‘My Town’ Series Featuring Watertown, SD, Wins Two Regional Emmy Awards

Northeast Radio SD News – Watertown, SD - When journalist and filmmaker Cory Hepola arrived in Watertown to shoot My Town Watertown, he wasn’t just producing another episode in a national series. He was documenting a community he believed had a story worth telling — a story of collaboration, resilience, and people who show up for one another.

That belief has now been recognized on one of regional storytelling's biggest stages.

This past Saturday night, Hepola and the My Town Series team celebrated two Regional Emmy Awards, a milestone that underscores the impact of their work across the Midwest. The honors weren’t just a win for the production team — they were a win for every community featured in the series, including Watertown.

In a candid moment during the acceptance speech, Hepola reflected on why the series exists.

“To everyone telling positive stories about our communities: keep telling them. Your stories matter.”

For Hepola, Watertown exemplifies that mission. During filming, he highlighted local innovators, small‑business owners, educators, and everyday residents who make the city vibrant. The episode became one of the most‑watched in the series, drawing national attention and sparking pride across Codington County.

The Emmy recognition reinforces what Hepola said from the beginning—that communities like Watertown deserve to be seen, heard, and celebrated. The award also highlights the broader purpose of the My Town Series: helping people across America recognize the opportunity, innovation, and hope unfolding in places that don’t always make the headlines.

As Hepola put it,

“Every town has a story.”

The Watertown episode currently has over 230,000 views on YouTube.