In case you've haven't come across this commentary while combing through other links on our Web site, I'm repeating it here, because we really do want to hear from you!

As fall approaches and the Nov. 5 election day creeps in ever so closely, our readers will hopefully pick up pen and pencil (now mouse and keyboard or smart phone), to express their views in support of their candidates and special causes.

We want to hear what you believe in and why you’re backing a candidate. That approach, as opposed to simply putting down or voicing your opposition to a candidate and his or her beliefs, can be very effective in winning converts.

Following are a few tips on getting your letter to the editor published in the Loomis News.

• We welcome your opinion on all matters, but especially local subjects. We also give preference to Loomis and Penryn letter writers, and those in the region.

• We don’t print “anonymous” letters. While we’ll only publish your name and your town with your letter, we do need, for our files, your name, address and telephone number. Always include that information when submitting a letter, even if it is e-mailed. If it’s mailed or faxed, be sure to sign it, too.

• Limit the length of your letter. Our guideline is 250 words, but using fewer words works, too. That means you can only make one or two points and you’ll have to set out your arguments in a logical way.

• Letters are printed on a space-available basis. Shorter letters may be given preference to longer ones. Long letters may be edited extensively or held until there is sufficient space. There will also be delays if we have to contact you about resubmitting a shorter letter.

• In addition to editing for length, letters are edited for clarity and accuracy, so check them over carefully. And please proofread your letter carefully.

• Don’t wait until the deadline to submit your letter. Letters received the earliest, if they meet the criteria cited above, will get preference. You may write a brilliant letter, but if it came in late, it may end up at the bottom of the pile.

• Generally, we limit each writer to one letter a month, so pick your subject and cause carefully.

• If you’re backing a candidate, get your letter in now. If you don’t want to be disappointed about your letter not being printed, don’t wait until the end of October to send it in.

There are many easy ways to submit a letter –

• Visit our Web site, www.theloomisnews.com, and go to the “Submit a Letter” link under “Contact Us”

• E-mail Loomis News editor Martha Garcia at marthag@goldcountrymedia.com

• Fax to the Loomis News at 652-7879

• Mail to the Loomis News, Post Office Box 125, Loomis, CA 95650

• Or visit our office, located at 3550 Taylor Road, in the Blue Goose Fruit Shed.

Don't forget that the restrictions listed here don't apply if you comment on our Web site. You can comment as often, be as lengthy and on as many categories as you wish!