Las Vegas, Nevada, July 5, 2011 – The Nevada Broadcasters Association (NBA) Board of Directors is pleased to announce that the 16th Annual NBA Scholarship Gala – recognizing and showcasing excellence in Nevada’s radio and television industry – will be held Saturday, August 20, 2011 at the Red Rock Casino, Resort & Spa starting promptly at 5:30 p.m. The dress is cocktail attire.

The iconic star, comedian, actor, author, producer, director and recording artist, and 60-year host of the MDA Telethon, Jerry Lewis – one of the most successful performers in show business history and the greatest comedians of the 20th Century, will receive the highest honor the NBA bestows upon a Nevada broadcaster – the NBA Lifetime Achievement Award. In agreeing to accept the NBA award, Mr. Lewis indicated it would be one of his most meaningful recognitions because it would be presented by Nevadans to a Nevadan.

Mr. Lewis will be honored for his extraordinary commitment to radio and television, the art of comedy, the stage and screen, directing, producing and screen writing, education and philanthropy.  His philanthropic work is unparalleled — estimated to have raised over 2 billion dollars!  For his dedication to the fight against Muscular Dystrophy since 1949, Lewis was inducted into the French Legion of Honor, awarded the Department of Defense Medal for Distinguished Public Service, nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize and received numerous industry and humanitarian recognitions.

The evening’s theme, “Where Eagles Soar ~ The Miracle of Broadcast,” will pay tribute to the extraordinary life of Mr. Lewis, as well as honor the Nevada Army National Guard with the NBA Community Achievement Award for its contributions to homeland security and preserving freedom around the world.  

R&R Partners will be honored with the inaugural NBA Pinnacle Award for their ”dedication to excellence and commitment to making a difference.” This marks the first time that the NBA will honor an advertising agency. This new award reflects the value of broadcasters forming partnerships to help create a better community. R&R’s CEO, Billy Vassiliadis, will accept the award on behalf of his agency.

The evening begins at 5:30 p.m. The cost for the celebration is only $75 per person. Tables of 8 are $600; Tables of 10 are $750; Tables of 12 are $900. This affordable price is made possible by generous donations and corporate sponsorships.

Proceeds from event will benefit the Nevada Broadcasters Foundation and will fund scholarships, in the name of Linda and Tony Bonnici, for passionate students who attend or are about to enter college/ university and will study in the field of Broadcasting. Each recipient will receive one full year’s tuition to the Nevada college or university of their choice and the opportunity to experience an internship at a Nevada radio or television station. Scholarship recipients may be eligible to continue receiving full tuition and the internship each year for a maximum of four years of higher education. 

This 16th Annual NBA Scholarship Gala also recognizes deserving individuals for their dedication and achievements in the broadcast industry. The NBA Hall of Fame was created in 1996 to bring added acknowledgement, recognition and respect to members of the radio and television industry in Nevada.

Nominations for the Class of 2011 are still being accepted for induction into this year’s Hall of Fame. Nominees are required to have worked 20 or more years in the radio and/or television industry (with a minimum of 5 years of work experience in Nevada). For details, call Earlene Lefler at 702-794-4994.

“This is not a competitive award and has become and remains a great honor,” says Thom Porterfield, outgoing chairman of the NBA. “This year, the NBA will honor many men and women who have worked tirelessly in the broadcast industry.  It is a privilege for us to extend our appreciation and to say, thank you.”  Each 2011 inductee and one guest will receive complimentary admission to the event.