It happened again! 2024 marks the third win for HEC Media’s SPOTLIGHT show at the Mid-America Emmy Awards. Claiming the top spot in the Magazine Program category, SPOTLIGHT has proven itself over the years as one of the best locally produced programs in the region.
Earning this top honor is no easy feat. Once a year, media organizations hailing from markets in six neighboring states submit their best work to the Mid-America chapter of NATAS (National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences). Kansas City, St. Louis, Little Rock, Shreveport and Paducah are just some cities competing for the sought-after Emmy awards.
Consistent quality, interesting content, and stories of local interest pack each episode of the award-winning SPOTLIGHT. This year’s winning entry is no exception. Read about the stories you’ll find in this episode and see why SPOTLIGHT grabbed top honors.
Respected by architects worldwide, the Wainwright Tomb is a limestone and marble masterpiece in Bellefontaine Cemetery in St. Louis. Commissioned by a beer baron to honor his late wife, art historians consider it “possibly the most beautiful piece of tomb architecture in the United States,” according to expert and author, Carol Ferring Shepley. Showcasing marble and mosaics throughout, the tomb was conceived by Lewis Sullivan, who was the most famous architect of his time. Watch the story here.
St. Louis is a leader in medical research and technology. Learn about a local startup, Omniose, and their work developing a vaccine to protect babies from a deadly bacterial infection called Group B Strep. Hear firsthand from Omniose founder Christian Harding what differentiates their product from Pfizer and others in big pharma. Watch the story here.
Historian Amanda Clark examines an often overlooked but key part of St. Louis architecture – red bricks. Learn about the clay industry, including pits, mines, brick-making factories that became prevalent in the late 19th century, and the immigrant population that built our city. Watch the story here.
Vanessa Cooksey, President and CEO of the Regional Arts Commission, discusses the city’s first conference, bringing together research, arts, and culture. This event, Cultura, shares data and research on national and local levels to better advocate for our local arts community. Watch the story here.
The St. Louis Zoo’s Emerson Zooline Railroad celebrates its 60th anniversary. The largest miniature railroad operation in North America, this family-favorite attraction carries between 500-800,000 guests annually. Learn about the history and future of this railroad from experts and engineers. Watch the story here.
Finally, find out where jazz lovers of all ages unite. The recurring Wednesday Night Jazz Jams create a bridge for the community and is Kranzberg Arts Foundation’s longest-standing weekly program. Watch the story here.
And this is just one of many SPOTLIGHT shows! You can find current and archived episodes online at hecmedia.org. Or watch new episodes on air each Sunday morning at 9:30 on KPLR 11.
HEC’ Media’s “Tree to Barrel” story also brought home a 2024 Mid-America Emmy win in the Business/Consumer – Short Form Content category. Watch the story here.
