The intent is to encourage public discussion. We are looking for civil, well-reasoned opinions from any and all sides. Poorly written letters that are largely incomprehensible, and letters that have nothing in particular to say are not published. We welcome letters dealing with such issues, but caution the writers to avoid preaching or challenging others' interpretation of scripture. Nobody can win a debate on the meaning of scripture.
Some letters have a peripheral connection to a public issue, but their main thrust is personal.
Those letters probably won't be printed. As an example, a letter complaining about the reader's house being robbed probably won't be published. Letters calling attention to or praising a person, group or event will be considered if the topic is of public interest, but thank-you letters are personal and should be written to the people the writer wishes to thank, not as letters to the editor. We normally do not publish letters calling for boycotts on businesses, or praising or attacking a particular business except when the issue involved pertains to a larger social issue. Complaints about bad service or dealings with businesses or public agencies will not be used if they are considered to be personal.