As part of the ninth annual March of Dimes A.I.R. Awards, former Milwaukee reporter and on-air personality Duane Gay will be posthumously awarded the 2006 Lifetime Achievement Award to commemorate his significant contributions to the world of journalism. This year's March of Dimes A.I.R. Awards will be held February 16, 2006 at the Northern Lights Theater at Potawatomi Bingo & Casino.

A graduate of University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, Gay got his start in journalism as a radio reporter at WIZM in La Crosse, WLPX in Milwaukee and WYTL and WOSH in Oshkosh before becoming news director at Milwaukee's WVTV-TV in 1988. Gay then joined WISN-TV in 1993 as a general assignment reporter, where he became widely known for his weekly "It's Your Money" and "The Inside Story" segments.

After being diagnosed in 1990 with a rare form of soft tissue cancer Gay decided to share his story and battle with viewers. Through his unique storytelling skills, Gay brought his battle with cancer to the public on WISN-TV and helped build awareness of the disease while inspiring a multitude of viewers. At age 49 Gay lost his 13-year battle with cancer on Tuesday, April 26, 2005.

For more information on attending the A.I.R. Awards or the March of Dimes, please visit marchofdimes.com or call (414) 778-3500.