I think we all know how hard it is to get the attention of mainstream media these days. It seems they are much more interested in crime sprees and death tolls.
But - let me ask you this...how long has it been since you have even made the effort to pitch a story?
I'm not talking about sending in the monthly meeting information or a show flyer - those aren't what a Publicity Chair is about. Yes - those are important but those are event listings and that is all you are going to see from them.
How long has it been since you have actually pitched a story?
Check out this great example from the Tampa Tribune...a human interest story that looks at the way this gentleman is spending his golden years...he is a lapidarist!
BROOKSVILLE Stars, fans, rainbows, waterfalls. With a good eye and a little imagination, there's a lot the beholder can see in one of Wesley Crail's gem stones.
Crail, 87, of Spring Hill, is among the few keeping alive the dying art of custom gem cutting.
The retired steel worker and gunsmith calls himself a lapidarist — an expert on precious stones and the art of cutting and polishing them.
The Leechburg, Pa., native began cutting gems in 1988.
For the entire story see the Tampa Bay Online website...
There are all sorts of angles that a Club can use:
- Human Interest - Seniors actually make up the majority in this country and stories that give an insight into activities and especially social programs have interest
- Outdoor Activities - here in Southern California the weather is great for fieldtrips year-round! have you ever pitched a Field Trip report to your local paper? Our paper has a special Outdoor Page that covers hiking, bicycling, etc. that publishes once a week!
- Education - does your paper have a kids page? submit a puzzle! Pitch the Earth Sciences angle of your Annual Gem Show! Collaborate with the local paper on an Earth Science writing project with the local schools.
Promote your club...sit down with your committee members - see if you can come up with more!
