Thursday, September 19, 2013

NAB’s Smith Reminds Radio of Broader Role

Gordon Smith
In his Radio Show remarks, NAB President and CEO Gordon Smith opened with a remembrance to KHTK Dallas morning host Kidd Kraddick, who died in July.

Smith said Kraddick had a special connection to Orlando.  Each year, his charity, Kidd's Kids, sent terminally and chronically ill children to Disney World with their families. Kidd's listeners donated the funds to make these trips possible.

According to Smith, “the passing of Kidd, and sadly many other good friends in radio this year, reminds us of the power of this great medium… its connection to listeners… and its impact on communities.

Every day, Smith said there are stories of broadcasters serving the public in times of crisis. “Sadly, we experienced this earlier this week when a terrible tragedy occurred at the Navy Yard, not far from NAB headquarters in Washington, D.C.

“At times like this, we know we can turn to broadcast radio and television to help keep us safe.”

He stated broadcasters share the mission of serving our local communities - providing them with the news, emergency updates, and entertainment that they rely on each day.

Smith reminded attendees that radio's future lies with the listener, and broadcasters must keep looking forward in order to meet those needs.

“Unfortunately, many businesses are unable to think long-term, focusing instead on short-term gains to satisfy Wall Street… they seem only capable of concentrating on the here and now.”

Read a transcript of Smith’s Comments: Click Here.

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