Janet Reid Police/Courts Reporter

At what moment did you realize you wanted to become a journalist (videographer, meteorologist, sports reporter, etc.)? And if there wasn't a specific point in time, what was the motivating factor?
I was interning at KWTV in Oklahoma City at the time of the standoff with the David Koresh and the Branch Davidians in Waco. I remember watching an anchor there about to go on air, when he noticed off of a live feed that the compound was on fire. He had a split second to change what he was going to say. At the same time, another reporter was jumping in a helicopter and heading down to Waco. I found the whole fast-paced newsroom environment very exciting.

When you really want to relax and let your hair down in Lawrence, where do you go and what do you do?
I usually hit the mountain bike trails at Clinton Lake. You can ride for miles and miles without seeing anyone. It's the closest thing to mountain biking in Colorado around here. The best part about it -- in the summer if you get too hot, you can just stop and jump in the lake.

What comes to your mind as the most memorable local story you've covered?
Anchoring the news on September 11th was unforgettable. While the newspaper reporters were rushing around that morning, trying to put out their special 'extra' edition, we were hustling to cover local reaction to the terrorist attacks live on the air. It was amazing to see the outpouring of support from people here, lining up to give blood, etc. As far as an individual story that I've covered, I enjoyed interviewing Sen. Bob Dole in his Washington, D.C. office before he came to town for the dedication of the Dole Institute of Politics.

If you couldn't be a reporter, what occupation would you want to try?
I always wanted to be a marine biologist, but these days I would probably just go on a reality television show and win a quick million bucks.

Which two people do you admire most? One should be someone you know. The other, someone you've never met.
I once did a story with a blind marathon runner. I only met him only once but was amazed and moved by his determination. As far as someone I've never met? Tom Brokaw, Nelson Mandela or David Beckham.

If you were stranded on a deserted island with only one song to listen to and one book to read for the duration, what would they be?
The book SHOULD be 'How to survive on a deserted island," but I'd probably pick my favorite book, 'A Prayer for Owen Meany' by John Irving. The song: 'If I Had a Boat,' by Lyle Lovett (for obvious reasons).

If they were going to execute you tomorrow, rightly or wrongly, what would your last meal consist of?
I'd have to say fresh Maine lobster with drawn butter, scallops or shrimp cocktail (or both) for an appetizer and corn on the cob.

Recent stories

Branson launches re-election campaign
By Janet Reid
April 30, 2008
There’s still work to be done. That was Douglas County District Attorney Charles Branson’s message Tuesday as he announced his re-election bid to about two dozen supporters who gathered outside the Douglas County Judicial and Law Enforcement Center.
Douglas County district attorney to seek second term
By Janet Reid
10:01 a.m., April 29, 2008 Updated 02:52 p.m.
Douglas County District Attorney Charles Branson outlines his goals, if he's re-elected to a second term.
Ex-youth leader charged with sex crime
By Janet Reid
April 19, 2008
A former Lawrence woman took the stand Friday in Douglas County District Court describing sexual abuse that took place nearly a decade ago at the hands of a former church youth leader.
Car crash destroys duplex
By Janet Reid
March 22, 2008
Lawrence resident Timothy Klaus is counting his blessings. The father of four was watching television inside his duplex in the 1300 block of Randall Road, when early Friday morning the whole house shook.
6News video: Iraq War reaches fifth year
By Janet Reid
March 19, 2008
It's a war that's claimed thousands of U.S. soldiers' lives and divided a country - and it started five years ago today.
6News video: Lawrence woman busy with chemotherapy instead of wedding plans
By Janet Reid
March 6, 2008
She should be planning her wedding - instead a 24-year-old Lawrence woman is undergoing chemotherapy. Tonight in our continuing series 'Friend 2 Friend' we introduce you to a young breast cancer patient who knows all too well the important of self breast exams.
6News video: Local women speak out against email scams
By Janet Reid
March 2, 2008
A KU student is bilked out of more than $3,000 - another student almost loses thousands more. Two women are victims of scam artists operating out of Nigeria and other overseas countries - who prey on unsuspecting victims over the internet.
6News video: Second Chances: The Blomgren family
By Janet Reid
February 15, 2008
One Lawrence family is living proof of the benefits of organ donation. 6News reporter Janet Reid joins us now with more in tonight's installment of “Second Chances.”
Charges set in downtown car chase
Crime spree included two stolen vehicles, high-speed pursuits by police, several crashes
By Janet Reid
February 14, 2008
It’s a face she won’t soon forget. Carjacking victim Barbara Trouslot identified Edward Wise on Wednesday as the man who stole her SUV at gunpoint on Jan. 31.
6News story: Baker prof remembers 1963 civil rights march
By Janet Reid
January 20, 2008
Nearly 45 years ago, more than 250,000 people marched on Washington, D.C., demanding equal rights. As 6News reporter Janet Reid explains, a Baker University professor was right there in the middle of it.

Full story list

Top ads RSS

Top jobs · Top rentals · Top transportation

Marketplace

Liberty Tax Service 785-856-5421

Find more businesses on Marketplace

Arts & Entertainment · Bars · Theatres · Restaurants · Coffeehouses · Libraries · Antiques · Services

Search Janet's stories