Concluding Observations:

After following the DRT for an entire semester, closely observing their activities and interpreting their communication strategies, I would like my last blog entry to be some final remarks:

- Communication needs some improvement: Sure, I understand that half of the appeal of an organization is exclusivity, but really, these ladies have nothing to report from their monthly meetings? What could they possibly talk about in there? It seems that the hush hush feel is just an excuse to report nothing to the public. After these hearing that these legislative bills have passes demanding that DRT needs to be more open with information to the public, I am glad that someone called them out on their secrets. 

- Passion & emotion are huge motivators: Never have I read more patriotic diction and colorful descriptions than the rhetoric displayed on the webpages, the testimonies I read from the legislative hearings, and the passion conveyed in talking with the members. It seems that pride has a lot to do with joining DRT and being a 10th generation Texas is really cool and all, but these ladies sure are patriotic! Looking at the list of the chapters alone is evidence that there are many Texan women out their that are proud to be one. 

- Bureaucracy works for ladies' organizations too: DRT does a good job of setting you up with the right people you need to be in contact with. Everywhere on their websites, whether it be the organization itself or affiliated sites, you can always find a listing of the officers. It strikes me as sort of silly to have 5 Vice Presidents, but when you divvy out responsibilities to each one, it makes much more sense. The spokeswomen does her job to the best of her abilities, as does the President. Everyone from the newly joined member to the life long participant recognizes that a hierarchy exists and through dedication and commitment, anyone can reach their desired position. 

- Community involvement is their specialty: Catering to a large and varied audience is exactly what DRT does so well. Their free admittance to museums, libraries, and historical landmarks means that no one is hampered by an expensive ticket. Cost-free events generate good buzz for the organization and word spreads quickly that DRT is a respectful and generous group. This is a great strategy to boost reputation and gain the favor of the public.