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MAY/JUNE 2021

See whichINSIDE! stations from across the state won WBA Awards!

CHAIR’S COLUMN Positivity leads to successful operations As managers and owners of and TV stations in of August at Blue Harbor in Sheboygan. Please attend and bring many , what is the most important part of our of your staff with you. They will enjoy the seminars and sharing ideas job? In some cases, it depends on who you ask. with fellow broadcasters. Retiring NAB head Sen. Gordon Smith will The FCC expects you to operate in the community be attending. It will be great to participate in a LIVE event! interest and follow their technical specifications. The shareholders, or your partners, or the bank expect you to make money so you can pay them.

Chris Bernier Yes, those are important, but any successful broad- WBA Chair cast operation is an enjoyable place to work. The employees find it fun to come to work. I believe if we do a good job motivating our staff the business will succeed. One of the first things we must do is lead by example. When we get to the office, we need to be a positive force. We need to be excited to get to the office. When we talk to staff, we need to project enthusi- August 25-26, 2021 asm! The Summer Convention is shaping up to be a terrific event the end Blue Harbor Resort ~ Sheboygan, WI More on pages 4-5

CONTENTS PRESIDENT’S COLUMN

Support for LRFA...... 2 WBA award winners provide inspiration Your WBA is in the fortunate position find the full rundown on pages 4-5. Registration Tornado drill successful...... 2 of getting to not only see and hear is open on your WBA website. We’re excited to but also share the great work that finally recognize the Local Broadcast Legends and Zaragoza to be honored...... 3 you, our valued radio and TV broad- Hall of Fame inductees we announced in 2020. Michelle casters, are doing each and every day And we get to give a giant thank you to our friend, Summer Conference preview ��� 4-5 Vetterkind, across Wisconsin. The WBA Awards Senator Gordon Smith, NAB President and CEO, Review your digital strategy ��������6 CAE Gala gives everyone a chance to see who recently announced his retirement at the end WBA President the amazing work and dedication you of this year. He’ll be there to deliver our keynote. Stations making a difference �������7 and CEO bring to your communities, particu- We will also honor the WBA Young Professional of larly in 2020. You can see a long list of the Year, Terry Stevenson and WBA Distingiushed Member News...... 7-8 those award-winning examples on pages 10-21. Service Award winner Dick Zaragoza. Thank you to our Awards Committee and everyone Thank you to our Conference Committee for the WBA Award winners...... 10-21 who contributed to putting on this year’s online award effort you put into this important first in-person galas. And while they were successful events, we great- event since the start of the pandemic. We hope to Learning during pandemic ��������22 ly look forward to celebrating the awards in-person, see you there! radio and TV together, as we’re accustomed to, at the HOF inductee remembered ��������23 Diversity Committee hard at work Madison Marriott West in 2022. Our WBA Diversity Committee, which you’ve read Summer Conference agenda released Jowett Fellowship deadline �������23 about in recent issues of the newsletter, is now We are most proud to bring you the agenda for our meeting monthly and looking to turn words into Legends to be honored...... 23 WBA Summer Conference coming up Aug. 25-26 at the actions. Your first chance to see it in action will be beautiful Blue Harbor Resort in Sheboygan. You can at our Summer Conference where the committee Calendar of Events...... 24 will be hosting a roundtable session with Binnu Continued on page 2> PRESIDENT’S COLUMN Continued from page 1 Palta Hill from the Wisconsin School of Business constituents during the pandemic. ahead of her EEO session. Binnu was a WBA Announcements coming soon about favorite when she spoke to us a few years ago at Broadcasters Clinic a WBA Conference and we’re excited to have her act as moderator. Our Broadcasters Clinic Committee is nearly Wisconsin Broadcasters Association done setting the agenda for the Broadcasters Officers & Board of Directors Committee members will be leading discussions Clinic to be held Sept. 8-10 at the Madison at the tables about diversity in broadcasting with OFFICERS 2020-2021 Marriott West. This is another return to normal Chair of the Board the aim of giving attendees actionable ideas for us, albeit earlier in the year than the Clinic Chris Bernier Radio Plus, Marinette/ to make sure their stations reflect more voices would typically happen. Fond du Lac in their communities. We hope you can join We’re hearing there are many out there interest- Vice Chair - TV, Chair Elect the Diversity Committee in Sheboygan for this Don Vesely WMTV-TV, Madison ed in attending but waiting to get the all-clear important session. Vice Chair - Radio because of the pandemic. We’re hopeful for Broadcasters meeting with lawmakers Lupita Montoto La Movida WLMV Radio, continued success in the vaccine rollout so Madison The pandemic hasn’t kept broadcasters from broadcast engineers, vendors, and experts can Treasurer connecting with lawmakers through your WBA. again share the same space at the Clinic. Jan Wade WISN-TV, While our annual WBA DC trip didn’t happen Watch your inboxes for the Broadcasters Clinic Immediate Past Chair in person this year, we’re organizing a virtual agenda and updates on all the other events we Steve Lavin WBAY-TV, Green Bay visit to Capitol Hill with calls and video con- have in . Your WBA knows you’re ready ferences with Congressional offices over three BOARD OF DIRECTORS to get back to networking with your fellow days in May. We expect to talk to our Wisconsin Judson Beck WLAX-TV/WEUX-TV, broadcasters. We absolutely can’t wait to see Congressional delegation about preserving local La Crosse/Eau Claire you again too. journalism and the tremendous work that you, Brian Burns , Madison Wisconsin’s Broadcasters, put in to help their Keep up the great work and stay safe! Paul Cameron The Network, Appleton Reps. Kind, Grothman, Tiffany cosponsor LRFA Herb Cody QueenB Radio, Platteville Sean Dwyer WXOW-TV, La Crosse Wisconsin Congressional Representatives Stevens Point (D-WI-3), Glenn Grothman (R-WI-6) and Tom Tiffany Anna Engelhart WKOW-TV, Madison (R-WI-7) are supporting the recently reintroduced Aleese Fielder NRG Media-Wausau/ Local Radio Freedom Act (LFRA). The resolutions Stevens Point in the House of Representatives and the Senate Andy Gille , oppose “any new performance fee, tax, royalty, or Green Bay other charge” on local broadcast radio stations. Dean Kallenbach , The version of the LFRA introduced in the last Senior Regional Manager, Eau Claire Kind Grothman Tiffany session of Congress was supported by Senator Ron Mike Smith WFRV-TV, Green Bay Johnson and House representatives Bryan Steil (R- Colleen Valkoun iHeartMedia, Milwaukee WI-1), Ron Kind (D-WI-3), Glenn Grothman (R-WI-6), Tom Tiffany (R-WI-7) and Mike Gallagher Jeff Welton Nautel, Hackett’s Cove, (R-WI-8). Last session more than half the members of the U.S. House cosponsored the bill. Nova Scotia The Local Radio Freedom Act (LRFA) signals Members of Congress’s opposition to any poten- Ex Officio - NAB Board Tom Koser Koser Radio Group, Lake tial legislation that would impose new performance royalties on broadcast radio stations for music airplay.

Stations step up for statewide tornado drill WBA Team Radio and TV broadcasters across Wisconsin used Severe Weather Awareness Week and a state- wide tornado drill to prepare their communities for the upcoming severe weather season. President & CEO Michelle Vetterkind, CAE Severe Weather Awareness Week in Wisconsin was recognized April 12-16 and a statewide [email protected] tornado drill was conducted on April 15. The WBA coordinated the event alongside Wisconsin NCSA/PEP Coordinator Emergency Management and the National Weather Service. Liz Boyd [email protected] Radio and TV stations used the occasion to review severe weather preparedness tips and edu- Director of Operations and Public cated the public about watches and warnings issues by the National Weather Service and what Affairs they should do when one is issued. Stations promoted the awareness in their on-air programs Kyle Geissler and on their websites and social media. [email protected] The live code test that was typically a part of Severe Weather Awareness Week was called off this year primarily because technological hurdles have made the EAS live code portion of the test no longer viable. Rather than risk an error that reduces public confidence in alerting WBA Board minutes are always available for members. Please email Kyle Geissler at systems, the decision was made to remove that aspect of the drill. The alerting systems used in [email protected] to request past tests that were not tested this year are regularly tested in other ways. a copy. Thank you to all the stations that participated in this important public safety education cam- paign. 2 Wisconsin Broadcaster | wi-broadcasters.org Zaragoza to receive WBA Distinguished Service Award at Summer Conference The WBA’s now retired Wisconsin Broadcasters Association Founda- with the National Association of Broadcasters. lawyer, Richard tion Board. As NASBA’s counsel, Dick played an indispens- able role in NASBA’s pursuit of each of those (Dick) Zaragoza, will receive Dick’s of service to the WBA and its missions. the Wisconsin Broadcasters members, as well as to the National Alliance Association’s of State Broadcasters Associa- This is the second WBA Distinguished Service Distinguished tions (“NASBA”), of which the Award to be handed out. The first was award- Service Award Join us at the WBA Summer WBA is a member, have served ed to former Wisconsin Governor Tommy at the WBA to protect and enhance the Thompson in January 2019. Zaragoza Summer Con- Conference to best interests of the broadcast ference. Honor Zaragoza Dick will be recognized with the award at the industry in Wisconsin as well as WBA Summer Conference at the Blue Harbor The Award was established to nationwide. Resort in Sheboygan. recognize those who “reflect Dick was instrumental in founding NASBA the values embodied in the Wisconsin in the 1980’s, whose members comprise the broadcast industry of promoting economic state broadcasters associations in each of vitality, engagement in civic affairs, advocacy the 50 States, the District of Columbia, and for the First Amendment and dissemination the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico. NASBA’s of community information and community missions are to elevate the professionalism of service, and support of diversity and a better each State Association as well as to enhance Wisconsin.” each’s financial condition, member services, Dick was nominated by the Wisconsin and the effectiveness of their advocacy efforts Broadcasters Association Board and by the which are carried out in close coordination 2 Wisconsin stations among finalists for Service to America Awards

Two Wisconsin TV stations are among 28 finalists in the NAB ceremony featuring celebrity guests, past honorees and policy- Leadership Foundation 2021 Celebration of Service to America makers. The awards will premiere on July 10 and run through Awards Aug. 14. WISN-TV in Milwaukee is a finalist in large market for WISN-TV Feeds the Hungry. WMTV-TV in Madison is a finalist in medium market television for WMTV-TV Makes Commitment to Feed the Hungry. The 2021 Celebration of Service to America Awards finalists represent 20 states and 28 cities. During 2020, these 28 stations

Wisconsin Rapids stations change hands Two radio stations in Wisconsin Rapids changed ownership last week. devoted a collective 3,528 hours of airtime to public service and Seehafer Broadcasting sold stations WFHR-AM and WLJY-FM to Heart provided more $43 million in funds and donations. of Wisconsin Media. The sale was approved by the FCC in February “America’s local broadcasters’ fundamental commitment to pub- and made final on April 16. lic service continues to shine brighter than ever, and this year’s WFHR and WLJY were purchased by Seehafer Broadcasting founder finalists embody the close bond between stations and their com- and former president, Don Seehafer, in 2006, and Mark Seehafer took munities.” said NAB Leadership Foundation President Michelle ownership of the stations in 2016. Duke. “We look forward to celebrating these outstanding stations WFHR has been on-air in Central Wisconsin since 1940, recently cele- and honoring their critical work informing, supporting and brating its 80th anniversary. strengthening the public in a year of unparalleled difficulties.” “Seehafer Broadcasting has been proud to be part of WFHR’s legacy in Winners will be announced during the Celebration of Service recent years, and now its time for a new chapter,” Seehafer said. “Heart to America Awards program. The 2021 Celebration of Service to of Wisconsin Media is ready and excited to continue to grow WFHR America Awards will once again be broadcast on television and and keep the stations connected to the Wisconsin Rapids community.” radio stations across the country as a special one-hour awards Seehafer Broadcasting owns stations in Manitowoc and Marshfield.

Wisconsin Broadcaster | May/June 2021 3 WEDNESDAY AUGUST 25 Registration 8 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.

Conference Sessions 9 a.m. – 10 a.m. New Revenue Opportunities In A Rapidly Changing Environment What is the future of media revenue growth in a post-pandemic world? Paul Jacobs VP/General As traditional advertising revenue Manager, Jacobs growth has slowed down, how can Media companies unlock the true value of their audiences This presentation will provide in- sight into ideas in how listeners and viewers are changing their habits and provide recommen- dations and examples of how broadcasters can transform their business, through re-imagining the business model, re-defining staff responsi- bilities, and setting a new, expansive definition August 25-26, 2021 of success. 10 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Blue Harbor Resort ~ Sheboygan, WI Surviving to Thriving in Sales The Surviving to Thriving in Sales ses- sion is a high energy, exciting way to make your commission checks bigger. Learn simple steps often skipped or Derron Steenbergen For More Information forgotten that will help you make more Founder, Swag- ger Institute magic in your sales career. Derron and Registration, please go to Steenbergen, President of the Swagger wi-broadcasters.org/summerconference/ Institute, will motivate you to use creative ap- proaches to prospecting, new business develop- Hotel Reservation Deadline is Aug. 2 ment and building better relationships. Derron is one of the very best sales trainers, motivators and relatable sales guys you will ever meet. Thousands Wednesday, August 25, 2021 ~ 8 a.m. Golf Tournament Option have left this session with specific tips to make The Bull at Pinehurst Farms, Sheboygan Falls their business more successful, and more impor- Pre registration required tantly, how to have more fun doing it. Oh, and you will learn the six most powerful words in sales and they are sure to change your career. Plus, Derron Thank You To All Of Our Sponsors will give one question that if you start asking every account you have you are guaranteed to get in- formation you have never gotten. Recommended for all radio/television sellers and managers.

Noon – 1 p.m. ~ Lunch

Media Technology Institute 1 p.m. - 5 p.m. Media Technology Institute Lite: The Post Pandemic Future Moderated by Bill Hubbard It’s been a long year and there’s much to share and learn. Take some time for yourself and meet Bill Hubbard Media Technology Institute Sponsor Title ???? with your engineering colleagues in a relaxed, collegial, face-to-face setting to share stories of pandem- ic survival and what the future might look like. This will be a mix of instruction and interaction. Come prepared to learn and commiserate. and Our Partner! Take a deep breath, celebrate our survival of this past year’s greatest challenges, and help plan the future together.

4 Wisconsin Broadcaster | wi-broadcasters.org 1 p.m. - 2:15 p.m. Diversity and Inclusion THURSDAY - AUGUST 26 Roundtable Discussion Registration ~ 7:30 a.m. - 6 p.m. Join members of the newly-formed WBA Diversity Committee for Conference Sessions important roundtable discussions Binnu Palta 8:30 a.m. - 10 a.m. about diversity, equity, and inclusion Hill Assistant Dean Business Breakfast in broadcasting. UW School of Busi- for Diversity and Inclusion, , ness Chief Diversity Officer Binnu Wisconsin School Palta Hill will lead the discussion of Business 10 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. about behaviors, best, practices, and Economic Update - BMO Private Bank (invited) Soupha- Jason Joanis phone BMO Private sharing experiences that will help you and the Maddox Bank BMO Private WBA Diversity Committee plan for an inclusive Bank future. 10:45 a.m. - 11:45 a.m. 2:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. Modern Day Lead Generation for Broadcasters EEO Session: Developing Signature Traits of an Inclusive Leader • Learn how to generate leads online. • How to nurture an email address and turn it into Learn the six signature traits of leaders, includ- an appointment. ing mindset and behaviors that we can practice • Developing content to bring customers to you. over time. • Learn about the customer value journey.” Andy Bontz Joe Daguanno Theresa Timm Boom Tap Boom Tap 3:30 p.m. - 5 p.m. Boom Tap • How to fill your sales reps’ pipelines with online leads? Legislative Senator Update Gordon Keynote Lunch ~ Noon - 2:30 p.m. Smith President and CEO, NAB NAB President and CEO Senator Gordon Smith David Brandon Michelle and Local Broadcast Legends Presentation Oxenford Scholz Vetterkind, Wilkinson Barker The Capitol CAE Knauer Group WBA President & CEO 2:45 p.m. – 4:15 p.m. and the WBA Legislative Committee Discover Your Swagger Prepared to be renewed! Do you let life steal your joy? Have you forgotten how amazing you really are? Have you forgotten how great it is to be in this business? Have you ever noticed that everything we do as broadcasters has to be about someone else? It’s about our listeners, our viewers, our clients and our community… Derron Steenbergen BUT, it has to start with YOU! It is time you Discovered Your Swagger! This opening Founder, Swag- Lupita Tom Koser Don Vesely Anna session will focus on you and how you can capture, or recapture, the energy, attitude ger Institute Montoto Co-Chair District 1 Engelhart Chair District 2 and passion you need to a lifestyle that makes you feel fulfilled! Your Swagger starts NOW!

Hall of Fame Hall of Fame Reception ~ 5 p.m. - 6 p.m. Herb Cody Jan Wade Joe Poss Terry District 3 District 4 District 5 Stevenson District 6 Hall of Fame Dinner ~ 6 p.m. - 7 p.m. Hall of Fame Presentations ~ 7 p.m. - 8 p.m.

Masters of Ceremonies Al Lancaster Jeff Wright District 7 District 8 Michelle Vetterkind, CAE ~ WBA President and CEO Reception ~ 5:30 p.m. - 7 p.m. Tom Koser ~ Koser Radio Group Michelle Tom Koser Dinner & Bonfire Vetterkind, Recognition of WBA Young Professional of the Year, Terry Stevenson 7:30 - 10 p.m.

Blue Harbor Resort, Sheboygan

Reservation deadline is Aug. 2 Visit wi-broadcasters.org/summerconference to find booking information. See you on the beach!

Wisconsin Broadcaster | May/June 2021 5 FROM THE JACOBS MEDIA TEAM AS PART OF THE JACOBS MEDIA/WBA DIGITAL PARTNERSHIP Review your station’s digital strategy as we enter year 2 of the pandemic

As we enter the second year of the COVID-19 pandemic, television personalities have sometimes found themselves forced to use we find ourselves with reasons for both optimism and tools at home that are not as polished as the studio-grade equipment concern — along with continued uncertainty. For many that they are used to. stations, the pandemic has necessitated experimenta- The reality is broadcasters today are expected to constantly create video tion as on-air personalities learned to broadcast from content outside of their regular on-air time slots. Whether that means home and sales and programming departments found whipping out your phone to create an Instagram Reel while strolling new ways to do business while supporting their local through the park or hosting a happy hour on Zoom, your station should communities. have a strategy for video content. It should also ensure that the staff has Seth Resler But the pandemic has also brought a renewed focus the equipment it needs, including proper lighting and external micro- on the basics of digital strategy. Stations that lacked solid underpinnings phones. Don’t presume that the built-in cameras and mics on your staff’s have had a challenging time adapting, while those that have mastered laptops are up to the job. the fundamentals have proved more adept. 3. Mobile Strategy As we enter the second year of the pandemic, take another look at the Stations need to meet their audiences where they are, which requires most basic components of your station’s digital strategy to see if they are a mobile strategy. This includes not only mobile apps for smartphones, up to par, or if you need to solidify the foundation before branching into but also ways to reach people through smart speakers, OTT devices, and newer arenas such as TikTok, Clubhouse, or podcasting. other means beyond traditional airwaves. 1. Email Marketing But it’s not enough to offer apps and skills on these devices; you also Email is not sexy, but it’s a workhorse. When the pandemic struck and the need to promote those apps and skills. Do this with your airwaves, as well media consumption habits of audiences changed, stations with strong as channels like email marketing, social media, and your station’s website. email databases had a reliable line of communication available to them At some point, the pandemic will pass. When it does, we will enter a new beyond just their airwaves. If radio listeners were no longer driving to normal rather than return to the old one. Stations that have shored up work or television viewers were embracing on-demand video, stations their digital fundamentals will be in the best position when we get there, could use email to tell their fans how to find them with Alexa, mobile so take some time to review the basics of your digital strategy now. apps, or OTT devices. We are here to help Wisconsin broadcasters with their digital strategy. Simply Stations without strong email databases were left to communicate these contact the WBA Digital Hotline, which is a free service of the Wisconsin messages through other channels like social media, which left them Broadcasters Association by calling us at 248-353-9030 or by emailing me at vulnerable to the whims of each platform’s algorithms. [email protected] Review your email strategy. Make sure that you are not only growing your email list by getting new people to sign up, but also regularly send- ing emails to your subscribers. Regularly send them compelling content, not just ads when you want them to make a purchase. The more you can segment your database and tailor your email campaigns to make them more relevant to the recipients, the better. Monitor the health of your email list by regularly reviewing key stats, including the open, click-through, unsubscribe, and new subscriber rates. Run A/B tests with your campaigns to see if you can improve these metrics. Too often, stations take a set-it-and-forget-it approach to email marketing. If you haven’t done so in a while, invest some time here. 2. Video Strategy Thanks to the pandemic, we are now living in the age of Zoom. Radio broadcasters have suddenly found themselves in front of cameras, while

6 Wisconsin Broadcaster | wi-broadcasters.org Making a Difference COVID can’t stop nation’s longest-running local telethon With tremendous help from donors, corporations, and volunteers, Manager of WBAY. “Fewer people a total of $1,421,757 was raised during the 67th annual CP Telethon were allowed into WBAY’s audito- March 6-7 at WBAY-TV in Green Bay. rium during the actual telethon. The two-day event raised money for CP, which helps people in A lot of the entertainment and Northeast Wisconsin with a variety of needs, such as therapy, aquatic client interviews were recorded in exercise, childcare, and adult day services. advance and played back during the telethon. And we still had some “CP Telethon is more than just fundraising. live interviews, but many of those It’s really about advocating for what CP is were done virtually rather than and what it does for our clients,” said Mad- in-person.” die Szymanski, a Philanthropy Advisor for CP. “And bringing the community together There were still plenty of volunteers to show our clients that we’re still here who helped take pledges. CP officials say safety was the top prior- for them and we’re ity this year, making sure everyone wore masks and stayed socially supporting them and distanced. To keep that social distancing in place, 26 their families all year long, even in the middle of people per panel took pledges, equaling about 365 a pandemic.” volunteers, throughout the entire telethon. Just days after last year’s telethon, the shutdown The total raised during the two-day event was about happened. After a few weeks, the organization $30,000 short of last year’s record-breaking total, found a way to bring therapy and services to its but still impressive, especially during a pandemic. clients virtually and later with home visits. CP The money raised during the telethon supports CP’s eventually reopened in May with new protocols operations and programs throughout the year. in place to keep staff and clients safe. “We had to make a lot of changes this year, but one “Canceling the telethon was not an option. We thing that didn’t change - the generosity of the just had to figure out the safest way to do it,” said Steve Lavin, General community,” Lavin said. The Family’s hygiene drive tops $500K The Family Radio Network’s 2021 “Help for the Homeless” hygiene drive received a record-break- ing $502,000 worth of donated hygiene and cleaning supplies for 90 crisis agencies in 19 of their listening communities. In spite the number of collection sites decreas- ing by 20 percent because of the pandemic, donations surpassed last year’s total by $68,000, making this year’s amount the highest ever. Since 1992, “Help for the Homeless” donations have provided more than $4.2 million worth of hygiene supplies to local Wisconsin crisis programs and those they serve. Donations remain in the communi- ties where they are collected. The goal of “Help for the Homeless” is to supply a year’s worth of products to each agency. SOLDIERS CONDUCTING COVID-19 “This gratitude from these people and their chil- RESPONSE TRAINING dren is so extremely heartwarming and humbling,” said Amy Loof, Director of Homeless Services, Solutions Center, Fond du Lac. The Family works together with area homeless coalitions, inviting people to donate hygiene and cleaning supplies to their local crisis agencies so that they can direct their limited financial resources to providing qualified staff, education, programs, shelter, and food. Businesses, churches, and schools participate by placing collection boxes in their high traffic areas and inviting their own staff, members, and students to donate. Financial donations are also welcome. Save the date! Next year’s hygiene drive will be held Feb.13 -March 6. Visit nationalguard.com

7 Wisconsin Broadcaster | wi-broadcasters.org Stevenson named Seehafer Broadcasting Vice President Terry Stevenson has been named Vice President of chair of the WBA’s Young Professional Committee. His work within Seehafer Broadcasting as of May 1. that organization was recognized in 2020 with Stevenson being Stevenson started his career with the company at age named the WBA’s first-ever Young Professional of the Year. Stevenson 16, working as a part time board-op, and ventured is also active in the Manitowoc/Sheboygan area business community further into broadcasting that same year when his and was named the Young Professional of the Year by The Chamber of grandfather and Seehafer Broadcasting founder Don Manitowoc County in 2018. Seehafer gave him the opportunity host his own “I have watched Terry grow into this position over the last 20 years, 30-minute Christian , “Stand Up.” Upon and he has earned it through hard work and determination, along Stevenson graduating high school in June 2003, Stevenson im- with an obvious talent for this line of work,” Mark Seehafer said. “His mediately began full-time work as a member of the dedication to this company, to our clients, and especially to the local sales team and went on to be named Sales Manager in 2014. community makes him the best possible fit for Vice President. This is a Throughout his career, Stevenson has actively pursued further educa- natural next step in the growth and future of Seehafer Broadcasting, tion, notably completing the Radio Advertising Bureau’s Certified Ra- and I know that my father, Don Seehafer, would be proud.” dio Sales Manager course in 2013, and has been an engaged member Seehafer Broadcasting is headquartered in Manitowoc and currently of the Wisconsin Broadcasters Association. Stevenson serves on the owns six radio stations in Manitowoc and two in Marshfield, as well as WBA’s Legislative Committee and is a founding member and current the Seehafer News website and app. Names in the News A former anchor in Milwaukee is joining CBS started her evening anchor/reporter duties in 58 (WDJT-TV) as the station’s Director of Stra- Madison on April 14. tegic Initiatives. Nicole Koglin was a morning Three anchors at WSAW-TV in Wausau started show anchor at WITI-TV before leaving in July. new roles on April 19. At CBS 58 she will oversee all aspects of sta- tion projects and partnerships. She will also Holly Chilsen, who has anchored the 4:00 be appearing regularly in CBS 58 newscasts. p.m. newscast on FOX WZAW since 2017 Koglin will join CBS 58 in the summer. moved to Sunrise 7. She also joined news- Koglin Chilsen casts Monday through Friday from 4:30 Radio host Hayley Tenpas is moving to the - 7:00 a.m. alongside Emerson Lehmann, middays timeslot on WHBY in Appleton. “Fo- Kailin Schumacher, and meteorologists Chad cus Fox Valley” will air 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., filling Franzen and Jeremy Tabin. the hours previously held by Kathy Keene’s “The Good Neighbor Show.” Keene will retire Heather Foster, who joined NewsChannel 7 on May 28. Tenpas has hosted Focus Fox in 2015 and has anchored the 5:00, 6:00, and Valley on WHBY since June 2018. She comes 10:00 p.m. newscasts, moved to the Noon and from an on-air career in television news. This 4:00 p.m. newscasts. Tenpas programming change starts June 1. Foster Kassandra Sepeda, whose been on Sunrise A fixture on Milwaukee area television and 7 since 2017, moved to evenings and co-an- radio for 17 years, Cassandra McShepard, chors alongside Jeff Thelen in the 5:00, 6:00, is joining TMJ4 (WTMJ-TV) News team. and 10:00 p.m. newscasts. McShepard joins the station as a multimedia WSAW/WZAW News Director Bridget Fargen journalist, focusing on telling the stories of said the station is fortunate to have the depth Milwaukee’s hidden gems and points of pride in its anchor positions to make these chang- in Milwaukee. Prior to joining TMJ4, McShep- es. McShepard ard co-hosted “Real Milwaukee” (WITI-TV) Sepeda Diana Gutiérrez has been named co-anchor and had her own talk show on WMCS radio. of ‘WISN 12 News This Morning’ on weekday In addition to her broadcasting experience, mornings. Gutiérrez will continue to serve McShepard’s career includes fashion design, as the anchor of ‘WISN 12 News at 11:00 a.m.’ acting, and singing. with Meteorologist Lindsey Slater. Since RAZOR 94.7|104.7 (WZOR) Music Director joining WISN 12 in January 2021, Gutiérrez and Afternoon personality Cutter is joining worked the Breaking News/Live Desk during the 105.7 WAPL Morning show as co-host. ‘WISN 12 News This Morning’ and as co-an- Cutter will work alongside current long-time chor on ‘WISN 12 News at 11:00 a.m.’ This shift Cutter Gutiérrez host, Rick McNeal. He will join the show this will follow the departure of Eden Checkol at summer. the end of May, who is taking on a new posi- An anchor at a TV station in Des Moines, tion at a in Miami. joined the anchor desk at NBC15 (WMTV- Mid-West Family Madison has promoted of TV) in Madison. Maria Lisignoli previously Kristi Kelly to Music Director for Q106FM worked at the NBC affiliate WHO 13 for more (WWQM). Kelly has spent her radio career at than three years as an anchor and multimedia Mid-West Family Madison, starting more than journalist. She graduated from Iowa State 15 years ago working in events and promo- Lisignoli University with her bachelor’s degree in Jour- Kelly tions. In addition to the Music Director role, nalism and Mass Communication. Lisignoli Kelly will be on the air from 3-7 p.m. Wisconsin Broadcaster | May/June 2021 8 Member News Keene to retire as WHBY’s Good Neighbor Hencley retiring from iHeartMedia after 27 years After 40 years behind the microphone, WHBY’s Good Media veteran Rick Hencley is retiring after 27 years Neighbor Kathy Keene is announcing her retirement. at iHeartMedia. Keene joined Woodward Communications in January Hencley runs the iHeartMedia cluster of stations in 1981. In September of that same year she became Eau Claire. Throughout his career, Hencley has held the host of the Good Neighbor Show on WHBY. several positions within the media industry, includ- During her time in broadcast Keene was awarded ing Laird Broadcasting, Great Duluth Broadcasting, the Social and Digital Media “Best Personality” award Phillips Broadcasting, Cumulus, Clear Channel and iHeartMedia. Hencley will serve as an Advisor for the Keene at the 2016 WBA Awards. In 2018 she was named a Hencley Local Broadcast Legend by the WBA. Great Lakes region beginning April 1 to June 30. “Time has come for me to leave my career in radio. It’s been 40 years Jeanna Berge has been named Market President for and it’s been a great 40 years, let me tell you. I have met so many the Eau Claire and Rochester markets after Hencley’s retirement on wonderful people along the way,” Keene said Friday during her show. April 1. She will also retain her role as Senior Vice President of Sales for “I have spoken with thousands of people; authors, teachers, histo- the Eau Claire market. rians, community leaders, artists and entertainers, experts in every As Market President, Berge will work closely with the programming, imaginable field. And you, the Good Neighbor listeners have always business, and sales teams for all station brands in Eau Claire and Roch- been a large part of the essence of the show. And I will miss you.” ester and will oversee the stations’ on-air and digital programming as Kathy’s final broadcast will be Friday, May 28. well as create new revenue opportunities. Radio legend leaving Milwaukee Beno joins Lake Land College Wall of Fame One of the most recognizable voices in Milwaukee Ken Beno, Chair of the WBA Education Committee, radio is leaving the market. has been chosen as a 2021 recipient of the Lake Land Karen Dalessandro has been on the air in Milwaukee College Retiree Wall of Fame. for more than 20 years and is currently the host of Lake Land College in Mattoon, created the 96.5 WKLH’s afternoon drive show. She’s moving to Retiree Wall of Fame in 2008 to honor the achieve- Phoenix to be afternoon host for station ments of past faculty and staff that helped to create 100.7 KSLX. the student-first culture the college lives by. Annually, Dalessandro “It probably seems like moving to in the the Board of Trustees chooses individuals who have dead of winter was a no brainer,” Dalessandro said in Beno made significant contributions to the college and/or a release, “but the truth is, it’s incredibly sad saying goodbye. I love who have made contributions to their profession and Milwaukee and have watched it grow over the last two decades. It community at the local, state, regional, or national level that reflect is an amazing, vibrant city full of good friends and great memories. positively on Lake Land College. Milwaukee will always hold a special place in my heart.” According to the nominating committee, “Beno created outstanding Dalessandro started her career in 1981 at a small station in opportunities for students through his instruction in the Radio/TV while still attending radio school. She moved to Milwaukee in 1998 Department and student radio station and led the development of when she was offered the opportunity to become morning host on the college’s leading edge distance learning program that expanded country station WMIL-FM. She was, at the time, the host of one of opportunities for residents to attend classes throughout the district.” only a handful of female-led morning shows in the nation. Awarded He also was the Chair of the Humanities/Communications Division for Broadcasting Personality of the Year by the Association seven years before he retired. in 2001 and 2015, Karen was inducted into the Country Radio Hall of Fame in 2015. In 2017 she moved to afternoons on WKTI-FM and in The recipients of the Retiree Wall of Fame honor have their plaques 2019 joined WKLH-FM as afternoon host. unveiled at the annual Employee and Retiree Recognition Celebration designed to reflect upon the past contributions of the honorees. Due In 2020 Dalessandro was named a WBA Local Broadcast Legend. She to COVID, this year’s ceremony will be online only. will be recognized Aug. 26 at the WBA Summer Conference at the Blue Harbor Resort in Sheboygan. Beno was also previously chosen as one of 50 persons who made a “significant contribution to the college in the first 50 years.” Her last day on the air was March 26. Christensen named to lead Midwest Communications stations in Duluth Scott Christensen is the ful vision he has for the Duluth/Superior Skramstad announced his retirement. new VP/Market Manager for market.” “I appreciate the opportunity to work for Midwest Communications’ Christensen served as director of sales for Duke and the amazing leadership team at stations in Duluth. Red Rock when their stations were acquired Midwest Communications,” Christensen said. In an internal company re- by Midwest Communications five years ago. “I have learned a lot over the past four years lease, CEO/President Duke He joined Midwest and has worked diligent- and look to grow the Duluth market.” Wright said, “I know that ly to lead the growing sales effort ever since. Christensen began his career in 2006 after nothing will stop (Scott) The position became vacant in February graduating from North Dakota State Univer- Christensen from fulfilling the success- when longtime VP/Market Manager Shawn sity in Fargo. 9 Wisconsin Broadcaster | wi-broadcasters.org Awards For Excellence Wisconsin’s broadcasters shine in online awards presentation

Congratulations Wisconsin broadcasters! If there Thank You! was ever a year more important for broadcasters to serve, inform, and engage our communities, and • Gala co-hosts Steve Lavin and Chris entire state, it was 2020. As my first year serving on Bernier the WBA Awards Gala Committee, it is so exciting Charlie Berens to be part of the dynamic team and plan a unique, • Tri-Marq Communications and hopefully one time only, virtual event. A fun • Leader Printing filled evening bouncing from virtual table to table, • American Awards & Promotions Heather Reese connecting with former colleagues, and meet- • The WBA Awards Committee - in- PBS Wisconsin ing new broadcasting friends. Keeping the night cluding the Voice of the WBA Awards, Awards Committee lively was Lindsay’s introductions to the long list of competitive, and some new, categories. All of the Lindsay Wood Davis fantastic work showcased this year goes to show the commitment of Wisconsin’s broadcasters. Congrats to all the finalists and to those who won! And let’s give a loud virtual applause to the WBA. Moving from virtual floor to floor was a tad easier this year with just the click of a button, but a quote from the hysterical pop-in guest Charlie Berens gives us something to look forward to: “Next year there’s gonna be a big in-person banger, as they says, in Madison at the Marriott.” Cheers to a year like no other! Sponsors Best Sports Reporting Large Market Television 1st Place WISN TV, Stephen Watson 2nd Place WISN TV, Stephanie Sutton Best Morning Newscast 3rd Place WITI TV, Diver Makes Social Media Splash 1st Place WISN TV, Officers Shot: Fugitive Manhunt Best Significant Community Impact 2nd Place WISN TV, Jacob Blake Police Shooting 1st Place WTMJ TV, Celebrating Juneteenth Day 3rd Place WYTU TV, Noticiero Wisconsin 11 a.m. 2nd Place WYTU TV, Telemundo Wisconsin Community Impact Best Evening Newscast 3rd Place WITI TV, Contact 6 1st Place WISN TV, Miller Rampage Best Specialty Programming 2nd Place WTMJ TV, TMJ4 News at 10 - Molson Coors Shooting 1st Place WDJT TV, CBS 58 Morning News Congratulates the 3rd Place WITI TV, Mayfair Mall Shooting Class of 2020 Primetime Special Best Sportscast 2nd Place WTMJ TV, The TMJ4 Positively Milwaukee Awards 3rd Place WISN TV, 50 Days Shutdown 1st Place WISN TV, Stephanie Sutton 2nd Place WITI TV, Tim Van Vooren Best Image Promotion 3rd Place WDJT TV, Scott Grodsky Composite 1st Place WTMJ TV, We Are Milwaukee: Nurse Christin Best Weathercast 2nd Place WTMJ TV, TMJ4 News: Celebrate the Good 3rd Place WISN TV, WISN 12 2020 Year Ender 1st Place WDJT TV, Drew Burgoyne Composite 2nd Place WISN TV, Lindsey Slater Best Weather Promotion 3rd Place WITI TV, Tom Wachs 1st Place WDJT TV, 2020 Summer Drew Gets Me Ready 30 Best Continuing Coverage 2nd Place WTMJ TV, Storm Team 4: Brighter Tomorrows 3rd Place WISN TV, WISN 12 Mark Baden Fall 2020 1st Place WISN TV, Jacob Blake Police Shooting 2nd Place WTMJ TV, Unemployment System Collapse Best Topical Promotion 3rd Place WDJT TV, CBS 58 Jacob Blake Shooting and Unrest 1st Place WISN TV, WISN 12 Kenosha Continuing Coverage Best Spot News 2nd Place WDJT TV, CBS 58 News “Primed and Ready” 3rd Place WISN TV, WISN 12 News at 10 - What’s Next 1st Place WITI TV, No Charges for Officer Mensah 2nd Place WISN TV, Officers Shot: Fugitive Manhunt Best Public Service Announcement 3rd Place WDJT TV, CBS 58 Breaking News Coverage of the 1st Place WISN TV, WISN 12 Pet Walk 2020 Mayfair Mall Shooting 2nd Place WTMJ TV, Science Day with TMJ4 Best News Writing 3rd Place WITI TV, Buddy Check 6 1st Place WDJT TV, Barn Basketball Best Commercial or Underwriting Announcement 2nd Place WTMJ TV, Calligraphy Man 1st Place WYTU TV, Prime Financial Credit Union 3rd Place WTMJ TV, Juan Pablo Strong 2nd Place WTMJ TV, We’re Open: Seider Best Hard News/Investigative 3rd Place WTMJ TV, FHK Insurance 1st Place WDJT TV, Sick and Sued Best Coverage of Civil Discourse and Social Change 2nd Place WITI TV, Reckless Driving 1st Place WDJT TV, CBS 58 Morning News Race and Justice 3rd Place WITI TV, Case of the Missing Uniforms Special Best Series or Documentary 2nd Place WISN TV, Changing The Game 3rd Place WISN TV, Project Community: A Panel on Community 1st Place WISN TV, Unemployment Backlog and Policing 2nd Place WITI TV, Inside a Mystery: Milwaukee Cold Cases 3rd Place WISN TV, Milwaukee Police Chief Chaos Best Pandemic-Related Service to Community Best Feature 1st Place WISN TV, Save Our Store 2nd Place WITI TV, Feed a Hero 1st Place WITI TV, Driveway Turned Center Stage 3rd Place WTMJ TV, The Rebound Milwaukee 2nd Place WYTU TV, Nacho Libre Police DACA/Dreamer In Uniform/SOÑADOR CON UNIFORME Best Election Coverage 3rd Place WTMJ TV, College at 14 1st Place WTMJ TV, Election 2020 Best Live On-Scene Reporting 2nd Place WISN TV, Commitment 2020: Election Preview 1st Place WITI TV, Aaron Maybin Best Website 2nd Place WISN TV, Matt Smith 1st Place WDJT TV, CBS58.com 3rd Place WISN TV, Hannah Hilyard 2nd Place WISN TV, WISN.com Best Use of Video 3rd Place WTMJ TV, TMJ4.com 1st Place WDJT TV, Tintype Photography Best Web Story 2nd Place WISN TV, Jason Hunter 1st Place WTMJ TV, Waiting for Benefits 3rd Place WITI TV, Venmo Challenge 2nd Place WITI TV, ‘I’m 6 and 3!’ Reckless driver tracks his high speed chases 3rd Place WITI TV, Judge Orders Gov. Evers to turn over emails to FOX6 Wisconsin Broadcaster | May/June 2021 11 Best Use of Social Media Best Feature 1st Place WDJT TV, CBS 58 Morning News FB Live Q&A 1st Place PBS Wisconsin, Wisconsin Life: A Doll Like Me 2nd Place WISN TV, Jacob Blake police shooting 2nd Place WMTV TV, Tools To Succeed 3rd Place WTMJ TV, TMJ4 News Social Media 3rd Place WMTV TV, Scott and Shannon’s Love Story Best Original Digital Content Best Live On-Scene Reporting 1st Place WTMJ TV, My Block: Peace Gardens at Sherman Park 1st Place WMTV TV, NBC15’s George Balekji 2nd Place WITI TV, Open Record 2nd Place WISC TV, Madalyn O’Neill Compilation 3rd Place WITI TV, Deff-initely Milwaukee 3rd Place WKOW TV, Lance Veeser Best Online Personality Best Use of Video 1st Place WTMJ TV, Vince Vitrano 1st Place PBS Wisconsin, Wisconsin Life: Skijoring 2nd Place WYTU TV, Jocelyne Pruna 2nd Place WISC TV, Beltline Bob hit twice 3rd Place WDJT TV, Justin Thompson-Gee 3rd Place WMTV TV, Hold Onto Hope Best Online Breaking News Coverage Best Sports Reporting 1st Place WISN TV, Miller Brewery mass shooting 1st Place WMTV TV, Using His Voice 2nd Place WITI TV, COVID-19 2nd Place WKOW TV, Overcoming the Odds 3rd Place WITI TV, Officer-involved Shooting of Jacob Blake 3rd Place WMTV TV, First Family of Pucks Best Significant Community Impact MediumMedium Market Television 1st Place WISC TV, Graduation 2020 - Born to Make History 2nd Place WMTV TV, Because of You - 25th Share Your Best Morning Newscast Holidays Campaign 1st Place WMTV TV, The Morning Show: Overnight Unrest 3rd Place WISC TV, Summer not forgotten 2nd Place WLUK TV, Good Day Wisconsin - Oct. 3, 2020 3rd Place WISC TV, Kenosha and Madison Unrest Best Specialty Programming 1st Place WISC TV, Names Behind the Numbers Best Evening Newscast 2nd Place WLUK TV, FOX 11 Community Cares Special 1st Place WKOW TV, 27 News at 5 6/1/20 3rd Place PBS Wisconsin, Wisconsin Young Artists Compete: 2nd Place WLUK TV, FOX 11 News at 9 - April 7, 2020 The Final Forte 3rd Place WISC TV, UW Madison shuts down Best Image Promotion Best Sportscast 1st Place WKOW TV, 27 News Drone Coverage Promo 1st Place WMTV TV, NBC15’s George Balekji 2nd Place PBS Wisconsin, PBS Wisconsin is Made in Wisconsin 2nd Place WBAY TV, Dave Schroeder 3rd Place WMTV TV, Wake up to More Image Top 3rd Place WMTV TV, NBC15 Sports Best Weather Promotion Best Weathercast 1st Place WKOW TV, Meteorologist John Zeigler - Impact 1st Place WKOW TV, John Zeigler 2nd Place WKOW TV, Johnny’s Weather School 2nd Place WISC TV, Chris Reece Compilation 3rd Place WISC TV, First Warn Weather - Trust Us 3rd Place WLUK TV, Justin Steinbrinck Best Topical Promotion Best Continuing Coverage 1st Place WKOW TV, Hacked Homes 1st Place WISC TV, Continuing Coverage of Madison Unrest 2nd Place WKOW TV, Beating the Bite 2nd Place WLUK TV, Lake Levels and Shore Erosion 3rd Place PBS Wisconsin, Nancy Zieman: Extraordinary Grace 3rd Place WMTV TV, Anisa Scott’s Death and Legacy Best Public Service Announcement Best Spot News 1st Place WMTV TV, Stop in the Name of Love 1st Place WISC TV, First Madison protests 2nd Place WISC TV, Time For Kids - Recipe For Health 2020 2nd Place WKOW TV, Madison Protests 3rd Place WMSN TV, Wisconsin Medical Society and Nurses 3rd Place WKOW TV, Molson Coors Shooting Association - Your Health Can’t Wait Best News Writing Best Commercial or Underwriting Announcement 1st Place WKOW TV, Happy Heart Hunt 1st Place WKOW TV, Isthmus Eats Commercial 2nd Place WKOW TV, Ode to Flansy 2nd Place WMSN TV, Toppers Drama Theater - The Family Dinner 3rd Place WMTV TV, A Simple Stone 3rd Place WLUK TV, Toro Snowblower 2020 Maggie Best Hard News/Investigative Best Coverage of Civil Discourse and Social Change 1st Place WBAY TV, Waushara County DA MIA 1st Place WISC TV, Covering social change 2nd Place WMTV TV, NBC15 Investigates: Chaos in Kenosha, 2nd Place WBAY TV, Power 2 Change the questions that remain 3rd Place WKOW TV, WKOW 3rd Place WISC TV, The politicization of misinformation Best Pandemic-Related Service to Community Best Series or Documentary 1st Place WMTV TV, ‘Care Box Challenge’ Raises Nearly $3.4M 1st Place WMTV TV, Class During COVID In Its First 100 Days 2nd Place PBS Wisconsin, Nancy Zieman: Extraordinary Grace 2nd Place WKOW TV, Feeding Hope Text-A-Thon 3rd Place WFRV TV, WFRV Investigates “Letter to the Community: 3rd Place PBS Wisconsin, At-Home Learning An Open Conversation About Race” 12 Wisconsin Broadcaster | wi-broadcasters.org Best Election Coverage Best Continuing Coverage 1st Place WKOW TV, November Presidential Election 1st Place WKBT TV, Election 2020 2nd Place WISC TV, News 3 Now: Election 2020 2nd Place WEAU TV, Superintendent Arrested 3rd Place PBS Wisconsin, Here & Now 3rd Place WSAW TV, Unemployment in Wisconsin Due to COVID-19 Pandemic Best Website 1st Place PBS Wisconsin, WisContext Best Spot News 2nd Place PBS Wisconsin, PBS Wisconsin Education 1st Place WJFW TV, Rib Lake Break-Ins 3rd Place WFRV TV, Wearegreenbay.com WFRV Television/Digital 2nd Place WEAU TV, Cadott Tornado Website for 2020 3rd Place WKBT TV, Covid-Case 1 Best Web Story Best News Writing 1st Place PBS Wisconsin, No Place Like Home 1st Place WKBT TV, Sound of Giving 2nd Place WFRV TV, WFRV Digital: “THEN & NOW: Protests in 2nd Place WAOW TV, Fighting for Justice Northeast Wisconsin” 3rd Place WSAW TV, Cheryl Coyer Makes Quilts for Veterans 3rd Place PBS Wisconsin, WisContext: The Coronavirus Pandemic and Face Masks Best Hard News/Investigative 1st Place WKBT TV, Breaking the Silence Best Use of Social Media 2nd Place WSAW TV, 7Investigates: When You Can’t Call 911 1st Place WKOW TV, Social media coverage following the shooting 3rd Place WSAW TV, 7Investigates: Patients Caught in of Jacob Blake in Kenosha Insurance Battle 2nd Place WBAY TV, Best Use of Social Media - Steve’s Weather School - WBAY Best Series or Documentary 3rd Place WKOW TV, Social video at 27 News WKOW 1st Place WLAX TV, Rivertown La Crosse 2nd Place WXOW TV, Race in La Crosse Schools Best Original Digital Content 3rd Place KBJR TV, KBJR 6 News Presents: Missing & Murdered: 1st Place PBS Wisconsin, The Light An Invisible Epidemic 2nd Place PBS Wisconsin, State Street Mural Project 3rd Place WISC TV, Election Night livestream Best Feature 1st Place WQOW TV, Amy Swinehouse Best Online Personality 2nd Place WXOW TV, The Man Behind the Napkins 1st Place WMTV TV, NBC15’s Tim Elliott 3rd Place WEAU TV, Anthony’s Legacy 2nd Place WKOW TV, Sara Maslar-Donar, reporter and weekend morning anchor Best Live On-Scene Reporting 3rd Place WBAY TV, Best Online Personality - Dave Schroeder - 1st Place WKBT TV, Jordan Fremstad Compilation WBAY 2nd Place WEAU TV, Zach Prelutsky 3rd Place WSAW TV, Stella Porter Compilation Best Online Breaking News Coverage 1st Place WMTV TV, Downtown Demonstrations Best Use of Video 2nd Place WKOW TV, Five coworkers killed, gunman also dead 1st Place WKBT TV, Falling In Love in Milwaukee brewery mass shooting 2nd Place WSAW TV, You Know You’re From Merrill: 3rd Place WISC TV, Channel 3000 Protest Coverage Emma’s Sweet Corn 3rd Place WXOW TV, COVID Stay-at-Home Concert Small Market Television Best Sports Reporting 1st Place WJFW TV, Great Northern Riding Club Best Morning Newscast 2nd Place WJFW TV, Karlie Woodall 1st Place WSAW TV, The New Back to School: 3rd Place WSAW TV, Mound Masterpieces Sept. 3, 2020 Newscast 2nd Place WKBT TV, News 8 Now This Morning-The Morning After Best Significant Community Impact 3rd Place WXOW TV, MidDay 5-14-2020 1st Place WKBT TV, Steppin’ Out in Pink 2020 2nd Place WKBT TV, Joy of Sharing 2020 Best Evening Newscast 3rd Place WEAU TV, Wagner Tails 1st Place KBJR TV, KBJR 6 News at 10 2nd Place WJFW TV, WJFW Newswatch 12 at 10 Best Specialty Programming 3rd Place CBS3 - Duluth Superior, CBS 3 News Live at 5 1st Place WQOW TV, The Power of Band 2nd Place WJFW TV, Tiffany/Zunker Congressional Debate Best Sportscast 3rd Place CBS3 - Duluth Superior, CBS 3 News Presents: 1st Place WSAW TV, Matt Infield Sports Anchoring Compilation Race & Campaign 2020 2nd Place WQOW TV, WQOW Best Sportscast 3rd Place WSAW TV, Reece Van Haaften Sports Anchoring Best Image Promotion Compilation 1st Place WXOW TV, Sports Overtime Workout 2nd Place WKBT TV, Mom Best Weathercast 3rd Place WEAU TV, Hello Wisconsin- Pandemic Greetings 1st Place WSAW TV, Jeremy Tabin Meteorologist Compilation 2nd Place WSAW TV, Mark Holley Meteorologist Compilation 3rd Place WKBT TV, Michelle Poedel Compilation

Wisconsin Broadcaster | May/June 2021 13 Best Weather Promotion 1st Place WSAW TV, Mark’s Garden Large Market Radio 2nd Place WEAU TV, WEAU Lifestyle Weather 3rd Place WAOW TV, Get Outside News and Talk Best Topical Promotion Best Morning Radio Show 1st Place WSAW TV, Black Lives Matter POP 1st Place WTMJ AM, Wisconsin’s Monring News 2nd Place WSAW TV, The Student Experience 2nd Place WSSP AM, Bart Winkler Morning Show 3rd Place WEAU TV, Hello Wisconsin 227 Best Radio Show Best Public Service Announcement 1st Place WSSP AM, Big Show- Leroy Butler becomes 1st Place WSAW TV, Children’s Miracle Network - Extra Life 1st time finalist for HOF 2nd Place WEAU TV, Together 2nd Place WTMJ AM, Wisconsin’s Afternoon News 3rd Place WKBT TV, Food Drive Fridays 3rd Place WISN AM, The Dan O’Donnell Show Best Commercial or Underwriting Announcement Best Newscast 1st Place WSAW TV, Wausau School District - Teachers 1st Place WTMJ AM, Wisconsin’s Afternoon News 2nd Place WLAX TV, Big Boar BBQ 2nd Place WTMJ AM, Wisconsin’s Morning News 3rd Place WAOW TV, Next Step Prosthetics Best Sportscast Best Coverage of Civil Discourse and Social Change 1st Place WTMJ AM, Greg Matzek 1st Place WEAU TV, Protest Montage 2nd Place WTMJ AM, Bryan Dee 2nd Place WQOW TV, Hometown Conversations 3rd Place WSAW TV, Race, Law Enforcement and Social Justice Best Continuing Coverage Compilation 1st Place WTMJ AM, Unrest in Kenosha Best Pandemic-Related Service to Community 2nd Place WORT FM, Madison Poised for Police Oversight Board 3rd Place WUWM FM, MPS Spring Remote Learning Rollout 1st Place WEAU TV, At Home With Amie 2nd Place WEAU TV, School’s in Session Best Spot News 3rd Place WSAW TV, Singing for Their Supper 1st Place WORT FM, Stop, Dont Go: SASY Neighborhood Pushes Best Election Coverage Against Removal Of Postal Services 2nd Place WISN AM, The Miller Brewery Shooting 1st Place WEAU TV, 2020 Election Coverage 3rd Place WTMJ AM, Molson Coors shooting 2nd Place WSAW TV, Election 2020 Coverage 3rd Place WJFW TV, Election Composite Best News Writing Best Website 1st Place WISN AM, A More Perfect Union 2nd Place WUWM FM, PFAS Concern Remains High In Marinette 1st Place KBJR TV, KBJR6.COM 3rd Place WTMJ AM, The Show Must Go On 2nd Place WQOW TV, WQOW.com 3rd Place WAOW TV, .com Best Hard News/Investigative Best Web Story 1st Place WTMJ AM, Wisconsin Prison COVID-19 Outbreak 2nd Place WUWM FM, MPS May Be ‘Losing The Best And 1st Place WEAU TV, The Crossroads of Love and Compassion Brightest’ Due To HR Problems 2nd Place WEAU TV, Superintendent Arrested 3rd Place WUWM FM, Police Brutality Protest 3rd Place WSAW TV, Graduate Surprises Fellow Classmates by Walking to get Diploma Best Feature Best Use of Social Media 1st Place WUWM FM, Owl Family Captures Milwaukee Suburb’s Heart During Coronavirus Pandemic 1st Place WKBT TV, News 8 Now Online 2nd Place WTMJ AM, Stories of the Heart: Michael Saxby 2nd Place WJFW TV, Maya Reese - #NorthwoodsNoise 3rd Place WORT FM, Radio Chipstone: The Last Note 3rd Place WQOW TV, Best Use of Social Media Best Use of Audio in Radio News Best Original Digital Content 1st Place WUWM FM, Deputies Fraternize with Rittenhouse on 1st Place WKBT TV, News 8 Now Online Night of Fatal Shooting 2nd Place WJFW TV, In Case You Missed It 2nd Place WUWM FM, Orchestra Aims To Provide Healing Amid 3rd Place WSAW TV, WSAW Sports Podcast on replacing a legend Coronavirus Pandemic on the ice 3rd Place WORT FM, Goodman Pool Reopens for the Summer Best Online Personality Best Live On-Scene Reporting 1st Place WEAU TV, Tucker Antico 1st Place WTMJ AM, Milwaukee Protests 2nd Place WEAU TV, Justus Cleveland 2nd Place WISN AM, The Mayfair Mall Shooting 3rd Place WJFW TV, Maya Reese 3rd Place WTMJ AM, Molson Coors shooting Best Online Breaking News Coverage Best Interview 1st Place WEAU TV, Eau Claire Protest 1st Place WISN AM, Joseph Mensah’s First Interview 2nd Place WSAW TV, Live on scene coverage of an officer 2nd Place WTMJ AM, The Poll Worker involved shooting 3rd Place WTMJ AM, Bob Costas 3rd Place WSAW TV, Local Hospital has a press event to discuss COVID situation 14 Wisconsin Broadcaster | wi-broadcasters.org Best Sports Play By Play Best Online Personality 1st Place WTSO AM, Madison East deals top-ranked rival Madison 1st Place WTMJ AM, Bryan Dee La Follette their only loss of the 2019-2020 season 2nd Place Wisconsin Public Radio , Laurel White -- Twitter 3rd Place WTMJ AM, Steve Scaffidi Best Significant Community Impact 1st Place WTMJ AM, Kids 2 Kids Christmas Best Online Breaking News Coverage 2nd Place WTMJ AM, Pass the Turkey 1st Place WTMJ AM, Molson Coors shooting 3rd Place WKTI FM, ESPN Wisconsin Radiothon with 2nd Place Wisconsin Public Radio , Madison, Milwaukee Pat Connaughton Protests 3rd Place WTMJ AM, Protestors take to the streets of Milwaukee Best Specialty Programming 1st Place WTMJ AM, WTMJ 2021 2nd Place WKTI FM, 9th Annual Wisconsin Sports Awards Medium Market Radio 3rd Place WISN AM, A Dan O’Donnell Show Christmas Special Best Promotional Announcement News and Talk 1st Place WORT FM, Bad Sister Heidi’s Year-End Giving 2nd Place WTMJ AM, Through It All Best Morning Radio Show 3rd Place WKTI FM, ESPN Milwaukee Fantasy Football 1st Place WKTY AM, WKTY Morning Show with Dave Carney 2nd Place WOMT AM, Lee & Damon in the Morning Best Commercial or Underwriting Announcement 1st Place WSSP AM, Brothers Consolidated HVAC; Too Loud Best Radio Show 2nd Place WTMJ AM, Black Husky 1st Place WKTY AM, The Grant Bilse Show 3rd Place WSSP AM, Otto’s and Spirits; Home Town 2nd Place WHLA FM, Newsmakers: Activist/Actor Dodie Whitaker 3rd Place KUWS FM, Protest, Solutions and Challenges Following Best Humorous Commercial or Underwriting Announcement the Death of George Floyd 1st Place WTMJ AM, Sentry Foods 2nd Place WTMJ AM, CPAP Rx Best Newscast 3rd Place WSSP AM, Wisconsin Indoor Golf Center; The Bird 1st Place WTAQ AM, WTAQ’s Morning News 2nd Place WTAQ AM, WTAQ’s News At Noon Best Coverage of Civil Discourse and Social Change 3rd Place WSAU FM, WSAU News Mike Leischner 1st Place WUWM FM, Protests for Police Reform, Social Justice 2nd Place WRNW FM, The Crossover Tackles Social Justice Best Continuing Coverage 3rd Place WTMJ AM, “No justice, no peace” 1st Place WRJN AM, Continuing riots in Kenosha 2nd Place WFDL AM, Flattening The Curve Best Pandemic-Related Service to Community 3rd Place WTAQ AM, NE Wisconsin’s COVID 19 Journey 1st Place WUWM FM, The Coronavirus Pandemic in Wisconsin 2nd Place WISN AM, The Latest Word on Medicine Best Spot News 1st Place WTAQ AM, Green Bay BLM March Best Election Coverage 2nd Place WTAQ AM, Popeyes Big Day 1st Place WUWM FM, Election 2020 3rd Place WOMT AM, Local Man Camps Out for Week 2nd Place WTMJ AM, Decision Wisconsin Best News Writing Best Website 1st Place WTAQ AM, Haunted Green Bay 1st Place WTMJ AM, WTMJ.com 2nd Place WSAU FM, Grand Opening held for JoJo’s Jungle 2nd Place Wisconsin Public Radio, WPR.org’s Coronavirus In 3rd Place WOMT AM, Stay at Home High School Senior Wisconsin Section 3rd Place Wisconsin Public Radio, WPR.org Best Hard News/Investigative 1st Place WTAQ AM, Green Bay Riot Best Web Story 2nd Place WOMT AM, Local Soldier Voice Frustrations with VA 1st Place WUWM FM, Milwaukee’s Lost Town of Lake 3rd Place WFDL AM, Lakeside Park: A Community Divided 2nd Place Wisconsin Public Radio, Why Is There A “Wau” In So Many Wisconsin Place Names? Best Feature 3rd Place WTMJ AM, Mercurious 1st Place WOMT AM, Area Man Granted His Dying Wish 2nd Place WTAQ AM, Mary’s Heart Best Use of Social Media 3rd Place WTAQ AM, Cop On A Mission 1st Place WTMJ AM, Wisconsin’s Radio Station 2nd Place Wisconsin Public Radio, WPR Twitter Strategy Best Use of Audio in Radio News 3rd Place Wisconsin Public Radio, WPR Facebook Strategy 1st Place WTAQ AM, Veteran’s Day 2nd Place WOMT AM, Accordian Month Best Original Digital Content 3rd Place WOMT AM, Local Man Recalls Rare Poker Loss to Mom 1st Place WTMJ AM, Convention Countdown 2nd Place Wisconsin Public Radio, COVID-19 Live Blog Coverage Best Live On-Scene Reporting 3rd Place WTMJ AM, Decision Wisconsin 1st Place WTAQ AM, Election Day Is Here 2nd Place WTAQ AM, Pzacki Day

Wisconsin Broadcaster | May/June 2021 15 Best Interview Best Original Digital Content 1st Place WOMT AM, Prevea Health Matters - Tomi Genske 1st Place WIZM AM, Around River City: Lisa’s Implants 2nd Place WSAU FM, Pre-election interview with Wausau 2nd Place WOMT AM, Hello Lakeshore Mayor Katie Rosenberg 3rd Place WIZM AM, Aroiund River City: Students and Corona 3rd Place WIZM AM, What Is Justice? Best Online Personality Best Sports Play By Play 1st Place WOMT AM, Lee Douglas 1st Place WOMT AM, Kiel at Roncalli Girls 2nd Place WOMT AM, Terry Stevenson 2nd Place WFDL AM, Waupun’s Sectional Showdown 3rd Place KFIZ AM, Springs State Championship Hockey Best Online Breaking News Coverage Coverage Play by Play 1st Place WOMT AM, Protest Forms Outside Wisconsin Aluminum Foundry Best Specialty Programming 1st Place WOMT AM, 2020 Lincoln High School Graduation 2nd Place WOMT AM, Sports Talk Small Market Radio Small News Best Promotional Announcement News and Talk 1st Place WOMT AM, Seehafer News App 2nd Place WKTY AM, Murder Hornets Best Morning Radio Show 3rd Place WIZM AM, Miracle on 34th Street 1st Place WRJO FM, Wake up with The Wolf Best Public Service Announcement 2nd Place WHYB FM, Chuck and Jim Show- Veterans Day Salute 1st Place WOMT AM, Lake Shore CAP 3rd Place WBEV AM, WBEV Morning Show- John Moser Says Farewell Best Commercial or Underwriting Announcement 1st Place WIZM AM, A Christmas Most Sour Best Radio Show 2nd Place WOMT AM, Green Bay Gamblers 1st Place WBEV AM, Breaktime 3rd Place WSAU FM, Linetec - Nov Recruitment 2nd Place WFBZ FM, The Sports Lead ESPN 105.5 3rd Place WHYB FM, Swap Shop Best Humorous Commercial or Underwriting Announcement 1st Place WKTY AM, Harden Rules Best Newscast 2nd Place WSAU FM, Mullins Cheese Spring Concert 1st Place WRJO FM, Corona 2020 3rd Place WOGO AM, The Raven Team “Leave It To The Pros” 2nd Place WHYB FM, WHYB AM News 01/08/2020 3rd Place WTCH AM, WTCH News Feb 12, 2020 Best Coverage of Civil Discourse and Social Change 1st Place WOMT AM, Manitowoc Race Relations Best Sportscast 2nd Place WTTN AM, The Earl Ingram Show - Kenosha Day 1st Place WBEV AM, Daily Dodge Sports of Non-Protest 2nd Place WWIS FM, WWIS Sportscasts 2020 3rd Place WIZM AM, Juneteenth 3rd Place WHYB FM, High School Football Roundup Best Pandemic-Related Service to Community Best Continuing Coverage 1st Place WOMT AM, COVID 19 Coverage 1st Place WHYB FM, COVID-19 Pandemic 2nd Place WOGO AM, Radio Broadcasts Chi-Hi “Drive-In 2nd Place WHYB FM, PFAS Contamination Graduation!” 3rd Place WBEV AM, Formation Of Beaver Dam Lake District 3rd Place WFDL AM, COVID Pandemic: Protecting The Community Best Spot News Best Election Coverage 1st Place WRJO FM, Eagle River Trump Rally 1st Place WTAQ AM, Election 2020 2nd Place WBEV AM, Election Postponed With County Clerk 2nd Place WOMT AM, Debates & Election Coverage Live On Air 3rd Place WHWC FM, Legislative Debates 3rd Place WXPR FM, October Snow Best Website Best News Writing 1st Place WSAU FM, WSAU.com 1st Place WHYB FM, Lake Perch Shortage 2nd Place WOMT AM, Seehafernews.com 2nd Place WHYB FM, COVID & Domestic Violence 3rd Place WXPR FM, COVID-19 Frustrations Rise with the Best Web Story Number of Cases 1st Place WSAU FM, Arrest made decades later in 1984 Wood County murder Best Hard News/Investigative 2nd Place WOMT AM, Despite Restrictions, A Group 1st Place WRJO FM, Safer at Home Lifted of Friends Have Found a Way To Continue A 2nd Place WXPR FM, Great Lakes Water Level Crisis Thursday Night Tradition 3rd Place WHYB FM, President Trump Visits Marinette Marine 3rd Place WSAU FM, Stevens Point City Council Votes Down Best Feature Proposal to Allow Football at Goerke Park 1st Place WHYB FM, Future Fund Best Use of Social Media 2nd Place WRJO FM, 2020 Polar Bear Plunge 1st Place WOMT AM, United as One Fundraiser 3rd Place WRJO FM, Hayward Lumberjack Championship 2nd Place WOMT AM, Memorial Day Ceremony 3rd Place WSAU FM, Facebook and Twitter 16 Wisconsin Broadcaster | wi-broadcasters.org Best Use of Audio in Radio News Best Website 1st Place WTCH AM, Bus Driver Appreciation 1st Place WBEV AM, DailyDodge.com 2nd Place WXPR FM, Trout Streams, Beaver Dams, and Explosives 3rd Place WRJO FM, Memorial Day 2020 Best Web Story 1st Place WHYB FM, LCS 25 Launched at Marinette Marine Best Live On-Scene Reporting 2nd Place WXPR FM, Fighting Phosphorus on the Big Eau Pleine 1st Place WHYB FM, Menominee County Election Results 3rd Place WXPR FM, Next Door to Drilling 2nd Place WHYB FM, President Trump Speaks at Marinette Marine 3rd Place WRJO FM, Eagle River Pond Hockey Best Use of Social Media 1st Place WBEV AM, Daily Dodge Best Interview 2nd Place WWIS FM, Mother’s Day Shoutouts 1st Place WBEV AM, Neurodiversity (say that ten times fast) 3rd Place WHYB FM, Back to School Photo Contest 2nd Place WHYB FM, FFG(X), COVID-19 Interview with Governor Evers Best Original Digital Content 3rd Place WTCH AM, Spooky Places 1st Place WBEV AM, 2 for the Road 2nd Place WBEV AM, 2020 Youth Animal Expo Best Sports Play By Play 3rd Place WHYB FM, Shoreline Shopping Show 1st Place WBEV AM, BD Girls Punch Ticket to State 2nd Place WHYB FM, Emma Anderson Reaches 1000 Points Best Online Personality 3rd Place WMAM AM, Katelyn Kitzinger All-Time Leading Scorer 1st Place WWIS FM, Mary Gerdes 2nd Place WBEV AM, Wade Bates Best Significant Community Impact 1st Place WRJO FM, A Day with Angel Pledge-A-Thon Best Online Breaking News Coverage 2nd Place WBEV AM, 2020 Children’s Radiothon 1st Place WBEV AM, Multiple People Shot In Mayville 3rd Place WHYB FM, “Look for the Helpers” Series 2nd Place WHYB FM, Officer-Involved Shooting Death Reported in Marinette County Best Specialty Programming 1st Place WRJO FM, Live FORK Concert 2nd Place WTCH AM, Shawano Senior Spotlight Large Market Radio 3rd Place WRJO FM, Live Memorial Day Ceremony Music Format Best Promotional Announcement 1st Place WWIS FM, Happy Hours With Josh Donovan Best Morning Radio Show 2nd Place WBEV AM, - Baseballitis 1st Place WJQM FM, Best Morning Radio Show: 3rd Place WFBZ FM, ESPN 105.5 Sports Lead Krista & The Morning Rush Best Public Service Announcement 2nd Place WLDB FM, “Feel Good Mornings with Joe” 1st Place WBEV AM, Children’s Radiothon Amazon Smile 3rd Place WLSP LP, Good Morning Sun Prairie: Baker Street 2nd Place WRJO FM, Holiday Help for Non-Profits Best Radio Show 3rd Place WWIS FM, JC Dairy Promotion Committee 1st Place WJQM FM, Best Radio Show: DJ Fusion - Curds for Kids PSA 2nd Place WVMO FM, The Good Kind Best Commercial or Underwriting Announcement 3rd Place WLSP LP, Song Archaeology 1st Place WRJO FM, Frasiers Winter is Coming Best Newscast 2nd Place WBEV AM, Rechecks - Future Turkey Cop 1st Place WLSP LP, Sun Prairie In Focus 3rd Place WBEV AM, Vita Park Singing Eye Docs Christmas Carol 2nd Place WVMO FM, Monona Bird Report Best Humorous Commercial or Underwriting Announcement 3rd Place WVMO FM, Community Calendar 1st Place WRJO FM, Prime Choice Where Ya’ Takin’ Your Deer Best Interview 2nd Place WBEV AM, Surefire - Frigid Hearts 1st Place WMMM FM, Live from Studio M with Black Pumas 3rd Place WRJO FM, Kneaded Relief Christmas Massage 2nd Place WLUM FM, FM 102.1 Adler Interviews Actor Comedian Best Coverage of Civil Discourse and Social Change Television Host Matt Iseman 1st Place WRJO FM, Bucks March and Kenosha Protest 3rd Place WVMO FM, Archeology Interview 2nd Place WBEV AM, Reaction To George Floyd Killing Best Original Feature 3rd Place WHYB FM, Black Lives Matter Protest on 1st Place WJQM FM, Breaking Bad News: Marta Can’t Sing Stephenson Island In Wedding Best Pandemic-Related Service to Community 2nd Place WVMO FM, Native American History 1st Place WJMC AM, Barron County Covid Q & A 3rd Place WVMO FM, Giving Thanks to Local Music 2nd Place WXPR FM, COVID-19 Forums Best Live On-Site Broadcast Remote 3rd Place WWIS FM, COVID-19 Questions and Answers 1st Place WVMO FM, Loud in the Library Best Election Coverage Best Use of Audio (Non-News) 1st Place WXPR FM, Election 2020 Coverage 1st Place WJQM FM, Vicki Gunvalson Reality Check 2nd Place WHYB FM, Voting in the COVID-19 Era 2nd Place WJQM FM, We Appreciate You Staying Home 3rd Place WRJO FM, Election Coverage 2020 3rd Place WVMO FM, Monona Library: Wing It

Wisconsin Broadcaster | May/June 2021 17 Best Sports Coverage Best Website 1st Place WMMM FM, Packers Fake Crowd Guy 1st Place WVMO FM, WVMO.FM 2nd Place WLUM FM, FM 102.1 Adler Interviews AEW Wrestler Nyla Rose Best Use of Social Media 3rd Place WVMO FM, MG Sports Showcase 1st Place WJQM FM, 93.1 JAMZ 2nd Place WVMO FM, Local Music Video interviews Best Significant Community Impact 3rd Place WVMO FM, WVMO Shows & Community 1st Place WJQM FM, Krista’s Road to Recovery with Tellurian and Madison Police Officer Jodi Nelson Best Original Digital Content 2nd Place WJQM FM, 2020 Gifts of Christmas 1st Place WVMO FM, Zoomin’ with WVMO 3rd Place WVMO FM, Monona Mayor Reports 2nd Place WLDB FM, Taste Test Tuesday 3rd Place WJQM FM, Krista’s Road to Recovery with Tellurian Best Specialty Programming From Harker Heating & Cooling 1st Place WJQM FM, Madtown Mom Squad: Kiddos Give Fun Tips During Covid Best Online Personality 2nd Place WVMO FM, The VMO Show 1st Place WJQM FM, DJ Fusion 3rd Place WLSP LP, Homeroom with Brad Saron 2nd Place WVMO FM, Joe Martin 3rd Place WJQM FM, Krista & The Morning Rush Best Promotional Announcement 1st Place WVMO FM, Let’s Connect Best Live On-Site Coverage 2nd Place WJQM FM, 2020 Gifts of Christmas 1st Place WVMO FM, Sunday Afternoon Live with Buzz Kemper 3rd Place WVMO FM, WVMO Online Best Station Promo Medium Market Radio 1st Place WJQM FM, Why Moms Love Wine Music Medium 2nd Place WVMO FM, From The Couch Music Format 3rd Place WJQM FM, Tracy & DJ Fusion: FWB Top 20 Countdown Best Station Event Promo Best Morning Radio Show 1st Place WHTQ FM, Kori with a K and the More Music 1st Place WJQM FM, Fire Fighters Save Valentines Day With Morning Show - What’s the Secret Krista & The Morning Rush 2nd Place WFON FM, Mike and Marty In the Morning Nov 10, 2020 2nd Place WJQM FM, Weezy Sunday 3rd Place WIZM FM, Z-93 Morning Buzz 3rd Place WVMO FM, WVMO Movie Night Best Client Event Promo Best Radio Show 1st Place WVTY FM, Van McNeil - May 12th 2020 1st Place WVMO FM, Winnequah School Donation 2nd Place WIFC FM, Mike Mathers All Night Party 2nd Place WVMO FM, MGSD 4K Sign Up Best Public Service Announcement Best Newscast 1st Place WIFC FM, WIFC News 1st Place WXSS FM, American Heart Association: Teens talk 2nd Place WFDL FM, Morning News 2nd Place WXSS FM, American Heart Association: Lying Kills 3rd Place WOZZ FM, WOZZ News 12-30-2020 3rd Place WJQM FM, Now Open Best Commercial or Underwriting Announcement Best Interview 1st Place WOZZ FM, Interview With Diamante 1st Place WJQM FM, Terror At Tyrol 2nd Place WOZZ FM, Interview With Mike Protich Of The Violent 2nd Place WOLX FM, Middleton School District: Wheels On 3rd Place WIFC FM, Beverly D’ Angelo on WIFC The Bus 3rd Place WOLX FM, Middleton School District: Virtual This Best Original Feature Best Humorous Commercial or Underwriting Announcement 1st Place WOZZ FM, Artist Spotlight With Written By Wolves 2nd Place WIZM FM, Fit Fun Fab 1st Place WOLX FM, Aaron Weber Group; Move to Madison 3rd Place WIFC FM, Mikey Likes It Er No! 2nd Place WVMO FM, Monona Dog Park 3rd Place WJQM FM, Badger City Auto Humpback Whales Best Use of Audio (Non-News) Brake Special 1st Place WISM FM, A Christmas Carol Best Coverage of Civil Discourse and Social Change 2nd Place WISM FM, John Lennon/40 Years Since 1980 3rd Place WGTD FM, A CARTOONS-ON-THE RADIO 1st Place WJQM FM, Celebration of Life Anisa Scott - LEADING LADIES: ANGELA UBER ALLES. 2nd Place WVMO FM, Monona Community & Eight Can’t Wait 3rd Place WVMO FM, Monona Listening Session Best Sports Coverage Best Pandemic-Related Service to Community 1st Place WIFC FM, Tom King Sports WIFC 2nd Place WJMT AM, Chad Holmes Merrill volleyball 1st Place WLUM FM, FM 102.1 Save our Stages Radioathon sectional semifinal 2nd Place WLSP LP, Sun Prairie EMS and Healing Hearts Family 3rd Place WTCX FM, WLA Regional Showdown Counseling COVID PSAs 3rd Place WVMO FM, Supporting Local & Musicians Best Significant Community Impact 1st Place WYTE FM, Y106.5 CMN Radiothon 2nd Place WIZM FM, Season of Giving 3rd Place WIFC FM, Be the Match 18 Wisconsin Broadcaster | wi-broadcasters.org Best Specialty Programming Best Interview 1st Place WISM FM, A Christmas Carol 1st Place WRLS FM, Kikkan Randall American Olympic Champion 2nd Place WGLR FM, Gary Allan on The Big Show Best Promotional Announcement 3rd Place WAQE FM, Ryan Quinn with Officer Andy 1st Place WBCV FM, Flush 2020 Best Original Feature Best Station Promo 1st Place WCOW FM, Free Music Free For All 1st Place WHTQ FM, 15K Cash Stash 2nd Place WCOW FM, Arnie’s Dumb Thoughts 2nd Place WOZZ FM, Rock 94.7’s Virtual Festival 3rd Place WJMC FM, Barron County Fair On The Air 3rd Place WOZZ FM, Forgot About Dad Best Live On-Site Broadcast Remote Best Public Service Announcement 1st Place WCOW FM, Freedom Car Show 1st Place WQCC FM, Rotary Lights of La Crosse 2nd Place WCOW FM, Hidden Trails Corn Maze Best Commercial or Underwriting Announcement Best Use of Audio (Non-News) 1st Place WWIB FM, The Raven Team “Memories Start At Home” 1st Place WCOW FM, Turdy Point Buck 2nd Place WOZZ FM, Redemption Ink - Frankenstein’s Monster 2nd Place WHTL FM, Middays With Mark (show-open) 3rd Place WFON FM, Ledgerock Distillery 3rd Place WMBZ FM, You’re A Mean One, 2020 Best Humorous Commercial or Underwriting Announcement Best Sports Coverage 1st Place WWIB FM, Mason Companies “Stop The Stress” 1st Place WLST FM, Sportscast 12/16/2020 2nd Place WISM FM, Advanced Septic Installation “Craptastic” 2nd Place WCOW FM, Adam Roberts 3rd Place WFON FM, Busch Snowdays 3rd Place WCOW FM, Sports with Adam Roberts Best Coverage of Civil Discourse and Social Change Best Significant Community Impact 1st Place WGTD FM, Shooting Gives Small Town No Choice 1st Place WCOW FM, Dream Christmas But to Confront Racial Injustice and Inequality Issues 2nd Place WCOW FM, Senior Salute 2nd Place WISM FM, 715 Newsmakers 3rd Place WRCO AM, REC Drive-In Annual Meeting on WRCO AM 3rd Place WIZM FM, Shaundel Spivey Best Specialty Programming Best Pandemic-Related Service to Community 1st Place WPVL FM, Tribute to Brent 1st Place WIZM FM, Covid interview 2nd Place WCOW FM, Classic COW Charlie Daniels Tribute 2nd Place WJMT AM, “Hometown Concert for the Cause” 3rd Place WXRO FM, 95X 20 in 20 3rd Place WKSZ FM, March 13th Escalation of COVID Best Promotional Announcement Best Website 1st Place WPVL FM, Flo Rida Fridays 1st Place WOZZ FM, Rock 94.7 Website 2nd Place WCOW FM, Survey Triple Play Best Original Digital Content 3rd Place WCOW FM, Ben & Arnie 1st Place WAXX FM, Eat. . Shop. Local this holiday season! Best Station Promo 2nd Place WGLX FM, Wisconsin Rapids Polar Plunge 2020 1st Place WKFX FM, Lovin’ the Lake Pontoon Giveaway 3rd Place WBCV FM, Trying Brach’s Thanksgiving Candy 2nd Place WGLR FM, Queen B Brewers Promo Best Live On-Site Coverage 3rd Place WCOW FM, COW97’s 2020 1st Place WHTQ FM, Special Olympics Wisconsin Best Station Event Promo Closing Ceremonies 1st Place WCOW FM, COW97’s Virtual Fair Barn 2nd Place WCOW FM, William Hoffman St Jude Ride Small Market Radio Best Client Event Promo Music Small 1st Place WCOW FM, Armed Forces Day Concert 2020 Music Format 2nd Place WCOW FM, Features Fest 2020 3rd Place WPVL FM, Xtreme Summer of Memories Giveaway Best Morning Radio Show Best Public Service Announcement 1st Place WCOW FM, Ben & Arnie 1st Place WCOW FM, Gage Leis 2nd Place WCOW FM, Ben and Arnie COW97 2nd Place WCOW FM, Tomah Health Love Light 3rd Place WXRO FM, 95X Morning Show Best Commercial or Underwriting Announcement Best Radio Show 1st Place WGLR FM, Potosi Saloon - Fish Fry Friday 1st Place WCOW FM, Rachel Chase 2nd Place WJJH FM, Dr. McGillicuddy’s Shooting Straight 2nd Place WCOW FM, Mike in the Midday since 1865 3rd Place WSFQ FM, The ROCK Noon Lunchbox 3rd Place WCOW FM, Eddie’s Convenience Store Best Newscast Best Humorous Commercial or Underwriting Announcement 1st Place WCOW FM, Adam Roberts - COW97 News 1st Place WCOW FM, Pasture Pride Cheese Store 2nd Place WCOW FM, COW97 News with Adam Roberts 2nd Place WHTL FM, Rudy’s Cars and Trucks (Elvis) 3rd Place WJMC FM, News - April 8, 2020 3rd Place WJJH FM, Scenic Drive Creative

Wisconsin Broadcaster | May/June 2021 19 Best Coverage of Civil Discourse and Social Change Best Original Digital Content 1st Place WCOW FM, COW97 Social Change Coverage 1st Place WHTL FM, Wisconsin’s Heartland 2nd Place WSFQ FM, Greatest Rock Artist of All Time Best Pandemic-Related Service to Community 3rd Place WPVL FM, Tribute to Brent 1st Place WCOW FM, Virtual Fair Barn 2nd Place WCOW FM, COW97 Covid 360 Best Online Personality 3rd Place WKFX FM, Cameron High School Salute to Seniors 1st Place WHTL FM, Mike Gilbertson 2nd Place WCOW FM, Ben & Arnie Best Website 3rd Place WCOW FM, Rachel Chase 1st Place WGLR FM, WGLR.com 2nd Place WCOW FM, COW97.com Best Live On-Site Coverage 3rd Place WPVL FM, X1071.com 1st Place WCOW FM, Legendary Freedom Car Show 2nd Place WCOW FM, Rachel at Hidden Trails Best Use of Social Media 1st Place WPVL FM, Xtreme 107.1 Facebook 2nd Place WGLR FM, 97-7 Country on Facebook 3rd Place WCOW FM, COW97

2020 Social & Digital Media Operation of the Year

Television LARGE MARKET MEDIUM MARKET SMALL MARKET

WTMJ TV, Milwaukee PBS Wisconsin WEAU TV, Eau Claire News and LARGE MARKET MEDIUM MARKET SMALL MARKET

WTMJ AM, Milwaukee WOMT AM, Manitowoc WBEV AM, Beaver Dam LARGE MARKET MEDIUM MARKET SMALL MARKET

WVMO LP, Monona WHTQ FM, Wausau, Stevens Point WCOW FM, Sparta

20 Wisconsin Broadcaster | wi-broadcasters.org 2020 Station of the Year

Television LARGE MARKET MEDIUM MARKET SMALL MARKET

WISN TV, Milwaukee WKOW TV, Madison WSAW TV, Wausau News and Talk Radio LARGE MARKET MEDIUM MARKET SMALL MARKET

WTMJ AM, Milwaukee WOMT AM, Manitowoc WBEV AM, Beaver Dam Music Radio LARGE MARKET MEDIUM MARKET SMALL MARKET

WJQM FM, Madison WOZZ FM, Wausau WCOW FM, Sparta

2020 News Operation of the Year

Television LARGE MARKET MEDIUM MARKET SMALL MARKET

WISN TV, Milwaukee WMTV TV, Madison WKBT TV, La Crosse News and Talk Radio LARGE MARKET MEDIUM MARKET SMALL MARKET

WTMJ AM, Milwaukee WTAQ AM, Green Bay WHYB FM, Marinette

Wisconsin Broadcaster | May/June 2021 21 Educators’ Column Teaching, learning, and living during the pandemic It has been one year since we entered this historic content such as voiceover narration, contextual images and feedback pandemic that has had quite an effect on us all on the project development process that involved screen and project and that presented unprecedented challenges for sharing with programs like Adobe Premiere that proved to be conve- educators and students but offered some surprising nient and efficient. innovations as well. Last fall when students and faculty were given the option to return Last spring when we received notice that all classes to campus with social distancing measures, the majority of faculty were being moved to an online delivery platform elected to remain online but those of us who teach production and until further notice, it performance classes had to get creative to Erik L. Johnson Associate Professor of caused panic and forced accommodate limited occupancy for labs Stage & Screen Arts creativity like never be- and classrooms through the creation of UW-River Falls fore, especially for those smaller groups of students who alternat- of us who teach hands- ed with in-person attendance and online on experiential learning related courses. engagement which presented a viable alter- While I have been developing and native to online exclusive learning. teaching online courses for years that are Classes like “Introduction to Storytelling” conceptual and history focused, such as and “Field Production” offered students the “Media Literacy”, “Media Copywriting,” chance to learn the associated production and “Introduction to Film Studies,” all techniques and craft with the use of porta- courses have had an online component ble production equipment and accessories that allow for content sharing which that were facilitated with a “curbside to go” provided a platform for developing new check out process that required proper Professor Erik Johnson’s UWRF Stage & Screen Arts “Web Series” class ways of engaging students synchronous- cleaning and sanitation and prevented the practice directing on set using industry best practices for COVID social ly and asynchronously. spread of COVID germs in the process. distancing. Some examples of innovative teaching We are now in the final weeks of our spring and learning opportunities included pre- semester this year, where classes like “Web production fantasy casting and location scouting for student scripts Series” have adapted production industry best practices for socially for my “Advanced Field Production” class which had students select distanced production on sets which has afforded hands-on experi- actors (living or dead) to play the roles of the characters using a for- ential learning that exceeded initial expectations and will conclude mula to determine their specific qualifications and characteristics as with projects that the students can be proud of, especially knowing well as location scouting with imaginary budgets which also proved the additional challenges they have faced with pandemic modifica- to be interesting, fun, and effective. tions and experiences that will not be soon forgotten but will serve as Over the summer, students worked on service-learning projects reference and reminders of the power of creative resourcefulness and remotely in collaboration with non-profit organizations who provided perseverance. Kallenbach to retire after 35 years at Wisconsin Public Radio After 35 years, Wisconsin Crane said. “In the past 35 years, he’s influ- One of those former interns, Clara Neupert, Public Radio (WPR) Senior enced nearly every aspect of our work — as a has been appointed interim host of “The West Regional Manager and host host and manager, as a mentor and a leader, Side”. of “The West Side” Dean and as a colleague and friend. I will really miss Kallenbach is also a member of the Wisconsin Kallenbach is retiring. him.” Broadcasters Association Board of Directors Kallenbach joined WPR’s Throughout his career, Kallenbach has been where his experience has benefitted broad- bureau at UW- in 1986 driven by the relationships he’s built within casters throughout the state. “I’ve been as a reporter and local host WPR and in the community. He cultivated fortunate to know Dean for many years,” Kallenbach for NPR’s “.” partnerships with more than 30 non-profit WBA President and CEO Michelle Vetterkind The Menomonie campus arts, cultural, and humanitarian organizations said. “From his days managing WSUP-FM at bureau was part of an effort to expand WPR’s throughout western Wisconsin. He has also UW-Platteville to his current leadership role local journalism and community connections taken great care and pride in mentoring at WPR and membership on the WBA Board outside of the station’s headquarters in Mad- students, many of which he recruited to work of Directors, he’s always been the ‘rock solid’ ison. The bureau moved to Eau Claire in 1990 for WPR. broadcaster that you can count on. He’s simply an all-around terrific guy who’s been a and Kallenbach was promoted to Regional “My main focus as a regional manager has tremendous asset to our industry.” Manager. been to reflect the communities and issues of According to WPR Director Mike Crane, my region to WPR,” Kallenbach said. “In order Reflecting on his career at WPR and his work Kallenbach helped establish the regional to do that most effectively, you have to be in commercial radio and television, Kallen- model that WPR continues to rely on to this in the community, to be part of the commu- bach said, “I’ve had 46 years in a career that I day. “Dean is a wonderful advocate for the nity. But, what’s really kept me inspired has love. How can I be anything but grateful? I’ve power of local radio. He truly believes in been working with student broadcasters and been blessed.” community service and his entire approach to interns and seeing many of them grow into work and life exemplifies that commitment.,” great professionals.” 22 Wisconsin Broadcaster | wi-broadcasters.org WBA FOUNDATION In Remembrance La Crosse Hall of Famer remembered as ‘amazing broadcaster’ A La Crosse broadcaster who was inducted into the Jackson wrote, “Mike Kearns was an amazing broadcaster, co-worker WBA Hall of Fame with his father has died. and friend. Since I heard the news of his passing, I can’t stop thinking Mike Kearns was part of a father-son team that was about all the fun times I was lucky enough to be a part of.” the Voice of WKTY radio when it signed on the air Kearns attended the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse and Brown in 1948. His father, Charlie hosted WKTY’s morning Institute, learned the radio craft and the art of sportscasting from his show, “The Lead Balloon” from the day it signed on father, and was on the air at WKTY for 44 years. He retired from WKTY the air in 1948 and upon his death in 1981 when Mike on Dec. 23, 2016, which was declared “Mike Kearns Day” in La Crosse. took over the show. Kearns Charlie and Mike Kearns were inducted into the WBA Hall of Fame in Charlie was also the station’s first Sports Director 2009. and Mike assumed the position in 1981. Together, A private family memorial service was held and a celebration of life they delivered play-by-play on over 1,200 football games and 6,000 is planned for July 31, at the Myrick Park Main Shelter. Details will be basketball in their over 68 years behind the WKTY microphone. provided at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials in Mike’s name On the Mid-West Family La Crosse website, General Manager Brian are preferred and greatly appreciated. Jowett Fellowship supports training for photographers 5 to be honored as Local Broadcast Legends The Rick Jowett Fellowship was established in 2017 by the Wisconsin Broadcasters Association Foundation to support educational oppor- tunities for photographers and videographers who work in media in Wisconsin. Recipients of the fellowship can use the grant for professional devel- opment in the areas of photography and videography. Applicants must specify how the funds will be used. Potential uses include but are not limited to courses offered by the National Press Photogra- Karen Dalessandro, Erin Davisson, Peter Murphy, Bill McCollum, and John Moser phers Association, the Poynter Institute, or any accredited college or university. This fellowship intends Group to be recognized on Aug. 26 to award a total of up to $2,000 in Five Wisconsin broadcasters named 2020 WBA Local Broadcast Leg- grants annually to multiple recipients Submission ends fill be recognized at the 2021 WBA Summer Conference at the to cover part or all of the recipients’ Blue Harbor Resort in Sheboygan. Karen Dalessandro, Erin Davisson, expenses. Deadline is Peter Murphy, Bill McCollum, and John Moser will be recognized at the Apply at June 1 keynote luncheon on Aug. 26. www.wbafoundation.org/scholar- Read their bios at https://www.wi-broadcasters.org/legends ships-grants/rick-jowett-fellowship The Legends were named in 2020 but not ye recognized because of About Rick Jowett the pandemic. Rick grew up in a media family. His grandfather was The WBA Local Broadcast Legends Award was established in 2015 un- CEO of Forward Communications which owned der the direction of Bruce Grassman, owner/president of Results Radio. several television stations throughout the country. The award recognizes individuals who work behind the scenes and His family was also involved in the print media, the within their communities fulfilling the commitment broadcasters have Wausau Herald. made to serve their local communities. This award is a means to extend While in high school Rick began his career as a pho- recognition of these individuals beyond their local communities. tographer working for the Wausau Herald. Rick Jowett Individuals with 15 years or more service in Wisconsin broadcasting Jowett completed his degree in journalism (UW-Madison) may be nominated by their company, co-workers, community leaders, in the late 70s. Following graduation, Rick started his family members, and friends. The station or organization which the career in broadcasting as a still photographer at WMTV-TV, in Mad- nominee is associated with submits the nomination on behalf of the ison. Rick began working with the WBA in 1985 as the Association’s nominating individual(s). event photographer. He served graciously and unconditionally until Thank you to Bruce Grassman for his vision to establish the award. his passing.

Wisconsin Broadcasters Association Foundation Officers & Board of Directors www.wbafoundation.org

OFFICERS Treasurer BOARD OF DIRECTORS Anna Engelhart Dean Maytag Scott M. Trentadue Tom Walker Greg Bell WKOW-TV Retired Wisconsin Broadcaster Retired Wisconsin Broadcaster Chair of the Board Mid-West Family Broadcasting, Retired Wisconsin Broadcaster Al Lancaster Madison Bill Hurwitz Kelly Radandt Don Vesely WSAW-TV/WZAW-TV, Wausau Chris Bernier Retired Wisconsin Broadcaster Woodward Radio Group WMTV-TV, Madison President & CEO Radio Plus, Fond du Lac Appleton/Green Bay Vice Chair Michelle Vetterkind, R. Perry Kidder Jan Wade Bruce Grassman CAE Lynn Bieritz Retired Wisconsin Broadcaster David Sanks WISN-TV, Milwaukee Results Broadcasting Wisconsin Broadcasters Associa- Mid-West Family Broadcasting Retired Wisconsin Broadcaster tion Foundation Tom Koser Secretary Scott Chorski WAQE-AM/FM/WJMC-AM/FM/ Chuck Steinmetz Dick Record Retired Wisconsin Broadcaster WKFX-FM Rice Lake WITI-TV, Milwaukee Family Radio, La Crosse Wisconsin Broadcaster | May/June 2021 23 Calendar of Events LT

NV Series May 20, 2021 Webinar: Covering Law Enforcement: Being 3.5 – 10 kW FM Fair and Holding Accountable Presented by Kevin Benz, i-Media Strategies

Outstanding Efficiency June 16–17, 2021 WBA Summer Conference at Exceptional Value nautel.com Blue Harbor Resort, Sheboygan June 17, 2021 Webinar: Don’t be a Lazy Reporter Presented by Joe Little, KNSD-TV, San Diego Aug. 19, 2021 WE LIVE HERE. Webinar: Copyright WE WORK HERE. Presented by David Oxenford, Wilkinson, Barker, Knauer Aug. 25-26, 2021 WE SERVE HERE. WBA Summer Conference Blue Harbor Resort, Sheboygan Wisconsin Broadcasters help keep our ranks full so we can serve when called upon. What Sept. 8-10, 2021 you do matters. Thank you for your support. Broadcasters Clinic Madison Marriott West Visit nationalguard.com Sept. 16 2021 Webinar: Monetizing Podcasts Presented by Seth Resler, Jacobs Media Strategies Nov. 18, 2021 Webinar: Political File Presented by David Oxenford, Wilkinson, Barker, Knauer Feb. 5, 2022 Student Seminar Madison Marriott West Feb. 5, 2022 Student Seminar Madison Marriott West

May 7, 2022 WBA Awards Gala Madison Marriott West