Dear readers, supporters and contributors,

Thank you to all who have donated so far. I have been out of touch for two weeks or so - a trip to talk to funders in New York followed by catching up on everything after a week out of the office. The New York trip went well, and our foundation supporters there really appreciate the membership commitment that your donations demonstrate. You can keep giving - click here!

Over the next 2 weeks, I am really going to focus on a seminar openDemocracy is hosting with the MacArthur foundation on "Credibility in the New News" - how do we decide what to believe in the ever-growing media torrent around us? How does technology help and hinder? And is there a way to make the fractured perspectives of globalisation a way of discovering a common humanity, rather than communities joined by their mutual incomprehension?

Democratic perspective plus helpful technology is what openDemocracy's Think Long Term Campaign is looking to implement. Please help us by donating - click here!

Given the full plate I have ahead, and the fact that I am still looking to reach our target of 1,500 supporters this year, I am extending the campaign until March 21st 2008. I will send out occasional emails in the next 2 weeks, and then step up the pressure again.

By the way, as some of you have been asking, Felix, our tech whizz has set up the private forum for all those who have contributed significantly to oD - whether through a money donation, writing or time. The forum, accessible only to this self-selected group, is at: http://www.opendemocracy.net/forums/od_crowd. It is a place where those of us who care about openDemocracy can discuss the future, help, criticise and talk to amongst ourselves.

Many thanks,

Tony