Town Square, Dec. 4, 2019

Town Square is an opinion column to which readers can submit their views. As a true community newspaper, we’re always looking for ways to include local thought and pertinent viewpoints. This column is a way to share those thoughts. Civility and fair comment will always prevail.

Thankful thoughts
GROWING LOVE: I love everything about our small town that’s growing every day and family and friends. I’m so thankful to have a family owned business for 50 years now. It’s a blessing to have all these wonderful sites.

SO MUCH: All year long, we are grateful for Dorchester County! Here are just a few reasons why: The beautiful sunrises and sunsets. The sweet meat from late-season crabs. The beauty of the birds and wildlife. Being out on the water, whether in a powerboat, sailboat or kayak. The slurp of a local oyster. The way people here watch out for each other and don’t hesitate to help. The Crab Basket Tree. The wave from a fellow driver on a back road. Watching the sun come up while hunting or crabbing or oystering or fishing. The deeply layered history that goes back more than 350 years. The small, family-owned businesses that have been around for generations. The new businesses that bring new ideas and innovation. The farmers who work hard every day of the week to bring us fresh produce, meat, cheese and more. The hundreds of events that entertain and inform.
EDITOR’S NOTE: It doesn’t have to be Thanksgiving Day to share our gratitude. Let’s hear what you’re thankful for here in Dorchester! Email us the address below!

Election districts
GERRYMANDERING: An overwhelming majority of Marylanders, regardless of party affiliation, strongly support the Hogan administration’s nonpartisan redistricting plan. However, year after year, the legislators who did the gerrymandering have ignored the will of the people and hidden this critical reform legislation in a drawer, refusing to bring it to the floor for a straight up-or-down vote.

STIFLING: Gerrymandering stifles real political debate, contributes to our bitter partisan polarization, and deprives citizens of meaningful choices. The voters should pick their representatives, not the other way around.

POWER: The Democrats control Maryland at the state and federal level because of gerrymandering. Do you really think they are going to end gerrymandering and risk giving up their power?

DEMOCRAT’S SUPPORT: As a Democrat, the nationwide gerrymandering is completely frustrating as I believe the end results in Congress are not representative of our nation. I also acknowledge that Maryland is guilty of this, favoring the Democrats. I support the fight against gerrymandering in Maryland, and I hope that as the head of the Governors Association, Gov. Larry Hogan can also help lead the fight nationwide.

ALLOW A VOTE: This is why “Hot Button” issues like this need to be on a referendum. Let the people decide these things, instead of just sitting on it until it goes away.

Town Square - your public forum - is moderated by Dorchester Banner Editor Dave Ryan. Email your comments to dryan@newszap.com.