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Next time you're in the car, tune into WWPT Wreckers Radio at 90.3-FM. Last month, it was named second-best high school station in the country out of 125 high schools, an honor that makes Staples High School seniors and station executives DJ Sixsmith and Eric Gallanty extremely proud.
At the 2010 John Drury High School Radio Awards, both DJ and Eric walked away with several awards. But as devoted four-year station members, having WWPT named second best in the country was unparalleled.
"It credits so many hardworking people," said DJ. "Our advisers, Mike Zito and Jim Honeycutt, have done a nice job of propelling us in a positive direction. We even finished ahead of the school that, for years, came in first place: They were a little shocked by that, but it shows what we've been able to accomplish in a short amount of time."
DJ and Eric both received two "Best in the Nation" awards. And together, the aspiring broadcasters shared two "third in the Nation" awards.
But according to Eric, even individual awards are a credit to the entire station.
"It's really a reflection on all the people at the station and how it's progressed," Eric said. "Yes, it's our stuff, but it's the whole station that's gotten us to the point where we have the ability to do what we do."
Although being recognized nationally is memorable, DJ and Eric said it's a secondary perk of being involved with the radio station. The best part is the friendships they've made and the recognition they receive from peers and community members.
"People will say, 'It's unbelievable you've been recognized for all this,' but what's more important to us is the experiences we've had and the friendships we've made," DJ said. "We love it here. We're really fortunate to be a part of something so special."
Have you listened to WWPT radio? What do you like about it? Leave a comment below or start a conversation on our Facebook page.
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