Detroit, Muncie and Jackson, Tenn., Lead Efforts in Second-Quarter Awards of Excellence Results
Wilmington’s report on a charter school founder with a checkered past, Muncie’s coverage of a church fire that killed a firefighter and Jackson, Tenn.’s story of the murder of a well-known businessman were highlights of the second-quarter Awards of Excellence contest.
A total 44 newspapers were cited in the quarterly contest, with the most awards going to the Detroit Free Press (six) in Division One, The Star Press at Muncie (four) in Division Two and The Jackson (Tenn.) Sun (five) in Division Three.
Judges for the second quarter were: Michael Davis, executive editor, Journal and Courier at Lafayette, Ind.; Linda Green, executive editor of the Visalia Times-Delta and the Salinas Californian; Jim Kelly, managing editor, The Desert Sun at Palm Springs; Dick Schneider, executive editor, Pensacola News Journal; and Julie Topping, managing editor, the Detroit Free Press.
Watchdog Journalism
Division I
First Place
The News Journal at Wilmington
Nichole Dobo, reporter
For reporting on the checkered past of a charter school founder who had a history of child abuse and multiple bankruptcies.
Judges said: “Nichole Dobo’s digging found the man who started a school for girls had a history of child abuse (including a conviction involving his own daughter), and multiple bankruptcies. Dobo uncovered that he had several Social Security numbers and dates of birth and aliases. The story resulted in the governor’s office working on legislation to require criminal background checks and financial disclosures for founders of charter schools.”
Finalists
The Journal News at Westchester
Jorge Fitz-Gibbon and Jonathan Bandler, reporters
For a report on how state mistakes cost taxpayers more than $63 million per mile of interstate construction.
Judges said: “Aided by FOI requests, Jorge Fitz-Gibbon and Jonathan Bandler read thousands of pages of documents to reveal how the state’s failure to monitor road construction of I-287 cost taxpayers millions and added years to the project. A two-page graphic showing where the money went and an interactive graphic online made it a presentation you couldn’t stop reading, no matter what platform you were on.”
The News-Press at Fort Myers
Dan DeLuca and Melanie Payne, reporters
For coverage of a private hockey school that was fraught with problems, including lack of accreditation.
Judges said: “Dan DeLuca and Melanie Payne acted on a tip from a parent and found a poorly run private school with a headmaster/owner who was a former felon and disbarred attorney. They also found the school may not have been eligible for scholarship money awarded by the state because of the headmaster’s criminal record. The school has since closed, thanks, in part, to the News-Press.”
Detroit Free Press
L.L. Brasier and John Wisely, reporters
For reporting on how the parents of two autistic children found themselves in jail when their severely disabled daughter accused the father of rape.
Judges said: “These reporters went through (and posted online) many court documents, used social media and conducted deep and thorough reporting to show how a family was wrongly torn apart by the justice system. Their excellent storytelling skills helped explain how prosecutors pressed on with a case that was flawed from the beginning.”
The Cincinnati Enquirer
Sherry Coolidge, reporter
For a selection of work including a report on how a county distributes health levy funds; a report on overcrowded crime lab conditions; South Fairmount’s plans to raze part of a historic neighborhood to restore a lake; and Hamilton County’s plans to take money from every government entity, whether they approve it or not.
Judges said: “Every community needs a reporter like Sherry Coolidge. Her range of work shows she doggedly goes after government in areas that aren’t readily apparent, but which are important to taxpayers. She has a knack for going after stuff people care about.”
Watchdog Journalism
Division II
First Place
Montgomery Advertiser
Josh Moon, reporter
For an outstanding job of pursuing documents, facts and people who could provide information on how so many good athletes could wind up playing at the same high school despite having started careers elsewhere.
Judges said: “This is a great example of how watchdog journalism doesn’t have to focus on city hall or public funds, but on misuse of power in local schools.”
Finalists
Visalia Times-Delta
Valerie Gibbons, reporter; and Jim Houck, editor
For a report on small tax-supported districts in a county. The report showed how a defunct hospital is still collecting taxes, which state law allows, and a revelation that many of those who serve part time on water, cemetery and similar boards receive free health insurance, pay, or both.
Judges said: “This information would never have come to light without the reporting by this team, a fine demonstration of what we can do for our communities.”
The Star Press at Muncie
Doug Zaleski, reporter
For a report on a complaint to federal authorities about disparity at Ball State University between sports facilities for men and women. When the university refused to provide details about the investigation, reporter Doug Zaleski responded with a series of stories on Title IX compliance and the lack thereof. Among those differences was a new comfortable locker room for men’s baseball, while women softball players changed clothes in a parking lot. The result: More charges anticipated from the Office of Civil Rights, community outcry, and at last, a locker room for the softball team.
Judges said: “This reporter did a good job of building on the original complaint and holding the university accountable.”
Wausau Daily Herald
Karina Gonzalez, reporter
For refusing to accept a city attorney’s word that a top administrator’s performance review was unavailable, leading to an open-records request, deep reporting and, ultimately, a forced resignation.
Judges said: “The reporter’s diligence and clear, cogent prose is to be praised. She certainly sent a message to the community that she will not take no for an answer.”
The Post-Crescent at Appleton
Jim Collar, reporter; and Joel Christopher, Andy Thompson and Jamie Mara, editors
For detailing how a man entrusted with the guardianship of people who could no longer handle their finances stole at least $500,000 from them – with outrageously scant oversight. Despite being blocked in attempts to get many documents — officials cited privacy concerns of clients – this team put together information that revealed a system that relied on guardians’ word that they were handling finances in the clients’ best interest.
Judges said: “These tough-minded stories focused attention on a significant problem and helped initiate change. It was one of those investigations that led you to think, ‘What else is going on out there unseen?’ “
Watchdog Journalism
Division III
First Place
Home News Tribune at East Brunswick
Sergio Bichao, reporter
For intrepid work by a reporter who made it his mission to gather hard-to-access restaurant inspection results and create an online portal for it.
Judges said: “This is an excellent example of a reporter chipping away at a project to provide readers with information they can use in their daily lives. We raise a glass to Bichao, a clean one, at that.”
Finalists
The Sheboygan Press
Eric Litke and Janet Ortegon, reporters
For an ambitious open-records database project looking at salaries of local government workers, including overtime pay. The two-part series highlighted salary trends. One rather surprising finding was how a prison employee could manage to have nearly 40 hours of overtime in a week for most of the year, a practice made easier because such employees can take sick time in the same week they have overtime — and sick time is one of the leading causes of the need for overtime.
Judges said: “Clear and concise writing allowed readers to quickly make sense of the numbers and underlying issues.”
The Jackson Sun at Jackson, Tenn.
Tajuana Cheshier, reporter
For an enterprise news feature on the reasons that led to the closing of a 168-year-old college. With enrollment falling and debt rising, Lambuth University trustees voted to close the school. The reporter looked at what went wrong, what decisions could have been made that might have have saved the university, and what might become of the campus.
Judges said: “This clear-eyed explanation of the downfall of an institution was reported and written quite well.”
The Daily Advertiser at Lafayette, La.
Tina Marie Macias, reporter
For a report on how the Lafayette Parish School Board apparently used informal phone polling, text messages and other means to work outside the Louisiana Open Meetings Law. The board’s efforts resulted in the superintendent resigning rather than facing a contract extension vote.
Judges said: “When the superintendent suddenly stepped down during a meeting, reporter Tina Marie Macias’ instincts led her to find out why and how. What she found was a series of phone calls among school board members prior to the meeting, in apparent violation of state law. Good tracking back through minutes and interviews to find out what happened.”
The News Leader at Staunton
Maria Longley, reporter; David Ress, local editor
For reporting on a mental health agency’s hiring of an inexperienced — but expensive — director despite financial shortfalls. The director was hired outside of normal hiring practices and administrative costs soared while services were being cut.
Judges said: “These staffers did an outstanding job of putting salaries, revenue and costs in perspective.”
Beat Reporting
Division I
First Place
Detroit Free Press
Steve Neavling, reporter
For Steve Neavling’s smart and aggressive coverage of Detroit City Hall, a hail of scoops, jaw-dropping watchdog reporting and insightful analysis of fast-moving events, all in the span of a month. Stories ranged from public money misspent on fancy furniture to an abandoned, unsecured crime lab littered with evidence from thousands of cases.
Judges said: “What sets Steve Neavling’s work apart from other beat coverage is his deft ability to switch from tenacious watchdog reporting to deep insights into turmoil in the mayor’s office. Every submission demonstrates that Neavling got ahead of the news, and the scope of his work makes clear he is well-sourced and has plenty of stamina for a beat that seems to make news seven days a week.”
Finalists
FLORIDA TODAYat Brevard
Mackenzie Ryan and Michelle Spitzer, reporters
For Mackenzie Ryan and Michelle Spitzer’s work on the education beat, revealing that a mysterious benefactor who pledged big money to the local school district had a record of business failures and broken promises.
Judges said: “These reporters’ persistence and thoroughness in checking out the background of Tom Garo told school officials what they didn’t want to hear: the guy talked big but never came through. Strong database reporting questioned the qualifications of substitute teachers, many of whom had no prior teaching experience and only a high school degree. The report shared documents with readers via a document cloud.”
The Courier-Journal at Louisville
James Bruggers, reporter
For James Bruggers’ persistence and follow-through in reporting questionable practices and expenditures by the Metropolitan Sewer District.
Judges said: “When some of Bruggers’ FOI requests were denied, he leaned on a network of sources from his beat to produce documents that described a pattern of self-dealing and mismanagement by the Louisville sewer board. His reporting prompted resignations and an audit ordered by the mayor.”
The Arizona Republic at Phoenix
Jaimee Rose and Shaun McKinnon, reporters
For a report that brought readers into Rep. Gabrielle Giffords’ recovery room and revealed details of her healing and her husband Mark Kelly’s decision to continue with his shuttle mission.
Judges said: “Jaimee Rose clearly had to work for this access, and it is a tribute to the reporter and to The Republic that the Giffords family entrusted her with these intimate, unguarded moments. Though the tone of the stories was optimistic, Rose didn’t sugarcoat anything. She asked difficult questions and made clear the huge physical, emotional and even political challenges faced by Giffords and her family.”
The Tennessean at Nashville
Anne Paine, environment reporter
For Anne Paine’s wide-ranging status report on the safety of the nuclear power industry in Tennessee in the wake of the Japanese nuclear crisis. Stories ranged from quake risks at reactors, to the design used by the Tennessee Valley Authority to used nuclear rods.
Judges said: “While several newspapers examined the condition of their region’s nuclear plants, Paine’s coverage stood out for its scope and her obvious expertise. It enabled her to write confidently — and conversationally — about a variety of complex topics, including radioactive waste and the outdated design of a plant now under construction in Tennessee.”
Beat Reporting
Division II
First Place
Wausau Daily Herald
Jake Miller, reporter
For coverage of jobs and the economy from some fresh and unexpected points of view.
Judges said: “Miller understands that covering the jobs and the economy affects people, not just politicians. From his story about the growth of microbreweries, to his piece about how a tornado affects unemployment, to the story on growth of the health care industry, Miller touches on many aspects of a bleak market. His blog also focuses on where the jobs are and how people are affected. Good job.”
Finalists
Journal and Courier at Lafayette, Ind.
Taya Flores, reporter
For a portfolio of feature writing about local people, which demonstrated versatility and imagination.
Judges said: “There is a wonderful sense of growing expectation when you turn to a lifestyle section and read about local people from a different point of view. Taya’s pieces about being biracial (including a video component), alternative transportation (not just biking!), one woman’s surprise about her kidney donor, and bicycle polo were offbeat and thoughtful. She takes on what’s really happening in people’s lives.”
Green Bay Press-Gazette
Steve Contorno, reporter
For explanatory coverage of the basis of Wisconsin’s budget issues.
Judges said: “Reporter Steve Contorno took a complicated topic that can often make a reader’s eye glaze and explained it clearly and efficiently. His insight into the roots of the revenue issues and the divisions in the political party busted myths and educated readers. His online chat after the budget was signed led a good ‘What’s next?’ discussion.”
Poughkeepsie Journal
Mary Beth Pfeiffer, reporter, and Mary Huber, intern
For a special investigation into pension padding.
Judges said: “If you really want to get readers’ attention, write about wasting their tax dollars. That’s exactly what this work did. Database analysis by Mary Beth Pfeiffer, with assistance from Mary Huber, showed that three years before retirement, employees were adding overtime hours — legally and knowingly — to improve their pension pay. Analyzing government data is hard, detailed work. But explaining to readers exactly where their money is going, and allowing the employees who made the overtime to explain why they did it, is what good journalism is about.”
Pensacola News Journal
Kimberly Blair, reporter
For coverage of the effects of the BP oil spill on Florida beaches, one year after the event.
Judges said: “Blair is doing God’s work in her coverage of Florida beaches. These pieces about BP’s response — or lack of it — are important for Florida, and one could argue for the whole nation. She talks to real, involved people to get her dogged stories of diseased fish, hidden oil that BP is only selectively investigating, and mysteriously dead sand dollars. Thanks to Blair’s determination, The News Journal is making sure this environmental disaster doesn’t just fall off the public’s radar.”
Beat Reporting
Division III
First Place
Fort Collins Coloradoan
Robert Moore, editor and political reporter
For sniffing out improprieties and questionable activities involving elected officials, candidates for office and a party chairman in Colorado. Using public records, Moore generated five spot-on Page One stories and stirred up a lot of dust.
Judges said: “We could have read even more from Moore, whose political focus is laced with an inner Geiger counter for finding shenanigans, a sure grasp of story structure and a wonderfully arched eyebrow. Wayward politicians beware.”
Finalists
Herald Times Reporter at Manitowoc
Cindy Hodgson, reporter
For wide-ranging and enterprising education coverage that placed a high value on the human dimensions.
Judges said: “Hodgson is to be praised for getting out of the office — and getting away from education officialdom — in doing her beat coverage. Of particular note were features on a role-reversal classroom in which elementary students mentored their teachers in technology, and the triumph of a high school senior who overcame major mental-health obstacles on her path to graduation.”
The Daily Journal at Vineland
Kristi Funderburk, reporter
For exposing some questionable decisions by Vineland’s mayor and city solicitor, both of whom were involved in car accidents.
Judges said: “If you are planning on visiting Vineland anytime soon, steer clear of Mayor Robert Romano. He’s like a magnet for car accidents, the latest of which he claims resulted in serious injuries and damages while driving his city-owned vehicle. In a resulting lawsuit, the mayor said the crash prevented him from ‘pursuing his usual duties,’ but Funderburk’s story cites some specific activities that would suggest his claims were exaggerated. Facts and file photos in the presentation helped make the case.”
The Jackson Sun at Jackson, Tenn.
Tajuana Cheshier, reporter
For solid work covering school-related issues during a period of shrinking resources in higher education and sinking morale among public school teachers.
Judges said: “To be an education reporter these days is to keep one eye on the legislature and the other on local school administration. Cheshier succeeds at both. Of particular note in this submission was her tender feature on the approach of graduation day for Gordon Pierson, who has coped since age 2 with vaccine-associated polio. Pierson, who communicates via computer, nailed a 3.0 GPA at North Side High. A tale of triumph told sensitively and well.”
The News-Star at Monroe
Greg Hilburn, reporter
For tireless and restrained reporting on the threat posed by the Great Flood of 2011 on the levees meant to protect the fragile Louisiana land along the Mighty Mississippi.
Judges said: “Over the course of a month, Greg Hilburn traveled more than 1,000 miles along the river, following the surge and filing a series of informed and responsible stories. This was public-service journalism Cajun-style.”
Breaking News
Division I
First Place
Detroit Free Press
Joe Swickard, staff writer; Patricia Anstett, medical writer; Ron Dzwonkowski, associate editor; Detroit Free Press staff
Utilizing every means at its disposal, the Free Press provided a rapid and muscularly comprehensive response to the death of Jack Kevorkian, whose advocacy for assisted suicide engaged and enraged a nation. In harvesting comments from his defenders and detractors, the staff provided a proper sendoff to one of the most polarizing figures in American social history. In doing so, the Free Press broke a major national story online.
Judges said: “The cover-story treatment in print was reminiscent of the heyday of Time and Newsweek, a deadline summation of a major passing, written with urgency and balanced perspective. It stands as a reminder to us all of the importance of preparing obituaries and the need for time-tested writers to update them in a heartbeat.”
Finalists
The Arizona Republic at Phoenix
Staff
For coverage reflecting deep public-safety concerns over a rampaging wildfire in far eastern Arizona, a human-made disaster that threatened the community of Greer, a beloved tourist destination. Leveraging all available tools, the compelling deadline work of the Republic staff provided a fine example of how to get the word out quickly and well.
Judges said: “This was coverage with a beating heart, written and edited by journalists who clearly care about Arizona and its natural and human resources. An ensemble performance worthy of praise.”
Reno Gazette-Journal
Staff
For quick-response coverage of a horrific collision between a semi and an Amtrak train in rural Nevada. Same-day and next-day coverage of the deadly accident provided compelling visuals and eyewitness accounts from the middle-of-nowhere disaster scene.
Judges said: “This was good old-fashioned accident coverage made new, a solid job of reporting a story packed with human dimensions and consequences. Kudos for sharing the cost of a helicopter for overhead visuals; it was worth the expense.”
The Cincinnati Enquirer
Staff
For through-the-night online coverage of the death of Osama bin Laden and a midday extra with extensive updates.
Judges said: “Recognizing the heightened level of interest among its readers and users, the Enquirer staff pulled an all-nighter, updating a major international story with local implications, summoning resources and hitting the streets with a handsomely designed, cogently packaged, eight-page, ad-free special section. Reporter Jennifer Baker’s outreach to families of 911 victims added significantly.”
The Des Moines Register
Staff
For the staff’s response to a series of tornadoes that roared through five Northwest Iowa counties on a Saturday night in April, wiping out more than half the town of Mapleton. In words and pictures (both still and video), the Register documented the destruction and captured the human drama, serving print and online audiences with clear, responsible and detailed reports.
Judges said: “While we’ve all seen the devastation tornadoes can leave behind, we can’t remember ever seeing an image of a 21-foot camper swept off the ground and lodged between limbs of a tree. Or another tree, draped with pink insulation material, looking ‘like a giant stick of cotton candy,’ as a photo caption described Mary Chind’s photograph. This made you want to run for a storm cellar.”
Breaking News
Division II
First Place
The Star Press at Muncie
Andrew Walker and staff
For Andrew Walker and the Muncie staff for their comprehensive breaking news coverage of a church fire that killed a Muncie firefighter.
Judges said: “What made this effort so exceptional was the depth of the coverage and the obvious hustle. Not only did the staff provide fast, detailed breaking news coverage online, the print coverage — stories, photos, design — was deep and sophisticated, touching on a variety of important angles and sensitively capturing the grief of a family, a congregation and a community.”
Finalists
Poughkeepsie Journal
Staff
For the Poughkeepsie Journal staff’s fast and facile coverage of the deaths of a mother and her three children, who drowned when the woman drove her minivan into the Hudson River.
Judges said: “This story broke at midnight and staff members jumped on it fast, using all of the online tools available to them, including Twitter and Facebook, bringing the community into the discussion of the tragedy. The following day’s print edition did what the newspaper does best: it provided context, reactions and detailed background on the mother’s turbulent domestic situation.”
The Burlington Free Press
Sam Hemingway, Tim Johnson and Mike Donoghue, reporters
For coverage of the revelation that the wife of the president of the University of Vermont was involved with the school’s top fundraising official.
Judges said: “The reporters spent days tracking down tips and leads, not yet certain that a personal relationship was the public’s business. But when it became clear that the university board was taking action, the Free Press broke the story online and followed up with a comprehensive package in print that thoughtfully explored how a private matter had become a public concern.”
Argus Leader at Sioux Falls
John Hult, Josh Verges and Beth Wischmeyer, reporters
For coverage of an attempted prison escape that left a guard dead.
Judges said: “The Argus Leader’s online coverage of the attempted prison break quickly told readers what they needed to know. The reporters followed up in print with a profile of the murdered guard and important background about the history of the prison, tasks made more challenging by the refusal of officials to provide any details about the escape attempt.”
Springfield News-Leader
Staff
For the staff’s aggressive coverage of the deadly tornado that devastated Joplin, Mo.
Judges said: “Though Joplin is 90 miles from Springfield, editors made the right call on a Sunday night to treat the disaster as important local news. Online, the News-Leader produced some of the first detailed reports about the scope of the destruction and print editions in subsequent days offered a variety of powerful stories, images and graphics.”
Breaking News
Division III
First Place
The Daily Advertiser at Lafayette, La.
Staff
For the staff’s thorough and quickly developed coverage of the shooting deaths of two state insurance investigators by a small-town insurance agent who then killed himself.
Judges said: “The staff moved quickly to get to the scene of what had been described as a police standoff and posted a fast series of photos and updates. When the full picture became clear, reporters worked sources and the relatives of the shooter and the victims, a difficult task given the horrific nature of the crime. The Daily Advertiser’s tenacity and urgency in reporting multiple angles in print and online was exemplary.”
Finalists
The Jackson Sun at Jackson, Tenn.
Staff
For the staff’s coverage of two rounds of storms that tore through the Jackson area in April.
Judges said: “The staff provided fast and helpful early-morning text alerts to warn residents of the storm threat and provided updated alerts, tweets and school-closing announcements as the storms blew across the region. Newsy reports from the field and staff and reader-submitted photo galleries and video rounded out this strong coverage.”
The Leaf-Chronicle at Clarksville
Brian Eason, Tavia D. Green, Philip Grey, reporters; Alane Megna, opinion page editor, and staff
For coverage of a visit by President Barack Obama and Vice President Joe Biden to Fort Campbell, Ky.
Judges said: “Covering presidential visits can be a logistical nightmare, especially for a small staff, but the Leaf-Chronicle provided ambitious and wide-ranging coverage online and in print. Tweets from the speech and live-streamed video were just the start. The print edition featured the text of the president’s speech and a reaction piece by reporter Philip Grey, embedded with Fort Campbell soldiers in Afghanistan.”
News Journal at Mansfield
Jon Spencer, reporter; Larry Phillips, local desk editor and staff
For expansive coverage of Ohio State football coach Jim Tressel’s resignation.
Judges said: “When the announcement was made, the staff moved quickly to get the news online, then quickly assembled important supplemental material for print, including a helpful ‘How it went down’ timeline, fan reaction and a terrific story comparing Tressel’s departure with that of the legendary Woody Hayes.”
Fort Collins Coloradoan
Staff
For staff coverage that relied heavily on the website and social media to get out important information on a fast-moving wildfire early on a Sunday morning.
Judges said: “This entry showed the power of social media to not only provide information but to create a network of contributors providing constantly updated feeds of photos and observations from various places touched by the fire. A Twitter feed, live blog and 50 updates on the first day were among the stand-out efforts by the Fort Collins staff.”
Community Leadership
Division I
First Place
Detroit Free Press
Stephen Henderson, editorial page editor; Chris Christoff, Lansing bureau chief; Dawson Bell, Lansing bureau staff writer; John Gallagher, business writer; and staff
For its Just Build It” editorial campaign on why a new bridge was desperately needed to Canada from Detroit. The editorials explained who was blocking a private-public effort to build it (the owner of the aging Ambassador Bridge), who was supporting the anti-bridge crowd in Lansing and how much campaign money was coming from the anti-public bridge crowd.
Judges said: “This was bold leadership. The newspaper pointed fingers, named names, displayed the documents, did the watchdog reporting work and then proclaimed to its community ‘Enough already!’ The newspaper also provided readers with an easy-to-navigate website that included community voices, the watchdog reporting and ‘The Story So Far.’ “
Finalists
The Journal News at Westchester
Nancy Cutler, associate editor
For editorials that brought to light violence aimed at a man for choosing only to worship at a different synagogue. The columns scolded local officials for downplaying the incidents and demanded action from the Department of Justice’s Civil Rights division.
Judges said: “Saying the violence ‘evokes images of the worst violence and intimidation of the Civil Rights Movement,’ these editorials echo the best of Civil Rights-era newspapering: taking a stance, declaring something to be wrong, demanding it be made right and having the courage to do so.”
The Desert Sun at Palm Springs
Marcel Honore, reporter; and James Folmer, community conversations editor
For a series of tough editorials and watchdog news coverage regarding a waste dump that has sickened dozens and cast a terrible smell over several small communities. The effort resulted in a letter from Sen. Barbara Boxer pressuring the EPA to shut the dump down.
Judges said: “To the Desert Sun, the issue wasn’t just about a toxic dump. Its work reflected a larger narrative about small, impoverished communities often ignored by the state.”
The Arizona Republic at Phoenix
Staff
For The Republic’s dogged and ultimately successful effort in court and in the court of public opinion to get certain emails from Pima Community College regarding its dealings with Jared Loughner while he was a student prior to the Tucson shootings. The emails painted a troubling portrait of someone officials wanted to remove from class and expel from school.
Judges said: “The newspaper frequently explained to readers why it sought the emails. Of special interest was a ‘Right to Know’ box on the editorial page that outlined not just the Republic’s position, but also why the college was trying to block the release. The information was presented fairly and was no doubt helpful to readers during a troubling, tense time.”
The News-Press at Fort Myers
Staff
For engaging the reader nearly every step of the way as Lee County Schools sought a new superintendent. The News-Press used a range of tools to allow its readers to become involved in the search.
Judges said: “This is a big issue and The News-Press took a strong leadership role. Using its multimedia muscle and a commitment to involve the community, readers felt as if they were part of the process. A strong editorial endorsement topped off the effort.”
Community Leadership
Division II
First Place
The Star Press at Muncie
Douglas Walker and Keith Roysdon, reporters
For a robust four-week series on child abuse, giving voice not only to victims, caregivers and law enforcement, but also to an abuser who has vowed to reform. Relentless and resourceful reporting is at the heart of “For a Child’s Sake: The Epidemic of Child Abuse,” an attempt to raise discussion about an every-day issue that goes largely unspoken.
Judges said: “One highlight of this impactful series came in the first Sunday installment, with reporter Douglas Walker’s harrowing first-person essay detailing the physical and psychological abuse he endured as a child — at the hand of a man who became his mother’s second husband. Walker’s courageous admission set the tone for an ambitious and gutsy project.”
Finalists
Journal and Courier at Lafayette, Ind.
Sophia Voravong, courts reporter; David Smith, projects editor; Ron Wilkins, Opinions editor; and Michael Davis, executive editor
For enterprise reporting on a subset of society whose voice is seldom heard: the inmates of a crowded county jail. After reviewing more than 1,000 inmate complaints, reporter Voravong illuminated conditions at the jail and documented the tragic case of Charity Lekeia Brown, who now suffers from a rare disease as a result of receiving incorrect medication while incarcerated.
Judges said: “The Journal and Courier’s examination combined elements of watchdog and database reporting, documentary photography, cogent storytelling and dramatic design to share stories that would have otherwise gone untold. The community’s interests were well-served by this project.”
Poughkeepsie Journal
John Penney, community conversations editor
For advocacy editorials published in advance of an historic vote on legalization of same-sex marriage in New York.
Judges said: “John Penney’s passion for the topic, combined with his push to ask tough questions of elected officials, resulted in a series of editorials that stood up for citizens who were being denied their civil rights. His clear, clean, persuasive prose made a difference, not just in his community but statewide, as the deciding vote was cast by State Sen. Stephen Saland, a Poughkeepsie Republican.”
The Burlington Free Press
Adam Silverman, Green Mountain editor; and Joel Banner Baird, reporter
For creation and coverage of the Green Mountain Environmental Leadership Awards, given to innovators in environmental matters and to courageous environmental leaders in the community.
Judges said: “In words and pictures, the Free Press celebrated environmental advances in its community, providing a gallery of serious-minded and caring individuals who are making a difference. Quite a breath of fresh air.”
Pensacola News Journal
Travis Griggs, reporter
For a report on infants who died from accidental asphyxiation. Starting with a public-records request, Griggs fanned out into the community to investigate some of the stories behind 41 deaths of otherwise healthy infants since 2007, children who were squeezed to death sleeping next to a parent or who were suffocated by bedding.
Judges said: “By shining a light on unsafe conditions in ordinary homes, Griggs performed an important public service and raised a provocative question: Were the adults criminally negligent?”
Community Leadership
Division III
First Place
The Daily Journal at Vineland
Staff
For “Don’t take away our future,” a dramatic and powerful front-page editorial, and editorial cartoon, demanding that New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie restore funding to several critical programs in Vineland and Cumberland County.
Judges said: “The front-page editorial was passionate, but also to-the-point. It lauded the governor for some of his actions, but was clear in explaining why his actions would cripple Vineland. ‘Now is the time for Vinelanders to stand their ground and tell Gov. Christie he’s gone too far,” the newspaper wrote. Fortunately for its readers, the Daily Journal did just that.”
Finalists
The Daily Times at Salisbury
Deborah Gates, Liz Holland, reporters; Susan Parker, community conversations editor
For work that alerted readers that Rosa Parks Boulevard had become little more than a neglected dirt road. Ultimately, the community decided to name a different road, one that leads to a community center.
Judges said: “Scolding officials for their neglect, the newspaper wrote, ‘If this is the way (our icons) are honored, perhaps it’s just as well (officials) don’t make a habit of this.’ “
The Advocate at Newark
Seth Roy and Kent Mallett, staffers
For reporting and editorials about confusing and unannounced decisions by city officials that jeopardized the safety of local drivers, even to the point of the city police chief almost having an accident because of unfamiliar road-lane changes.
Judge said: “There was a healthy sense of a community’s disbelief in the newspaper’s editorial and in the reporting. The newspaper’s editorial expressed the frustration of a community by saying ‘Change can be good — but not last week’s.’ ”
The News-Star at Monroe
Greg Hilburn, reporter; Kathy Spurlock, executive editor
For the News-Star’s dogged reporting and editorials on the possibility that Monroe could lose political clout through re-districting. The reporting clearly explained to readers what was going on and why it was important.
Judges said: “Maps, clear reporting and strong editorial work gave readers a heads-up as to what was happening in Baton Rouge. This being Louisiana, a powerful food reference drove home the point: ‘If people of Northern Louisiana sit back and watch, we’re going to be served a platter of entrails while everyone else is eating steak and lobster.’ “
Outstanding Writing
Division I
First Place
The Indianapolis Star
Robert King, reporter
For Robert King’s report on the children in Public School 61. King spent a year in a kindergarten classroom in one of the city’s poorest neighborhoods and put faces to the statistics that are so common. In a few paragraphs, he makes the reader care about Charles Elliott, a child whom, despite a difficult homelife, is the brightest King has met, or the unnamed boy who struggles with an uncontrolled temper that made him a regular in the principal’s office, yet who ended the year as his teacher’s most improved student.
Judges said: “It is writing like King’s that goes beyond the dry facts and statistics and shows how some support and attention can go a long way in changing lives.”
Finalists
The Greenville News
Lillia Callum-Penso, reporter
For Lillia Callum-Penso’s great slice-of-small-town-life story about the Liar’s Bench. It’s the place where the town’s men, mostly peach farmers or former farmers, gather for the morning to discuss the state of the world.
Judges said: “She filled her story with quips and comments that showed us why the men — from several generations — continue to gather at the bench.”
Detroit Free Press
M.L. Elrick, Jim Schaefer and Joe Swickard, staff writers
For an in-depth report on Norman Yatooma, a flamboyant and controversial lawyer with a knack for phrases that stick with you. These writers combined to give readers an in-depth look into Yatooma’s life from viewpoints of his friends and enemies, as well as a look into controversies over his charities, billing practices and his own version of his personal history.
Judges said: “This team did a good job of separating myth from fact, using quotes and descriptions and Yatooma’s own quips to help readers discern who Yatooma might really be.”
The News-Press at Fort Myers
Francesca Donlan, reporter
For Francesca Donlan’s story of fifth-graders enrolled in an innovative dance program. The program’s goal is to teach children life lessons while building self-esteem, along with lessons in tango, fox trot and waltz. On the first day, the boys and girls — in one of the city’s poorest schools — don’t want to touch each other for fear of “cooties.” But soon, dance takes over as the children practice steps at home, at school and in odd moments during their day.
Judges said: “This writer shows us how the kids change during the program. She lets them speak in their own words and describes their growth as they gain confidence and learn the value of trying their best.”
The Tennessean at Nashville
Erin Quinn, reporter
For Erin Quinn’s report on 13-year-old Tabitha Tuders, who disappeared eight years ago while on her way to school. No trace of her has been found. Quinn talked to her parents, siblings and best friend to find how they have coped over the years, and how her disappearance has affected their lives.
Judges said: “Quinn conveyed the sense of loss and fear that Tabitha’s survivors feel in clear, concise language and without dipping into the maudlin. It is an intense look at the suffering of those who still miss Tabitha.”
Outstanding Writing
Division II
First Place
Statesman Journal at Salem
K. Williams Brown, reporter
For K. Williams Brown’s column, “The loneliness and loveliness of Missed Connections,” a whimsical, funny, tragic and all-too-human look at people trying to find each other on Craigslist after a missed encounter.
Judges said: “Not only is this a clever topic, but the writer connects with readers by inviting them to sit down next to her and together they can poke fun at the Craiglists posts, otherwise they’d cry at the loneliness the posts reflect. This is great writing.”
Finalists
Journal and Courier at Lafayette, Ind.
Amanda Hamon, reporter
For a Memorial Day story with a bit of a twist: looking at the parents of a soldier who died 42 years ago in Vietnam, the emotions they still go through and how they keep his memory alive.
Judges said: “The story begins with a powerful image — a fallen soldier’s father doing repairs to his memorial, and takes the reader through a sad tale with a solid narrative and a strong use of quotes.”
St. Cloud Times
Kate Kompas, news editor
For her column on Maria Shriver, a reflection on a mentor she never met, didn’t know and who she believes is being treated unfairly.
Judges said: “The column is written with a high-level of presumption — she doesn’t really know Maria Shriver, does she? No, but Kate Kompas knows her readers and knows that Shriver’s trouble with her husband can resonate as deeply in St. Cloud as it can anywhere else.”
The Star Press at Muncie
Douglas Walker, reporter
For a personal column on child abuse, his survival of it and his lingering feelings.
Judges said: “Walker’s writing is exquisite. He is chillingly matter-of-fact as he recounts his terrible step-father and his abuse of Walker and Walker’s mother. He allows the details to shock the reader. The ending, which recounts his step-father’s death, says it all: ‘I felt a sense of loss in that I hadn’t played a direct role in sending him to hell.'”
Asheville Citizen-Times
Barbara Blake, reporter
For a wonderfully understated but deeply compelling story on Asheville’s Laura Hope-Gill, who has gone through an astonishing amount of turmoil to become an accomplished poet.
Judges said: “The reporter captured a troubled creative spirit with her strong narrative and an effective use of quotes. ‘If we’re too rational,’ says the story’s subject, ‘we won’t heal.’ ”
Outstanding Writing
Division III
First Place
The Jackson Sun at Jackson, Tenn.
Lauren Foreman, reporter
For a compelling story about the murder of a well-known local businessman and its impact on a small, tight-knit community.
Judges said: “The reporter displays a keen sense of detail and dialog as she catches not only the family’s sense of loss, but that of the entire community. The story is gripping, tragic and impossible to put down.”
Finalists
The Daily Times at Salisbury
Gwenn Garland, special sections editor
For Gwenn Garland’s bittersweet column on the death of her pet rabbit, a subject that resonates deeply with her readers.
Judge’s comments: “What pet owner hasn’t felt this? ‘I looked out the kitchen window to his enclosure and he was so still. I knew. I knew but I couldn’t look. I couldn’t do it.’ This is writing that touches the heart.”
Iowa City Press-Citizen
Andy Hamilton, reporter
For splendid storytelling in a report on Iowa wrestling icon Dan Gable on the eve of a retirement celebration for the beloved coach.
Judge’s comments: “Hamilton shaped his subject well, using quotes from past wrestlers to highlight the nuances of Gable’s coaching. We learned a lot about his quirks and drive.”
The Leaf-Chronicle at Clarksville
Philip Grey, reporter
For an insider’s look at the return home from Afghanistan of the 101st Screaming Eagles. The reporter was embedded with the unit, which resulted in stories with strong detail.
Judge’s comments: “The story puts the reader in a crowded tent with the soldiers as they wait for their departure, and then on their long flight home. Nice atmospheric writing.”
The News-Star at Monroe
Greg Hilburn reporter
For compelling writing about the death of a worker on Transocean’s Deepwater Horizon oil rig and the impact it still has on his family one year after the disaster.
Judges said: “This is more than a typical anniversary story. The reporter catches not just a family still in mourning, but also its bitterness toward Transocean and BP. ‘The only time I heard from BP,’ the victim’s wife said, ‘is when they sent two representatives to a memorial and two potted plants.’ “
Visual Journalism
Division I
First Place
The Journal News at Westchester
Chris Brown, graphic artist; Frank Becerra Jr., visual journalist; Jill Mercadante, universal editor
For the print and online project “Costly detours,” an investigative report that outlined the millions in cost overruns of the I-287 road project.
Judges said: “The depth and sophistication of the visual journalism report, both in print and online, was stunningly impressive: a print double-truck photo/map outlined change orders while the online map gave readers a virtual ‘guided tour’ of the project, mile-by-mile, with a narration. More importantly, perhaps, is that no fewer than three investigations have been ordered by officials, following the reporting. This is must-see work for all newsrooms.”
Finalists
Detroit Free Press
Rick Nease, art director
For compelling artwork that accompanied a six-part series on a man accused of raping his 14-year-old autistic daughter. The haunting images were mixed media: drawings, photo references, 3D modeling and digital painting with custom brushes. The images were used in print and online.
Judges said: “The images were haunting and the perfect touch for the series. So powerful, they served as much as heart-stopping headlines, with different images heading different parts of the series. Memorable work.”
The News-Press at Fort Myers
Mike Donlan, designer; Amanda Inscore, photographer; Kevin Lollar, reporter
For re-creating the 1842 journey of a sailor through the Everglades during the last year of the Seminole Indian Wars. Online readers could follow two newspaper staffers as they paddled, hiked and drove their way from Fort Lauderdale to the Kissimmee River, following the path a sailor outlined in his diary.
Judges said: “The focus of the project was not just historical, but rather to give readers and viewers a then-and-now look at the Glades. An interactive map, a day-by-day report in print and other features made this project much more than just a history lesson.”
The Cincinnati Enquirer
Glenn Hartong, photographer; Jeff Williams, designer; Mike Nyerges, artist
For a special report, “P&G’s next frontier,” a look at the company’s aggressive moves to woo new customers in Africa. A special print section and multimedia effort focused on P&G’s efforts in Nigeria, with Enquirer staff going to Africa to report the initiative.
Judges said: “Strong visuals accompany and expand this informative work, so important to Enquirer readers. Online and print content shows how P&G is marketing its products in Nigeria and how the company is leveraging itself to take advantage of a growing middle class market.”
The Tennessean at Nashville
Staff
For a remarkable body of work, in print and online, that was a must-read for the thousands who attended the city’s CMA Music Festival. The newspaper’s print coverage was deep, its online coverage included artist profiles and schedule with a clip of each artist’s music and the Tennessean’s own playlists from the performers.
Judges said: “With schedules, profiles, artist playlists that could be accessed from a laptop, history and even autograph tips from Bill Anderson, the Tennessean brought a 21st-century coverage model to the 40-year-old event. As massive as the effort was, the Tennessean never lost sight of its goal: to help people navigate the big event.”
Visual Journalism
Division II
First Place
Springfield News-Leader
Staff
For extensive online and print visual reporting on the tornado that tore through Joplin, Mo.
Judges said: “The News-Leader made the right call by relying heavily on aerial photography to capture the appalling scope of the destruction left by the tornado as it tore through the heart of Joplin. By combining aerial shots with maps of the city, the News-Leader provided a compelling and detailed accounting of the damage. Ground-level photography of the aftermath and the emotional toll was also strong. The online and print graphics and design elements were powerful.”
Finalists
The Burlington Free Press
Modi Kwanza, designer; and Brent Hallenbeck, reporter
For capturing White River Junction’s arts scene in comic-strip form.
Judges said: “Too few publications take these kinds of risks, and when they do they don’t always pull it off. This effort is a winner because it perfectly mimics the conventions of comic-strip writing and cartooning.”
Wausau Daily Herald
Jeff Starck, reporter; Xai Kha, photographer; Elissa Holtmeier, presentation editor; Brian Otten, digital content manager
For “Walleye Wars,” a special report on spearfishing in northern Wisconsin that featured strong photos and visually compelling design.
Judges said: “The front-page photo by Xai Kha captured the spear-strike of a walleye in amazing detail, down to the freezing rain illuminated by the light on the fisherman’s hat. Gallery photos as well as those accompanying the print story put the reader out on that cold lake in the pre-dawn. An impressive effort.”
The Post-Crescent at Appleton
William Glasheen, photographer; Dwight Nale, senior editor/multimedia; Ed Berthiaume, senior editor/custom content
For an uplifting and compelling online and print project on the ordinary life of an extraordinary man, World War II veteran Robert Petrusa.
Judges said: “A wonderfully upbeat package that wisely got out of Robert Petrusa’s way and let him tell the story of his war service, his marriage and his life after the death of his wife. The video work was especially strong, enhanced by first-rate editing.”
Pensacola News Journal
Staff
For Pensacola’s report marking the one-year anniversary of the BP oil spill that fouled the Gulf Coast.
Judges said: “The News Journal’s review of the year included an impressive double-truck that presented 18 photos capturing some of the most significant moments, including the arrival of oily tar on pristine beaches, injured wildlife and volunteers scrubbing miles of sand. Online galleries, a collection of cartoons by Andy Marlette and two videos round out the comprehensive report.”
Visual Journalism
Division III
First Place
Oshkosh Northwestern
Dave Wasinger, digital news editor; Erin Wasinger, content manager
For coverage marking the 150th anniversary of the Civil War and its connections with Oshkosh.
Judges said: “This entry used the print and online platforms to their best advantage, giving depth and emotion to the package. The print presentation is attractive and clean. But what sets this entry apart is the online work by Dave Wasinger and Erin Wasinger. They created videos that included music, Civil War-era photos, along with modern day re-enactment photos overlaid with local historians reading letters written by Civil War soldiers.”
Finalists
The Jackson Sun at Jackson, Tenn.
Katie Brake, photographer; Brian Goins, page designer
For a well-populated photo gallery and video showing BMX racers and their families enjoying the races.
Judges said: “This photographer and page designer joined forces to create an attractive page for print, plus extensive photo galleries and a video, giving readers a variety of ways to enjoy the coverage.”
The Advocate at Newark
Michael Lehmkuhle and Jason Lenhart, photographers
For photos, video and a story marking a moment of life for Granville, Ohio, as a new bell tower is placed atop an historic church.
Judges said: “Michael Lehmukuhle and Jason Lenhart do a good job of showing the work being done, including comments from local people. The narration by the church’s pastor is to the point and helpful in understanding the historic value of the church. Good use of both platforms to tell the story differently.”
The Leaf-Chronicle at Clarksville
Jimmy Settle, reporter, and Chris Smith, news editor
For a Sunday story on highway problems that made good use of an interactive map.
Judges said: “This project provided information on accidents in an easy-to-read format for online viewers. A reader service.”
Fort Collins Coloradoan
Dawn Madura, photographer
For a package on late-night life in Fort Collins’ Old Town, enhanced by an online gallery by photographer Madura. An assault and drive-by shooting the weekend prior prompted the Coloradoan to dispatch a reporter and photographer to cover Friday night mayhem in Old Town.
Judges said: “Madura’s work shows better than words can tell what goes on after dark.”