For Release: Feb. 26, 2007
E d Mastrean, director of community relations at KET, was presented with the National Advocacy Award by the Association of Public Television Stations (APTS) in recognition of his exceptional efforts in support of public television.The award, presented February 13 during the APTS Capitol Hill Day in Washington, recognizes individuals and stations that exemplify effective advocacy on behalf of public television's legislative priorities.
Mastrean was cited for his key role in arranging a live demonstration last year of the Digital Emergency Alert System (DEAS) to U.S. Rep. Harold "Hal" Rogers (R-KY), then chair of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security. DEAS was created by APTS and the Department of Homeland Security to improve and disseminate public alerts and warnings during times of national crisis through the use of local public television's digital television broadcasts. The system is expected to be completed by the end of 2007.
"Ed is a model of what a station government relations professional should be," said APTS president and CEO John Lawson. "He is in constant contact with members of Congress, building relationships that are crucial to public broadcasters' interests."
"As we travel thousands of miles a year across the Commonwealth, Ed knows folks in all 120 counties," added Mac Wall, KET's executive director. "He truly understands the importance of staying in touch with those KET serves--the local communities."
In addition to his work for KET, Mastrean is past chairman of the Kentucky Broadcasters Association; a board member of the Kentucky Council on Economic Education, Kentucky Music Museum and Hall of Fame, Kentucky Press Association Associates, Lexington Area Sports Authority and Clark Regional Medical Center; and serves as board president of Rose Mary C. Brooks Place, a Winchester retirement facility.
"I am honored to be chosen as a recipient of the National Advocacy Award," Mastrean said. "I must compliment and thank the APTS staff for their efforts and assistance in making all of our advocacy campaigns worthy of notice to an audience which knows how to ask the tough questions. I share this award with the staff at KET as well, whose commitment to service and excellence makes public broadcasting such an easy sell."
APTS is a nonprofit membership organization established in 1980 to support the continued growth and development of a strong and financially sound noncommercial television service for the American public. APTS provides advocacy for public television interests at the national level, as well as consistent leadership and information in marshaling support for its members: the nation's public television stations. APTS's affiliated organization, APTS Action Inc., provides legislative advocacy and seeks grassroots and congressional support.
More information about KET programming and education services, as well as how to support KET, can be found at www.ket.org.