The Wrap

March 6, 2026

The Wrap today is 874 words and a 4 minute read.

👋 Good morning! Thanks for checking out The Wrap, NAB’s weekly newsletter.
Join NAB and strengthen the future of your business and free, local broadcasting.

We welcome your feedback at nab@nab.org.

1. Broadcasters Convene in Washington for NAB State Leadership Conference

Sen. John Barrasso

Sen. John Barrasso (WY) addresses attendees at NAB’s State Leadership Conference.

One big thing: Over 570 television and radio broadcasters from across the country gathered in Washington, D.C., this week for NAB’s annual State Leadership Conference (SLC), meeting with lawmakers on Capitol Hill to advocate for policies that strengthen local stations including modernizing outdated ownership rules, protecting AM radio in cars and advancing NextGen TV.

  • Emceed by Steve Patterson, host of Hubbard Radio’s myTalk 107.1 and the nationally syndicated “Donna & Steve Show,” the event gave broadcasters a chance to hear panel discussions and briefings from policymakers and NAB staff before traveling to the Hill to speak with their legislators.
  • Speakers included Senate Majority Whip John Barrasso (WY), Sen. Ed Markey (MA) and Chairman of the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Communications and Technology Rep. Richard Hudson (NC-09).
  • NAB President and CEO Curtis LeGeyt outlined the urgent need to modernize outdated regulations that prevent local stations from competing on a level playing field with global technology platforms.
  • 🏆 Also at SLC, NAB presented the Crystal Radio Awards to 10 stations, honoring them for their outstanding community service. Ralph Oakley received the Chuck Sherman Television Leadership Award in recognition of his exceptional contributions to local television.
  • View the full list of NAB Crystal Radio Awards winners here.

2. Celebrating America 250: Toolkit and Spots Now Available

Broadcasters Celebrate America 250

As our nation turns 250 years old, NAB is spotlighting the essential role broadcasters play in recording history and serving local communities.

  • Why it matters: Broadcasters have brought America’s defining moments to the airwaves for generations – and we’ll do it again for our nation’s semiquincentennial.

Here’s what’s new:

  • We Are Broadcasters TV and radio spots highlighting how stations have captured America’s greatest moments and continue to celebrate our shared history.
  • “Our American Story, Local Edition: A Guide for TV and Radio Stations” to help you get involved, including:
    • Ideas for covering local America 250 events.
    • Ways to engage viewers and listeners to share their stories.
    • Ready-to-use resources and inspiration.
  • We want to feature you. Share your station’s plans and stories at wearebroadcasters@nab.org so we can amplify them with policymakers.

3. Big Industry Stars. One Unforgettable NAB Show.

NAB Show Main Stage

The stage is set for an extraordinary NAB Show!

  • Nate Bargatze, the number one grossing comedian in the world, will receive the 2026 Television Chairman’s Award during the We Are Broadcasters Main Stage event, followed by an exclusive fireside chat and Q-and-A.
  • Mo Rocca, award-winning “CBS Sunday Morning” correspondent and master storyteller, will also be honored with the 2026 Library of American Broadcasting Foundation Insight Award for a career that blends journalism, history and humor with lasting cultural impact.

And that’s just the beginning. Don’t miss the NAB Small and Medium Market Radio Forum on Sunday, April 19, featuring peer-driven roundtables and practical strategy sessions built specifically for local radio leaders.

With powerhouse Main Stage moments, bold conversations across TV and Radio HQ and forward-looking programming on AI, monetization and audience growth, NAB Show is the can’t-miss event for broadcasters ready to lead what’s next.

🎟 Secure your Premium Conference Pass and register today.


4. New Spots Added to AM Radio Toolkit

AM Radio Toolkit

Radio spots touting the benefit of easy access to AM and FM radio in vehicles are now available in English and Spanish on the NAB AM radio toolkit. These spots remind consumers shopping for new automobiles of the convenience of having radio at your fingertips. Spots are provided courtesy of iHeart Media.

Don’t forget, NAB also has spots available thanking supporters of the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act. We encourage you to air these spots to show policymakers the power of free, local radio while urging Congress to pass this vital legislation.


5. Enter Your Station to Win a Service to America Award

STA winners on stage

The Service to America Awards honor excellence in community service and the impact made by local television and radio stations across the country.

  • Don’t forget: We are accepting entries for stations that host original podcasts, as well as stations that were first informers during local emergencies.
  • ✏️ Click here to submit your station’s work today.

6. New PSAs Available from American Lung Association

Listen To Your Lungs

Refresh your station’s public service announcement creative at NAB’s Spot Center, a destination for local television and radio broadcasters seeking public educational materials from credible organizations.

  • TV and radio spots from the Ad Council and American Lung Association use positive messaging to encourage lung cancer screenings.

7. See How NAB Members Saved on Shipping in 2025

Experience More

NAB members saved more than $2,700 last year through exclusive UPS® discounts, helping broadcasters ship smarter while managing costs.

Member savings include:

  • 65% off Domestic Next Day
  • 42% off Ground shipping
  • Up to 65% off International
  • Significant savings on LTL Freight

In addition, members receive access to shipping protection and flexible pickup options to streamline operations.

🎙️ Join NAB to unlock UPS savings and more member benefits today.


👍 or 👎 ? Tell us what you think of The Wrap!