The economics of printing this newspaper on the presses of the Wichita Eagle is a benefit to this operation. But every bit as appealing to us was the prospect of adding more and better-quality color printing that will improve the appearance of the publication and making it more inviting to read.

But were are concerned about more than cosmetic changes. We want to continue to improve this publication in substantive ways as well. Every week we're reminded that we've got lots of opportunities to get better than we are. Accuracy and fairness in editorial coverage is still Job 1 around here. At the same time, we admit our shortcomings. We're one of the few professions that actually makes a habit of publishing our mistakes for all the world to see.

Even as we make these largely cosmetic changes to the pages of the Free Press, please know that we also are renewing our commitment to do our job better as community journalists. We believe our primary task is not to "sell papers"-which is challenging anyway since we don't charge a subscription fee. Our task to build a better, stronger, more vibrant community through honest reporting and fair comment.

It's the very least we can do for you. -DR