FAB annual convention

The 2026 Florida Association of Broadcasters Annual Convention brought our industry together at The Breakers in Palm Beach for two days of connection, insight, and celebration.

Our program tackled the conversations shaping the future of broadcasting. Daniel Anstandig opened with a keynote on the future of AI, and David Snyder, Joe Mifsud, Masa Patterson, and Michael Newman returned to the topic with a practical panel on what's actually working. Brad Seitter and Andy Alford explored the future of local television, while Kevin Rolston, Rob Babin, and Allen Power looked at the future of local radio. Steve Goldstein and Brian Lawlor discussed the return of live sports to broadcast, and Ryan Tyson broke down Florida's voter landscape.

The political media conversation ran deep, with Ryan Houck, Marc Reichelderfer, Robin Roberts, and Michael O'Brien on the strategy and spending shaping campaigns, and Frank Montero in conversation with Shawn Donilon of the NAB on the legislative landscape. Brewster Bevis of Associated Industries of Florida offered a business-community perspective, and Kevin Guthrie of the Florida Division of Emergency Management shared a powerful message on broadcasting through crisis. Derron Steenbergen delivered a rousing "Broadcast Proud" rally cry, and Mike Weinisch of Nielsen closed the program with what's next in audience measurement. Congressman Byron Donalds joined Caroline Beasley for a conversation on the enduring value of trusted local media.

We also paused to honor our own. We celebrated the remarkable 38-year legacy of FAB President Emeritus Pat Roberts, welcomed Heather Lomagistro as President and CEO and John Soapes as Chair, and recognized Lara Kunkler with the Chairman's Award and Dan Spears with the William J. Brooks Award.

The convention closed with our Hall of Fame Gala, inducting two extraordinary broadcasters, Caroline Beasley and Jeannie Blaylock, with our emcees keeping the energy high throughout and a show-stopping performance by country star Lauren Alaina.

Thank you to everyone who joined us. Watch the full recap below.