Ahead of their induction into the New York State Broadcasters Association Hall of Fame, Bill Evans and Gary Sapiane of WLNG were recognized with proclamations from the Sag Harbor Village Board on Tuesday.
“This is a moment that Sag Harbor should be very proud of,” Mayor Thomas Gardella said before reading the proclamations. “WLNG has a longstanding history in the village.” The station began broadcasting in 1963.
Mr. Sapiane, who joined WLNG in 1975, began his career at a Riverhead station while still in high school. He was appointed station manager in 2008. “His voice, vision, and unwavering commitment to local radio became hallmarks of the station’s endurance, success, and unique character,” the mayor read. “His leadership has been instrumental in shaping WLNG into one of New York State’s most distinctive small-market stations, celebrated for its local programming, nostalgic format, and steadfast service to the East End community.”
Mr. Evans, a meteorologist for WABC-TV in New York City for many years who with his wife, Sandra Foschi, bought the station in 2018, serves as WLNG’s program director, chief meteorologist, and morning show co-host. He “has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to excellence in broadcasting over a distinguished career spanning more than 30 years,” Mr. Gardella read. He is a 20-time Emmy Award winner “recognized for his outstanding achievements in meteorology and broadcasting,” the mayor continued, “and is also a New York Times best-selling author.” His induction into the Hall of Fame “serves as a testament to his exceptional contributions to the media industry, his lasting impact on the profession of broadcasting, and his profound influence on the communities he has served.”
The induction ceremony happens on Wednesday at the Rainbow Room in Manhattan.
