Judging by social media, folks like to comment about everything. We’d like to see more of readers’ insights into the issues of the day shared on the Great Bend Tribune’s Opinion Page. It’s the original social media.

The Tribune welcome letters to the editor, but it has to be your own writing, with your name at the bottom. Here are some general guidelines:

• You can drop a letter at the front desk, send it by U.S. mail or email news@gbtribune.com (preferred), but it needs to be marked as a letter to the editor and must include your name, physical address, email address and daytime phone number so we can contact you if necessary. Don’t worry, we won’t share your street address, phone number or email – only the author’s name and hometown will be published.
• Sign the letter if it’s not digital.
• Keep it simple, stick to one topic and make your point. If you run over 600 words, we’ll probably ask you to restate your idea in fewer words. As a guideline, this article is under 400 words long.
• If you need more space to share a distinct viewpoint, consider writing an opinion editorial (op-ed). These have a target length between 750 and 900 words. They need to be written with clarity and feature the strong point of view and unique voice of the writer.
• No profanity or offensive language is allowed.
• Private citizens or specific businesses may not be taken to task. We will review all submissions for possible libelous content.
• Public officials and public institutions are fair game, within reason.

There are specific rules that apply at election times. If you’re running for office, we won’t run your letter. Others are welcome to write endorsement letters on your behalf.

While our rules are lenient, the Tribune reserves the right to refuse to publish any submission. For questions or more information, contact us at news@gbtribune.com or by calling 620-792-1211, ext. 227.

Susan Thacker is managing editor of the Great Bend Tribune. Contact her at sthacker@gbtribune.com.