Tips to take your LTE to the next level!
- Keep the letter short (no longer than 200 words)
- Pick one or two key points and expand on them using local information, local sources, and local angles and personal stories.
- Letters must be timely to a “hot” issue (i.e. reference it to a recent article)
- Write a strong lead sentence – the first sentence is the most important
- Lay out your points a, b, c and explain
- Sentences should not be longer than 10-15 words
- End the letter with a short sentence that ties it to the beginning of the letter and has a punch
- Key phrases first
- Call ahead of time to let paper know you are submitting the letter
- If you are having a hard time getting your letter published, call and ask why
- Keep it simple and from the heart
You’re ready to submit your letter to the editor!
Key daily papers in Iowa:
- Des Moines Register
Email: letters@news.dmreg.com
Address: Editor, Des Moines Register, 715 Locust Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309 - The Dubuque Telegraph Herald
Online submission
Address: Editor, Telegraph Herald, P.O. Box 688, Dubuque, Iowa 52004 - Mason City Globe Gazette
Online submission
Address: Editor, Globe Gazette, 300 N Washington Ave, P.O. Box 271, Mason City, IA 50401 - Marshalltown Times Republican
Online submission
Address: Editor, Times Republican, P.O. Box 1300, Marshalltown, IA 50158 - Cedar Rapids Gazette
Email: editorial@gazettecommunications.com
Address: Editor, Cedar Rapids Gazette, P.O. Box 511, Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52406 - Waterloo/Cedar Falls Courier
Email: newsroom@wcfcourier.com
Address: Editor, Courier, P.O. Box 540, 100 E 4th St, Waterloo, Iowa 50704 - Quad City Times
Email: opinions@qctimes.com
Address: Editor, Quad City Times, 500 E 3rd St, Davenport, IA 52801