Phoenix, Reno, Staunton Lead Fourth-Quarter Awards of Excellence
McLEAN, Va., Feb. 13 — U.S. Community Publishing today announced winners of its quarterly Awards of Excellence, which recognize the group’s best journalism for October through December 2013.
The Arizona Republic at Phoenix, The Desert Sun at Palm Springs and The News Leader at Staunton won top prizes for public service journalism. In the watchdog category, Phoenix, The Post-Crescent at Appleton and the Star-Gazette at Elmira set the standard.
The highest-performing news organizations, as measured by award citations, were:
Division I
Phoenix (six) and Cincinnati (five). Detroit, Nashville and Phoenix, with two each, had the most winners.
Division II
Reno, with seven citations, led the way. Burlington, Lafayette, Ind., Lansing and Poughkeepsie had three each. All three of of the Lafayette, Ind., citations were first-place winners in their categories.
Division III
Staunton won six categories outright. Ithaca and Lafayette, La., each had four finalists.
Design studios
Each of the five design studios won two awards.
Judges
Judges for the fourth quarter were:
– Leah Balconi, custom content designer, Rochester Democrat and Chronicle
– Sarah Crupi, projects director, Rochester Democrat and Chronicle
– Mark Dwyer, real time desk lead, Rochester Democrat and Chronicle
– Wendy Fullerton Powell, assistant managing editor, Fort Myers News-Press
– Sam Hall, assistant managing editor, The Clarion-Ledger, Jackson, Miss.
– John Kelly, Data & Joint Investigations Editor, USA TODAY Network National News Desk
– Barbara Leader, senior writer, The News-Star at Monroe
– Gene Myers, executive sports director, Detroit Free Press
– Scott Norris, , Rochester Democrat and Chronicle
– Rashaun Rucker, , Detroit Free Press
– Kathy Spurlock, executive editor, The News-Star at Monroe
– Brian Tolley, executive editor, The Clarion-Ledger, Jackson, Miss.
If you’d like to nominate a judge for future quarters, call Mackenzie Warren, who administers the awards programs.
Prize money
First Place winners receive the following prizes: For a First Place award where the newsroom is cited, the newsroom gets $250, through intracompany deposit. If an individual is named in the First Place award, that individual gets $250 through a payroll deposit. Up to four individuals may be cited and they will split the $250 prize. For winning entries that cite five or more staffers, the $250 will go to the newsroom.
Public service journalism
This category recognizes work that contributes to the community’s greater good and that is done by an individual, news staff or by the news organization as an institution.
The work could consist of journalism that address a community concern and prompts the community to address that concern. The effort could begin with journalism and then be furthered by a community leadership project in which your news organization champions a campaign or leads a conversation that identifies and weighs possible community action. Investigative and explanatory reporting may be elements of an entry, as may editorials or other opinion pieces. Print, digital and social media will often be used to help move the community forward. Efforts might include a public forum or an event, or a continuing campaign organized by or conducted under the auspices of the news organization that is based on the newsroom’s journalism. Entries should make clear the impact or results of the work.
DIVISION I
The Arizona Republic (Winner)
Staff
For The Arizona Republic’s exhaustive “In Harm’s Way,” an examination of how decades of public policy decisions have helped to make forest fires more dangerous to fight and more costly to taxpayers, answering key questions about why the disasters keep happening, what went wrong and what can be done about it. The special report showed readers about how similar disasters would continue without changes to where and how people build and how forests and wildlands are managed.
Judges said: A powerful staffwide effort on an important issue that has gripped Arizona and the West. The Republic’s effort excelled on several fronts, from the exclusive data-gathering and analysis effort that one academic compared to PhD-caliber work, to the depth of the reporting, to the engaging, brilliant display of photos, videos and graphics in print and online. In the end, the Republic educated the readers and has helped set the agenda for Arizona government officials heading into a legislative session.
To see the work:
hotshots.azcentral.com
Digital links for Building in Harm’s Way:
https://www.azcentral.com/news/wildfires/yarnell/arizona-wildfires-homes-forests-risk/
https://www.azcentral.com/news/wildfires/yarnell/arizona-wildfires-homes-forests-risk/Animation shows Arizona building in the wildland-urban interface
https://www.azcentral.com/news/projects/wildfires/wui.php Animation shows growing number of Arizona wildfires
https://www.azcentral.com/news/projects/wildfires/history.php Videos from the series
https://www.azcentral.com/news/wildfires/yarnell/arizona-wildfires-homes-forests-risk/videos.html
Alone on the Hill:
hotshots.azcentral.com Arizonans of the year:
https://www.azcentral.com/opinions/articles/20131229yir-yarnell-hill-fire-volunteers-2013-arizonan-year.html
The Indianapolis Star (Finalist)
Alex Campbell, Eric Weddle, Marisa Kwiatkowski and Robert King, reporters
Reporters Alex Campbell, Eric Weddle, Marisa Kwiatkowski and Robert King for exposing dangers faced by children across the state of Indiana because of serious gaps in the regulatory system for day cares and the lasting public service of a searchable database on indystar.com of inspections and complaints that the Star pledges to update twice a year.
Judges said: A remarkable team effort pulling together four regular beat reporters to go after a serious problem important to a target audience, Indiana’s “busy families.” The reporters used public records, traditional reporting and gripping storytelling, in words and video, to draw readers’ attention to a systemic failure to protect the most vulnerable of Indiana’s residents. Outstanding public-service journalism in an extremely competitive category.
To see the work:
https://www.indystar.com/article/20131004/INTERACTIVE01/310040043
https://www.indystar.com/picture-gallery/news/2013/10/05/lax-day-care-laws-endanger-children/2928961/
https://www.indystar.com/story/news/2013/10/05/tracking-deaths-at-day-cares-is-not-easy-in-indiana-or-nation/2926081/
https://www.indystar.com/story/news/2013/10/06/indiana-legislators-seek-day-care-reforms-for-some-/2934253/
https://www.indystar.com/story/news/2013/10/15/day-care-panel-runs-into-brick-wall-/2990715/
https://www.indystar.com/story/news/2013/10/20/day-care-inspectors-sometimes-see-problems-look-the-other-way-its-indiana-law/3117139/
https://www.indystar.com/story/news/investigations/2013/10/26/toddlers-death-in-church-day-care-reveals-gaps-in-indiana-child-care-laws/3270191/
https://www.indystar.com/story/news/2013/11/02/3-month-olds-death-didnt-shut-down-unlicensed-home-day-care-/3394927/
https://www.indystar.com/story/news/politics/2013/11/17/day-care-reform-opponent-wields-clout/3617967/
https://www.indystar.com/story/news/2013/11/19/indiana-legislators-seek-to-strengthen-day-care-laws/3645839/
The Cincinnati Enquirer (Finalist)
NaLisa Bernard-Kuhn and Mark Curnutte, reporters; Glenn Hartong, video producer; Carrie Cochran, photojournalist; Randy Essex, senior editor/news
Lisa Bernard-Kuhn, Mark Curnutte, Glenn Hartong, Carrie Cochran and Randy Essex for their expose on the country’s dramatic shift in the past 15 years to using prescription opioids and how that trend is not only causing deaths, but isn’t working for patients, as well as the newspaper’s community service campaign that included the purchase and placement of 10 prescription drug drop boxes to help residents get dangerous drugs out of their homes.
Judges said: The Enquirer team drew readers into complex material by telling the personal stories of people grappling with the consequences of painkillers and by using outstanding digital presentation of the reporting and additional educational material. Great writing, excellent digital packaging and stellar headlines showed the team’s attention to every detail. The newspaper’s journalism, combined with its do-something-about-it drop-box effort, represents exemplary service to its community.
To see the work:
https://local.cincinnati.com/community/pages/pain/index.html Experts who shared it: https://twitter.com/davidjuurlink/status/417272122214334464 https://twitter.com/ahcj_pia/status/413760859878354944 https://twitter.com/crbestbuydrugs/status/413414178943434752 https://twitter.com/chcosts/status/413396627203043328
DIVISION II
The Desert Sun at Palm Springs (Winner)
Ian James, reporter, Desert Sun; Valerie Gibbons, reporter, Visalia Times-Delta and Dennis L. Taylor, reporter, Salinas Californian
For reporters from three California newspapers — Ian James of The Desert Sun, Valerie Gibbons of the Visalia Times-Delta and Dennis L. Taylor of the Salinas Californian — for their groundbreaking series that revealed significant declines in groundwater levels in the Palm Springs area and throughout much of California. “Aquifiers at Risk” exposed how water agencies in the California desert have failed to get a grip on the problem of falling water tables.
Judges said: Ingenious use and analysis of public data about nearly 3,400 wells across California to uncover a major public health issue. The team expanded the public service reach of its work through the collaborative efforts of journalists at all of Gannett’s California newspapers, resulting in immediate policy changes by water suppliers.
To see the work:
www.mydesert.com/water
Reno Gazette-Journal (Finalist)
Staff
For the Reno Gazette-Journal’s persistent and courageous insistence that public officials release the identity of a 12-year-old schoolhouse shooter, who injured two students, killed a popular teacher and then himself. The RGJ’s relentlessly pursued the release of the boy’s name in an effort to accurately explain to readers the events that led up to and might have contributed to the shooting.
Judges said: With a divided readership asking tough questions about the RGJ’s motives, the publisher and editor worked hard to explain their quest and their reasons in a Page 1 editorial and via social media. Ultimately, the release of the young man’s identity led the family to talk exclusively to the Gazette-Journal about their son and what happened, leading to further public understanding of a tragic community event.
The Clarion-Ledger at Jackson, Miss. (Finalist)
Staff
To the staff of The Clarion-Ledger for dogged reporting on an insurance-hospital standoff that threatened coverage for thousands of residents and an expose of the arbitrary prices hospitals charge for procedures.
Judges said: Deep, revelatory journalism that explained to readers how hospital and insurance company policies drove their bills. The work went beyond just reporting, by showing readers how to translate their bills, how to take on providers and insurance companies over questionable charges and otherwise be smarter consumers. The reports were bolstered by an online database that allowed readers to look up standard charges for common procedures at hospitals across the state, so they could see the wide variations in price before making costly decisions.
To see the work:
Interactive database: https://www.clarionledger.com/interactive/article/20131006/OPINION03/131005009/Interactive-Compare-medical-costs-Mississippi-hospitals
DIVISION III
The News Leader at Staunton (Winner)
Michael Neary and Calvin Trice, staff writers; Jennie Coughlin, online editor; Deona Houffstaff, community conversations editor
To Michael Neary, Jennie Coughlin, Calvin Trice and Deona Houff for digging into systemic failures by the local mental health agency in the wake of a high-profile stabbing of a state senator by his son. Questions raised in the report led to three state investigations and changes in the state’s mental health delivery system.
Judges said: Great example of enterprise reporting off a breaking news event, building on the expertise of a plugged-in beat reporter. The journalists recognized public officials’ explanations of events did not add up and set out to show how known problems in the mental health system were not being addressed.
To see the work:
https://www.newsleader.com/apps/pbcs.dll/artikkel?Dato=20131119&Kategori=NEWS01&Lopenr=101140003&Ref=AR
https://www.newsleader.com/apps/pbcs.dll/artikkel?Dato=20131119&Kategori=OPINION01&Lopenr=101140002&Ref=AR
https://www.newsleader.com/apps/pbcs.dll/artikkel?Dato=20131120&Kategori=NEWS01&Lopenr=311200021&Ref=AR
https://www.newsleader.com/apps/pbcs.dll/artikkel?Dato=20131101&Kategori=NEWS01&Lopenr=101170003&Ref=AR
https://www.newsleader.com/apps/pbcs.dll/artikkel?Dato=20131123&Kategori=NEWS01&Lopenr=311230017&Ref=AR
https://www.newsleader.com/apps/pbcs.dll/artikkel?Dato=20131123&Kategori=NEWS01&Lopenr=311230020&Ref=AR
https://www.newsleader.com/apps/pbcs.dll/artikkel?Dato=20131123&Kategori=NEWS01&Lopenr=311230018&Ref=AR
Media Network of Central Ohio (Finalist)
Russ Zimmer, enterprise reporter
For Russ Zimmer’s statewide effort to delve into the impact of hospital consolidation across Ohio, then tailored his reporting to inform readers of the unique consequences to them in each of the Ohio’s network’s 10 news organizations.
Judges said: The reporter took on a complex topic encompassing health care, business and public policy and helped readers understand what was happening with their community hospitals, telling them what it meant for them and their communities as some tried to remain independent and others were acquired by large chains. Good reporting and excellent graphics to deliver impactful data.
Daily Record at Morristown (Finalist)
Lorraine Ash and Michael Izzo, reporters
To Lorraine Ash and Michael Izzo for their in-depth reporting on two public service projects in the quarter — one about an increasing number of heroin arrests and overdose deaths and a second about how poverty was claiming more families in one of the most affluent counties in the United States.
Judges said: Ambitious effort by reporters and editors, using personal stories and data analysis to open the eyes of community leaders about two developing problems. The work inspired community members and churches to take action.
Watchdog journalism
This category recognizes investigative journalism that uncovers wrongdoing or malfeasance by individuals, businesses, charities, public officials, public agencies, institutions that serve the public,
or by those who do business with the government or public. The work holds individuals, businesses, agencies and institutions accountable for their action or inaction. The work may protect the safety and welfare of individuals. Entries should make clear the impact or the results of the journalism.
A broad range of reporting techniques and resources are used to produce watchdog journalism, including database and records analysis in addition to comprehensive reporting and interviewing. Watchdog work uses both print and digital storytelling approaches and engages audience members.
DIVISION I
The Arizona Republic at Phoenix (Winner)
Bob Ortega, Rob O’Dell, Daniel Gonzalez, senior reporters; Nick Oza, photographer
To Bob Ortega, Rob O’Dell, Daniel Gonzalez and Nick Oza for their investigation that showed that U.S. Border Patrol Agents who used deadly force faced few if any consequences, even when justifications for the shootings appeared questionable.
Judges said: Powerful print and digital reporting in the wake of an unarmed Mexican teen’s death. The reporters filed more than 120 FOIA requests and analyzed thousands of pages of records, built an exclusive database of cases,and shared their work with readers via interactive maps and graphics as well as the gripping stories and videos of the people impacted.
Asbury Park Press (Finalist)
Shannon Mullen, staff writer
To Shannon Mullen for a pair of exemplary watchdog reports following the money behind the superstorm Sandy recovery. Mullen exposed backdoor deals that used Sandy recovery funds to help the re-election efforts of local politicians.
Judges said: Excellent effort by a reporter to track how recovery money is being spent. All the more notable is that the reporter followed up a week later with a second report revealing how charities that raised millions in the wake of the storm were not getting money to those who needed it.
The News-Press at Fort Myers (Finalist)
Melanie Payne, watchdog reporter/columnist
For reporter Melanie Payne’s reporting on how the local Habitat for Humanity affiliate was foreclosing on 10 percent of the homes it had helped provide for low-income families, which was five times the foreclosure rate of other Habitat affiliates across Florida and region and conflicted with the agency’s advertised reports of a foreclosure rate of less than 2 percent.
Judges said: Kudos to the reporter and her editors for a willingness to take on a beloved community organization and ask hard questions when that organization’s efforts miss the mark and hurt families. Payne’s report was tough, but fair, and she documented what she found thoroughly so that readers would understand what went wrong and why. She asked hard questions, showed how Habitat’s approach in her county was leading to a much higher rate of foreclosure than the group’s counterparts in neighboring counties and other parts of the state.
To see the work:
Video: Harsh reality hits home with Habitat for Humanity
https://www.news-press.com/videonetwork/2735422529001/Harsh-reality-hits-home-with-Habitat-for-Humanity
Interactive Map: Habitat for Humanity foreclosures in Lee County
https://www.news-press.com/interactive/article/20131013/NEWS01/131012010/Interactive-Map-Habitat-Humanity-foreclosures-Lee-County
DIVISION II
Gannett Wisconsin Media (Winner)
Eric Litke, investigative reporter
To investigative reporter Eric Litke for a statewide report showing that not even beloved Green Bay Packers players are above scrutiny. In “Champions & Charities,” Litke dove deep into data revealing to the public for the first time the financial details behind more than 50 charities tied to Wisconsin athletes, including some that were violating tax laws or not meeting widely accepted financial standards for charity groups.
Judges said: The reporter and his editors opened the eyes of charitable givers who might not otherwise have known what was becoming of money they were donating to their favorite sports stars’ charities. Great presentation in print, including graphics breaking down the finances and charitable giving of each charity. Online, readers could research for themselves how money was being spent by more than 50 charities before making decisions about giving.
To see the work:
Landing page:www.postcrescent.com/charities
Database:https://post.cr/KlVVSD
Live chat transcript:https://post.cr/1iwAtcw
Video interview 1:https://post.cr/1eO3fCj
Video interview 2:https://post.cr/1mcpDJ4
Video interview 3:https://post.cr/19xonNo
Video grand jury:https://post.cr/1i2aB8t
The Desert Sun at Palm Springs (Finalist)
Erica Felci, reporter
To reporter Erica Felci for showing readers the extent of unfunded pension liabilities for the Coachella Valley’s nine cities, three water agencies and various special districts as well as the causes why it appears the nearly $350 million in unfunded liabilities will continue to grow despite pension reforms in recent years.
Judges said: The reporter persisted for a year in the collection and analysis of extensive public records and data, giving readers a look at a problem that has helped lead other cities to bankruptcy. The work was complemented with a strong digital component including an interactive database of public pension payments dating back to 2006.
To see the work:
https://www.mydesert.com/pension
Montgomery Advertiser (Finalist)
Josh Moon, staff writer
For reporter Josh Moon’s investigation of a suspicious contract, involving more than a half-million dollars in payments by a state university to a politically-connected company, whose home base appeared to be nothing more than a rented mailbox in a postal store. The reporting showed how the company had reported more than $1 million in cost overruns for which the university will never be reimbursed and continued to be paid even after its problems were found out.
Judges said: Persistence and good public-records sleuthing by a reporter who noticed something that didn’t seem quite right in a throw-away line in a state audit. Further digging showed the hunch was right and the reporter and his editors used records and good sourcing to give readers a detailed profile of the troubled company and its principals, raising serious questions about why the university kept sending sizable checks.
DIVISION III
Star-Gazette at Elmira (Winner)
Jason Whong, reporter
Reporter Jason Whong showed how New York and Pennsylvania residents could be endangered because there are no laws requiring property owners to disclose to buyers or renters that a meth lab formerly operated in a building or home, potentially exposing to serious health hazards.
Judges said: An unusual, but important topic for inquiry. And a special report that got results fast. State legislators in both states are taking up an effort to require disclosure and the New York governor’s office reached out to the reporter because of his expertise.
To see the work:
https://www1.shoom.com/PDFView/PDFView.aspx?ref=30&pgID=56750079
https://www1.shoom.com/PDFView/PDFView.aspx?ref=30&pgID=56750086
https://www1.shoom.com/PDFView/PDFView.aspx?ref=30&pgID=56750087 https://www.stargazette.com/article/20131214/NEWS01/312170001/Cleaning-up- https://www.stargazette.com/interactive/article/20131213/WIDGET/131213005/Interactive-Map-Meth-labs-busted-region
https://www.stargazette.com/apps/pbcs.dll/gallery?Avis=CB&Dato=20131214&Kategori=NEWS01&Lopenr=312140043&Ref=PH
The Ithaca Journal (Finalist)
David Nutt, reporter, Bruce Estes, senior editor, Meghin Delaney, reporter, Bob Jamieson, reporter and Joanne Walsh, designer
To the staff of the Ithaca Journal for its extensive reporting on how the state and federal government had put front-line educators in a difficult spot by failing to get them needed information and supplies in time to implement the new Common Core education standards and leading to unexpected costs for local taxpayers.
Judges said: Reporters and editors dove deep into an issue impacting every student and parent in the area and one that hit on their passion topic of “assessing government spending and performance.” The work focused on real-life examples of the impacts on teachers, parents and taxpayers, so people could understand the stakes of the new standards.
To see the work:
https://www2.shoom.com/PDFView/PDFView.aspx?ref=30&pgID=56034943 https://www2.shoom.com/PDFView/PDFView.aspx?ref=30&pgID=56034948https://www2.shoom.com/PDFView/PDFView.aspx?ref=30&pgID=56034949
Innovation
As we serve increasingly sophisticated audiences in an increasingly competitive media environment, innovation is part of everyone’s job. The point of this category is to reward journalists whose ingenuity led to better coverage and better outcomes for readers. Examples of appropriate nominations might be: clever uses of new storytelling tools, creative ways to engage audiences and other advances that create new value, particularly for subscribers; or an improvement in a process or structure that created greater capacity for doing good journalism despite constrained resources.
DIVISION I
The Cincinnati Enquirer (Winner)
C. Trent Rosecrans, Reds beat writer; Angel Rodriguez, sports editor; Nick Hurm, assistant sports editor, Kate McGinty, director/news content marketing
For mixing baseball and beer, personality and promotion to engage young professionals on their home turf. The Enquirer sought to reach its young and mobile target audience by staging baseball events in a downtown watering hole favored by these very people. The Enquirer created a clever name – The C Dot Show, a play off the names of the website (Cincinnati.com) and the Reds’ beat writer (C. Trent Rosecrans) – and a logo in the style of a band poster. Coasters and pint glasses were ordered. A promotional campaign started on social media. A comedian agreed to co-host. A new-age stats geek signed on as the first guest. And then 75 people showed, and 1,500 downloaded the ensuing podcast. … So the Enquirer did it again at RedsFest and again at the bar. The third time attracted 20,000 to the podcasts. Plans call for monthly events and to focus on podcasting as another revenue stream.
Judges said: Sounds like the Enquirer has had a better offseason than the Redlegs! And it’s not over yet: The Enquirer is negotiating a promotional campaign in which show attendees would display their Cincinnati.com mobile app to get a pint of beer.
To see the work:
Here is a link to a blog post from redreporter.com, a local blog made up of young Reds fans. https://www.redreporter.com/2013/11/22/5135018/red-reporter-field-trip-going-to-motr-for-the-c-trent-event Podcasts on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/the-c-dot-show-podcast/id766050094?mt=2 C Dot Show on Podomatic: https://thecdotshowepisode1.podomatic.com/ Story promoting C Dot Show, with video and podcast links: https://cincinnati.com/blogs/reds/2013/12/16/check-out-the-c-dot-show-at-motr-pub-on-tuesday/ Video of the RedsFest show: https://cincinnati.com/blogs/reds/2013/12/16/check-out-the-c-dot-show-at-motr-pub-on-tuesday/
The Courier-Journal at Louisville (Finalist)
Chris Feldmann, digital graphic artist; Jesse Hazel, programmer and Jennie Rees, racing writer
For an interactive game of dress-up that combines horse racing, “The Price is Right” and reader engagement. The Courier-Journal spent months following an apprentice jockey, as she completed her first year on the circuit, who wanted something fresh and different. That became “Spend A Buck, Dress A Jock,” which let users see how much it cost to equip and clothe a jockey for a year. It covered the 14 categories of clothing or equipment that jockey had to purchase.
Judges said: Simply an imaginative way to entertain, inform and capture digital readers. Spoiler alert: The Courier-Journal found it cost about $4,500 to clothe and equip an apprentice jock – money that comes out of her pocket. The judges enjoyed playing the game and benefited from the hints but never came close to the winner’s circle. We really wanted the prize: a video from the jockey thanking and congratulating us. We certainly would have shared THOSE results via the game’s social media component.
To see the work:
https://datacenter.courier-journal.com/interactives/2013/spendabuck/ https://www.courier-journal.com/broussard
The Arizona Republic at Phoenix (Finalist)
Staff
For reaching the Explore Arizona consumer where they are – or where they are planning to go. The Republic considers Explore Arizona – to help consumers find the best places to eat, play and stay in 14 key destinations, including Greater Phoenix – one of its top passion topics. This content flows into print coverage, onto desktop, on broadcast and social media channels. In the fall, smart phone and tablet were added to that suite of platforms. User-friendly top-10 lists are supplemented with almost 150 videos and slideshows. Additionally, a partnership with Local First Arizona included deals alongside some of the recommendations.
Judges said: The top-10 lists provide quick-hit yet authoritative direction. And underscore that it’s built for people on the go, people who want information at their fingertips. The videos and slideshows add a wow factor.
To see the work:
https://www.azcentral.com/exploreaz/
Detroit Free Press (Finalist)
Staff
For unleashing the soul of a sports fan for the things he or she likes to do best: talk, discuss, debate. The Free Press developed a deep roster of innovative digital tools to strengthen readers’ sense of being empowered in debate and in their rapport with the website. In the toolbox: Bracket challenges (think NCAA pool) on subjects like best uniform and best fight song; flash polls on news and moves; quizzes about the hot team; ranking tools that allow readers to do their own top 10 teams in all sports; web chats with staffers and local sports figures; and several others.
Judges said: Michigan State beats Michigan for best fight song? You can’t pay for controversy like that on your website. Get the blood boiling and get the masses engaged. It’s an exceptional mission to empower fans and interact with them on a daily basis.
To see the work:
https://www.freep.com/article/99999999/SPORTS01/120816037/ https://www.freep.com/article/99999999/SPORTS08/120904053 https://www.freep.com/article/99999999/SPORTS18/120906059/ https://www.ferrisstatebulldogs.com/information/releases/freepresswin13
DIVISION II
The Greenville News (Winner)
Bill Fox, new media editor; Lyn Riddle, staff writer and Mykal McEldowney, photographer
For taking a remarkable print series about the homeless in the community and turning it into an even more remarkable digital package. GreenvilleOnline designed and built a way to integrate the extraordinary words, photos and videos into a seamless series of chapters. (The News’ metrics showed that readers spent 75,000 minutes with the series – that’s more than 52 days.)
Judges said: It was like reading an eBook and not a website. The videos and photos of down-on-their-luck people living under a highway overpass were heart-wrenching.
To see the work:
https://greenvilleonline.com/homeless
Statesman Journal at Salem and Phoenix Design Studio (Finalist)
Stefanie Knowlton, staff writer and Michelle Maxwell, senior editor
For highlighting the “giving” over the “thanks” on Thanksgiving morning. The Statesman Journal published its Catalog of Giving, an eight-page, advertising-free tab and an elaborate online package that allowed more than 70 area non-profits to share their wish lists of needed items. The project was designed by the Phoenix Design Studio in a manner that evoked the Old Farmer’s Almanac and the Whole Earth Catalog.
Judges said: Simply an incredible way to be a leader in the community, to ask readers to give thanks for their blessings by giving to others. In the end, the Statesman Journal figures $50,000 was donated in goods and services during the holiday season. Plus, brought to the community’s attention were dozens of small charities and agencies – organizations that couldn’t afford marketing, promotion and advertising.
To see the work:
https://www1.shoom.com/PDFView/PDFView.aspx?ref=30&pgID=56442868
https://www.statesmanjournal.com/viewint/article/20131127/NEWS/131127017/Lookbook-Statesman-Journal-s-Catalog-Giving
https://www.statesmanjournal.com/section/special11
St. Cloud Times and Des Moines Design Studio (Finalist)
Staff
For using the Frozen Four to warm the hearts of readers through new technology. After the St. Cloud State Huskies’ breakthrough season, the Times transformed its coverage into its first native app – St. Cloud State University Hockey: 2012-13 Shooting Star Season – and then into an eBook – “SCSU Hockey’s 2012-13 Shooting Star Season.” The Des Moines Design Studio did the design heavy lifting using video, text and photos created and edited in St. Cloud.
Judges said: The Huskies may well have a slew of great hockey seasons in the future. But nothing beats the excitement from the first true championship run, as St. Cloud State won the WCHA for the first time and reached the Frozen Four for the first time. Kudos to the Times for finding every way possible to shout to its readers that nobody provides the depth or breadth of Huskies coverage than it does.
To see the work:
The e-book is available from a number of vendors, including Amazon.com. Amazon offers a sample at https://amzn.to/KFVNhs
Poughkeepsie Journal (Finalist)
Staff
For using the guise of scaring people as a way to engage young readers and to provide educational fun. The Journal’s annual “Scary Stories” contest invites children in four school grades to submit their original Halloween stories and illustrations. That drove an interactive, innovative website with wide-ranging content and software expertise, all designed to provide family activities that are educational, safe and wholesome. In addition, teachers told the Journal that several local school classes use Scary Stories as a learning tool, making it a class project that focuses on imagination, creative writing and drawing.
Judges said: They’re creepy and they’re hokey. Mysterious and spooky. They’re all together ooky. … The special touches and attention to detail in this project are mindboggling. On the website, for instance, there’s a werewolf as a narrator, a spider that descends, a trio of games, kids telling their stories, photo galleries and a list of every single entrant so no child is left out.
To see the work:
https://www.poughkeepsiejournal.com/scarystories
DIVISION III
The News-Star at Monroe (Winner)
Kathy Spurlock, executive editor; Greg Hilburn, business editor and Margaret Croft, chief photographer
For finding another way to capitalize on a local phenomenon – “Ducky Dynasty” – by publishing an eBook about the amazing popularity of the family. The News-Star used its stories and photos stretching back to Phil Robertson’s days as a quarterback at Louisiana Tech. The News-Star even tapped Alan Robertson, once the “beardless brother,” to write the foreword. “Call to Fame” is a compilation of news stories, features, photographs and anecdotes published by the News-Star Media Group as the Robertson family of West Monroe, La., turned its Duck Commander and Buck Commander businesses into a top-rated television series and multiple businesses.
Judges said: Talk about seeing the forest from the trees. The News-Star posed the question: We’re writing almost daily about the “Duck Dynasty” family, and the metrics are always good on the stories, photos and videos. So how can we capitalize on this? Voila! Here are two reviews from Amazon about “Call to Fame.” “As recent events in the news have verified, these folks are for real! I enjoyed the perspective of the hometown newspaper covering the rise of an American phenomenon.” “Good reading! From editor of local newspaper. We are proud of the Robertsons!”
Times Herald at Port Huron (Finalist)
Staff
For engaging readers and raising attention for Breast Cancer Awareness Month through a Flat Stanley project. The Times Herald wanted to ask readers to show in photos the places they supported breast cancer awareness. The Times Herald wanted to provide a prop – a pink ribbon seemed the obvious choice. But buying and inserting pink ribbons turned out to be expensive and complicated. The solution? Do a pink ribbon sticker – like the advertising stickers already utilized in our publications – and find a sponsor for it to boot.
Judges said: The topper for us was the Times Herald’s decision to donate $1 to two local breast cancer charities for each photo submitted to its Facebook page. What a way further to connect with its community and to show it cares.
Beat Coverage
This award is designed to highlight the local expertise relentless journalism for which we are known. Judges will look for mastery of a coverage area that has been determined to be essential to one or more of your news organization’s target audiences. Judges will give extra weight to examples where ongoing beat coverage led the journalist to break news and beat your competitors.
DIVISION I
Rochester Democrat and Chronicle (Winner)
Gary Craig, reporter
For Gary Craig’s extraordinary use of deep sourcing and knowledge of his beat to break complicated stories while simultaneously reporting on other major happenings on the crime beat.
Judges said: Gary Craig reaped the benefits of deep, trusting relationships with sources to allow readers to understand court proceedings when the court indicted four men in a local development corporation scandal. Craig’s expertise made the complicated story understandable and interesting to readers. Meanwhile, Craig also juggled other major stories — working his sources to obtain the final letter written by a killer, a federal murder case involving a triple murder, billing irregularities by attorneys and insights into the sex slave trade. And that’s just the beginning. Craig exhibited an incredible awareness and command of his beat.
To see the work:
https://www.democratandchronicle.com/topic/906a3dbb-9f78-427a-b50c-7588fd663f9d/ldc-investigation/
The Des Moines Register (Finalist)
Staff
For a multi-platform approach by The Des Moines Register business staff to help readers understand what happened to create a financial crisis.
Judges said: A coordinated effort by business reporters included videos, interactive charts, stock analysis and a question-and-answer format along with a month-long series of reports and digital exclusives to look back at the 2008 financial crisis. Reporters talked to financial experts and Iowans struggling to find jobs to give readers a wider understanding about what happened and whether it can happen again.
To see the work:
See the landing page: https://www.DesMoinesRegister.com/FinancialCrisis Digital content of particular note: The interactive chart: https://www.desmoinesregister.com/interactive/article/20131004/BUSINESS/101150001/Iowa-s-economic-indicators Interactive poll graphics: https://www.desmoinesregister.com/interactive/article/20131004/NEWS/101150002/Financial-Poll Survey to readers: https://www.desmoinesregister.com/viewart/99999999/business/130917011/Recession-form Video introduction to the series: https://www.desmoinesregister.com/videonetwork/2717690106001 Video interview with Principal CEO: https://www.desmoinesregister.com/videonetwork/2743658681001 Video of small business: https://www.desmoinesregister.com/videonetwork/2785291161001
The News Journal at Wilmington (Finalist)
Staff
For a coordinated and thorough effort by the News Journal’s staff to use all platforms to help readers understand the city’s high crime rate.
Judges said: Reporters for The News Journal at Wilmington worked together to present a complete and interactive picture that helped readers identify the impact of crime on neighborhoods and how despite promised reforms and new strategies crime rates remain among the highest in the country for a city its size.
To see the work:
https://php.delawareonline.com/news/evergreen/crime/?odyssey=mod|dnmiss|umbrella|3
DIVISION II
Argus Leader at Sioux Falls (Winner)
John Hult, reporter
For John Hult’s criminal justice reporting.
Judges said: John Hult’s work brings fresh approaches to reporting about law enforcement and crime, looking behind the statistics and telling stories about the hopes and fears of individuals charged with protecting our communities. His subjects tell the story, whether it’s the weight of the responsibility of keeping a community safe to the temptations of authority. Excellent work — fascinating reading.
To see the work:
https://jhult.tumblr.com/
https://www.argusleader.com/section/patrolling
Tallahassee Democrat (Finalist)
Staff
For staff coverage of the sexual battery claim against Heisman Trophy winner Jameis Winston.
Judges said: Kudos for the Democrat staff for thorough, deep and multi-platform coverage when Jameis Winston was accused of sexual battery. Coverage went far beyond a Florida State football player being accused of a crime and delved deeply into the performance of law enforcement and government officials. The staff displayed fairness to the subjects and sensitivity to the intense passion surrounding FSU football throughout these stories.
To see the work:
No charges against Winston, lawyer denies wrongdoing Sean Rossman and Jeff Burlew https://www.tallahassee.com/article/20131114/news01/101160001/ FACEBOOK POST: https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10153443482645082&set=a.394876370081.362244.55529405081&type=1 Winston case renewed Nov. 13 Sean Rossman and Jennifer Portman https://www.tallahassee.com/article/20131120/NEWS01/101150002/ VIDEO: https://www.tallahassee.com/videonetwork/2851893718001 GABORDI BLOG: https://on.tdo.com/1g248Xj FACEBOOK POST: https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10153478139950082&set=a.394876370081.362244.55529405081&type=1 Family says TPD warned woman about Winston case Jennifer Portman https://www.tallahassee.com/article/20131121/news01/101160002/ FACEBOOK POST: https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10153482487860082&set=a.394876370081.362244.55529405081&type=1 VIDEO: https://www.tallahassee.com/videonetwork/2855627116001 ENSLEY COLUMN: https://www.tallahassee.com/article/20131115/columnist04/101160003 ‘This was a rape,’ contends complainant Jennifer Portman https://www.tallahassee.com/article/20131122/news/101160004 FACEBOOK POST: https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10153493259915082&set=a.394876370081.362244.55529405081&type=1 VIDEO: https://www.tallahassee.com/videonetwork/2856430601001 FLEMMING COLUMN: https://www.tallahassee.com/article/20131121/opinion05/101160005 Case Closed No charges filed against FSU’s Winston, questions remain about investigation Jennifer Portman and Jeff Burlew https://www.tallahassee.com/article/20131206/news01/101160006/ FACEBOOK POST: https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10153546146655082&set=a.394876370081.362244.55529405081&type=1 VIDEO: https://www.tallahassee.com/videonetwork/2897582086001 The athlete’s go-to attorney Jennifer Portman https://www.tallahassee.com/article/20131216/NEWS01/312160027 FACEBOOK POST: https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10153583628010082&set=a.394876370081.362244.55529405081&type=1 VIDEO: https://www.tallahassee.com/videonetwork/2928448332001 Another blowout: Winston wins Heisman with 668 first-place votes Ira Schoffel https://www.tallahassee.com/article/20131215/fsu03/312150018 FACEBOOK POST: https://www.facebook.com/tallahasseedemocrat/posts/10153578309340082 VIDEO: https://www.tallahassee.com/videonetwork/2935908351001 SCHOFFEL COLUMN: https://www.tallahassee.com/article/20131213/FSU03/312130033/Schoffel-column-Winston-doesn-t-need-another-set-blockers
Reno Gazette-Journal (Finalist)
Chris Murray, Nevada sports columnist
For Chris Murray’s coverage of high school sports that extends beyond the playing field.
Judges said: We’re not sure how he found time during high school football season, but Chris Murray managed to take a hyper-local, off-the-field approach to sports coverage in northern Nevada. He spent more than 80 hours researching and interviewing for a project that identified the top four athletes to come out of each high school dating back decades. In another selection, he tells the story of Brandon Wimberly, a wide receiver whose football career (and life) were almost ended before they began.
To see the work:
https://www.rgj.com/relart/20131229/PREPSPORTS/312290037
DIVISION III
The News-Star at Monroe (Winner)
Sean Isabella, sports writer
For Sean Isabella’s coverage of the Grambling State University football program’s woes.
Judges said: With coaching changes, deteriorating finances and crumbling facilities, football players at Grambling decided to make the world listen to them by boycotting practice. That escalated into the team failing to show up to travel to its game with Jackson State.
Lancaster Eagle-Gazette (Finalist)
Jeff Barron, reporter and Carl Burnett Jr., assistant editor/reporter
For Jeff Barron and Carl Burnett Jr.’s consistent pursuit of the story that broke with the arrest of a clerk of court.
Judges said: Jeff Barron and Carl Burnett Jr. began the quarter with the arrest of both the Fairfield County Clerk of Court and her husband on felony charges. The pair followed the story as the clerk refused to resign despite her arrest, finally resigned and the county navigated the legal hurdles to replace her. Great sourcing kept these reporters ahead of the competition, breaking news every step of the way.
The Ithaca Journal (Finalist)
David Nutt, reporter
For David Nutt’s body of work that displayed deep understanding of his beat.
Judges said: David Nutt’s collection of work explained the complicated issues behind education’s Common Core standards, conveyed the emotion that filled the room in a local PTA meeting where parents expressed concern over school violence and discussed post-secondary research projects with a depth of detail that showed a strong command of a wealth of education topics that matter to parents and taxpayers.
Content Programming: Breaking News
This category is designed to reward smart, deliberate packaging and delivery of breaking news content. It’s important to note that “breaking news” can be spot events or big natural disasters, but it can also be news you break exclusively based on ongoing reporting. Judges will weigh three factors: 1) How the content was tailored for audiences on various platforms, as appropriate; 2) how the time of day and week influenced the editing choices and 3) how your team shaped the breaking news coverage to the specific concerns of each of your target audiences.
To see the work:
**Nov. 9, 2013, 1A, 6A, 7A Common Core https://www2.shoom.com/PDFView/PDFView.aspx?ref=30&pgID=56034943 https://www2.shoom.com/PDFView/PDFView.aspx?ref=30&pgID=56034948 https://www2.shoom.com/PDFView/PDFView.aspx?ref=30&pgID=56034949 **Nov. 30, 2013, 1A, 7A Struggling students connected to tutors https://www1.shoom.com/PDFView/PDFView.aspx?ref=30&pgID=56473046 https://www1.shoom.com/PDFView/PDFView.aspx?ref=30&pgID=56473052 Cut and paste video ID into browser: 2842352850001 Nov. 6, 2013, 1A, 5A Reported threats at school frustrate parents https://www1.shoom.com/PDFView/PDFView.aspx?ref=30&pgID=55920161 https://www1.shoom.com/PDFView/PDFView.aspx?ref=30&pgID=55920164 Oct. 9, 2013, 1A, 5ADressed to Live (Cornell tech/fashion students team up) https://www1.shoom.com/PDFView/PDFView.aspx?ref=30&pgID=55335487 https://www1.shoom.com/PDFView/PDFView.aspx?ref=30&pgID=55335491 October 21, 2013, 1A CU researcher’s ultra-thin glass is 2 atoms thick https://www1.shoom.com/PDFView/PDFView.aspx?ref=30&pgID=55586949 https://www1.shoom.com/PDFView/PDFView.aspx?ref=30&pgID=55586953
DIVISION I
Detroit Free Press (Winner)
Staff
For the staff’s immediate and exhaustive reporting after a federal judge ruled the city would be eligible to file for bankruptcy protection. The team published more than 30 articles, two livestreams, a half-dozen videos and a comprehensive social media presence.
Judges said: The Free Press’ coverage of Detroit’s bankruptcy was a clear winner in a tough field, notable for the richness and sophistication of its reporting, as well as its speed and urgency. Next-day print coverage had a distinctly fresh feel from day-of digital content.
The News-Press at Fort Myers (Finalist)
Staff
For the staff’s coverage of the cocaine possession arrest of U.S. Rep. Trey Radel, and the swift fall that followed.
Judges said: The News-Press team was relentless in its reporting of the Radel scandal, and did a tremendous job driving — and owning — the conversation on social media. Coverage was enhanced by a collaboration with USA Today and The News-Press reporting was backed by no-holds-barred editorial voice.
To see the work:
Nov. 20 More mailbag letters https://www.news-press.com/article/20131120/OPINION/311200046/Mailbag-More-letters-editor-Trey-Radel Editorial: Radel must resign https://www.news-press.com/article/20131121/OPINION/131120009/Editorial-Radel-must-resign Trey Radel to take leave, ask for forgiveness https://www.news-press.com/article/20131121/NEWS0110/311210038/Trey-Radel-take-leave-asks-forgiveness Work for House district will continue, even in Radel’s absence https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/2013/11/20/trey-radel-staff-cocaine-sting/3658011/ Trey Radel: “I have no excuse for what I’ve done” https://www.news-press.com/interactive/article/20131120/NEWS01/131120016/Trey-Radel-no-excuse-what-ve-done-?nclick_check=1 Trey Radel’s plea agreement and other documents https://www.news-press.com/interactive/article/20131120/NEWS01/131120002/Trey-Radel-s-plea-agreement-other-documents Trey Radel would have faced more severe charges in Florida https://www.news-press.com/article/20131121/NEWS01/311220004/Trey-Radel-would-faced-more-severe-charges-Florida Trey Radel begins process to mend fences https://www.news-press.com/article/20131121/NEWS01/311210039/Trey-Radel-begins-process-mend-fences Social media reaction to Radel’s arrest https://www.news-press.com/article/20131120/NEWS01/311200022/Social-media-reaction-Radel-s-arrest Sheriff Mike Scott says he’s not after Trey Radel’s seat https://www.news-press.com/article/20131120/NEWS01/131120003/Sheriff-Mike-Scott-says-he-s-not-after-Trey-Radel-s-seat Radio producer says Radel often talked about cocaine https://www.news-press.com/article/20131120/NEWS01/131120010/Radio-producer-says-Radel-often-talked-about-cocaine Radel’s dad: ‘I’m behind you 100 percent’ https://www.news-press.com/article/20131120/NEWS01/131120014/Radel-s-dad-m-behind-you-100-percent- Radel’s wife asks for privacy https://www.news-press.com/article/20140114/NEWS01/101140017/Radel-wife-s-asks-privacy Radel says he’s sorry, but won’t resign https://www.news-press.com/article/20131120/NEWS01/131120021/Radel-says-he-s-sorry-won-t-resign Radel checks into Naples alcohol and drug addiction treatment center https://www.news-press.com/article/20140114/NEWS01/101140016/Radel-checks-into-Naples-alcohol-drug-addiction-treatment-center Local reaction to Radel’s arrest https://www.news-press.com/article/20131120/NEWS01/311200021/Local-reaction-Radel-s-arrest Jon Stewart and Stephen Colbert tackle Trey Radel’s cocaine arrest https://www.news-press.com/interactive/article/20131121/NEWS01/131121003/Jon-Stewart-Stephen-Colbert-tackle-Trey-Radel-s-cocaine-arrest Boehner declines to say whether Trey Radel should resign; ethics complaint field https://www.news-press.com/article/20131121/NEWS01/131121012/Boehner-declines-say-whether-Trey-Radel-should-resign-ethics-complaint-filed?gcheck=1 Video: District 19 congressional candidate Trey Radel talk about his run for office (Old, Top Nov video) https://www.news-press.com/videonetwork/1736582733001/District-19-Congressional-Candidate-Trey-Radel-talks-about-his-run-for-office Trey Radel exits a DC courtroom after guilty plea (WINK) https://www.news-press.com/videonetwork/2854079351001/Trey-Radel-exits-a-DC-courtroom-after-guilty-plea Trey Radel reaches out to young people through hip hop https://www.news-press.com/videonetwork/2854586459001/Trey-Radel-reaches-out-to-young-people-through-hip-hop Radel to take leave of absence after cocaine plea (In collaboration with USATODAY & VPC) https://www.news-press.com/videonetwork/2855233469001/Radel-to-take-leave-of-absence-after-cocaine-plea Highlights: Trey Radel’s press conference on cocaine arrest https://www.news-press.com/videonetwork/2855680864001/Highlights-Trey-Radel-s-press-conference-on-cocaine-arrest Trey Radel news conference: “No excuse for what I’ve done” https://www.news-press.com/videonetwork/2855243640001/Trey-Radel-news-conference-No-excuse-for-what-I-ve-done- Facebook Nov. 20 https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10151686748901534&set=a.430536206533.231441.7850621533&type=1&theater https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=10151686822851534&id=7850621533&stream_ref=10 https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=10151686910091534&id=7850621533&stream_ref=10 https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=10151687030586534&id=7850621533&stream_ref=10 https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10151687052906534&set=a.430536206533.231441.7850621533&type=1&stream_ref=10 https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=10151687196626534&id=7850621533&stream_ref=10 https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10151687351341534&set=a.430536206533.231441.7850621533&type=1&stream_ref=10 https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10151687439021534&set=a.430536206533.231441.7850621533&type=1&stream_ref=10 https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10151687817211534&set=a.430536206533.231441.7850621533&type=1&stream_ref=10 https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10151688035731534&set=a.430536206533.231441.7850621533&type=1&stream_ref=10 https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=10151688123631534&id=7850621533&stream_ref=10 https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10151688168831534&set=a.430536206533.231441.7850621533&type=1&stream_ref=10 https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10151688205096534&set=a.430536206533.231441.7850621533&type=1&stream_ref=10 Facebook Nov. 21 https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10151688748831534&set=a.430536206533.231441.7850621533&type=1&stream_ref=10 https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10151688929046534&set=a.430536206533.231441.7850621533&type=1&stream_ref=10 https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10151689141846534&set=a.430536206533.231441.7850621533&type=1&stream_ref=10 https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10151689327456534&set=a.430536206533.231441.7850621533&type=1&stream_ref=10 https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10151689644501534&set=a.430536206533.231441.7850621533&type=1&stream_ref=10 https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=10151689806201534&id=7850621533&stream_ref=10
The Cincinnati Enquirer (Finalist)
Staff
For the staff’s balanced, comprehensive coverage of the fight over streetcars in the downtown area. Coverage was notable not only for the quality of the coverage, but for how the staff communicated in advance its plans to maximize reach.
Judges said: City council reporting at its best. The staff did an excellent job explaining and analyzing the pros and cons and provided double-digit hours of livestreaming at public hearings, news conferences and, of course, the vote itself. An added bonus: A “talk to your government” tool that let readers send their thoughts directly to representatives.
To see the work:
First public hearing, live. Will the council stop the project? (of course you can no longer see the live video but Cover It Live is here…) https://news.cincinnati.com/interactive/article/20131204/CINCI/312040062/Watch-live-2-p-m-Will-streetcar-project-come-halt-?gcheck=1&nclick_check=1 The final day of debate, live: https://news.cincinnati.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/AB/20131219/NEWS01/312190069/ Facebook announcement: https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10152488564564698&set=a.102214399697.112704.36808884697&type=1 Final decision coverage: https://news.cincinnati.com/article/20131219/NEWS010801/312190096/Suspense-whispers-meetings-City-Hall-streetcar-decision-day How the deal went down column: https://news.cincinnati.com/apps/pbcs.dll/artikkel?Dato=20131219&Kategori=BIZ&Lopenr=312190132&Ref=AR
DIVISION II
Reno Gazette-Journal (Winner)
Staff
The Reno Gazette-Journal staff for their coverage of what is easily a community’s worst nightmare — a fatal shooting at school. The staff provided continuous updates on the RGJ website and social media to keep the community informed as this tragedy unfolded.
Judges said: The Gazette-Journal’s coverage evolution of the school shooting is a textbook example of how breaking news should be handled. During the event, their live updates online and using social media kept readers up-to-date, a valuable service with a tragedy like this. The staff clearly dedicated itself to getting the complete story, exampled by the interviews they were able to get from students. Most impressive, however, was how they pulled everything together in print. The narrative of the shooting was powerful, and they made excellent use of quote rails and sidebars. They should also be congratulated for a strong front-page editorial demanding law enforcement release the name of the shooter.
To see the work:
https://on.rgj.com/Itvj1c https://on.rgj.com/17VMouw https://on.rgj.com/1jLKu1P https://on.rgj.com/1igwL7B
Poughkeepsie Journal (Finalist)
Staff
For staff coverage of a father who killed his wife and children before taking his own life. Developments played out over a three-day period, and the Journal’s team was on top of the story every step of the way.
Judges said: The Journal excelled at peeling back the layers of this story as it developed, establishing itself as the go-to source over three days. Strong social presence from several of its journalists connected the staff to the community in a way that could have come off sensationalistic or mawkish in less capable hands.
To see the work:
www.PoughkeepsieJournal.com/lodhi
Lansing State Journal (Finalist)
Staff
For the staff’s coverage of the ice storm that left tens of thousands of Michigan residents without power for days.
Judges said: A great example of work that serves the greater good of the community. The Lansing team’s work was highlighted by its focus on helping residents navigate the chaos and stay safe.
To see the work:
lsj.com/icestorm
DIVISION III
The Daily Advertiser at Lafayette, La. (Winner)
Staff
For The Advertiser’s gripping and thorough coverage of a family who tracked down a kidnapper and brought a loved one to safety.
Judges said: The Advertiser staff compiled an impressive body of work on a serious and difficult story. Reporter Anastasia Semien and photographer Leslie Westbrook showed remarkable instincts by joining family members searching for their kidnapped loved one, despite the family having been told to leave the searing to authorities. This allowed them incredible access that led to first-hand interviews and powerful images. Tremendous job handling a range of issues: the manhunt, the killing of the kidnapping suspect, complaints of law enforcement inaction and the recovery of the kidnapped woman. Well covered across social media, online, video and in print.
To see the work:
Twitter Permalinks: https://twitter.com/theadvertiser/status/398891286729863168 https://twitter.com/theadvertiser/status/398880189629095936 https://twitter.com/theadvertiser/status/398876796181303296 https://twitter.com/theadvertiser/status/398875693691318272 Videos: https://www.theadvertiser.com/videonetwork/2817645151001/Family-pleads-for-kidnapper-to-return-his-son-s-mother https://www.theadvertiser.com/videonetwork/2821061930001/Sheriff-s-office-details-Arceneaux-rescue-investigation https://www.theadvertiser.com/videonetwork/2820416254001/SWAT-team-standoff-over-kidnapping https://www.theadvertiser.com/videonetwork/2820732695001/Bethany-Arceneaux-Rescued-in-Duson https://www.theadvertiser.com/videonetwork/2822017170001/Abducted-victim-Bethany-Arceneaux-s-family-reacts-to-finding-her-alive https://www.theadvertiser.com/videonetwork/2824969215001/Baby-Rescued-As-Woman-is-Attacked https://www.theadvertiser.com/videonetwork/2829207233001/Walk-through-of-Duson-house-where-Bethany-Arceneaux-was-found
The Leaf-Chronicle at Clarksville (Finalist)
Jimmy Settle, business editor; Chris Smith, senior editor and Richard Stevens, editor and general manager
For Jimmy Settle, Chris Smith and Richard Stevens’ coverage of an upcoming economic development announcement that would bring 1,800 jobs to the area over the next four years.
Judges said: The staff at The Leaf-Chronicle was able to follow up its summer exclusive about a Korean auto-supplier looking at Clarksville for a new plant when Korean media reported a company was headed to Tennessee. The Leaf-Chronicle broke the story online and social media, followed by a detailed story in print. Their coverage of the announcement was presented across all platforms, including a blog post from the executive editor. Not only did they break the story, they stayed on it to own the coverage of the major announcement as well.
To see the work:
Tweets:https://storify.com/LeafChronicle/hankook-tire-news
Announcement event video:https://bcove.me/j4arzv8f
Announcement event gallery:https://leafne.ws/L7gdAa
Blog by editor:https://blogs.theleafchronicle.com/richardstevens/2013/10/14/a-big-victory-for-clarksville/
Herald Times Reporter (Finalist)
Suzanne Weiss, reporter; Sarah Kloepping, videographer ; Sue Pischke, photojournalist and Jordan Tilkens, digital desk producer
To the Herald Times Reporter for coverage of a tragic road rage accident that left a 19-year-old dead and a 22-year-old facing five felony charges. Suzanne Weiss, Sarah Kloepping, Sue Pischke and Jordan Tilkens broke the story online and provided continuous updates througout the day before repackaging for print with in-depth stories and good digital promos.
Judges said: This is a tragic story itself, but The Herald Times Reporter tied it to a larger concern over accidents at this wreck’s location, which helped broaden the appeal and importance of the story. They also did a solid job with online and social updates. They provided digital readers with looks inside the court proceedings with video reports. Print packages tied everything together nicely and gave sizable promos to additional digital coverage. Good job.
To see the work:
https://www.htrnews.com/videonetwork/2854700358001/Manitowoc-man-charged-in-road-rage-crash-that-killed-1 https://www.htrnews.com/videonetwork/2866718220001/Raw-video-Man-charged-in-road-rage-crash-appears-in-court https://www.htrnews.com/videonetwork/2889767559001/Raw-video-Road-rage-driver-back-in-court https://www.htrnews.com/videonetwork/2943810836001/Lishka-bound-over-for-trial-in-road-rage-crash https://www.htrnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/gallery?Avis=U0&Dato=20131120&Kategori=MAN01&Lopenr=311200337&Ref=PH https://www.htrnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/gallery?Avis=U0&Dato=20131125&Kategori=MAN01&Lopenr=311250230&Ref=PH https://www.htrnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/gallery?Avis=U0&Dato=20131217&Kategori=MAN01&Lopenr=312170284&Ref=PH
Content Programming: Planned Content
This category is designed to reward journalists for smart, deliberate packaging and delivery of planned coverage. The work rewarded in this category could range from how you present a recurring section to how, over all, you approach a passion topic or target audience is approached over a longer period. Judges will weigh three factors: 1) How the content was tailored for audiences on various platforms, as appropriate; 2) how the time of day and week influenced the editing choices and 3) how you connected the content to target audiences and passion topics. It’s important to note there will be cases where the smartest packaging and delivery for our readers did NOT have components on every single platform. Judges look for precise and purposeful choices, which you should explain in the entry.
DIVISION I
The Des Moines Register (Winner)
Mike Kilen, reporter; Chris Gannon, multimedia journalist and Nancy Goheen, digital graphic designer
For a comprehensive and emotional look at the toll war took on a National Guard unit and members’ friends and families, told across digital and print mediums with equal and effective impact.
Judges said: The greatest compliment you can give work as emotional as this is, “You made me cry.” Reading about Hailey, her father and his parents, “You made me cry.” Incredible work capturing the stories, the triumphs, the pain, the sacrifice and — ultimately — the spirit of this unit.
To see the work:
https://www.desmoinesregister.com/section/valor
Asbury Park Press (Finalist)
Staff
For coverage of the one-year anniversary of Hurricane Sandy, an in-depth look at the impact on people, the rebuilding efforts, money spent, money to be spent and the path forward.
Judges said: This was an exhaustive effort by Asbury Park. It clearly was well planned and executed. Going back to revisit people interviewed in the days after Sandy was a great way to introduce the section. The research and authoritative writing really gave it impact. APP’s packaging online is an excellent example of how in-depth, impactful material should be set apart and maintained for readers. Great job on that, especially.
To see the work:
https://www.app.com/section/SPECIAL18
Rochester Democrat & Chronicle (Finalist)
Staff
For coverage of the one-year anniversary of a man’s murdering his sister and two firemen, doing so by telling the story of his sister — whose death had largely been overlooked due to the circumstances of the investigation — and revealing details of the killer’s letter.
Judges said: Using the letter to recount the tragic events of the year before was an effective way of telling the story. The transparency from the paper as to why they chose to publish only excerpts also should be applauded.
To see the work:
https://www.democratandchronicle.com/videos/news/2013/12/24/4188095/ https://www.democratandchronicle.com/story/news/local/2013/12/23/a-reporters-memories-of-the-webster-ambush/4183137/ https://www.democratandchronicle.com/story/news/local/2013/12/22/out-of-the-ashes-lake-road-rising/4168247/ https://www.democratandchronicle.com/story/news/2013/12/20/call-to-cheryl-spengler-let-me-know-youre-ok/4145027/ https://www.democratandchronicle.com/videos/news/local/2013/12/21/4156237/ https://www.democratandchronicle.com/story/news/local/2013/12/22/gunman-william-spenglers-last-letter-reveals-bizarre-tirade/4156865/ https://www.democratandchronicle.com/story/news/local/columnists/moss/2013/12/22/watchdog-column-why-we-wrote-about-spenglers-letter/4156913/ https://www.democratandchronicle.com/story/news/local/2013/12/22/christmas-eve-ambush-provides-hard-lessons/4156969/ https://www.democratandchronicle.com/videos/news/local/2013/12/22/4156263/ https://www.democratandchronicle.com/interactive/3885961/ https://www.democratandchronicle.com/picture-gallery/news/local/2013/12/22/rebuilding-lake-road-from-ashes/4142345/ https://www.democratandchronicle.com/story/news/local/2013/12/22/webster-firefighter-shootings-christmas-eve-lake-road/4162959/
DIVISION II
Journal and Courier at Lafayette, Ind. (Winner)
Staff
For a wide-ranging look at drinking among Purdue University students that included telling video components to help better illustrate the realities of “The Breakfast Club” and drinking culture on the college campus.
Judges said: Fantastic approach to this story. Lacing raw video of Saturday morning drinking before the day’s game with follow-up interviews really helped viewers see first-hand the topics about which school and city officials were talking. The stories ranged from looks at students, officials and business owners, to cab drivers who shared tales. Well done.
Poughkeepsie Journal (Finalist)
Staff
For coverage of a hospital’s financial woes and eventual declaration of bankruptcy. What started as routine coverage of personnel changes and administrative adjustments led the Journal staff to dig deeper and prepare exhaustive coverage of what could be a monumental economic development and health care disaster.
Judges said: The Poughkeepsie Journal knew something more was going on just below the surface when a hospital CEO retired and then minor financial issues were made public. Their dogged digging into this issue allowed them to get an exclusive report of the hospital’s decision to file bankruptcy and be acquired by its rival. Reporting went beyond the obvious news angles to include a historic look at the hospital.
To see the work:
www.poughkeepsiejournal.com/stfrancis
The Burlington Free Press (Finalist)
Nancy Remsen, staff writer
For comprehensive coverage of the launch of Vermont’s health care exchange and, in particularly, for the Free Press’ use of Facebook to provide additional conversations about the issue.
Judges said: Burlington took a straight-forward approach to covering the launch of Vermont’s health care exchange — weekly Sunday stories with accompanying digital presence — and gave it a twist by creating a Facebook group where they drove readers to join in an ongoing conversation about the exchange and health care reform. Great idea for using social media to expand not only your coverage but your interaction with readers.
To see the work:
Facebook forum: https://www.facebook.com/groups/222748614551714/
DIVISION III
The News Leader at Staunton (Winner)
Beth Arsenault, DPC team leader; Merry Eccles, designer; Jennie Coughlin, online editor; David Fritz, executive editor
For the print and digital execution of an 8-part series on a little girl’s unsuccessful fight with cancer.
Judges said: Excellent planning and collaboration that allowed a moving story to get the play it deserved, both in print and online, and maximize its impact.
To see the work:
https://www.newsleader.com/losingnorah
The Ithaca Journal (Finalist)
Staff
For the staff’s work on a series of stories planned for Thanksgiving that highlights individuals in the community who give back to their hometown in some way.
Judges said: This series is highlighted by strong community engagement and participation. Love that the series included a call to action and listed ways readers moved by the series could get involved and make a difference as well.
To see the work:
Nov 28, 2013 1A, 7A Headline: GIVING BACK: Mom-daughter team to carry on tradition https://www1.shoom.com/PDFView/PDFView.aspx?ref=30&pgID=56370717 https://www1.shoom.com/PDFView/PDFView.aspx?ref=30&pgID=56370723 Cut and paste video ID into browser: 2841820509001 Nov 29, 2013 1A, 5A Headline: GIVING BACK: Yao has a passion for volunteering https://www1.shoom.com/PDFView/PDFView.aspx?ref=30&pgID=56393528 https://www1.shoom.com/PDFView/PDFView.aspx?ref=30&pgID=56393535 Cut and paste video ID into browser: 2842379694001 Nov 30, 2013 1A, 7A Headline: GIVING BACK: Struggling students connected with tutors https://www1.shoom.com/PDFView/PDFView.aspx?ref=30&pgID=56473046 https://www1.shoom.com/PDFView/PDFView.aspx?ref=30&pgID=56473052 Cut and paste video ID into browser: 2842352850001 Dec. 2, 2013 1A, 5A Headline: GIVING BACK: Two men coach Tompkins children into adults https://www1.shoom.com/PDFView/PDFView.aspx?ref=30&pgID=56473172 https://www1.shoom.com/PDFView/PDFView.aspx?ref=30&pgID=56473176 Cut and paste video ID into browser: 2881055026001 Dec 3, 2013 1A, 5A Headline: GIVING BACK: Called to serve https://www1.shoom.com/PDFView/PDFView.aspx?ref=30&pgID=56492771 https://www1.shoom.com/PDFView/PDFView.aspx?ref=30&pgID=56492775 Dec 4, 2013 1A, 5A Headline: GIVING BACK: An energy for giving https://www1.shoom.com/PDFView/PDFView.aspx?ref=30&pgID=56511756 https://www1.shoom.com/PDFView/PDFView.aspx?ref=3 Cut and paste video ID into browser: 2859713369001
Narrative Writing/Voice
This category recognizes outstanding writing from any coverage area. The category honors powerful and tightly written news and feature stories as well as columns, blogs, profiles, longer narratives and any examples of evocative writing regardless of platform.
The work will exhibit strong subject knowledge and be based upon complete and sometimes analytical reporting. Key components will typically be clarity, a sense of place, context and detail. Where appropriate, characters will be well-developed and pacing will lead readers through longer pieces. The writing may move readers emotionally, prompt them to think or drive them to act.
DIVISION I
The Arizona Republic (Winner)
Karina Bland, senior reporter
For Karina Bland’s compelling account of the death of Yarnell Hill Firefighter Billy Warneke and his wife Roxanne’s struggle to recover.
Judges said: Bland’s vivid descriptions puts readers on the couple’s front porch in the shoes of the firefighter who must deliver the news of Billy’s death and follows it through the investigation of the fire. The birth of the couple’s baby, Billie Grace, and the construction of the home Billy designed. Great details combined with the widow’s point of view make this;story that evokes emotions from joy to despair.
To see the work:
https://www.azcentral.com/news/arizona/articles/20131231yarnell-fire-warneke-baby-part1.html
The Arizona Republic (Finalist)
Kristina Goetz, reporter
For Kristina Goetz’s story of a pre-war love affair, the couple’s life together and how the World War II veteran handles the couple’s first separation in 30 years.
Judges said: Goetz intertwines a love affair between World War II veteran Frank and his wife Scotty with an Honor tour of the World War II memorial in Washington, D.C., by 28 veterans. Frank, who was separated from Scotty for the first time in 30 years, chronicles the trip in an audio love letter. Goetz allows readers to eavesdrop on the couple while telling the stories of the other 27 veterans. Compelling video, family photographs and vivid storytelling elevate this story far above the usual “veterans go to Washington” coverage.
To see the work:
https://www.azcentral.com/news/arizona/articles/20131107world-war-two-veteran-phoenix-washington.html
The Cincinnati Enquirer (Finalist)
Dan Horn, reporter
For Dan Horn’s extraordinary story of the long-term impact of sexual abuse on a family and a community.
Judges said: Horn’s deep access to a family’s long-term suffering from one member’s sexual abuse at the hands of a trusted neighbor allowed the audience to see and understand how many lives had been altered forever by this crime. This was an intimate story few journalists ever have the opportunity to write, and it was bolstered by a poignant video interview and dozens of family photographs. Readers were able to see how families can pull a curtain of silence over the victims, whose pain continues to fester until it becomes unbearable.
To see the work;
https://local.cincinnati.com/community/pages/abuse/index.html
DIVISION II
Journal and Courier at Lafayette, Ind. (Winner)
MaryJane Slaby, reporter
For MaryJane Slaby’s sensitively written account of the last days of Daniel Kline and the in-depth reporting woven into the story detailing the process of organ donation.
Judges said: MaryJane Slaby captured not only the horrible shock of the loss of a 23-year-old man, but also the gut-wrenching choices a family must make when someone has been declared brain-dead. The detail with which she was able to document Daniel Kline’s final hours and his family’s decision to go ahead with his wish to be an organ donor was incredible. And the ensuing detail about the process of determining which organs could be used and where they would go was fascinating. In the end, Daniel Kline gave new life to three people, and this story raising the awareness of the importance of organ donation no doubt will help save many more.
Lansing State Journal (Finalist)
Louise Knott Ahern, reporter
For Louise Knott Ahern’s balanced reporting of the dilemma facing the National Park Service in its management of the Isle Royale wolves.
Judges said: A small, inbred population of wolves has helped maintain the ecological balance of Isle Royale, but that balance is being threatened by the steady decline of the population and the end is near. Ahern examines the dilemma facing the National Park Service in its management of the island: Does nature take its course, or does the service intervene to instill new breeding stock on the island? Authoritatively researched and written, this story comes alive with detailed description and a unique digital presentation.
To see the work:
LSJ.com/isleroyale
The Daily Times at Salisbury (Finalist)
Vanessa Junkin, Rachael Pacella, Brian Shane and Charlene Sharpe, reporters
For the work of Vanessa Junkin, Rachael Pacella, Brian Shane and Charlene Sharpe exploring the events leading to a fatal church blaze caused by a homeless man who set himself afire.
Judges said: The community was rocked by the powerful news of the devastation created when a troubled homeless man poured gasoline on himself and walked into an Ocean City church on fire. A beloved pastor also died in the resulting blaze. The newspaper committed four reporters to explore all angles of this story and their reporting uncovered a wealth of detail not only about the event itself, but also events leading up to that day. They also were able to show how the community was coming together to continue the church’s mission and to move forward after a terrible loss.
To see the work:
VIDEO: How the hunger ministry continued to operate: https://www.delmarvanow.com/article/20131207/NEWS/312070052/Video-Shepherd-s-Crook-pantry-stays-open Interview with burn victim’s family: https://www.delmarvanow.com/relart/20131207/WCT/312070051
DIVISION III
The News Leader at Staunton (Winner)
Megan Williams, staff writer
For “Losing Norah,” a poignant series by Megan Williams documenting a family losing a child.
Judges said: Grab a box of tissues for this one, because it’s impossible to avoid shedding a tear. This is a beautifully written tribute to a child and the family who loved her.
To see the work:
https://www.newsleader.com/losingnorah
Times Herald at Port Huron (Finalist)
Bob Gross, assistant city editor
For Bob Gross’ compelling story of the “white hurricane”; of 1913.
Judges said: Readers love to connect with their community’s past, and Bob Gross gave them a healthy dose of it with his research into the Storm of 1913. He not only collected great descriptions of what happened to cause the “white hurricane,” he gave readers a great sense of place and time with research into other big news of the day that was happening when the storm hit. Thoroughly interesting and well researched.
The Ithaca Journal (Finalist)
David Hill, reporter
For David Hill’s fascinating look at the region’s new “liquid gold.”
Judges said: While the Finger Lakes region has developed quite the reputation for its vineyards, David Hill’s examination of the growing popularity of ciders and businesses that are maximizing that opportunity was well researched and craftily composed.
To see the work:
Dec 14, 2013, page 6A Cider makers turning Finger Lakes’ apple crop into liquid gold https://www2.shoom.com/PDFView/PDFView.aspx?ref=30&pgID=56750005 Dec 14, 2013, page 6A https://www2.shoom.com/PDFView/PDFView.aspx?ref=30&pgID=56750015
Short Form Writing/Voice
As we package and promote more of our content in smaller snapshots, short-form writing is critical. This award is designed to recognize a distinctive voice as expressed through short-form written text. Examples of short-form writing include text messages, push alerts, headlines, packaging in e-mail newsletters and activity on social media channels, to name several. The work submitted is not confined to any one of these. The work may be from a single journalist, or may be from more than one journalist. Judges will be looking for clarity, precision and brevity. But they will also be looking for a distinctive voice that helps set the journalist or the news organization apart from competitors and connects with target audiences.
DIVISION I
Detroit Free Press (Winner)
Nathan Bomey, Alisa Priddle and Brent Snavely, business writers
For, as a public service, translating complicated, multisyllabic bankruptcy tedium and turning it into a simple text that everyone can understand. The Free Press’ team covering the historic Detroit bankruptcy trial not only did that, but the staffers did that in 140 characters much of the time and with such flair that readers couldn’t stop reading. The coverage has held the attention of 18,000 simultaneous viewers, with replays topping 80,000. Why? The tweets and live blog go beyond the play-by-play of the courtroom, bringing in context, analysis and meaning. And, incredibility, they make it dramatic and entertaining – whether you are a creditor who wants a pound of flesh, a retiree who might lose a city pension or just any average reader concerned with the largest municipal bankruptcy in history.
Judges said: What was so great about the group’s work was the ability to take the very complex and dense subject of a municipal bankruptcy and make it digestible for the everyman in a Twitter/blog format. It is hard to explain any bankruptcy in a 140 characters but they excelled at it and at the same time interacted with readers by answering questions. And the 18,000 simultaneous viewers’ number is incredible for any subject matter.
To see the work:
https://www.freep.com/bankruptcytrialblog_contest
The Des Moines Register (Finalist)
Staff
For providing on-the-scene, spot-on and get-it-first reporting from a shooting spree. The Register used all the tools in the digital toolbox – push alerts, tweets, Storify – to own the breaking news of a convicted felon shooting at passing cars in a neighborhood on the south side of the city. A shootout ensued with police. The gunman died overnight from his wounds.
Judges said: From the first push alert – “Des Moines police officers are exchanging gunfire on the south side with a suspect with a rifle, dispatchers say” – the Register dominated its broadcast rivals on the dangerous gun battle unfolding in a neighborhood. Before long, the staff was on the scene interviewing neighbors and tweeting the comments. Raw and live video was sent out. A crime reporter delivered good news with a tweet: All officers who responded to the shootout were accounted for, according to the dispatcher. This was a wonderful example of how to cover a breaking news story in the digital age.
To see the work:
https://storify.com/dmregister/reacting-to-breaking-news-coverage-of-the-southside
The News-Press at Fort Myers (Finalist)
Jason Thompson, marketing creative services manager and Wendy Fullerton, assistant managing editor for targeted content
For using new technology to reach more readers for a 35-year institution noted for pithy prose. Mystery diner Jean Le Boeuf has delighted the News-Press’ readers with dining reviews of eateries across Southwest Florida employing a combination of expertise, wit and a big appetite. Digital tools have allowed JLB’s influence to grow with exciting features like the Three Tweets review, Ask JLB and the weekly live chat. Le Boeuf stepped up his/her game again with a weekly “Greeting from Jean Le Boeuf” newsletter that provides readers quick tidbits of news-press.com food and dining content with links to the full package. The subscriber base has grown from 1,000 subscribers on Nov. 7 to more than 29,000 recipients by end of December.
Judges said: What a great way to deliver quick and punchy food reviews for the busy reader and also links to those who want the full monty. The three tweet reviews are fun and give readers insight on new dining spots. And anyone who can peak curiosity and an appetite in 420 characters deserves a nod. Example: Should a coworker offer you a cannoli from a red box of pastries from a little Cape Coral bakery called Rose Marie’s, your response should be a swift, “Yes.”
To see the work:
JLB newsletter Nov. 7: https://news-press.net/cbmailgraphics/DMS/dining_news/np_dining_1107.html Nov. 14: https://news-press.net/cbmailgraphics/DMS/dining_news/np_dining_1114.html Nov. 21: https://news-press.net/cbmailgraphics/DMS/dining_news/np_dining_1121.html Nov. 28: https://news-press.net/cbmailgraphics/DMS/dining_news/np_dining_1128.html Dec. 5: https://news-press.net/cbmailgraphics/DMS/dining_news/np_dining_1205.html Dec. 12: https://news-press.net/cbmailgraphics/DMS/dining_news/np_dining_1212.html Dec. 19: https://news-press.net/cbmailgraphics/DMS/dining_news/np_dining_1219.html Dec. 26 https://news-press.net/cbmailgraphics/DMS/dining_news/np_dining_1226.html How to subscribe link: https://news-press.com/jlbnews
DIVISION II
Argus Leader at Sioux Falls (Winner)
Michael Klinski, digital page coordinator; Mark Walker, Beth Wischmeyer and Nick Lowery, reporters
For providing insight into the news of the weird in Sioux Falls. The Argus Leader has Argus 911 as its breaking news feed on its main site as well as for Facebook and Twitter. It’s particularly popular on Twitter – more than 18,000 followers – as much for the day-to-day oddities of life as the major news events. The best evidence of this phenomenon was the compilation of the most retweeted posts from 2013.
Judges said: We laughed out loud reading Argus 911’s end-of-the-year compilation. It was easy to see why readers run to their Twitter accounts and a reminder for all of us how fun a police blotter can be. The reporters used Argus 911 to not only inform readers of important – and weird – news but also as a conversation tool. Example No. 1: Police have been dispatched to 112 N. Phillips for a female in a fish costume riding a motorized scooter in the building. Example No. 2: Scanner traffic is busy already. Not to sound like your mom, Sioux Falls, but have fun AND be careful. We don’t want to tweet about you.
To see the work:
https://www.argusleader.com/interactive/article/20131231/ARGUS911/131231012/-Argus911-year-unusual-sometimes-amusing-tweets
Lansing State Journal (Finalist)
Louise Knott Ahern, reporter
For being a guiding light of information and advice in the darkness. Louise Knott Ahern of the State Journal used social media – especially her @weezwrites Twitter account – to keep readers abreast of the situation when a severe ice storm knocked out the power. For thousands, the power did not return for days. Louise worked with her sizable Twitter (2,151) and Facebook (853) followings, and the @LSJNews retweeted and capitalized on those connections when it made sense. Without power, mobile became the best way to reach readers. Louise facilitated that interaction with authority, urgency and humor.
Judges said: Louise’s coverage was outstanding and well-rounded. She was sending photos, updates and emergency plans from city officials. She was reaching the utilities when readers couldn’t. She was issuing instructions: Don’t report a power outage, but immediately report down wires. Through it all, she kept it light-hearted when needed. She was a beacon of light to her followers and beyond when they were in the dark.
Reno Gazette-Journal (Finalist)
Emerson Marcus, breaking news reporter
For providing a concierge news service of sorts for inquisitive readers. Emerson Marcus of the Reno Gazette-Journal took to regularly answering questions submitted by readers in a new feature, “Ask the RGJ.” Why is Reno an all-you-can-eat sushi hub? Why can’t motorists make a left turn at a local intersection? If you ask, Emerson will find your answer. He will be a voice of authority – and entertaining in the process.
Judges: “Ask the RGJ” works in print and online. It’s a fun read. It’s, in essence, a new model of journalism in a friendly, shorter writing format. And it’s an innovation that could pay off for any Gannett property.
To see the work:
https://blogs.rgj.com/askthergj
DIVISION III
Media Network of Central Ohio (Winner)
Gere Goble, features and engagement editor
For providing a digital holiday checklist of sorts from Thanksgiving week to Christmas Day. The News Journal used its Facebook account to post a daily reminder of mailing dates, shopping tips, links to helpful stories and websites, ways to reduce stress in the busy holiday season and even a recipe.
Judges said: The staff at the News Journal took a different approach with its readers in helping them navigate the obstacles and stresses of the holidays. The tips, important dates and even a recipe for traditional buckeye candy was just the personal assistant an Ohio native would need. The checklist provided an example of how social media can provide an alternative option to the traditional holiday story.
To see the work:
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10151844948229862&set=a.10150156956714862.295182.66281684861&type=1&theater
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10151850006859862&set=a.10150156956714862.295182.66281684861&type=1&theater
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10151852118824862&set=a.10150156956714862.295182.66281684861&type=1&theater
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10151854213679862&set=a.10150156956714862.295182.66281684861&type=1&theater
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10151874790549862&set=a.10150156956714862.295182.66281684861&type=1&theater
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10151864556149862&set=a.10150156956714862.295182.66281684861&type=1&theater
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10151862530354862&set=a.10150156956714862.295182.66281684861&type=1&theater
The News-Star at Monroe (Finalist)
Cody Futtrell, sports writer
For delivering all the action – and reaction – from the championship gridiron in 140 characters. In the South and particularly in northeastern Louisiana, prep football is a religion and News-Star reporter Cody Futrell used his Twitter account to give a play-by-play updates of three teams from the Monroe community playing for state championships in New Orleans.
Judges said: Cody’s Twitter account was amazing during his two days reporting from the state championships. He not only gave an almost play-by-play account but was conversational in his retweets and even retweeted the news of Nick Saban’s contract extension. His 140-character prose was infused with humanity and action and gave Monroe a front row seat at the Superdome.
To see the work:
@cfutrellTNS
The Daily Advertiser (Finalist)
Staff
For serving up delightful doses of good food and good times. The Daily Advertiser revamped its features section and strengthened a tie to its passion topic about enjoying the unique food of the Acadiana. “Bites” was born as a quick, fun, informative way to reflect that as part of the new content plan.
Judges said: Two forks up for Bites, a nice feature for a nice new section. It gives locals and tourists alike a fast way to find new food and drink options while celebrating something unique to the community. Who knew there were small oranges, grown in south Louisiana, about the size of tangerines? They’re called satsuma oranges. We know because of Bites. The feature reminds us that we are here to be a service to readers and in these days the quicker the better. The Daily Advertiser clearly hasn’t bitten off more than its readers can chew.
Photojournalism
Submissions may consist of a single photo or photo gallery, or of a collection of work. Photos can illustrate all subject areas covered by the newsroom, but judges will add particular weight to coverage that ties directly to passion topics or the needs of target audiences. Photos should tell the news at a glance, convey emotion, drama and personality, and give audience members a sense of place. Photo galleries may contain music or dialogue.
DIVISION I
The Tennessean at Nashville (Winner)
John Partipilo, photographer
For John Partipilo’s photographs that document the changes in rural Tennessee related to growth.
Judges said: The execution of a project that John Partipilo pitched, sourced and produced was outstanding. He put himself at the right places at the right time to make the right photographs. Image after image jumped off the page. The final slideshow in the series housed an especially impressive collection of photos.
To see the work:
Farming https://www.tennessean.com/article/20131128/NEWS01/311280083/As-Middle-TN-grows-rural-landscape-forever-changed Family https://www.tennessean.com/article/20131128/NEWS01/311280083/As-Middle-TN-grows-rural-landscape-forever-changed Faith https://www.tennessean.com/article/20131128/NEWS01/311280083/As-Middle-TN-grows-rural-landscape-forever-changed Forgotten Places https://www.tennessean.com/article/20131128/NEWS01/311280083/As-Middle-TN-grows-rural-landscape-forever-changed
Detroit Free Press (Finalist)
Kirthmon F. Dozier, staff photographer
For Kirthmon F. Dozier’s photographs that brought the Michigan sports scene to life on the pages of the Detroit Free Press.
Judges said: Kirthmon F. Dozier’s knowledge of the subjects he photographs and the passion for his craft stood out in this entry. His images brought the reader to field level for a view of the game you can’t get anywhere else. You could feel the hits, see the emotion and sense the story of the game in his photos.
FLORIDA TODAY at Brevard (Finalist)
Craig Rubadoux, visual journalist
For Craig Rubadoux’s images that profiled seniors living on their own as part of a series on aging.
Judges said: Craig Rubadoux’s touching photographs of seniors living on their own gave a glimpse of the subjects’ struggles and attempts to cope. He put himself in a wide variety of situations and produced a range of photographs that provided a broad look into the lives of the people he documented.
To see the work:
Tapping on the first photo allows you to click through all the photos in the gallery.
Jack Ensminger:https://www.floridatoday.com/content/agingalone/news/jack/index.shtml
Alice Lanford:https://www.floridatoday.com/content/agingalone/news/alice/index.shtml
Curtice Martin:https://www.floridatoday.com/content/agingalone/news/curtice/index.shtml
Angelina Burns:https://www.floridatoday.com/content/agingalone/news/angelina/index.shtml
Annie Mae Price:https://www.floridatoday.com/content/agingalone/news/angelina/index.shtml
Gay Hoffman:https://www.floridatoday.com/content/agingalone/news/gay/index.shtml
DIVISION II
Montgomery Advertiser (Winner)
Amanda Sowards, staff photographer
For Amanda Sowards’ series of peak-action photographs of what could be called the play of the year in college football.
Judges said: Capturing compelling peak action photos and producing images that tell the story of the game is the goal of all photojournalists at sporting events. To combine the two is a magic moment. Sowards did that in the tack-sharp photographs she made of the Prayer at Jordan Hare.
The Burlington Free Press (Finalist)
Emily McManamy, staff photographer
For Emily McManamy’s compelling black-and-white images that chronicle the life of Tammy Shackett, whose life has been on hold since her lungs started to fail.
udges said: Emily McManamy’s ability to layer photographs, document important moments and use natural light stood out in this entry. We were especially impressed with the image of the family patiently waiting during an outing at an orchard while Tammy Shackett caught her breath.
To see the work:
https://bfpne.ws/1d6iIfD
Reno Gazette-Journal (Finalist)
Andy Barron and Marilyn Newton, photographers and Tim Dunn, photo editor
For the images produced by Andy Barron, Tim Dunn and Marilyn Newton that captured the drama of school shooting that claimed the life of a student and a teacher.
Judges said: From the chaotic scene at the school the day of the shooting through to the candlelight vigil two days later Andy Barron, Tim Dunn and Marilyn Newton documented the fear and grief that followed a tragic shooting. The powerful images provided strong anchors for the print and digital editions to bring the story to a community in shock over the event.
To see the work:
https://www.rgj.com/apps/pbcs.dll/gallery?Avis=J7&Dato=20131030&Kategori=NEWS01&Lopenr=1030003&Ref=PH
DIVISION III
The News Leader at Staunton (Winner)
Katie Currid, photographer
For Katie Currid’s powerful photographs documenting a family’s journey as they dealt with their daughter’s battle with brain cancer.
Judges said: It is not an easy task to produce compelling images to anchor a seven-day series. But as we turned the pages of the project we consistently came across emotion-packed, well composed photographs that documented a family’s long journey that ended in the death of their daughter. This was a strong and impressive entry.
To see the work:
https://www.newsleader.com/losingnorah
Press & Sun-Bulletin at Rochester (Finalist)
Kristopher Radder,staff photographer
For Kristopher Raddar’s dynamic photograph of the winner in a slam dunk contest.
Judges said: The leading lines, low angle, symmetry and sharp action combined to make this a standout entry. It would have been easy to make a good picture at this event by shooting with a long lens. But Kristopher Raddar took it step further to try a unique angle.
The Daily Advertiser at Lafayette, La. (Finalist)
Leslie Westbrook, photographer
For Leslie Westbrook’s dramatic image of an injured woman carried from a scene after she was rescued from a kidnapper.
Judges said: Leslie Westbrook’s ability to capture THE moment while adrenaline was surely pumping as a tense situation unfolded in front of her makes this photograph stand out. The blog post explaining the situation around the image and the decision to publish it was a good touch for a situation and photograph that was the talk of the community.
Video Journalism
Where video was previously combined with photojournalism, it now stands in its own category. Judges will be looking for great storytelling, which could range from breaking news to features to mini-documentaries. They will also weigh technical aspects of the video, including sound, lighting and editing choices. This category is not just the province of video specialists with high-end gear; judges understand that reporters who produce videos on their iPhones can create compelling video storytelling too.
DIVISION I
The Cincinnati Enquirer (Winner)
Carrie Cochran, photojournalist
The Enquirer takes a deep dive into the subject of a mother’s depression and its affects on her child. In this documentary-style video, it was evident that the videographer was given extraordinary access and was able to portray this family’s struggle openly and honestly.
Judges said: Kudos to Carrie Cochran for this superb piece of video journalism. The time and care that went into this package was quite clear from the start. Viewers did not just watch a video about this family … it was shot and edited in a way that made it seem as though we were living with them. It was emotional, intriguing, and — at times — a little uncomfortable, but it offered an honest look at a serious issue that affects families everywhere.
To see the work:
the video: https://bcove.me/1xw2vlzu https://news.cincinnati.com/interactive/article/20131020/NEWS01/131018026/What-s-like-live-mommy-s-depression
The Arizona Republic at Phoenix (Finalist)
Pat Shannahan, senior photographer
A classic, World War II love story as told by Frank and Scotty Hobbs to videographer Pat Shannahan. We learn about how the couple’s love story began, and how it’s held up for more than 60 years.
Judges said: So many compelling news videos often coming from tragedy and disaster, it’s nice to see one born out of an old-fashioned love story. Frank and Scotty’s story had to be told and videographer Pat Shannahan’s fine editing made it pop off the screen in engaging, creative fashion. The judges also appreciated the fact that Shannahan began his assignment in one direction, then rightly changed course when the story evolved. The final result was one of the finest produced videos of more than 150 viewed from this year’s entries.
To see the work:
On azcentral.com:
https://www.azcentral.com/news/arizona/articles/20131107world-war-two-veteran-phoenix-washington.html
Brightcove: https://bcove.me/y7gy1o6w
Asbury Park Press (Finalist)
Brian Johnston, videographer
The story of Jesse Morella, and how one snort of heroin changed his life forever. The video tells the devastating effects of the drug, how his mother never gave up hope and what Jesse is doing so others don’t make the same mistake he did.
Judges said: Videographer Brian Johnston captures a mother’s range of emotions beautifully in this story on the devastating effects of heroin. Jesse Morella’s story is a sad one, and Johnston brings us inside his home, weaves in some excellent B-roll, photos and home video footage to tell it with compassion. This video was among a handful of more than 150 videos submitted that rose above the rest.
To see the work:
https://www.app.com/videonetwork/2897787853001/Heroin-The-deadly-decision
DIVISION II
The Burlington Free Press (Winner)
Staff
The Burlington Free Press video journalism entry included a winter storm’s aftermath, a devastating church fire, a lively student protest and an exciting restaurant opening. Their “Year in Video” video included highlights of those and several other snapshots of 2013 in and around Burlington.
Judges said: The Free Press’s entry truly showed the range of its talented staff. Its Year in Video montage was beautifully crafted and wrapped up the highs and lows of 2013 with a stunning array of images. The visuals in the church fire and storm aftermath videos were outstanding and the protest video did well to capture the mood of an exciting day on campus. The Hen of the Wood video, however, captured the judges’ attention most of all because of its unique approach. Any videographer can interview a restaurant manager and edit in a few nice images of the kitchen, bar and dining area. Ryan Mercer chose to go heavy on sights and sound and the end result was well worth it.
To see the work:
Church fire aftermath: https://bfpne.ws/LdYVBW Year in Video: https://bfpne.ws/1deD1nD Lights out in Cambridge: https://bcove.me/pknapad6 Hen of the Wood: https://bfpne.ws/1gVzLlp UVM divestment protest: https://bfpne.ws/1mgY8hx
The Star Press at Muncie (Finalist)
Jordan Kartholl, photographer
In the Star Press’s “Woman panhandles to survive” video, we are introduced to Linda Domke, a woman who has turned panhandling to get by. We follow her to busy intersections, to where she sleeps in her car, and into her mind in a series of candid interviews.
Judges said: Photographer Jordan Kartholl began the video with a clever time lapse of a busy intersection to give the viewer a snapshot of what Domke sees on the streets while she’s “signing.” It’s clear as the video continues that Kartholl spent a great deal of time with Domke and the end result was an honest look at her life. It also served to give a face and voice to many people who go widely ignored.
To see the work:
https://tspne.ws/1kE9NIQ
Reno Gazette-Journal (Finalist)
Liz Margerum, video editor and Siobhan McAndrew, education reporter
The Reno Gazette-Journal earned access to the parents of a 12-year-old school shooter that shot two students, fatally wounded a teacher and killed himself. In an emotional interview, we learn more about Jose Reyes and how his parents are coping with their incredible loss.
Judges said: Grieving parents are an incredibly tough interview, especially in the aftermath of a school shooting. The parents of Jose Reyes were comfortable enough to speak openly about their son with reporter Liz Margerum, even though they still hadn’t fully comprehended what had happened. The result is as complete a look at the 12-year-old that those not in his immediate circle would ever get, and a compelling piece of video journalism.
To see the work:
https://rgj.com/videonetwork/3062914484001
DIVISION III
The News Leader at Staunton (Winner)
Katie Currid, photographer
The News Leader, led by reporter Megan Williams and photographer Katie Currid, told the story of Norah Mastrandeas, a young girl battling cancer. The video provides a window into the final six months of her life in a series of emotional interviews with Norah and her parents.
Judges said: This video stood head and shoulders above the others in Division III – and frankly, could have brought home an award in Division I, too. Norah’s story was an emotional one and the team of Williams and Currid delivered it to viewers with care. The video was edited beautifully and the lighting fit the tone of the story. This was an easy choice for the top prize.
To see the work:
https://www.newsleader.com/VideoNetwork/2839816455001/Losing-Norah
Home News Tribune at East Brunswick (Finalist)
Jason Towlen, staff photographer
Jason Towlen produced three strong videos for this entry, including a recap of a double-fatal accident that claimed the lives of two teenagers, a breast cancer survivor and her pregnancy and a fun look at life with quadruplets.
Judges said: Jason Towlen’s fourth-quarter portfolio included video stories of devastation, hope and humor. He provided a succinct recap of a fatal crash that killed two local teens, compassionately told the story of a woman going through a pregnancy with breast cancer and brought us inside the home of parents dealing with the everyday rigors of quadruplets. The latter two videos — the features — were captivating and included great lighting, interviews and most importantly, stories.
To see the work:
Breast cancer, a baby and the BRCA gene:
https://mycj.co/19xggLr
Bridgewater Quads:
https://mycj.co/KgNvwf
Herald Times Reporter at Manitowoc (Finalist)
Sarah Kloepping, videographer
Manitowoc selected a trio of vastly different videos for its video journalism entry. It included a local professor’s poignant memory of the assassination of John F. Kennedy, a wildlife refuge’s study of “pint-sized” owls and a behind-the-scenes look at a boy’s bar mitzvah.
Judges said: Sarah Kloepping’s creative story-telling was on full display with these three videos. As judges, we saw numerous JFK-themed tributes, but this one stood out with the help of a solid interview and seamless editing with archival footage. Sarah’s videos on the saw-whet owls and the bar mitzvah were both wonderfully composed and educational at the same time. Her versatility as a video journalist is obvious.
To see the work:
https://www.htrnews.com/videonetwork/2772312321001/Manitowoc-boy-celebrates-bar-mitzvah https://www.htrnews.com/videonetwork/2857661576001/SLC-instructor-recalls-interview-with-JFK https://www.htrnews.com/videonetwork/2773768244001/dozens-of-tiny-owls-banded-at-woodland-dunes
Design
This category recognizes print or digital design or presentation. A premium will be placed on conveying information and subject understanding through design. An entry should be bold and eye-catching as well as clear and easy to navigate. The tone of the design should be appropriate for the subject and the context of the work being showcased.
DIVISION I
The Tennessean at Nashville and Nashville Design Studio (Winner)
Staff
A selection of 1A and section fronts from The Tennessean.
Judges said: Consistently strong, smart design that made excellent use of a limited color palette and well executed visuals. The illustrated section fronts are well thought out and resonate with the seriousness of the topics while still attracting readers’ attention with bold colors and a strong hierarchy of information. Multiple layers of graphic information -main illustration, pie chart, icons paired with key numbers – makes a package on hydroelectric power exciting and digestible to a casual reader. What could have been a criminal mug shot turned into a striking illustration, combined with strong typography, to create a bold 1A story on parole violators. The Portfolio section consistently makes good use of large photos, magazine-like cover design and typography. The year end section (13 in 2013) used sophisticated color gradation to tie together action photos and multiple story refers.
Rochester Democrat and Chronicle and Asbury Park Design Studio (Finalist)
Abigail Westcott, designer
For a selection of Abby Westcott’s page design.
With “Untangling LDC web,” the illustration lets the reader actually see the tangle of local politics. “Out of the fire” – with a dramatic main photo that forces the page sideways – asks readers to take the extra moment to take in the scope of a community tragedy. In each entry, strong photography, paired with well-placed headline typograph, allow the visuals to really shine without neglecting the other, important parts of the page (refers to inside story, USAT refers, quotes).
The Indianapolis Star and Louisville Design Studio (Finalist)
David Leonard, designer, Louisville Design Studio
For an iPad IndyStar Sports Weekly focusing on Peyton Manning.
Judges said: This special section was visually entertaining and easy to navigate. Strong typography, with beefy drop caps and clean two-column design kept the section cohesive and clean. The interactive elements really take advantage of the iPad as a unique medium, such as the hefty gallery of sports photography and the sidebar ‘How to pull off a golf cart caper.’ Interesting technique to use old page PDFs in a zoom and pan so Peyton fans could relive the Indy Star’s past coverage. The different story formats were well executed and compelling enough to make even a non-football fan keep flipping all the way through.
To see the work:
Once you download the app, please download issue 10, Nov. 7 (free.)
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/indystar-sports/id691757460?mt=8
DIVISION II
Journal and Courier at Lafayette, Ind. and Louisville Design Studio (Winner)
David Leonard, Louisville Design Studio and staff, Journal & Courier
For “Waiting to Exhale,” a special Sunday section about Purdue University’s football-weekend drinking culture.
Judges said: “Waiting to Exhale” is an example of elegant design stemming from a well thought-out hierarchy of typography and elements throughout the section. Organizing the 14 pages so each topic is contained to a page and chaptering each page – the overview, the breakfast club, the police – means the reader can dive in anywhere. This is smart design: drawing readers in through multiple entry points and highlighting information that might be of particular interest to them. The use of sidebars to break up the narrative – and the change in sidebars to sans serif font and bold headlines – means the “extras” do not get lost. Simple graphics in a restrained color palette as well as pull quotes allow breathing space on type heavy pages. The use of a main photograph for each section – and then a collection of photographs for the doubletruck – draws the eye to a new chapter start. A tidy index on page 2 helps navigation. Attention to detail and special elements – the red cup in the section header, the way the tweets are displayed differently from staff written stories, the placement of graphics and web refers – add to the special report feel. It’s obvious from the design that the paper sees this as an important discussion for their community.
The Daily Times at Salisbury and Asbury Park Design Studio (Finalist)
Nathan Estep, team leader and Dawn Donofrio, features designer, Asbury Park Design Studio; Laura Emmons, photographer, The Daily Times
For a selection of covers and doubletrucks from Tides, a new Sunday section dedicated to the water.
Judges said: The Daily Times new Sunday section really showcases what can be done with a passion topic. The focus on great photography for a magazine-like cover, as well as on inside pages, gives a strong sense of place and connection to the community. We liked that the ‘TIDES’ section masthead is very clean and uses a suble two-tone color scheme that changes depending on the colors in the main photo. The use of white space in the center spreads, like around the copy in the oyster farming story, helps add to the drama created by the double truck photos. Overall the packages are well thought out and are something special for readers to look forward to every week.
To see the work:
CHARLES APPLE BLOG ENTRY ON TIDES: https://www.charlesapple.com/2013/11/salisbury-md-daily-times-launches-gorgeous-new-features-section/
Reno Gazette-Journal and Phoenix Design Studio (Finalist)
Staff
For a front page and three inside pages about a school shooting that killed one teacher and a student and injured others.
Judges said: When breaking news hits, the rightful instinct is to get to the story: reporting, photography, web updates, tweets. The presentation can become an afterthought. This does not seem to be the case in the impressive pages Reno produced the day after a school shooting. A strong front page featured one dominant, emotional photograph paired with vital information above the fold. Three accompanying inside pages showcased local photography while also layering in information around the central narrative: a locator map, a bold digital refer, tips for parents. A tidy timeline, sophisticated design for the “community response” rails and effective page toppers dotted the page and offered multiple ways to get into the story. A consistent grid and smart color choices made the package reflect the news and the impact of this story on the community.
DIVISION III
The News Leader at Staunton and Nashville Design Studio (Winner)
Merry Eccles, designer, Nashville Design Studio and Beth Arsenault, team leader, Digital Production Center
For “Losing Norah,” a seven day series on the life of Norah Mastrandea and her family.
Judges said: What a stunning series. The design gets everything right, starting with the subtle italic font, the liberal use of white space on the covers and large photos on the jumps. Two techniques in this series were most striking: First, the consistent placement and design on 1A. On the first and last days – and the day of Norah’s death – the story is the 1A centerpiece and commands the page. Smart 1A design adjustments on these days (smaller page flag, two story starts, no black vertical rule under the flag, pull quotes, accent designs) remind readers this is a series – and one worthy of our attention. On days when it is not the centerpiece, we commend the News Leader for keeping the story above the flag and nicely designed – maintaining the white space, the series logo, the drop cap. There can be a tendency to start a series strong and big and then whittle away space from designers and photographers by adding one more story start, one more box, some ads on the jump page, etc. This did not happen with “Losing Nora.” Secondly, the logo – a single pink balloon – shows this series was truly designed as a complete package. The simple, symbolic balloon connects beautifully with the sophisticated and heart breaking 1A illustration on the day of Nora’s death (as well as the photographs of friends and families releasing pink balloons at the funeral) and gives the reader space for pause and reflection. It is obvious designer Merry Eccles, the photographer and the writer worked hard to make complete, touching, sophisticated visual journalism.
To see the work:
https://www.newsleader.com/losingnorah
The Leaf-Chronicle at Clarksville and Nashville Design Studio (Finalist)
Tracie Keeton, team leader, Nashville Design Studio
A 1A mainplay story that illustrated a man’s quest to climb the seven highest mountains on all continents.
Judges said: How often are designers faced with the dilemma: How to illustrate a good 1A story with not good 1A art? The Leaf-Chronicle found a nice tale in a man who will climb the highest mountain on all seven continents to raise money for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation in honor of his niece. The package featured a photo of the man and his niece but the graphic by designer Tracie Keeton made this a finalist. Pulling information on the Seven Summits from the text of the story, she created an eye-catching illustration of a climber lumbering up the side of the story with seven drawn mountains anchoring the page. The illustration was not only fun but informative – naming the peaks, their location and height. The additional layer of information made the package stronger and likely drew in readers through multiple entry points.
The Daily Advertiser at Lafayette, La. and Des Moines Design Studio (Finalist)
Staff
A redesigned, expanded Daily Advertiser launched in December.
Judges said: We commend the Daily Advertiser for a great all around redesign. Page flags are much improved. The fluer de lis speaks to the region’s roots and also provides creative, bold branding on all section fronts. The use of color and a more sophisticated font choice for page flags introduces nice chaptering without overpowering the rest of the page. The quiet, reverse type section headers (“Good food. Good music. Good times.”) serve a function for the new reader without crowding the page flag for those daily loyalists. The small round icons sprinkled on inside pages are a nice touch – Louisiana, Acadiana History, Biz Buzz, etc. A few features that especially stood out to us: The calendar that anchors the bottom of The Times of Acadiana (nice use of color and screens, nice local face); the 12.21 UL Football special poster page; the clean, modern serif font used for 1A skybox promotions; the fun 2A (photo of the day, poll question, promotion to inside content).