Concerned about the media's coverage of events taking place in our community-or around the world? Want to let your public officials know how you feel about an issue that's important to you or to our community? We can help you make your voice be heard:

Monitoring the media's coverage of current events:
When monitoring the media's coverage of current events, it is important that you become an informed consumer. You should try to cultivate not only an understanding of the issue that concerns you-but also the way the media covers it-by reading newspapers and magazines, watching TV, and listening to the radio. If you notice a pattern of biased or inaccurate reporting emerging from one or more media outlets, don't be afraid to call it to their attention. On the other hand, if you believe the media's coverage of a particular issue merits praise, share your positive feedback with them as well. Before contacting the media about their coverage of current events, it is important to keep in mind a few guidelines that may help ensure your message will be heard:

Stick to the facts. If you are disputing the accuracy of a particular story or visual image, it is important that you utilize facts to substantiate your point-of-view.

Be polite. Although you may be extremely angry or frustrated about the media's coverage of a story or an event, rudeness and sarcasm will get you nowhere.

Be clear and concise. Media outlets get hundreds of letters, phone calls, faxes, and emails each day, and the more quickly and cogently you can make your point, the more likely it is your point will be heard.

Remember to include your name and address. Most newspapers require this when printing a Letter to the Editor; however, you should know beforehand that it is not uncommon for people with an opposing viewpoint to try to contact you if your name, address, and phone number are listed in the phone book.