From the editor: keep those letters coming!

Credit Union Times has a goal for 2009 to include Letters to the Editor in nearly every, if not all, issues. We had letters in nearly every issue of 2008.

We're proud of this for two reasons. First, it's an indication that Credit Union Times is providing thought-provoking editorial coverage that is inspiring more readers than ever to write letters.

Second, the letters section is the one place where readers have the opportunity to fire back on issues important to them. Think Credit Union Times missed the boat on a story? Let us know. Disagree with how industry leaders are handling something? Write a letter and make sure they get the message.

While Credit Union Times will edit letters for style and length, our goal is to ensure the letter writer's message is conveyed as intended. Occasionally, an editor's note will be necessary to correct an erroneous fact or statistic.

Here are a few guidelines on letter submission:

* Letters can be mailed, faxed or e-mailed. We prefer e-mail submission for timeliness. The faster we get the letter, the faster it gets into print. Letters can be e-mailed to [e-mail].

If you are mailing, send your letter to 33-41 Newark Street, 2nd Floor, Hoboken, NJ 07030 attn: Letters to the Editor.

To fax a letter, send to [phone], attn: Letters to the Editor.

* Send your picture please. Readers will notice that photos of the authors often accompany letters. If possible, please include a color picture when submitting a letter, though we will not hold back a letter for lack of a photo.

Credit Union Times appreciates the reader feedback over the years and hopes 2009 will continue to be a banner year for getting your views across to a nationwide audience of credit union industry leaders.