1/23/2012
James Delmonico was 91 when he died peacefully Saturday, his family by his side. He was Chairman from 1991 and 1994 and is credited with the resurrection of the Broadcast Pioneers and changing the organization?s name to the Broadcasters Foundation. A foundation statement said "Inheriting an organization with a treasury of less than $30,000 and few grant recipients in 1991, through Delmonico?s leadership and inspiration, and that of his successors - Ward Quaal, Edward McLaughlin and Chairman Philip Lombardo - the organization today has an outreach that will exceed $700,000 in grants this year.
Corrent Broadcasters Foundation Chairman Philip Lombardo praised Jim?s leadership and guidance: ?Jim was a tireless leader for the organization, inspiring the appointment of many notables to the board of directors with new focus, determination, and purpose. Jim was known for challenging his fellow board members to be supportive both financially and by encouraging others to do so. Under his chairmanship, Jim brought new strengths to the organization in those early and important bedrock years. He will be missed.?
As a broadcaster, Delmonico played a significant role in General Electric?s expansion to radio and television. He was elected Vice President of both GE Broadcasting and GE Cablevision Corporation and transferred to Schenectady where, in 1974, he took on the added responsibility of being the Vice President and General Manager of WRGB-TV, WGY-AM, and WGY-FM. He was named "Broadcaster of the Year" in 1991 by the New York State Broadcasters Association (NYSBA), and as a Director of the organization as well as Chairman of the NYSBA's Legislative Committee.
Funeral services for Delmonico will be held Tuesday at Blessed Sacrament Church in Syracuse, NY. Donations to the Broadcasters Foundation can be made in Jim Delmonico?s name at www.broadcastersfoundation.org, or by contacting 212-373-8250 or info@thebfoa.org.
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