Jake Putnam

Jake Putnam is a former Emmy-winning journalist who now works in public relations in Boise, Idaho. Putnam was born in Pocatello, Idaho November 22, 1956 and is a graduate of Pocatello High School and Idaho State University. Putnam began his career in 1984 as a photographer for KIFI television in Idaho Falls. In 1985 he worked his way up to general assignment reporter in the Pocatello Bureau.

In 1987 Putnam was hired as general assignment and political reporter for KTVB in Boise. In 1995 Putnam won an Emmy and in his 16 year career won awards from the Associated Press, United Press International, Idaho Press Club and the Society of Professional Journalists. In 1997 Putnam was nominated for another Emmy and named Moderator of the public affairs program, Viewpoint. Viewpoint finished number in the ratings in all three years under Putnam's reign.

Putnam played Division I college tennis at Idaho State, and worked for tennis legend Frank X. Brennan as head pro at Mercersburg Academy. Thirty years later he's still playing with year end national ranking of 19 in 2014 22 in 2015 and 26 in doubles. in the USTA's Men's 55 Division. In June 2012 Putnam was ranked 395 in the world and played in the International Tennis Federation World Championships and made it to the second round. In 2015 Putnam was named to the United States Osuna Cup team and has played on three teams. In 2017 the US defeated Mexico 15-12 in Acapulco, Mexico.

In August 2012 Putnam finished 4th and made it to the semi-finals of the US Senior Games in Houston. He has won 12 Gold Medals in the Idaho Senior Games Since 2007 bringing his tennis career record to 16 medals over the past ten years.

Putnam now works with the Idaho Farm Bureau as the state Broadcast Services Manager and writes for the Producer and Quarterly magazines.

Source:Ada County Historic Preservation Council, Boise, Idaho