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Sweepstakes Winners
Story of the Year
John Przybys
Las Vegas Review-Journal
Reaching Out With Love
Story of the Year is supposed to tell “a compelling story and hold the reader’s interest.” This story is not just compelling, it is inspiring. A remarkable family responding to extraordinary challenges with creativity, love and determination, but this story is raised to the next level by the author’s choices. He uses the power of language beautifully to tell the tale of two people who might well have been trapped by silence, but more importantly he exercises empathy to help the reader enter the world of Cashel and Allie and all those who are born “different.”
Editorial of the Year
Steve Ranson
Lahontan Valley News
Perception is Truth
Great editorial. Takes a strong stance and then provides answers.
An excerpt: How can the school district avoid a similar situation?
• The administration must take ownership — something like Harry S. Truman’s “the buck stops here” — and be forthright.
• In dealing with personnel matters involving coaches, include the athletic director in the process. Not doing so shows a perception Churchill County School District had something to hide and ramrodded this personnel matter.
• These are issues best for the school board; after all, they represent the constituents of Churchill County.
Outstanding Journalists
Urban Daily,Urban Weeklies,Magazines
Jennifer Robison,
Las Vegas Review-Journal
Ms. Robinson’s impressive body of work reflects a commitment to solid reporting and fact-gathering, as well as an understanding of how to make a complex story compelling and interesting to read. Very solid work!
From the nomination: When it comes to unraveling the hopelessly complex and explaining the inexplicable, Las Vegas Review-Journal business writer Jennifer Robison is unparalelled in Nevada journalism.
In addition to regular authoritative articles about the impact of the Affordable Care Act, on small business, individuals and insurance markets, Robison uncovered massive flaws in the online exchanges signup system — flaws that damaged the lives of everyday Nevadans …”
Intermediate,Community
Sheila Gardner, The Record-Courier
Stellar work. It shows the highest quality work can be done in small newsrooms.
From the nomination: She is, syllable for syllable, one of the best writers in the state. Her news sense is tack sharp, and her horse sense is off the chart.
Whether it’s interviewing a little girl who called 911 when her mommy collapsed, or covering a murder, Sheila never flinches from getting the whole story and getting it into print.
Photo of the Year (front cover)Sam Morris, Las Vegas Sun
El Super Clasico — Chivas Fan Beaten
A breaking news photo that captures an image that stays with you. The colors and angles of the photo make it a shot that no doubt fixated readers.
Outstanding Visual Journalist
Justin Yurkanin, Las Vegas Review-Journal
Excellent quality photos, and the pics flow well with the content
From the nomination: Justin Yurkanin’s photojournalism for the Las Vegas Review-Journal is distinguished by images that are at once descriptive and beautifylly composed. Working primarily in video, he understands the way motion and composition work to engage the viewer, and employs technique only in the service of storytelling.
Ad of the Year
Sean Rademacher,
Las Vegas Weekly
South Point Hoops Heaven
Clever use of visuals to create intrigue/engagement.
Best Editorial Cartoon
Mike Smith, Las Vegas Sun
What does it take for a black man to be safe in this country?
A very important message told very succinctly.
Mike Smith, Vegas Inc.
Sharron Angle “I’m Back”
This cartoon tells a story as well as any political analyst could: Tea parties have to decide if they want to be political purists or if they want to win elections.
Mike Smith, The Sunday
Red Ink
Two kinds of man-made folding. Story told very well with humor.
Freedom of the Press
Urban Dailies
Staff, Reno Gazette-Journal
Staff, Las Vegas Review-Journal
Tovin Lapan, Ana Ley, Las Vegas Sun
Urban Weeklies
D. Brian Burghart, Reno News & Review
It’s the law. Follow it; Let the sunshine in; Who watches the watchers?; Death in the Afternoon; Who shot Darcie Latham?
Keep up the good fight. This is an extensive effort to hold public officials and agencies accountable.
Magazines
C.J. Hadley, publisher, Michael S. Coffman, Ph.D., writer, S. Fred Singer, Ph.D., writer, Tom DeWeese, writer, John Bardwell, designer, RANGE magazine
Climate Change/Agenda 21
Silver Star Award
Greg Erwin, Reno News & Review
From the nomination:
Big challenge. Little paper.
Maintaining circulation and distribution points for any publication is a huge challenge these days – which I’m sure isn’t news to anyone in our industry. What is news, however, is when a publication can not only maintain its circulation, but also grow it. Not just a little, but a lot (35%).
Greg had a lot of support from Karen Brooke and Nanette Harker in our front office. Each of them deserves recognition, yet Greg was the one who put together the plan and who helped to implement it, resulting in our growth.
Judge’s comment:
It’s really nice to be able to honor a circulation director for his contributions to the newspaper. Without distribution, it’s pretty much all in vain.
Best Headline Writing
Urban
Dave Mondt, The Sunday
The business of dogs’ business, Bitcoin debate: Is online currency worth its weightlessness in gold?,Woodworking teacher carves her niche in DIY industry
Love “The business of dogs’ business” and “carves her niche.”
Matthew Crowley, Las Vegas Review-Journal
You’re All Undead to Me, Warm Bodies Bends monster movie tropes to deliver laughter and a love story, How do I know what’s creepy? I have my sorceresses, Demons Are Forever Ichabod Crane’s pursuit of Headless Horseman vaults into modern day
Very clever headlines.
Lisa Valentine, View Neighborhood
Beautifying by brushstroke, Triple shot of show tune, Chronicles of the canyon
A strong third place.
Intermediate,Community
Tracy Worthington, Desert Valley Times
Cowboy Kenny’s rodeo ‘steels’ show, Fire department receives Tide of toilet paper, Local cops load up on drugs
Virginia City News
GOING HOG WILD: Street Vibrations Rolls Into Virginia City This Weekend;
CRAPPER CAPERS: Outhouse Races Set For This Weekend In Virginia City; SPICY NUTS KICK BUTTS: Cojones Caliente Takes Top Prizes At Mountain Oyster Fry
Urban Daily
General Excellence
Las Vegas Review-Journal
While editing mistakes cost credibility, the paper’s consistent effort to show its talent on every section earned loyalty.
Las Vegas Sun
Powerful stories, art and design made this an excellent read. But its unique format gives it unfair advantages against the more traditional dailies, which have to carry a heavier weight across the finish line.
Reno Gazette-Journal
Strong stories and art undercut by excessive promotion of changes and redesigns. We don’t want to read the owner’s manual — we want to drive the car.
Journalist of Merit
Jackie Valley, Las Vegas Sun
Powerful writing and reporting by Jackie Valley. She’s the obvious winner in this category.
Community Service
Martha Bellisle, Liz Margerum,
Reno Gazette-Journal
Sex Trafficking
Awesome job investigating this issue, both with Martha’s reporting and Liz’s powerful video. Great journalism!
Keith Rogers,
Las Vegas Review-Journal
Coverage of problems with Veterans Administration hospital in Las Vegas
Great watchdog journalism. Great job turning a news tip into a series of stories that shine light on this situation while following up with strong editorials.
Review-Journal staff,
Las Vegas Review-Journal
Coverage of the problematic rollout of Nevada’s Obamacare system
Good job putting a complicated issue into perspective with a series of articles that put a face on the Affordable Care Act and connects with readers.
Best Spot News Story
Staff, Reno Gazette-Journal
Sparks Middle School Shooting
The paper really threw the kitchen sink at this story, and it paid off. Comprehensive, sensitive reporting that served the community well during an undoubtedly difficult time.
Mike Blasky, Las Vegas Review-Journal
Mother mourns son killed at Bally’s, forgives man accused in shooting
Great job getting the mother’s voice in the paper and other details surrounding this shooting.
Mike Blasky, Las Vegas Review-Journal
Last moments of man killed by police at Red Rock captured on video
I wonder if the details of the case would have been swept under the rug if not for the video and the reporting on it in such a timely manner.
Best Feature Story
Ed Komenda, Las Vegas Sun
Is Tony Hsieh downtown Las Vegas’ savior or conqueror?
Wow, what a great piece of work, wouldn’t be out of place in any of the best newspapers in the country. Lots of voices, lots of great observations, nicely written, well organized. And, great reporting, especially having no help from the subject.
Paul Harasim, Las Vegas
Review-Journal
Well-traveled doctor pursues his work, and his passions, at full tilt
Very nicely written. We caught ourselves saying ‘wow’ a lot. A great profile of a worthy subject that clearly took some work to find childhood friends, former colleagues and other voices.
Johnathan L. Wright,
Reno Gazette-Journal
A real Van Gogh or not?
A ripping good yarn, nicely written and well organized. A good use of the research of others. Lots of nice details, including what Edith Goetz had for dinner, which belonged right where it was, at the end. There were other features in the contest that handled more important subjects, but few that showed how talent can transform a normally pedestrian art show opening into a tight little mystery story.
Best Nonstaff Story
Erin Ryan, Las Vegas Sun
Hanging On: The beautiful, technical, secret world of canyoneering
Your lead about the flash flood incident pulled me into this story. Great read
Ed Koch, Las Vegas Sun
Lots of history buried in century-old cemetery near downtown Las Vegas
A unique way to look at history.
Ed Koch, Las Vegas Sun
Las Vegas gambling pioneer Jackie Gaughan dies at 93
A great remembrance of what sounded like a very influential person in Las Vegas.
Best Business News Story
Andrea Domanick, Las Vegas Sun
Las Vegas wedding businesses: We’d love to see gay marriage legalized
Strong story telling, good details. Great lede.
Bill O’Driscoll. Reno Gazette-Journal
Family Ties
Good historical look at a business with an informative timeline.
Ed Komenda, Las Vegas Sun
Cocktail waitresses fight new middleman
Good storytelling pulls the reader into this story and the issue.
Best Business Feature
Jason Hidalgo, Reno Gazette-Journal
Shadow unemployment
For being a statistic driven piece, the reporting is top notch. This look at shadow unemployment really answers so many questions about a complex economy, all the while weaving people stories throughout for the benefit of the reader. This is not only a business feature, but a public service.
Eli Segall, Las Vegas Sun
The crack of condiments
If the headline of this piece was “Crack of Condiments,” this story was the crack of journalism. Witty, interesting and a great example of seeing a trend and then reporting the heck out of it. I appreciated the reporter and editors had a lot of fun with this.
Howard Stutz,
Las Vegas Review-Journal
New leadership hopes to revitalize Revel in Atlantic City
This series shows just how comprehensive reporting can be done and should be done to an industry inextricably linked with Nevada. Kudos to the Review-Journal for spending the time and money to bring deep understanding to the gaming industry in general, not just in its own backyard.
Best Explanatory Journalism
Benjamin Spillman,
Las Vegas Review-Journal
Delivering a New Downtown
Trevon Milliard, Brian Haynes,
Las Vegas Review-Journal
Education ratings are low where poor, less-educated live
Laura Myers,
Las Vegas Review-Journal
Mental Health in Nevada
Best News Feature Story
Martha Bellisle, Reno Gazette-Journal
Sex Trafficking
Ray Hagar. Reno Gazette-Journal
The Longest Wait
Siobhan McAndrew,
Reno Gazette-Journal
Little Boy Gone
Best Investigative or
In-depth Story or Series
Martha Bellisle, Reno Gazette-Journal
Who’s watching you? / Data dragnets
Tovin Lapan, Las Vegas Sun
Immigrant Detention
Francis McCabe,
Las Vegas Review-Journal
Young father’s violent killing prompts investigation of gang leader’s plea deal
Best Local Column
Glenn Cook,
Las Vegas Review-Journal
Paul Harasim,
Las Vegas Review-Journal
John L. Smith,
Las Vegas Review-Journal
Best Non-staff Column
Anne Pershing, Reno Gazette-Journal
I’m sure this is a well-read column. Serves its audience well.
Best Sports Story
Ron Kantowski,
Las Vegas Review-Journal
Unlikely friends are teammates for life
Depth of character description moves story forward and reminds readers why sport matters
Dan Hinxman, Chris Murray,
Reno Gazette-Journal
Wolf Pack Millennium
Encyclopedic look at an obscure statistic. For the fans who love tradition and legacy, this delivers satisfaction
Taylor Bern, Las Vegas Sun
A cruel game: Rebels celebration cut short when replay overturns victory
A classic deadline sports narrative of a game that demanded close review of the final seconds.
Best Sports Feature
Chris Murray, Reno Gazette-Journal
Ride to Recovery
Ray Brewer, Las Vegas Sun
After gear is stolen, this high school baseball team’s season is in jeopardy
Paul Harasim,
Las Vegas Review-Journal
Heart transplant works to help others live full lives
Best Sports Column
Ray Brewer, Las Vegas Sun
The column on Jim Livengood was an interesting read. It gave me, an outsider, a look at an issue for which Brewer clearly has a deep understanding. Also really enjoyed the story about taking your son to UNLV Basketball.
Chris Murray, Reno Gazette-Journal
I enjoyed the behind-the-scenes look this column provides. Some very heartwarming stories.
Ed Graney, Las Vegas Review-Journal
Your columns about UNLV football and Kizer’s retirement provided a look at those issues from someone who understands them well.
Best Entertainment Writing
Christopher Lawrence,
Las Vegas Review-Journal
The lede on the “Bad Ink” story pulled me right in and the writer kept it interesting with strong story telling.
Heidi Knapp Rinella,
Las Vegas Review-Journal
The tiki story had great quotes and explored an interesting topic.
John Katsilometes, Las Vegas Sun
“Capitalizing on Comedy” really takes the reader to a night at a comedy club, using vivid details.
Best Critical Writing
Mike Weatherford,
Las Vegas Review-Journal
The best of an incredibly deep, talented field of entrants. The top 5 entries were all excellent.
Christopher Lawrence,
Las Vegas Review-Journal
Smooth style. Love his transitions.
John Katsilometes, Las Vegas Sun
Fun insights.
Best Editorial Writing
Glenn Cook, Las Vegas Review-Journal
This was an exceptionally tough category. Writing was very good, but what gave the Review-Journal the edge was its ability to demonstrate to an average reader how their actions or lives would be impacted without change. A great example of this is the story on voter turnout and its link to city budgeting. Normally, that would be a hard thing to convince reader to be engaged with, but this does it beautifully and meaningfully. Also, taking issue with the Senate’s most powerful leader in his home area demonstrates real editorial leadership.
Matt Hufman, Las Vegas Sun
With laser-like precision for logic and a sharp voice, Hufman gives readers a well reasoned, firm view. These editorials give readers something to chew on, and a position to take.
Steve Falcone, Reno Gazette-Journal
Strong writing, especially on the topic of marriage equality. The Gazette-Journal should be given plenty of credit for its layout and strong, principled stance.
Best Editorial Page
Steve Falcone, editor,
Reno Gazette-Journal
RGJ readers get a well-written edit page with robust and conflicting opinions, well-done editorials, interesting design and good columnists, especially Cory Farley and Randi Thompson. Impressed with local focus.
Staff, Las Vegas Review-Journal
Good, fact-based editorials that avoided emotionalism. Sometimes a bit too stodgy. Good cartoons and good local and national columnists. Steve Sebelius wrote especially clear, well-done columns. Good edit pages are usually full of different viewpoints, even if the editorials take a strong stand.
Las Vegas Sun
A very good third-place finisher. Well-done editorials, good columnists, a nice variety of topics. Top-notch edit pages have a variety of different opinions. Back-and-forth features are good, and Sun concentrates largely on liberal viewpoints.
Best Overall Design
Reno Gazette-Journal
So nice. An impressive blend of structure, creativity and beauty. Strategic use of photos, headline sizes/fonts, graphics and info boxes grab readers by the eyelashes and pull them in to stories that might otherwise get overlooked.
Las Vegas Review-Journal
Clean, balanced and appropriate use of headlines, fonts and photos throughout. Noteworthy photography and photo editing. Clearly the product of talented newspaper pros. Nice touches: the use of color in the Living section’s community calendar and “What’s Going On” feature.
Las Vegas Sun
Sound design with a flair for the daring — tastefully and successfully using words, graphics and photo illustrations as central design elements.
Best Page One Design
Design Staff, Las Vegas Sun
Powerful lead story design sometimes undone by weak writing. Do you really want to remind print readers they’re late to every story?
Staff, Las Vegas Review-Journal
Strong balance of lead story and teasers undone by mistakes in headers and disturbing illustration (is that man puking into a bag?)
Také Uda, Reno Gazette-Journal
Lower fold tries to cover too many bases, detracting from strength of main story design. And dominant front-page ad often fails to match graphic quality of rest of page.
Best Page Designer(s)
George Riggle,
Las Vegas Review-Journal
Bianca Camano, Reno Gazette-Journal
Marc Jenkins, Reno Gazette-Journal
Best Information Graphic
Urban Daily, Urban Weeklies, Magazines
Amanda Burden, Bambi Edlund,
edible Reno-Tahoe
How Grains Are Distilled Into Spirits
Excellent art and presentation — good information.
Michael Hogue, Brian Nordli,
The Sunday
All About Road Kill
In-depth and full coverage of topic. A gruesome topic presented in a way that provides pertinent information that draws the reader in.
William Neff, The Sunday
F-22 RAPTOR
Solid research on topic. Nice graphic.
Best Illustration
Urban Daily,Urban Weeklies,Magazines
Jon Reinfurt, Vegas Seven
Culture & Cash
The contrast of colors exploded off the page. It popped nicely. There was a good portion of white space to allow the reader to view the content easily and without having to try to remain focused on what was going on with the page. I enjoyed the use of colors.
Elizabeth Brown, The Sunday
Listen to yourself and loved ones
This illustration reminded me a bit of Starry Starry Night, by Vincent Van Gogh. With the use of colors, leaving the audience amazed and silent. What I found amazing is the use of colors painted out in waves. It really reflected the article in listening since sound is measured in waves.
At first, I thought it was a white face within the waves of colors, but as I focused more closely, I realized it was an ear. If this was done on purpose or not, the artist did it magnificently.
Brian Breneman, Reno News & Review
Failed experiment
What I liked about most about this page is the fact that white space was used appropriately. Too many times the cover is too busy and the audience cannot focus on the big picture. The colors blended very well together and the amount of spacing used between each illustration was sufficient.
Best News Photo Coverage
Sam Morris, Las Vegas Sun
El Super Clasico – Chivas Fan Beaten
Great sequence. The third photo in particular was stunning. Photographer made a great capture.
David Becker,
Las Vegas Review-Journal
Lightning storm over the Strip
I literally gasped when I saw this one. Lightning juxtaposed with bright buildings made this photo pop.
Jason Bean, Las Vegas Review-Journal
Soccer fans get violent in clashes at Sam Boyd Stadium
Great job getting in the right place for this dramatic shot.
Best Feature Photo
Marilyn Newton,
Reno Gazette-Journal
Pesky Cattle Dog
Great job of capturing a memorable moment. This photo brought a smile to every reader.
John Locher,
Las Vegas Review-Journal
Homecoming: Harper Miller waits for her father
Superbly composed shot allows you to feel the little girl’s emotions.
Marilyn Newton, Reno Gazette-Journal
Nose to Nose
This well framed shot goes beyond the color of hot-air balloons to frame a great moment that brings the balloons to life.
Best Multiple Photo Essay
Tim Dunn, Reno Gazette-Journal
Students grieve for teacher at vigil
Captured the emotion of the event under low light conditions.
L.E. Baskow, Las Vegas Sun
Life Cube Burning
Nice colorful presentation with some unique perspective. It makes me want to be there. Full of life.
Jeff Scheid, Las Vegas Review-Journal
Lonely Allure: Lincoln Highway Centennial
Excellent variety of photographic technique.
Best Portrait
Jeff Scheid, Las Vegas Review-Journal
Eagle Eye for the Thunderbirds (see cover)
Fine use of color and composition. The reflection on the desk brought this entry home a winner.
Marilyn Newton, Reno Gazette-Journal
Who You? Man With His Owl
Interesting use of wildlife and man — the owl cooperated with the photographer.
Andy Barron, Reno Gazette-Journal
DRI Scientist
Unique entry — the subject in their realm.
Best Illustrated Photo
Jessica Ebelhar,
Las Vegas Review-Journal
How do you like them apples?
Tasty.
Best Sports Photo
L.E. Baskow, Las Vegas Sun
Rodeo, Calf horn
Sharp focus, great framing of a precarious spot in a fast-moving sport.
Sam Morris, Las Vegas Sun
Roscoe dunk
Great positioning to capture the height of emotion. Love the ball in the foreground.
Andy Barron, Reno Gazette-Journal
Steer Wrestling — Fun in the Dirt
Well-framed shot shows the strength and concentration of the contestant. Nicely cropped to zero in on the action.
Best Special Section
(Editorial)
Staff, Las Vegas Review-Journal
Downtown
Bravo! This project that brought together different editorial departments was carried out wonderfully with reporting, writing, design, graphics and photos. Top notch.
Dorraine Earnest, Matt Lauc, Reno Gazette-Journal
Sierra Outdoors Adventures
A useful, nicely designed and wide ranging guide for outdoors lovers of all stripes.
Staff, Las Vegas Review-Journal
Best of Las Vegas
The staff must have production of this annual down to a science, and they deliver nicely with a comprehensive and fun read.
Best Large-Space Ad
Robert Johns, Reno Gazette-Journal
Jones West Ford Raptor Die-cut
Great stand alone piece as well as eye catching as an insert.
Robert Johns, Reno Gazette-Journal
Jones West Ford Eyeball
Great visual and play off of product name — works best as a campaign with other ads.
Robert Johns, Reno Gazette-Journal
Jones West Ford Raptor Silhouette
Best Advertising Innovation
Robert Johns, Reno Gazette-Journal
2013 Hot August Nights license plate
Michael Rollman,
Reno Gazette-Journal
BestBets Eblast
Michael Rollman,
Reno Gazette-Journal
RGJ Recipe Contest
Best Multi-Color Ad
Robert Johns, Reno Gazette-Journal
Jones West Ford Raptor Silhouette
Great design concept in keeping with the product. Love the colors.
Robert Johns, Reno Gazette-Journal
Jones West Ford Eyeball
Eye catching!
Robert Johns, Reno Gazette-Journal
Jones West Ford Raptor Die-cut
Nice look.
Best Special Section or Campaign (Advertising)
Staff, Reno Gazette-Journal
Hot August Nights wrap
A clear winner. Unique presentation of material and great graphics. Really like the horizontal car fronting the vertical section. Compels attention.
Dorraine Earnest, Matt Lauc,
Reno Gazette-Journal
Sierra Outdoors Adventures Winter
Well organized and clean with good selection of stories. A slightly more creative layout would have been nice to see.
Dorraine Earnest, Stephen Reich, Reno Gazette-Journal
Hot August Nights program
A good example of a partnership between the newspaper and a local event.
Best-In House Promotion
Michael Rollman,
Reno Gazette-Journal
RGJ Recipe Contest
Good idea, and the prizes are substantial. I expect this got a good response.
Best Web Site
Reno Gazette-Journal
RGJ.com
Las Vegas Sun
lasvegassun.com
Las Vegas Review-Journal
www.reviewjournal.com
Best Multimedia Story
Jackie Valley, Leila Navidi,
Las Vegas Sun
Grace Through Grief: A Shattered Family Recovers
Chapter lineup was daunting at first, but every installment compelled moving to the next. Writing and photography excellent. Video segments almost an afterthought, but provided media variety.
Review-Journal staff,
Las Vegas Review-Journal
Delivering a New Downtown
Eye-catching photo and video elements undermined by editing problems and too much story. Cut in half, this would have won.
Liz Margerum, Reno Gazette-Journal
The Art of the Showgirl
While not as inventive as some entries, the clean storytelling made this an enjoyable viewing.
Best Online Writing
Emerson Marcus,
Reno Gazette-Journal
Ask the RGJ blog
Yvonne Beasley, Mark Robison, Steve Timko, Reno Gazette-Journal
Reno Rebirth blog
Steve Sebelius, Las Vegas Review-Journal
SlashPolitics.com
Intermediate
General Excellence
The Record-Courier
Nevada Appeal
Desert Valley Times
Journalist of Merit
Dylan Woolf Harris, Elko Daily Free Press
Good variety of work, solid writing and reporting skills. This was a tough category to choose, but the breadth of the stories here made the difference.
Community Service
Dylan Harris, Heather Kennison, Ross Andréson, Caley Cook, John Rasche, Elko Daily Free Press
METH
Comprehensive look at methamphetamine use from every angle — users, law enforcement, medical experts, treatment providers and more — took the extra step of exploring potential solutions and why the community should care. Every entry was compelling. Great job.
Marianne McKown, Dylan Harris, Heather Kennison, Elaine Bassier,
Martin Harris, Ross Andréson,
Elko Daily Free Press
PINK edition
Nice job of personalizing the issue of breast cancer. Strong ad support for the series added to community buy-in.
Jesselyn Bickley, Mike Donahue, Tracy (Therresa) Worthington,
Desert Valley Times
Langston strives for new kidney
Well-told story of one young man’s fight for wellness. Series could have benefited from a somewhat more expansive look at the disease and at the complicated transplant program.
Best Spot News Story
Matt Ward, Pahrump Valley Times
FBI seizes Matson’s computers
The story is well-rounded. It provides ample context for the reader and is well-researched.
Matt Ward, Pahrump Valley Times
Man missing since July found slain
Comments from the deceased’s spouse make this story.
Jesselyn Bickley, Desert Valley Times
Mesquite homes sinking
Clear reporting established a timeline of events, which was important to the topic, and was augmented by effective photography.
Best Feature Story
Amy Edgett, Sierra Sun
Living while dying, one day at a time
This was by far the best entry in the category. The opening captures the reader and the attachment holds throughout. Filled with wonderful descriptions: “He is the man who refused to grow up, who still doesn’t eat broccoli, and just wants to play. But he can’t.” GREAT JOB!
Amy Edgett, Sierra Sun
Symbol-making, ritual and singing over bones
Great lede, strong descriptive language made this an attention grabber.
Caryn Haller, The Record-Courier
Born to teach
A simple story, well told that personalizes the mother and daughter and brings a love of teaching to life.
Best Nonstaff Story
Dee Holzel, Elko Daily Free Press
Travelers describe cop’s confiscation of cash
This was an interesting read. It really gripped me. I’m curious about what happened with the lawsuit.
Sara Wittenberg, Elko Daily Free Press
Hollow Victory
A good story on an interesting issue.
Sally Roberts, Nevada Appeal
In the pilot’s seat for D-Day
Best Business News Story
Mark Waite, Pahrump Valley Times
138-acre Binion Ranch for sale for $2.2 million
An interesting history about what could have been a boring old land sale story. Nice retelling of a complicated background, and tying it back to the news at the end.
Marianne McKown, Elko Daily Free Press
Jerritt Canyon issued 61 citations
Important to keep the mining companies honest. It’s a key role for journalists to keep after this.
Mark Waite, Pahrump Valley Times
Dueling cab companies compete for license
Contains important ingredient for good business journalism: conflict. Stakes are apparent throughout this story.
Best Business Feature
Mark Waite, Pahrump Valley Times
Pahrump agriculture dominated by specialty farming today (plus sidebars)
This story effectively demonstrated how Vegas restaurants and water rights shape the agroeconomy of a rural area.
Heather Kennison, Elko Daily Free Press
Lining up for land
Captured a piece of contemporary wild west culture by talking to the investors themselves.
Margaret Moran, Sierra Sun
All in the family
Interesting topic and well-written, but the story would have benefited from more detail on the resort’s struggles.
Best Explanatory Journalism
Dylan Woolf Harris, Elko Daily Free Press
How your pizza money becomes a police force
A first-place award for a story about pizza taxes? Sounds crazy, but this was a great explanation about municipal finances that is easy for everyone to understand. Well written and as concise as a story about municipal finance can be. Great graphics to go with it.
Thomas Ranson, Steve Puterski, Kelly Davis, Lahontan Valley News
Fallon’s quest for a state championship
State championship football ignites a community like nothing else. The package was a written well for people with a moderate interest in football. Lots of work went into it, but it was well worth it. Great page design and graphics. A story on how the community is all excited about it would have been nice.
Mark Waite, Pahrump Valley Times
SORRY! PLEASE COME AGAIN! Federal government shuts down; ripple effects felt locally (with sidebars)
Every question you could have about the government shutdown was answered in this extensive, well researched story. The sidebar on cutting the size of government was interesting. Dividing the story into two or three parts would have been nice. The type looked a bit intimidating.
Best News Feature Story
Steve Ranson, Lahontan Valley News
Rodeo was her life: Rachel Hendrix death
Teri Vance, Nevada Appeal
Breaking free from fear
Heather Kennison, Elko Daily Free Press
Affordable Care? Residents find kinks in state exchange
Best Investigative or
In-depth Story or Series
Dylan Harris, Heather Kennison, Ross Andreson, Caley Cook, John Rasche, Elko Daily Free Press
Who’s Winning Elko’s War on Meth?
Impressive work on a difficult community problem. The Free Press staff surrounded the issue with solid reporting and vivid writing. The reporters and editors provide a thoughtful package, enhanced by strong infographics and compelling design.
Mike Donahue, Jesselyn Bickley,
Desert Valley Times
Bundy, BLM battle
Strong reporting on a story that caught the nation’s attention. No one had better sources within Bundy family than the persistent reporters of the Desert Valley Times. The only additional coverage I wanted to see was a backgrounder on the ownership of the land in question and more from ranchers who did not support Bundy’s tactics.
Best Local Column
Tracy (Therresa) Worthington,
Desert Valley Times
And More
I liked the way you wrote about your personal experiences; your columns flowed nicely; well done
Jesselyn Bickley, Desert Valley Times
Mesquite: My Future Begins Here
Good mix of personal stories and pieces about issues of the day such as teen pregnancy.
David Henley, Lahontan Valley News
David C. Henley
Lots of historical facts and insight about World War II era
Best Non-staff Column
Orlis Trone, Lahontan Valley News
Orlis Trone
Jeanette Strong, Lahontan Valley News
By the Way
Andy Barbano, Sparks Tribune
Hopelessly trying to win an earthquake
Best Sports Story
Darrell Moody, Nevada Appeal
Overtime gem sends CHS girls into title game
Sylas Wright, Sierra Sun
Rahlves’ Banzai Tour wraps up at Sugar Bowl
Blake Samanas, Elko Daily Free Press
Home of the Braves
Best Sports Feature
Sylas Wright, Sierra Sun
A fine hike — for a graveyard
Beautiful descriptions of scenery and trail makes reader feel like they’ve already hiked it
Nathan Shoup, Sparks Tribune
Sharpshooter
Nice story of success through adversity
Thomas Ranson, Lahontan Valley News
Pinders
Great build up of information, much insight into the type of people the athletes are
Best Sports Column
Thomas Ranson, Lahontan Valley News
Behind the Plate
Nice writing style — Ranson comes to the plate with something to say.
Steve Puterski, Lahontan Valley News
Riding the Pine
Puterski remains focused on the topic and brings the story home. First and second place were clearly a cut above the other entries.
Tony Erquiaga, The Humboldt Sun
For What It’s Worth
Best Editorial Writing
Steve Ranson, Lahontan Valley News
Jeffry Mullins, Elko Daily Free Press
Matt Ward, Pahrump Valley Times
Best Editorial Page
Nevada Appeal Staff, Nevada Appeal
Pretty good mix, especially of letters and local columns. Needs more forceful editorials.
Jeffry Mullins, Elko Daily Free Press
Good editorial writing. The columnists tended to be nationally syndicated.
Best Overall Design
Lahontan Valley News
The Record-Courier
Nevada Appeal
Best Page One Design
Staff, Nevada Appeal
Marianne McKown, Jeffry Mullins, Elko Daily Free Press
Staff, The Record-Courier
Best Page Designer(s)
Emily Stott, Nevada Appeal
Nice use of color and graphics, flows nicely
Emily Stott, Sierra Sun
Nice use of space, nice graphics and feature photos
Laci Thompson, Lahontan Valley News
Nice versatility for different subjects
Best Information Graphic
Intermediate, Community
Ken Green, Elko Daily Free Press
Hospital net income
Ken pretty much knocked it out of the park in this category. Very well done, and well-used on the page.
Best Illustration
Intermediate, Community
Ken Green, Elko Daily Free Press
Food items needed
Chris Morris, Vegas Inc.
Scamming the System
Chris Morris, Vegas Inc.
Gay marriage could be a $52M industry in Nevada
Best News Photo Coverage
Jim Grant, Nevada Appeal
Memorial Day II
A nice set of images from a fairly typical assignment.
Jim Grant, The Record-Courier
Chambers Field Fire
The firefighters add a nice detail to a well exposed image.
Ross Andréson, Elko Daily Free Press
Hill sentenced
Good expression on the defendant’s face.
Best Feature Photo
Jim Grant, Nevada Appeal
Making a spalsh
Jim Grant, Nevada Appeal
CHS Band
Shannon Litz, Nevada Appeal
Caution: Governor Crossing
Best Multiple Photo Essay
Steve Ranson, Laci Thompson,
Lahontan Valley News
Bull sale
A nice look at the overall process of the bull sale.
Laci Thompson, Thomas Ranson,
Lahontan Valley News
Greenwave Country
Good use of mixing action and feature photos.
Best Portrait
Ross Andréson, Elko Daily Free Press
Waddie Mitchell
Jim Grant, The Record-Courier
Artist Reflection
Steve Ranson, Lahontan Valley News
Cuteness
Best Illustrated Photo
Matt Unrau, Elko Daily Free Press
Can’t Shake ‘Em
Very creative idea to illustrate that the runner in second place is the focus and is hot on the heals of the competition. Well executed, interesting perspective. The only thing I think to make it better is to run the photo bigger! The yellow box kind of takes away from the impact but that’s a design thing. Nice job.
Matt Unrau, Elko Daily Free Press
Spartans, Indians Soar
Nice multiple picture illustration to illustrate the art of the long jump. Like the lower angle to get a nice clean sky behind the jumper. Nothing like shooting on the blue sky day! Nice job.
Jim Grant, Nevada Appeal
Rain
Always hard to show rain unless it’s really coming down of there are people dealing with the elements. Nice image but it seems to us to be missing the human element. Somebody walking past or standing on the porch.
Best Sports Photo
Jim Grant, Nevada Appeal
Brace yourself
Jim Grant, Nevada Appeal
Diving stop
Jim Grant, Nevada Appeal
Safe or out?
Best Special Section
(Editorial)
Staff, Sierra Sun
Tahoe Magazine
Carmen Kofoed, The Humboldt Sun
101 Things to do in Northern Nevada
Staff, The Record-Courier
Carson Valley Almanac
Best Large-Space Ad
Brittany Shober, The Humboldt Sun
Build Your Own Burger
Great use of graphic and message. Even in black and white I want to try this burger!
Joe Plummer, The Humboldt Sun
80s party
Love the color theme and easy to read message. I knew exactly what was happening at a glance.
Brittany Shober, The Humboldt Sun
Mattress Sale
Great use of black and white. I knew exactly what was being marketed and where to go to shop for it.
Best Black & White Ad
Brittany Shober, The Humboldt Sun
Build Your Own Burger
Nice use of graphics and white space.
Joe Plummer, The Humboldt Sun
Mineshaft Party
Placement of ad as dominant dark object on page draws attention to ad.
Brittany Shober, The Humboldt Sun
Museum Art show
Clear, simple ad with lots of white space makes ad easy to read.
Best Multi-Color Ad
Joanna Vernarecci, Keigh Cox,
Lahontan Valley News
Spooktacular
Great ad. Very interesting design concept and clear communication of ad message.
Brittany Shober, The Humboldt Sun
Dubble Check
Clever use of money graphic to create the horse!
Terri DelaRosby, Lahontan Valley News
Live Local Fallon
Nice, clean design with easy to follow presentation of concept.
Best Special Section or Campaign (Advertising)
Elko Daily Free Press
Mining Quarterly
The Record-Courier
Carson Valley Almanac
Best-In House Promotion
Robert Reusser, Kippy Spiker,
Lahontan Valley News
In-House Advertising promotion
Nice community-spirited effort by a newspaper willing to lead.
Brittany Shober, The Humboldt Sun
Hunting Photos
The graphic is cool, and it’s a good way to encourage reader participation.
Advertising General
Excellence
Nevada Appeal
Elko Daily Free Press
The Record-Courier
Best Web Site
The Record-Courier
www.recordcourier.com
The sites were quite similar, and I didn’t find any major deficiencies. The edge goes to the Record-Courier for what seem to be frequent updates and interactions with readers.
Elko Daily Free Press
elkodaily.com
Best Multimedia Story
Kurt Hildebrand, The Record-Courier
Bison fire tops 7,000 acres
The video adds considerable value to the story.
Best Online Writing
R-C Staff, The Record-Courier
The R-C Running Commentary
Lively and informative.
Community
General Excellence
Boulder City Review
Lots of local news. A full-service community newspaper.
VEGAS INC
Good-looking, good writing. The business focus of the publication handicaps it a bit in a general category like this.
Journalist of Merit
Ed Komenda, Vegas Inc.
Impressive work from a young journalist.
Community Service
Lory Jones, One Voice
NvE Employees Celebrate Holidays in Many Ways
Nice holiday effort.
Best Spot News Story
Jack Johnson, Boulder City Review
Natural Asbestos Found Around City
Debra Reid, Lovelock Review-Miner
Residents ready to fight proposed homeless shelter on Reservoir Road
Angela Mann, Comstock Chronicle
Attorney General Ruling
Best Feature Story
Conor Shine, Vegas Inc.
Mulroy spent career getting Nevada its share of water
It was thorough, it not only gave me personality, but gave me stats, what types of challenges were going on. Well rounded. I could tell a lot of work went into this. I also liked how it was sectioned off.
Ed Komenda, Vegas Inc.
Unsolved mystery: Who is sabotaging the Strip’s sheets and towels with dye bombs?
I really enjoyed this story. It had flair, gave me the news but in a way I could relate to the owner and the business. It also gave me a peek into the harsh business environment.
Eli Segall, Vegas Inc.
Doughnut Rambo: Cambodian refugee finds success, friendship in Las Vegas
It gave me a real good look into the character. It was like taking a glimpse into a store I’ve never been to. Without pictures, I could visualize the shop, and the guy profiled.
Best Nonstaff Story
Brock Radke, Vegas Inc.
Morton Family Has Stamped It’s Name on City’s History
Excellent in-depth story
Valerie Miller, Henderson Press
Halloween attractions scaring up business across the valley
Great lead for this enjoyable story.
Valerie Miller, Henderson Press
Requiem for a Heavyweight
Nice, light story.
Best Business News Story
Ed Komenda, Vegas Inc.
Cashing in on the undead: Owner of Zombie shop banks on popularity of brain-eating monsters
The subject of this story is fun on its own, but the writer added the extra details to make the difference.
Andrew Doughman, Vegas Inc.
Consumer watchdog: NV Energy plan will drive up rates.
A straight-forward story with lots of detail.
John Katsilometes, Vegas Inc.
In game of Crazy 8s, Silicon Valley group claims Stirling Club
Love the lead and explanation of the purchase price.
Best Business Feature
Ed Komenda, Vegas Inc.
Bail bondsman Jon Foster is a nice guy — until you skip court
Ed Komenda, Vegas Inc.
Drinking at the Bellagio: How booze travels from a secret room to your glass
Ed Komenda, Vegas Inc.
Comfort over caviar: How to wine and dine clients in a recovering economy
Best Explanatory Journalism
Andrew Doughman, Vegas Inc.
How NV Energy will exit coal and make money doing it
I think this was well researched and well written. While I got lost in the flow a few times, I had no questions left.
Ed Komenda, Vegas Inc.
How casinos prepared for the $100 bill
I still had a few pending questions when I finished reading this article, such as what the changes cost, but I really enjoyed reading about the process.
Valerie Miller, Henderson Press
Identity thieves target tax refunds — we all pay the price
I like this read, thought it was very valid and well explained, but kind of wanted some more local ties.
Best News Feature Story
Andrew Doughman, Vegas Inc.
Business-funded Group Pushes Back On Union Tactics
Heather Hill, Battle Mountain Bugle
Remembering Fred
Angela Mann, Comstock Chronicle
The Piper Legacy
Best Investigative or
In-depth Story or Series
Eli Segall, Vegas Inc.
Incorporating in Nevada: Business benefit or shell game?
Eli Segall, Vegas Inc.
Finding Its Footing: Las Vegas’ tech sector has come a long way/What are we up against
Bethany Barnes, Vegas Inc.
Attorneys cry foul over DA paying witnesses, destroying receipts
Best Local Column
Heather Hill, Battle Mountain Bugle
To Put it Simply
I really enjoyed reading these columns. Entertaining and insightful.
Best Non-staff Column
Thomas Mitchell, Ely Times
Mine opening could be delayed
Well-reported and packed with information, columns take strong stance on issues.
Jim Poston, Virginia City News
Maze of Twisty Little Passages
Good local tidbits, fun to read.
Best Sports Story
Sylas Wright,
North Lake Tahoe Bonanza
Girls win first state championship since 1985
Sylas Wright,
North Lake Tahoe Bonanza
Girls capture second straight DIII state title
Pedro Fonteboa, Boulder City Review
Lady Eagles lose
Best Sports Feature
Pedro Fonteboa, Boulder City Review
Opponents, fans experience double vision
An excellent story on a unique and interesting subject. Well done.
Pedro Fonteboa, Boulder City Review
Klouse ready to transition from pool to course
Pedro Fonteboa, Boulder City Review
New softball coach ready for challenge
Best Critical Writing
Cynthia Kennedy, Patrick Kennedy, Virginia City News
Fun to read. It’s nice when a reviewer shows some enthusiasm for the subject.
Best Editorial Writing
Thomas Mitchell, Ely Times
Education funding lawsuit not likely
Well-written and informative.
Best Overall Design
Design Staff, Vegas Inc.
Sharp, clean, modern design carried throughout the publications, with lots of nice touches,
David Wieand, One Voice
Bright and bold look.
Best Page One Design
Emily Stott,
North Lake Tahoe Bonanza
Nice use of lead art. It really captures the reader’s attention.
Rick Hoover, Battle Mountain Bugle
I like the variety on the front pages; it gives the reader plenty without overwhelming them.
Hali Bernstein Saylor, Jenny Scheid, Boulder City Review
Good use of space; the reader’s eye flows across the page.
Best Page Designer(s)
Emily Stott, Laci Thompson,
North Lake Tahoe Bonanza
Clean, attractive and readable. Good use of art and typefaces.
Best News Photo Coverage
Steve Andrascik,
Boulder City Review
Esther Drive residence demolished
Good photo. Captures the essence of the story, but without the cutline one would be unsure of what the photo was about. I especially like the one with the charred police book.
Steve Andrascik, Boulder City Review
Santa’s Electric Light Parade
Picture of Santa is welcoming, warm.
Steve Marcus, Vegas Inc.
Downtown Grand: Casino Reinvented
I like the wide angle on the photo.
Best Feature Photo
Leila Navidi, Vegas Inc.
Say “Cheesecake”
A fun image with lots of energy.
Angela Mann, Comstock Chronicle
Steam at dawn
Nice light and the people add a sense of scale.
Steve Marcus, Vegas Inc.
Fitness for all ages
Good expressions on both subjects.
Best Multiple Photo Essay
Christopher DeVargas, Vegas Inc.
Happy Hatter
This photo package was the best example of really telling a story with all three images. Nice action shot of the hat maker, nice overall image of the business and nice detail of the hats. Strong clean layout also added to the strength of the picture package.
Angela Mann, Comstock Chronicle
Fourth of July
Really enjoyed seeing the photographer use a few different points of view at the parade. There were some nice moments as well. Liked the detail of the dog, liked the perspective of the horses walking by and the silhouette of the cowboys playing music. A good picture package puts the reader at the event and these images gave us a good since of what was going on.
Angela Mann, Comstock Chronicle
Civil War
Not your typical parade with clowns and smiling kids chasing after candy. We all thought the images of the Civil War reenactment were engaging and rather realistic. Good action and drama. The photographer used interesting perspectives including shooting right behind the action in the middle of the street. Nice job.
Best Portrait
L.E. Baskow, Vegas Inc.
Anna Ledesma
Nice use of light.
Sam Morris, Vegas Inc.
Pat Mulroy
Interesting pose and framing.
L.E. Baskow, Vegas Inc.
Michael Spinetti
Clean portrait.
Best Sports Photo
Sylas Wright,
North Lake Tahoe Bonanza
How sweet it is
Fine celebration shot. You captured the moment.
Best Special Section
(Editorial)
Carmen Kofoed, Lora Enget, Terrie Chism, Lovelock Review-Miner
Pershing County Visitors Guide
I like the local flavor of this visitor guide, and also the fact that it has a house ad that contains important information about, among other things, where the reader can go for additional local information.
Carmen Kofoed, Kayla Koseck, Joe Plummer, Brittany Shober,
Battle Mountain Bugle
Lander County Discovery Guide
Rob Langrell, Staff, Vegas Inc.
Healthcare Quarterly
Best Large-Space Ad
Joe Plummer, Kayla Love-Koseck,
Battle Mountain Bugle
Tire Factory Far Away
Eye catching graphic, good use of fonts and catchy headline
Terrie Chism, Lora Mattingly-Enget, Lovelock Review-Miner
Relay for Life
Nice graphic good layout. Would have like to seen all the times lined up.
Joe Plummer, Kayla Love-Koseck, Battle Mountain Bugle
Tire Factory
Good graphic, catchy headline
Best Black & White Ad
Brittany Shober, Battle Mountain Bugle
Colt
Love the look, it is consistent with the name, message easy to grab and go. Nice use of shading/logo/white space
Brittany Shober, Battle Mountain Bugle
Craft Show
The message is clear, fun font really draws you in to the Craft Show message. Clean, not too much text
Terrie Chism, Lora Mattingly-Enget, Lovelock Review-Miner
New Stylist
Small ad, but clean and simple, if I was looking for a hairdresser it would have gotten my attention quickly.
Best Multi-Color Ad
Carlos Herrera, Vegas Inc.
Joe Downtown Radio Show
Carlos Herrera, Vegas Inc.
40 Under 40
Joe Plummer, Kayla Love-Koseck,
Battle Mountain Bugle
Tire Factory Far Away
Best Special Section or Campaign (Advertising)
Rob Langrell, Staff, Vegas Inc.
Giving Guide
Beautiful, consistent design and I love the generous use of white space!
Rob Langrell, Staff, Vegas Inc.
Top Doctors
Rob Langrell, Staff, Vegas Inc.
Book of Business Lists
Best-In House Promotion
Carlos Herrera, Vegas Inc.
40 Under 40
Glitzy enough to grab my initial reaction, yet clean enough once it did to understand simply what was going on.
Carlos Herrera, Vegas Inc.
Takin’ Care of Business
Carlos Herrera, Vegas Inc.
Joe Downtown Radio Show
Best Web Site
Vegas Inc.
vegasinc.com
Good mix of news, useful information. I wasn’t thrilled about the design and functionality of the site, though.
The Nevada Sagebrush, Chris Boline
nevadasagebrush.com
This is a very attractive site with good organization and features. Unfortunately, when I reviewed it the site hadn’t been updated for weeks and some of the front-page stories were months old.
Urban Weeklies
General Excellence
Vegas Seven
Reno News & Review
Las Vegas Weekly
Journalist of Merit
Mark Adams, Las Vegas Weekly
Mark gets the edge over the other impressive nominees in the Journalist of Merit category with his advancement into the web editor ranks to go with his enthusiastic, conversational, fun and observant writing.
Community Service
Jackie Valley, The Sunday Staff,
The Sunday
Saving Pedestrians Lives on our Streets
D. Brian Burghart,
Reno News & Review
It’s the law. Follow it; Let the sunshine in; Who watches the watchers?; Death in the Afternoon; Who shot Darcie Latham?
Steve Blust, Ginger Meurer,
View Neighborhood Newspapers
Naming Las Vegas series
Best Spot News Story
Dennis Myers, Reno News & Review
Tradition
Information presented in good sequence and flow
Dennis Myers, Reno News & Review
The West is burning
Good information provided, opposing views could have been left out, doesn’t seem relevant to story
D. Brian Burghart,
Reno News & Review
Who shot Darcie Latham?
More facts about incident seem to be lacking
Best Feature Story
Conor Shine, Andrea Domanick, Brad Kava, The Sunday
The Nation’s Most Endangered Waterway
Great package, great graphics, great storytelling.
David G. Schwartz, Vegas Seven
The Book That Tried to End Las Vegas
Good story, good writing, good package
Ana Ley, The Sunday
The baby in the body bag
Interesting story. I started reading and couldn’t stop.
Best Nonstaff Story
Georgia Fisher, Reno News & Review
A tragedy in Sparks
Emotional story that engages the reader to read more and gives understanding of the actual event with quotes and various perspective.
Linda Simpson, View Neighborhood
Mom promotes gun safety after teen daughter’s death
Story provides factual information with an emotional tie on a topic of interest, engages the reader.
Jessica Santina, Reno News & Review
The Doctor Won’t See You Now
Informative article on a topic that could apply to almost any reader with new information and insight on where healthcare may be going. Makes the reader ask the question — what could be next?
Best Business News Story
Caitlyn Belcher, View Neighborhood
After years driving a food truck, couple prepare to open Mochiko Fried Chicken restaurant
Dennis Myers, Reno News & Review
Manufacturing commerce; Making stuff legal
Caitlyn Belcher, View Neighborhood
Heartbeat of the community
Best Business Feature
D. Brian Burghart,
Reno News & Review
Bitcoin: In math we trust
Andrew Doughman, The Sunday
It’s amazing what political candidates know about you
Brock Radke, Las Vegas Weekly
Family business: How the Mortons left their mark on Las Vegas
Best Explanatory Journalism
Conor Shine, Andrea Domanick, Brad Kava, The Sunday
The Nation’s Most Endangered Waterway
Erin Ryan, Las Vegas Weekly
Nevada needs more than a medical school to improve the state’s health
D. Brian Burghart,
Reno News & Review
Who watches the watchers? Death in the Afternoon
Best News Feature Story
Michael Lyle, View Neighborhood
Resident changes his life after arrests, 50 years of alcoholism
Excellent story, well-written with language that truly portrays the human condition, which is a vital element in feature story writing. You let the subjects’ emotions come through, yet made sure you were doing the story telling.
Michael Lyle, View Neighborhood
Henderson man cheats death, keeps running despite losing feet and hands
Tovin Lapan, The Sunday
Marooned In Mexico
Best Investigative or
In-depth Story or Series
James DeHaven, View Neighborhood
Rent strike considered in troubled North Las Vegas apartment complex
Very well written piece, with lots of comments from the people most affected. This was a tough subject and you presented it in a way that kept the reader riveted to the story and the series.
Conor Shine, Andrea Domanick, Brad Kava, The Sunday
The Nation’s Most Endangered Waterway
Well written with interesting graphics. It’s a subject that has been addressed a lot but you gave it a new perspective.
Jackie Valley, The Sunday
Death and Dismemberment in Las Vegas
Very well done with lots of facts and events presented in a way that didn’t drag the reader down.
Best Local Column
Joe Schoenmann, Las Vegas Weekly
Joe Downtown
Excellent look at a variety of unique and fascinating subjects. Good selection of subject matter presented very well. Good reading!
David G. Schwartz, Vegas Seven
Green Felt Journal
Well-written and good topic selection. Interesting subject matter presented very well.
D. Brian Burghart,
Reno News & Review
Decrease the obliquity of the ecliptic; Headlines; It’s money that matters; You’ll think what you’re told
Interesting point of view.
Best Non-staff Column
Brendan Trainor, Reno News & Review
If only spotted owls were delicious; Drug prohibition fuels society’s ills; Who’s fracking whom?
Smart, witty, not your typical conservative columnist. This guy tackles issues with flair and a unique perspective.
Sheila Leslie, Reno News & Review
Dear City of Reno mayoral candidate; Give ‘em hell, Jenny; Give the MOST to mental health care
Excellent writing, thought-provoking topics and a unique spirit give this column great readability!
Bruce Van Dyke, Reno News & Review
The real hummers/ On down the road/ Back at square one
Interesting perspectives and a zippy writing style make his columns pop. Fun to read.
Best Sports Story
Ray Brewer, The Sunday
Faith in Sportsmanship Restored
A moving, inspirational story, and Brewer told it perfectly.
Brad Bynum, Reno News & Review
Fight night
Interesting look at a brutal sport. It could have been tighter, more focused.
Best Sports Feature
Cody Johnson, Reno News & Review
Show me the money!
Relevant reporting on a timely national issue in a locally focused manner. Well sourced, well written and nicely presented.
Sean DeFrank, Vegas Seven
The Unsinkable Shark
This is obviously an ambitious project. Extremely well sourced. I struggle with it in that it is essentially editing, not writing and it lacks a focused relevance to newspaper journalism. Oral histories have their place, but a little goes a long way when spilling ink.
Michael Lyle, View Neighborhood
Spirit of recovery to propel Pink Paddlers at Henderson’s regatta
Great human interest for a sport’s essay. Reported to show the benefit of sport and athletic pursuit beyond competition and a quest for glory. Nicely done.
Best Entertainment Writing
Bob Grimm, Reno News & Review
Hammer and cheese, In your favor and Into the fire?
Xania Woodman, Vegas Seven
Anthony Bourdain, Wild Woman, Small Beer’s Big Hurdle
F. Andrew Taylor, View Neighborhood
Performer keeps music of crooners alive, Las Vegas Academy prepares to premiere, In the Heights, Troupe to tie macabre into Chekhov comedy
Best Critical Writing
Jessica Santina, Reno News & Review
The kids are alright, Mixed bag and Empty canvas
This is what this type of writing is all about
Josh Bell, Las Vegas Weekly
Josh Bell’s film reviews
Well done, concise and to the point, but maybe a little too short.
Todd South, Reno News & Review
Working on my tandoori, Family meal and Friend or pho
Good work and very much what you want in this type of review.
Best Editorial Writing
Matt Hufman, The Sunday
Dennis Myers, Reno News & Review
Our toxic democracy, Our safe schools, Olympic sprawl
D. Brian Burghart,
Reno News & Review
Don’t expect a cakewalk, Let the sunshine in, It’s the law. Follow it.
Best Editorial Page
The Sunday
Creative approaches to the editorial page, using graphics and pro-active arguments to tell readers why they should care.
Best Overall Design
Ryan Olbrysh, Vegas Seven
Top-notch magazine. Loved the look and feel of it and how it represents Las Vegas. Tons of advertising with interesting articles. Great job.
Las Vegas Weekly
Difficult choice to have to put this in second place. Both 1st & 2nd place received 10s for the quality of work that was put into them. Enjoyed reading.
Staff, The Sunday
Interesting stories and great advertising design layouts all make for a nice publication.
Well done!
Best Page One Design
Hayley Doshay, Brian Breneman, Reno News & Review
Creative and eye catching
Jennifer Land, Las Vegas Business Press
Good graphics
Staff, View Neighborhood
I like the clean, simple look
Best Page Designer(s)
Corlene Byrd, Las Vegas Weekly
Clean, easy to read without clutter. Photo illustrations are strong and new.
Marvin Lucas, Las Vegas Weekly
Clever use of graphics and photographic content, small graphic surprises
Wesley Gatbonton, Las Vegas Weekly
Clever graphics, but sometimes too cluttered. Had to really stuggle to make sense of tons of tiny elements.
Best News Photo Coverage
L.E. Baskow, Las Vegas Weekly
Jay-Z performs at Mandalay Bay
Good control of exposure and composition, yet lacking real emotion or newsworthiness.
L.E. Baskow, Las Vegas Weekly
Variety Show Act
Interesting. Not sure what the story is.
Martin S. Fuentes, View Neighborhood
Crying fowl
Interesting use of line.
Best Feature Photo
Christopher DeVargas, Las Vegas Weekly
Showbots
As judges it is always a treat to see something new and fresh. One judge laughed and said it was part The Office TV show and part Star Wars parts department. Very well composed. You captured a great moment and the lighting is well done.
Anthony Mair, Vegas Seven
Freakling Out
Always refreshing to see a well thought out composition that can tell its own story. Each person has their own space and room to do their own thing. Lighting is great and the whole image just feels fresh and engaging. Make us really want to the story behind these individuals.
Sam Morris, Las Vegas Weekly
Sina King performs during the Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend
Of all the entries this one was the most artistic. great light on the subject, interesting composition and great use of all the textures. Always nice to see the photographer take chances and this one paid off. Nice job.
Best Multiple Photo Essay
L.E. Baskow, The Sunday
Life Lessons: The Weird, Happy and Organized World of a Really Big Family
Nice clean portraits with telling expression, great variety of candids with strong graphic composition and lines. The perfect combo of skill, design and emotion. I understand this family without even reading the text. That is a successful essay.
Corlene Byrd, L.E. Baskow, Las Vegas Weekly
Fremont Street Then & Now
Interesting photo illustrations, at first a bit hard to read the intent, but freshly done.
Julian Kilker, Vegas Seven
The Dark Beauty of Desolation
Great use of artificial light and gells to paint color into forgotten landscapes that once were useful and meaningful.
Best Portrait
Adam Shane, Las Vegas Weekly
Ross Mollison
This portrait is dripping with sophistication and we like it! Lighting is complimented by the rich use of color. The moment is tense and really pulls the viewer in. Well done.
Nick Coletsos, Las Vegas Weekly
Nightlife Issue
Fantastic over-the-top portrait. The composition is well thought out and the layering is quite incredible. The image is very powerful and full of excitement. Exactly what the magazine’s editor and art director were hoping for, we bet! Well done.
Anthony Mair, Vegas Seven
Mark Hall-Patton
Really like the mood in the portrait. Love the separation from the background to the foreground. The whole image just feels right and seems to fit the subject very well.
Best Illustrated Photo
Corlene Byrd, L.E. Baskow, Las Vegas Weekly
Fremont Street Then & Now
The combination of historical and new photos is dramatic and telling. The result is truly works of art.
Christopher DeVargas, Las Vegas Weekly
Chris “CJ” Jhureea
Well-composed, great idea.
Best Sports Photo
Sam Morris, Las Vegas Weekly
Silva Leg
Great moment. Love the perspective from right on the mat and shooting through the fence make the moment more dramatic. We can feel the pain this fighter is going though. Nice work.
L.E. Baskow, The Sunday
Clayton Rhodes
Sometimes it’s the moment away from the action that tells us the story. This is a great slice of life and reaction by the player on the bench which the story is really about.
Erik Verduzco, View Neighborhood
Love of kickball unites people across the valley, nation
Love seeing images of sports we don’t see everyday. This is a nice image that give you a good idea of what the game of kickball is al about. Love the feeling of playing a neighborhood game under the lights at night.
Best Special Section
(Editorial)
Phil Hagen, Greg Milller, Vegas Seven
Intriguing People 2014
Tasty little news nuggets about the featured peeps along with captivating photo portraits.
Staff, Reno News & Review
Family Guide: Family Food Fun
Nice features, graphics, headlines and flow. Bon appetit! I’ll have seconds.
Phil Hagen, Greg Miller, Vegas Seven
Best of the city 2013
The best “best of” categories are here. Quickie, quirky reviews. Twenty-five fast moving pages. Appropriately illustrated.
Best Large-Space Ad
Melissa Arendt, Bev Savage, Reno News & Review
Shirley’s Farmers’ Markets
The old green pickup full of produce makes me want to go. If I lived there I would be marking my calendar right now.
Bev Savage, Design Team, Reno News & Review
For the first time, I actually try hard in School (Big Brothers, Big Sisters of Northern Nevada)
Clear concept, clean layout, this ad tells me exactly what I need to do to participate in this program.
Vivian Liu, John Murphy, Reno News & Review
Bacon, Bourbon and Brews
The humorous artwork caught my eye and made me read the whole thing. Now my mouth is watering and I want to go. I really like the names of the food trucks. A far cry from the “roach coaches” of old.
Best Multi-Color Ad
Sean Rademacher, Las Vegas Weekly
Food World Championships Welcoming Party
The background and photos helped this ad stand out!
Sean Rademacher, Las Vegas Weekly
Music Issue
Liked the tape in the bottle — interesting perspective helped this ad draw my attention.
Carlos Herrera, Las Vegas Weekly
Sin City Smokes
The artist did a nice job of presenting a lot of information while still attracting our attention.
Best Special Section or Campaign (Advertising)
Kids and Staff Boys & Girls Club of Truckee Meadows, Design and Advertising teams, Reno News & Review
Kids News & Review
This is a special section that readers will look through repeatedly and enjoy every time. The children’s artwork and opinions are priceless.
Skyler Smith, John Murphy, Frank Haxton, Design and Advertising teams, Reno News & Review
Nightlife Guide 2014
A nice compendium of useful night-scene information. The centerfold bar directory is a must for any night owl. The back-page ad for the whorehouse (are they still called that?) is interesting. We in Montana don’t see many ads like that.
Priscilla Garcia, John Murphy, Design and Advertising teams, Reno News & Review
Arts in Bloom
The artist profiles made this special section especially useful and informative. Only thing missing were similar “profiles” on the wine selections at the wine tasting. Maybe next year?
Best-In House Promotion
Sean Rademacher, Las Vegas Weekly
World Food Championships Welcoming Party
Awesome unique promotion! Includes fun whimsy and the basics for the event. Clear, concise and very visually appealing.
Sean Rademacher, Las Vegas Weekly
Music Issue Showcase
Love the style of this promo. Very inviting and a unique way to sell “poolside” and some great tunes.
Sean Rademacher, The Sunday
The Sunday Advertising Campaign
Classy and clear. Definitely leaves a good mysterious element and the reader wanting more details.
Advertising General
Excellence
Las Vegas Weekly
More information in ads, that is what I am looking for when I want a magazine.
Design and Advertising teams, Reno News & Review
Nice job with target marketing. The ad pages flow well with the publication. Magazine does a nice job hitting hits target demographic. If I was visiting town, I would want to pick it up.
Michael Skenandore, Vegas Seven
Hard to judge. Don’t like the part paper and part gloss. A lot of good information in the ads. Good ads, and good flow through the magazine overall.
Best Web Site
View Neighborhood Newspapers
reviewjournal.com/view
Felicia Mello, Herbert Akinyele, Jason Scavone, Nicole Ely, Vegas Seven
vegasseven.com
Las Vegas Weekly
lasvegasweekly.com
Best Multimedia Story
Nicole Ely, Vegas Seven
The Reservists
Felicia Mello, Greg Miller, Nicole Ely, Vegas Seven
Intriguing People 2014
Staff, Las Vegas Weekly
The Golden Age of Vegas Dining
Best Online Writing
D. Brian Burghart,
Reno News & Review
Fatal Encounters
Geoff Carter, Vegas Seven
DTLV
Pj Perez, Vegas Seven
Urb Appeal
Magazines
General Excellence
Amanda Burden, Melissa Petersen, Jaci Goodman, Courtney Meredith, edible Reno-Tahoe
Innovative design and a unique look set this magazine apart from the competition. Interesting stories and exceptional photographs rounded out the package. The magazine clearly knows its edible niche, and its enterprising staff matched the strong content with attractive and relevant advertising.
Beth Schwartz, Ria Reodica, Luxury Las Vegas
Here’s a magazine that knows its upscale audience and gives it what it wants. Smart design and great studio photography are everywhere. The features are hip and more than a match for the slick, rich advertising. This is a magazine clearly aimed at lookers more than readers.
Staff, Reno Magazine
I saw a lot to like in this glossy. Its modern design, ambitious advertising and strong photography stood out. I liked its sections, especially the Taste, Look and Tell features. The cover stories, however, seemed uneven. I like their focus on local personalities, but the subjects and cover treatment could have been more compelling.
Best Feature Story
Jim Petersen, RANGE magazine
15 Miles From Ground Zero
Impassioned writing with vivid imagery and great flow. A gifted writer who paints pictures with words. Reader is transported to the historic eruption. Fantastic work!
Braden Gunem, RANGE magazine
Grasslands in the Clouds
A well written “day in the life” feature with a beautiful variety of storytelling imagery. Nice, complete package.
Carolyn Dufurrena, RANGE magazine
The Pear Tree, the Poplar, the Ditch
Beautiful writing. A truly gifted storyteller. The end of the story is some of the best writing I’ve read in a while. I just wanted it to keep going.
Best Nonstaff Story
Leo W. Banks, RANGE magazine
The Mountains Have Eyes
Never heard of Range Magazine before but they take wide swings at big, fascinating, important subjects with thorough investigation, put-me-there drama and unflinching portrayal of the facts, regardless of politics, personal beliefs or religion. This is the kind of reporting that makes us important and relevant in an age when everything else is becoming more like a sound bite.
Rachel Dahl, RANGE magazine
A Nation of Horse Hoarders
Dan Dagget, RANGE magazine
Kowboy Kumbaya
Best Explanatory Journalism
Taki Telonidis, Community Living
Healing the Warrior’s Heart
Well done all the way. Like my history teacher used to say about a girl’s skirt, it was long enough to cover the subject and short enough to keep it interesting. The best in a tough category.
Amanda Burden, Erin Meyering, edible Reno-Tahoe
Got raw milk?
A very close second, this is what explanatory journalism is. Could have been a bit more concise.
Anne Pershing, Synapse
The road to medical school
This was a bit long, but it was well written and the breaks make it easier to digest. Well done.
Best Investigative or
In-depth Story or Series
Dave Skinner, Chance Gowan, Teresa Platt, RANGE magazine
Public Lands
A lot of good information and reporting in these pieces, although it’s nearly drowned by the commentary mixed throughout. Let the facts speak.
S. Fred Singer, Ph.D., Michael S. Coffman, Ph.D., Tom DeWeese, RANGE magazine
Climate Change/Agenda 21
Best Local Column
Jaq Greenspon, David
Meaty. Well written, researched and informative. Some tugged at the heart without being sappy.
Andrea Egger, Community Living
A bright observation on life and growing up with a sound sense of maturity and responsibility. Fun read. Like visiting with a smart friend.
K-von, Nevada Silver & Blue
Looked forward to each entry. Fresh. Funny. Smart. Would have appreciated the humor in my alumni magazine.
Best Entertainment Writing
Kiko Miyasato, Las Vegas Magazine
Fountains of Bellagio, Jabbawockeez and Chippendales
Enjoyed reading these articles! Nice layout and design
Jorge Labrador, Las Vegas Magazine
JLegends, Hakkasan and Zumanity
Great photos to accompany stories, great descriptions of shows
Jolyn Young, Nevada Rancher
Good insight to subjects lives and their passions.
Best Critical Writing
Dave Skinner, RANGE magazine
Strong opinions, well-expressed.
Best Overall Design
Amanda Burden, Melissa Petersen, edible Reno-Tahoe
Consistent and clean. Pages never feel over designed. Great overall layout and design!
Matt Lauc, Reno Magazine
Wesley Gatbonton, Aaron Belandres, Dany Haniff, Erik Stein,
Las Vegas Magazine
Best Page One Design
Wesley Gatbonton, Aaron Belandres, Dany Haniff, Erik Stein,
Las Vegas Magazine
WOW! It is all about catching the reader’s interest and all of these covers do just that.
Steven Wilson, David
Another very good entry. This group of covers was very strong.
Matt Lauc, Reno Magazine
It was a toss-up between second and third. Very good set of entries.
Best Page Designer(s)
Wesley Gatbonton,
Las Vegas Magazine
Great use of typography and images, makes you want to read every word and absorb every picture
Ria Reodica, Luxury Las Vegas
Classy looking pages well designed and laid out
Dany Haniff, Las Vegas Magazine
Excellent use of typography and layout.
Best Feature Photo
Robin Paine, RANGE magazine
Me & My Agent
This photo caught my eye first among all the other entries and made me laugh. A good still photo conveys motion, life, feeling and spontaneity. This one has all that. I feel as if I am standing in the wind with them during that fleeting moment.
Amanda Burden, Candice Nyando,
edible Reno-Tahoe
The Final Cut
Very lively, lots of action. The woman is happily slinging corn and the chickens are happily scrambling for it. This entire piece was nicely done.
Cynthia Baldauf, RANGE magazine
Entertainer
An otherwise static landscape shot is brought to life with a backwards flip. Very nicely done.
Best Multiple Photo Essay
Varied Photographers,
Nevada Magazine
Great Nevada Picture Hunt
Adam Jahiel, RANGE magazine
Willow Creek Ranch
Kathy McCraine, RANGE magazine
A Breed Apart
Best Portrait
Christopher DeVargas,
Las Vegas Magazine
Absinthe
A fun classy throwback to the classic retro Playboy covers of years ago. Lighting is excellent. Very seductive, love the green silk fabric and must say very popular choice among our male judges.
Erika Haight, RANGE magazine
Portrait of the West: Montana Cowboy Dale R. Schaak
Even though the image supplied was a bit low resolution the judges still felt strong enough about the strength of the image to award it second place. Great use of natural lighting and a strong Wes Anderson like composition. Also love the unsaturated use of the monochromatic color tones.
Richard Stokes, Reno Magazine
LaDawn Tallbot
Beautiful and sophisticated image. Love the texture and back lighting. The whole portrait has a rich quietness to it that the judges really liked. Well done.
Best Illustrated Photo
Christopher DeVargas,
Wesley Gatbonton,
Las Vegas Magazine
Boys & Girls Club: World Imagination
Innovative, humorous and well executed.
Richard Stokes, Reno Magazine
Exploding Salad
Simply fascinating and delicious. I wonder how many takes this took.
Neil Lockhart, Nevada Magazine
Light Glyphs
Excellent use of painting with light and long exposure.
Best Large-Space Ad
Shelly Gerhard, Kenny Bowcutt,
Community Living
Local Contractors for the New Winnemucca Fire Station
The use of the crumpled paper as well as the depth made this ad a winner.
Robert Johns, Reno Magazine
GJ Rhodes complete redesign including logo
A nice ad
Robert Johns, Reno Magazine
Mocha, Moonlight and Murder
A nice concept
Best Multi-Color Ad
Robert Johns, Reno Magazine
Mocha, Moonlight and Murder
A very eye-catching and vivid advertisement. Can’t help but be drawn into the content.
Adele Hoppe, Nevada Magazine
Springs Preserve
Love the bright colors, vibrancy and simplicity of this ad. The photo sells the attraction and simple invitation makes you take in the entire message.
Ria Reodica, Jim K Decker,
Luxury Las Vegas
Haute Gifts
While it looks like a classic, fun product lineup, the ad is surprisingly for a fashion show which is both creative and unique making the reader want to attend, just to see the items in person.
Best-In House Promotion
Carrie Roussel, Sean Nebeker,
Nevada Magazine
Capture Your Nevada Moment
Good idea to add some value to past issues.
Adele Hoppe, Sean Nebeker,
Nevada Magazine
Explore Nevada With Us
Advertising General
Excellence
Las Vegas Magazine
Ads flow nicely into the style of the magazine. Everything up front that a) feels like part of the content, and b) hits the target on what the ads are supposed to be promoting for a tourist. Excellent flow with the ads throughout.
Adele Hoppe, Nevada Magazine
Nice job on making ads that are not full pages blend into a content style page. Nice flow throughout the magazine.
Amanda Burden, Jaci Goodman, edible Reno-Tahoe
Ads don’t flow with the magazine. They look like newspaper ads pasted in. For ads that are not full page ads, they should try to blend together into a page that fits the theme of the magazine.
Best Regular Department
Doug Keister, photographer, Paul Marcellini, photographer, Larry Angier, photographer, Alan Hart, photographer, C.J. Hadley, publisher, John Bardwell, designer, RANGE magazine
Empty Quarter
Very drawn to pictures on the pages. Extremely beautiful. Due to this it made me interested in reading the editorial content on each of the pages.
Annie Flanzraich, Johnathan L. Wright, Laura Longero, Matt Lauc, Richard Stokes, Reno Magazine
Taste
Love the layout and designs of each of the pages. Very beautiful and alluring.
Danny Axelrod, Kara Williams, Kate Silver, Ria Reodica, Beth Schwartz, Luxury Las Vegas
Escapades
The layout of the editorial and pictures was done magnificently. White space was well used and allowed this reader to be drawn in to each of the content, without having a hard time focusing. Very attractive pages.
Best Profile/Interview
Amanda Burden, Dave Preston,
edible Reno-Tahoe
The Art and Science of Roastology
Who knew reading an article about coffee could be crafted with such description?
Marsala Rypka, Luxury Las Vegas
UNLV’s First Female Athletic Director Scores Big
Very inspirational piece. Well written and very complete.
Amanda Burden, Sandra Macias,
edible Reno-Tahoe
A Taste of Ethiopia
Great imagery.
Best Special Project
Las Vegas Magazine
VEGAS2GO
Janet Geary, Nevada Magazine
150 Images from Historical Nevada
C.J. Hadley, publisher, John Bardwell, designer, RANGE magazine
“Brushstrokes & Balladeers: Painters and poets of the American West”
