From the editor ...

“But I’m not a writer,” or “I can’t take pictures!” I hear and read versions of these protestations often, but even more often I am impressed by the quality of material that comes my way for publication in the Episcopalian.

You don’t have to be a professional writer or photographer to produce good stuff. And because the demands of producing a newspaper and Web site – among other responsibilities – prevents me from attending events as I would like, I depend on you for information.

So when you plan, carry out or attend a parish or other event in which you think readers would have interest, how do you share it?

Photographs: Whenever possible, photos should show people doing something: A picture of people planting a tree or playing charades or serving a meal generally will be more interesting than a group portrait.

Caption information must accompany the photo: who, what, where, when and why. This means anyone who can be recognized in the photo should be named; you should describe what they are doing, where they are, when they were there, a description of the activity – sponsors, participants, etc. – and who snapped the photo. If you don’t feel comfortable composing the caption, please simply list all the needed information.

Articles: A story should answer the same type of questions: What was the event? Who took a leading role in it? How many participated? Where and when was it held? If it’s been done before, how many times (“3rd annual,” for example)? What was its purpose? What was the result? Then think about what you, the reader, would most be interested in: Did anything touching, funny or exciting happen? And last, who would a reader contact if he or she wanted more information? Again, if writing is something you’re uneasy with, list the needed information and provide the name and telephone/e-mail of someone who can be contacted for more details.

That’s it. Send text and attached photos in an e-mail to editor@etdiocese.net, or drop them in the mail to me before the next deadline at The Diocese of East Tennessee, 814 Episcopal School Way, Knoxville TN 37932.

Also, when you plan an event, please give me a heads-up via e-mail or phone (865-966-2110). With enough advance notice, I may be able to attend, and if not, I’ll try to reserve space in the next issue for the quality text and photos I’m coming to expect from you.

The news of what’s happening across the diocese reveals its life and work. It’s important to share. Keep it coming, and many thanks for what you do!

— Sharon Rasmussen

EDITORIAL POLICY

The East Tennessee Episcopalian welcomes articles and letters to the editor on topics of interest to the people of the Diocese of East Tennessee. Publication is subject to space constraints and editor’s approval. Submissions may be edited and should include the writer’s name, e-mail address, address, parish and telephone number.

Please see “From the editor” above for details and for information about submitting photos.

Receipt via e-mail (editor@etdiocese.net) is highly preferred. Or mail to: Editor, East Tennessee Episcopalian, 814 Episcopal School Way, Knoxville, Tenn., 37932; or fax to: 865-966-2535. Please enclose SASE if return of materials is desired.

2003 deadlines for receipt of submissions by the editor are:

• August 22 for the September/October issue; and
• November 4 for the November/December issue.