1. Your hometown newspaper is a place where YOU can really shine. For once, make it all about you, your family ties, your community involvement, your alma mater, your church affiliation, whatever emphasizes your ties to the community.

2. Even though community newspapers often have more generous production schedules, don’t push your luck. Ask about deadlines and respect them.

3. If you have previously worked with a reporter on another community event, resist the urge to contact that person directly. With smaller newspapers, reporters may not be assigned to specific beats. Always start with the editor.

4. The down side of hometown newspapers can be that everybody knows your personal business. Even if you’re involved or connected with another business, community group or story, always stay on point in your press release contacts.

5. Often, a community newspaper editor heads up a staff of just one or two people. These publications are more likely to publish your release in its original form, word for word, so be particularly vigilant – double check important details.

6. Editors love good local photographs. Always submit high quality, correctly framed images that include smiling faces and some activity. No “grip and grins” or lined-up group shots. Identify and have permission from every subject.

7. News space varies from week to week, day to day, in ALL newspapers. Submit your information in both short and long formats. Sometimes, a good photo with a short caption will make it in when a press release doesn’t.

8. Always find a way to say “thank you” when an editor places your story. A phone call, a cheery note, even a quick e-mail can go a long way. Remember, this isn't just public relations. You're building public relationSHIPS.