Funeral services will be held Wednesday for Wallens who spent 40 years on the radio at WHLD-AM in the upstate New York City. She was known for spreading good news about Buffalo, and honored over 300 residents with her "Good Neighbor" award to people who made a difference in the community on her Friday radio program.
She also interviewed many celebrities that were on their way to performing at Melody Fair theater in North Tonawanda. Over the years, Mrs. Wallens interviewed the likes of Liberace, Jack Benny, Ethel Merman and Harry Belafonte. Iney's age was a bit of a secret. She told a reporter in 2009, "Age is a number and mine isn't listed."
Iney was born and raised in Buffalo. She had a passion for promoting charities and community causes. Her radio program ran until 2008. Her awards included the Distinguished Broadcasters Award from the Buffalo Broadcast Pioneers, the Hometown Hero Award from the Niagara Falls Convention and Visitors Bureau, and the Woman of the Year Award from the American Women of Radio and Television. Survivors include her son, Dr. Todd Wallens; a daughter, Bonnie McClure; and a sister, Gloria Sandler.
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