wfn.org | Radio spots take top WorldFest award

[NewsDesk <NewsDesk@UMCOM.UMC.ORG>]

April 13, 1999 News media contact: Tim Tanton*(615)742-5470*Nashville, Tenn.
10-71B{202}

By Nancye M. Willis*

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS) - A radio resource produced by United Methodist
Communications (UMCom) received a Gold Award during the 31st Annual
WorldFest-Houston International Film Festival. 

"Civility," a series of 30- and 60-second radio public-service announcements
(PSAs), becomes the fourth consecutive UMCom-produced radio resource to take
the top awards as best radio ad.
UMCom's "Move On" PSAs received a Gold Award in 1998; "take 5" PSAs, a 1997
Gold Award; and its "Passages" 90-second radio series won the 1996 Grand
Award.

More than 4,000 entries from around the world were judged at the 10-day
event, held during mid-April. Officials claim WorldFest is the largest and
oldest continuous event of its kind.

The "Civility" spots' format combines revival-gospel, rock and opera music
with "character" voices, including Surfer Dude, Proper Brit and Harried
Preppie, to treat everyday situations including road rage, supermarket
courtesy and respect for others' opinions.
 
" 'Civility' took more than a year to complete, and it was anyone's guess if
it would succeed," said Bill Wolfe, director of UMCom's radio ministries
unit. "But we thought it would have to be a bit strange to be heard,
especially dealing with the subject of being nice to strangers. We believe
its acceptance has more to do with the validity of Jesus' teachings on the
subject, on which the radio spots are based." 
# # #
*Willis is promotional resources coordinator in United Methodist
Communications' Public Media Marketing unit.

______________
United Methodist News Service
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