New York tristate area McDonald’s restaurants have once again celebrated the achievements and talents of Black media legends and trailblazers.
At a ceremony earlier this month, McDonald’s honored several local journalists for their contribution to radio, print and television journalism in appreciation of their work. The event was hosted by nationally recognized award-winning journalist for NY1 News Cheryl Wills and Emmy Award-winning TV journalist Brenda Blackmon at the Pierre Hotel in Manhattan.
This year is the eighth anniversary, and McDonald’s honored 13 Black media legends and trailblazers who have had an impact on the community through their achievements and positive examples.
The honorees include Chuck Carter (WPIX 11), Don Collins (CBS 2), Adrian Council (Positive Community), the Rev. Dennis Dillon (Christian Times), William Egyir (New York Beacon), Hank Hamlette (NBC 4), Regina Leader McKinnis (Fox 5), Yvette Miley (MSNBC), Les Payne (Newsday and NABJ), Robert Pickett, Esq. (WBLS), Deborah Roberts (ABC News), Shaila Scott (WBLS) and Tracie Strahan (NBC 4).
The event also featured great musical selections, one of which was the singing of the Negro National Anthem, “Lift Every Voice,” by 10-year-old K’Lynn Jackman, who is currently starring as Nala in “The Lion King” on Broadway. Also, Tony Award winner Melba Moore performed “Lean on Me.”
The 2015 “Faces of Black History” poster featuring the honorees was unveiled at the event and will also be featured on tray liners in McDonald’s restaurants during the month of February throughout the New York tristate area.