RICHARD HAKE, was a public radio host and reporter for WNYC for nearly three decades and he was born on this date (d:2020); He liked to say that his Morning Edition news updates “woke up New York”
The son of a former Bronx police detective, Hake graduated from broadcast journalism powerhouse Fordham University in 1991 and got a glimpse of his future as a morning drive newscaster and reporter at the campus radio station, WFUV FM.
In his Twitter profile, Hake noted his unique role in the bustling Big Apple, writing: “I wake people up and tell them stories on the alarm clock, the app, streaming, in the shower, in the car, etc.”
As coronavirus cases surged in the city and officials told office workers to stay home, Hake set up a makeshift studio in his one-bedroom apartment, complete with an art deco “on air” light and various microphone flags bearing the station’s logos over the years.
Hake worked as News Host and Reporter at WNYC. His live and produced radio feature segments range from hard breaking news to cultural and artistic sound portraits. His work was heard both nationally and locally on the NPR programs, Morning Edition, Weekend Edition, All Things Considered and On The Media.
“He got us through blackouts. Elections. Hurricane Sandy, WNYC planning editor Kate Hinds tweeted. His work was recognized over the years by the Associated Press Broadcasters Association, The Society of Professional Journalists, The New York Press Club, The Society of the Silurians and The National Federation of Community Broadcasters.