This is a very interesting debate started here... I had no idea, but let me address a few points:
RMD, you bring up a good point about being careful with reporters, especially on controversial issues. However the media has a job to do and they are obligated in telling an accurate story. Granted some will "twist" things, as it sounds like what happened in your case. You just have to be ready for it.
Janoots2, your information is dead on. Know the story, find out who else is being talked too, do your research and if it's not sounding like it's going to be favorable, don't do it. As much as I appreciate the offer on the PR training, I'm going to have to give you some background first. I have done hundreds of news interviews (local, national and international), press conferences and "investigative news shows" as part of my regular job (I cover 12 states). When I'm not in front of the camera, I'm working on talking points or prepping others for interviews. I also teach "dealing with the media" when I am not the one doing the interview. Additionally, the reporters I deal with know me very well and know that I will "cut them off" to exclusive stories if they screw me over. It's nice having that "card" to play. I think we are good on this one...
Trec-r, some reporters are "out to get you, you just have to know how to deal with them.... In 2009, I did a fair amount of media on "drones". Not the type we all fly here, but the full size versions. I we able to convince the media I was dealing with to call them UAVs or UASs. That was an incredible feet, but with education and access, the media can be putty in your hands. I also don't see the negativity to the word "drone" when used appropriately. Education and exposure to what we do is the key to winning over the public. We are a group of people who have invested a fair about of time, money and technology, incorporating it all into aerial vehicles that we control remotely for our own pleasure and to capture views which would otherwise be unobtainable. Hey, what do you know, I just created a good sound bite....lol
I really want to keep this thread going and see what others perspectives are on this subject....