The Kansas City Star has been honored with the National Press Foundation’s inaugural U.S. Chamber Award for Excellence in Local Business Reporting. The award recognizes the newspaper’s in-depth investigation into the Kansas City-based company CBD American Shaman.
Business reporter David Hudnall uncovered the story of the man behind CBD American Shaman, a company selling the opioid 7-OH in gas stations and smoke shops across the United States. The investigation also highlighted members of the business community who have been “sounding the alarm” about this addictive drug.
Judges from the National Press Foundation praised the investigation as an important public service, noting the “good, shoe-leather journalism woven compellingly across three pieces.” Hudnall’s extensive experience—spanning 15 years covering the city’s business community—played a key role in the investigation. The reporting also relied on public records requests, detailed review of lawsuits, and dozens of interviews with former employees, industry insiders, and others.
“Kansas City often thinks of itself as a place things pass through, not where national industries take root. But in this case, one of the biggest players in a controversial new drug market is based right here,” Hudnall said.
The Kansas City Star will be formally recognized at the NPF Annual Journalism Awards Dinner on March 12, 2026. The event will take place at the Ritz-Carlton in Washington, D.C.
https://talkingbiznews.com/media-news/kc-star-wins-national-press-foundation-award-for-local-biz-reporting/
