COLUMBUS, Ohio — WTOL 11 took home 10 awards at Sunday's Ohio Associated Press Media Editors contest in Columbus, including top honors for excellence in reporting, photography and investigations.
First place awards were bestowed on the station in the following categories:
Best Photographer: Eric Rerucha
Best Reporter: Brian Dugger
Best Use of Photography: Joe Cromer for his piece on a legally blind man who continues to paint and celebrate creativity. The judge commented, "One of the most challenging things about being a photographer is not only getting the right shots and timing the edits, but it's also a challenge to make the interviewee feel comfortable. This photographer nailed this. The photographer did a great job capturing the emtion and character of this artist through nat pops, laughs and quirky comments. Not only did the pace of shots and edits keep me watching, but the two simple interviews turned into a story I didn't want to end."
Best Investigative Reporting: Brian Dugger and Eric Rerucha for 11 Investigates: Up in Smoke. The judge commented about this impactful piece, calling it a "lengthy investigation and thorough process (that) brought about significant change, continued seeking answers and held the powerful accountable. Excellent work."
The station earned second place awards for:
- Best Sportscast
- Best Documentary or Series for 11 Investigates: Who Killed Nancy? The judges described the "amazing in-depth review of a cold case, but popped it back to relevant times; great visuals and information. Awesome job bringing it current with probing questions."
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- Best Spot News Coverage for coverage of the June 2023 tornado outbreak. The judges hailed the "multiple fronts of coverage in the immediate aftermath" and noted the coverage "stood out for informing with empathy and thoroughness."
- Best Enterprise Reporting for 11 Investigates: Integrity in Criminal Convictions
- Best Digital Presence
- General Excellence
