There is still time to submit nominations for the 2010 NAB HD Radio Multicast Award! The award was established in 2007 to recognize stations utilizing HD Radio technology through innovative and groundbreaking programming on a multicast channel.

KBCO-FM was one of two stations to win the first HD Radio Multicast Award in 2007. KBCO’s HD Radio side channel, “The Studio C Channel,” features only songs recorded in KBCO’s Studio C. The live music recordings are played throughout the day and are so popular with listeners that KBCO releases CDs of recordings every year with the proceeds going to charity.

KBCO Program Director Scott Arbough believes innovative HD programming is important because it “offers an extension of what is KBCO.” Arbough notes that side channels provide listeners with more opportunities to hear KBCO offerings, making them less likely to switch to another station.

WAMU-FM's HD Radio side channel, "WAMU's Bluegrass Country," won the HD Radio Multicast Award in 2009. Innovative HD programming is important to WAMU listeners because, according to Music Manager Jen Hitt, "bluegrass helped start the station," and HD side channels make it possible to keep a "40 year tradition alive; without the side channels, the tradition would be lost."

WAMU's HD Radio side channels feature live bluegrass programming, along with live hosting, providing listeners with their favorite music in addition to the personal connection local DJ's provide. WAMU has capitalized on this opportunity to educate the local community about the many benefits of HD Radio, according to Music Manager Jen Hitt. She views HD Radio as a "vocal champion," allowing broadcasters to customize programs for a local audience.

The last day to nominate your station for the 2010 NAB HD Award is July 30. The winner will be recognized at this year’s Radio Show, September 29 to October 1 in Washington, D.C.

To learn more about the award visit www.nab.org/HDAward or contact Melek Demir in NAB's Radio department at (202) 775-3511. Don't delay - nominate your station today for recognition.