Put some pop in your package with a well-crafted lift note.

By Jerry Huntsinger

Flattery? Sure. And why not? Who doesn’t like to be flattered? I sure do. Don’t tell me I’m short, fat and stupid. Or even tall, skinny and selfish as a dung beetle on road kill. Tell me how wonderful I am. I’ll be your friend for life.

3. Report the most urgent breaking news! “This just in from the Philippines: Super Typhoon Sara ravishes the island. Thank God the children are safe, in spite of the roof blowing away in the middle of the night.” Or, if you’re dealing with a legislative appeal, report on the most recent vote in the Senate. Or, if oceans are your thing, tell about the most recent oil spill in pristine Glacier Bay.