A Reminder On Letters To The Editor Policy

For those considering writing a letter to the editor of this publication, we have a few rules. One basic rule is that we want letters from local writers and our subscribers. We get letters from people all over the state, region and country.
Requiring letter writers to be subscribers ensures they are connected to the community and support the newspaper. Other rules include:
1) Letters should be no more than 350 words. State clearly and precisely your point or points.
2) We will carry one letter per person every four weeks unless the person is the direct subject of a letter.
3) All letters must be signed with an address. They must also contain a phone number by which we can verify the sender’s identity. We will not publish the address or phone number.
4) We reserve the right to edit the letters for clarity.
5) Language that threatens harm or incites action to harm an individual or group is hate speech and we don’t print it.
6) We don’t print letters that criticize a local business.
7) We ask that writers know the facts of what they are writing about. Rumors and half-truths are not the foundation on which letters should be based. Letters that contain provably false information will not be printed.
8) We don’t print letters that attack individuals. You can challenge a belief or a way of life that you don’t agree with, but you can’t attack or demean an individual whose lifestyle you disagree with.
9) If a letter comes from an organization, the president, or other official representing it, must sign the letter.
10) Letters that are generated by an artificial intelligence program will not be printed.
11) In most cases, thank you letters are not considered letters to the editor. They are advertising.