Kevin Wallevand Receives Quilt Tribute for Emmy-Winning Work

On November 1, 1997, local reporter Kevin Wallevand made history when his documentary, “The Quilt: Hope from the Heartland,” earned WDAY the first Emmy Award ever won by a television station in North Dakota. This significant achievement not only showcased the power of storytelling but also highlighted the community spirit that the documentary captured.

The documentary focused on a quilt created by women at the North Buffalo Church in Kragnes, Minnesota. Wallevand, along with photographer Chad Pederson, followed the journey of this quilt all the way to a village in Angola, illustrating how a simple craft could connect people across continents. The film’s success was a testament to the hard work and dedication of the local community.

Celebrating Achievement and Community Bonds

While the Emmy Award brought professional recognition, a recent event at North Buffalo Church added a deeply personal touch to Wallevand and Pederson’s journey. Invited to a church service, the two reporters anticipated a casual gathering with the women featured in their documentary. Instead, they were greeted with a heartfelt celebration.

The church was adorned with banners congratulating the Emmy winners. During the service, Rev. Larry Vigen incorporated the story of the quilt into his sermon, emphasizing how the women’s efforts could change lives. This moment highlighted the profound impact of community and compassion.

As part of the celebration, the quilters presented Wallevand and Pederson with gifts, including a quilt for each of them. Wallevand received a replica of the quilt showcased in the documentary. The emotional weight of the day was palpable, as the church filled with warmth and gratitude.

A Lasting Memory

Reflecting on the experience, Wallevand noted, “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.” This sentiment underscores the value of the connections made through shared stories and experiences.

The original quilt continues to provide comfort to someone in Angola, while the memory of this special day will likely stay with Wallevand and Pederson for years to come. Their journey, marked by both professional accolades and heartfelt community engagement, exemplifies the power of local journalism to inspire and connect people across the globe.