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Ohio must renew attempts for fair constitutional maps

Editorial

Whether it was confusion over ballot language or truly a desire to maintain the system already in place, Ohio voters on Tuesday rejected an amendment that would have established a citizen-led commission to produce the state’s political maps. Though voters decided the Citizens Not Politicians effort was not the right way forward, it must not mean advocates give up the fight for a system that produces fair and constitutional voting maps. “In analyzing the vote tonight, it is clear that the millions of Ohioans who voted yes want to end gerrymandering,” former Ohio Chief Justice ...

When one group’s civil rights are threatened, we all are, too

Editorial

All over the world, vulnerable populations have cheered the news that U.S. and United Nations elections monitors would be on hand to safeguard their voting processes. Here in the United States, the Department of Justice’s election monitors have for decades observed elections and polling conditions across the country — particularly when official conduct has led to requests for outside observation. Ahead of the 2024 General Election, the DOJ announced it would be deploying election monitors in 86 jurisdictions across 27 states. It is indicative of how warped some officials’ ...

Post-election, let’s hope all Americans can heal

Editorial

Whew!!! Election Day has come and (kind of) gone. As this was written, much uncertainty surrounds the outcome of the biggest race of the election. Regardless, let’s try our hardest to be mindful that we are all Americans first and foremost. Yes, it certainly is difficult to do, especially if you are on the “side(s)” not winning. We live in a country where — whether it’s Harris or Trump — half of those voting, millions and millions, will be unhappy with the outcome. But we must persevere against the divisiveness and sheer vitriol and move forward. Democracy first. America ...

Did you remember to check your home smoke alarms?

Editorial

As you made your way around the house on Saturday changing clocks, watches and other devices that still require you to do so back one hour, did you remember to check the most important items in the house? Those would be your smoke detectors. The return of Eastern Standard Time represents a good reminder to check batteries in smoke detectors. Batteries need to be replaced at least once a year. It also is a good time to check on hardwired smoke detectors to make sure the units are working properly. Even those units have a battery backup in case of a power failure. The bottom line: ...

You can make your own difference in the election

Editorial

Leaders of both major political parties agree on one thing: The presidential election scheduled for Tuesday is among the most important in American history. Its outcome will shape our government, economy, even our society for many years to come, and may even come to truly define just who we are at this time. Your life and that of your children and grandchildren will be affected profoundly no matter who is elected. Don’t you want to have a say in the matter? To judge by voter turnouts in previous elections, many of your friends, family members, co-workers and neighbors simply don’t ...

Diabetes Awareness Month is observed in November

Editorial

With each month comes a new designated awareness, as advocates seize the opportunity to inform people in new and creative ways. Though it can be hard to keep track, the tactic is a good one. If, for example, there is an uptick in those seeking the various means of screening for cancers after October, the effort is well worth it. Important, too — particularly for area residents — is November’s Diabetes Awareness Month. According to the American Diabetes Association, 12.6% of Ohioans are diabetic. But those are just the patients who are aware of their condition. The U.S. Centers ...