Hello Wisconsin Broadcasters,
On behalf of your WBA Awards Committee, we hope you’re having a great summer and have started to document and save your potential entries for this year’s contest. You are a part of the largest state broadcaster awards program in the nation and we can’t wait to see what you have to show!
Data shows us that those who submit to our contest are competing to win, and win big. Now is a great time to take a look at your station or cluster strengths and begin to map out a winning plan for what fits you best. Are you seeking awards for individuals or for your station? Is your group spreading out entries throughout, or do you strategically rotate one station of emphasis to nab a News Operation or Station of the Year award?
Winners of the major “Of The Year” awards historically use these best practices:
- They decide early whether they are competing for an Operation of the Year, or a Station of the Year. By doing so, they more clearly define where their entries will count the most.
- They have a point person who is their keeper of entries – and ensures they are maximizing their entries to provide the most possible points for categories that lift their chances for an “Of The Year” title.
- They “Enter to win” by having two submissions for as many categories as possible. That guarantees them 1 point for participation, but could also create additional points if they place more than once in the category!
Remember – winning News Operation of the Year is NOT an automatic for winning Station of the Year. You can compete for one, the other, or both! Make sure your entry strategy best set you up for the larger award you value most.
Your WBA Awards Committee meets every year to ensure your feedback is heard and items are addressed and improved. A few items we would like you to be aware of are:
- It’s an election year, so the special category for Election Coverage is back.
- Time limits – both minimum and maximum – are a leading cause of disqualifications. Make sure your submitted files fit within the guidelines for that award.
- Ensure all required items are included in your submission. (rundown, pdf, video or audio clip)
- Ensure you are NOT including items that are not asked for (no links allowed in a pdf. Some awards do not allow a pdf at all.)
Finally, we’d like to recognize the committee members involved in planning the program and putting on the show. No one is afraid to speak their mind. They all contribute and do great work on behalf of our industry and the Awards Gala.
Terry Bell, Civic Media
Nancy Douglas, WLKG, Lake Geneva
Jill Genter, WKOW-TV, Madison
Robert Jarzen, Audacy, Madison/Milwaukee
Betsy Keefe, WSAW-TV, Wausau
Heather Reese, PBS Wisconsin
Lindsay Wood Davis, Chair Emeritus
We’re counting down the months and look forward to seeing all of you again for the big bash at the Madison Marriott West on May 3!
Sincerely,
Lynn Bieritz & Tom Swigert
WBA Awards Committee Co-Chairs
