ABILENE, Texas (KTAB/KRBC) – The Texas Association of Broadcasters has named KTAB/KRBC-TV the recipient of the 2026 Bonner McLane Public Service Award in the Small Television category.

The award recognizes Texas radio and television stations for exceptional service and contributions to their local communities. It is named after Bonner McLane, TAB’s first executive director, who died in 1987.

“We are always proud to be part of Nexstar Media’s annual Founder’s Day and grateful the Texas Association of Broadcasters has recognized our work,” said Danny Sims, project manager and director of promotions and special projects for KTAB/KRBC-TV.

TAB announced the winners ahead of the 2026 TAB Show, scheduled for Aug. 5-6 at the Kalahari Convention Center in Round Rock.

KTAB/KRBC earned the recognition last June in part for its 2025 Day of Caring partnership with the Abilene Independent School District’s Summer Meals Program, local YMCAs, and Boys & Girls Clubs.

Employees from KTAB, KRBC, and Telemundo Abilene volunteered during the initiative, helping pack and serve meals to children throughout the community while also participating in activities including basketball, dancing, reading, cookie decorating, table games, and billiards.

In total, 48 employees volunteered during the event, helping serve more than 500 children. The partnership also included collaboration with the National Center for Children’s Illustrated Literature, where children received free books from author Dav Pilkey.

Sims said the partnership highlighted the impact local organizations can make when working together to support families during the summer months.

“AISD and the Boys & Girls Club do so much to support children and families during the summer months, and this project was a tremendous partnership,” Sims said.

KTAB/KRBC was recognized alongside several major Texas broadcast outlets, including WFAA-TV in Dallas-Fort Worth and Nexstar sister station KETK-TV in Tyler-Longview.

“Where else could television station employees spend one afternoon having so much fun while also helping feed 500 kids?” Sims said. “We are honored to receive TAB’s Bonner McLane Public Service Award, and we absolutely loved partnering with AISD, the Boys & Girls Club, and all those amazing kids.”

The Bonner McLane submission was produced by Manny Diaz and photographed by Travis Corrigan.

Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTAB – BigCountryHomepage.com.