From the Editor: Don’t Take It From Me . . .
Anyone could tell you that elections tend to bring out a lot of emotions, both positive and negative.
But on Wednesday, Aug. 23, as I weaved in and out of the aisles of the Orange County High School auditorium taking photos for The OC Bulletin’s coverage of the local candidate showcase, I remember feeling one distinct, and even unexpected feeling: pride.
Pride that so many Orange County citizens had taken the time out of their day to attend the event, because they understood the importance of knowing their candidates.
Pride that those candidates had answered the call to an open and honest discussion of their platforms, with nearly all of the 28 local candidates on the ballot this fall taking part in the forum.
And pride that our local organizations, including the Orange County Chamber of Commerce, NAACP and Farm Bureau, had prioritized providing a platform for that discussion in the midst of their other important work in the community.
In journalism, there’s a popular adage that goes something like, “If your mother tells you she loves you, check it out.”
While that saying is clearly an exaggeration and not an indictment of anyone’s familial affection, the principle behind it is valuable for journalists and citizens alike. Here at The OC Bulletin, we strive to provide detailed, accurate reporting that summarizes the issues most important to Orange locals in a format that is quick and easy to understand. However, the civic role of the press works most effectively when combined with an active, engaged citizenry.
Fortunately, there are plenty of opportunities between now and November 7 to gain the information citizens need to maintain a healthy democracy, and to make the best choices for themselves and their neighbors come election day.
In addition to our ongoing election coverage, video footage of the candidate showcase is still available in its entirety on YouTube. For those who prefer an in-person setting, candidates and community organizations will continue to have meet-and-greets throughout the county, like the one that Just Orange is holding tomorrow, Sept. 14, from 5 to 7:30 p.m. at Taylor Park. (View event details on their Facebook page here.)
For those who are still learning the basics, the Orange County website has information on voting deadlines and district maps here, and the Office of Voter Registration and Elections is happy to answer questions at (540) 672-5262.
There are also some great opportunities locally to learn about what citizenship entails beyond voting. Interested in leveling up your Constitutional literacy? Check out Montpelier’s new podcast “Consider the Constitution,” or visit the historic site this Saturday, Sept. 16, for a panel discussion on exercising Constitutional rights. (Read our article on both here.)
With so many seats on the ballot in Orange County, there is sure to be no shortage of information — fact, opinion, or even the occasional outright lie — leading up to the general election. But don’t just take it from us, or anyone else for that matter. Take a step this week toward casting a confident vote Tuesday, Nov. 7.
Andra Landi
Founder and Editor
The OC Bulletin