Targeting Santa is not OK
As managing editor of the Butler Eagle, I would like to apologize for Friday’s editorial cartoon.
It was inappropriate and does not reflect our values as a family newspaper.
We thank the community members who called and shared their perspectives. While we may not always agree, we value every reader’s opinion.
We also value your support.
The American Journalism Project research shows that a community newspaper is vital to the success of a community. Stories about our neighbors pave the way for tolerance and put up roadblocks to polarization. Coverage of school boards, municipal councils and public agencies, such as courts and law enforcement, leads to government accountability.
We believe that knowing what is going on in our communities also leads to more informed citizens, engaged voters and needed volunteers. It is a role the Butler Eagle has performed for more than 150 years and one we treasure.
And while we always put forth our best efforts to verify our information, present accurate and comprehensive reports, and present articles and other elements that we believe will interest our readers, we can and do make mistakes.
When we make an error, we correct it.
It is inconceivable that any member of the United States government would gleefully target Santa Claus. We have removed the cartoon from our online website.
In the future if we do not have an appropriate editorial cartoon — and that doesn’t mean that everyone will agree with its editorial message — we will not publish one.
Thank you for caring enough about the content of your community newspaper to reach out and for your continued support.
