SYRACUSE -- Every year, only 50 radio stations are selected as finalists for the National Association of Broadcasters' Crystal Radio Awards. This year, Syracuse news/talker WSYR is one of just three stations in New York State to make the list.
As explained by NAB, the Crystal Radio Awards recognize radio stations "for their outstanding year-round commitment to community service."
The other two New York stations to make the finalist list are WBLS-FM and WQHT-FM, both in New York City. In today's announcement, NAB said finalists are chosen by "a panel of judges representing broadcasting, community service organizations and public relations firms."
All of the finalists will be honored and the winners will be announced during Radio Luncheon on April 9, part of the six-day NAB Show, April 6-11 in Las Vegas. Syndicated radio host John Tesh will give the keynote address, and syndicated money management expert Dave Ramsey will be inducted to the NAB Broadcasting Hall of Fame.
Within the CNYRadio.com coverage area, Tesh is carried in Utica by Galaxy's Mix 102.5 (WUMX) and in Ithaca by Saga's Lite Rock 97.3 (WYXL) weeknights from 7pm to midnight. Ramsey's weekday afternoon talk show isn't carried by any stations in the region.
CNYRadio.com contacted WSYR program director Aaron Trimmer and operations manager Rich Lauber for comment on being selected as a finalist for the Crystal Radio Awards, but neither responded to our request. (If we hear from either or both, we'll update the story accordingly.)