John Croman joined KARE 11 in December of 1997 after stops in Phoenix, Omaha and Lawrence, Kansas. He is a general assignment and political reporter.
John's reporting has garnered numerous regional Emmys and Associated Press awards in Minnesota, Arizona and Nebraska. He was also given the Minnesota Soy Council award for coverage of the soy industry. He was honored with a National Weather Service special citation for live tornado coverage in Kansas.
John grew up in Kansas City, where he edited his high school newspaper, and earned his journalism degree from the University of Kansas. He began his broadcast news career in radio and then moved to TV.
When I was young, I wanted to be: A minister, writer, reporter, architect or singer.
Favorite food: My mom's stacked enchiladas or my wife's Spanish rice.
Who's your idol? No one person. I admire courageous and principled people such as Cesar Chavez and Martin Luther King, Jr., plus the unsung everyday heroes involved in endeavors such as raising special needs children or fighting poverty.
Your inspiration: My wife Lisa, who never ceases to amaze me with her grace, laughter and creativity. She stepped right up when I needed a kidney and gave me hers. I'm also inspired by and thankful for my parents, who raised 8 kids and made us all feel loved.
Favorite album: Artie Shaw, "Personal Best"
Favorite movie: "Cinema Paradiso"
Proudest Award or story: National Weather Service Citation for live radio tornado coverage in Kansas. A grocery cashier thanked me the next day for saving her life, which still means more than my Emmys and AP awards.
Why do you like your job? No two days are alike. I never stop learning.
Family: John, his wife Lisa, and son Elias make their home in Minneapolis.
E-mail: jcroman@kare11.com
