The Tulsa Press Club will honor Tulsa radio legend John Durkee as its 2016 Tulsa Media Icon during its annual Newsies event on Wednesday, Sept. 28. The Tulsa Media Icon is an award bestowed annually to a local journalist who has consistently exemplified the highest quality and commitment to journalism and journalistic ethics.
Durkee is currently the news director for KWGS Public Radio in Tulsa and has more than 40 years experience in radio news. The Tulsa native has been a news director at radio stations in Tulsa, Missouri and Kansas, and early in his career, was a reporter in Oklahoma City. He spent more than 20 years at KRMG in Tulsa. Durkee has won numerous awards for his work as a broadcaster, including awards from the Radio and Television News Directors Association, the Associated Press, United Press International, The Society of Professional Journalists and the Oklahoma and Missouri Broadcasters Associations. He is a past board member of the Oklahoma Associated Press Broadcasters, the Kansas Association of News Broadcasters and the former Tulsa chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists.
"John is a radio legend in Tulsa and we are excited to recognize his contributions to the field of journalism," said Tulsa Press Club President Rachel Anderson. "Each year, the Newsies awards allow our club members to honor those members of the media who are creating a legacy of excellence in journalism in Tulsa."
In addition to honoring Durkee, the Newsies recognize Tulsa’s best and brightest journalists and media outlets. Categories cross radio, television, newspaper and online formats. Winners are voted on by members of the Tulsa Press Club.
The Newsies is being held at the Tulsa Press Club in the historic Atlas Life Building at 415 S. Boston for the first time in several years. Journalists and professionals from all sectors of business and industry are encouraged to attend, network and explore the benefits that come with being a member of the Tulsa Press Club.
Event tickets are $20 for Tulsa Press Club members, $25 for non-members and sponsorships are available. Guests will enjoy heavy hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar is available.