Posted by rick-pfc on February 12, 1999 at 19:09:17:
In Reply to: Rick-pfc, Here's a copy of my letter to the editor. posted by Nugget on February 12, 1999 at 18:30:58:
I was impressed if not surprised for your quick draft of a letter-glad to hear my comment landed on some willing ears.
Some tips on writing to the paper (and I am no expert):
1) be concise. If letters are too long, the can get edited down and lose the impact you were trying to create. The very first sentence in such a letter should state your position. example: "This letter is written to state my opposition to the recent Brooklyn jury's verdcit to hold gun manufacturers liable." Your next sentences should be concise, level-minded, and loaded with FACT not just steam venting off and opinion (you will look like an idiot if y ou do, and do more to hurt your cause than to helo it).
2) Never engage in name calling to members of "the other side." You want other readers to hopefully agree with your reasoning, not to be turned off by your narrow views.
Final: Many people hold opinions that are largely repeating other people's view (sometimes it is peer pressure). If you provide rational and reasonable thought processes for the masses to consider, you just may win a few converts. Challenge people to think on their own, and give them the stepping stones to cross the river of reason.
Keep on writing. Thanks for the update. Be prepared to write often.
Use your first amendment right of free speech to protect your second amendment right to keep and bear arms. Good luck.
Rick Coggins