Long Island TV/Radio Stations Win NYSBA "Awards For Excellence In Broadcasting"

ALBANY, NY (06/25/2008)(readMedia)-- Long Island radio and TV stations picked up a handful of honors at last night's 43rd "Awards for Excellence in Broadcasting," an annual contest sponsored by the New York State Broadcasters Association (NYSBA) recognizing outstanding achievement among New York's radio and television stations. The awards were handed out at the picturesque Sagamore Resort Hotel in Bolton Landing.

West Babylon's WBAB was chosen for "Outstanding Radio Commercial" (Teletechie: Movie Trailer) and "Outstanding On-Air Broadcast Personality or Team" (Roger and JP - "The Mind of a Woman"), while WKJY in Farmingdale picked up an award for "Outstanding Public Service Announcement/Campaign" (Radio for a Cure).

On the TV side, Melville's WLNY was singled out for "Outstanding Public Affairs Program Series" (Baby Safe Haven) and "Outstanding Sportscast" (Giants at the Super Bowl), and Public Broadcaster WLIW was tapped for "Outstanding Single Public Affairs Program" (Crosson and Welles, Episode 106).

Judged by member stations of the Missouri Broadcasters Association, this year's competition drew 520 entries from Empire State radio and TV stations. Long Island stations competed in the blue group, which comprised radio and TV stations from the markets of Long Island, Albany/Schenectady/Troy, Syracuse, Rochester and Buffalo.

Last night's formal dinner, which featured an address by Gov. David Paterson, also included Hall of Fame induction ceremonies for veteran Buffalo Bills play-by-play announcer Van Miller, acclaimed radio general manager Bob Bruno, former president of ABC Radio Network Edward F. McLaughlin, veteran Capital Region radio manager John Kelly, and TV syndication legend Roger King.

NYSBA also presented the 2008 New Yorkers of the Year Award to the New York Giants for their stunning underdog victory over the previously unbeaten New England Patriots in this year's Super Bowl.

In addition, best-selling suspense novelist Mary Higgins Clark was recognized with the eighth annual Carol M. Reilly Award, which is given out in memory of NYSBA President Joseph A. Reilly's late wife, who died of cancer in 2000.

For more information, call NYSBA at (518) 456-8888 or go to www.nysbroadcasters.org.

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Founded in 1955, the NYS Broadcasters Association (NYSBA) represents the interests of more than 600 television and radio stations in the NYS Senate and Assembly, the US Congress, and various other legislative bodies. NYSBA also offers a variety of services to help the broadcasters of New York State better serve their communities. For more information, call (518) 456-8888 or go to www.nysbroadcasters.org.