should cover letter be on letterhead

Should I Use a Letterhead With My Cover Letter?

• Cover Letters
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The Importance of Grooming & Dressing for a Job Interview

How to create a digital resume, business casual for petite women outfit ideas.

• The Best Fonts for Business Letters
• Things Not to Put in a Resume Cover Letter

Your cover letter plays an important role in your job search, because it's a quick summary intended to tease or intrigue a recruiter into wanting to read your resume. An effective cover letter can convince the recruiter to devote time to actually reading your resume instead of the typical few seconds recruiters spend reviewing most.

Not sending a cover letter or sending a cover letter on something other than professional-grade paper can ruin your chances for an interview. Reviewing some cover letter letterhead ideas and expertly written cover letter examples you can find on the internet will help you decide which strategy is best for you.

About Business Letterhead

Aside from business cards and a website, organizations use letterhead to give their written correspondence a professional look. Business letterhead generally has an individual's or company's name, address, telephone numbers and URL in a prominent space on the paper, usually at the top of the page. Personal stationery usually isn't called letterhead, but regardless of the term, letterhead isn't required for a cover letter. Using a company's business letterhead to write a cover letter is an absolute no-no.

About Personalized Stationery

Individuals also create letterhead for sending personal letters, or letters to government agencies or other businesses. Imprinted stationery is ideal for writing letters to friends and family, or for thank-you notes to express your appreciation for a gift or gesture. In fact, imprinted stationery is a classic sign of proper etiquette for personal correspondence.

Using your personal stationery for cover letters may not be entirely appropriate, depending on its style, font and the paper color. Stationery designed for personal use is best reserved for personal correspondence, not business letters.

Many resume experts recommend using the same heading for your cover letter and resume, according to LiveCareer . This makes your presentation look more coordinated and professional. If you are paying for a cover letter and resume, ask for the headings on both to be the same.

Business Correspondence Practices

Cover letters are business correspondence and, as such, should be on plain white bond paper or stationery that doesn't have any kind of personal design. Although some job seekers have personalized stationery that has a more professional look than personal stationery, employers don't require it. In fact, most employers are likely to prefer plain white or off-white bond paper over imprinted stationery, if the stationery has an obviously personal touch.

Cover Letter Paper

Choose plain white or off-white bond paper for your cover letter if your stationery looks more suitable for personal correspondence rather than a business letter. The paper you select for your cover letter should match the paper on which your resume is printed. If you have your resume professionally printed, buy additional sheets of the same paper for your cover letter.

Cover Letter Format

Use standard business format for your cover letter. A plethora of online resources depict sample cover letter formats. You have a couple of options for setting up the format for your inside address: Type your name, address, city, state and ZIP code across the top of the page, 1 inch from the top of the page and centered. Alternatively, type your name and inside address flush with the left margin, again, 1 inch from the top of the page.

• LiveCareer: Cover Letter Format Should Match Your Resume
• JezWeb: Importance of Letterhead to Your Business

Ruth Mayhew has been writing since the mid-1980s, and she has been an HR subject matter expert since 1995. Her work appears in "The Multi-Generational Workforce in the Health Care Industry," and she has been cited in numerous publications, including journals and textbooks that focus on human resources management practices. She holds a Master of Arts in sociology from the University of Missouri-Kansas City. Ruth resides in the nation's capital, Washington, D.C.

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How to write a great cover letter in 2024: tips and structure

A cover letter is a personalized letter that introduces you to a potential employer, highlights your qualifications, and explains why you're a strong fit for a specific job.

Hate or love them, these brief documents allow job seekers to make an impression and stand out from the pile of other applications. Penning a thoughtful cover letter shows the hiring team you care about earning the position.

Here’s everything you need to know about how to write a cover letter — and a great one, at that.

What is a cover letter and why does it matter?

A professional cover letter is a one-page document you submit alongside your CV or resume as part of a job application. Typically, they’re about half a page or around 150–300 words.

An effective cover letter doesn’t just rehash your CV; it’s your chance to highlight your proudest moments, explain why you want the job, and state plainly what you bring to the table.

Show the reviewer you’re likable, talented, and will add to the company’s culture . You can refer to previous jobs and other information from your CV, but only if it helps tell a story about you and your career choices .

What 3 things should you include in a cover letter?

A well-crafted cover letter can help you stand out to potential employers. To make your cover letter shine, here are three key elements to include:

1. Personalization

Address the hiring manager or recruiter by name whenever possible. If the job posting doesn't include a name, research to find out who will be reviewing applications. Personalizing your cover letter shows that you've taken the time to tailor your application to the specific company and role.

2. Highlight relevant achievements and skills

Emphasize your most relevant skills , experiences, and accomplishments that directly relate to the job you're applying for. Provide specific examples of how your skills have benefited previous employers and how they can contribute to the prospective employer's success. Use quantifiable achievements , such as improved efficiency, cost savings, or project success, to demonstrate your impact.

3. Show enthusiasm and fit

Express your enthusiasm for the company and the position you're applying for. Explain why you are interested in this role and believe you are a good fit for the organization. Mention how your values, goals, and skills align with the company's mission and culture. Demonstrating that you've done your research can make a significant impression.

What do hiring managers look for in a cover letter?

Employers look for several key elements in a cover letter. These include:

Employers want to see that your cover letter is specifically tailored to the position you are applying for. It should demonstrate how your skills, experiences, and qualifications align with the job requirements.

Clear and concise writing

A well-written cover letter is concise, easy to read, and error-free. Employers appreciate clear and effective communication skills , so make sure your cover letter showcases your ability to express yourself effectively.

Demonstrated knowledge of the company

Employers want to see that you are genuinely interested in their organization. Mention specific details about the company, such as recent achievements or projects, to show that you are enthusiastic about joining their team.

Achievements and accomplishments

Highlight your relevant achievements and accomplishments that demonstrate your qualifications for the position. Use specific examples to showcase your skills and show how they can benefit the employer.

Enthusiasm and motivation

Employers want to hire candidates who are excited about the opportunity and motivated to contribute to the company's success. Express your enthusiasm and passion for the role and explain why you are interested in working for the company.

Professionalism

A cover letter should be professional in tone and presentation. Use formal language, address the hiring manager appropriately, and follow standard business letter formatting.

How do you structure a cover letter?

A well-structured cover letter follows a specific format that makes it easy for the reader to understand your qualifications and enthusiasm for the position. Here's a typical structure for a cover letter:

Contact information

Include your name, address, phone number, and email address at the top of the letter. Place your contact information at the beginning so that it's easy for the employer to reach you.

Employer's contact information

Opening paragraph, middle paragraph(s), closing paragraph, complimentary close, additional contact information.

Repeat your contact information (name, phone number, and email) at the end of the letter, just in case the employer needs it for quick reference.

Remember to keep your cover letter concise and focused. It should typically be no more than one page in length. Proofread your letter carefully to ensure it is free from spelling and grammatical errors. Tailor each cover letter to the specific job application to make it as relevant and impactful as possible.

How to write a good cover letter (with examples)

The best letters are unique, tailored to the job description, and written in your voice — but that doesn’t mean you can’t use a job cover letter template.

Great cover letters contain the same basic elements and flow a certain way. Take a look at this cover letter structure for ref erence while you construct your own.

1. Add a header and contact information

While reading your cover letter, the recruiter shouldn’t have to look far to find who wrote it. Your document should include a basic heading with the following information:

• Pronouns (optional)
• Location (optional)
• Email address
• Phone number (optional)
• Relevant links, such as your LinkedIn profile , portfolio, or personal website (optional)

You can pull this information directly from your CV. Put it together, and it will look something like this:

Christopher Pike

San Francisco, California

[email protected]

Alternatively, if the posting asks you to submit your cover letter in the body of an email, you can include this information in your signature. For example:

Warm regards,

Catherine Janeway

Bloomington, Indiana

[email protected]

(555) 999 - 2222

2. Include a personal greeting

Always begin your cover letter by addressing the hiring manager — preferably by name. You can use the person’s first and last name. Make sure to include a relevant title, like Dr., Mr., or Ms. For example, “Dear Mr. John Doe.”

Avoid generic openings like “To whom it may concern,” “Dear sir or madam,” or “Dear hiring manager.” These introductions sound impersonal — like you’re copy-pasting cover letters — and can work against you in the hiring process.

Be careful, though. When using someone’s name, you don’t want to use the wrong title or accidentally misgender someone. If in doubt, using only their name is enough. You could also opt for a gender-neutral title, like Mx.

Make sure you’re addressing the right person in your letter — ideally, the person who’s making the final hiring decision. This isn’t always specified in the job posting, so you may have to do some research to learn the name of the hiring manager.

3. Draw them in with an opening story

The opening paragraph of your cover letter should hook the reader. You want it to be memorable, conversational, and extremely relevant to the job you’re pursuing. 

There’s no need for a personal introduction — you’ve already included your name in the heading. But you should make reference to the job you’re applying for. A simple “Thank you for considering my application for the role of [job title] at [company],” will suffice.

Then you can get into the “Why” of your job application. Drive home what makes this specific job and this company so appealing to you. Perhaps you’re a fan of their products, you’re passionate about their mission, or you love their brand voice. Whatever the case, this section is where you share your enthusiasm for the role.

Here’s an example opening paragraph. In this scenario, you’re applying for a digital marketing role at a bicycle company:

“Dear Mr. John Doe,

Thank you for considering my application for the role of Marketing Coordinator at Bits n’ Bikes.

My parents bought my first bike at one of your stores. I’ll never forget the freedom I felt when I learned to ride it. My father removed my training wheels, and my mom sent me barrelling down the street. You provide joy to families across the country — and I want to be part of that.”

4. Emphasize why you’re best for the job

Your next paragraphs should be focused on the role you’re applying to. Highlight your skill set and why you’re a good fit for the needs and expectations associated with the position. Hiring managers want to know what you’ll bring to the job, not just any role.

Start by studying the job description for hints. What problem are they trying to solve with this hire? What skills and qualifications do they mention first or more than once? These are indicators of what’s important to the hiring manager.

Search for details that match your experience and interests. For example, if you’re excited about a fast-paced job in public relations, you might look for these elements in a posting:

• They want someone who can write social media posts and blog content on tight deadlines
• They value collaboration and input from every team member
• They need a planner who can come up with strong PR strategies

Highlight how you fulfill these requirements:

“I’ve always been a strong writer. From blog posts to social media, my content pulls in readers and drives traffic to product pages. For example, when I worked at Bits n’ Bikes, I developed a strategic blog series about bike maintenance that increased our sales of spare parts and tools by 50% — we could see it in our web metrics.

Thanks to the input of all of our team members, including our bike mechanics, my content delivered results.”

5. End with a strong closing paragraph and sign off gracefully

Your closing paragraph is your final chance to hammer home your enthusiasm about the role and your unique ability to fill it. Reiterate the main points you explained in the body paragraphs and remind the reader of what you bring to the table.

You can also use the end of your letter to relay other important details, like whether you’re willing to relocate for the job.

When choosing a sign-off, opt for a phrase that sounds professional and genuine. Reliable options include “Sincerely” and “Kind regards.”

Here’s a strong closing statement for you to consider:

“I believe my enthusiasm, skills, and work experience as a PR professional will serve Bits n’ Bikes very well. I would love to meet to further discuss my value-add as your next Director of Public Relations. Thank you for your consideration. I hope we speak soon.

Tips to write a great cover letter that compliments your resume

When writing your own letter, try not to copy the example excerpts word-for-word. Instead, use this cover letter structure as a baseline to organize your ideas. Then, as you’re writing, use these extra cover letter tips to add your personal touch:

• Keep your cover letter different from your resume : Your cover letter should not duplicate the information on your resume. Instead, it should provide context and explanations for key points in your resume, emphasizing how your qualifications match the specific job you're applying for.
• Customize your cover letter . Tailor your cover letter for each job application. Address the specific needs of the company and the job posting, demonstrating that you've done your homework and understand their requirements.
• Show enthusiasm and fit . Express your enthusiasm for the company and position in the cover letter. Explain why you are interested in working for this company and how your values, goals, and skills align with their mission and culture.
• Use keywords . Incorporate keywords from the job description and industry terms in your cover letter. This can help your application pass through applicant tracking systems (ATS) and demonstrate that you're well-versed in the field.
• Keep it concise . Your cover letter should be succinct and to the point, typically no more than one page. Focus on the most compelling qualifications and experiences that directly support your application.
• Be professional . Maintain a professional tone and structure in your cover letter. Proofread it carefully to ensure there are no errors.
• Address any gaps or concerns . If there are gaps or concerns in your resume, such as employment gaps or a change in career direction, briefly address them in your cover letter. Explain any relevant circumstances and how they have shaped your qualifications and determination.
• Provide a call to action . Conclude your cover letter with a call to action, inviting the employer to contact you for further discussion. Mention that you've attached your resume for their reference.
• Follow the correct format . Use a standard cover letter format like the one above, including your contact information, a formal salutation, introductory and closing paragraphs, and your signature. Ensure that it complements your resume without redundancy.
• Pick the right voice and tone . Try to write like yourself, but adapt to the tone and voice of the company. Look at the job listing, company website, and social media posts. Do they sound fun and quirky, stoic and professional, or somewhere in-between? This guides your writing style.
• Tell your story . You’re an individual with unique expertise, motivators, and years of experience. Tie the pieces together with a great story. Introduce how you arrived at this point in your career, where you hope to go , and how this prospective company fits in your journey. You can also explain any career changes in your resume.
• Show, don’t tell . Anyone can say they’re a problem solver. Why should a recruiter take their word for it if they don’t back it up with examples? Instead of naming your skills, show them in action. Describe situations where you rose to the task, and quantify your success when you can.
• Be honest . Avoid highlighting skills you don’t have. This will backfire if they ask you about them in an interview. Instead, shift focus to the ways in which you stand out.
• Avoid clichés and bullet points . These are signs of lazy writing. Do your best to be original from the first paragraph to the final one. This highlights your individuality and demonstrates the care you put into the letter.
• Proofread . Always spellcheck your cover letter. Look for typos, grammatical errors, and proper flow. We suggest reading it out loud. If it sounds natural rolling off the tongue, it will read naturally as well.

Common cover letter writing FAQs

How long should a cover letter be.

A cover letter should generally be concise and to the point. It is recommended to keep it to one page or less, focusing on the most relevant information that highlights your qualifications and fits the job requirements.

Should I include personal information in a cover letter?

While it's important to introduce yourself and provide your contact information, avoid including personal details such as your age, marital status, or unrelated hobbies. Instead, focus on presenting your professional qualifications and aligning them with the job requirements.

Can I use the same cover letter for multiple job applications?

While it may be tempting to reuse a cover letter, it is best to tailor each cover letter to the specific job you are applying for. This allows you to highlight why you are a good fit for that particular role and show genuine interest in the company.

Do I need to address my cover letter to a specific person?

Whenever possible, it is advisable to address your cover letter to a specific person, such as the hiring manager or recruiter. If the job posting does not provide this information, try to research and find the appropriate contact. If all else fails, you can use a generic salutation such as "Dear Hiring Manager."

Should I include references in my cover letter?

It is generally not necessary to include references in your cover letter. Save this information for when the employer explicitly requests it. Instead, focus on showcasing your qualifications and achievements that make you a strong candidate for the position.

It’s time to start writing your stand-out cover letter

The hardest part of writing is getting started. 

Hopefully, our tips gave you some jumping-off points and confidence . But if you’re really stuck, looking at cover letter examples and resume templates will help you decide where to get started. 

There are numerous sample cover letters available online. Just remember that you’re a unique, well-rounded person, and your cover letter should reflect that. Using our structure, you can tell your story while highlighting your passion for the role. 

Doing your research, including strong examples of your skills, and being courteous is how to write a strong cover letter. Take a breath , flex your fingers, and get typing. Before you know it, your job search will lead to a job interview.

If you want more personalized guidance, a specialized career coach can help review, edit, and guide you through creating a great cover letter that sticks.

Ace your job search

Explore effective job search techniques, interview strategies, and ways to overcome job-related challenges. Our coaches specialize in helping you land your dream job.

Elizabeth Perry, ACC

Elizabeth Perry is a Coach Community Manager at BetterUp. She uses strategic engagement strategies to cultivate a learning community across a global network of Coaches through in-person and virtual experiences, technology-enabled platforms, and strategic coaching industry partnerships. With over 3 years of coaching experience and a certification in transformative leadership and life coaching from Sofia University, Elizabeth leverages transpersonal psychology expertise to help coaches and clients gain awareness of their behavioral and thought patterns, discover their purpose and passions, and elevate their potential. She is a lifelong student of psychology, personal growth, and human potential as well as an ICF-certified ACC transpersonal life and leadership Coach.

3 cover letter examples to help you catch a hiring manager’s attention

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Breaking news, robert de niro clashes with trump supporters: letters to the editor — may 30, 2024.

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The Issue: Robert De Niro yelling at Trump supporters after saying former prez should get jail time.

Robert De Niro’s disconnected tirade directed at former President Trump is reminiscent of President Biden and the mainstream media in that they all have a frenzied, unsubstantiated belief that Trump is a threat to American democracy ( “Raging Bull­sh*t,” May 29).

They continue to paint this farcical characterization of Trump as opposed to speaking to the real issues that impact the average American on a daily basis, like inflation.

The fact that they keep up this feeble approach is indicative of how futile and ineffective the Biden administration’s policies have been.

The indictment of Trump is obviously a political hit job and exposes how the criminal-justice system has been weaponized to eliminate the political opponents of the establishment.

Denis David

East Rockaway

I have to admit I really enjoyed watching Robert De Niro yell at Trump supporters.

I was never a fan, but his histrionics are so outrageous.

When De Niro takes it to the next level you can’t help watching.

Juno Beach, Fla.

Leave it to The Post to condemn Robert De Niro for standing up for his beliefs and America’s democracy.

Everything De Niro said was factual and true.

Donald Trump is the biggest threat to our democracy since the Civil War — and, like dictators before him, he continues to fool people with his endless lies.

Not only does Trump not belong in power, he should not be living free in our beautiful democracy.

He should be locked up for being an enemy of America (as should several members of his family, for that matter).

Kreg Ramone

It was certainly not an Oscar-winning performance by any means.

It was actually pathetic to watch an accomplished actor stoop to this level by commanding the mic with his bully-infused performance.

Ronald G. Frank

West Orange, NJ

As a registered independent who considers Donald Trump an unlettered, inarticulate buffoon, I nonetheless take issue with Robert De Niro’s vulgar press conference outside the Manhattan courthouse where POTUS 45 awaits his fate in the hush money trial.

De Niro’s display of raging incoherence is typical of this overrated thespian.

Rosario A. Iaconis

De Niro would rather return to four more years of punishing inflation, rampant civil unrest, a dysfunctional border and international conflagrations simply because of a personal animus against Trump.

The time spent bashing Trump could have been better used this weekend in honoring our brave Americans who gave their lives for our freedoms.

Anthony Bruno

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Reading about the latest rants of De Niro in this paper reaffirms to me the Dems’ lunacy.

Liberals have hit the panic button since voters saw their threats about Trump in 2020 never come to fruition.

I guess after seeing the Trump supporter press conferences and rallies recently, the DNC wanted to duplicate what Trump supporters have been achieving.

But bringing in De Niro seems like the typical Democratic playbook of using liberal Hollywood entertainers to spread messaging.

It’s especially disappointing from someone, like De Niro, who has such a huge and diverse fan base.

Greg Raleigh

Washington, DC

Robert De Niro made a fool of himself going on this tantrum about Trump.

De Niro represents the Democratic Party, which is only out for votes.

It’s about time voters open their eyes and realize Democrats don’t have their interests at heart.

Let’s hope it’s a clean sweep for Republicans in 2024, so we can get this country back to where it used to be, before it’s too late.

Bill McCreary

I don’t know what gives celebrities the impression that they know more than the rest of us.

Joel M. Glazer

Elizabeth, NJ

Want to weigh in on today’s stories? Send your thoughts (along with your full name and city of residence) to [email protected]. Letters are subject to editing for clarity, length, accuracy, and style.

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It's a horror. Ohio teachers' pension must be protected from predatory raiders.

Predators out for strs, retired teachers need cola, people before fountains, memorial day is not the same as veterans day.

Re "Teachers can't turn $90 billion nest egg over to STRS corporate raiders," May 24: Roger Mason’s guest column May 24 is correct about events at the State Teachers Retirement System. He understands this predatory behavior and puts it in context.

Having taught finance for 30 years, I have watched with horror as individuals, under the pretense of safeguarding our system, set about raiding the funds. I have warned that numbers being spouted by these raiders doesn’t add up and that good investment professionals cost money.

STRS has received high marks for safeguarding our funds. At no point has a credible report said that there were problems with the fund’s health. The issues have been with governance and transparency.

More: Corporate raiders want to turn Ohio teachers' pension fund into shameful footnote

Turning those issues around takes time and consideration.

It is appropriate to watch the board as it proceeds. It is not appropriate to hand billions of dollars to untried investors with no track record of success.

It is interesting that the “reformers” were happy with Attorney General Dave Yost’s investigation. When Yost indicated their claims would also be looked at and dealt with, they became less than enthusiastic about having it proceed. Suddenly, the investigation is “politicizing the board.”

So, thank you, Mr. Mason, you must have been one heck of a good teacher. Colleen E. Cunningham, Columbus

Mariyam Muhammad needs to get her facts correct. In her May 26 story, "When Is Memorial Day? When Is Labor Day?", she states Memorial Day is a day that honors all military veterans, living and dead.

Memorial Day honors all veterans who have sacrificed their lives for this country, not living veterans. Veterans Day honors all military veterans.

Michael DiPalma, Marysville

The fountain at Scioto Mile is a great attraction for families. But I do wonder who makes these decisions.

At last count in January there were 2,380 unhoused people living in our midst. One only has to drive around any neighborhood in the city to see scores of the unhoused.

Doesn’t it seem like we should address that issue first, and when all the needed affordable housing is established for our neighbors, we can celebrate by building a new fountain?

It’s a real disconnect to see tax abatements for developers building high-end apartments, while a man calling for a shelter bed this week is told that there are 100-200 men in the queue before him.

More: 'We have run out of housing': Homelessness is at an all-time high again in Columbus

Why not focus tax abatements on building affordable apartments? If the city thinks the $15 million fountain will be an attraction to new residents, they might consider how the humans begging for help everywhere appears to the new people, and maybe use some of the funds to feed the one in 6 children who are hungry.

The mayor and city council appear to be clueless.

Diane Donato, Columbus

I am a retired teacher, having retired after 33 years of service with Columbus Public Schools. I retired in 1998. I agree with everything that James Slone said in his letter to the editor published May 23, except for one item.  

I, and hundreds of other teachers my age, have not had a cost-of-living raise since 2013. That means that in 11 years, my retirement has only gone up 4%, but the cost of living has probably gone up over 35%.

During those 11 years, the other public retirement systems in Ohio have consistently given cost of living adjustments to their retirees. And to top it off, I only receive one-third of my earned Social Security benefits because I have a public pension. Please help us.

Winifred McFarland, Columbus

Letters: Mayor D.C. Reeves needs to leave downtown alone; Collegiate protesting not pretty

Opinions expressed in Letters to the Editor are those of our readers and not the Pensacola News Journal. In order for letters to be considered for publication, they must be 250 words or less and include name, a full address and phone number. Only your name and city of residence will be published. Email submissions to [email protected] .

Mayor Reeves needs to leave downtown alone

Regarding the reimagining of Palafox according to D.C. Reeves . In other words, reinventing the wheel. Do not touch anymore parking because it’s a mess already thanks to you and an out of state meter business. Palafox is crowded, so start moving things off Palafox and broaden downtown to the east and west. And cancel the hotel before there is no waterfront to see.

Jeanne Hagan, Pensacola

We should educate ourselves more before speaking

Thomas Kaiser (May 5, 2024) asks readers to "prove him wrong" regarding the use of open carry guns for defense. Unintentionally I am sure, he proved himself wrong!

An armed individual is less likely to be beset by criminals intent on causing bodily harm so it is only common sense that the necessity of use would be limited. Most statistical data indicates a reduction in crime in permit-less open carry states. Perhaps this is because a gutless thug is less likely to attack if his victim can hurt him.

The AR-15 and the AK-47 are not fully automatic weapons and aren't "military-grade" as Mr. Kaiser suggests. I seriously doubt he even knows which end of a gun shoots but instead vomits left-winged talking points.

In a somewhat related issue, I am appalled by the vitriolic tripe emitted by the pro-Palestine nitwits. If ignorance is bliss, they must have attained nirvana. When asked what their chants mean most don't have a clue but instead regurgitate liberal talking points.

I believe everyone should educate themselves before speaking on any subject rather than just using well-worn platitudes, whether it be a college student or just your average PNJ reader.

Delta Hixon, Pace

Readers don't hold back: Letters: Trump is attacked only because he can win; Pensacola’s evacuation routes stifled

End Kidney Deaths Act can save Florida lives

When I donated my kidney to my friend, I had no idea that the kidney shortage was harming and killing so many Floridians. Each year, over 9,000 new cases of kidney failure or end-stage renal disease (ESRD) are diagnosed in Florida. Those with kidney failure have two options for survival: begin dialysis or get a kidney transplant.

Dialysis is a procedure that is taxing on the heart. A machine acts as a patient’s own kidneys to clean and filter blood. While dialysis can extend a person’s life, 80 percent of patients on dialysis are too sick to work and dialysis costs taxpayers an average of $50 billion dollars per year. One dollar out of every 100 collected tax dollars is spent on dialysis. 36,000 Floridians are currently depending on dialysis to stay alive.

But what about the better option, a kidney transplant? Living kidney transplants last on average twice as long as deceased donor kidneys, making them the gold standard in treatment. In Florida, the wait time for a new kidney can be five years or longer because of the kidney shortage. Over 4,000 Floridians are on the transplant wait list right now.

What can we do to increase the number of living kidney donors? One innovative solution is to remove disincentives that living kidney donors experience. Learn more about the End Kidney Deaths Act and how providing $50,000 in tax incentives over five years to living donors will save lives and taxpayer dollars.

Megan Sherod, Crestview

History of collegiate protesting is not pretty

Kent State is where national guards killed a bunch of students over the Vietnam War. The Tiananmen Square massacre was China’s debacle with a student stopping a Russian mega-tank. Students in Pakistan back then came over to our schools missing eyeballs from their government’s brutality.

While a physics graduate PhD candidate student, I noticed this in the early 90s how Chinese and other nationalities were victims of government abuse. Chinese and Russian students malnourished beyond belief. War is a scary thing even if you’re not in it, and there’s so much money to be made from it. Greed overpowers human’s rights to survive.

Like the south westerly winds, history will never allow such stories to be taught in government-controlled schools, and like nuclear fallout during cold war times, we citizen’s duck and cover like scared rabbits while college students find valuable time to protest.

I didn’t need to protest in college during the early and mid-90s for Clinton was closing military bases and putting our national debt deep into the black, but it only took the next president, like the solar panels on the White House, to throw peace out the window and get us back into the red with all the killing.

A vicious cycle repeated through unwritten history only college students might remember.

Sterling Arthur Leonard, Pensacola

Time for large-scale climate action is now

The Guardian has long been a strong advocate for addressing global warming – which the newspaper refers to as global heating to emphasize the seriousness of climate change. Recently, the Guardian conducted a poll of climate scientists around the world, and the results only reinforce the idea that we are creating what some have called an uninhabitable earth.

The dire situation is, perhaps, best illustrated by the tipping points that climate scientists project in the very near future. I constantly experience a struggle between fear for the future we are creating for our children and their children and hope that we will wake up to the reality before it is too late. There is some reason to believe that we may be approaching a social tipping point to help us avoid the otherwise inevitable climate tipping points.

For example, a slight increase in warming could cause the collapse of the Greenland ice sheet, the Amazon rainforest, and a critical current in the Atlantic Ocean that helps moderate the climate in Europe and much of the world. Pushing beyond these thresholds would have dire consequences, increasing the likelihood that the earth will become uninhabitable.

We need to move beyond a social tipping point and discover the political will to support large-scale climate action sufficient to avoid climate chaos.

Larry Chamblin, Pensacola

Hear from our readers: Letters: Flora-Bama must stop tossing real mullets and use PETA-provided rubber fish

Keep Moms for Liberty off Santa Rosa School Board

Santa Rosa County Public Schools provide education for every child to learn skills and information to become our future leaders. Public schools provide experiences for students to work together with respect for each other.

Students learn different ideas and cultures and use critical thinking to solve problems. High quality education promotes productive citizens. Santa Rosa County Public Schools consistently are in the top 10 schools in Florida.

Our public schools are under attack from Moms for Liberty, who want to restrict free speech, factual information and inclusion of students. They attack the very decency of respect for others while promoting hate and fear. Moms for Liberty members are school board candidates in Santa Rosa County.

Stop the Moms for Liberty from winning in the seats to be on the Santa Rosa County School Board at the primary elections in August. Vote for our incumbent school board members who care about education and protecting students and teachers. Protect free expression of ideas, discussions, and books. Protect our students, our schools, and our community. Your vote in the August primaries is critical!

Helaine Gottschalk, Milton

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