Letters to the Editor Policy

The Chronicle welcomes letters from our readers. We aim to provide a forum for diverse perspectives on local issues. To ensure a productive and respectful dialogue, please adhere to the following guidelines:

Submission requirements

  • Length: Letters should be kept to 300 words or fewer. Longer submissions may be edited for length or declined.
  • Verification: All letters must include the author’s full name, address, and a daytime phone number. We only publish the author’s name and town of residence; contact info is used strictly for verification. Anonymous letters will not be published.

Content Guidelines

  • Local focus: Preference is given to letters that address local issues, events, or previous coverage in The Chronicle.
  • Respectful tone: We will not publish letters that contain personal attacks, libelous statements, profanity, or hate speech.
  • Accuracy: Letters containing significant factual inaccuracies will be rejected. Please cite information when applicable for verification of facts.
  • No commercials: We do not publish letters that serve as advertisements for businesses or poetry.

Editorial rights

The Chronicle reserves the right to edit all submissions for clarity, grammar, and length. Submission does not guarantee publication.

Email letters to [email protected] or submit at chronicle1909.com/letter-to-the-editor

Name
Address

Guest Column Guidelines 

Guest columns are opinion pieces by individuals outside The Chronicle’s regular staff, expressing a clear point of view. These columns may not align with The Chronicle’s opinions and can sometimes contradict them. 

Pitches: Send to the editor at [email protected], noting any time sensitivity. Word Count: Up to 700 words, adjustable with editor approval. 

The Writer: Guest columnists must be local and possess relevant expertise. Columns can represent a committee or organization, but must be authored and signed by one person. 

Credentials: Include a bio with the author’s name, title, city of residence, and a headshot to accompany the piece. 

Content: Deliver a clear message backed by facts. Use sources for verification and provide a list when applicable. Support controversial ideas with evidence. Keep it hyper-local by relating the topic to local readers through anecdotes or examples. 

Restrictions: We do not publish anonymous submissions, personal attacks, conspiracy theories, or unverifiable accusations. Maintain a professional and respectful tone. 

Advertising: Guest columns are not advertisements. For promotions, The Chronicle offers ad campaign collaborations. 

Editing: The editor will review and copyedit for clarity, consulting you on substantial changes prior to publication. The Chronicle retains final editorial discretion and is not obligated to publish your work. 

Exclusivity: We publish only original, exclusive content not published elsewhere, including work generated by AI tools. 

Reprints: Contributors must wait 48 hours after publication on chronicle1909.com before sharing the piece in full anywhere else, including on company sites, social media, and personal blogs.
Email  [email protected] or submit at chronicle1909.com/letter-to-the-editor