In our 12-year history, many things have changed at TheBurg.
Our design, our content, our online presence are all vastly different than when we launched in January 2009.
However, one thing remains the same—we don’t endorse candidates for office.
My co-founder and I made that decision early on. As veteran journalists, we saw the negative effect that endorsements could have on the reporting process and, perhaps even more importantly, felt that we had no business telling readers how they should vote.
Over the years, though, I haven’t shied away from encouraging people to participate in the voting process itself.
I believe that voting is essential to building and sustaining community. Of course, this is the way we select people to make important decisions on our behalf. But it also offers a rare chance for citizens to come together for a common purpose—even if they may disagree over their preferred outcome.
This political season has been fraught and, in many ways, unconventional, if not downright bizarre.
Given how the campaign has unfolded, many people say they’re highly motivated to cast their ballots. However, others may have found the spectacle so off-putting that they’re considering staying home on Election Day.
I urge these people to reconsider. As we saw in 2016, a relatively small number of votes can have a big impact, especially in a swing state such as ours. We need as much participation as possible to assure that the results truly reflect the will of the people. And, if you’re still on the fence, remember—your vote may decide not only the outcome in this state, but in the country itself.
Before you turn the page, I want mention that, as is our custom each November, this issue has a special focus on local shopping. This year, many retailers have been devastated by the pandemic. By patronizing local stores, you can show them how much you appreciate their products, their hard work and their presence in the community—and make sure they’re still around come November 2021.
On a personal note, I especially urge you to patronize our advertisers and supporters. They’re the reason we’re able to bring you TheBurg magazine, our daily reporting, TheBurg Podcast and our other products and services—all for free. Happy shopping!
Lawrance Binda
Co-Publisher/Editor-in-Chief
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