Calling the Toronto Star: Your Guide to Reaching the Media Mammoth (Without Getting Lost in the Classifieds)
Let's face it, sometimes you just gotta contact the Toronto Star. Maybe you have a news tip so juicy it'd make Rob Ford blush, or perhaps you're an expert on exploding squirrels and they need your wisdom for their next headline. Whatever your reason, navigating the media giant can be trickier than finding a decent parking spot downtown. Fear not, intrepid citizen, for this guide will have you reaching the Star faster than you can say "broken news!"
Phoning a Friend (or Foe?): The Art of the Hotline
Hold on to your hats, folks, because phone numbers are a thing of the past! (Okay, maybe not entirely, but the Star themself recommends using their online form for most inquiries.) That said, if you're feeling old school and have a hankering for a dial tone serenade, here are some numbers you can try (though they might not be the direct line to the editor's office):
- General Inquiries: (416) 869-4321
- Subscriber Services: (416) 869-4444
Remember, patience is a virtue! Getting through to a live person might take longer than waiting for the streetcar on a Sunday.
The Wonderful World of Web Forms: Clickety-Clacking Your Way to Contact
The Toronto Star champions the digital age (and rightfully so!). Their website offers a variety of forms for different inquiries. Here's a quick rundown:
- Got a News Tip? Spill the beans! https://www.thestar.com/site/faq/how-do-i-submit-a-news-tip-or-news-release-to-the-i-star-i/article_e5bbd57e-af02-11ed-a1da-e779f26f42af.html
- Subscription Woes? Fret no more! https://www.thestar.com/site/faq/how-can-i-contact-you/article_b436f8ce-ad65-11ed-81d7-9fee36645d9e.html (This is also the place to go for issues with the classifieds...unless your problem is a rogue toaster that keeps responding to "Vehicles Wanted" ads.)
- Advertising Inquiries? Thinking of selling your slightly-used collection of porcelain unicorns? https://www.thestar.com/site/faq/how-do-i-place-an-ad-in-the-i-star-i/article_d9363e78-ad33-11ed-be84-1330d0f98c04.html
Pro Tip: Be clear and concise in your message. No one wants to wade through a novel-length email about your neighbour's particularly enthusiastic lawn gnome collection (unless it's actually a hotbed of political espionage...in which case, the Star might be very interested).
Let's Get Social: Tweeting the Star into Submission (Just Kidding, But Seriously)
The Star has a strong social media presence. While you might not get the CEO's direct attention with a witty tweet, it can be a good way to get a general message across or find the right department to contact. Here's where you can find them:
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/torontostar?lang=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/torontostar/
Word to the Wise: Social media is a public forum. Keep your rants and conspiracy theories to yourself, unless you're aiming to go viral for all the wrong reasons.
Frequently Asked Questions (Because We Know You Have Them)
How to Contact a Specific Reporter?
Your best bet is to try emailing the Star's general news tip email (https://www.thestar.com/site/faq/how-do-i-submit-a-news-tip-or-news-release-to-the-i-star-i/article_e5bbd57e-af02-11ed-a1da-e779f26f42af.html) and mentioning the reporter you'd like to reach.
How to Submit a Letter to the Editor?
The Star accepts letters to the editor online! https://www.thestar.com/opinion/letters-to-the-editor/
How to Place a Classified Ad?
The Star has (shockingly!) a classifieds section online. https://www.starclassifieds.com/
How to Cancel My Subscription?
We feel your pain. Head over to the Star's subscriber services page https://www.thestar.com/site/faq/how-can-i-contact-you/article_b436f8ce-ad65-11ed-81d7-9fee36645d9e.html
How to Get My Name in the Paper (Besides the Obituary Section)?
This one might be a stretch, but hey, do good things and maybe you'll get noticed! (Unless you're a superhero, then by all means, contact the Star with your amazing feats.)
