIB has worked with and spoken extensively to news agencies both regional and national as well as international. Examples include: The San Francisco Chronicle, Sacramento Bee, Washington Post, Fox News, The BBC, Al Jazeera, Swiss television, The Dutch Press Corps, Businessweek, Conde Nast and others I can't recall.

Despite all the attention Vallejo and VIB have gotten, we will always be focused right here in Vallejo. We face some difficult times right now and it is not going to be easy, but Vallejo will move past this if we stay vigilant and fight for our city. Thank you to all those who have sent in their thoughts, support and even criticism. A difference of opinion is always welcome.

We at VIB consider the past two years just the beginning. We'll be here. Viva Vallejo !!!

P.S. Check out our Burning Archives to see the early stuff. It's all still there.