Writing guide
Department submission guide
Use this checklist before you submit. It helps staff turn individual department, board, and committee reports into a consistent annual book without changing the substance of your work.
What every chapter needs
- Official organization name, submitter name, title, and email.
- A representative photo for the chapter opener (optional, but recommended), such as a building, team, public program, or project.
- A clear narrative: purpose, accomplishments, challenges, goals, and any notes staff should consider before publication.
If you write in the portal
- Use short paragraphs and plain headings so residents can skim the final book.
- Use bold, lists, quotes, or callouts only when they help the reader.
- Add captions to charts and images so staff know what each figure shows.
If you upload a completed report
- Upload a PDF, DOCX, TXT, or MD file that contains the report body.
- Use PDF for finished layout; use DOCX when staff may need cleaner text extraction.
- Review the file name on the preview page before final confirmation.
Before final confirmation
The review page is still a draft. Use Edit if anything is missing, then choose Confirm and submit when the chapter is ready for staff review. Nothing is sent to staff before you do.
Submitting to the town newsletter
The monthly newsletter is shorter and more time-sensitive than the annual report. For newsletter consideration, please submit: a headline, 1–3 short paragraphs, a photo (preferred), and event details if applicable.
- For events, include the date, time, location, and any registration or cost.
- A photo is strongly encouraged — one clear image does more for a newsletter than extra words.
- Staff may edit, condense, or format items for clarity and space.
- Submitting an item does not guarantee full-article placement.
- Short notices may be grouped together into Quick Hits.
- Flyers may be included when appropriate, but should not be the default — a short written item usually reads better.