Re: Another BSA Attack
John Pannell (PANNELLJ@DELPHI.COM)
Wed, 31 Jul 1996 21:05:32 -0500
I regularly ride the train to and from the Chicago Loop with at least one of
the key volunteers in my district and we discussed this today.
The response of one of my companions, who works in a marketing capacity, was
quite interesting.
He suggested the BSA should now go on an all-out offensive. No, not attack
the ACLU or other BSA attackers. Rather he envisioned the following. I
will make an attempt to convey what I was told.
First, an ad campaign periodically run over the next few years in the
various major periodicals and newspapers. This would highlight how the
basic values we hear people clamoring for and wishing for society's return
to, have been at the heart of the BSA for the last 86 years. Don't dwell on
negatives. Don't attack others beliefs. Just say what the BSA stands for
and promotes. A TV campaign would possibly work with this.
Next was a task for our Chief Scout Executive. Three sets of letters should
be sent by him. The first set should go to our political leaders: Democrat
and Republican alike. It should mention the BSA is under attack by
some. This should inform them of the BSA's goals, aims and objectives; what
we try to inculcate in today's youth. It should also mention that we have
been trying to do this for the past 86 years and while society has changed
over that time, the BSA has remained committed to these ideals unwaveringly.
The second set of letters should go to those who comprise the National
Committee. It should remind them of what the BSA stands for, how they agree
and support like goals, and thank them for their efforts in this regard.
The third set of letters should go to the CEO's and Chairmen of the Fortune
1000 companies. Once again they should be informed of the BSA aims, goals
and purposes. This group shoud also be made aware of the importance of
these values to society and business. These business leaders should be
thanked for their support. DO NOT solicit them for funds (in this letter).
At least this is what my friend had to say. The opinions are his, not mine.
He is also in full agreement about building strong relationships with
chartered partners. He agreed with some here that efforts should be made to
publicize the BSA and its members in a positive light, always linking these
accomplishments and achievements to the sponsor. An example would be,
"Scouts and leaders of Troop XXX of Naperville, IL, sponsored by YYYY
performed a service project last weekend to ...... for the people of ....."
(I am not a writer, but I think you get the idea...)
This can be summarized in the following ways. Always be positive. Do not
attack those who disagree with you. Do not apologize for what you believe
in. Be proud. Be on the offensive.
YiS,
John Pannell, Unit Commissioner
Three Fires Council, IL (in the far western suburbs of Chicago)
I used to be a buffalo (SR-92, working ticket)
but will always be an Eagle (1981)
pannellj@delphi.com
Terry Howerton Sakima Group, Inc. SCOUTER Magazine Kansas City | 
