Her readers and reviewers call her a word artist. No two books are alike. So, when I decided to write a novel, I wrote to Ms. Roberts and asked for her secret.

We intend to publish as many letters as feasible the following week. Newsday, as always, reserves the right to edit letters for clarity and brevity. We look forward to your responses.

What has happened in the Ashville region should be yet another wake-up call for us humans and our so-called leaders. But will this one actually result in any substantial change? Not likely.

Letters may be up to 200 words and must be signed with your email address, city of residence and daytime phone number for verification. Letters will be edited for clarity and length.

3. Take public action — If you feel called to do more, write an editorial, make a public comment or join efforts that support those impacted by current policies.

All letters, limited to 250 words, should be on topics that affect the public. Letters must include an address and telephone number for verification purposes.