USA - PLASA has presented the 2013 Frank Stewart Volunteer of the Year Award to Paul Rabinovitz for his work with the Business Peer Group Program, and to the members of the Technical Standards Program's E1.21 Task Group for their work on the newest version of the American National Standard for Temporary Ground-Supported Overhead Structures Used To Cover Stage Areas and Support Equipment in the Production of Outdoor Entertainment Events.

The award to Paul, owner of PRMi Consulting, was presented by Steven Way, a member of the Peer Group and President of ALPS / Advanced Lighting & Production Services. Paul was instrumental in helping develop the details of the Peer Group Program in 2008. He has since stayed on as the group's "parental unit," as they affectionately refer to

USA - PLASA presented its highest honour, the Eva Swan Award, to Rocky Paulson at its annual Cocktails and Awards Reception the evening before LDI. The Swan Award, which is presented only when there is a worthy recipient nominated, is presented to a member who has put forth exceptional efforts in time, expertise and personal resources on behalf of PLASA; been instrumental in shaping and promoting the strategic direction of the Association; made major contributions to the realization of the mission, goals and objectives; and enhanced the value of membership for all.

The award was prese

Eurovision Latest - Serbia has pulled out of next year's Eurovision Song Contest in Copenhagen, citing financial difficulties. The country's broadcaster said the "high costs necessary to participate" had led to the decision. Serbia won Eurovision in 2007 with the song Molitva by Marija Serifovic, but failed to qualify for the grand final in Malmo, Sweden this year. Other countries have also said they will sit out next year's competition, including Serbia's neighbour Croatia. Bulgaria and Cyprus will not be taking part either, with all four nations' broadcasters saying i

Switzerland - Systems integrator, SLG Broadcast (SLG), has provided a complete broadcast centre for Radio 24's new complex in Zurich, including IP-capable fit-out of two broadcasting studios, a layout-studio, a stage, 24 editors' workplaces and integration of the station's OB vehicle.

Regarded as a "most modern studio" at the beginning of the 1990s, the privately operated radio station had outgrown its old location by 2012, and was no longer at the cutting edge of technology. Since then, the 'Löwenbräu' Area of Zurich has provided an ideal new space - not more than 1200ft

USA - PLASA has announced the winners of the 2013 Members' Choice Awards presented on Saturday, 23 November at the LDI and PLASA Awards Ceremony .The awards recognised newly released outstanding entertainment technology products. Voting on these awards was open to all employees of PLASA member companies who attended the LDI show.

Awarded in the Expendable Category was the Nano Spot by Darklight. As the smallest and more affordable LED spotlight on the market, members were pleased with its small size as well as the easily adjustable swivel head.

In the Gadget Category, members awarde

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