One of North America’s oldest and longest-running News stations will celebrate its 50th anniversary with a star-studded celebration featuring a special interview and closing song from legendary recording artist Tony Bennett.
CBS Radio’s Gotham flagship WCBS-AM 880 will present “Celebrating 50 Years of News: A Night of New York Stories” on Tuesday, August 8 at the PlayStation Theater in Midtown Manhattan.
The event will be hosted by WCBS anchor Wayne Cabot, the stations longest-tenure anchor; and Alex Silverman, who joined WCBS-AM in April 2011. “Some of New York City’s most notable names in news, politics, sports and entertainment” will also be on hand to celebrate the 50th anniversary of “Newsradio 880” and what was formerly known as “Newsradio 88.”
These individuals include 60 Minutes reporters Jeff Fager and Lesley Stahl, former New York Giants co-Captain George Martin, Late Show with David Letterman bandleader Paul Shaffer, and former New York Mets Manager Bobby Valentine.
“Newsradio 880 is a trusted New York City news outlet with a rich history and legacy of delivering up-to-the-minute news,” said Marc Rayfield, SVP/Market Manager of CBS Radio New York. “We are proud to be a part of the fabric of New York and will continue to tell the stories of the people, places and happenings from all around this great city. This special night is a chance to gather with listeners, station personalities and prominent figures to celebrate what the station has meant for the past 50 years and will continue to mean well into the future.”
The fete comes as Entercom prepares to acquire WCBS-AM and all of CBS Radio. While the CBS Radio News brand will continue to be used for Entercom for at least one year after the company closes on CBS’s AM and FM properties, its future could be in question. Already, “Entercom Sports” has been established, with Mike Dee at its helm following a tenure as President/CEO of the San Diego Padres Major League Baseball club.
Celebrating 50 Years of News: A Night of New York Stories will begin at 8pm; doors open at 6:30pm. Tickets go on sale at 10am Friday (6/23) via www.axs.com. Ticket prices range from $55 to $150; a portion of the proceeds will be donated to Exploring the Arts Foundation, Tony Bennett’s charity organization dedicated to transforming the lives of young people through arts education.
