WJXT wins 2 regional Edward R. Murrow Awards

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – WJXT has received the top awards for breaking news and sports reporting in the 2016 regional Edward R. Murrow Awards announced Tuesday by the Radio Television Digital News Association.

The awards recognize the best electronic journalism produced by radio, television and online news organizations around the world.

"We are delighted to honor the great work being done by local newsrooms," said Kathy Walker, chair of the RTNDA. "Whether the winning entries come from a large team of journalists in a big city, or from a single, dedicated reporter in a small town, each demonstrates the value of exceptional journalism."

"Our winners shed light on important issues and solve problems in their communities," RTDNA Executive Director Mike Cavender said. "We're proud to recognize their achievements."

WJXT was honored for its breaking news coverage of the disappearance of Lonzie Barton and reporter Scott Johnson's story on senior citizen swimming champions.

RTDNA received more than 4,300 entries during the 2016 awards season, setting an all-time record for the fourth year in a row. This year, RTDNA handed out 654 regional Edward R. Murrow Awards in 14 categories.

Regional winners automatically advance to the national Edward R. Murrow Awards competition, which will be judged in May. National awards, including those for network news organizations and students, will be announced in June. The national awards are presented at the RTDNA Edward R. Murrow Awards Gala at Gotham Hall in New York City on Oct. 10.