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101.9 The Mix Volunteers for Chicago River Day

Date Posted: 8/26/2024

At the 32nd annual Chicago River Day, staff and listeners from Hubbard Radio’s 101.9 The Mix in Chicago pitched in to remove garbage and invasive plant material, helping to restore wildlife and keep the Chicago River pristine. Vice President of Brand and Content Jimmy Steal said, “We’re happy to be a part of this important initiative where the power of local radio, coupled with our amazing staff and listeners, come together to help make a difference in our community!”

Chicago Morning Show Raises More than $100,000 for Veterans

Date Posted: 5/10/2024

The “Give a Vet a Pet” campaign from morning show hosts Sherman & Tingle at Hubbard Radio’s The Drive 97.1 in Chicago raised $107,272 during its seventh year, enough pair seven service dogs with veterans suffering from PTSD. “Year after year, we’re just amazed at the generosity of our Drive listeners,” Sherman & Tingle said. “Their support of this important cause has such a positive impact on the lives of Chicago-area veterans who benefit tremendously from living and working with these service dogs.”

Chicago Station Collects Thousands of Valentines for Kids in Hospital

Date Posted: 2/13/2024

Hubbard Radio’s The New 100.3 in Chicago collected and delivered thousands of handmade Valentine’s Day Cards for La Rabida Children’s Hospital during the 8th annual Valentine’s Day Cards for Kids campaign. Over the past eight years, The New 100.3 and its listeners have hand-crafted and donated over 85,000 cards. “Our patients love receiving these cards. Knowing that so many people from so many places are thinking about them and sending them love has a real impact on every patient’s healing journey. It’s so touching to know that many people in and around Chicago support La Rabida’s mission,” said Kelly Guglielmi, interim CEO, La Rabida Children’s Hospital.

Chicago Stations Raise $861,000 for Lurie Children’s Hospital

Date Posted: 1/10/2024

The Lurie Children’s Radiothon from iHeartMedia Chicago raised more than $861,000 in proceeds for patients and families at the Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago. The radiothon was broadcast live on 93.9 LITE FM, ROCK 95 FIVE, 107.5 WGCI, 103.5 KISS FM, V103 and Inspiration 1390. “Since 2020, iHeartMedia Chicago, the Chicagoland community and advertising partners have raised over $2.6 million dollars for the ‘Lurie Children’s Radiothon’,” said Matt Scarano, President of iHeartMedia Chicago. “We have made a long-term commitment to support Lurie Children’s patients, parents and families in our local community through this annual radiothon.”

Operation: Santa Paws Raises $19,000 for Pets

Date Posted: 12/18/2023

The seventh annual "Operation: Santa Paws" from Hubbard Radio’s 97.1FM The Drive morning show hosts Sherman & Tingle raised over $19,000 in pet food, supplies and cash for Chicago’s Anti-Cruelty Society. “It is an honor to be part of helping to provide care and support for the less fortunate pets in the Chicago area. It’s so rewarding getting a chance to see so many generous Classic Rock fans who are also pet lovers. To see such support for this makes us even more committed to the people and pets in need this Holiday Season and all year long," The Sherman & Tingle Show said.

Chicago’s WGN-TV Collects Thousands of Toys for Chicago Kids

Date Posted: 12/18/2023

The 21st annual WGN Morning News Drive-Thru Toy Drive in Chicago invited viewers to drive up and drop off toys at WGN-TV studios as well as Jewel-Osco locations. WGN-TV Family Charities, a McCormick Foundation fund, will match at 50 cents on the dollar. The drive is continuing to collect funds through the end of the year and has already collected thousands of toys.

Illinois Stations Raise $77,000 for United Way

Date Posted: 11/21/2022

Three Neuhoff Media radio stations in Danville, Ill., D102, K-ROCK and 1450 WDAN, raised $77,000 for the local United Way with a radiothon. The group exceeded their $75,000 goal. “The community has definitely come alive and come together,” said a United Way spokesperson at the event.

Neuhoff Media Supports Central Illinois Families

Date Posted: 5/4/2022

Neuhoff Media partnered with Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Illinois (RMHCCI) for its 3rd Annual All-In Donation Day on Tuesday, March 29. They raised $72,288 in 24 hours, surpassing their goal of $50,000 and fulfilling the charity’s wish list of household items that are used daily to make the Springfield and Peoria Houses feel more like home to the families served.

Illinois Broadcasters Team Up for Ukraine Relief

Date Posted: 4/6/2022

Illinois Helps Ukraine is a joint fundraising campaign between Ukraine Institute of Modern Art and the Illinois Broadcasters Association to benefit UNICEF’s humanitarian relief efforts in Ukraine.

Starting Monday, April 4, television stations and radio stations across the state are joining forces to help encourage Illinoisans to help out by donating to UNICEF. Contributions can also be made by accessing a QR code that will be displayed during public service announcements and news stories.

The goal of Illinois Helps Ukraine is to raise $1 million, with all proceeds going to UNICEF.

Cromwell Media Raises $128,000 for St. Jude

Date Posted: 3/25/2022

Cromwell Media raised more than $128,000 in its annual St. Jude Radiothon in Mattoon, Ill. Over the years, WMCI in Mattoon has raised more than $1.5 million for St. Jude.

WGN9 Chicago Covers Rally for Ukraine

Date Posted: 2/28/2022

When citizens gather in protest or demonstration, local broadcasters are on the scene to report. Nexstar Media-owned WGN9 Chicago covered one rally attended by state and local political leaders in the city’s Ukrainian village, amplifying statements made by Mayor Lori Lightfoot, Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker and Reps. Mike Quigley (IL-5) and Danny Davis (IL-7).

NBC5 Creates Positive Change Through Project Innovation

Date Posted: 2/17/2022

NBC5 Chicago is working to creative positive change in the community with Project Innovation, an initiative launched by the Comcast NBCUniversal Foundation in partnership with NBC and Telemundo stations in 11 markets. Project Innovation aims to strengthen communities by providing funding to local nonprofit organizations that are solving everyday problems. In 2022, NBC5 will award $315,000 to exceptional nonprofit programs that are addressing local community issues in an innovative way.

From February 18 to March 25, 2022, the station will accept applications for Project Innovation grants in four categories: Culture of Inclusion Youth Education and Empowerment, Next Generation Storytellers and Community Engagement.

Dr. Murphy Answers Viewer COVID-19 Questions on WGN-TV in Chicago

Date Posted: 12/10/2021

WGN-TV continues its commitment to keeping viewers informed during the pandemic with a regular segment with Dr. Robert Murphy, professor of infectious disease at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine and executive director for The Institute for Global Health. Each week, Dr. Murphy answers viewer questions about COVID-19, helping arm viewers with the information they need to stay safe and healthy.

WSOY Food Drive Raised Over 8 Million Pounds of Food

Date Posted: 10/8/2021

On October 8, 2021 WSOY held their 20th Annual Community Food Drive, which raised $1,546,426 for the Central Illinois Food Bank. Thanks to the food bank’s purchasing power that equates to 8,134,201 pounds of food, which will help to feed families and individuals struggling with food insecurity over the next year. This year’s event more than doubled the donations from 2020, which raised the cash equivalent of 3.2 million pounds of food.

Read the full story from Neuhoff Media.

WSCR Chicago Supports Food Mart Project

Date Posted: 8/23/2021

Audacy’s WSCR-AM Chicago, Ill., held a 24-hour “What About Chicago?” radiothon starting June 23 to raise awareness and money for Athletes for Justice’s Austin Harvest food mart project. Austin Harvest was originally a pop-up food mart that was a converted liquor store, addressing a food desert in Chicago and staffed as an after-school program three days a week by local kids. The radiothon raised $650,000 to help build a permanent facility open to the community every day and employ more kids from the neighborhood.

ABC Owned Stations Raise Awareness of Mental Health Challenges

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Date Posted: 8/23/2021

Throughout May, the eight ABC-owned stations in New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Philadelphia, San Francisco, Houston, Raleigh-Durham and Fresno aired special mental health-related programming, held town halls and spotlighted community resources to raise awareness of mental health. The stations also participated in the first “Mental Health Action Day” on May 20. The initiative kicked off on WTVD-TV Raleigh-Durham on May 6 with the half-hour special “Eyewitness News Investigates: The Silent Struggle,” which explored how the pandemic, loss, loneliness and racial trauma has led to more people experiencing mental health crises. Other content included a virtual town hall on May 13, “Our Chicago: Voices of the Community,” presented by WLS-TV Chicago that explored mental health issues in children and adolescents, and a virtual town hall on May 20, “Minding Your Mental Health,” presented by WPVI-TV Philadelphia that discussed general mental health awareness, the impact of the pandemic on children and increased suicide rates.

Rockford Station Honored For Investigative Journalism

Date Posted: 5/6/2021

Quincy Media’s NBC/CW affiliate WREX was awarded a 2021 Edward R. Murrow Award for reporting on accusations of systemic abuse of power, police misconduct and excessive force at a local police department, particularly involving complaints against specific officers and the lack of discipline even after complaints and lawsuits. The Edward R. Murrow Awards are announced each year by the Radio Television Digital News Association (RTDNA) for outstanding achievements in electronic journalism.

WLS-TV Chicago Highlights Black History Month

Date Posted: 2/15/2021

ABC-owned WLS-TV Chicago, Ill., is celebrating Black History Month with special news, programming and vignettes, and newly named Race and Culture Reporter Will Jones is contributing to news reports and a half-hour special, "Our Chicago: Black Voices of Change." Jones’ reports for ABC 7 Eyewitness News will cover hidden or overlooked stories in the Black community and other news reports will shine a light on race and equity as it relates to disparities in health, business opportunities, education and justice. Additionally, a series of vignettes will discuss the impact of COVID-19, the Black Lives Matter movement and the South Shore Drill team.

Eight ABC-owned television stations and 32 connected TV apps will feature dedicated Black History Month content for viewers in New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Philadelphia, San Francisco, Houston, Raleigh-Durham and Fresno.

WLS-TV Highlights Stories From Black Chicagoans

Date Posted: 12/13/2020

ABC’s owned-and-operated WLS-TV Chicago highlights the lives and stories of Black Chicago residents with a new half-hour special, "Our Chicago: Living While Black," on December 13.

The half-hour special features two storylines, the first, an intimate portrait of one South Shore family who opens up about "life in their neighborhood", the violence that surrounds them and how they beat the odds. The second, an eye-opening look at Black women’s maternal health and maternity deserts on the South Side as expectant mothers, new mothers, and OBGYN doctors give accounts of the obstacles they face.

WGEM-FM Provides Community Support

Date Posted: 7/8/2020

Quincy Media’s WGEM-FM Quincy, Ill., provided important news coverage and community support in recent months. The broadcasts included stories of how community members are making masks for essential workers and donating food surplus to help neighbors. WGEM also provided important weather updates and recognized graduating seniors. Read more here.

WREX Supports Community

Date Posted: 7/1/2020

Quincy’s NBC affiliate WREX Rockford, Ill., supported the community in many ways in recent months. WREX provided critical updates on the COVID-19 pandemic, aired poignant conversations on the protests surrounding racial equality, and hosted a Community Listening session. Read details here.

Milner Media Serves the Kankakee River Valley

Date Posted: 6/28/2020

Milner Media Partners’ WYUR-FM, WVLI-FM, WIVR-FM, WFAV-FM Bourbannis, Ill. was nominated for a 2020 Service to Community Award in the Radio - Small Market category. After receiving a letter from a longtime American Legion employee, Milner Media decided to do their part in saving a piece of local history. Since 1934, Bradley American Legion Post 766 has been considered a haven for veterans to recover, relax and congregate as a community. However, the building was in desperate need of repair. With a call to the local community, Milner Media and its partners solicited donations from local organizations, held benefit concerts and facilitated a raffle to raise the funds for this restoration project. With the help of the local community and partners, the Bradley American Legion can continue to provide a safe retreat for local veterans, giving them a place to call their own.

WGN Explores ’The COVID-19 Divide’ With Special Report

Date Posted: 6/6/2020

Nexstar Broadcasting’s WGN-TV Chicago aired "WGN News Special Report: The COVID-19 Divide" on May 21 to explore the racial divide in the impact of COVID-19. Hosted by anchors Micah Materre and Lourdes Duarte, the special featured community leaders, medical professionals and state officials, including Illinois Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton.

Guests discussed the wealth, health and death gaps that lead to higher numbers of COVID-19 in Chicago’s black and Latinx populations. Chicago community activists Father Michael Pfleger from Saint Sabina Church and Dr. Carol Adams, president of Urban Prescriptives, also provided insights into the impact of COVID-19 on minority communities. Watch the special here.

WGN and Nexstar Host Statewide Town Hall With U.S. Senators

Date Posted: 5/28/2020

Nexstar Broadcasting’s WGN-TV Chicago hosted a COVID-19 response town hall on May 28 with U.S. Senators Dick Durbin and Tammy Duckworth along with mayors from across the state. The town hall was simulcast on on eight stations throughout Illinois, reaching all 102 counties.

“Illinois residents interested in hearing about the impact of the pandemic and who want to express their concerns and ask questions regarding the re-opening of the state’s economy can rely on Nexstar’s dedication to local content to provide them the latest news and a connection to their government and community leaders,” said Tim Busch, president of Nexstar Broadcasting.

WKQX-FM Raises $34,000 to ’Save the Stages’

Date Posted: 5/25/2020

Cumulus Media’s WKQX-FM Chicago hosted a 34-hour radiothon to help "Save The Stages" across the city on May 23. The raised money benefits the Chicago Independent Venue League.

Illinois Broadcasters Rallying To Support Food Banks

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Date Posted: 5/7/2020

TV and radio stations throughout Illinois are uniting in a statewide fundraising drive to combat hunger and food bank shortages in the wake of the COVID-19 Pandemic. Illinois broadcasters, in partnership with Feeding Illinois and the Illinois Broadcasters Association, are encouraging listeners and viewers to contribute monetary donations to support area food banks, which are seeing increased need due to the COVID-19 pandemic. As of May 7, the drive netted nearly $1.5 million and counting!

“During this challenging time, the eight food banks that serve Illinois are working to ensure that nobody in our great state goes hungry,” said Steve Ericson, executive director for Feeding Illinois. “The need for food assistance is already growing due to the COVID-19 pandemic and its economic effects. Thanks to the Illinois Broadcasters Association for using their collective voice to drive support for food banks across the state.”

WREX Supports Community

Date Posted: 4/30/2020

Quincy’s NBC affiliate WREX Rockford, Ill., supported the community in many ways early in 2020. WREX provided critical updates on the COVID-19 pandemic, aired a weekly “Reading with WREX” segment, honored a “Teacher of the Week” and more. Read details here.

Neuhoff Media Connects Teachers and Students

Date Posted: 4/9/2020

Neuhoff Media announced on April 9 an initiative designed to connect Central Illinois students, teachers and parents, as schools are closed due to the COVID-19 crisis. The Louise Neuhoff Educational Access Project will provide educators daily access to local radio stations. Specific time periods each day will be available for teachers to present lessons and read books on air. For example, WDNL-FM Danville, Ill., will air a 30-minute daily program, “Radio Teaching Time,” featuring lessons focused on reading, music and art.

“We have the ability for teachers to talk directly to students each day regardless of technology,” said Neuhoff Communications President/CEO Beth Neuhoff. “We wanted to find some small way to help bridge the gap between teachers and primary students. We are simply providing local educational leadership the opportunity to use our most popular radio stations to connect with students and their parents.”

WCIU Supports Local Restaurants With Broadcast Special

Date Posted: 4/6/2020

Weigel Broadcasting’s CW affiliate WCIU-TV Chicago broadcast a half-hour special on April 5 to support local businesses and highlight Chicago’s takeout food scene during the COVID-19 shutdowns. “Chicago Food To Go” featured social media videos of local comedians, radio personalities and station viewers practicing social distancing while getting takeout and delivery. Local restaurants also used the time to highlight their best and most popular menu items.

Local News Programs Adapt to Social Distancing Rules

Date Posted: 3/25/2020

Journalists and local news stations are altering their routines to abide by social distancing rules and shelter-in-place orders to help halt the spread of the coronavirus, sometimes filming segments in makeshift studios -- often in their own homes. While reporting from home poses challenges, local stations are able to keep viewers informed and calm during uncertain times.

“The most amazing thing is the viewer response,” said Joey Miller, weather producer at NBC’s WMAQ-TV Chicago. “People talking about how refreshing it is to see someone, that calming voice being there, when we’re in what feels like dire times or a weird situation that none of us have really experienced before.”

WMCI-FM Collects Blood for Red Cross

Date Posted: 3/19/2020

The Cromwell Group’s WMCI-FM Mattoon, Ill., collected 51 units of blood in a drive held March 19. They far surpassed the goal of 30 units and have not collected that much blood since 2008.

WRMJ-FM’s App Offers Local News

Date Posted: 1/30/2020

Western Illinois Broadcasting’s WRMJ-FM Aledo, Ill., demonstrated its commitment to deliver local news and programming content by launching a station app in mid-January. The small-market station has broadcast local news, high school sports and weather to the community for 40 years.

The WRMJ app allows the station to evolve, while maintaining its local focus. The app will provide its audience with a unique way to hear familiar voices, access local news and listen to music wherever they are.

"You have to change with the time, even in a small market like ours,” said General Manager John Hoscheidt. “But we give them local flavor.”

WREX Digs Into the Effect Of ‘Delinquent’ Property Taxes on the Community

Date Posted: 1/24/2020

Quincy Media’s NBC/CW affiliate WREX-TV Rockford, Ill., aired on November 12 – 14 “Delinquent,” a three-part investigative series focusing on the effect of mounting local property taxes. The series dug into the burden of property taxes on homeowners in Winnebago County, which maintains one of highest property tax rates in the country. Each part focused on a different issue, such as the cost of unpaid property tax, how businesses are fighting for lowered rates and the impact of tax incentives on the community.

The station continued the discussion on November 18 with a town hall featuring members of the community, city officials and area business and economic development leaders. Evening news anchors Kristin Crowley and James Stratton moderated the panel discussion.

Quincy’s WREX Hosts Holiday Donation Drives

Date Posted: 1/22/2020

Quincy Media’s NBC/CW affiliate WREX-TV Rockford, Ill., hosted multiple donation drives throughout the 2019 holiday season to support neighbors in the community. During the annual “12 Hours of Salvation” toy drive on December 6, the station partnered with the Salvation Army to collect 6,000 new and unwrapped toys for kids in the community.

WREX-TV also hosted on November 6 the sixth annual Freeport Food Drive, collecting over $3,000 worth of food donations during the 14-hour live broadcast.

Hubbard’s WTMX-FM Raises $119,000 for Hospital

Date Posted: 1/22/2020

Hubbard’s WTMX-FM Chicago raised $119,140 during “Holiday Hugs for Kids,” a month-long fundraising campaign for Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital held November 30 - December 20.

“It’s great to see the impact radio can make locally to assist a world-class facility like Lurie Children’s Hospital through our Mix Kids campaign,” said Director of Marketing Dave Karwowski.

WDRV Raises Over $26,000 for Pets

Date Posted: 1/3/2020

Hubbard-owned WDRV-FM Chicago personalities Sherman & Tingle welcomed pet lovers to the fourth annual “Operation: Santa Paws” event December 14 where they collected over $26,000 in pet food, supplies, and cash. The event included a full week of online donations and culminated in an all-day live broadcast.

Nexstar’s WGN-TV Collects Tons of Food

Date Posted: 12/5/2019

Nexstar-owned WGN-TV Chicago collected 25,000 pounds of food (21,000 meals) to the Greater Chicago Food Depository in its sixth annual food drive, held November 22. Last year, the Food Depository distributed nearly 70 million pounds of shelf-stable food, fresh produce, dairy products and meat every day - the equivalent of 159,000 meals.

NBC and Telemundo Chicago Address Consumer Complaints

Date Posted: 9/30/2019

NBC-owned WMAQ-TV and Telemundo Chicago’s Consumer Investigative Reporters Lisa Parker and Zully Ramírez from “NBC 5 Responds” and “Telemundo Chicago Responde” covered consumer issues during the afternoon and evening newscasts from September 9 - 12. Parker addressed issues with car defects, appliances, banking, contractors, home warranties, internet scams, parking tickets and wireless service. Ramírez discussed used cars, contractors, warranties, shipping delays and contract breaches.

The week culminated with a live on air and digital chat on September 13 from 4:00 – 6:30 p.m. A panel of local experts answered viewer questions submitted via the stations’ websites and mobile apps. Participating groups included the Better Business Bureau, Business Affairs and Consumer Protection, Citizens Utility Board, Federal Trade Commission, and Office of the Illinois Attorney General.

Illinois Radio Supports St. Jude

Date Posted: 8/22/2019

Cromwell Radio Group’s WMCI-FM, WWGO-FM and WCBH-FM, serving central Illinois and western Indiana, recently raised $300,00 for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. On August 2 - 3, 115 runners and volunteers participated in a 148-mile relay run as part of the “Mattoon to Peoria St. Jude Run.” The run raised over $188,000 and a concurrent radiothon brought the total donated to over $300,000. In nine years, they have raised over $1.1 million.

WBEZ-FM Studies Gambling Addiction

Date Posted: 3/1/2019

Chicago Public Media’s WBEZ-FM Chicago aired an investigation on Illinois’ failure to study the impact of legalized gambling on addiction. WBEZ found that the state spends less on addiction services now than before legalizing video gambling 10 years ago, raising concerns about the growing sports betting industry.

WBWN-FM Supports St. Jude

Date Posted: 2/22/2019

Cumulus Media’s WBWN-FM, WJBC-AM, and WBNQ-FM Bloomington, Ill., raised $103,000 for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital during the 11th annual “Country Cares for St. Jude” radiothon on February 14 – 15. “This is a tremendous accomplishment for our community and our stations to beat last year’s figure by more than $7,000. Our community looks forward to this event every year,” said Program Director Dan Westhoff.

WGN Airs ’Sold for Sex’ Special

Date Posted: 2/6/2019

Tribune-owned WGN Chicago aired “Sold for Sex: A WGN News Special” on January 25 to show how sex trafficking affects people of all races, religions and neighborhoods. WGN shared stories of teens who were offered shelter while they were living on the streets, only to find that their “protectors” were sex traffickers. One survivor had been sexually abused since the age of three. She ran away at 12 and into the house of a trafficker.

WGN also showed how the opioid epidemic and sex trafficking overlap through the story of a mother who repeatedly chose crack cocaine over her daughter. During the special, a Cook County Sheriff shared the locations most recently discovered to harbor sex trafficking and how law enforcement’s focus has changed.

WGN Chicago Airs Mayoral Forum

Date Posted: 2/5/2019

Tribune-owned WGN-TV Chicago aired a forum featuring Chicago mayoral candidates on January 10. The live hour and a half long prime time event was open to all fifteen candidates. Twelve attended the whole event, one participated in the second half, and two did not participate. WGN made videos available after the event to show where candidates stand on topics including education, crime and budgets.

WPBG-FM Raises $246,000 for Illinois Children’s Hospital

Date Posted: 12/19/2018

Alpha Media’s WPBG-FM Peoria, Ill., raised $246,450 during the “Drive for Miracles” held December 6 -7 for the OSF HealthCare Children’s Hospital of Illinois. In 18 years, WPBG has raised more than $4 million dollars for the full-service hospital that treats all children, regardless of their ability to pay.

“This has become a true labor of love for all of us,” said Market Manager Mike Wild. “It’s a genuine passion that is wonderfully supported by our generous listeners and an outstanding philanthropic community!”

WTMX-FM Awarded 2018 NAB Crystal Radio Award

Date Posted: 11/1/2018

WTMX-FM Chicago, Ill. was awarded the 2018 National Association of Broadcasters’ (NAB) Crystal Radio Award. Since 1987, the NAB Crystal Radio Awards have recognized radio stations for their outstanding year-round commitment to community service. Among their outstanding public service, WMTX-FM stepped up to the plate to help victims through the American Red Cross of the many natural disasters around the country in 2017.

WSOY-AM Awarded 2018 NAB Crystal Radio Award

Date Posted: 11/1/2018

WSOY-AM Decatur, Ill. was awarded the 2018 National Association of Broadcasters’ (NAB) Crystal Radio Award. Since 1987, the NAB Crystal Radio Awards have recognized radio stations for their outstanding year-round commitment to community service. WSOY-AM has only five employees and put in a total of 1,008 hours of volunteer time in 2017.

WTMX-FM Chicago Raises $1 Million for Children’s Hospital

Date Posted: 9/30/2018

Hubbard’s WTMX-FM Chicago, Ill., raised $1 million during its 19th annual radiothon for the Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital. During the week of August 20, on air personalities Eric Ferguson, Melissa McGurren and Whip hosted the five-day “MIX Kids for Lurie Children’s,” which culminated with a live broadcast and check presentation in a garden on the 11th floor of the hospital.

WGN Holds Free Back-To-School Kids Fair

Date Posted: 9/4/2018

Tribune-owned WGN-TV Chicago, Ill., hosted its 17th annual “WGN-TV Back-to-School Kids Fair” on August 17 at their studios. The free event included health screenings and safety tips, plus fun activities such as live music, face painting, a petting zoo, mascots, inflatable bouncers and a dunk tank.

WREX-TV Rockford, Ill. Wins Murrow Award

Date Posted: 8/1/2018

Quincy’s NBC affiliate WREX-TV Rockford, Ill. won a Murrow Award in the “Overall Excellence” category for Small Market Television. The award recognized a variety of initiatives undertaken throughout the year, including outstanding coverage of Hurricane Harvey and the Heartland Church shooting. WREX-TV also made a difference in the community by promoting organ donations and highlighting a program that helped special needs students find dresses for prom.

Springfield, Ill., Radio Raises $182,000 for St. Jude

Date Posted: 3/1/2018

Neuhoff Media’s WXAJ-FM, WFMB-FM, and WDZQ-FM Springfield, Ill., raised $182,000 in the “St. Jude Cares for Kids Radiothon,” held February 15 - 16. Neuhoff Media has raised approximately $2 million for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in the last 30 years. Host John Spalding has participated every year.

WCIU-TV Celebrates Black History Month

Date Posted: 2/28/2018

Weigel Broadcasting-owned WCIU-TV Chicago collaborated with Chicago hip-hop artist Che “Rhymefest” Smith to honor Black History Month with a special broadcast, “Black History: The Movement.” The half-hour special focuses on the conversation of being Black in America and will premiere on February 4. A series of in-depth interviews between Che and leaders from Ghanaian, Mexican, Haitian and local black communities will spotlight the individual struggle for independence in each of their native lands, and their correlations to the continued fight for freedom as an American.

“We’re taking a non-traditional approach to celebrating Black History Month this year, showcasing the different walks of life and perspectives of the community,” said Steve Bailey, WCIU-TV’s head of local programming and creative. “Our goal is to create a forum where we can all learn, understand and move forward as one.”

WMAQ-WSNS Host Democratic Gubernatorial Forum

Date Posted: 1/31/2018

NBC-owned WMAQ-TV and Telemundo-owned WSNS-TV Chicago partnered with the Union League Club of Chicago and the Chicago Urban League to host the first televised 2018 Illinois Democratic Gubernatorial Forum on January 23. Both stations aired and streamed the hour-long forum live, with WSNS also providing Spanish-language captioning. “Our main priority is to keep our Spanish-speaking viewers informed about news that affects their lives,” said WSNS Vice President of News Diana Maldonado. “The broadcast of this gubernatorial forum is certainly part of our commitment to the community we serve.”

WAND-TV Adds Two Weekend Newscasts

Date Posted: 1/31/2018

Block Communication’s NBC affiliate WAND-TV Decatur, Ill., is adding two weekend newscasts, known as “Weekend Daybreak,” that will air on Saturday and Sunday mornings. Premiering on February 10, Caryn Eisert and Meredith Juliet will co-anchor the hour-long shows. “Viewers want news and weather all the time and by bringing news to weekend mornings, we are providing them what they are looking for,” said Ricky Joseph, WAND-TV president and general manager.

WUSN-FM Raises $723,000 for St. Jude

Date Posted: 12/21/2017

Entercom Communications Corp.’s WUSN-FM Chicago partnered with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital to host a “Country Cares for St. Jude Kids” two-day radiothon. The event raised $723,106 for treatment and elimination of childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases at St. Jude.

WGN-TV Collects 37,000 Toys for Charity

Date Posted: 12/8/2017

Tribune Broadcasting Company’s WGN-TV Chicago held their 15th annual “Drive-Thru Toy Drive” on December 8. For the first time, WGN-TV partnered with Chance The Rapper’s youth empowerment charity, SocialWorks. The five-hour fundraising campaign collected a record 37,000 toys for children and families throughout Chicago.

WPBG-FM Raises $182,000 for Children’s Hospital of Illinois

Date Posted: 12/8/2017

Alpha Media’s WPBG-FM Peoria, Ill., raised $182,000 in its “Drive for Miracles” radiothon, held December 7 – 8. Morning show personalities Riley and Nancy Flagg broadcast live from the hospital. In 16 years, the event has raised nearly $4 million for the Children’s Hospital of Illinois in Peoria, which serves children regardless of their ability to pay. “Several of our team members have personal experience with the Children’s Hospital of Illinois, so this is a genuine passion for all of us,” said Market Manager Mike Wild.

WSOY-AM Collects 1.5 Million Pounds of Food

Date Posted: 10/6/2017

Neuhoff Communications’ WSOY-AM Decatur, Ill. collected more than 1.5 million pounds of food during the “Community Food Drive,” held October 6. The food will be distributed to those in need through the Salvation Army, Catholic Charities and other organizations. Area schools also participated in the drive.

WEEK-TV Raises $10 Million for St. Jude

Date Posted: 9/28/2017

Quincy Media’s NBC affiliate WEEK-TV Peoria, Ill. raised $10 million in its annual telethon for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, held August 5. The station has raised more than $118 million in 40 years.

WZSR-FM Provides Accessible Van

Date Posted: 8/25/2017

Mayber, who has a spinal cord injury, on August 25 at a “Sock Hop” dance event hosted by the station. The van was the top item on her wish list, followed by her desire to attend a sock hop. The family couldn’t afford the van on top of medical expenses, but the wheelchair accessible van became a priority after Melissa’s mom suffered a heart attack trying to lift Melissa into a vehicle for her doctor’s visit. WZSR-FM on-air personalities regularly promoted their fundraising efforts for the van in the months leading up to the sock hop. Seeing the joy on Melissa’s face, News Director Stew Cohen said, “I realized in that very moment why WZSR-STAR cherishes its public service work in the community.”

WTMX-FM’s Eric and Kathy Raise $1 Million for Children’s Hospital

Date Posted: 8/14/2017

Hubbard’s WTMX-FM Chicago raised $1 million for the Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago during its 18th annual fundraising event, held during the week of August 14. WTMX wrapped up the five-day fundraiser with a live broadcast and check presentation at Lurie Children’s.

WGCI-FM Aims for “Peace in the Streets” in Chicago

Date Posted: 6/11/2017

iHeartMedia’s WGCI-FM Chicago is organizing several “Peace in the Streets” Summer Block Parties in light of recent shootings. The block parties, hosted by the “Chicago Morning Takeover” team, showcases the importance of maintaining peaceful communities and features WGCI live broadcasts, food, music, games, prizes and community resources.

WMAQ Chicago Airs Series on Dementia

Date Posted: 2/13/2017

NBC owned-and-operated WMAQ-TV Chicago aired this in-depth report on dementia, featuring sports anchor and former football player Mike Adamle. Adamle has been off the air for a year due to dementia, which was caused in part by football injuries.

WGN Gives Away More Than 15,000 Toys

Date Posted: 12/28/2016

Tribune’s CW affiliate WGN-TV Chicago collected 15,000 toys during its 14th annual “The WGN Morning News Drive-Thru Toy Drive” on December 22. The five-hour event featured holiday entertainment, Santa Clause and an appearance by Jennifer and Julia Hudson.

WPBG-FM Drive Nets $633,000 for Hospital

Date Posted: 12/9/2016

Alpha Media’s WPBG-FM Peoria, Ill. collected $633,000 in its 16th Annual Drive for Miracles radiothon, held December 8 – 9 for the Children’s Hospital of Illinois. “We have been doing this for 16 years and every year I am amazed and humbled at the generosity of the community. Radio gives us the ability to reach so many like-minded people who get behind an important cause and make a difference. It’s very rewarding,” said morning show host John Riley.

Chicago Radio Stations Go Wall-to-Wall with Rahm Town Hall

Date Posted: 11/14/2016

The Illinois Broadcasters Association and Radio Broadcasters of Chicagoland spearheaded a 30-minute commercial-free “roadblock” for more than 40 radio stations to air “Chicago Radio Town Hall Meeting” featuring Mayor Rahm Emmanuel. Listeners submitted questions in advance online and via social media with the hashtag #ChicagoRadio. The program was the result of a year’s worth of planning. “I recently asked the leaders of Chicago-area radio stations to utilize their powerful platforms and tremendous reach to motivate Chicagoans to take a more active role in making our city stronger,” Emanuel said. “They answered the call with this unique broadcast opportunity.”

“Radio stations have a unique ability to create a meaningful conversation because of the intimate relationship the medium has with its audience,” said Univsion Chicago General Manager Doug Levy. “I am proud that we are leading the dialogue about how to solve some of our biggest problems and take full advantage of some of our greatest strengths.”

Dennis Lyle, president and CEO of the IBA, said in a statement: “The fact the most popular radio stations in Chicago are willing to set aside regular programming and commercial inventory to air this 30-minute conversation with the mayor is a prime example of local broadcasters doing what they do best — serving the needs of their listeners within their communities of license.”

WSOY Decatur Collects 1.5 Million Pounds of Food

Date Posted: 10/11/2016

Neuhoff Communication’s WSOY-AM/FM Decatur, Ill. raised 1.4 million pounds of food in the station’s 15th Annual Food Drive, held October 11. The food benefits 10 local pantries. The station topped last year’s collection of 1.2 million pounds. In 15 years, over 7.5 million pounds of food has been collected. “For WSOY to be able to do what they do in a community the size of Decatur showcases the power of radio’s connection, the essence of human compassion and the spirit of a place that care for its own,” said Neuhoff Communications CEO Beth Neuhoff.

WTMX-FM’s Eric & Kathy Raise Almost $1 Million

Date Posted: 10/3/2016

Hubbard’s WTMX-FM Chicago raised $986,673 in the 17th annual “Eric and Kathy Radiothon” for Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital, held September 12 - 16. The “Eric & Kathy Morning Show” broadcast live from Lurie Children’s on September 16. The event has raised over $25 million in total.

Local Radio Raises $260,000 to Fight Childhood Cancer

Date Posted: 7/7/2016

The Cromwell Group’s WMCI-FM, WCBH-FM and WWGO-FM Mattoon, Ill. raised $260,000 for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. The stations raised $135,000 in a walk from Mattoon to Peoria and $125,000 in a radiothon. “Our WMCI-FM, WCBH-FM, and WWGO-FM make a difference every day as do broadcasters across the country,” said Cromwell Group President Bud Walters. “We can all be proud.” Watch video.

Children’s Hospital of Illinois Recognizes 93.3 The Drive’s John Riley

Date Posted: 6/1/2016

Alpha Media’s WPBG-FM Peoria, Ill. morning host John Riley received the Bill Houlihan Professional Award from Children’s Hospital of Illinois. Every year Children’s Hospital of Illinois recognizes advocates throughout Central Illinois who are making a difference in the lives of children. The Bill Houlihan Professional Award recognizes a professional who advocates for children through their work, going beyond the daily expectations. John has hosted and coordinated the “Drive for Miracles” Radiothon for the past 15 years, raising well over $3 million for Children’s Hospital of Illinois. Alpha Media SVP/Market Manager, Mike Wild commented on the announcement, “John’s family has experienced the amazing work of Children’s Hospital first hand, making him the perfect advocate. He has a wonderful passion and is dedicated to helping families that are going through difficult times.” "How we care for our children is one of the most telling aspects of any community...and thanks to Children’s Hospital of Illinois, our children have the best. We are proud of our efforts with the Radiothon, and to be in the same company of others who have been nominated or received this award is truly humbling," remarked John.

WFLD-TV Chicago Simulcast Show on Opioids

Date Posted: 5/16/2016

Fox-owned WFLD-TV Chicago simulcast “Rockin’ Recovery" on-air and online on May 16 as part of the station’s ongoing investigative reporting on Chicago’s growing heroin and opioid epidemic. “Rockin’ Recovery" airs every Monday on Harvard Community Radio’s WHIW-LP Harvard, Ill. Show hosts Mike Young and Jason Beaty are recovering heroin addicts who now work for A Man In Recovery Foundation. They were also featured in a December story on the growing number of overdose deaths in Chicago. “We are grateful to be able to give voice to the issue and an important resource to listeners everywhere," said WHIW President Sarah Flashing.

WNGY Anchor Acknowledged by White House

Date Posted: 5/12/2016

Alpha Media’s WNGY Peoria’s Lucky The DJ ran 102 miles in 102 hours to generate awareness for child abuse. On the fourth day of his run, the station received an email from the White House thanking them for their efforts. On the last day of the race, listeners were encouraged to bring a donation to the “Paint Peoria Blue” party. With any donation of a basic-needs supply, the listener was given a free Chik-fil-A chicken sandwich meal. All donations benefitted local crisis nursery centers. In the end, over $1,200 worth of items such as diapers, wipes, formula, clothes and supplies. The drive assisted over 100 families.

Cromwell Radio Earns 2016 Special Olympics Illinois Outstanding Media Group Award

Date Posted: 5/2/2016

Cromwell Radio’s WMCI-FM, WWGO-FM and KZTP-FM Mattoon, Ill. will receive the “2016 Special Olympics Illinois Statewide Outstanding Media Sponsor” on June 10. The award recognizes an individual or organization that communicates the achievements of Special Olympics athletes, coaches and volunteers through news features and social media, in addition to raising money. Cromwell Radio Group has supported the Special Olympics for more than a decade. On-air personalities act as emcee and master of ceremonies for the Special Olympics Family Festival and Polar Plunge. KZTP’s Polar Plunge team raised $5,000 this year. Cromwell Radio airs countless PSAs about Special Olympics Area 9 competitions, in addition to providing remote broadcasting support, radio marketing, and a call to action for events that benefit the organization. Undoubtedly, the Cromwell Radio Group of Mattoon deserves the recognition of Outstanding Media Support for Special Olympics Illinois and much more, as it truly is a comp\any that cares about its community,” said Jessica Duncan of Special Olympics Illinois.

Univision Breaks Ground on Media Centers at Middle Schools

Date Posted: 4/29/2016

Univision Communications Inc. (UCI) broke ground on April 29 at five new Univision Media Centers at middle schools in Austin, Chicago, Miami, Los Angeles and Oakland. All five ceremonies broadcast live on Univision’s morning show “Despierta América” and marked the culmination of Yo Soy Univision Contigo (I Am Univision Contigo), the national employee week of service. At the Media Centers, Univision staff members provide students with experience in media production and editing. Univision broke ground on its first Media Center in the Bronx earlier this year.

WGN Investigates Toxic Danger on Boeing Plane

Date Posted: 4/28/2016

Tribune’s CBS affiliate WGN-TV Chicago aired “WGN Investigates The Boeing Papers: How safe is the air up there?” on April 28. Reporter Mark Suppelsa and the WNG investigative team looked into a lawsuit alleging problems with toxic jet oil on a Boeing plane. Plaintiffs say that passengers’ exposure to toxins is being caused by a decades old engineering defect in which heated jet engine oil is seeping in to cabin air causing flight attendants and some passengers to become seriously ill. Despite knowing that this health risk exists, Boeing has refused to address the issue and fix the problem.

WTMX-FM Honored for Commitment to Chicago

Date Posted: 4/13/2016

Hubbard’s WTMX-FM Chicago will receive the NAB Crystal Heritage Award, April 19 at NAB Show. Only five others have won the award, which honors stations with five Crystal Radio Awards for exceptional year-round community service. WTMX does more than host the Eric & Kathy radiothon, which has raised $27 million for the Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital in 16 years. “We do a lot of lower-profile fundraisers to help out our listeners; be it for a family who has lost a mother or father, a young cancer patient who needs support in paying for treatment, or someone else who needs financial and human assistance in our listening area,” said Market Manager John Gallagher. “WTMX’s heart and soul is truly committed to the city of Chicago.”

WLS-AM Chicago Honored Again for Best Newscast

Date Posted: 4/12/2016

Cumulus Media’s WLS-AM Chicago has won Illinois Associated Press Broadcasters Association’s Best Newscast in the Large Market category for the third consecutive year. “I credit PD/OM Peter Bolger and News Director John Dempsey and his excellent news team for their ongoing commitment to excellence in providing our community with the very best news programming that they can count on, day after day and year after year,” said Vice President and Market Manager Peter Bowen.

WNGY-FM Host Ran 102 Miles to Protect Kids

Date Posted: 4/11/2016

Alpha Media’s WNGY-FM Peoria, Ill. host Chris Stewart ran 102 miles in 102 hours to create awareness for child abuse. The run took place April 25 - 29. WNGY-FM staff distributed stickers with the child abuse blue ribbon along the course. "An event like this could only happen in such a strong community like the one we have here in Peoria," Stewart said. "We are excited to get out on the streets and spread the message that it shouldn’t hurt to be a child."

Alpha Media Nets $64,881 for St. Jude

Date Posted: 3/1/2016

Alpha Media’s WXCL-FM Peoria, Ill. raised $64,881 in its 26th annual St. Jude Radiothon, February 4-5. "I can’t say enough about the family we are, and the families we strive to help," said Alpha Media Program Director Chris Michaels. "When you think about it, they are all our family, and we have their backs."

The Cromwell Group Delivers for Flint

Date Posted: 3/1/2016

The Cromwell Group’s Decatur, Ill. radio stations – WZUS-FM, WEJT-FM, WYDS-FM, WZNX-FM and WZUS-FM – and the Macon County Sheriff’s collected approximately 178,000 bottles of water for Flint on February 5. They filled seven semi-trucks. Watch video.

Chicago Stations Host Debates

Date Posted: 3/1/2016

ABC-owned WLS-TV, Univision’s WGBO-TV Chicago and the League of Women Voters of Illinois hosted and streamed hour-long, commercial-free, prime time debates with candidates for U.S. Senate on February 19 and Cook County State’s Attorney, February 26. WGBO aired each debate two days later.

WAND Brings in $350,000 for Cerebral Palsy

Date Posted: 2/16/2016

Block Communication’s NBC affiliate WAND-TV Decatur, Ill., raised $350,000 in its 15th annual telethon on Jan. 31 for United Cerebral Palsy (UCP). UCP serves people with cerebral palsy, autism, Down Syndrome and epilepsy. Due to state budget cuts, this year’s telethon was particularly important. "This telethon helps us keep our doors open and meet payroll," said UCP President Brenda Yarnell.

WJBC-AM Raises $90,000 for St. Jude

Date Posted: 2/15/2016

Cumulus’ WJBC-AM Bloomington, Ill. raised a record $90,000 in its annual Radiothon to benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, held February 11-12. Country music sensation Luke Bryan donated $500 for every new “Partner in Hope” donor added during the event.

Peoria Stations Distribute Smoke Alarms

Date Posted: 2/1/2016

Nexstar Broadcasting’s CBS affiliate WMBD-TV and Cunningham’s Fox affiliate WYZZ Peoria, Ill. hosted a Smoke Alarm Phone-a-Thon on Jan. 9, through which viewers requested free smoke alarms to be installed in their homes. The effort is part of the national Home Fire Campaign, which aims to reduce the number of deaths and injuries from fires by 25 percent by 2019.

WPBG-FM Raises $539K for Children’s Hospital

Date Posted: 1/14/2016

Alpha Media’s WPBG-FM Peoria, Ill., raised $539,480 during the 15th annual "Drive for Miracles," December 9-10. Since 2001, WPBG has raised $1.5 million for Children’s Hospital of Illinois. "This is a true, from-the-heart commitment for a wonderful cause," said Alpha Media Market Manager Mike Wild.

WREX-TV Ignites Conversation on Bullying

Date Posted: 1/14/2016

Quincy’s NBC affiliate WREX-TV Rockford, Ill. invited a dozen students from different schools, ages and backgrounds to discuss their experiences with bullying. Many had received death threats from bullies and transferred schools. WREX also brought in child actors to stage a bullying scenario to spark further conversations among the students. One student stood up to the bully, while others expressed fear of becoming victims if they had done the same. WREX’s news segment raised awareness and included resources on bullying. (Watch video).

WSOY-AM Collects 1.3 Million Lbs. of Food

Date Posted: 1/14/2016

Neuhoff Communication’s WSOY-AM Decatur, Ill. collected 1.3 million pounds of food in the 14th annual WSOY Community Food Drive, held Oct. 9. The drive benefits Catholic Charities, the Salvation Army, Good Samaritan Inn, Northeast Community Fund, the Judy Mason Thanksgiving Basket Project and Reasonable Services. WSOY recognized five local schools for outstanding participation. (Watch video).

WTMX-FM Radiothon Nets $1.3 Million

Date Posted: 10/19/2015

Hubbard Radio Group’s WTMX-FM Chicago raised $1.3 million on September 19 during the "Eric & Kathy Radiothon" to support the Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital. During the event, on-air personalities Eric and Kathy shared touching stories about the children, parents, doctors, nurses and hospital staff. The event has raised a total of $26 million in 14 years. Click here to view videos and photos from this year’s radiothon.

WZSR-FM Takes a Stand Against Domestic Violence

Date Posted: 9/14/2015

Digity LLC’s WZSR-FM Woodstock, IL hosted the 10th annual Take a Stand for Turning Point, which benefits victims of domestic violence. During August 14 and 15, area residents had the opportunity to listen to acoustic performances from local musicians, watch an outdoor movie and participate in a family fun day.

WLS-TV Airs Chicago Mayoral Debate

Date Posted: 3/13/2015

ABC owned-and-operated WLS-TV Chicago hosted a debate between candidates for Chicago Mayor on Feb. 5. CBS owned-and-operated WBBM-TV Chicago hosted a debate between the candidates on Feb. 10. The candidates for this race include William "Dock" Walls, Rahm Emanuel, Ald. Bob Fioretti, Jesus "Chuy" Garcia and Willie Wilson. Click here to watch video from the WLS-TV debate.

WGBO Collects 430 Units of Blood

Date Posted: 2/15/2015

WGBO-DT Chicago Univision collected 430 units of blood from more than 600 people on January 21. The pints of blood will help save 61 lives.

CBS Chicago Raises Almost $800,000 for Red Cross

Date Posted: 12/4/2014

CBS Chicago‘s local television, radio and digital media platforms, including WBBM-AM and WMVP-AM, raised nearly $800,000 during their third annual Day of Giving on Nov. 25. For 13 hours, CBS hosted a live telethon/radiothon to raise money for the American Red Cross of Greater Chicago’s home fire relief efforts. Each year, the Red Cross provides food, shelter and comfort to 1,400 local families whose homes are damaged or destroyed by fires. CBS and the Red Cross also distributed free smoke alarms.

WQAD-TV, WLS-TV Air Debates, Host Candidates for Political Office

Date Posted: 11/20/2014

Tribune Broadcasting’s ABC affiliate WQAD-TV Moline, Ill., hosted a debate on Oct. 9 between incumbent U.S. Rep. Cheri Bustos and challenger Bobby Schilling. ABC owned-and-operated WLS-TV Chicago sponsored and aired a debate between candidates for Illinois Governor Pat Quinn and Bruce Rauner on Oct. 20.

WIND-AM Holds Get Out the Vote Rallies

Date Posted: 11/20/2014

Salem Communications hosted listener rallies in Dallas, Los Angeles and Chicago to encourage voters to cast their ballots. The rallies were hosted by KSKY-AM Dallas on Oct. 18; KRLA-AM Glendale, Calif. on Oct. 19 (Townhall 2014); and WIND-AM Elk Grove Village, Ill., on Oct. 24-25.

WBBM-TV Chicago Commits Air Time for Political Debates

Date Posted: 11/20/2014

CBS Television owned-and-operated stations produced and aired debates across the country:

  • KTXA Dallas, Oct. 5, Governor [Greg Abbott, Wendy Davis]; Lt. Governor [Dan Patrick, Leticia Van de Putte]

  • KYW-TV Philadelphia, Oct. 5, Governor [Tom Corbett, Tom Wolf]

  • WBZ-TV Boston, Oct. 7, Governor [Charlie Baker, Martha Coakley, Evan Falchuk, Scott Lively, Jeff McCormick]

  • WJZ-TV Baltimore, Oct. 7, Governor [Anthony Brown, Larry Hogan]

  • WBBM-TV Chicago, Oct. 14, Governor [Pat Quinn, Bruce Rauner]

  • WFOR-TV Miami, Oct. 15, Governor [Charlie Crist, Rick Scott]

  • KCNC-TV Denver, Oct. 24, Governor [John Hickenlooper, Bob Beauprez]

  • WCCO-TV Minneapolis, Oct. 26, Governor [Mark Dayton, Jeff Johnson]

  • WCCO-TV Minneapolis, Nov. 2, U.S. Senate [Al Franken, Mike McFadden]

WTMX Chicago Raises $1.4 Million for Children’s Hospital

Date Posted: 10/2/2014

Hubbard Radio Group’s WTMX-FM Chicago raised more than $1.4 million through the 15th Annual Eric & Kathy Radiothon for the Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital. Morning show hosts Eric & Kathy broadcast live from Lurie Children’s with stories of children battling critical or fatal conditions. Since 2000, The Eric and Kathy Radiothon has raised $26 million for Lurie Children’s.

Chicago Mayor Turns to Local Radio to Promote Anti-Violence

Date Posted: 6/9/2014

Fifteen Chicago radio stations from four different owners – Clear Channel, Univision, Crawford Broadcasting and Midway Broadcasting – have partnered with Mayor Rahm Emanuel and the city of Chicago to launch the "Put The Guns Down" radio initiative. The anti-violence campaign promotes safety in local communities and aims to reduce gun violence that has plagued Chicago. Stations have agreed to air PSAs featuring their on-air talent, host weekly news segments and monthly radio simulcasts to discuss the importance of community responsibility and accountability.

WZUS-FM Decatur, Ill. Wins 2014 NAB Crystal Radio Award

Date Posted: 5/14/2014

The Cromwell Group’s WZUS-FM Decatur, Ill. won a 2014 NAB Crystal Radio Award for its commitment to making good things happen every day in Central Illinois. In additional to the minutes and hours of airtime and support that WZUS-FM gave to the community in 2013, the station is most proud of the relationship its staff has formed with the people they serve. WZUS-FM has become a real friend to its community, someone listeners can count on in times of need. Whether it is the listener who wants to know if the roads are slick, the new small business owner trying to launch a venture or the charity organization needing to get the word out – WZUS-FM was there for them. Twenty-thirteen was a year where WZUS-FM truly met and exceeded the goal its goal of super-serving their clients and their listeners in every way.

WBBM-AM Chicago Raises $2.1 Million For Red Cross

Date Posted: 12/6/2013

CBS-owned WBBM-AM Chicago raised more than $2.1 million during its Day of Giving campaign on December 3. Proceeds from the event will benefit the American Red Cross efforts to aid those affected by the typhoon in the Philippines and by disasters at home. "We were honored to assist in helping get aid to where it’s needed, both locally and around the world," said Marty Wilke, WBBM president and general manager.

WSCR-AM Helps Tornado Victims During Holiday Season

Date Posted: 12/6/2013

CBS Radio’s WSCR-AM Chicago is hosting the fifth annual "Sporting the Spirit" holiday charity drive, this year shifting the focus to providing relief to those in the Midwest who were impacted by recent tornadoes. WSCR-AM set up drop-off sites across Chicago in late November for listeners to donate items that would help with the relief efforts. Beginning the first week of December, listeners will be encouraged to donate holiday gifts and children’s toys. The Sporting the Spirit drive will conclude at the end of December, when station staff will personally deliver the gifts to those in the impacted areas.

WGN-AM and WGN-TV Collect $503,000+ for Tornado Victims

Date Posted: 12/6/2013

Tribune Broadcasting’s WGN-AM and WGN-TV Chicago partnered with the McCormick Foundation to host the Illinois Tornado Relief Day of Giving, a campaign to support nonprofit agencies that are providing disaster relief and recovery efforts to the Midwestern communities hit by the November tornado. While the initiative will continue through the end of the year, thus far the stations have collected more than $503,000. Click here to watch coverage of the campaign.

WEBQ-FM Saves a Local Homeless Shelter

Date Posted: 11/12/2013

Withers Broadcasting-owned WEBQ-FM, Harrisburg, Ill. saved the 4Cs Homeless Shelter, from shutting down on October 31. The $40,000 in donations and pledges that were raised during WEBQ-FM’s eight-hour radiothon was enough to keep the shelter open for almost a year. "The airwaves have power, and [we have] the proof [through events like this],” said Sonny Dotson, WEBQ-FM sales manager in a story that aired on Harrisburg’s WPSD-TV. "

Hubbard’s WTMX-FM Raises $1.4 Million for Children’s Hospital

Date Posted: 10/4/2013

Hubbard Broadcasting’s WTMX-FM Chicago hosted the 14th Annual "Eric and Kathy" Radiothon to support the Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago. With help from several local sports celebrities and area businesses, the 14-hour event raised more than $1.4 million dollars for the hospital. All the proceeds will be used for pediatric research, patient care, education and advocacy efforts. Since 2000, the radiothon has raised more than $23 million for Lurie Children’s Hospital.

Premier Broadcasting Fills 53-Foot Truck with Relief Supplies

Date Posted: 6/7/2013

Premier Broadcasting in Effengham, Ill., partnered with several local businesses to host the "More 4 Moore" campaign to collect emergency supplies for those affected by the tornadoes. Premier created a webpage for the campaign and included solicitations on their Facebook page. Listeners filled a 53-foot truck with donations for tornado victims.

Illinois Broadcasters Team Up for Ukraine Relief

Illinois Helps Ukraine is a joint fundraising campaign between Ukraine Institute of Modern Art and the Illinois Broadcasters Association to benefit UNICEF’s humanitarian relief efforts in Ukraine.

Starting Monday, April 4, television stations and radio stations across the state are joining forces to help encourage Illinoisans to help out by donating to UNICEF. Contributions can also be made by accessing a QR code that will be displayed during public service announcements and news stories.

The goal of Illinois Helps Ukraine is to raise $1 million, with all proceeds going to UNICEF.

WOI-TV, KCAU-TV, WHBF-TV Host Variety Telethon, Raise $3 Million for Kids

Citadel Communication’s WOI-TV Des Moines, KCAU-TV Sioux City and WHBF-TV Rock Island, Ill. recently held the 38th annual Variety Telethon. Variety, the Children’s Charity, reported $3,020,817 in pledges were raised this year. Variety’s first telethon in 1975 raised $150,000 for one grantee organization, the Blank Children’s Hospital. Now, 38 years later, Variety has raised more than $90 million in donations, which have been granted to agencies serving children across the State of Iowa. Thanks to the cast members, volunteers and donors who support Variety during the telethon and throughout the year, Variety is able to raise much needed funds for Iowa’s children.

Legendary Radio Duo Reunites for Pet Emergency Preparedness PSAs

Larry Lujack and Tommy Edwards, the legendary duo behind the Animal Stories radio series, recently reunited to develop a series of public service announcements that highlight the importance of pet preparedness. Two hundred radio stations across Illinois will run the PSAs sponsored by the Illinois Emergency Management Agency, in partnership with the Illinois Broadcasting Association. "These radio spots are really fun and will help us catch the listener’s ear with our message about pet preparedness," said IEMA director Jonathon Monken.

WTMX-FM Supports Breast Cancer Awareness Walk

Team Mix from WTMX-FM in Chicago, Ill., put on walking shoes to raise money for the fight against breast cancer. Listeners were invited to join morning show host Kathy Hart, traffic reporter Melissa McGureen and assistant morning show producer Cynthia Skolak at the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer Chicago. The station provided more than $70,000 worth of airtime and Web site support for the walk, airing promotional announcements before, updates during and reports after. In addition, staff gave more than 150 hours of their time to the event. Team MIX covered 39 miles of Chicago streets during the two-day walk and raised more than $50,000 for the Avon Foundation, which awarded more than $8.3 million in grants to seven Chicago area organizations as a result of the walk.

Illinois Broadcasters Association Launches "Giving Tuesday"

The Illinois Broadcasters Association (IBA) launched "Giving Tuesday," an effort supported by more than 200 radio and television stations across Illinois to benefit the American Red Cross’ Hurricane Sandy relief efforts and "future needs." The IBA Board of Directors passed a resolution to make November 27, "Giving Tuesday," a day of donations to support continued Red Cross relief efforts across Illinois.

CBS’s Chicago Stations Make a Difference in Sandy’s Wake

CBS Chicago hosted a 13-hour radio-telethon to raise funds for the American Red Cross relief efforts. Red Cross volunteers joined CBS’s Chicago personalities at a phone bank at the downtown Chicago broadcast center. Participating stations included WBBM-AM, WCFS-FM, WSCR-AM, WXRT-FM, WBBM-FM, WUSN-FM, WJMK-FM and CBS affiliate WBBM-TV. Market Manager Rod Zimmerman noted, "It is our civic responsibility as broadcasters to do everything we can to help make a difference."

Illinois Broadcasters Foundation Launches New Scholarship Program

The Illinois Broadcasters Foundation (IBF) recently announced it will match scholarship funds created by members of the Illinois Broadcasters Association (IBA). Specifically, the IBF will match up to $500 of an IBA-member station scholarship designed specifically for graduating high school seniors pursuing a major in a broadcast-related field. Students applying for the scholarship must be academically eligible and accepted by an Illinois university or community college. The IBF committed up to $100,000 for the scholarship program for the 2012-2013 academic year.

"I can’t think of a better use of IBF funds. Bottom line: we’re positively impacting the lives of tomorrow’s broadcasters," said Illinois Broadcasters Foundation Chair Russ Withers, president of Withers Broadcasting.

WGN-TV Toy Drive Breaks Record with 25,000+ Toys

Tribune Broadcast Company’s WGN-TV Chicago’s Morning News Drive-Thru Toy Drive celebrated its ninth year and its second tied to American Idol star Jennifer Hudson. This four-hour event featured carolers, Santa and holiday fun as viewers and companies dropped off more than 25,000 toys, a new record for the toy drive. To cap off the event, AT&T made a surprise donation of $10,000 to Hudson’s Julian D. King Gift Foundation, which gives holiday toys to needy children in Chicago. All toys were distributed to children at Drake Elementary School on Christmas Eve.

WHBF-TV Raises $3 Million for Children’s Charities

Citadel Communications-owned WOI-TV, Des Moines/Ames, Iowa, KCAU-TV, Sioux City, Iowa and WHBF-TV, Rock Island, Ill., combined to host the 37th Annual Variety Telethon in March, raising $3,016,441 to support the local children’s charity. Since its inception on WOI-TV in 1975, the Variety Telethon has raised more than $84 million. Through the generous support of individuals and the corporate community, the Variety telethon has provided funding for capital projects, essential medical equipment and special programs to more than 300 charities throughout Iowa and neighboring states and has put more than 400 "Sunshine Coaches" on the road transporting children to new adventures.

WCIU-TV Supports Hunger Series

Weigel Broadcasting Co. is a supporter of the Greater Chicago Food Depository’s 86 Hunger Series. The Depository recently hosted more than 200 donors and guests at a local restaurant, NAHA, including Art Sims, entertainment contributor on Weigel’s WCIU-TV Chicago morning show, "You & Me This Morning." NAHA is the second of six restaurants to donate its culinary talent to help end hunger in the community. Weigel Broadcasting Co. is a long-standing partner of the Depository, which distributes food to 678,000 Cook County residents each year.

Chicagoans Survive Blizzard Thanks to Broadcasters’ Multicasts, Mobile Video

Chicago, like many cities across the United States, was hit by a massive snowstorm earlier this year that brought sleet, ice and record inches of snow from western Texas to Maine. While most Chicagoans hunkered down in their homes to weather the storm, local broadcasters were hard at work providing round-the-clock coverage of the blizzard. Television stations across the market offered expanded reporting during the storm, including one station, Tribune’s WGN-TV, providing a "Blizzard of 2011 Special Report" starting as early as 3 a.m. CBS-owned WBBM-TV canvassed the city in its Mobile 2 video truck, providing live footage of the storm’s aftermath. Meanwhile, Fox’s WFLD-TV included viewers’ snow videos, in newscasts throughout the day. NBC-owned WMAQ-TV utilized its multicast station to deliver continuous blizzard coverage, while ABC’s WLS-TV relied on social media and mobile video to update viewers with up-to-the-minute bulletins. Click here to learn more about Chicago broadcasters’ efforts.

WZPW Collects 250 Blankets for Winter

To help those in need stay warm through the long winter season, WZPW-FM in Peoria, Ill., hosted its second annual “Blanket Peoria” charity blanket drive. During the month-long campaign, the station broadcast live six times from drop off locations throughout the community and played hundreds of live and recorded promos. In addition, WZPW dedicated a section of its Web site to the cause, posting maps to drop off locations and a running tally of blankets collected. In the end, 250 blankets were collected, a total more than double the original goal. The blankets were distributed to three local charities that care for the needy: the Southside Mission, Crittenton Center and Children’s Home. “I feel so blessed that I have a warm house to live in during the winter months. Not everyone in central Illinois is as lucky” said Jason Parkinson, station program director. "The response from our listeners has been overwhelming. We can’t thank the community enough for helping us provide warmth for so many."

WIXO-FM Launches “Music Matters” Campaign

Knowing the importance music can play in a child’s life, WIXO-FM in Peoria, Ill., teamed with a local music store to provide three area students with musical instruments and free lessons. During the holidays, the station launched its “Music Matters” campaign, asking listeners for nominations of area youth who would like the chance to learn the electric guitar or drums, but whose families could not afford to buy the instruments on their own. Stories about deserving kids flooded in from family and friends. Three lucky recipients were chosen and given an opportunity to follow their passion for music. “These students are very excited and deserve this gift in economic hard times,” said Matt Bahan, morning on-air talent and operations manager for WIXO. “I’m proud of this project, and we will do it again in 2009.”

WFYR-FM Distributes 1,500 Teddy Bears to Kids at Children’s Hospital

Valentine’s Day was a lot sweeter for kids at the Children’s Hospital of Illinois thanks to WFYR-FM in Peoria, Ill., and its third annual teddy bear drive. Morning co-hosts Lisa Franks and Rick Stephenson started the program as a way to extend community giving past the holiday season. The duo reaches out to WFYR listeners each February with a goal of providing every hospitalized child and visiting sibling with a teddy bear. This year, nearly 1,500 teddy bears were collected and personally delivered by station staff. Since the program started, more than 6,500 teddy bears have made their way into the arms of a child. “We will be back to make another delivery next year,” said Stephenson.

WFLD-TV Participates in Fundraising Event for Childhood Cancer

More than 3,800 students from 44 schools went bald and beautiful, along with anchor Patrick Elwood and other staff from WFLD-TV in Chicago, Ill., as part of St. Baldrick’s, the world’s largest volunteer-driven fundraising event for childhood cancer research. Thousands of students answered the call when Elwood asked them to take the “Fox Chicago School Challenge,” where students asked for pledges to shave their heads, an act of moral support for all those going through cancer treatment. In its fourth year, the effort generated more than $1.1 million to benefit cancer hospitals across the country, including eight in the Chicago area. Keeping viewers throughout the city involved, Elwood profiled a different participating school each week, allowing students to share stories about how cancer has touched their lives. Many students shaved their heads in honor of a loved one or classmate battling the disease. After the campaign concluded, Elwood, who is shorn each year at his alma mater, Brother Rice High School, said, “I’m so proud of all the students across the city that went bald for this great cause.” Elwood ended each of his “School Challenge” visits with the same message: “Together, we can make a difference.”

WMAQ-TV Sponsors "First Look for Charity"

Thousands gather to support charities from the Windy City while getting an exclusive preview of the vehicles at the annual Auto Show at "First Look for Charity," a black-tie event sponsored by WMAQ-TV in Chicago, Ill. Now in its tenth year, the sold out gala represents one of the largest single-event fundraisers in the city. In 2008, nearly $2.5 million was generated during the evening, which was co-hosted by WMAQ’s Allison Rosati. Funds go to support 18 local charities, including Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago, Autism Speaks, the Multiple Sclerosis Society and the Boys and Girls Clubs of Chicago. In addition to the production of public service announcements to raise viewer awareness, WMAQ runs ample news coverage, including live cut-ins from the gala and news profiles of the beneficiaries and their good work.

WAND-TV Promotes WSOY-AM’s Food Drive

WAND-TV in Decatur, Ill., has jumped on board to help promote WSOY-AM’s annual Community Food Drive. In just the second year of the WSOY and WAND partnership, collections have increased 125 percent, bringing in a record 280,000 pounds of food to help Catholic Charities and the Salvation Army fill their pantries for the winter months. At the most recent drive, WAND’s coverage began with live remotes during its early morning newscast and continued with two live remotes every hour. The coverage wrapped up with news stories in the early evening and 10 p.m. newscast. The remotes were recorded and posted on the station Web site, which also kept a running total of the food collected and information regarding how individuals could donate. "WAND-TV is instrumental in promoting and publicizing this event to ensure its success; and this is important because each year the total in pounds of food that is collected has always surpassed the previous year," said Robin Murray, community services supervisor at Catholic Charities. "We look forward to another successful event this year with the help from our friends at WAND-TV."

WJBC-AM Organizes "Operation Porchlight Welcome Home Parade"

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When the Illinois Army National Guard HHD 33rd Military Battalion was deployed to Iraq, WJBC-AM in Bloomington, Ill., and Operation Porchlight cared for the soldiers’ families back home. Providing a proper send-off, WJBC covered the battalion’s deployment on the air, sending broadcast teams along on the highway to make sure the soldiers knew how much the community cared. During the battalion’s deployment, WBJC encouraged more than $10,000 worth of donations for the soldiers’ families by running stories and hosting a donation link from the station Web site. The station also worked with the military to coordinate interviews with the soldiers overseas, which provided listeners with a firsthand account of the emotional strain and sacrifice felt both by the soldiers and their loved ones. When the battalion returned home in the fall of 2007, WBJC helped organize a community-wide "Operation Porchlight Welcome Home Parade." After being escorted through two adjacent communities in convertibles, the soldiers were greeted by their families and dignitaries at the Illinois National Guard Armory. WJBC set up 14 broadcasts on the parade route and provided four hours of continuous coverage. The station also printed up and gave away "Welcome Home 33rd" buttons, conducted more than 30 on-air interviews with soldiers and military, and ran hundreds of promotions for the event. Seven thousand community members waving American flags and holding "Welcome Home" banners greeted the soldiers upon their return. WJBC is winner of the 2008 National Association of Broadcasters Crystal Award.

WLS-TV Broadcasts Town Hall Meeting About Violence Toward Youth

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An escalating number of senseless crimes leading to violence and murder among school-age students prompted WLS-TV in Chicago, Ill., to look for solutions. First, the station engaged viewers with an hour-long, commercial-free broadcast of a town hall meeting organized by the Chicago Foundation for Women’s "What Will It Take?" campaign. Next, the station produced a three-part special series, "Stop the Violence." Each 30-minute, commercial-free program explored a different aspect of the problem and possible solutions. Starting two weeks before each broadcast, the station ran a heavy promotional schedule to encourage its viewers to watch. Press releases were sent out to print media, and the station also reached out to local radio. Hosted by key WLS evening anchors, the specials included interviews with the local superintendent of police, the president of the Chicago Board of Education, school counselors, a father whose son was murdered and a local pastor. The specials have helped start a dialogue about how to find resolutions to conflicts before they escalate into violence.

WCRX-FM Launched "Job Outlook 2007"

It made sense for WCRX-FM in Chicago, Ill., a radio station housed within a local college that teaches students the business from top to bottom, to use the airwaves to help graduating students land jobs. So the station took action and launched "Job Outlook 2007," a month-long public service campaign focused on job search strategies, economic news, career development and employment opportunities. The effort included a variety of on-air programming, such as "Job Tips," three daily reports filled with job hunting advice, "The WCRX Job Line," three daily reports featuring local employment opportunities, and a regular live program that brought job experts into the studio to answer questions from listeners and a studio audience. Discussions during the live show covered everything from pre- and post-interview protocols to making the transition from college to the workplace. WCRX was a National Association of Broadcasters Crystal Radio Award Finalist in 2008.

WDBR-FM Washes 100 Dogs at the Station-Organized

The entire staff of WDBR-FM in Springfield, Ill., went hands-on, scrubbing 100 pooches at the station-organized "Illinois Humane Society Dog Wash." In addition to getting a clean dog, community members also had the opportunity to have their pets microchipped. More than 140 promotional spots and live announcements aired for three weeks prior to the event. A homepage presence on the station Web site and an email blast to its listener club helped make sure everyone with a dirty dog heard about the opportunity. In addition to a two-hour live broadcast, the station conducted dog contests and provided water for people and dogs alike. The event raised $2,500 for the humane society and 80 dogs received microchips. The station also regularly helps the humane society find homes for pets with "Find a Home Friday," a monthly segment during its morning show. A humane society representative brings a pet for adoption to the studio for an interview and the pet’s picture and story are posted on the station’s site. WDBR was a National Association of Broadcasters Crystal Award Finalist in 2008.

WGN-AM Produces "Hometown Voices Tour"

The "Hometown Voices Tour," a live on-site series produced by WGN-AM in Chicago, Ill., pays tribute to the people, places and things that make communities throughout Chicagoland unique. Each month, a different local area is selected, and one of four main weekday programs takes its show on the road to broadcast from that location. Programming includes reports about community events, historical information, pressing issues facing residents, interviews with local politicians, and vignettes about interesting people and places. Broadcasts have taken place in public museums, community arts centers, historic buildings and popular neighborhood eateries. During its visit, the station also salutes a "Hometown Hero," who is selected from listener nominations. The "Hometown Photos" section of the station Web site adds an interactive component, allowing community members to share their own pictures of areas the station visits. True to the station’s "The Voice of Chicago" tagline, the tour allows all the communities served by the station to directly be a part of programming. WGN was a National Association of Broadcasters Crystal Award Finalist in 2008.

WDRV-FM Launches "Get Green" campaign

In partnership with the Shedd Aquarium and the Alliance to Save Energy, WDRV-FM in Chicago, Ill., launched a "Get Green" campaign to encourage Chicagoans to take an earth-friendly approach to their everyday life. The effort focused on one simple idea: "Imagine the positive impact if we all pitched in!" The station ran nearly 1,000 30-second announcements about how small changes can collectively have a big impact on the earth. The practical tips ranged from turning town the temperature on water heaters to installing low-flow showers and faucets. In addition, the station created a companion "Green Thoughts" Web site, which featured a listing of e-recycling events, tips on being green at work and at home, and a community board for listeners to share their "green habits." WDRV was awarded the National Association of Broadcasters Crystal Radio Award in 2008.






How Broadcasters Serve Their Communities

More than 2.47 million American jobs depend on broadcasting, and the local broadcast radio and television industry - and the businesses that depend on it - generate $1.17 trillion annually for the nation's economy.


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