To our navigators: 

At times I find myself tossing and turning at night, mulling over all the possibilities that lie in front of me. Even though I’m indecisive, there’s one thing I’m certain of — without decisions, we wouldn’t exist. In fact, the choices of those who came before us have led us to where we are today and every deciding factor has molded us into who we are now.

Every day we continue to confront new challenges that have the power to stop us in our tracks — sometimes leaving us at a crossroads in our journey. This uncertainty forces us to ask: which way should we go when the directions aren’t always left or right? Whether big or small, every choice can alter the course and even cause us to lose our way. Luckily, they can also help guide us, and through each new path, there’s an opportunity for discovery. 

With 2020 on the horizon — and ultimately a new decade coming into view — we must continue to navigate our way through a labyrinth of decisions, where the future can’t always be seen with perfect vision. 

Wisconsin is no exception. The direction we choose to take from here will change our destination, shaping the state, the next generation and beyond. In the 18th edition of Curb, we set out to explore uncharted territory and share stories of choice, leading us to this year’s destination: “Navigate.” 

From coverage of changes in energy, research and activism to our political fate as a swing state, we embarked on a mission to unravel stories across Wisconsin — in small towns and big cities. As the state transitions into a period of tremendous transformation, we’ve found that our actions are becoming more important now than ever. 

Though navigating that journey may seem daunting, “Navigate” guides readers on a path into the unknown, seizing the opportunity to grow and learn in every route we encounter. While these decisions aren’t always easy, we hope readers will see that choice doesn’t have to be confining. It can empower us to find ourselves — no matter which direction the compass leads us.  

We invite you to join us in this adventure through every twist and turn in the journey. After all, the possibilities are limitless.

-Kayla Huynh, Editor in Chief