D.C. Radio Network's 'Deathstar Project' Unveiled at MLK, Jr.-Day Meetup

Plans for a listener-supported, free-form broadcast radio outlet featuring progressive content produced in the Washington, D.C. region were put on display in Shaw/Mid-City during Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s birthday before a group of local investors, media & music pros, and community activists.  react radio's William Tucker, Jr. and Kymone Freeman outlined the network's business plan, including its mission, marketing strategy, and capital requirements, then followed with a Q&A session and open call for programmers/radio hosts.

So much positive energy flowed from those in attendance that the event lasted well beyond its scheduled 3 hours.  Two items that generated the biggest reaction were a soundstage/studio/public venue based in Anacostia, and a possible offering of shares in the venture directly to the public.  The soundstage idea merges a 'black box' performance space with an on-air studio as inspired by CBS Television City in Hollywood and, in an ironic twist, Radio One's old WOL 1450 AM studio at 4th and H Streets in Northeast D.C.  Opening react's studios to the public is seen as key to fulfilling a broadcaster's obligation to their community; a value abandoned long ago by many radio station owners and networks.

As the meetup drew to a close, the venture made significant progress toward its campaign's first stage goal of $50,000 before Spring 2011.  Efforts are now focused on setting up the temporary remote studio in anticipation of starting broadcasts on WPWC 1480 AM in the next few weeks.    

Call for Radio Hosts

A free-form broadcast radio network based in Washington, D.C. is accepting proposals for its 2011-12 program schedule. regional electronic arts and community telecom, react, is opening 360+ 'prime-time' (daytime) hours per month on an AM affilate in the nation's 9th rated radio market for  music- and public affairs-themed programs. Proposals for pre-recorded, 'live', or syndicated productions featuring local content from:

• performing artists (including DJs, spoken word artists, and comedians)
• educators & schools
• political activists
• non-profit organizations
• journalists
• webcasters
• recording labels
• event promoters
• small businesses & entrepreneurs

representing progressive politics and related music genres -- including Jazz, Neo-soul, House, Blues, Alternative Hip-Hop & Rock -- will be accepted. 

Early submissions will be given highest priority in scheduling, with time slots awarded on a first-come basis.  Programmers will be required to participate in the network's membership campaigns, but also permitted the option to use their time slots for fundraising on behalf of charitable causes, or for commercial purposes, earning income from securing 3rd party sponsorships and/or promotional agreements.  Financing is available.

To obtain a copy of the network guidelines and an application form, send an e-mail with your full contact information (full name, address, telephone number) to: neon_noodley2k@yahoo.com.  Make sure to enter 'react radio host opportunities' in the subject box.