Tips for Writing Letters to Decision Makers:

Letter writing is a very powerful tool for effecting changes. Here are some tips for writing letters to decision-makers:

• Original letters count most and a regular letter usually carries more weight than an e-mail. Express your views in your own words and, if possible, include a personal experience in your letter.

• Address one issue at a time and be brief. One page is perfect, but you could go to two. Handwritten letters are fine, but just make sure they are readable.

• Your first sentence should state where you live, especially if you are a constituent (meaning, you live in his or her voting district) of the elected official to whom you are writing.

• The first paragraph should explain why you are writing and what you want the person to do.

• Ask for a response. For example: "I look forward to hearing how you will vote."

• Be polite in the letter and thank the reader for considering your views. Remember, when elected officials receive enough letters about a particular issue, their opinions can be influenced.

Special thanks to the Sea Turtle Conservancy for the tips listed above.

If You Are Sending An E-Mail:

• Be sure you have the correct e-mail address. If you are off by one letter or number, the e-mail will be returned to you!
  
  
• Include a short description of the topic in the subject box. For example, you might want to write "Support Manatee Protection."
  
  
• Start your e-mail with a salutation. For example, you might write "Dear Governor Crist" if you were sending an e-mail to Florida's governor.
  
  
• Keep your e-mail short so it is easy to read. One or two paragraphs is usually fine.
  
  
• Finish your e-mail with a close such as, "Sincerely."
  
  
• Include your first and last name, regular mailing address, and e-mail address.
  
  
• Use the spelling checker to find mistakes before you send the e-mail.
  

Educators: Please consider the above as exercises you can do with your entire class. They will be fun and informative and a great lesson in civics, and they will help in the protection of manatees.

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