IT SEEMS timely, in the wake of four Wairarapa deaths in two weeks, to remind people of our policies with regards to abusive writing.
The Times-Age will always respond to a complaint, written to the editor, on any matter, and prior to the advent of social media, this was the traditional means of expressing one's anger at an article. That, or a phone call, or even a request for a meeting with the editor.
The door to the editor's office is always open, and in fact was utilised to good effect last week.
Rathkeale College's principal, with his board chair, came in to discuss an issue with a story of the ex-teacher who used LSD with his mates while on holiday. They had a valid concern: the headline and photo made it sound initially like a teacher was issuing drugs at school. A read of the story dispels that, but they had an excellent, valid point, and we talked that through.
Even on social media, private messages via Facebook, on a matter of concern, will be answered, because it is our policy to do so.
People who have the courage of their convictions, and address those to the editor, even if it's heated, will be heard and responded to.