Write To Your Local Paper(s)
Not everyone scours the Internet looking for their entertainment news and a great way to reach those people is through their local newspapers. Unfortunately, Veronica Mars has flown under the radar of many local papers and, as a result, their loyal readers may not be aware the show even exists. Let the editor of your local newspaper know what the show is all about and how much their readers will enjoy Veronica Mars.
Step one: Track down the mailing address for your local paper's editor
This can typically be found in the paper itself or online at the newspaper's web site. If you're not sure what your local paper's web site is, check out newslink.org. The site lists thousands of links to local papers across the country and beyond.
Step two: Write your letter
The best way to get the attention of a newspaper is to write out your letter longhand. If you care enough to write it all out, they will see that you're passionate about your subject and take the time to read it. Make sure to write a neat as possible. If they can't understand your handwriting, they will likely ignore your letter. Explain what the show is about and suggest a review by one of their writers. It's always good to do some name dropping. Mention a few of VM's famous fans and what they said about the show. Be sure to let them know that you enjoy their efforts. If they have a great entertainment section, tell them. If you enjoyed their coverage of the city's annual dog show, let them know. A little compliment goes a long way. Finally, professionalism is key. Be sure your letter includes correct spelling and punctuation and that it is grammatically correct.
Not exactly sure what to write? Here is a terrific sample letter to get you started:
Dear Milwaukee Journal Sentinel Entertainment Editors,
I am a student here in the Milwaukee area and I enjoy reading the Journal Sentinel. One of my favorite sections is Cue; I love reading about local events and your coverage of national television shows.
However, I am disappointed that you have not yet covered critical darling Veronica Mars. This fantastic UPN show has been hailed as the second coming of Buffy, the Vampire Slayer crossed with Twin Peaks. Joss Whedon, the creator of Buffy, has expressed his love for the show effusively, heralding it as the "Best. Show. Ever," and Buffy alums Alyson Hannigan and Charisma Carpenter have both had recurring roles on the show. Among its other famous fans is Kevin Smith, the cult auteur of View Askew Productions, who called it "an amalgam of some of the best TV ever produced." Even thriller writer Stephen King has admitted his love for the show, noting that he "can't take his eyes off it."
Each week, Veronica's writers create a complex, intriguing mystery for the title character to unravel. Juggling high school and personal relationships, Veronica solves her cases with wit, determination, and a multitude of snappy comebacks. The show's noir-infused universe illustrates life lessons, such as the corrupt nature of power and wealth and the sometimes harsh but empowering consequences of loyalty to loved ones and to your own values, without ever becoming trite or didactic. In addition to the case of the week, Veronica dedicates herself to a season-long mystery (this year a bus crash that killed 6 of her classmates) that fans of intricate plotting can take comfort in knowing will be solved satisfactorily by the end of the year.
Nonetheless, Veronica Mars is suffering in the ratings and might fail to make it onto the fall schedule of fledgling net, The CW, if things don't change. It has endured a cutthroat timeslot, airing opposite Lost and American Idol, making it difficult for the sophomore show to gain the attention (and viewers) it deserves. On April 11, it moves to Tuesday nights, a scheduling change that needs all the advertising help it can get.
Veronica Mars transcends the teen genre, and I am surprised that the Journal Sentinel hasn't written more about its far-reaching appeal. Please put one of your skilled writers to work reviewing this great show. I am confident it will be an assignment they will enjoy very much.
Sincerely, Jane Doe
Step three: Mail it out!