Editor's Note: Generally, we've found that radio journalists are more willing -- than most print and TV newshounds -- to speak with us about how PR practitioners should make pitches. The key for radio is timeliness, timeliness, timeliness! And make sure your suggestions are to the point.
| SECTIONS | PRODUCERS |
DAYS TO CONTACT/ DAYS TO AVOID |
METHODS | COMMENTS |
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News WTOP Radio covers all genres of news -- politics, art, family/health/lifestyle issues and business. |
Producer/News Director: Michelle Komas, Phone: 202/895-5060, Fax: 202/895-5149 | It's best to contact Komas between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Monday through Friday, but keep in mind that assignments are made in the morning. Plug a topic the day before. | Producer prefers a one-page fax. Phone calls are OK, but Komas points out she usually doesn't have time to chat. | Pitches should be "sexy" -- something that grabs the producer's attention because it goes beyond the typical. |
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Morning Drive Show Show runs from 5-10 a.m.Morning Drive |
Producer: Mike McMearty, Phone: 202/895-5060, Fax: 202/895-5149 | Although McMearty works a shift which begins late in the afternoon and ends at midnight, it's still wise to fax an item during regular business hours since Komas approves assignments. | Once again, fax a pitch. Place a call if you must -- but only if it's really a scoop. | PR people serve these producers best by anticipating stories and making sure they can provide sources, tips, details or color for a specific piece. |
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Public Affairs Show "Issues" This program, which airs on sister station WASH, covers "hot" stories and "hot" topics. |
Producer: Bob Madigan, Phone: 202/895-5060, Fax: 202/895-5149 | Contact Madigan Monday through Friday between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. | Like most radio producers, this one prefers a fax over a call since deadlines are daily. | The biggest gripe these radio producers have is that people aren't familiar with the media outlets they make pitches to (i.e., they get PR professionals who ask them if they want color slides). Also, they receive hundreds of faxes a day so it's really not smart to send one that's really long. |