By Tom Conroy, BC-AIA
Chief, Audion Engineering Branch

Having worked in broadcasting for many years, I've had a chance to write not only copy for spots, but also PSA's for many smaller nearby non-profit organizations. As PA folks, you'll be in the unique position to "personalize" many of the pre-written PSA's available on the web, or to write your own and have them approved. PSA's can be basic or complex, involving more that one narrator. Sound effects can be added to create "the theatre of the mind" as it applies to audio copy. However, I caution you to be careful using background music because of possible music licensing issues. Carefully check it out thru SESAC, BMI or ASCAP. The recording will generally have the licensing information on the CD or record labeling. In writing the copy, use your imagination to get the concept out. It may even involve "actualities", or recorded bits, to add impact. Mention local areas in the PSA's, and use them as well to promote the USCG Auxiliary.

Now that the chore of writing is completed and approved, the real fun begins, actually recording! I'm from the "old school" and still love the quality of the reel to reel deck. Use this as a minimum for mastering. Don't use cassette decks since the quality is not always good. If however, you are considering going to the digital domain, as I've also done recently, you have many possibilities. First you need a computer, an audio recording/editing program, a professional sound card (external USB or internal), mixer and professional microphone.

Some of the more popular recording programs include Cool Edit, SoundForge, and Adobe Audition. I've actually found new unopened and unregistered versions on E-Bay which were affordable. Play with these programs and get to know the one you have. Apply the appropriate sampling rate too. Some programs will give you the option of choosing what kind of file you want to save your finished PSA to. (WAV, MP3 etc.). If you plan on e-mailing several PSA's, use MP3. WAV files require more storage. All of these programs allow very easy audio editing. This is an excellent way to take some of the gaps out to keep the PSA's within the required time frame. However, be careful when editing since it can turn out to be too tight, making the presentation sound unnatural. Editing requires highlighting the gaps, or other areas and hitting delete on the keyboard. It's really that easy!

One final note, if you don't have the equipment to record the PSA's, talk to local radio stations in the area, there's a good chance that they will help you in some way. Get to know the staff, they can be a major asset for helping you get the word out. Finally, should you have any questions, feel free to e-mail me at capttomconroy@verizon.net