Malaspina amplified local news by spotlighting community businesses, launching partnerships involving its show “The East End” with Discover Long Island while encouraging reporting that has spurred legislative changes. Her team’s work received 95 New York Emmy nominations this year. With over 20 years in media, Malaspina fosters industry diversity as executive sponsor of Optimum’s ERG HER Impact and mentors young talent across the company.

“I believe local news is and needs to be the next industry disruption. Local news is the heartbeat of our communities, and our viewers rely on us every day to stay updated. At News 12, we are constantly innovating and redefining what local news is, all with the viewers and local tri-state communities in mind.”

What female artist has dominated your playlists this year? Like so many others, Taylor Swift! In fact, News 12 recently completed a new initiative, #News12Friends, inspired by the friendship bracelet trend started by Taylor Swift fans. We handed out “I <3 News 12” friendship bracelets across the New York Tri-state area, and for each bracelet we handed out, we donated to support classroom music projects in the area. News 12 donated nearly $80,000!

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