Maryland Excellence in Journalism Awards

Radio Investigative Reporting

Second Place:             “The Maryland VA Healthcare System”

                                    Mary Rose Madden

                                    WYPR Radio

New Journalist Award:

                                    Jennifer Chang

                                    WYPR Radio

An impressive sampling of stories.  Chang may be young, but she knows the elements of producing a good radio story, including good writing and use of natural sound.

Radio Commentary/Analysis/Editorial

First Place:     “101st Homicide”

                        Fraser Smith

                        WYPR

A well written, well reasoned and well delivered editorial. The use of the 101st homicide victim of the year is poignant and effective.

Radio Specialty Reporting

First Place:     “King Lear: A Study in Aging”

                        Sheilah Kast

                        WYPR

A fascinating look at the challenges of aging and relationships and how Shakespeare’s King Lear can serve as a model for addressing various issues. Kast is an intelligent interviewer who asks the type of questions many listeners would if they had the opportunity to talk to the guest.

Second Place: “The Rivers Series”

                        Joel McCord

                        WYPR Radio

Radio Public Service

First Place:       “Ex-Offenders Find Employment Difficult to Obtain After Incarceration”

                        Donna Marie Owens

                        WYPR-FM/Freelance Reporter

This addresses a real community problem--ex-offenders who can’t find work. Owens looks at the problem from a variety of angles in an informative manner, such as why an employer might not be able to hire an ex-offender because of insurance restrictions. Good use of sound bites. This is very educational.

Second Place: “Developing A Vaccine for Cervical Cancer”

                        Sheilah Kast

                        WYPR-FM

Radio Human Interest

First Place:     “A Wise Guy’s Tale

                        Aaron Henkin

                        WYPR

A fascinating look at a “wise guy,” how he got into the “business” and turned informer in order to get out. This is a well produced story that compels the listener to stay until the end. Great job!

Radio Documentary/In-Depth

First Place:     “The Toll: Coping With Crime and Violence in Baltimore”

                        WYPR News Staff

                        WYPR