The Catholic Sentinel is the diocesan newspaper for the Archdiocese of Portland and the Diocese of Baker, Oregon. We are a weekly tabloid, usually about 20 pages. Our focus is local and specific — we are interested in Oregon people and Oregon issues. Our readers have access to other media for other information; our local niche is unique. We have use for the following materials from freelancers:

• Feature stories about local Catholics living out their faith. These profiles may run in the range of 600 to 1,500 words. Payment for these features is competitive for the market and depends on the effort involved and the quality of the work. We generally ask the freelancer to arrange for a photo; if there’s any charge, the Sentinel pays it, but we would need to coordinate beforehand.
• Columns about local, national or international issues of interest. These columns run 600 words. From freelancers, we prefer some direct experience with the topic and some local connection. We use a mugshot of the writer with the column. We do not pay for these pieces.
• Letters to the editor. We prefer these to be 150 words; and we reserve the right to cut them for space or appropriateness. No payment.
• News items about parish, school and parishioners' events. Send press release by email, or mail it to Catholic Sentinel, P.O. Box 18030, Portland, OR 97218.

Guidelines

1. Always query first. Bob Pfohman, editor, makes all assignments.

2. Please use standard manuscript format: double-spaced, with the writer’s name and a slug on every page, a writer’s name and address and a rough word count on page 1. For more information about these manuscript standards see any writer’s reference manual.

3. We can receive stories electronically; we can also receive files in our ftp space. If you get an assignment and want to use these options, please discuss them with us.