To our readers:

Please take the time this week to look at our special section, “First Responders.” This is a new venture on our part, in which we hope to demonstrate the dedication and commitment of the professionals, volunteer and otherwise, who keep us safe.

We salute the sheriffs and police officers on patrol, the rescue workers who extricate accident victims, the firefighters who save homes, those who, without a second thought, put themselves between danger and the public.

We also ask our readers to support the work of our volunteer agencies with contributions; we have included an easy way to donate in this section.

Read, learn, appreciate … and thank them. Our first responders are always there for us. ...