166 Madison Avenue, 4th Floor Newsroom, New York, NY 10016-5432
Founded in 1966, Black Radio Network is one of the oldest and largest minority oriented radio networks, broadcasting to 168 stations nationwide. The network covers strictly news, although it focuses on events affecting minorities. Roy Thompson, News Director, runs the show in New York, with the help of various bureaus including Washington, Atlanta and Chicago. However, all calls and inquiries always go through Thompson in the New York office.
SECTIONS: On the Bookshelf
A 15-minute program, broadcast on the weekends, featuring a different book each week; this show does not do reviews, rather it highlights releases of recent books, their title, author and price.
EDITORS/LEAD TIME: News Director Roy Thompson, Fax: 212/686-7308, Phone: 212/686-6850, Lead Time: Not specified
METHODS: Faxes are preferred. Keep in mind the network broadcasts 24 hours a day, seven days a week and all pitches go through Thompson. Therefore, faxes are the most convenient way to contact the network.
COMMENTS: When dealing with Roy, be brief and to the point, as you should be with all editors. He also prefers not to be asked twice about a story. "When we say no, don't try to change our minds," Thompson said.
SECTIONS: Minority Report
This show airs on weekdays, highlighting major news items with an emphasis on the minority sector.
EDITORS/LEAD TIME: Same as above. Roy emphasizes that all calls be placed to him. METHODS: Same as above
COMMENTS: Another tip to keep in mind when speaking with Roy is to be specific when pitching a story to Black Radio Network. "It takes time and effort to speak to public relations people and I don't want to waste my time," Thompson said. Don't call him unless there's a purpose and an end result.
Editorial Contacts At Black Radio Network
(All calls to be placed at 212/686-6850)
- Sam Tucker, Washington Bureau
- Peter Knight, Assistant News Desk
- Bill Baldwin, National Assignment Editor