Letters to the Editor
Writing Letters to the Editor (LTEs)The editorial and opinion pages of the newspaper are widely read by both citizens and decision makers. This section is the perfect place to respond to news articles or current events and to educate the public about wild Alaska.
Find your newspaper’s website by going here: http://capwiz.com/awc/dbq/media.
Letter to the Editor Tips
1.) Be Concise yet Thorough. If your letter is too long, it will be edited or discarded. Most letters should be no more than 200 words. Include important details like the names of elected officials and pieces of legislation. Keep to one topic, and limit the number of examples you give. Don’t try to take on too much in one letter.
2.) Make it local and timely. Letters in response to a recent news story are more likely to be printed, as the LTE column is where the newspaper interacts with the community. Also, make connections between your issue and the local area to further interest locals.
3.) Use your credentials. Writing on behalf of your local group, chapter, association or business will maximize the impact of your letter, as well as localize the issue. If you have personal expertise or experience with the issue, mention it.
*Follow up
Call the newspaper to make sure they have received you letter. If it has not been printed within a few days, call to inquire when it will be. If it has been rejected, ask why so that you can make changes to increase the likelihood of publication next time.
