Oklahoma Reporter Receives First-Ever National Award for Fair, Balanced and Informative Reporting on Transportation-Related Issues

FREDERICKSBURG, Va., Feb. 24, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Bryan Painter, a 20-year veteran of the Oklahoman newspaper, was presented the first prestigious American Traffic Safety Services (ATSSA) National Media Award today during the association's 43^rd Annual Convention and Traffic Expo in San Diego, Calif. Painter was nominated for the award by the Oklahoma Department of Transportation for fair, balanced and informative reporting on transportation-related issues.

"We consider Mr. Painter a valuable asset and partner of the Oklahoma Department of Transportation (DOT)," said Oklahoma DOT Chief of Media and Public Relations Terri Angier. "Mr. Painter helps bring important transportation and safety issues to light for the motoring public and also helps reinforce our agency's unwavering commitment to transportation and work zone safety."

"I also commend ATSSA and its vision for providing this forum which further promotes safety of the public and highlights exceptional safety reporting at the same time," added Angier

In 2012, ATSSA's Board of Directors approved the new national media award to recognize a reporter or a news organization that has been fair, balanced and informative in reporting transportation-related issues on radio, television, in a newspaper, or on the web.

Through the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials, state DOT public affairs offices were asked to submit their nominations to ATSSA to compete for the award. From those nominations, the association's Safety and Public Awareness Committee selected three finalists, and during their November meeting, the ATSSA Board of Directors selected Painter as the winner.

"ATSSA is proud to recognize such a dedicated and professional journalist who is committed to advancing roadway safety on Oklahoma's roadways and in roadway work zones," said ATSSA President and Chief Executive Officer Roger Wentz. "Mr. Painter sets the example for the nation as an exceptional transportation reporter, and the roadway safety industry congratulates him on this impressive accomplishment in his career."

ATSSA, an international trade association, is located in Fredericksburg, Va. Since 1969, ATSSA has represented companies and individuals in the traffic control and roadway safety industry. Over 1,600 ATSSA members provide the majority of features, services and devices used to make our nation's roadways safer. These include pavement markings, road signs, work zone traffic control devices, guardrail, and other roadside safety features.

On the web: ATSSA.com

Contact: James Scott Baron (540) 847-2800

SOURCE American Traffic Safety Services Association (ATSSA)