Competing with radio stations statewide, KUHF-Houston Public Radio was honored with eight awards for excellence in journalism by the Houston Press Club at its recent 2004 Lone Star Awards Banquet.

The overall strength of the staff was evident, with every reporter taking home at least one Lone Star Award.

“The nice thing for us, historically, is this is the first time every reporter has won an award,” said Paul Pendergraft, news director at KUHF. “The awards — coming in a competition with major radio stations statewide — are confirmation of the good work done by all of the individuals here.”

The award for “Radio Journalist of the Year” went to KUHF news reporter Jack Williams. Williams also won a second place award for his profile on Houston Rocket center Yao Ming. He also earned a third place award for his hard news feature on Hurricane Claudette.

Reporter Laurie Johnson also won multiple awards. Johnson was honored with a first place award for her use of sound in a feature on enforcement officers investigating complaints of animal abuse, titled “Animal Cops.” She also placed third in the Journalist of the Year competition.

“It was my first time to submit any entrees for an award,” Johnson said. “I was excited and honored to win the awards and to hear colleagues speak about my work.”

Also winning a first place award were reporters Capella Tucker and Rod Rice for their government-political reporting on the Houston mayoral race.

Reporter Jim Bell won a second place award for his radio feature on church art that was restored in a Hill Country church. Business reporter Ed Mayberry took home a second place award for his public affairs reporting on day laborers seeking work in Houston.

“It is great to be associated with quality professionals at KUHF,” said Pendergraft, “and I can say with complete confidence that this is the most professional, enjoyable and rewarding radio job I have had.”

The Lone Star Awards honor the best journalists and communicators in Texas, recognizing achievements in print, radio, television, Internet and student journalism, as well as public relations. Sponsored by the Houston Press Club, the awards are judged by media organizations across the country.

By Brian Campbell
bacampbe@central.uh.edu