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(4/15/02) Public Radio International Eclipses 700-Affiliate Mark.
Minneapolis-based Public Radio International (PRI) today announced that it now serves 708 affiliate stations in the U.S. and Guam, eclipsing the landmark network number as PRI prepares to celebrate its 20th anniversary in 2003.
PRI President and Chief Executive Officer Stephen Salyer says, "I’m very proud to recognize our 708 affiliate stations, who together provide a key public service to audiences nationwide. Our large affiliation base is a reflection of the outstanding programming we offer. By providing our affiliates with quality programs — created by remarkably talented producers — we serve them and their listeners well."
Ira Glass, host and producer of This American Life, says, "It's no surprise that PRI now has more than 700 affiliates, because PRI is simply the best distributor of public radio programs in the country. It's more in touch with stations' individual needs than anyone, and better set up in every way to help a producer get his or her show out to the public.
"When PRI became This American Life's distributor, in just a few months, it doubled the number of stations carrying our show to over 200. I think no other organization could have done it as quickly and effectively. And yet, weirdly, they're still the best-kept secret in public radio as far as listeners are concerned. No matter. Public radio is full of people doing fine work, in semi-obscurity. PRI is just another example."
Jeff Luchsinger, vice president and station manager for KERA Dallas, adds, "PRI is extremely forward-thinking, station-focused, and entrepreneurial. They're constantly examining how they can serve stations better, meet station needs, and help stations achieve their aspirations."
PRI was founded originally as American Public Radio in 1983 and quickly grew from its five founding stations to reach 165 stations at the end of its first year. By 1994, APR distributed programs to 481 affiliate stations. It was at this time that the network changed its name to Public Radio International. In 1996, with an affiliation base of 549 stations, PRI launched The World, public radio's first global news program, and Classical 24, a 24-hour classical music service. Today, PRI distributes cultural and news programming to 708 affiliate stations.
PRI programs are broadcast and streamed online by its 708 affiliate stations, and are available internationally through the World Radio Network, and nationwide via Sirius Satellite Radio. PRI affiliate stations reach more than 22 million listeners weekly.
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