Staying relevant

Sometimes, the stars just align. ... When I assigned stories for the October issue, I had no idea that Haitian Americans would be such a news focus. It doesn’t take a crystal ball to know that the 2024 election and the Middle East conflict would still be ‘news.’ But really? Eating pets? Come on.”

Robin Blinder, editor-in-chief, Editor & Publisher

Sometimes, the stars just align. Although we try to be relevant and bring you the top industry news, understand that I give out assignments six to eight weeks before you read the articles. In that light, staying relevant can feel like a stretch. However, this month, I’m feeling more like a soothsayer than an editor.

When I assigned stories for the October issue, I had no idea that Haitian Americans would be such a news focus. It doesn’t take a crystal ball to know that the 2024 election and the Middle East conflict would still be “news.” But really? Eating pets? Come on.

So, if you’ve ever wanted to send me hate mail for being such a “libtard,” this would be the month.

Our cover story, “How not to sanewash,” is a change-up for us. Rarely, if ever, do we feature one of our “Voices” on the cover, but this one felt cover-worthy. Rob Tornoe did a great job of framing the dilemma, offering suggestions — and stating why it’s so crucial to get this right: “While many might consider this a national media problem, local journalists in battleground states will be on the frontlines until next month’s election. With Trump and other candidates campaigning across the country, it becomes critical for journalists to present as clear a picture as possible about the choice voters will face when they head to the ballot box, from Trump and Kamala Harris down to their local candidates.”

In our feature article, “Reporting on war in the Middle East,” Gretchen Peck interviewed journalists with battle scars and wisdom from many years in the area. Whether or not you agree with their viewpoints, you must admit they have a front-row seat and worthwhile observations. We hope their experience helps you inform your local reporting on the Middle East.

Our article about The Haitian Times was a fluke of timing, as their publication has been on my radar for a while. However, their perspective on one of today’s more bizarre (and sad) situations is important, as is their ongoing work.

So, if you don’t like the views or message this month or think them too liberal, I’m happy to hear from you. Bring it on. Just don’t complain that you can’t find the stories on our website. You can read the entire magazine on the first day of the month by going to editorandpublisher.com and choosing “Current Issue” under “Print Editions,” or go to editorandpublisher.com/app and download our app.

Maybe next month, we’ll be back to just trying to be relevant.

Robin Blinder is E&P's editor-in-chief. She has been with E&P for five years. She can be reached at robin@editorandpublisher.com.