[DeltAlum]

Tom,

Most of what you say is true, however the important points, I think, are these:

"Where there's smoke, there (often) is fire." Greeks wouldn't have this overriding reputation for alcohol abuse if it weren't at least partially true. Many major studies have shown that. We've painted the target on ourselves.

Second, it is possible to get "good" press, but you have to work at it. You need to be sure to tell the media when you're doing something good. It won't always make it into print/airtime, but it often will. Someone in each chapter should be in charge of public relations and keep good contacts with local media.

Remember that media ALWAYS check with the police and fire department, etc. -- that's what their job is. They don't have the staff to check with everyone. Your good deeds won't automatically come to their attention, like your big problems will.

Finally, when there is a problem, the chapter should have a plan to handle it. Nobody but the chapter advisor, a spokesman from Nationals or other designated officer should talk to the media.

A good case in point is a couple years ago when a Delt at Ohio State died after taking GHB and drinking. The Delt Central Office immediately sent a team to Columbus, and the media coverage was more about the dangers of the drug than "Bad Fratboys." That took work. But it was a heck of a lot better than how the story would normally be reported.