KMIH students win John Drury Broadcasting awards

November 20, 2023 5:30 pm
John Drury Broadcasting Awards winners, from left to right, Sam Paddor (second), Sophia Loiselle (third), Annabelle Hegarty (first), Dylan Shobe (fifth), Anatoly Odievich and Grace Go (both fourth). Courtesy photo
John Drury Broadcasting Awards winners, from left to right, Sam Paddor (second), Sophia Loiselle (third), Annabelle Hegarty (first), Dylan Shobe (fifth), Anatoly Odievich and Grace Go (both fourth). Courtesy photo

Special to the Reporter

The student broadcasters at Mercer Island High School’s radio station, KMIH 889 The Bridge, have come away with three top honors at the annual John Drury Broadcasting Awards in Chicago. The national competition recognizes the best media programming from high school radio stations across the country.

The winners were announced in a ceremony at North Central College on Nov. 3 and Mercer Island High School and seven current students as well as five 2023 grads were recognized.

Mia Tamarkin won first place for Best Public Affairs program. Annabelle Hegarty and ‘23 grad Sophia Azzano took first for Best Sports Play By Play, and ‘23 grads Ajay Manhas, Max Hughes and Noah Perlman won first for Best Sports Talk Show. Sam Paddor placed second for Best Specialty Music Show. Sophia Loiselle placed third for Best Newscast, KMIH students Grace Go and Anatoly Odievich were awarded fourth for Best Talk Show while senior Dylan Shobe and ‘23 grad Gill McDonald took fifth place in the Best Sports Report category.

KMIH General Manager and Broadcast Media adviser Joe Bryant said, “I am very proud of these students and all the high school broadcasting students nationwide who are being recognized for their excellent work behind the microphone.”

First-place winner Mia Tamarkin. Courtesy photo

First-place winner Mia Tamarkin. Courtesy photo