Arizona Media Legends Set to Take Center Stage in a Spectacular Tribute

The Arizona Media Association, in collaboration with the Arizona Local News Foundation, has announced 13 distinguished local honorees to be celebrated at the upcoming 2025 Arizona Media Icon Lunch. This significant event will take place on April 22, 2025, at the JW Marrriott Camelback Inn in Scottsdale, hosting over 500 attendees.

Among the most prestigious accolades presented at the lunch is the Arizona Media Hall of Fame Award. This honor recognizes individuals who have made transformative contributions to Arizona’s media landscape over the decades. The 2025 inductees include:

• Howard Fischer – Arizona Capital Media Services
• Kim Komando – Kim Komando Radio
• Lupita Murillo – Retired, KVOA-TV Tucson
• Royal Norman – Chief Meteorologist, 3TV/CBS5 Phoenix

In addition, the Arizona Media Board Chair Award acknowledges a community leader whose significant impact extends beyond media. For 2025, the recipient is:

• Buddy Owens – Recording artist, radio personality

The Arizona Media Association Lifetime Service Award celebrates individuals with a dedicated career in the media, recognizing over 35 years of service, including at least 15 years in Arizona. The 2025 honorees are:

• Dr. John E. Craft – Professor Emeritus, ASU’s Cronkite School
• Michael Dixon – Talk show host & movie critic across Arizona
• Bob Glasco – Semi-retired, former leadership roles at KSED, KOLT Country
• Ian Macspadden – Chief Technology Officer, Arizona Public Media
• Paul Maryniak – Executive Editor, Times Media Group
• Tom Peake – Music Director, KOOL-FM
• Rich Reid – Retired, Cox YurView AZ Market Manager
• Karl Voss – Chief Engineer, KAET-TV

Biographies of the honorees can be accessed through the Arizona Media Association’s website. All proceeds from this luncheon will benefit the Arizona Local News Foundation, and ticket purchases are tax-deductible. Sponsorship opportunities are available by contacting Nate Kelly at nate@azmedia.org.

This year, the Arizona Media Association received a record number of nominations, highlighting the competitive nature of the selection process. To nominate an outstanding media professional for the 2026 awards, visit the Arizona Media Association’s nomination page. For media inquiries, reach out to Jen Musa at jen@azmedia.org.