2008 Syracuse Ad Club Crystal Prism Award

Fran McGrath started his radio career as a top 40 disc jockey at WNDR 1260 AM in 1963. WNDR, the dominant rock station in the 1960s and 1970s, was one of the last radio stations in the country where on-air personalities also sold advertising. In addition to sales Fran was on air from 5 to 7 a.m., hosted an afternoon show from 5 to 6 p.m., and delivered the evening and Saturday morning news. During this period Fran became a stockholder in 93Q and assumed the role of sales manager for both stations.

Fran became a founding member of the Syracuse Ad Club, and during this time he joined his friend and long-time radio partner, George Plavocos, to do a new morning show. In 1980 Fran ended his on-air career and became general manager of both stations.

In 1983 Fran joined the late Charlie McCann at Signet Advertising, which later became Latorra, Paul & McCann Advertising. Fran managed several retail accounts throughout his agency career, but he was best known for his work with the New York State Fair. During this 24-year partnership LP&M won several national awards, and the Fair set more than 30 grandstand and attendance records, including attracting over one million visitors.

Fran retired from LP&M in November 2007 after 45 years of service in the Syracuse advertising and media communities.