"Enjoy the latest edition of OPEN dedicated to the memory of Hal Jackson, a true pioneer and innovator in the broadcasting industry.

Born in November of 1914, Mr. Jackson began his rich career as the first African-American radio sports announcer for local Negro league baseball. He also became the first African American host in Washington.

In 1971, he and Percy Sutton acquired WLIB, which became the first African American radio station in New York. He broke color barriers virtually everywhere he went, and was recognized in 1990 with another first. He became the first minority inducted into the National Association of Broadcaster's Hall of Fame.

Through it all, he inspired generations of young African American women with the "Hal Jackson Talented Teens" competition.

OPEN Host Bob Lee, longtime friend and host at WBLS, honored the memory of his mentor during a very special episode of OPEN, which also featured entertainment executive Qadree El-Amin, Adam Clayton Powell IV, and Ken "Spider" Webb." Throughout the show, co-workers, family and friends also shared their feelings on Hal as a man, broadcaster, innovator and friend."

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