Shalom My Gantseh Megillah Family and Friends,

The long national Presidential primary season is, at last, over. Both sides have their presumptive nominee for the upcoming election. We all have our own opinions as to who is the best candidate to become the 44th President of the United States of America. Like everyone else, I have my preference as well.

I believe it is time to remind my Megillah family members about the policy concerning the nature of articles, and opinions that appear in our publication. By doing so, it is my hope that our members will feel comfortable in expressing their views, and reading those of others.

I make no pretensions to being anything other than a die-hard, capital “L,” traditional Jewish Liberal. I support Barack Obama as our next president. My personal opinion, however, will in no way dictate the nature of the articles I present in either the Weekly Megillah, or the flagship monthly Gantseh Megillah. The only area in which my personal opinions are expressed is, right here, in my monthly Editor’s Comments.

I believe that in order to serve as a conduit of information and expression for all of my Megillah family members, I have the obligation to provide thoughts, and ideas, of varying views. I encourage all of you to submit articles, or letters, that express your personal opinions on the election, or any other matter that you hold important. It is always my great pleasure to publish your letters in the appropriate “Letters to the Editor” forum, as well as to present entire articles from those who choose to take the time to write something more extensive. In fact, I yearn for more personal statements from our Megillah community, which I could add to our publication. Your thoughts and concerns are what keep the Megillah timely, fair-minded, and an instrument of personal, and collective growth.

For the record, I am aware that the United States is not simply a two party system. I have received, in the past, comments, and letters from members who lean towards Libertarian, or totally Independent political persuasions. The Megillah welcomes the voices of all political, and personal beliefs. Diversity of opinion is the lifeblood of our publication.

I am hoping many of you will set aside some time to submit your thoughts to me, so I can share them with our entire Megillah family.

Much love to all of you,
Michael