Public Relations lives and dies with the spirit, passion and fearlessness of each member of the Knights of Columbus.  Just what does that mean and just what do we do?

Years ago, I was the publicity man for a fledgling sport, professional drag racing.  The sport as not accepted at all by the press and I couldn't get any traction, (excuse the expression).  But I was a fanatic and believed in the sport.  I kept knocking on the doors of the area's top sports writers and newscasters.  I sent them photos and stories, along with complimentary passes.  Gradually, they let me in.  I did have a story to tell, they just weren't listening.  It turned out that automotive racing was (and is) in the top three spectator sports in the country. They just didn't believe it.

Before you knew it, they were writing stories about me.  This came as a shock, but I realized I had made friends.  That's what it takes.  Developing relationships with people in the media overcomes all barriers, even religious ones.  But, it takes passion, work and time.

Some of us complain that we don't get enough coverage in the media, however that "media" is defined, whether it be local, community or in our own parish.  It's our own fault.  Every Council and Assembly has people who are "connected."  It is the job of our leaders to motivate them to get busy.

Let's start by appointing a Public Relations Chairman for each Council.  The time for Council elections is here.  The time to pick a PR Chairman is now.  No experience is required.  Just a passion and enthusiasm for the Knights of Columbus.  Membership Directors are missing the boat if they don't insist on having a PR chairman to publicize their Council and its events.

My job as State PR is to  assist in training and supporting Council PR chairmen throughout the state.  Please provide me with their contact information and I will do the rest:  Bruce Tawson, 303-683-2686; b.tawson@comcast.net.