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Pennsylvania AP News
Pennsylvania Associated Press Broadcasters Association
CONTEST WINNERS AP announces 2007 broadcast news contest award winners
PITTSBURGH (AP) _ Roy Shapiro, former vice president and
general manager of KYW Newsradio in Philadelphia, is the
2008 winner of the Roy E. Morgan Award for Outstanding
Contribution to Broadcasting. Three radio stations and two television stations were honored with the Joe Snyder Award for Outstanding News Service in their market classifications: KYW, Philadelphia; WSBA, York; WKOK, Sunbury; KYW-TV, Philadelphia; and WGAL-TV, Lancaster. KYW Newsradio in Philadelphia won the Sandy Starobin Award for Enterprise/Individual Reporting by major market stations in 2007. The station was cited for its entry, "The Delaware Valley on the Front Lines," by reporter Michelle Durham. The AP staff also cited eight Pennsylvania stations for outstanding membership cooperation in covering the news for The AP in 2007: KYW, Philadelphia; KYW-TV, Philadelphia; the Radio Pennsylvania Network, Harrisburg; WFMZ-TV, Allentown; WGAL-TV, Lancaster; WGRC, Lewisburg; WJPA, Washington, Pa.; and WNEP-TV, Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. The contest entries were judged by the Illinois AP Broadcasters Association. In some cases, awards were not made because (1) there were not enough entries in a particular category, (2) the judges felt that entries did not fit the criteria specified in the entry rules, and/or (3) that there was such a wide gap in quality between those that did win and the other entries in the category no additional award(s) could be given. The Associated Press is not involved in judging of the awards and assumes no responsibility for the judges' choices. The judges' results are final.
ENTERPRISE/INDIVIDUAL REPORTING SANDY STAROBIN AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING REPORTING - KYW, Philadelphia "The Delaware Valley on the Front Lines" Michelle Durham, Reporter Description: A KYW Newsradio reporter goes on assignment in a war zone - embedded aboard the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Enterprise in the Persian Gulf, and talking with service men and women from the Philadelphia area. Judges' Comments: Great job in bringing individual soldiers' stories home. Phenomenonal natural sound.
2nd Place - WDUQ, Pittsburgh "Surveillance Cameras" Katherine Fink, Reporter Description: Pittsburgh is creating a citywide network of surveillance cameras. Katherine Fink examines citizens' concerns about the use of public money as well as the issue of privacy. Judges' Comments: Loved the nat sound! It really brought us into the neighborhood. Well written and balanced.
3rd Place - WHYY, Philadelphia "Disabled Refugees" Susan Phillips, Reporter Description: A public interest law firm in Philadelphia filed a class action suit against federal authorities to restore health care benefits for thousands of disabled and elderly refugees across the country. WHYY's Susan Phillips spoke with the lead plaintiff in the case. Judges' Comments: Great storytelling. We could see the men right in front of us.
NEWS DOCUMENTARY
1st Place - Radio PA Network, Harrisburg "The Gift" Jim Melwert, Reporter Description: A behind-the-scenes, touching and sometimes surprising account of how organ donation can affect a family. Judges' Comments: Delivery was spectacular. Emotional and personal. It painted a picture of the family's struggles and the process itself. Wow! Blew away the competition. Writing was great but allowed the sound to tell the story.
2nd Place - WDUQ, Pittsburgh "The Duty of Public Service" Jodi Wu, Writer/Producer; Kevin Gavin, Executive Producer Description: Archibald Cox is known to most as the Watergate special prosecutor, but his long career is a shining example of public service. This program, featuring Cox, many of his colleagues and a panel of Pittsburghers, examines that commitment to public service and if and how civic engagement has changed. Judges' Comments: Interesting approach to a topic not often discussed in news.
3rd Place - (None) SPOT NEWS 1st Place - KYW, Philadelphia "The Murder of Officer Cassidy" KYW Newsradio Staff Description: Coverage of the shooting of a Philadelphia police officer, the search for his killer, and the reaction of residents and city officials. Judges' Comments: Fantastic job of getting pertinent information out. Live shots were great. An all-around team effort.
2nd Place - KDKA, Pittsburgh "A Perfect Storm" KDKA News Staff Description: The KDKA news team sprang into action to cover a powerful storm that gave Pittsburgh a one-two punch, in both the morning and afternoon of Aug. 9, 2007. Judges' Comments: Hosts and the newsroom combined for great coverage.
3rd Place - KDKA, Pittsburgh "Route 28 Rockslide" Rob Milford, Reporter; Bob Kopler, Anchor Description: Car-sized boulders crashed down on heavily traveled Route 28 just in time for morning rush hour. Judges' Comments: Good, quick hits. Used all of their available assets and used them well.
CONTINUING COVERAGE
1st Place - KDKA, Pittsburgh "A Perfect Storm" KDKA News Staff Description: The KDKA News team sprang into action with continuing in-depth team coverage of a powerful pair of August storms, then followed several hard-hit communities through their recovery in the weeks and months that followed. Judges' Comments: We could tell that KDKA was on top of this story from the get-go. Great use of eyes and ears on the street for info. Great use of officials for useful information.
2nd Place - WHYY, Philadelphia "Anti-Violence Coverage" Susan Phillips, Elizabeth Fiedler & Joel Rose, Reporters Description: Ongoing coverage of the terrible prevalence of violence in Philadelphia. Judges' Comments: Great research and investigation of an important issue. Superb!
3rd Place - KYW, Philadelphia "The Reid Brothers' Troubles" KYW Newsradio Staff Description: Coverage of the legal problems for the two sons of Philadelphia Eagles coach Andy Reid, and the public and private toll upon his family and the team. Judges' Comments: Good job of staying with an unfolding story throughout the year.
REGULARLY SCHEDULED NEWSCAST
1st Place - KYW, Philadelphia "All News All The Time - 11/7/07" Harry Donahue, Carol MacKenzie & Ed Abrams, Anchors; Lauren Lipton, Editor Description: A sample of KYW Newsradio's "All News All The Time" format from Wednesday morning, Nov. 7, 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 a.m. Judges' Comments: Extensive use of sound. Very large and skilled staff. In-depth political coverage on morning after mayor's race. Authoritative anchors.
2nd Place - KDKA, Pittsburgh "4 p.m. News - 9/11/07" Paul Rasmussen & Rose Ryan-Douglas, Anchors Description: Paul, Rose and the entire KDKA News team keep Pittsburghers up-to-date with news, weather and traffic. Judges' Comments: Good mix of national and local news. Effective use of reporters.
3rd Place - WHYY, Philadelphia "WHYY's Morning Edition" WHYY News Staff; Brenda Jorett, Anchor Description: Morning Edition reaches more than 600,000 listeners a week providing international, national and local news along with local traffic reports, weather and in-depth local features. While having a relatively small news department in a major market, the WHYY staff works to provide news and long-form reports and features that focus on politics, arts and culture, science and current affairs issues affecting the Philadelphia region. Judges' Comments: Well written. Very pleasant anchor voice. Effective use of reporters.
PUBLIC AFFAIRS
1st Place - KYW, Philadelphia "Fighting Fat at School" Mike DeNardo & Hadas Kuznits, Reporters Description: Segments of KYW Newsradio's "Regional Affairs Council" series on how school districts and parents in the Philadelphia area are battling the bulge in children. Judges' Comments: Great coverage. Complete and in-depth. Great use of sound and interviews.
2nd Place - KQV, Pittsburgh "Pittsburgh Profiles: Adopting the Older Child" Elaine Effort, Reporter Description: Pittsburgh Profileshas been a mainstay of KQV's weekend programming. The program which aired Dec. 23 focused on adopting an older child. Judges' Comments: Host does a good job getting guests to open up. Good conversational style. Complete coverage of issue.
3rd Place - WHYY, Philadelphia "Three Young Men" Elizabeth Fiedler, Reporter Description: Elizabeth Fiedler sat down with some young African American men who get mentoring and cultural guidance from a Philadelphia organization called Concerned Black Men. It was created 30 years ago by five Philadelphia police officers and it continues to reach hundreds of the city's at-risk youth every year. Judges' Comments: Good piece. Competition was tough in this category.
FEATURE
1st Place - WDUQ, Pittsburgh "Craft Congress" Katherine Fink, Reporter Description: Members of the independent crafting movement often look like punk rockers, but some are starting to sound a lot like business students. Katherine Fink reports on the first Craft Congress which was held in Pittsburgh. Judges' Comments: Great descriptions and very well written.
2nd Place - WHYY, Philadelphia "Burmese Refugees" Susan Phillips, Reporter Description: For the past six months, Burmese refugees have been moving to Philadelphia. The protests against the military junta in Burma, also known as Myanmar, are still closely watched by this small group of immigrants who are being resettled in South Philadelphia. Judges' Comments: Good use of sound. The reporter has a very pleasant voice.
3rd Place - KYW, Philadelphia "The New Ten Commandments" Michelle Durham, Reporter Description: Philadelphia-area motorists recite the Vatican's new "Ten Commandments of Driving." Judges' Comments: Fun story. MOS at its finest.
SERIES
1st Place - WHYY, Philadelphia "Life Stories: Victims of Street Violence" WHYY News Staff Description: A series of stories that looked beyond the obituaries to lives touched by violence in Philadelphia. Judges' Comments: Wonderful job telling the stories of people who may have otherwise gone unnoticed.
2nd Place - WHYY, Philadelphia "Philadelphia Mayor's Race" Susan Phillips, Lead Reporter; WHYY News Staff Description: Coverage of Philadelphia's hotly contested mayoral election. Judges' Comments: Fantastic job breaking down the candidates and issues.
3rd Place - KYW, Philadelphia "Setting the Michael Nutter Agenda" Mike Dunn, Reporter Description: A series of special reports spotlighting the issues and problems facing Philadelphia Mayor-elect Michael Nutter. Judges' Comments: Great job laying out what is ahead for the new administration.
RADIO SOUND
1st Place - WRTI, Philadelphia "The Bell Towers" Susan Lewis, Reporter; Jim Cotter, Editor/Producer Description: Susan Lewis looks at and listens to carillons. The centuries-old collections of bells are among the oldest forms of public art and the world's largest musical instrument. Judges' Comments: Great story! We felt like we were there. A bit long, but well done.
2nd Place - WDUQ, Pittsburgh "Didgeridoo: Old Meets New" Mark Nootbaar, Reporter Description: Australian didgeridoo artist William Barton was in Pittsburgh to talk about the traditional instrument and its unique music. He gave a few performances, including one with a rapper. Judges' Comments: Overall production was good. Needed to bring in nat sound sooner.
3rd Place - (None)
SPORTSCAST
1st Place - KDKA, Pittsburgh "June 20, 2007" Jeff Hathhorn, KDKA Sports Director Description: Another Pirates loss and the death of Ben Roethlisberger's mentor highlight this sportscast from June 20, 2007. Judges' Comments: Good writing. Sportscast was significantly enhanced by using sound in three of the four stories while keeping length to 1:23.
2nd Place - (None)
3rd Place - (None)
SPORTS PLAY-BY-PLAY
(None)
SPORTS FEATURE
1st Place - KYW, Philadelphia "Eagles vs. Saints" Paul Kurtz, Reporter Description: KYW Newsradio travels with Philadelphia Eagles fans to New Orleans for an NFL playoff game against the Saints. (And they didn't come home happy!) Judges' Comments: Story moved well and took us to the scene. Good job condensing several days' action.
2nd Place - WHYY, Philadelphia "Phillies' 10,000 Losses" Joel Rose, Reporter Description: The Philadelphia Phillies may not have made it to the World Series, but they did set one record this year when they lost their 10,000th game. Judges' Comments: Good use of nat sound and scene setting.
3rd Place - (None)
NEWS OR SPORTS TALK PROGRAM
1st Place - KDKA, Pittsburgh "The Fred Honsberger Show - 6/20/07" Fred Honsberger, Host; Amy Mauk, Producer Description: The Fred Honsberger Show airs weekdays 3-6 p.m. on KDKA. This portion of the show includes Fred discussing and taking calls on the state Legislature and also the trial of the wife of a murdered doctor. Judges' Comments: One of the most entertaining three minutes of radio we've heard in a while.
2nd Place - KDKA, Pittsburgh "The Fred Honsberger Show - 11/07/07" Fred Honsberger, Host; Amy Mauk, Producer Description: The Fred Honsberger Show airs weekdays 3-6 p.m. on KDKA. This portion of the show has Fred discussing the outcome of the high-profile mayoral election. Judges' Comments: Great lively debate!
3rd Place - WPHT, Philadelphia "Remembering the Events of 9/11" Susan Monday & Dom Giordano, Co-Hosts Description: A special news-talk broadcast commemorating the sixth anniversary of Sept. 11. A dual broadcast from the BigTalker's studio and the Hannity Freedom Concert at Great Adventure. Judges' Comments: Big-name guests made the show.
JOE SNYDER AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING NEWS SERVICE
KYW, Philadelphia
RADIO B - MEDIUM MARKET STATIONS
ENTERPRISE/INDIVIDUAL REPORTING
1st Place - WITF, Harrisburg "HOPE Hounds Profile" Andrew Gena, Producer Description: This audio postcard introduces us to the leaders and participants of a unique program designed to train dogs and rehabilitate inmates. Judges' Comments: The reporter didn't get in the way but let the people tell the story. Good use of sound. Clearly, a lot of work went into this.
2nd Place - ComRadio, State College "Stores Fight Back" Robert Arcamona, Reporter Description: Centre and Blair county convenience stores fought back during a rash of armed robberies. Rob Arcamona talked to employees and managers who'd had enough. Judges' Comments: Good narrative and use of sound. Easy to follow.
3rd Place - WAEB, Allentown "Sometimes a Negative is a Positive" Dan Holzman, Reporter Description: A step-by-step report on the easy, pain-free and quick process of taking an HIV test. This story ran on National HIV Testing Day. Judges' Comments: The judges liked the decision to put the reporter in the story.
NEWS DOCUMENTARY
1st Place - WILK, Wilkes-Barre Scranton "Baby Born Behind Bars" Steve Corbett, Sue Henry & Phil Cummings, Reporters Description: An in-depth probe of the July birth of a baby at the Lackawanna County Prison. Judges' Comments: Great presentation of a hotly debated news story. Well balanced and still compelling for listeners.
2nd Place - Radio PA Network, Harrisburg "Eerie, Pennsylvania: The Second Sight" Brad Christman, Reporter Description: An annual Halloween special that examines the "strange and unexplained" in Pennsylvania, this year investigating claims of psychic abilities and the use of psychics by law enforcement. Judges' Comments: Well produced with real life applications to an unusual, or unbelievable, topic.
3rd Place - WHP, Harrisburg "Alamo Bowl Preview" Bob Hauer, Reporter Description: We have a look at the upcoming Alamo Bowl matchup between Penn State and Texas A&M. Judges' Comments: Started strong but became sports talk instead of a news doc.
SPOT NEWS
1st Place - WSBA, York "Explosion" Cathy Clark, Reporter; Bill Saunders & Dennis Edwards, Anchors Description: On a late February morning, an explosion tore apart a home in York County. Cathy Clark provided the initial report on The Gary Sutton Show, then drove to the scene. Judges' Comments: Solid field reporting. Good advancing of the story. This was the only true example of spot news.
2nd Place - (None)
3rd Place - (None)
CONTINUING COVERAGE
1st Place - Radio PA Network, Harrisburg "A House Divided" Brad Christman & Matt Paul, Reporters Description: Continuing coverage of an unexpected bitter battle for control of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives and the surprising conclusion. Judges' Comments: Good illustration of complicated political wrangling. Kudos for hustle on the New Year.
2nd Place - (None)
3rd Place - (None)
REGULARLY SCHEDULED NEWSCAST
1st Place - WSBA, York "7 a.m. News - 11/7/07" Cathy Clark & Dennis Edwards, Anchors; Mark McKenzie, Editor Description: This is the local news portion only; at the top of the hour we air FOX News for national content. The election night audio was edited by Mark McKenzie and obtained by six stringers in the field, coordinated by talk show host Gary Sutton and producer Stu Leppo. Judges' Comments: Good writing. Concise wrapup of elections. Good to hear from so many candidates!
2nd Place - Radio PA Network, Harrisburg "Radio PA Newscast - 6/20/07" Brad Christman, Anchor Description: Regularly scheduled Radio PA newscast from June 20th. Judges' Comments: Excellent job of explaining state budget process and impact on people.
3rd Place - WHP, Harrisburg "WHP 580 News - 9/11/07, 8 a.m." Bill Mead & Bob Hauer; with Dave Andrews, Tom Russell, Jaime Meyers, Christine Ricci & Matt Meyer Description: Our top of the hour news from 8 a.m. on Sept. 11. Judges' Comments: Lots of news in a short time. Comprehensive. It let the judges know what was going on in your region.
PUBLIC AFFAIRS
1st Place - Radio PA Network, Harrisburg "Countdown 2007" Brad Christman & Matt Paul, Reporters Description: A year-end countdown of the top Pennsylvania stories of 2007, presented in a one-hour format. Judges' Comments: Nicely produced, flows well. It doesn't stick with one subject for an unbearably long time.
2nd Place - WHP, Harrisburg "Senators Preview" Bob Hauer & Michael Parks, Reporters Description: We take a look at the upcoming Harrisburg Senators season. The Senators are the Washington Nationals' Double-A team. Judges' Comments: (None)
3rd Place - (None)
FEATURE
1st Place - ComRadio, State College "Central Pennsylvania National Guard Troops to Iraq" David Klatt, Reporter Description: Pennsylvania National Guard members were headed to Iraq in 12 months. The reason? The Stryker. David Klatt visited one training exercise to find out what a Stryker is and how it helps U.S. troops in Iraq. Judges' Comments: Excellent writing. Great use of sound. You really took us to the scene!
2nd Place - WITF, Harrisburg "A Night with the Nuclear Knockouts" Jen Rehill, Reporter; Casey Houtz & Andrew Gena, Producers Description: A closer look at a sports sensation that's enoying a resurgence in central Pennsylvania and across the country: roller derby. Judges' Comments: Great use of sound. Interesting and unique story.
3rd Place - WITF, Harrisburg "Life Story Writing Groups" Tim Lambert, Reporter; Andrew Gena, Producer Description: An audio postcard featuring members of a 'life story writing group' at a central Pennsylvania retirement community. Judges' Comments: Fitting that the story about storytellers was told by the storytellers. Clever way of bringing the piece to light.
SERIES
1st Place - WHP, Harrisburg "The Pennsylvania Farm Show" Bob Hauer, Reporter Description: Bob takes a look at the annual Pennsylvania Farm Show, a decades-long tradition in Harrisburg. He speaks with the people who make the show work, including the folks who have to deal with the inevitable poop that falls on the floor, a reminder that not everything is wonderful 'down on the farm.' Judges' Comments: Excellent production. Many aspects of an event. Excellent delivery.
2nd Place - WSBA, York "Hidden Treasures of York County" Cathy Clark, Bill Saunders & Mark McKenzie, Reporters Description: This was an interactive series of reports on sites of historic significance in York County that can be visited and enjoyed. The interactive component is a series of photos and links on our Web site www.wsba910.com. The entry includes a printout of the link. Judges' Comments: (None)
3rd Place - Radio PA Network, Harrisburg "Radio PA's Top 10 Stories of 2007" Brad Christman, Reporter Description: A 10-part series highlighting the top Pennsylvania stories of 2007. Judges' Comments: (None)
RADIO SOUND
1st Place - WITF, Harrisburg "History Meets the Arts in Gettysburg" Andrew Gena, Producer Description: A visit to the 10th annual History Meets the Arts Festival in Gettysburg generated this audio postcard. Judges' Comments: A first-rate job of using sound to take us to the event without the need of a reporter.
2nd Place - WITF, Harrisburg "A Vigil for David" Scott Gilbert, Reporter Description: Friends and family of a Perry County soldier killed in Iraq are joined by community members at a gathering to solemnly remember his life. Judges' Comments: Again, a first-rate job of using sound to take us to the event without the need of a reporter.
3rd Place - Radio PA Network, Harrisburg "A Line in the Sand" Brad Christman, Reporter Description: The sounds of fighting illegal immigration along the U.S.-Mexican border with the Pennsylvania National Guard in Arizona. Judges' Comments: Good use of actualities intertwined with sound of what was happening at the time.
SPORTSCAST
1st Place - WSBA, York "Sportscast - June 2007" Jeffrey Schiffman, Reporter Description: Regularly scheduled sportscast on WSBA radio. Judges' Comments: Good energy, lots of information in a short amount of time.
2nd Place - Radio PA Network, Harrisburg "Radio PA Sportscast - 11/7/07" Dave Eddy, Reporter Description: Regularly scheduled Radio PA sportscast from Nov. 7. Judges' Comments: Good overall sportscast.
3rd Place - (None)
SPORTS PLAY-BY-PLAY
1st Place - WSBA, York "The York Revolution" Darrell Henry & Gary Sutton, Reporters; Nate Bucklew, Producer Description: Play-by-play of the inaugural season of the Atlantic League York Revolution baseball team on WSBA. The game is Aug. 1, Revolution vs. Camden, a first inning excerpt. Judges' Comments: The team sounds comfortable together, and knowledgeable. They kept our interest. Good descriptions really painted the picture.
2nd Place - WEEU, Reading "Friday Night (High)lights" Mitch Gerhart, Sports Director; Paul Roberts & Bob McCool, Analysts; Matt Gorney, Board-Op/Producer Description: Excerpts of WEEU's 2007 high school football live broadcast season, including play-by-play, post-game interviews and in-game updates. Judges' Comments: Good energy. Illustrated the action well. Included some non-play-by-play cuts, post-game, etc.
3rd Place - WILK, Wilkes-Barre Scranton "High School Football" Joe Thomas, Rob Neyhard & Gary Ferrentino, Reporters Description: (None) Judges' Comments: Solid play-by-play.
SPORTS FEATURE
1st Place - WITF, Harrisburg "A Night with the Nuclear Knockouts" Jen Rehill, Reporter; Casey Houtz & Andrew Gena, Producers Description: A closer look at a sports sensation that's enoying a resurgence in central Pennsylvania and across the country: roller derby. Judges' Comments: Well written, good pacing and good use of sound. Wonderful story that kept the judges' interest throughout. Best entry in a strong category.
2nd Place - Radio PA Network, Harrisburg "2007 Penn State Preview" Craig Rhodes & Brad Christman, Reporters Description: A preview of the 2007 Nittany Lions football squad. Judges' Comments: Strong writing. Strong delivery. Fun piece on Paterno vs. media.
3rd Place - Radio PA Network, Harrisburg "Radio PA's Top 10 Stories of 2007" Dave Eddy, Reporter Description: A look back at the biggest sports stories in the year that was 2007. Judges' Comments: Excellent summary of the top sports stories. Good variety.
NEWS OR SPORTS TALK PROGRAM
1st Place - WSBA, York "York's Morning News - 6/20/07" Jim Horn & Dennis Edwards, Hosts; Cathy Clark, News Director; Jeffrey Schiffman, Sports Director Description: York's Morning News on WSBA is a news and information morning show featuring hosts Jim Horn and Dennis Edwards, News Director Cathy Clark and Sports Director Jeffrey Schiffman. Traffic and weather updates are every 10 minutes, with newsmaker interviews and commentary features from Rush Limbaugh, WSBA talk show host Gary Sutton and others. Judges' Comments: Straight-forward, not over-the-top, seamlessly combining news and newsmaker interviews. What a morning news program should sound like.
2nd Place - WSBA, York "The Gary Sutton Show - 11/7/07" Gary Sutton, Host; Stu Leppo, Producer Description: The Day After: A retrospective of the 2007 mid-term election in York County and statewide, with various winners and losers. Judges' Comments: Not a lot of time wasted with opening. Way to get the newsmakers on quickly.
3rd Place - (None)
JOE SNYDER AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING NEWS SERVICE
WSBA, York
RADIO C - SMALL MARKET STATIONS
ENTERPRISE/INDIVIDUAL REPORTING
1st Place - WKOK, Sunbury "Prescription Drug Abuse" Ali Stevens, Reporter Description: A look at prescription drug abuse from the eyes of a local physician and a district attorney. The doctor talks about addiction and what compels users to commit crimes. The district attorney talks about how to keep drug offenders out of the court system. Judges' Comments: (None)
2nd Place - (None)
3rd Place - (None)
NEWS DOCUMENTARY
(None)
SPOT NEWS
1st Place - WGRC, Lewisburg "Hummels Wharf Business Fire" Don Casteline, Reporter; Jim Diehl, Anchor Description: Don Casteline reports live from a burning dental business in Snyder County Judges' Comments: Anchor and reporter worked well together, using a few followup questions.
2nd Place - (None)
3rd Place - (None)
CONTINUING COVERAGE
1st Place - WKOK, Sunbury "Boroughs to the Bay and Beyond" Mark Lawrence, Reporter Description: Boroughs to the Bay and Beyond is a focus on the critical issues facing the Susquehanna River and the Chesapeake Bay. This is our second year of news emphasis on the watershed issues, on who is identifying solutions, and on how local residents can help. Judges' Comments: (None)
2nd Place - (None)
3rd Place - (None)
REGULARLY SCHEDULED NEWSCAST
1st Place - WJPA, Washington "Tony DePalma Reports: Election Wrapup" Tony DePalma, Reporter Description: Tony DePalma anchors the noon news, highlighting local election results on Nov. 7. Judges' Comments: Well packaged, well paced, comprehensive post-election day newscast.
2nd Place - WKOK, Sunbury "WKOK News Roundup - 11/7/07" Matt Farrand, Anchor; Sara Bartlett, Reporter; Kevin Herr, Sports Reporter Description: This is our late day News Roundup for Nov. 7. Judges' Comments: (None)
3rd Place - WGRC, Lewisburg "Noon News - 2/27/07" John Callahan, Anchor; Jim Diehl, Reporter Description: WGRC's John Callahan anchors the noon news as Jim Diehl files a report on a suspicious Lycoming County barn fire. Judges' Comments: (None)
PUBLIC AFFAIRS
1st Place - WKOK, Sunbury "Saving Energy" Mark Lawrence, Reporter Description: This is half of a 60 minute program on saving energy in your home. Judges' Comments: Host takes the listener to his house for an audit. This really involves the listener on a different level. Good job making an everyday topic interesting.
2nd Place - WGET, Gettysburg "Preparing for Battle" Max Stevens, Reporter Description: Max Stevens interviews two members of the Pennsylvania Army National Guard Styker Brigade before they head to Iraq or Afghanistan. Judges' Comments: Interviews were educational and personal. Would like to have heard more issues.
3rd Place - WGRC, Lewisburg "Drug Abuse: There Is Hope" Larry Weidman, Host; David Nelson, Producer Description: Interview on The Matter at Hand program with representatives of Central Pennsylvania Action for Community Transformation, a coalition of local organizations working to prevent substance abuse and provide resources for those involved in substance abuse. Judges' Comments: Good topic. Offers program information to help with a community problem.
FEATURE
1st Place - WKOK, Sunbury "Pennsylvania Song" Ali Stevens, Reporter Description: Local musician Earl Pickens remakes a famous song with the names of dozens of Pennsylvania towns. He hopes the Web site www.youtube.com will promote it and give him a chance to perform it before Pennsylvania officials. Judges' Comments: Reporter had fun with this story. Good use of interview. Would like to have heard his earlier song referenced in the piece, too.
2nd Place - WGRC, Lewisburg "Rotary Hot Air Balloon Ride" Jim Diehl, Reporter Description: It's up, up and away with WGRC's Jim Diehl as he learns the ins and outs of a hot air balloon. It's all part of Montoursville Rotary's annual fundraiser. Judges' Comments: Reporter used a lot of sound to put listener in the balloon.
3rd Place - WGRC, Lewisburg "Geisinger's Children's Miracle Network Poster Child" Jim Diehl, Reporter Description: Jim Diehl interviews little Megan Murphy and her mother about Megan's selection as a poster child for the 2007 event: How a premature baby fought all odds with help from Geisinger Medical Center's doctors and staff. Judges' Comments: (None)
SERIES
(None)
RADIO SOUND
1st Place - WKOK, Sunbury "Hufnagle Park" Sara Bartlett, Reporter Description: We take a look at the history of Hufnagle Park and how to correctly pronounce the park's name. Judges' Comments: Story used a fun style. Sound kept the story flowing.
2nd Place - WGRC, Lewisburg "New Berlin Rope Swing Retirement" Jim Diehl, Reporter Description: Jim Diehl takes a nostalgic look back as a rope swing over Penns Creek at New Berlin in Union County is cut down following the building of a new bridge. Judges' Comments: Story did a good job capturing the memories and nat sound.
3rd Place - WKOK, Sunbury "Soap Box Race" Ali Stevens, Reporter Description: The annual Soap Box Race in Northumberland is held in the summer each year. Children ages 8 to 12 can participate in the outdoor race down a steep incline in the borough. Judges' Comments: Consistent sound. Did the boy win the race?
SPORTSCAST
(None)
SPORTS PLAY-BY-PLAY
1st Place - WGRC, Lewisburg "WGRC Friday Night Game of the Week" Don Casteline, Play-By-Play; Glenn Smith, Color Announcer; Terry Burke, Field Reporter; Jim Diehl, Producer Description: Two teams bound for the playoffs battle on the final week of the season. This wildly entertaining seesaw matchup featuring the Jersey Shore Bulldogs and Mifflinburg Wildcats goes down to the final possession. Judges' Comments: (None)
2nd Place - WKOK, Sunbury "Shikellamy Sports on WKOK" Kevin Herr, Play-By-Play; Dick Hort, Football Color Commentator; Dave Ritchie, Basketball Color Commentator Description: Highlights of WKOK Sports coverage of Shikellamy Braves football and basketball in 2007. Judges' Comments: (None)
3rd Place - (None)
SPORTS FEATURE
1st Place - WPPA, Pottsville "Pennsylvania Derby Recap" Travis Sparks, Reporter Description: A recap of the Pennsylvania Derby, held at Philadelphia Park Casino and Racetrack on Labor Day. The piece includes pre-race comments from Kentucky Derby-winning jockey Calvin Borel, the race call, and post-race comments from the winning jockey and trainer. Judges' Comments: Comprehensive. Good use of sound. Nice, enthusiastic delivery. This entry is the clear winner.
2nd Place - WKOK, Sunbury "Little League Bats" Matt Farrand, Reporter Description: Should Little League baseball bats be aluminum or wood? We take a look at the pros and cons of aluminum bats, which may be banned from play in the future. Judges' Comments: (None)
3rd Place - WPPA, Pottsville "NASCAR News" Dave Smith & Marge Smith, Reporters Description: This is the May 25th edition of NASCAR News on WPPA, recapping the NASCAR All Star Race and previewing the Coca Cola 600. Judges' Comments: (None)
NEWS OR SPORTS TALK PROGRAM
(None)
JOE SNYDER AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING NEWS SERVICE
WKOK, Sunbury
TELEVISION A - MAJOR MARKET STATIONS
ENTERPRISE/INDIVIDUAL REPORTING
1st Place - WTAE-TV, Pittsburgh "Dangerous Drinking Water" Jim Parsons, Reporter; Kendall Cross, Photographer; Michael Lazorko, Editor Description: An investigation into why local drinking water is so infrequently tested for lead content and why families with water that tests positive may not even be told. Judges' Comments: This is a story that matters to the audience. It encourages people to take action and seek information. Very well visualized. Excellent shooting, editing and use of numbers.
2nd Place - KYW-TV, Philadelphia "Courage to Come Forward" Larry Mendte, Reporter; Jim Barry, Producer; Mike Henry, Editor; Scott Jacobson, Photographer Description: Larry Mendte persuaded the lead witness in the biggest child porn case in U.S. history to be interviewed. At first prosecutors were upset, but the reports led to more children coming forward, additional charges, and new state regulations. Judges' Comments: Personalized angle of a much larger story. Puts not a face but a voice to the type of horrific crime we may have become desensitized to.
3rd Place - (None)
NEWS DOCUMENTARY
1st Place - KYW-TV, Philadelphia "A Moment to Remember" Larry Mendte, Writer & Host; Jim Barry, Producer; Stephanie Carson, Producer; Mike Henry, Editor; Eugene Bradford, Andrea Korff & Bill Williams, Photographers Description: In a wonderful tribute to the men and women from the Philadelphia area who died fighting the War on Terror, KYW showed the picture of every single one of them on Memorial Day. The program begins with the moving story of one of the men who was killed in Iraq but left a lasting memory. Judges' Comments: Brilliant use of video and graphics with first-rate story-telling. Extremely respectable, too.
2nd Place - CN8, Philadelphia "Terror in Tulsa" Art Fennell, Reporter Description: This traces the origins and coverup of a race riot in Tulsa, Okla., in the early 1920s. The ultimate story of greed, oil and race has been covered up in the history books and only now the survivors in their late 90s are coming forward. Judges' Comments: Great depiction of historical account. Good use of MOS, graphics and sound.
3rd Place - (None)
SPOT NEWS
1st Place - KYW-TV, Philadelphia "City in Crisis: The Shooting of Officer Cassidy" CBS 3 Eyewitness News Team Description: Officer Chuck Cassidy was shot on Halloween, the third Philadelphia police officer to be shot in four days. Our breaking coverage began just minutes after the shooting and continued with hours of special live programming, including live pictures and video giving a rare look inside an active crime scene, and what had become the largest manhunt in recent Philadelphia history. Judges' Comments: Provided important perspective for the community. Important information with a sense of urgency but no melodrama.
2nd Place - KDKA-TV, Pittsburgh "Weather Triple Whammy" KDKA Staff Description: August 9, 2007, proved to be one of the most bizarre weather days most people can remember in Pittsburgh. A torrential downpour in the morning caused widespread flash flooding, a violent storm in the afternoon tore siding and bricks from buildings and knocked down trees, and a third storm just before nightfall left tens of thousands without electricity in a power outage that would end up lasting for five days. Judges' Comments: Good use of meteorologists. Excellent live shots from various reporters. Good walking and talking. Good response and use of resources.
3rd Place - WPXI-TV, Pittsburgh "Winter Storm" Channel 11 News Staff Description: When a winter storm hits, Storm Team 11 and all its resources spring into action. Judges' Comments: Very slickly produced. Excellent use of meteorologists and traffic to provide useful information.
CONTINUING COVERAGE
1st Place - KYW-TV, Philadelphia "City in Crisis: The Shooting of Officer Cassidy" CBS 3 Eyewitness News Team Description: No other story in 2007 gripped the city of Philadelphia like the shooting death of Officer Chuck Cassidy. This entry highlights our continuing coverage, from shortly after the shooting happened, through the manhunt and arrest, including an exclusive flight back with the suspect as he was returned from Florida. Judges' Comments: Exhaustive coverage. Outstanding production values. Depth in addition to breaking news.
2nd Place - WPXI-TV, Pittsburgh "Convention Center Collapse: Beyond the Crash" Karen Wells & Rick Earle, Reporters; Scott Dobson & Tim Holoman, Photographers Description: A series of investigations into deficiencies at Pittsburgh's convention center after a truck crashed through the floor. Judges' Comments: (None)
3rd Place - WPXI-TV, Pittsburgh "Questions of Care" Rick Earle, Reporter; Tim Holoman, Photographer & Editor Description: A series of investigations chronicling care issues at Pittsburgh's Veterans Hospital. Judges' Comments: (None)
REGULARLY SCHEDULED NEWSCAST
1st Place - KYW-TV, Philadelphia "November 7, 2007 - 11 p.m." Susan Schiller, News Director; John Wilson, Executive Producer; Jonelle Fabian, Producer; Darin DeVivo, Director Description: This newscast begins with coverage of a murdered police officer's funeral, and the latest from our reporter on location in Miami, where a suspect had just been arrested. It also features breaking news, a health report on a breakthrough technology to predict a woman's risk of breast cancer, and a consumer report in which a father and his daughter hundreds of miles apart show a new way to save money on phone calls. Judges' Comments: Awesome A block. Strong, complete coverage of the Cassidy funeral followed by a good wrap of the day. Also strong on locally generated health and consumer news.
2nd Place - WPXI-TV, Pittsburgh "11 at 11 - 11/7/07" Channel 11 News Staff Description: Channel 11's 11 p.m. newscast brings viewers the day's events plus First Weather in the first 11 minutes. Judges' Comments: Well organized, easy-to-follow newscast with personable, confident anchors.
3rd Place - WTAE-TV, Pittsburgh "September 11, 2007" Tom West, Producer; Steve Hadt, Executive Producer; Bob Longo, News Director Description: As in many markets, 9/11 story happened in our coverage area and we continued to follow the progress of building a memorial to those who died on Sept. 11, 2001, on Flight 93. But this broadcast also included many high-impact stories, including the arrest of a suspect in recent rock-throwing incidents on local highways and breaking news on the Pittsburgh Pireates, plus the story of a toddler who made a midnight escape through a doggie door. Judges' Comments: Good team coverage on Sept. 11 with appropriate perspective and nice mix of stories in A block.
PUBLIC AFFAIRS
1st Place - CN8, Philadelphia "Money Matters Today: MMT Job Search" Mary Caraccioli, Reporter & Executive Producer; Pete Fall, Coordinating Producer; Derek Stevenson, Technical Producer; Jerry Palovick, Producer; Susan Barclay, Associate Producer; Andrew Schlagle, Photographer/Editor; Mark Dudzinski, Director; Brian McLendon, Director of Network Production Description: Our younger MMT viewers wanted to know how they could get a leg up on the competition to land a good job. We decided to take the show out of the studio and on the road to a college campus to give them some strategies for their job search arsenal. Judges' Comments: Host has great energy; topic is timeless and relevant, with great takeaways for viewers.
2nd Place - KYW-TV, Philadelphia "Alex Scott: A Stand For Hope Phone Bank" Larry Mendte, Host; Jonelle Fabian & Monica Avery, Producers; Mike Henry, Editor; Andrea Korff, Photographer Description: Based on the documentary Alex Scott: A Stand for Hope, KYW held a day-long phone bank that raised more than $750,000 for the Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation to fight pediatric cancer. Judges' Comments: Emotional program with long-ranging impact for area families. Beautifully produced packages.
3rd Place - CN8, Philadelphia "Money Matters Today: The Right Shade of Green" Mary Caraccioli, Reporter & Executive Producer; Pete Fall, Coordinating Producer; Derek Stevenson, Technical Producer; Jerry Palovick, Producer; Susan Barclay, Associate Producer; Andrew Schlagle, Photographer/Editor Description: Many people want to make money selling "green" products and services. We decided to dedicate an entire week to helping our viewers wade through all the green messages bombarding them. Judges' Comments: Well produced with good interviews.
FEATURE
1st Place - KYW-TV, Philadelphia "Stephen McGowan" Larry Mendte, Reporter; Mike Henry, Editor; Jim Barry & Stephanie Carson, Producers; Eugene Bradford & Andrea Korff, Photographers Description: After telling the story of Stephen McGowan last year, we re-shot and expanded it with a trip to Arlington Cemetery and Grand Rapids, Mich. Although it is the story of one man, it tells the story of many and it reminds us of what we have lost. Judges' Comments: Powerfully produced, emotionally gripping, outstanding story telling.
2nd Place - KDKA-TV, Pittsburgh "Doggy Dip" Dave Crawley, Reporter; Dave Forstate, Photographer/Editor Description: Dave and Dave produce an ode to the end of summer, when the wave pool at the area's largest water park literally goes to the dogs. Judges' Comments: A feature bright with writing light. Appealed to the judges. Just right! Dr. Seuss would be proud.
3rd Place - WTAE-TV, Pittsburgh "The Mighty Pens" Mike Clark, Reporter; with Cary Toaso Description: This is the story of a team of handicapped children, some as young as three, who play ice hockey. They use special sleds which require amazing upper body strength to propel them across the ice. Judges' Comments: A great story you could really feel!
SERIES
1st Place - WTXF-TV, Philadelphia "Government Employee Corruption" Jeff Cole, Investigative Reporter; Gary Scruka, Senior Investigative Producer; Mark LaValla, Investigative Photographer/Editor; John Campbell, Chief Photographer/Editor Description: Fox 29 Undercover spent considerable time and resources investigating instances of government employee corruption and wrongdoing: (1) Millville Housing Authority drinkers; (2) a drug-selling teacher; and (3) an investigator and sexual harassment. Judges' Comments: Kept us on seats' edge. Each piece was equally strong. Every question we had was answered within the story.
2nd Place - KYW-TV, Philadelphia "Alex's Lemonade Stand" Larry Mendte, Reporter; Jonelle Fabian, Producer; Mike Henry, Editor; Eugene Bradford, Photographer Description: This is a series of reports on children who are helped by Alex's Lemonade Stand, and the story of one woman who treated Alex. One uplifting note: little Megan Norris is now 'disease free;' they have cured her cancer. Judges' Comments: Alex was tied to every piece. Very nice. Captured emotion without sensationalism. Very well done.
3rd Place - KDKA-TV, Pittsburgh "Foreclosure Crisis" Andy Sheehan, Reporter Description: A three-part series that takes an in-depth look at the property foreclosure crisis in Allegheny County. The series explores the causes of the problem and profiles some of the people who are losing their homes. Judges' Comments: Every angle was explored. Every story started and ended alike. Reporter let people tell story. Very little separates this entry from 1st place.
SPORTSCAST
1st Place - KYW-TV, Philadelphia "CBS 3 Eyewitness Sports at 6 - 2/27/07" Beasley Reece, Reporter; Paul Pozniak, Executive Producer; Andrew Wheeler & Saul Stokes, Producers; Darin DeVivo, Director Description: A big day in local sports: Eagles players talk about Jeff Garcia leaving the team; the Eagles sign safety Quintin Mikell to a contract extension; and the Flyers trade for a new goaltender, Martin Biron. We had sound from Biron at the airport in Buffalo before coming to Philadelphia, and sound from Flyers general manager Paul Holmgren on the trade here in Philadelphia. Judges' Comments: A professional, well-put-together sportscast.
2nd Place - (None)
3rd Place - (None)
SPORTS PLAY-BY-PLAY
1st Place - KDKA-TV, Pittsburgh "Steelers Pre-Season" Bob Pompeani, Anchor; Edmund Nelson, Color Analyst; Bill Shissler, Executive Producer Description: A compilation of pre-game, play-by-play and post-game coverage offered by KDKA during the Pittsburgh Steelers' 2007 pre-season. Judges' Comments: Solid, network quality presentation.
2nd Place - WTXF-TV, Philadelphia "Philadelphia Public League Basketball" Don Tollefson, Boys Game; Bill Vargus, Girls Game; George Cummings, Executive Producer; Tom Sredenschek, Producer Description: Through announcing styles, graphics and replays, WTXF tried to capture the emotions of the boys' and girls' title games. Judges' Comments: Congratulations for covering high school girls' basketball in a major city! Solid and well produced coverage.
3rd Place - (None)
SPORTS FEATURE
1st Place - CN8, Philadelphia "Urban Youth Racing School" Gregg Murphy, Reporter; Tim Walton, Producer; Bill Mendenhall, Editor; Dennis Loughnane, Photographer Description: The sports landscape is changing for urban youth. Instead of basketball and football, kids from Philadelphia are being given the opportunity to learn about auto racing. It's a school that provides young men and women a hands on approach at the track, in the shop, behind the scenes, and everywhere else within the racing world. Judges' Comments: What a story! Amazing editing and effects used without detracting from the story. Kids told the story very well. Something we'd never seen before.
2nd Place - WPXI-TV, Pittsburgh "Flying with Rooney" Alby Oxenreiter, Reporter; Tim Holoman & Scott Dobson, Photographers; Ward Hobbs, Photographer/Editor Description: A rare look at Steelers owner Dan Rooney as he pilots his private plane. Judges' Comments: This is a true sports feaure. It skillfully integrates the character of Rooney and the sport of football.
3rd Place - WTXF-TV, Philadelphia "Caitlin Rafter" Tom Sredenschek, Producer/Writer; Shane McEachern, Photographer/Editor Description: Caitlin Rafter is not your average swimmer. Her determination has been an inspiration to others. Judges' Comments: Beautiful, touching piece. The complete package of editing, shooting, writing and sound.
NEWS PHOTOGRAPHY
1st Place - WPXI-TV, Pittsburgh "Sunrise at the U.S. Open" Tim Holoman, Photographer & Editor Description: Sunrise as the grounds crew prepares for the U.S. Open in Oakmont. Judges' Comments: Network quality. Excellent use of angles and nat sound. Wouldn't change a thing!
2nd Place - KDKA-TV, Pittsburgh "I Am a Runner" Andy Sheehan, Reporter; Dave Colabine, Photographer Description: An inspiring and beautiful feature on a marathon runner with an amazing secret and an amazing drive to overcome it. Judges' Comments: A very close second. This photographer has a great eye and clearly communicated well with the reporter to build up to the 'twist.' Very engaging story.
3rd Place - WPXI-TV, Pittsburgh "Is This Boot Camp?" Scott Dobson, Photographer & Editor Description: What women will go through to get in shape. Judges' Comments: Solid entry. Tells a story and uses nat sound well. Timeline and sequencing showed a clear progression.
SPORTS PHOTOGRAPHY
1st Place - KYW-TV, Philadelphia "Old Tyme Baseball" Terrence Brownley, Photographer Description: Our photographer spent an entire day shooting a group from Maryland as they reenacted 'old tyme baseball.' He mic'ed and interviewed several members of the group to capture the felling of this unique event. Judges' Comments: Pictures told the story well. Great variety of shots. Very creative and unique story.
2nd Place - KDKA-TV, Pittsburgh "Steeler Monday" Mike Zappone, Reporter; Michael Challik, Photographer/Editor Description: KDKA's day-after-the-game post-mortem feature. Judges' Comments: Solid work. Good focus on the action on the field.
3rd Place - (None)
WEATHERCAST
1st Place - WTXF-TV, Philadelphia "Winter Storm Forecast - 12/14/07" Jim Nichols, Meteorologist Description: Meteorologist Jim Nichols forecasts one of the most complex winter storms to affect Philadelphia in 2007. This regularly scheduled weathercast features easy-to-understand graphics explaining all possible storm scenarios and arrival times. Judges' Comments: Great explainer of storm and possibilities. Clear, bright graphics.
2nd Place - WPXI-TV, Pittsburgh "Storm Team 11" Mike LaPoint & Scott Harbaugh, Reporters Description: Team coverage from Storm Team 11 as a major winter storm approaches. Judges' Comments: Loved how the big story was broken down. Using two meteorologists seemed a little rushed.
3rd Place - KYW-TV, Philadelphia "Valentine's Day Storm" Kathy Orr, Chief Meteorologist Description: This was the forecast for the infamous Valentine's Day storm that paralyzed part of our northern suburbs. Motorists were stranded for more than 24 hours, and it led to a change in state emergency procedures. Judges' Comments: (None)
NEWS OR SPORTS TALK PROGRAM
1st Place - CN8, Philadelphia "Out of Bounds - 9/11/07" Gregg Murphy, Host; Seth Magalaner, Executive Producer; Jeff Shurilla, Senior Producer; Tim Walton, Producer; Torie McConnell, Coordinating Producer; Geoff Camlin, Associate Producer; Dennis Loughnane, Photographer; Bill Mendenhall, Photographer/Editor; Mark Grillo, Editor Description: Great sports towns deserve great sports debates and that is what you get every night "Out of Bounds." From Boston to Virginia, all the hot topics from the sports world are within our borders, with thoughtful discussion and lively banter mixed with stories that go beyond the boundaries of sports. Judges' Comments: Very well produced show, appealing to an audience much broader than a typical sports show. Impressive resources! High energy across the board.
2nd Place - CN8, Philadelphia "It's Your Call with Lynn Doyle: 9/11 -- Moving Forward" Lynn Doyle, Executive Producer/Host; Tess McGrath, Co-Executive Producer; Stephanie Walton, Coordinating Producer; Steve Raymond, Matthew Stafford & Dana Smith, Producers; Janet Tegley, Marc Rose & Christyn Stanojev, Booking Producers; Steve Szychulski, Alisa Walters & Colleen Wolfe, Associate Producers; Andrew Turton, Photojournalist Description: A sampling of our 2-hour program focused on moving forward after 9/11. Topics included safety concerns, security issues and the impact on the upcoming presidential election. Judges' Comments: Thoughtful and well produced. Would like to have seen more diversity in the panel choices and how the host handled calls.
3rd Place - (None)
JOE SNYDER AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING NEWS SERVICE
KYW-TV, Philadelphia
TELEVISION B - MEDIUM MARKET STATIONS
ENTERPRISE/INDIVIDUAL REPORTING
1st Place - WHP-TV, Harrisburg "Children and Youth Investigation" Liz Collin, Reporter; Mark Clemson, Photographer Description: This series started as a tip about Children and Youth Services of Lancaster County taking children from homes without first conducting an investigation. It led to state lawmakers changing policies to ensure that similar agencies follow a process before children are removed from families. Judges' Comments: A story with depth that's told in a suspenseful way, responsibly, and with great care for the viewer's understanding of very complex material.
2nd Place - WNEP-TV, Scranton/Wilkes-Barre "A Stolen Reputation" Josh Brogadir, Reporter; Mike Cholko, Photographer Description: A former friend stole a man's identity not for financial gain but to avoid prosecution. At first no one would listen, but through our efforts law enforcement identified the right man. Judges' Comments: (None)
3rd Place - WTAJ-TV, Altoona "An Unlikely Neighbor" Allison Schroeder, Reporter; Brian Shoenfelt, Videographer/Editor Description: A convicted child molester is permitted to live with a woman and her three young children. The children turn out to be his own and it was all perfectly legal due to a local judge's ruling. Judges' Comments: (None)
NEWS DOCUMENTARY
1st Place - WGAL-TV, Lancaster "Letters" Anne Shannon, Carrie Fairchild, Joel Schreiner, Eric Nazarenus, Dan Maddox, Scott Wilson, Dave Rupp, Rich Davidson & Ryan O'Hara Description: A year after a madman killed five girls and wounded five others in a one-room school house, News 8 examined the legacies of the tragedy. Because so many involved were Amish and not able to be interviewed on camera, the story was told through a series of letters written by key players in the event. Judges' Comments: Very well done. Tasteful.
2nd Place - (None)
3rd Place - (None)
SPOT NEWS
1st Place - WHP-TV, Harrisburg "Bad Day at Steelton" Donna Kirker Morgan, Reporter; Laura Stuft, Photographer Description: This started out as a power line down, but when power was restored a huge fire was ignited. Our crew captured the story from the center of the action. Judges' Comments: Fantastic concept of a 'bad day.' Great job putting all that in one story. Good buildup. It let people and the interviews carry the story.
2nd Place - WHTM-TV, Harrisburg "Rescuing the Rescuer" Ali Lanyon, Reporter; Bryan Barr, Photographer Description: A man is rescued from an icy river. Judges' Comments: Startling story!
3rd Place - WGAL-TV, Lancaster "Lost & Found" Susan Shapiro, Reporter; Dave Rupp, Photographer Description: A routine car crash turned into something very different. Judges' Comments: (None)
CONTINUING COVERAGE
1st Place - WGAL-TV, Lancaster "Snow Job" Ben Simmoneau, Reporter; Dan Maddox, Photographer Description: After an ice storm stranded thousands of drivers on Pennsylvania highways, News 8 wanted to know why. We found a series of communications, planning and equipment problems that left the state unable to respond to the winter weather. Judges' Comments: Ben badgered the bureaucrats and plowed ahead to expose the bungling that led to serious mishandling of the Valentine's Day snowstorm. Great video and top-notch editing added to the story.
2nd Place - WFMZ-TV, Allentown "A City in Turmoil" Brad Rinehart, News Director Description: The story began in May with the death of a 4-year-old boy caused by the collision of two Allentown police cars responding to a 911 call. Coverage included the night of the accident, the day after, the boy's funeral, various news conferences and a City Council hearing in November to fire the officer responsible. Judges' Comments: Professional reporting in an emotional situation.
3rd Place - WGAL-TV, Lancaster "Mortgage Mess" Brian Roche & Ben Simmoneau, Reporters; with Rich Davidson & Joe Mitton Description: Hundreds of homeowners faced foreclosure when they discovered the mortgage company they trusted for years was a sham. Judges' Comments: Solid investigative work. It's obvious WGAL knows how to stick with a story.
REGULARLY SCHEDULED NEWSCAST
1st Place - WGAL-TV, Lancaster "News 8 at 6:00" News 8 Team Description: News 8 at 6:00 balances enterprise and daily news coverage from across the Susquehanna Valley. Judges' Comments: Good lead. Great use of maps in school spending. Didn't overdue graphics; they have relevance.
2nd Place - WHTM-TV, Harrisburg "ABC 27 News @ 6 - 6/20/07" Dennis Fisher, News Director; Pat Bannister, Producer Description: This show is an example of our everyday drive to compel viewers to watch. Judges' Comments: Good photography for storm story. Good crosstalk with live reporters.
3rd Place - WFMZ-TV, Allentown "69 News at 6:00 - 9/11/07" Brad Rinehart, News Director Description: We reported on several 9/11 anniversary services in our region and across the country, as well as the day's other news, including a state House committee hearing on the growing crime rate. It was convened a week after the murder of a local college student. Judges' Comments: Special CGs that are specific to story. Good use of sets. Cool throw to break.
PUBLIC AFFAIRS
1st Place - WGAL-TV, Lancaster "Teacher Impact Awards" Kim Lemon & John Mason, Reporters; Todd Fry, Photographer Description: News 8 honors six teachers who students say made a difference in their lives. Judges' Comments: The judges continue to be impressed with the quality of production by this station. Engaging, well edited, major market caliber. Great job of story telling.
2nd Place - WGAL-TV, Lancaster "P.T.S.D." John Mason, Reporter Description: Soldiers returning from war face a new foe. News 8 shows viewers the effects post traumatic stress disorder has on them and the pressure it's putting on the Veterans Administration health system. Judges' Comments: Again, WGAL has it down when it comes to tellling a story.
3rd Place - WFMZ-TV, Allentown "2007 Freddy Awards" Shelley Brown & Ed Hanna, Emcees; Jamie Balliet, Producer; Shelley Brown, Barry Fisher & Mike Werteen, Executive Producers Description: 69-WFMZ televises the annual Freddy Awards program live each year to recognize and reward exceptional accomplishments in the production and performance of musical theater in local high schools. It's a 3-hour program full of energy and high production values and televised last year for the first time in high definition. Judges' Comments: Kudos for giving attention to local high school arts.
FEATURE
1st Place - WHTM-TV, Harrisburg "The Light Brite Supper" Kevin Henry, Reporter; David Cohrac, Photojournalist Description: A new take on a masterpiece. Judges' Comments: Good use of choir and Lite Brite music. Fantastic use of story. We started with a bill collector and ended with an artist.
2nd Place - WTAJ-TV, Altoona "Stidd Strong" Patrick Schurr, Reporter; Doug Kawtoski, Videographer Description: A Penn State student, severely injured by a drunken driver while crossing the street, faces a long and grueling road to recovery. Judges' Comments: Good portrayal of family's struggle.
3rd Place - WGAL-TV, Lancaster "Aggie & Kaziah" Janelle Stelson, Reporter; with Scott Wilson Description: After Aggie's son died in Iraq, she traveled to a remote part of Utah searching for Kaziah, a stranger who promised to help her begin rebuilding her life. News 8 was invited to be part of the emotional journey. Judges' Comments: Great photography. Way to go get the story!
SERIES
1st Place - WHTM-TV, Harrisburg "Lessons From Boot Camp" Kristin Thorne, Reporter; Joe O'Neill, Photojournalist Description: Educators get educated at Paris Island. Judges' Comments: Good use of nat sound on both pieces. Good topic on the high school teacher piece.
2nd Place - WHP-TV, Harrisburg "Speedtracker" Ben Russell, Reporter; Brian Smithmyer, Photographer Description: This weekly series takes a look at everything from speeding through school zones to how video games can affect young drivers. Judges' Comments: (None)
3rd Place - WGAL-TV, Lancaster "The Happening" Carrie Fairchild, Reporter; with Tom Knier Description: Following the Amish school shooting, the outside world was left to wonder how the survivors and victims' families were recovering. One Amish couple decided to break the silence. In the basement of their home, lit only by an oil lamp, they shared the emotional journey their community was on. The interview reveals the test of faith and forgiveness the tragedy created for the Amish. Judges' Comments: (None)
SPORTSCAST
(None)
SPORTS PLAY-BY-PLAY
1st Place - WGAL-TV, Lancaster "Football Friday" Pat Principe, Mike Hostetler, Mike Straub & Barbara Barr, Reporters; Ronda Keiser, Producer Description: On Friday nights in the fall, high school football is center stage in towns across the Susquehanna Valley. News 8 covers dozens of schools each week, capturing the highlights but also the spirit of the event -- the 'Fans, Bands and Cheerleaders!' Judges' Comments: Love the play-by-play live and in the studio. Pat Principe made great use of his surroundings and the energy level was right on target.
2nd Place - (None)
3rd Place - (None)
SPORTS FEATURE
1st Place - WHP-TV, Harrisburg "The Longest Race" Jason Bristol, Reporter; Justin Raub, Photographer Description: November 21 was not a big day for most of us. But that was the day one high school runner celebrated the one-year anniversary of the day he almost died. Judges' Comments: Exceptional writing and viedography that worked together to tell an exceptional story.
2nd Place - WHTM-TV, Harrisburg "Ali on e-Bay" Josh Reed, Reporter; Mike Rashid, Photographer Description: Muhammad Ali's training ground is for sale. Judges' Comments: Good use of archival material to help profile an interesting behind-the-scenes character.
3rd Place - WGAL-TV, Lancaster "I Have Hands, I Can Do That" Mike Straub, Reporter; Jon Willier, Photographer Description: A youngster with only one leg is winning national skateboard championships. Judges' Comments: (None)
NEWS PHOTOGRAPHY
1st Place - WNEP-TV, Scranton/Wilkes-Barre "Steamtown Train Excursion" Larry Lavelle, Photographer/Editor Description: Video, music and natural sound combine to let the viewer experience a ride on a steam powered excursion train to the historic Tunkhannock Viaduct in Nicholson, Pa. Judges' Comments: Far superior to anything in the group!
2nd Place - WHP-TV, Harrisburg "Brush Strokes" Garth Millen, Photographer Description: This visual natural sound package highlights the work of an artist who's trying to preserve Civil War history. Judges' Comments: Tight shots were amazing. Transitions of the houses: stellar!
3rd Place - WGAL-TV, Lancaster "Slumbering Groudhog Lodge" Dave Rupp, Photographer Description: You probably have heard of Punxsutawney Phil, but he's not Pennsylvania's only groundhog. News 8 shows you another Groundhog Day tradition in Lancaster County. Judges' Comments: Ideal nat package way to make lemonade out of a lemon. Very well done.
SPORTS PHOTOGRAPHY
1st Place - WGAL-TV, Lancaster "Best Seats in the House" Tom Knier, Photographer Description: A brand new baseball stadium has one very old-fashioned feature. Judges' Comments: Good closeups. Great nat sound. Good framing for interview. Unique angles.
2nd Place - WHP-TV, Harrisburg "Roller Derby: A Rough Sport" Jaime Fettrow, Reporter; Justin Raub, Photojournalist Description: Roller Derby is a rough sport, one where women are bumped and bruised all the time. We take a look at a local league where the soreness is outweighed by the friendships made. Judges' Comments: (None)
3rd Place - WGAL-TV, Lancaster "A Fight Off the Field" Tom Knier, Photographer Description: A high school football coach takes on an opponent that teaches his team about life and living. Judges' Comments: Good use of sun's light during interview.
WEATHERCAST
1st Place - WGAL-TV, Lancaster "News 8 Storm Team Weather" Joe Calhoun, Reporter Description: (None) Judges' Comments: Comfortable to watch. Crisp graphics. Nice forecast-driven weather. Put fronts under banner.
2nd Place - WHP-TV, Harrisburg "Tom Russell Weathercast" Tom Russell, Reporter Description: Regularly scheduled weathercast Judges' Comments: Animation stops on a lot of the graphics.
3rd Place - WHTM-TV, Harrisburg "Chuck Rhodes Weather" Chuck Rhodes, Weather Forecaster Description: Chuck is the most recognizable face in our market. His forecast is folksy and enjoyable. Judges' Comments: (None)
NEWS OR SPORTS TALK PROGRAM
1st Place - WITF-TV, Harrisburg "Smart Talk: Central Pennsylvania's Generation Next" Scott LaMar, Reporter; Nell McCormack Abom, Host; Cara Williams Fry, Executive Producer Description: This program featured a panel of 16- to 25-year-olds, known as Generation Next. We learned that this group has grown up with technology, 9/11, and credit cards, has unique expectations for their futures, and sees the world much differently than previous generations. Judges' Comments: Great topic. Good job at digging into it. Strong production values. Host is engaging and relatable. Concern that the panel did not exhibit socioeconomic diversity.
2nd Place - (None)
3rd Place - (None)
JOE SNYDER AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING NEWS SERVICE
WGAL-TV, Lancaster
EDITORIAL
RADIO
1st Place - KYW, Philadelphia "More Than Lip Service Needed" David Yadgaroff, Vice President & General Manager Description: Philadelphia has now become an icon for urban violence. The city's signature 'LOVE' sculpture is being replaced by the smoking gun. Judges' Comments: We liked the call to action. Strong writing, well delivered and easy to follow.
2nd Place - KDKA, Pittsburgh "Mayor Luke, Boy Mayor" Michael Young, General Manager; with Barbara Boylan Description: KDKA General Manager Michael Young, in KDKA's weekly editorial from Oct. 5, 2007, explores the antics of Pittsburgh's 27-year-old mayor. Judges' Comments: Good writing. Strong delivery.
3rd Place - KQV, Pittsburgh "New Taxes for Allegheny County" Robert W. Dickey, President & General Manager Description: Listeners have come to expect hard-hitting editorials from KQV President and General Manager Robert W. Dickey. The topic the first weekend in December was the controversial 10 percent poured alcohol tax to be collected by bars and restaurants, and a car rental tax. Judges' Comments: Complaints about taxes, but no real call to action.
TELEVISION
1st Place - WGAL-TV, Lancaster "Open Records Means 'Open Records'" Paul Quinn, WGAL-TV President & General Manager Description: Pennsylvania lawmakers promised to reform the state's weak open records law. But as the final vote approached it was clear the new law would make things even worse. WGAL President & General Manager Paul Quinn explained the shortfalls of the proposed legislation and urged lawmakers to vote against it. Judges' Comments: (None)
2nd Place - WTAE-TV, Pittsburgh "Harrisburg Feedback" Rick Henry, General Manager Description: A WTAE-TV Viewpoint, which airs weekly in our broadcast news. This one addresses the issue of out-of-touch lawmakers in our state capital and how they would be wise to listen to the feedback from voters. Judges' Comments: Clear and concise. Simple, common sense approach that opens the door to viewer response. If the purpose was to generate debate, you likely did that.
3rd Place - (None)
STUDENT RADIO & TELEVISION
STUDENT RADIO
1st Place - ComRadio, State College "Penn State Green Power Award" David Klatt, Reporter Description: Penn State goes green, and people are beginning to take notice. David Klatt talked to those behind the progress. Judges' Comments: Entry shows potential. Reporter has a good voice and delivery. The opening nat sound was a little confusing, but the piece stands out among the competition. Be careful not to over-edit your voiceovers (hearing a breath once in a while makes you sound more
2nd Place - (None)
3rd Place - (None)
STUDENT TELEVISION
1st Place - Centre County Report, State College "Green Campus" Konstantin Toropin Description: Penn State is going green. Judges' Comments: Wrote to video extremely well. Good, quick video shots kept our attention. Good use of panning video. Would have liked more sources for interviews, but this entry outshone its competition.
2nd Place - Centre County Report, State College "Gypsy Moths" Aaron Patterson Description: Mount Nittany is suffering from an infestation of gypsy moths. One group is trying to save the mountain. Judges' Comments: Liked the use of graphics to reinforce the cost of spraying comparisons. Would have liked to have seen some kind of footage of healthy trees to contrast the damage. Highest points awarded on production values and reporter's delivery.
3rd Place - Centre County Report, State College "Drought" Loren Cicalese Description: Centre County is suffering from a drought. One farmer has to change his farm before he loses everything. Judges' Comments: Very creative use of video in the piece (and some nice shots, too). Audio on the studio voiceovers was not clean (a hum in the background), but we liked the reporter's delivery overall.
OUTSTANDING MEMBERSHIP COOPERATION
2007
KYW - Philadelphia KYW-TV - Philadelphia Radio Pennsylvania Network - Harrisburg WFMZ-TV - Allentown WGAL-TV - Lancaster WGRC - Lewisburg WJPA - Washington WNEP-TV - Scranton/Wilkes-Barre
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