On November 7, 1997, reporter Kevin Wallevand and photographer Chad Pederson of WDAY-TV in Fargo made history by winning the first Emmy awarded to a television station in North Dakota. Their documentary, titled “The Quilt: Hope from the Heartland,” told the poignant story of a quilt crafted by women from North Buffalo Church in Kragnes, Minnesota, and its journey to a village in Angola.
The Emmy win was a significant achievement for the station, but the celebration did not end there. Last month, North Buffalo Church hosted a special service to honor Wallevand and Pederson, inviting them back to connect with the women who had participated in the documentary. The church was adorned with welcoming signs, highlighting the community’s pride in their accomplishment.
During the service, the pastor, Rev. Larry Vigen, integrated the story of the quilt into his sermon, illustrating how the efforts of the church’s women could impact lives far beyond their local community. The event culminated in a heartfelt moment when the quilters, numbering around 15, presented Wallevand and Pederson with gifts, including a quilt for each of them. Wallevand received a replica of the quilt featured in the documentary, symbolizing both their achievement and the connections forged through their work.
Reflecting on the experience, Wallevand expressed, “As neat as it was professionally to get that Emmy, it was a lot more rewarding to me personally to get that quilt. It was a neat day. They are a neat group.” His emotional response highlights the powerful bond created between the filmmakers and the community they documented.
The quilt, originally crafted to provide comfort to someone in Angola, now serves as a lasting reminder of the impact of storytelling and community spirit. The day at North Buffalo Church exemplified not only a professional milestone but also a personal triumph, reinforcing the importance of human connections in journalism.
This event serves as a reminder of the positive influence of local stories and the dedication of individuals within communities. As Wallevand and Pederson continue their careers, the memories of that day and the quilt’s journey will undoubtedly stay with them for years to come.
