How to Share the Good News about Scouting with Your Hometown Newspapers
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Scouting offers a proven program of character-building and good citizenship through the many opportunities that it provides for learning, community service, fun and adventure. As a volunteer leader in the Scouting program, you are in the unique position to share the good news about Scouting with your hometown newspaper. When articles are printed about Scouting, it helps to:
Occasions for Articles Newspapers are always looking for positive, local stories. Some of the stories that you could share about your Scout pack or troop include:
These are just a few ideas for possible stories to submit to your local paper. Remember - a picture is worth a thousand words. Always try to submit a photograph with your news or announcements. How to Write a Press Release Keep the following points in mind when writing your press release. Also think about the newsworthiness of the event. For example, do not just write a release on a car wash, but instead look at the news angle. Where do proceeds from the car was go? A newsworthy car was may be one that the funds go to taking underprivileged kids on a leadership building camp for the first time. What is Your News? The purpose of a press release is to inform the area of your news item. A good press release answers all of the "W" questions (who, what, when, where, and why), providing the media with useful information about your unit, service or event. Start Strong. Your headline and first paragraph should tell the story. The rest of your press release should provide the details. You have a matter of seconds to grab your reader's attention. Write for the Media. Many times newspapers will pick up your press release and run it in their publication with little or no modification to what you send. Economy of Words. Use only enough words to tell your story. Avoid using unnecessary adjectives, flowery language, or redundant expressions such as "added bonus" or "first time ever." If you can tell your story with fewer words, do it. Wordiness detracts from your story. Keep it concise. Make each word count. Get Permission. Companies are very protective about their reputation. Be sure that you have permission before including information from employees or affiliates of other companies or organizations. Format. Never submit a press release in all upper case letters. This is very bad form. Use mixed case. Always double space between the lines in the body of the press release. Correct Grammar Usage. Always follow the rules of grammar and style. Errors in grammar and style affect your credibility. Don't forget to write, print, proofread, rewrite and edit. For more information, view the Flint River Council Public Relations Manual. |