2006 VAB Winter Meeting & Legislative Gala Highlights

This year’s winter meeting and legislative gala proved once again a productive and entertaining event for all of those who attended.

Members enjoyed Ron Shapiro’s dynamic teaching and presentation skills on his ‘win win’ strategies.

Participants held his ‘hands-on’ approach and one-on-one negotiation exercises in high regard. They found his advice and tips beneficial and applicable in their daily lives and professional interactions.

During the luncheon, Brigadier General Robert Newman discussed the current status of the National Guard—current issues, the duties that are being carried out and how they are protecting the United States.

As Virginia’s new Adjutant General, Newman expressed appreciation by thanking the broadcasters for ‘getting the word out’ through NCSAs.

Later that evening, Bruce Kirk accepted the Laurence E. Richardson award on behalf of WSET-TV in Lynchburg.

A compelling video on the station’s coverage of the Tsunami and Hurricane Katrina events and relief efforts was shown before Kirk thanked the Virginia Association of Broadcasters and commended the staff of WSET-TV.

VAB president Mario Hewitt presented Peter and Doug Easter of Easter Associates, Inc. a plaque of recognition for 30 years in partnership as well.

Featured speaker Steve Doocy of Fox and Friends took gala attendees on a comical journey of his personal career in broadcasting—his professional ups and downs, or the occasional and often unexpected “hiatus,” and the eventual landing of his co-anchor position at FOX.

Doocy concluded his speech on a serious note by sharing his direct experiences in New York during 911 and its aftermath as a broadcaster.

The gala and meeting was a true success and promises to deliver again next year.