WAKA Wins Two ABBY Awards from Alabama Broadcasters

Local TV station recognized for excellence in news feature and community service

Apr. 12, 2026 at 2:20pm

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An abstract, geometric composition of overlapping black silhouettes in shades of blue, red, and white, representing the concept of a local TV news station receiving industry accolades.WAKA's award-winning news coverage and community service projects are celebrated in a striking, minimalist visual metaphor.Today in Birmingham

WAKA Action 8 News has been honored with two ABBY Awards from the Alabama Broadcasters Association, winning for Best News Feature and Best Service Project. The news feature highlighted Auburn University's Raptor Center and the tradition of releasing an eagle before home football games, while the service project award went to WAKA's long-running 'Tickled Pink' breast cancer awareness campaign.

Why it matters

The ABBY Awards are considered the premier event for broadcasters in Alabama, recognizing excellence in local TV news and community engagement. WAKA's wins demonstrate the station's commitment to impactful storytelling and supporting important causes in their coverage area.

The details

The Best News Feature award went to a story produced by WAKA Anchor/Reporter Justin Walker and Chief Photographer Bill Gill, highlighting Auburn's eagle release tradition. The Best Service Project award recognized WAKA's 'Tickled Pink' breast cancer awareness campaign, which includes news coverage, a survivor makeover, a parade, and a month-long station commitment each October.

  • The awards were presented at the Alabama Broadcasters Association's annual gala in Birmingham on April 11, 2026.
  • The 'Tickled Pink' campaign marked its 11th year in 2025.

The players

WAKA Action 8 News

A local TV news station serving central Alabama.

Justin Walker

WAKA Anchor/Reporter who co-anchors Action 8 News Rising.

Bill Gill

WAKA's longtime Chief Photographer, a 10-year veteran of the station.

Cancer Wellness Foundation

A non-profit organization that helps patients facing many types of cancer in 32 counties.

Alabama Broadcasters Association

A statewide organization that supports TV and radio stations with training, networking, and advocacy.

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The takeaway

WAKA's ABBY Award wins highlight the station's commitment to impactful journalism and community engagement, reinforcing its position as a trusted news source for central Alabama viewers over its 66-year history.