Prior to Smith's remarks, MDCD Board Chairman Rudy Guernica, vice president and general manager of Entravision Television Group, Washington, D.C., provided a "State of the Association" report, and also introduced the organization's Board of Directors and staff.
During dinner, guests heard remarks from Dr. Andy Bauer, regional economist for the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond, Va. Bauer noted that business spending is "robust and should continue to increase." Job growth has improved and unemploy-ment is down by one percent, he added. "It's important that more people are working," he said, "because more income means more spending." This also gives consumers confidence in the future, which, in turn, translates into more demand for credit as renters become homeowners and also begin to think about purchasing new or used vehicles.
Musical entertainment was provided by BMI songwriter Charlie Worsham, left. "It means a lot to play for you," Worsham said. "You [broadcasters] are the most important way musicians can promote their craft."
Following Worsham there was an update on the new Non-Commercial Sustaining Announcement program, including examples of the Army National Guard's latest television campaign.
Concluding the program were remarks from the Federal Communications Commission Enforcement Bureau's James T. Higgins, deputy regional director - Northeast, and Salomon Satche, district director - Columbia, Md.
MDCD is a regional association that protects and serves the interests of all Maryland, District of Columbia and Delaware radio and television broadcasters.
Lisa Reynolds is the association's executive manager.
