By Lina Garcia
February 3, 2003

The nation's media sought out the nation's mayors at the 71st Winter Meeting in Washington. Mayors conducted numerous interviews to inform the public, Congress, and the Administration that cities are waiting for critically needed federal aid for homeland security, as well as an economic security plan that invests in cities, creates jobs and spurs economic growth.

Over 150 reporters covered the meeting — from every national television and cable network, major national and regional newspapers, radio networks, and specialty publication.

Boston Mayor Conference President Thomas M. Menino attended a print reporters roundtable, sponsored by the Christian Science Monitor. He also appeared on MSNBC's "Buchanan and Press" show, CNBC's "Capital Report" with Orlando Mayor Glenda Hood, and NPR's "Tavis Smiley Show" with Columbus Mayor Michael Coleman.

Los Angeles Mayor James K. Hahn led a press conference on gang crime and domestic terrorism, which was attended by more than 15 reporters.

C'span carried two sessions live and hosted Laredo Mayor Elizabeth Flores for their "Washington Journal" show.

Reporters for the Associated Press interviewed Cleveland Mayor Jane Campbell and Atlanta Mayor Shirley Franklin for national stories.

CNN's "Crossfire" played host to San Francisco Mayor Willie Brown, as several other mayors watched from the live studio audience.

CBS News conducted one-on-one interviews with Boston Mayor Thomas M. Menino and Denver Mayor Wellington Webb.

CNNfn featured a live interview with Long Beach Mayor Beverly O'Neill and Oklahoma City Mayor Kirk Humphreys.

Univision interviewed Miami Mayor Manuel Diaz.

Coverage of mayors continued even after the meeting. Fox News Channel held a Mayors' roundtable on the day of the President's State of the Union speech with Boston Mayor Thomas M. Menino, Charlotte Mayor Patrick McCrory, Orlando Mayor Glenda Hood, and New Haven Mayor John DeStefano.