Letters

GOTCHA! This is not a Letter to the Editor. It is about them.

On page 2 of the Tribune is a box with important information. Prices, email, etc. Also included are the Letters to the Editor Policy.

We have been receiving letters that are quite lengthy, so I believe it necessary to set a word count guideline also. Looking for ideas from other sites I found suggestions of 150 to 250 words. So now the Edmunds County Tribune asks that your letters will not exceed 300 words.

Another guideline I found online was “Letters must be written in a professional, thoughtful and cordial tone.” I hope that would also be a guideline you would remember when writing.

Presently the printed Letters Policies are:

1. All letters must be signed and the name of the writer will be printed with all letters published.

2. Letters will not be accepted for publication from people who reside out side the local coverage area unless the letters are written on a purely local topic.

3. If a letter attacks another specific individual, the Tribune will allow that person to read the letter submitted before the publication and to answer it in the same issue, if he/she desires.

4. The Tribune will edit any letter that contains offensive language, that maybe libelous or unreasonably long before publication.

And the new policy:

5. Letters should not exceed 300 words.