Slate Magazine
One Microsoft Way
Redmond, WA 90852
When this online magazine launched in 1996, it was at the forefront of a trend in online publishing soon to be followed by a deluge of other e-zines. During its heyday three years ago, Slate, a Microsoft product, created quite a buzz among netizens. Today, now that the hype has settled, the question remains as to whether Slate is living up to its name. Slate editors certainly aren't the best at working with their PR colleagues, but following simple rules may net you positive relationships. (69% male; 70% between the ages of 25 and 54; 78% college educated; and median HHI, $90,000)
SECTIONS: 24/SEVEN
The New York office oversees the 24/seven section of Slate, which covers cultural and political stories. Within this section are the Breakfast Table, The Book Club, Dispatches and Diary. All departments are online chats about various topics.
EDITORS/LEAD TIME: New York Editor, Judith Shulevitz
Phone: 212/561-8861 e-mail: [email protected]
New York Office Address: 121 Fifth Avenue New York, NY 10010
METHODS: The most effective way to reach any of the Slate editors - and especially the New York office - is by e-mail or regular mail. They are not receptive to calls since they are virtually always on deadline.
COMMENTS: Shulevitz admits she's terse to any PR pro who calls when she's on deadlines, but honestly says she wants to improve her relationship with PR execs.
"I want that information and want to form relationships with PR," she says. "But since the deadlines are staggered, I have to be rude."
SECTIONS: FEATURES
This section reports on a variety of news topics and lighter feature pieces. It's similar to 24/seven since it covers culture and politics, but has a more journalistic look and feel.
EDITORS/LEAD TIME: Deputy Editor, Jack Shafer
Phone: 425/882-8080
Lead Time: The publication is updated several times a day and deadlines are rolling. Therefore, lead time can be two weeks or one hour, depending upon the nature of the story.
METHODS: All submissions should go to Shafer through the mail. Most editorial staffers aren't receptive to any phone calls.
If the material is urgent, send to Shulevitz and she'll forward it to Shafer.
COMMENTS: The section is always looking for information with a unique spin on the news. Editors aren't interested in "pseudo events" or product launches.
Slate doesn't have beat editors covering certain sections, so send all information to main editors.
Editorial Contacts at Slate
Main Number: 425/882-8080
Jacob Weisberg
Chief Cultural Correspondent
Bruce Gottlieb
Staff Writer
William Saletan
Staff Writer
Eliza Truitt
Staff Writer
Jacob Weisberg
Chief Critic
Michael Kinsley
Editor
Recent Stories
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A review of the book, "A Turn of the Century."