Local Radio Service for the Blind Receives International Awards

Worcester based Audio Journal, a radio reading service for individuals who are blind or otherwise challenged, was recognized with two Program of the Year Awards by the International Association of Audio Information Services this June at the group’s annual conference in Dallas, Texas for their entries Out of Site and Stump the Listener. They competed with dozens of other programs from countries throughout the world.

Out of Sight, winner of the Interview/Call-In category, was hosted by former staff member Jason Rufo, previously of Spencer, who is himself totally blind. The program covers topics related to the blindness community. The winning entry was devoted to a compelling look at blindness and the music industry.

“This is a fitting tribute to a fine young man, our past Outreach/Development Coordinator,” said Audio Journal Director Vince Lombardi, who traveled to Dallas to accept the award. “It represents one more piece of the legacy Jay leaves behind with us. Congratulations to Jay and to all who contribute to this award-winning agency.” Out of Sight has been a multiple winner, garnering awards in 2003, 2004, 2005, and 2006.

The Stump the Listener contest received honorable mention in the Thematic Programming category. These short local trivia presentations are broadcast after each live program and motivate listeners to call in for prizes. Lombardi writes and produces the program, relying on several volunteers to help provide voices of the often offbeat characters featured in the skits. Stump the Listener was also an award winner in 2005 and 2008.  Lombardi has been the director of the agency since 1999.