I rarely trumpet the “Donate” feature on this blog. The timing rarely seems right, especially in this year of an ongoing — and worsening — crisis of homelessness made worse by Our Betters’ deliberate policy choices. But Giving Tuesday offered an opportunity.

Which I took. And wow, did you ever respond.

Between Giving Tuesday and the day after, my income for the entire year went up by more than 20%.

All I can say is, thank you. Your response is heartening and inspiring.

I don;t do this with the intent or expectation of making big money. Fortunately I have a partner who earns more than I, and who believes in what I’m doing regardless of earning potential (or lack thereof). And as other Vermont media shrink steadily away from serious political coverage, this work feels more important than ever. Many of you seem to agree.

As long as I’ve got a few brain cells to rub together, some insights to share, and occasional bursts of righteous anger to warm the cockles, I plan to continue staffing this little lemonade stand in the marketplace of ideas. Your patronage is appreciated.

The title of this post, in case you were wondering, emerged from my memory of a long-ago live performance by the legendary Steve Martin in the sadly brief “standup” phase of his career. Martin concluded his act by saying “I’d like to thank each and every one of you for coming out tonight!” He then took a deep breath and began pointing at people, saying “thank you” and repeating as quickly as he could, with the clear intent of actually thanking each and every one of us.

As he continued, he got bored, then exasperated, and finally angry, as the task dragged on and on. I don’t have a big enough paying audience to reach anywhere near that stage, so it’s nothing but a pleasure to say “Thank you” to all who responded on Giving Tuesday and to everyone else who honors me with their time and attention.

We now return to our regularly scheduled programming.

And yes, the “Donate” button still works.