Heart of America Awards 2011

HM: Mará Rose Williams, The City Star, “Community Print, above 50,000 daily Colleges = Life Blood.” Deadline Reporting HM: Peter Rugg, The Pitch, “Field of Dirty Dreams.” Gold: Mará Rose Williams and Christine Vendel, , “Penn Valley Attack.” Riveting account of a terrifying event on a Profile Gold: college campus. Great detail and impressive number of sources. Sarah Benson, The Kansas City Star, “Peregrine’s Reality.” Silver: Tim Potter and Deb Gruver, The Wichita Eagle, “Armed Engagingly written. Silver: Veteran.” Sara Benson, The Kansas City Star, “Ghost Huntin with Bronze: Christine Vendel , Tony Rizzo and Mark Morris, The Tech N9ne.” Bronze: Kansas City Star, “Waldo Rapist.” Joe Tone, The Pitch, “The Prince of Right.” General Reporting Sports Writing Gold: Carolyn Szczepanski, The Pitch, “Screwed.”A tremendous Gold: Brent Maycock and Ann Williamson, Topeka Capital- amount of reporting combined with pointed storytelling make this the Journal, “A Sign of Greatness.” This well-written article is the best in clear winner. its class. The writers contrast the loud sounds of a football game with Silver: Brian Burnes, The Kansas City Star, “Randy Stone/David the silent hand signals needed to communicate to a key player – who is Love.” deaf. The article also includes good quotations and interesting details. Bronze: Nadia Pflumm, The Pitch, “Banned.” Silver: David Martin, The Pitch, “Head Cases.”Martin’s in-depth HM: Lee Hill Kavanaugh, The Kansas City Star, “That Jeep Being look at the treatment of head injuries in sports examines whether doc- Chased.” tors, coaches and players are correctly assessing the potential deadly con- Business Reporting sequences of concussions and brain damage. It’s a timely and important topic well worth the coverage. Gold: Rob Roberts, Kansas City Business Journal, “The Domino Bronze: Rick Peterson, Topeka Capital-Journal, “A Taxing Situa- Effect.” Excellent, well-presented package on a complex topic. Compre- tion.” This story begins with a great lead: “Colby Cooper loves to run. hensive approach increases its effectiveness. He refuses to hide.” And then it explains how a star athlete strives to be Silver: Mandy Oaklander, The Pitch, “Fleecing the Flock.” successful while simultaneously dealing with the failings of his father, Bronze: Jan Biles, Topeka Capital-Journal, “Rural Grocery Stores.” who is serving a 20-year prison term. HM: Roy Wenzl, The Wichita Eagle, “Recession-proof plan.” HM: Tim Carpenter, Topeka Capital-Journal, “Tax increase di- Photojournalism vides chamber.” Gold: Steve Fry, Topeka Capital-Journal, “Dover Intruder.” Dra- Investigative Reporting matic courtroom scene vividly captured as defendant lifts shirt to show Gold: Staff, The Kansas City Star, “Trouble in Jayhawk Nation.” scars from accidental police shooting. Reporters dug into a story and through open records requests, interviews Silver: Chris Oberholtz, The Kansas City Star, “Cars Everywhere.” and dogged research, shed light on a far-reaching scandal. Bronze: Tammy Ljungblad, The Kansas City Star, “Fallen Hero.” Silver: Peter Rugg, The Pitch, “Public Disservice.” Photojournalism Feature Bronze: Dion Lefler, The Wichita Eagle, “State Task Force.” Gold: Tammy Ljungblad, The Kansas City Star, “Procession.”Poi - HM: Tim Carpenter, Topeka Capital-Journal, “Post-Traumatic gnant photograph that captures the sadness of a tragic event. Stress Disorder.” Silver: Forester Michael, The Pitch, “The Illustrated Chef.” Feature Bronze: Chris Oberholtz, The Kansas City Star, “Hello Bear.” Gold: Roy Wenzl, The Wichita Eagle, “Promise Not to Tell.”Sim - ply amazing. Great story, great reporting and kudos to The Eagle for Editorial giving it the space it deserves. Gold: Fred Johnson, Topeka Capital-Journal. Johnson does a great Silver: Judy Thomas, The Kansas City Star, “Inmate Freed.”Very job explaining why the country’s financial settlement with a former good storytelling about a woman’s pursuit of the truth.” district attorney may be the right decision, but not the best possible Bronze: : Aaron Barnhart, The Kansas City Star.Great research and outcome. He uses numbers, logic and analysis to provide a clear point of reporting about the reality TV era. view for readers. Silver: Brian Kaberline, The Kansas City Business Journal, “Schools Bronze: Cindy Hodel, The Kansas City Star, “Life Coach.” Well First doesn’t make the grade.” When is a proposal to help schools more done. Takes a good look at how sports can be a good influence and how about a political campaign than educational improvements? That’s one person can make things happen. the question Kaberline explores in this editorial, with him ultimately concluding that politics wins out. Print, below 50,000 daily Bronze: Brian Kaberline, The Kansas City Business Journal, “All Deadline Reporting Missourians will lose if Proposition A wins.” In this editorial, Gold: Jack “Miles” Ventimiglia, The Warrensburg Daily Star-Jour- Kaberline pushes voters to look beyond their short-term interests and do nal, “Fire Takes House.” Good grab of all the right people at the scene what’s best ultimately for themselves, the community and the future. A to have a comprehensive breaking-news story. strong editorial page values long-term goals, even when seductive and Silver: Matthew Steingraber, TheSedalia Democrat, “Helicopter superficial short-term answers seem more appealing. Crash Landing.” Straight forward account of events. News Column Bronze: Jeff Haldiman, Gerry Tritz, Jefferson City News-Tribune, Gold: David Martin, The Pitch.These columns include a perfect bal- “Gunman kills three.” Untangling all the elements of this story for the ance of solid reporting and authoritative voice, making for an informa- reader, smartly producing a main story and sidebar. tive yet provocative read. HM: Tonya Fennell, The Sedalia Democrat, “Slaying Suspect Ar- Silver: Mike Hendricks, The Kansas City Star. rested.” Bronze: Mary Sanchez, The Kansas City Star. General Reporting Non-news Column Gold: Jack “Miles” Ventimiglia, Daily Star-Journal, “Blunt/Carnah-

Gold: David Chartrand, The Kansas City Star, “One Dog’s an.” Bare-fisted account of political forum. Refreshingly tells it like it is. Silver: Dream.” David uses a unique approach to tell poignant stories. “One Jack “Miles” Ventimiglia, Daily Star-Journal, “Haiti.” Bright Big Dream” brought judge to tears. writing. Good to keep this in front of the community. Bronze: Silver: Charles Ferruzza, The Pitch. Sue Sterling, Daily Star-Journal, “Hip recall.” Solid infor- Bronze: Tony Rizzo, The Kansas City Star. mation, well presented. HM: Jack “Miles” Ventimiglia, Daily Star-Journal, “Session Ends.” Entertainment Business Reporting Gold: Grace Suh, The Pitch, “Free as her words.”This teaches read- Gold: Jack “Miles” Ventimiglia, Daily Star-Journal, “Ford.” Good ers about set design and narrative as it reviews “Harriet Jacobs.” coverage of important story. Silver: Grace Suh, The Pitch, “Gore Galore.”From the simile in the Silver: Matthew Steingraber, Sedalia Democrat, “Special Deliver- lead to the double entendre in the conclusion, this review is clever and ies.” illuminating. Bronze: Jack “Miles” Ventimiglia, Daily Star-Journal, “Prop B.” Bronze: Grace Suh, The Pitch, “Faith Matters.”The solid example of theatre criticism explains the difficulty of working with a weak script. Investigative Reporting Gold: Jeff Holdiman, Gerry Fritz, Rosa Ruiz, Jefferson City News- Beat Reporting Tribune, “A Lack of Evidence.” A thorough examination of a high- Gold: Deb Grover, The Wichita Eagle, “Jail Crowding.” Excellent profile case involving politics, the law and questions of favoritism. example of how persistent reporting can effect change. Silver: Jack “Miles” Ventimiglia, Daily Star-Journal, “Show Me Silver: Steve Vockrodt, Kansas City Business Journal, “Govern- Justice.” Good deadline story that hits the high points of a last-minute ment.” decision to pull funding. Bronze: Alan Scher Zagier, Associated Press, “Business of College Bronze: Gerry Tritz, Jefferson City News-Tribune, “Patient Left to Sports.” Pay ER Bills.” Public Service Project Feature Gold: Jan Biles, Topeka Capital-Journal, “We Think Pink.”This Gold: Dennis Rich, The Sedalia Democrat, “A Coffee Pot Full of remarkable in-depth examination of breast cancer from multiple per- Memories.” The collapse of downtown buildings prompts a fun look spectives is a huge public service. into the past. Silver: Laura Bauer, The Kansas City Star, “Childhood Hunger.” Silver: Adrianne DeWeese, The Examiner, “Special Olympics flag This series uses anecdotes, statistics and analysis about hungry children football.” Lively account of Special Olympians. Some great quotes. to raise support for Harvesters’ Backsnack program. Bronze: Tonya Fennell, The Sedalia Democrat, “The Hero of Her Bronze: Lee Hill Kavanaugh, The Kansas City Star, “House by Family.” A bright story headed to a dark ending in this story of a House, Dog Lady Brings Creatures Comfort.” Part angel, part en- 2-year-old with leukemia. forcer, Kate Quigley spends her days looking out for animals in need of HM: Jack “Miles” Ventimiglia, Daily Star-Journal, “Moon and care. This story of a day in her life is enthralling -- and instructive. back.” HM: Lee Hill Kavanaugh, The Kansas City Star, “Survivors of Rape Profile Face Long Recovery.” Gold: Adrianne DeWeese, The Examiner, “Mother’s Love.”A ten- Magazine Story der, insightful story that is rich in detail and emotion. Gold: Nadia Pflaum, The Pitch, “Who’s Afraid of Markus Lee?” Silver: Dennis Rich, The Sedalia Democrat, “Doing Something.” Wow! That’s a gutsy interview and an amazingly compelling article. An interesting chronicle of one woman’s busy life. Couldn’t put it down. Great work. Bronze: Adrianne DeWeese, The Examiner, “Just Like Dad.” Silver: Sarah Benson, The Kansas City Star, “Turning Points.”Inter - esting mix of people and life-changing events. A very compelling read; Sports writing these stories are given dignity. Gold: Michelle Brooks, The Jefferson City News Tribune, “Skating on Air.” The writer uses good details and descriptions to introduce read- ignored by legislative whim. The conclusion -- that voting is a waste of ers to a local synchronized skating team that wins awards with style time -- may be too harsh. If so, then it’s up to the General Assembly to and precision. The article also includes information about the skaters’ provide evident that it’s wrong. parents, who are a very important component of youth sports teams. Silver: Jack “Miles” Ventimiglia, The Warrensburg Daily Star- Silver: Kyle Smith, The Sedalia Democrat, “Years in the Making.” Journal, “Hospital Policy.” Ventimiglia finishes first and second in this Smith discovered that the beginnings of a championship softball season category because both editorials have similar strengths. This editorial, began 10 years earlier on a T-ball field, and his story explains the dedi- which challenges absurd hospital board policies, provides a devastating cation, determination and shared commitment for three girls who were review of the language and meaning behind some of the board’s provi- crucial to the team’s success. Excellent work. sions to muzzle and inhibit board members. Bronze: Seth Stringer, The Sedalia Democrat, “Maiden Voyage.” Bronze: Richard McGonegal, Jefferson City News Tribune, “Coun- Stringer observes how the winning team celebrates a big victory and cil Urged to Investigate.” McGonegal takes on top city leaders by uses his observations to explain how a coach teaches this team to be calling for a much-needed investigation into questionable actions after winners on and off the court. the city administrator was involved in a possible hit-and-run accident. The writer offers thoughtful analysis with a call for action. Photojournalism, breaking news Gold: Sydney Brink, The Sedalia Democrat, “Lucky Dog.”Excel - News Column lent. Fire fighting photos are always dramatic, but I think it’s moments Gold: Jack “Miles” Ventimiglia, The Warrensburg Daily Star- like this that show the human/emotional story. Journal. Relevant, challenging columns on the news of the day. The Silver: Jack “Miles” Ventimiglia, Daily Star-Journal, “Fiery Wreck.” columnist isn’t afraid to ruffle some feathers. Nicely done. Not a typical fire photo. Getting dramatic house/building fire shots is Silver: Bob Satnan, The Sedalia Democrat.Strong columns. The good, but the timing of this -- with the driver in the background -- is piece on a grieving family is the type of work only community papers much harder to hit. Would have been to have stood more to the can provide. Good work. left to reduce space. Non-News Column Bronze: Amanda Lubinski, Daily Star-Journal, “Five Destroys Gold: Jack “Miles” Ventimiglia, The Warrensburg Daily Star- House.” I’m not entirely sure why I like this one over more drama, but Journal. Very readable and funny. These columns cover a wide range of it’s the billowing smoke and showing the firefighters putting himself in topics. position that is obviously dangerous. Silver: Bob Satnan, The Sedalia Democrat.Well-reported and HM: Wendy Nugent, Newton Kansan, “Blaze Damages Fox Mead- insightful. The column about a Vietnam veteran judged by his ponytail ows.” Don’t often see internal damage after a fire. Nice job. is spot-on. HM: Steven Brooks, The Jefferson City News Tribune, “Fire Entertainment Destroys Home.” Had the two firefighters in the foreground not been Gold: Adrianne DeWeese, The Examiner, “Finding Her Courage.” there, this could have won first place. Excellent try. Partly about adversity and partly about creativity, this in-depth profile Photojournalism, feature of mixed media artist Folicia Roth is engaging from start to finish. Gold: Sydney Brink, The Sedalia Democrat, “By the Overalls.”This Silver: Bob Satnan, The Sedalia Democrat, “Road Warrior.”TNA photo goes beyond action or reaction to capture a moment of interaction wrestler A.J. Styles discusses life as an entertainer on the road in this -- with humor! very interesting article. Silver: Amanda Lubinsky, Daily Star-Journal, “No Prisoners.” Bronze: Gary Tritz, The Jefferson City News Tribune, “That’s Justin Bronze: Steven Brooks, The Jefferson City News Tribune, “A Moto- Kredible.” The stage magician’s shift to TV host unfolds nicely in the cross Race Starts.” well-told story. HM: Jack “Miles” Ventimiglia, The Warrensburg Daily Star-Jour- HM: John Hansen, The Sedalia Democrat, “Are We Human or Are nal, “Drummer Boy.” We Dancer?” HM: Jack “Miles” Ventimiglia, The Warrensburg Daily Star-Jour- Beat Reporting nal, “Sideways.” Gold: Jack “Miles” Ventimiglia, Daily Star-Journal, “Education.” Very comprehensive reporting on an important issue. Photojournalism, sports Silver: Matthew Stengraber, The Sedalia Democrat. Nice start to fin- Gold: Stephen Brooks, The Jefferson City News Tribune, “Kristin ish coverage of an issue that affects taxpayers. Burnett Flattens the Ball.” Wow! Talk about capturing real power. Bronze: Dennis Rich, The Sedalia Democrat, “Prosecuting At- Who knew you could flatten a volleyball like this? torney Race.” Silver: Stephen Brooks, The Jefferson City News Tribune, “Morris Henderson Reaches Out.” Public Service Bronze: Kelley McCall, The Jefferson City News Tribune, “Caught Gold: Christina Jannehy and Wendy Nugent, Newton Kansan, in a Webb.” “Fighting Suicide.” This in-depth series tells poignant stories -- some HM: Jack “Miles” Ventimiglia, Daily Star-Journal, “Double Take submitted by readers -- and pertinent statistics, including the 65 Down.” percent cut in state funding for county mental health treatment and the HM: Hal Smith, The Sedalia Democrat, “Interception.” rise in suicide rates. Silver: Staff, The Daily Star-Journal, County Jail.”The Daily Star- Editorial Journal’s continuous, detailed examination of this hazardous jail led to Gold: Jack “Miles” Ventimiglia, The Warrensburg Daily Star-Jour- one conclusion: pass a tax to fix the problem. Voters did just that. nal, “Voters Speak.” The winning entry is clear, concise and direct. It Bronze: Staff, The Sedalia Democrat, “Untied Way Agencies.” makes a compelling argument that the views of the voters are routinely Nicely written human interest stories, combined with an editorial about the value of the United Way, helped a campaign exceed its goal. dropout who is headed for the engineering program at Kansas State in HM: Angie Hutschreider, The Jefferson City News Tribune, the fall. “Honor Flight.” Silver: Miranda Wycoff, Lee’s Summit Journal, “A Witness to HM: Ben Yarnell, Angie Hutschreider and Jeff Haldiman, The Jef- History.” An interview with Mary Hicks, Coretta Scott King’s cousin, ferson City News Tribune, “Youth Violence.” netted illuminating recollections of struggles in Jim Crow south. Bronze: Debra DeCoster, KC Hispanic News, “Frank Martin Magazine Story Speaks about his Humble Beginnings.’” An interview reveals the mo- Gold: Jack “Miles” Ventimiglia, The Warrensburg Daily Star-Jour- tivation behind Kansas State basketball coach Frank Martin’s success. nal, “Miles to Go.” Entertaining writing style. HM: Stephen Bubalo, Lee’s Summit Journal, “Changing a Cul- Silver: Latiska Koetting, The Sedalia Democrat, “Remembering ture.” Those Who Gave All.” Bronze: Amanda Lubinski, Daily Star-Journal, “Goodbye Alex.” Sports Writing Gold: Mark Dewar, Johnson County Sun, “BVNW Athlete’s Print, non-daily Suicide.” A difficult story to write that was handled with care and compassion. Deadline Reporting Silver: Stephen Bubalo, Lee’s Summit Journal, “Decisions, Deci- Gold: Miranda Wycoff, Lee’s Summit Journal, “Body Found.”A sions.” solid deadline story about a tragic accident. Bronze: Stephen Bubalo, Lee’s Summit Journal, “New Team, Same Silver: Debbie VanPelt, Lee’s Summit Tribune, “Woman Dies in Spiegel.” Fire.” Bronze: Emily Jarrett, Lee’s Summit Journal, “Truck, Train Col- Photojournalism, breaking news lide.” Gold: Julie Scheidegger, Lee’s Summit Journal, “Rainy Rollover.” The expression on the driver’s face tells us the story, as his car fills the General Reporting background of the image. Good composition. Gold: Very well Emily Jarrett, Lee’s Summit Journal, “CIT series.” Silver: Julie Scheidegger, Lee’s Summit Journal, “Rollover.” Nice job organized, goes the extra mile to explain a new police program and capturing moment of action. humanizes its impact in the community. Most would have just stopped Bronze: Emily Jarrett, Lee’s Summit Journal, “Truck Vs. Train.” at the explanations. Silver: Katie Leibsle, etc. al, Thinking Bigger Business Media, Photojournalism, feature “Transferring New Technologies.” An interesting take on what really Gold: Julie Scheidegger, Lee’s Summit Journal, “Tea Party Protest.” could have been a dry business story. Loved the lede about Gatorade. Borderline brilliant. The face of the Tea Party. This photo won hands Bronze: Allen Edmonds, The Star-Herald, “Murdered Baby’s down! Mother.” Very sensitive take on the horrors of such a senseless crime. Silver: Julie Scheidegger, Blue Springs Journal, “Wall That Heals.” Goes beyond just the reporting of facts. Bronze: Julie Scheidegger, Lee’s Summit Journal, “Pretty in Pink.” HM: Julie Scheidegger, Lee’s Summit Journal, “Family Mourns HM: Mary Rupert, Wyandotte Daily News, “Lineman’s Rodeo.” Teen.” Another good example of going beyond just the facts of a tragic story. Nice job on getting lots of quotes. Photojournalism, sports HM: Miranda Wycoff and Emily Jarrett, Lee’s Summit Journal, Gold: Stephen Bubalo, Lee’s Summit Journal, “Tower of Power.” “Crossing Guard.” Very well-told story about a much-needed solution. Intense is the word to describe the moment of sports action. Keep your eye on the ball? Apparently not! Business Reporting Silver: Julie Scheidegger, Lee’s Summit Journal, “One in the Gold: Miranda Wycoff, Lee’s Summit Journal, “For Christmas.”A Hand.” Beautiful photo. solid business story. The reporter did a good job on contacting a rival for Bronze: Julie Scheidegger, Lee’s Summit Journal, “Interception.” this business. Good action photo. Silver: Mary Rupert, Wyandotte Daily News, “Smoking Ban.” Editorial Investigative Reporting Gold: Bob Sigman, The Johnson County Sun, “Disabled.” Very well Gold: Chuck Kurtz, The Johnson County Sun: “Local Impact.”A presented, documented and reasoned. This presents the facts in human thorough series of stories that shed light on a complex issue. form and shows that a reasonable solution exists. Great job! Silver: Debra DeCoster, KC Hispanic News, “Westside Residents News Column Tell School District.” Gold: Bob Sigman, The Johnson County Sun, “Tragedy in Law.” Bronze: Miranda Wycoff, Lee’s Summit Journal, “Mayor Absentee Clearly relays complex issues and keeps reader engaged. Rate.” Silver: John Beaudoin, Lee’s Summit Journal, “It’s News to Me.” Feature Bronze: Mary Rupert, Wyandotte Daily News, “Windows on the Gold: Chuck Kurtz, Johnson County Sun, “Ukrainian Gains Vi- West.” sion.” Well-told story of sight restored. Non-news Column Silver: Julie Scheidegger, Lee’s Summit Journal, “Wall that Heals.” Gold: Betsy Lee, St. Joseph News Press-Kin Magazine, “The Parent- Bronze: Emily Jarrett, Lee’s Summit Journal: “All in the Family.” \ ing Plunge.” Engaging writing style and original, amusing anecdotes. HM: Miranda Wycoff, Lee’s Summit Journal, “The Place to Be.” Silver: Emily Jarrett, Lee’s Summit Journal, “Off the Record.” Profile Bronze: Miranda Wycoff, Lee’s Summit Journal, “Miranda’s Adven- Gold: Emily Jarrett, Lee’s Summit Journal, “Staying on Track.” This tures.” nicely sourced and engaging article tells the story of a likely high school HM: John Beaudoin, Lee’s Summit Journal, “It’s News to Me.” Public Service Silver: Abbie Stutter, The Pitch.Great prose, provocative; some sub- Gold: Mary Pechar, Lee’s Summit Tribune, “Paws 4 Autism.” I like ject matter controversial; heavy editorial slant. the topic; worthy group. However, I think it would have been better to Bronze: Melissa Broner, 13 News (WIBW). Well-written but some tell readers about how service dogs aid the kids as your main story, with entries seemed like shill for TV programming. autism better explained in the sidebar. Magazine Story Radio Gold: David Day and Kelly Scanlon, Thinking Bigger Business News Program Media, “Health Care Reform.” Gold: Land Line Now, April 9, 2010. Entertaining and informa- tive show for truckers. Great feature story at Mid-America show. Good interviews. Trade and speciality publications Silver: Staff, Land Line Now, March 24, 2010.Good information, Business-to-business publication nice story on runner Jazzy Jordan. Reporter Laura O’Niel added a lot Gold: Sandi Soendker and Staff, Land Line.Very good mix of con- to the show. tent; well-designed. Bronze: Susan Wilson, Sylvia Marie Gross, Alex Smith with General reporting KCUR, for “KC Currents.” Insightful, probing look at diversity and cultural issues. Very good interviews. Gold: Sandi Soendker, Land Line, “To Right a Wrong.” Good HM: Staff, Land Line Now, for April 14, 2010. presentation of a trial of great interest to the industry. Silver: Charlie Morasch, Land Line, “Heart of a Champion.” Breaking News Business Reporting Gold: Reed Black, James Fetzer, Land Line Now. Interesting com- Gold: David Tanner, Land Line, “Whac-A-Toll.” Good round-up ments from trucker. Good effort to get comment from company. story. Business Reporting Feature Gold: Staff, KCUR, Harvest Public Media, Ethanol series.In- Gold: Charlie Morasch, Land Line, “Bad Things Have Happened depth look at issues surrounding the ethanol industry and government to Good People.” Compelling story. involvement; well-researched; balanced reporting. Silver: Clarissa Kell-Holland, Land Line, “Coming Home.” Silver: Frank Morris, KCUR, Agribusiness Consolidation. Reporter Editorial Morris did his homework on this issue -- a series of reports explaining Gold: Sandi Soendker, Land Line, “It Looked Like He Was Speed- the impact of consolidation and how it affects farmers and consumers. ing.” Good argument to show rulings as ridiculous. Very informative. Silver: David Tanner, Land Line, “DC’s New Buzzword: Livability.” Bronze: Sylvia Maria Gross, KCUR, Dodge City Casino. Very well- balanced reporting on an issue many states are addressing as a source of revenue. Well written. Online HM: Reed Black, Land Line Now, Vehicle Miles Traveled Tax. News Web Site HM: Land Line Now, T. Boone Pickens -- A New Kind of Fuel. Gold: KSPR, for kspr.com. Laid out neatly; local news prominent; easy to find links mentioned on TV. Feature Silver: Josh Mabry, 13 News, for wibw.com. Weather high on page; Gold: Reed Black and Barry Spillman, Land Line Now, “A Symbol lots of social media links; local news prominent but obscured somewhat of Steel.” A wonderful story; well produced with the sounds of 9/11. by national news. Good storytelling. Bronze: Kansas City Business Journal, for KCBJ website. Like Silver: Delana Gordon, KCUR, “Accordion Legend.” Nicely done! placement of most popular story widget. Business focus too narrow for Very creatively produced using the music of the subject of the story. Nice category. natural sound clips. HM: Donna Vestal, Harvest Public Media, for donna.vestal@kcvr. Bronze: Sylvia Maria Gross, KCUR, “Revisiting Leon Jordan com. Case.” In-depth feature about a murder mystery reopened and re- HM: [email protected], Wichita Eagle. examined. Good interviews. HM: Mark Redding and Barry Spillman, Land Line Now, “A Multi-Media Package Parade of Lights.” Gold: TheKansas City Star, for Connor’s Day. Nature of content HM: Frank Morris, KCUR, “Army Fitneess.” makes this one the winner. Flawless presentation and writing. It made me care. Investigative Reporting Silver: The Wichita Eagle. Compelling content that shed light on dark Gold: Reed Black and James Fetzer, Land Line Now, “Taxing You subject. Complete web package with tens of useful links; haunting foot- By the Mile.” Very informative piece on a controversial proposal that age on DVD. will affect every driver in this country. A lot of issues explored and Bronze: [email protected], Harvest Public Media, for Etha- questioned here. Good job! nol Project. Excellent presentation; informative, educational. Extraor- Silver: Dan Verbeck, KCUR, “A Finger’s Touch.” Interesting exami- dinary entries edged this one out. nation of the challenges and opportunities facing investigators involving Blog -old murder cases. Gold: Carrie Rengers, The Wichita Eagle.Nicely written prose on a variety of topics that actually were interesting. Television, above 100 market rank Sports Gold: Stephanie Diffin, Nathan Christner, KAKE, “Oliver’s Second Newscast Chance.” Well written, shot and edited. Good storytelling. Very good Gold: Blaise Labbe, Julie Kellogg and Kelly Hicks, KCTV, Nov. sound bites. Nice nat sound. Good job! 11 newscast. High energy; lots of angles on a breaking news story. Silver: Joel Girdner, KSPR, “Evangel off season.”Interesting story, Dramatic recording of phone call with subject. well told. Very nicely edited. Silver: KCTV, May 5 newscast. Good coverage of a breaking news Bronze: Matt Stewart and Betsy Webster, KCTV, “Pain of Playing.” event showing many aspects to the story. Matt’s story shed a light on a very real concern in high school sports. Bronze: KSPR, July 22 newscast. Good coverage of a tornado touch- Good information. down in Monett. Loved the story the meteorologist did to explain how the National Weather Service determined it was a tornado. Public Service Program HM: KSPR, March 15 newscast. Gold: KSPR, “St. Jude Telethon.” A wonderful example of a station’s ability to use its resources to benefit a worthy cause. Breaking News Silver: Michelle Sherwood, KSPR, “Wednesday’s Child.” Good Gold: Blaise Labbe, KCTV, “Country Club Fire.” Two live shots commitment to an ongoing public service venture. plus a helicopter. Video of the fire and people watching. Did not junk it Bronze: Dana Wright, Ken Ullery, Chris Henoa, KCTV, “Big up with natural sound or emotional interviews. Good solid hard-news Problem, Low Priority.” Interesting story. approach. Spot News Regular Franchise Feature Gold: Doug Magditch, KSPR, “My Ozarks.” Doug is a wonderful Gold: Blaise Labbe and staff, KCTV, “Lost Child -- Olathe.”Great storyteller who uses video and sound and clear writing to tell stories emotion. Excellent storytelling. A happy ending to every parent’s night- that capture your imagination and your heart! Great job! mare. Silver: Greg Alexander, KAKE, “What’s Cool in Your School.” A Silver: Blaise Labbe, KCTV, “Chimp on the Loose.” Good use of unique way to showcase what’s happening in local schools. Giving stu- viewer-generated video. A “talker” of a story. dents cameras to capture their point of view only makes this franchise Bronze: Joanna Small, KSPR, “Mother Thwarts Abduction.” sparkle. HM: Doug Magditch, KSPR, “Downtown Plane Crash.” Bronze: Brad Stevens and Greg Micona, KCTV, “Faces of Kansas City.” Wonderful stories. Very well told. General Reporting Gold: Dana Wright, Ken Ullery and Chris Henoa, KCTV, “12 Questions.” Interesting and powerful approach to a topic that affects many. Television, below 100 market rank Silver: Michelle Sherwood, KSPR-TV, “High: The Buzz on K-7.” Newscast Great shooting, use of naturals, writing. Fast paced and interesting ap- Gold: KMIZ, 5:00 news, Oct. 28. Good live coverage of a breaking proach to important topic. news story which continued to change through the newscast. Bronze: Nathan Christner and Stephanie Diffin, KAKE-TV, “Girls Silver: 13 News Team, WIBW. Lots of information. Good story on with Guns.” Fun story. Nice stand ups. Well shot and edited. gas station robbery. Investigative Bronze: 13 News Team, WIBW, News@6, March 3. Lots of energy with the live shots for the big basketball game. Gold: Dana Wright, Ken Ullery and Chris Henoa, KCTV, HM: KOMU, News@10, Nov. 11. “Wrongful arrest.” Good shooting and editing; compelling characters. An important story to tell, which hopefully will make authorities inves- tigate further before rushing to arrest. Breaking News Gold: 13 News Team, “Search for Steven Macomber.” Informative Feature segments. Strong reporting from the field. Gold: P. Morehouse and T. Yokoyama, KYTV, “Ozarks’ Soldiers’ Spot News

Stories.” Gold: Ryan Smith, WIBW-TV, “Missing Man’s Body Found.” Silver: J. Daves and P. McReynolds, KSPR-TV, “Pathways of Good shooting. Good writing. Concise. Strong emotion. Prayer.” Silver: Theo Hayes, 6 News Lawrence, “Fire Destroys Home.”Good Bronze: S. Olivas, et. al., KCTV, “Que Pasa KC.” flames. Nice hustle to capture so much good footage. HM: D. Hurt and J. Cerullo, KAKE-TV, “The Way God Made Me.” General Reporting Gold: Lauren Gores, KMIZ, “Texting and Driving.” Photojournalism Silver: Erica Nochlin, KMIZ, “Online Danger.” Gold: Very Nathan Christner, KAKE-TV, “Bellvue School House.” Bronze: Erica Nochlin, KMIZ, “Toxic Toys.” appealing visuals. Nice use of narration by subject. Well-edited. Ap- HM: Melissa Bruner and Doug Brown, WIBW, “ESPN Game Day propriate use of natural sound to move the story. at K-State.” Silver: Philip Maslin, Fox 4 WDAF, “A Very Good Year.” Bronze: Joel Gardner, KSPR, “60-65 Construction Zone.” Investigative HM: Greg Alexander, KAKE-TV, “What’s Cool in Your School -- Gold: Doug Brown, Eric Ives, et. al., WIBW, “The Hang Up on Drum Class.” Sexting Laws.” Informative story on a growing societal problem, will HM: Enrique Ramirez, KAKE-TV, “Tornado Tourist.” help educate the public. Feature Gold: M. Murphy and S. Schaefer, KOMU, “Model WWII 2011 Special Awards: Planes.” Journalist of the Year: Christine Vendel, The Kansas City Star. Silver: S. Schaefer, et. al, KOMU, “Honor Ride.”

Bronze: M. Murphy, S. Schaefer, KOMU, “Candy Lady.” Newspaper of the Year: The Lee’s Summit Journal. HM: Cory Smith and Steve Jones, 6 News, “Firefighter Bounces Back.” of the Year: KOMU. Photojournalism Gold: Scott Schaefer, KOMU, “The Sea Fire.”Wow -- what a Radio Station of the Year: (tie) Land Line Now and KCUR. project! Beautifully, lovingly shot. Schaefer invested his time and effort so that when this plane took off, it was an emotional moment for the Joe McGuff Lifetime Achievement Award: Mike McGraw, The viewer. Action and reaction. Great job! Kansas City Star Silver: Scott Schaefer, KOMU, “Chicken Tree.” Funny story. Nicely visualized. Well shot and edited. Bronze: Scott Schaefer, KOMU, “The Culture that Crawls.”Emo - tional story. Lots of movement with the camera to capture the difficulty others have with mobility. HM: Doug Brown, WIBW, “MDA Camp...” Sports Gold: Eric Blumberg, KOMU, “Cooper Catches.” Wonderful storytelling. Well written .Very well shot and edited. Great subject -- life transcends sports. Silver: Eric Blumberg, KOMU, “English Lessons.” Nice profile piece. Very well edited. Compelling sound bites. Interesting story. Bronze: Kevin Romary and Andrew Baker, 6 News, “Sports Chal- lenge.” A fun piece to watch. HM: Matt Blanchette, WIBW, “Football kicker.” Public Service Project Gold: Melissa Brunner and Doug Brown, WIBW, “Taking Con- trol. Living with Juvenile Arthritis.” Documentary Program Gold: Alex Rozier and Sarah Hill, et. al., KOMU, “The Culture that Crawls.” Wow! A fantastic documentary about truly dedicated people who help those who literally MUST crawl to get around. Very well produced, written, shot and edited. And the social media element was wonderful! Silver: Melissa Brunner and Doug Brown, WIBW, “Children of Hope.” Well produced documentary that shines a light on an issue not well understood: children who are homeless. Regular Franchise Feature Gold: Sarah Hill, Scott Schaefer, KOMU-TV, “Sarah’s Stories.” Three outstanding examples of good storytelling. The WWII veteran’s story was a gem with a great unexpected hook. Wonderful!! Silver: Melissa Brunner, WIBW, “To Your Health.” Interesting stories. Melissa knows how to personalize a story about health to bring the issue to life.