07/16/2026
We say it every year—but it's always true: the end of the Convention is a bittersweet moment for us at FAB
From the incredible speaker lineup to the 2026 Florida Broadcasters Hall of Fame Awards Ceremony and Gala, the energy, participation, and company were truly unmatched.
A special thank you to our Chair, Lara Kunkler, and the Executive Committee for shaping this year's agenda and helping refine our Association to be stronger and better than ever.
This year also marked an important moment in our Association's leadership. As part of FAB's regular leadership rotation, John Soapes, President & General Manager of Hearst Television's Orlando and Tampa operations, has moved up to serve as our new Chairman, with Jason Meder, Vice President & Market Manager of Cox Media Group Radio in Tampa, stepping in as Chairman-Elect.
We're deeply grateful to Lara Kunkler for her outstanding leadership over the past two years as she transitions to Immediate Past Chair and continues serving on the Executive Committee.
Please also join us in welcoming Carolyn Cassidy, Vice President & Regional General Manager of Salem Media, to our Executive Committee, along with our newest members of the Board of Directors: Darren Moore, Senior Vice President & Chief Sales Officer of CMG Television; JC Campese, Vice President & Market Manager for Cox Media Group in Orlando; Roger Holler, Founder & Owner of MARC Media Group; and Ralph Renzi, Chief Executive Officer of Newsmax Radio & Audio, joining as an Associate Member. We're thrilled to have their leadership on board as we continue to build an even stronger foundation for the future of FAB.
We'd also like to recognize Adib Eden, one of our longest-serving board members, who is concluding his tenure on the Executive Committee. Adib has been a pillar of this organization, and his wisdom, generosity, and deep love for our industry have helped shape FAB into what it is today.
Thank you as well to all of our speakers (+ moderators and hosts!)—your presentations were insightful, engaging, and incredibly well received. We're grateful for the time, thought, and expertise you shared with our attendees.
We gathered for our Annual Luncheon, where we were honored to present two well-deserved awards. Dan Spears received the Bill Brooks Award, and Lara Kunkler received the Chairman's Award—both a testament to the leadership and dedication they've brought to our Association and our industry.
The luncheon also featured a special performance from singer/songwriter Sheena Brook—what an incredible talent! If you missed her set, be sure to check out her music.
On Thursday evening, we gathered once more for the Florida Broadcasters Hall of Fame Gala and Awards Ceremony, where the Association inducted two of the industry's most influential leaders. These outstanding individuals are shining examples of integrity, innovation, achievement, leadership, and lasting contributions to our industry. It was a true joy to celebrate them—alongside their families, friends, and colleagues. And what a way to cap the evening—a special performance from the incredibly talented Lauren Alaina brought the night to a memorable close.
Please join us in congratulating our 2026 class:
Caroline Beasley — Chief Executive Officer, Beasley Media Group
Jeannie Blaylock — Anchor, First Coast News, WTLV/WJXX
We were also privileged to honor Pat Roberts, FAB President & CEO, for his remarkable 38 years of leadership—a career and legacy that have shaped Florida broadcasting for generations.
As we reflect on this year's event, we are overwhelmed with gratitude. It's been a true blessing to get to know so many of you personally. Your involvement, support, and commitment to this organization—and even more so, the friendships that have formed—mean the world to us.
This is a break-glass moment for our industry. The challenges we face—from competitive media environments to legislative uncertainty—require leadership, unified advocacy, and a renewed commitment to our communities. Despite the adversity, change, and challenge we all face, you and your teams continue to pour your energy into your local communities. You do it because we all believe in the power and importance of local TV and radio—and for that, we thank you.
Photo Gallery:
https://images.wearetheworkmans.com/fabconvention2026/
Password: wearetheworkmans
Download Pin: 4358
Convention Video Highlight Reel:
https://vimeo.com/1208937053?fl=pl&fe=sh
Hall of Fame Inductee "Storyfilm" Videos:
https://www.fab.org/2026-florida-broadcasters-hall-of-fame
We hope to see you on June 15&16, 2027 at The Breakers in Palm Beach for the next FAB Convention!
With gratitude from the FAB Team!
If you have any feedback or suggestions for next year, please email us!
