Speak out: Submit a letter; give your opinion

The Daily Journal invites readers to submit letters, opinion columns, e-mail comments.

Because of space and legal considerations, the Daily Journal reserves the right to edit any letters or articles and to limit comments.

Letters
Letters published in the Daily Journal must contain the writer's name and city or town. Letters sent to the Daily Journal must be signed and must include a daytime telephone number for verification to be considered for publication. Letters should be kept as brief as possible. Form letters are not accepted. They must be the author's own work.

Opinion columns
Opinion columns will be considered for publication.

Articles should be kept to less than 750 words and should include the writer's name, address and telephone number for verification.

Click here to email us a letter or opinion column.

Tips
We appreciate good letters because we know it's not always easy to take pen to paper and share your opinions with the world. But this is still a democracy last time we checked, and debate is part of the democratic process.

Some folks will agree with you; some won't. That's OK. Debate is good because often it can lead to even better ideas and solutions. Besides, you need to let elected officials and others know what is on your mind. Moreover, you may have ideas and viewpoints no one has thought of. So pick an issue and write a letter. Here is some advice.

• Whether you are asking a question, raising an issue or stating an opinion, more people will read your letter, column or news release if you don't ramble.
• Explain why you feel a certain way.
• Use clear, simple words. You'll have a better chance of being understood and having an impact if you use words everyone can understand.
• Don't worry if you don't think you write well. You'll do fine. Write like you talk. The more you write, the easier it will get.
• Don't be concerned if you don't have all the answers. No one does.
• Eliminate vulgarity and libelous comments. If you don't, we will.
• Keep it short. People are busy, and many don't have time to get through a long letter. Your points will be more powerful if your letter is concise. So tell us what you think about the issues. Be a part of democracy.

Click here to email a letter.

Other ways to get your opinion to us are:

Mail
Letters to the editor
Daily Journal
P.O. Box 699
Franklin, IN 46131

Office
2575 N. Morton St.
Franklin, IN 46131

Fax
(317) 736-2766

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Your letter to the editor (maximum of 600 words):