2002 Better Newspaper Contest award winners

Story of the Year
“AFFORDABLE HOUSING STORIES”
Robert Stern, Tahoe Daily Tribune
”Stories were well-crafted. It was compelling from the first paragraph. The (series) was timely and dealt with a pressing issue.”

Editorial of the Year
“DON’T APOLOGIZE FOR FREE SPEECH”
Steve Falcone, Reno Gazette-Journal
“Well-balanced, easily followed editorial. The editorial’s argument is supported with valid and interesting points.”

Ad of the Year
“BEN’S FINE WINE AND SPIRITS”
Elaine Pawliszyn, Reno Gazette-Journal
“Good use of color and excellent reproduction. Ad has a nice flow; the circular motion moves the reader’s eye through the ad. Superb registration and excellent layout. The ad very appropriately captures the season.”

Photo of the Year
“BATTLING AIDS PACKAGE”
Amy Beth Bennett, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“Photographer did an outstanding job of dedicating time and developing trust with the family. There were no extraneous photos. Rarely do you have a sense of the photographer being there. The photographer put the reader in the room without the filter of the camera being in the way.”

Freedom of the Press
Daily Newspapers:
Las Vegas Review-Journal
“Did an excellent job of not only insisting on First Amendment freedom, but in educating the reader consistently throughout the year.  Constantly reminding and encouraging readers to understand this precious freedom!  Excellent job.”
Weekly Newspapers:
Las Vegas Weekly
“Story reported, with great information, the blatant nix on free speech/writing.”

Outstanding Journalist
Daily Newspapers: TIE
Frank X. Mullen Jr., Reno Gazette-Journal
“Mullen did important research and reporting on jet fuel and the Fallon leukemia clusters.”
Benjamin Grove, Las Vegas Sun
“Grove was at the fore of a deeply important national issue (Yucca Mountain).
Both reporters demonstrated diversity and depth.  This was a difficult category to judge.  All entrants were outstanding and made us proud of the profession.”
Weekly Newspapers:
Joe Schoenmann, Las Vegas Weekly
“By far the best!  A real journalist, not a feature writer.  Addresses serious issues – passionate – hard-hitting – fast moving, succinct writing.  Either a good grasp of history or a great researcher…”

CLASS 1 – LARGE DAILES

General Excellence
1. Las Vegas Review-Journal
“Good use of photos on inside pages.  Solid editorial page and layout.  Good local sports coverage.”
2. Las Vegas Sun
“Attractive section fronts.”

Journalist of Merit
1. Michael Squires, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“This was tough category to judge.  But after wading though some very well-written, serious pieces, it was a pleasure to whiz through Squires’ work.  He has equal flair for hard news and feature/column writing, from the touching and important piece on the deaths of six teens to the column on driving a bus in Vegas.”

Community Service
1.  “YUCCA MOUNTAIN”
Reno Gazette-Journal
“Award recognizes newspaper’s originality and resourcefulness in stationing staff at Yucca Mountain itself on the day of Energy Secretary’s announcement.  Very sharp and clear writing/exceptional info graphics, balanced reporting of dangers and possible economic benefits of Yucca project.”
2.  “HIGH SCHOOL JOURNALISM INITIATIVES”
Las Vegas Review-Journal
“Project represents multifaceted, long-term effort to make a difference in a particular realm.  Impressed at paper’s inviting all high school journalism students in county to lunch.  Project seems to be bearing fruit.”
3.  “YUCCA MOUNTAIN”
Las Vegas Sun
“The impressive thing was the extent of paper’s effort – number of stories, analysis and editorials.  Paper seems unmoved in its determination to fight Yucca Mountain.”
Honorable Mention
“C HILL FLAG”
Nevada Appeal
“Publicity for community-wide effort to place a flag on mountain.  Newspaper played key role in bringing the whole community together.”

Best Spot News Story
1. “TERROR STRIKE”
Staff, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“Evocative writing, thoughtful and thorough story selection and stellar examples of deadline reporting throughout. Readers were given a keepsake edition that effectively relayed and analyzed local and global ramifications.  An impressive job by dedicated professionals.”
2. “TERRORISTS ATTACK US”
Staff, Las Vegas Sun
“An admirable job of relaying breaking news produced under a crushing deadline.”
3. “COP KILLS GOLD HILL MAN”
Kurt Hildebrand, Nevada Appeal
“Remarkable detail and clarity for a Friday morning story about a seemingly senseless Thursday night shooting death by police of a local character.  Excellent deadline writing.”
Honorable Mention
“RUDIN VERDICT”
Peter O’Connell, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“Excellent narrative with subtle details that put readers not only in the courtroom, but seated alongside jurors as they made contentious deliberations.  Great storytelling.”

Best Feature Story
1. “RUSSIAN REFUGEES”
Stacy J. Willis, Las Vegas Sun
“From the first paragraph you recognize you will be treated to good writing.  She obviously followed them for awhile.  Good details and ending.”
2. “IN DEPTH: BATTLING AIDS”
Joelle Babula, Las Vegas Review-Journal
3. “BACKYARD BURIALS”
Michael Squires, Las Vegas Review-Journal
Honorable Mention
“NO TIME TO WASTE”
Benjamin Grove, Las Vegas Sun

Best Business Coverage
1. Las Vegas Review-Journal
“Strong local coverage.  Lots of graphics.  Wall Street Journal companion and stock market review a bonus for readers.”
2. Reno Gazette-Journal
“Good clarity in layout and design.  Week on Wall Street highlights good for quick review. Liked coverage of business features.”

Best Business Story
1. “ELEMENTS OF SUCCESS OF ‘GALLIUM’”
Bill O’Driscoll, Reno Gazette-Journal
“Told the readers something they didn’t know. Good clean description of what Gallium is and what it is used for.  Nice bullet points make story easy to understand.  Nice Job!”
2. “INTERNET GAMBLING EMERGING”
David Strow, Las Vegas Sun
“Covered various aspects of subject.  Very interesting.”
3. “ONLINE GAMBLING: ANONYMOUS IDENTITIES, DISEMBODIED VOICES”
Dave Berns, Las Vegas Review-Journal
Honorable Mention
“POWER OF OWNERSHIP”
Steve Kanigher, Las Vegas Sun

Best Investigative or In-Depth Story
1. “TERROR TRAIL”
J.M. Kalil, Glenn Puit and John L. Smith, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“Consistently and concisely, team dug up new details in a story of national interest, keeping readers on the vanguard of the FBI probe.  Analysis provided by columns reflected local interest.”
2. “STATE CANCER REGISTRY FAILURE”
Frank X. Mullen Jr., Reno Gazette-Journal
“Excellent investigation that shows readers how a taxpayer-funded system designed to protect health has failed with tragic results.”
3. “SUMMIT VIEW PRISON MISMANAGEMENT”
Kim Smith and Cy Ryan, Las Vegas Sun
“Detailed, unflinching condemnation of taxpayer-funded child neglect that demands action.  Well done.”

Best Local Column
1. Barry Smith, Nevada Appeal
“A gifted writer who uses wit and clarity to make important points.  Abundance of evidence; never dull.  He writes with a bite.”
2. John L. Smith, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“Writes about real people using powerful incidence and rich prose to get inside their lives.  Fresh contrast with his own life as well as the readers’”
3. Steve Sebelius, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“Writes about complexity with unusual simplicity.  Makes interesting and important points in a way that will remain in the memory.”
Honorable Mention:
Heidi Knapp Rinella, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“Writes about food with genuine style.”

Best Local Non-Staff Column
1. Jon Ralston, Las Vegas Sun
“Engaging, well-written and versatile.”
2. Emma Sepulveda, Reno Gazette-Journal
“Touching.  Good storytelling.”
3. Barbara Robinson, Las Vegas Review-Journal
Honorable Mention:
Ken Ward, Las Vegas Review-Journal

Best Local Sports Story
1. “TYSON K.O.’D”
Dean Juipe, Las Vegas Sun
“Interesting story…Good detail about why.”
2. “PREP COACHES ASSAIL BUDGET PROPOSAL”
Spencer Patterson, Las Vegas Sun
3. “COLTS’ MCGOWAN RECORDING OUTS”
Joe Santoro, Reno Gazette-Journal
Honorable Mention:
“I THINK ABOUT HIM EVERDAY”
Brian Hilderbrand, Las Vegas Sun

Best Local Sports Feature
1. “WHAT IF?”
Steve Addy, Las Vegas Sun
“Addy created some suspense and did a good job of conveying Mandley’s sense of luck and dread.”
2. “WIRED AND WISE ETC”
Kevin Iole, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“A thorough look at sports betting – lots of eye-opening info (especially for a non-Nevadan), but for a non-Nevadan some of it was hard to follow.  Would have been a better read if the writer had used some scenes.”
3. “SPOONHOUR: A PRETTY SIMPLE GUY”
Steve Carp, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“An adroit profile of a subject who wasn’t inherently very interesting (the writer used this blandness to his advantage).  Profile could have been better if the writer had hung out with Spoonhour and observed him in action.”

Best Local Sports Column
1. Joe Hawk, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“Personal, emotional and to the point.  Easy choice.”
2. Ron Kantowski, Las Vegas Sun
“Great columns have great endings and yours all end very well.”
3. Steve Addy, Las Vegas Sun
“Good coverage of UNLV basketball.”
Honorable Mention: Joe Santoro, Reno Gazette-Journal
“Imaginative and funny at times.”

Best Entertainment Writing
1. Forest Hartman, Reno Gazette-Journal
2. Mike Weatherford, Las Vegas Review-Journal
3. Doug Elfman, Las Vegas Review-Journal
Honorable Mention: Kirk Baird, Las Vegas Sun

Best Editorial
1. “DON’T APOLOGIZE FOR FREE SPEECH”
Steve Falcone, Reno Gazette-Journal
“Responsibility of elected officials with implicit faith in free speech is explored with television participation. Suggests strongly that council should remove disclaimer. Complex issue, correctly analyzed.”
2. “PRICE IS RIGHT”
Mike Campbell, Las Vegas Sun
“Challenge of government responsibility vs. marketing pressures and the need to regulate vs. need to make money were well researched. Good focus on correct roles of local government.”
3. “CASINO EXECS OUT OF LINE”
Mike Campbell, Las Vegas Sun
“Examines pressure brought to bear on city council to approve project that would harm residential areas.  Strong call for action to city council to hold line against coercion.”
Honorable Mention:
“CANCER IN PRISON”
Barry Smith, Nevada Appeal
“Looks at death penalty vs. expensive life in prison care.  Clear-cut case, not much controversy.  No call to action, however – editorials should suggest some solutions.”

Best Editorial Page
1. Las Vegas Sun
“The editorial page is the heart and soul of any newspaper.  This newspaper gave a lot of space to a variety of opinion. The newspaper generates good letters to the editor and stimulates good discussion about important issues.”
2. Las Vegas Review-Journal
“Good hard-hitting editorial on school funding.”

Best Overall Design
1. Las Vegas Review-Journal
“Front page captures attention.  Designed for easy reading.”
2. Las Vegas Sun
“Bold headlines and great quality photos.  Excellent layout overall.”

Best Page One Design
1. Las Vegas Review-Journal
“Excellent non-traditional overall look and design.  Really grabs readers’ attention.”
2. Reno Gazette-Journal
“Great ‘above the fold’ readership with exceptional photography grabbing the interest of the reader.”

Best Page Designer
1. Mark Antonuccio, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“Daring and fun use of photos and graphics, bold headlines and a playful yet orderly presentation make these reader-friendly pages stand apart.  Designer draws readers in with catchy elements above the fold and untraditional treatment to themes.  Excellent balance of positive/negative space.”
2. Ched Whitney, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“Designer displays great versatility at drawing readers in whether for a light feature story or somber tragedy.  Vibrant colors and whimsical layouts make fun attention-grabbers, while more traditional treatments to type, photos and layout signal a serious read that draws the eye in with good use of space.”
3. Adam Bucci, Las Vegas Sun
“Designer has an obvious talent for solid layouts – the balance of the pages is nearly impeccable.  Especially adept at layout of stories with multiple photos.  Draws readers in with solid grasp of positive and negative space.  The columns of type that mirrored the Twin Towers for the post Sept. 11 TV season story was outstanding.”
Honorable Mention
Rosa Rodriguez, Reno Gazette-Journal
“If the point of good page layout is to draw readers in, this designer does it well.  Clever headlines (bold and colorful as well) match the cover subjects well and grab readers’ attention – as does the skillful photo treatments.  The layouts are simple yet done with careful attention to detail.”

Best Special Section – News
1. “NEWSLINE – ATTACK ON AMERICA”
Las Vegas Review-Journal
“Well done in bringing a local feel from a national and even worldwide tragedy to home.  Enjoyed the full variety of coverage.”
2. “EDUCATIONAL GREATNESS”
Reno Gazette-Journal
“Great job in getting into the personal lives of educators and students alike and presenting it on a level for everyone to enjoy.”
3. “YOUNG GUNS OF THE PGA TOUR”
Reno Gazette-Journal
“Good overall coverage and focus.  Enjoyed the run down of the ‘18 players to watch’ feature.”

Best Information Graphics
1. “A CLOSER LOOK AT YUCCA MOUNTAIN”
Ron Oden, Jay Kurowski and Stephen Reich, Reno Gazette-Journal
“Tells a vastly complex story in an understandable and visually appealing manner.  The skillfully created, strategically placed elements do an excellent job of guiding the reader through what otherwise would be an overwhelming amount of information.  Beautiful job.”
2. “A DAY OF TERROR”
Pam Killinsworth, Las Vegas Sun,
“The artist’s skills in presenting a story visually are especially evident given the date of publication.  Under what must have been an enormous crunch, the artist presents surprisingly detailed elements in an attention-grabbing, easy-to-follow fashion.”
3. “DEATH BY LETHAL INJECTION”
Ron Oden, Reno Gazette-Journal
“The focal point immediately draws readers’ attention.  The artist is very attentive in making the information understandable, especially in regard to how the chamber is set up.  It avoids sensationalizing the subject matter and presents facts in an interesting manner.”
Honorable Mention:
“MINNING GALLIUM IN NEVADA”
Ron Oden, Reno Gazette-Journal
“Detailed graphics and skillful use of color draw readers to a seemingly otherwise dry subject.  The art and leading arrows alone tell the story.  Because of this, the piece could have used far less text, especially given the space constraints.”

Best Illustration
1. “PEACE ON EARTH”
Ron Oden, Reno Gazette-Journal
“Speaks volumes as a stand alone.”
2. “MADONNA”
David Stroud, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“Eclectic – Madonna’s never looked better!”
3. “TIME TRAVEL”
Mark Antonuccio, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“Complete Information.”

Best Spot News Photo Coverage
1. “BACKFIRE”
Scott Sady, Reno Gazette-Journal
“Good light, moment and composition.  Well done.  Too bad it ran so small.”
2. “GROUNDED BY 9-11”
Sam Morris, Las Vegas Sun
“Subtle, but so well done.  From the hands or heads to the expression to the holding hands, this photo tells a story.  Images like this are harder than they look.”
3. “2 MORE DEAD”
Aaron Mayes, Las Vegas Sun
“Interesting combination of bystanders gawking and grief from a relative.  Simple and strong.”
Honorable Mention
“HIGHWAY 50 FATAL”
Rick Gunn, Nevada Appeal
“Almost got this one.  Would have worked better with a 4-pica crop from the right.”

Best General News Photo
1. “DAY OF SORROW”
Andy Barron, Reno Gazette-Journal
“Wow!  There is such an impact with this child’s eyes.  Well cropped – good page placement.”
2. “SAYING GOODBYE”
Clint Karlsen, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“This photo should have been the larger of the 2 on the page.  So much emotion.  Well done.”
3. “SOLDIERS IN SHADOW”
Ethan Miller, Las Vegas Sun
“This photo really makes you look twice.  Would have more impact if a bit larger.”
Honorable Mention:
“BLACKOUTS”
John Gurzinski, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“A really beautiful shot!”

Best Feature Photo
1. “WILD HORSES”
John Gurzinski, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“Good light, good moment.  A simple, clean, appealing photo.”
2. “CAR FESTIVAL”
David Parker, Reno Gazette-Journal
“Good eye to see the shadows and find the right moment with the proper mixture of heads turned.  Too bad the background is cluttered.  But good eye.”
3. “MAN ON ME”
Rick Gunn, Nevada Appeal
“Good job by the photographer to see and capture this tender moment.”
Honorable Mention:
“FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL”
Andy Barron, Reno Gazette-Journal

Best Multiple Feature Photos
1. “BATTLING AIDS PACKAGE”
Amy Beth Bennett, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“Everyone has seen dozens of AIDS essays over the past 18 years.  But the photographer brought life to this story.  Strong moments.  No needless images. This story was worked.  Good job.”
2. “AUTISM”
Candice Towell, Reno Gazette-Journal
“Good eye for moments.  There are many subtle storytelling aspects to several of the images.  The more you look at these, the more you learn.”
3. “BICYCLING AFRICA”
Rick Gunn, Nevada Appeal
“Top and bottom images set a mood. Good package.”
Honorable Mention
“FRANCISCAN FRIAR”
Clint Karlsen, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“Some strong images, but too many so-so images, too.  This would have been stronger with fewer images.”

Best Portrait
1. “HELEN CANNON”
Aaron Mayes, Las Vegas Sun
“Good idea executed well.”
2. “JORDAN FULLER”
Christine Wetzel, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“Composed well.  The soft light compliments the subject.”
3. “HOMELESS COUPLE”
Clint Karlsen, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“At first glance, a bit too loose on left.  But the tarps and tents and shopping cart all add layers to the image.”
Honorable Mention:
“JAIME DE ALTONAGA”
Jeff Scheid, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“Simple, clean, well lit, good composition.”
“PSYCHIC”
Sam Morris, Las Vegas Sun
“Simple and clean.  Could have been cropped tighter on top.”

Best Illustrated Photo
1.  “POTTING TRAINING”
Tim Dunn, Reno Gazette-Journal
“Funny moment.  Simple, tells story, humorous.”
2. “CLEARING THE AIR”
R. Marsh Starks, Las Vegas Sun
“Good execution, interesting mix of elements and techniques.”

Best Sports Photo
1. “BOXING”
Amy Beth Bennett, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“Good moment. Played well”
2. “HOOPS TANGLE”
Ethan Miller, Las Vegas Sun
“We’ve seen far too many fighting-for-the-ball images, especially in women’s hoops, but this stood out.  The crossed arms and the facial expression make it work.”
3. “UNLV HOOPS JUBILATION”
Aaron Mayes, Las Vegas Sun
“Combination of expression, from players to ref, make for a good moment.  A little distracting and a little loose, but the ref’s face steals it.”
Honorable Mention
“COWBOY DOWN”
David Parker, Reno Gazette-Journal
“Good moment, hooves and dirt flying. Nice tight crop.”

CLASS II

General Excellence
Tahoe Daily Tribune
“Lots of good local news.  Lots of color makes it interesting.  Editorial page has local editorial material.  Attractive design, good variety of advertising with color.”
Elko Daily Free Press
“Nice front page.  Good local copy.”
Sparks Tribune

Community Service
1.  “CANCER CLUSTER COVERAGE”
Lahontan Valley News
“What can be said!  Your passionate dedication to community and the truth behind its injustices is inspiring.  The balance between hard news and features was excellent.”
“ELECTION COVERAGE”
Tahoe Daily Tribune
“You stick solely to issues relevant to the people in your community.”
“PATRIOTISM”
Lahontan Valley News
“You’ve covered a painful and complex issue without resorting to trite and overused presentation and treatment of this subject.  The unique voice of your community came through in these articles – way to go!”

Best Spot News Story
“TRAIN CRASH NEAR WENDOVER”
Judy Andréson, Elko Daily Free Press
“A quick, complete and accurate account of an event that, because it occurred two days after 9/11, began with widely conflicting reports.  The reporter was able to nail down all the fact angles and get it in that day’s newspaper – top-notch work.”
“LIFE SENTENCE WITHOUT PAROLE; MURDER OF MOTHER AND HER BABY A HORRIFIC CRIME”
Marlene Garcia, Lahontan Valley News
“The reporter’s maturity shows in her balanced reporting of a shocking crime without sensationalizing.  She lets voices of the characters involved tell the dark tale, giving readers a sad, but honest reflection.”
“BLACK ROCK DEDICATION”
Jeffry Mullins, Elko Daily Free Press
“An excellent overview of an important and controversial chapter in Nevada’s historic public lands debate, framed around the circus-like atmosphere of dedicating an empty desert landscape.”
Honorable Mention:
“PROTESTORS TURN OUT TO BLAST BLM”
Steve F. Lyon, Lahontan Valley News
“Effective reporting of a complex and emotional land-use battle without taking sides, giving readers balanced viewpoints and critical details.”

Best Feature Story
“FAMILIES DRAW STRENGTH FROM ONE ANOTHER”
Heather Singer, Lahontan Valley News
“A lot of research, interviews, background involved in this story.  Several sources. All excellently done.  Cohesive and well-written.”
“THERE’S NO CURE”
Susan Wood, Tahoe Daily Tribune
“Human interest and emotion well displayed in story.  You let the featured source tell his story with good quotes.  Well organized and put together.”
3. “MOTHER AND SON REUNITE AFTER 29 YEARS”
Megan Kanne, Lahontan Valley News
“Well organized, good sources and quoted material.  Timeline of events was well done and emotion added.”
Honorable Mention
“DR. TODD SAYS STATE INVESTIGATION HAS BECOME HIS LIFE”
Heather Singer, Lahontan Valley News
“Interesting aspects about the life experiences of the doctor.  A lot of work went into getting this story and writing it.”

Best Business Coverage
1.   Tahoe Daily Tribune
“The local business coverage in this paper was a huge part of this newspaper.”
Lahontan Valley News
“I liked the local business opinion columns in this paper. More space needed to go to local business – good national coverage – but more local catches readers.”

Best Business Story
“INTUIT CLOSES IN FALLON; IMPACTS 55 EMPLOYEES”
Marlene Garcia, Lahontan Valley News
“Ms. Garcia’s coverage gave a strong voice to the individuals affected.”
“HAZEN STORE NAMED HISTORIC SITE”
Marlene Garcia, Lahontan Valley News
“Again, Ms. Garcia explains the people and the setting of the action to bring the story to life.”
“SECRET SERVICE SAVES COMPANY FROM SCAMS”
Marlene Garcia, Lahontan Valley News
“Ms. Garcia’s style shines yet again as she threads her suspenseful story.”
Honorable Mention:
“FEED STORE HAS A FLAIR FOR ANTIQUES”
J. Carmen Kofoed, The Humboldt Sun

Best Investigative or In-Depth Story
“AFFORDABLE HOUSING SERIES”
Robert Stern, Tahoe Daily Tribune
“Holding up a mirror to a beauty queen to point out warts is no easy task, but this balanced, well-written and important enterprise package demonstrates newspaper’s duties to ‘comfort the afflicted and afflict the comforted.’”
“LIVING AND DYING WITH THE ENDANGERED SPECIES ACT”
Jeffry Mullins, Elko Daily Free Press
“An impressive and comprehensive probe into a complex law that directly impacts readers.”
“CHILD LEUKEMIA CLUSTER, ONE YEAR LATER”
Heather Singer, Lahontan Valley News
“Recognized for effort to keep a human face on an evolving story of conflicting account of blame.  Compassionate and professional.”

Best Local Column
1.  J. Carmen Kofoed, The Humboldt Sun
“Each column is very thought-provoking.  Topic is timely and important.  Easy to read, concise and well-written.”
Jeffry Mullins, Elko Daily Free Press
“Extensively researched; timely issues; informative; presented in a straight-forward manner.”
Dee Holzel, The Humboldt Sun
“Entertaining and yet topics are informative although in a more general day-to-day commentary rather than specific current events; vivid descriptions.”

Best Local Sports Story
“NIIA CONSIDERS POLICY CHANGE FOR TRANSFERS”
Dan Eckles, Sparks Tribune
“Well-written and informative.  Covered both sides of issue objectively.”
“GREEN WAVES HOMECOMING WIN BREAKS LOSING STREAK”
Steve Ranson, Lahontan Valley News
“Does an excellent job of painting the picture of fans celebrating.”
“CENTENNIAL OUTLASTS DOUGLAS”
Dan Eckles, Sparks Tribune
“Great coverage of a great game.”
Honorable Mention
“OVERHEATED”
David Gouger, The Humboldt Sun
“Good use of a national story with a local angle.”

Best Local Sports Feature
“ALTHOUGH VIKINGS HAVE SHIPPED OUT, ’92 TITLE REMAINS AT TOP THEIR MEMORIES”
Steve Yingling, Tahoe Daily Tribune
“This story was very well researched and provided the up-to-date information desired by local readers.  Yingling’s writing was organized and very readable.”
“CARRYING THE LOAD”
Sam Brown, Elko Daily Free Press
“I liked the approach Brown took to this story.  I wanted to keep reading.  The Oct. 18 story by Brown regarding Joel William’s injury was an important conclusion for this team story.”
“BAKER’S GOLD MEDAL GOES TO BOOTH”
Darin Olde, Tahoe Daily Tribune
“I like Olde’s style of writing.  I’m sure this story grabbed the hearts of readers in Tahoe.”

Best Local Sports Column
Steve Ranson, Lahontan Valley News
“Captures attention quickly – sound knowledge of many interesting topics.”
Steve Yingling, Tahoe Daily Tribune
“Takes local stories and converts to interesting topics capturing the readers eye.”
David Gouger, The Humboldt Sun
“Digs into topic providing new reader insights.”
Honorable Mention:
Dan Eckles, Sparks Tribune

Best Editorial
“HENNICK BEST CHOICE IN RACE FOR SHERIFF”
Michael Green, Tahoe Daily Tribune
“Strong lead.  Well written.  Clearly sorts through issues in the race.  The Tribune is to be commended for having the courage to endorse candidates in local races.”
“MESS AT CHARTER SCHOOL NEEDS TO BE CLEANED UP”
Marlene Garcia, Lahontan Valley News
“Puts myriad facts on the table to make a clear case that a school administrator lacks management skills and needs to be dismissed.  Editorial had completed its point by the end of the paragraph ending’…belongs to all of us.’ Last couple of points were overkill.”
“UNJUST DESSERTS”
J.D. Wilson, Sparks Tribune
“Briskly written.  Public officials unjustly enriching themselves are something we all need to watch out for.  Certainly, administrative salaries reflect the size of the entity being administered.  But I think the notion that compensation can be figured on a per- capita basis is suspect.”
Honorable Mention: (TIE)
“IT’S CALLED ACCOUNTABILITY, SHERIFF”
Michael Green, Tahoe Daily Tribune
“Incident called for explication.  Bullets helped lay out the facts.”
“VICTORY FOR THE FIRST AMENDMENT”
Michael Green, Tahoe Daily Tribune
“Educates the public about the First Amendment.  Could have been tighter.”

Best Editorial Page
Sparks Tribune
“Most editorial sections run a full two pages, including an editorial and several local columns.  That’s an achievement for a small paper.  Editorials well written.  Several columns are quite original in the issues they raise.  Could use more letters to the editor.”
Tahoe Daily Tribune
“Good variety, ranging from family issues to local sheriff’s behavior.  Pages are attractive.  Letters reflect strong community participation.  Could use more editorials reflecting newspaper’s stance along with the local columns.”

Best Page One Design
Sparks Tribune
“Well designed.  Pleasing to look at and eye-catching.”
Elko Daily Free Press
“Very eye catching.  More kerning in your headlines would be helpful.”
Tahoe Daily Tribune
“Well balanced and easily read.”

Best Page Designer
Sam Brown, Elko Daily Tribune
“Good balance.  Nice mix of vertical and horizontal stories.  Good photo placement.”
Lee Denmark, The Humboldt Sun
“Drop quotes are effective to break up page.  Needs more variance in placement of feature package (bottom of page maybe?).”

Best Special Section – News
“VISITORS GUIDE”
The Humboldt Sun
“Excellent layout.  Design between ads and editorial was well planned.  Useful and pertinent information.”
“REACHING FOR NEW HEIGHTS”
Elko Daily Free Press
“Great specific local information.  Center-section schedule brings the whole guide together.  Great cover photo.”
“SKI TAHOE”
Tahoe Daily Tribune
“Great Olympic coverage.  News content is excellent and centered toward the target audience.”

Best Spot News Photo Coverage
“WASHOE COUNTY SWAT TEAM PREPARES TO ENTER”
Andrew Heilman, Sparks Tribune
“News value, technical quality and originality all excellent on this group shot.  Very appealing.”
“HUNDREDS OF ELKO RESIDENTS LIGHT CANDLES”
Ross Andréson, Elko Daily Free Press
“News value and originality excellent on this group photo.”
“HIGHWAY BLOCKED OFF AS TRUCK BURNS”
Heather Singer, Lahontan Valley News
“Technical quality very good.  Flash off of truck and overall composition excellent.”
Honorable Mention:
“FORMER MUSEUM BUILDING ROOF BURNED”
Dee Holzel, The Humboldt Sun
“This group (of photos) tells a story well; very original.  Great use of layout.”

Best General News Photo
“ONE BRIGADE TO ANOTHER”
Ross Andréson, Elko Daily Free Press
“Great composition.  Cropping works well.”
“DAY OF REMEMBRANCE”
Heather Singer, Lahontan Valley News
“Great snapshot of unity.  A bit cluttered in background.”
“SAVE OUR STOCK”
Heather Singer, Lahontan Valley News
“Cropping works well.  Shows feelings.”

Best Feature Photo
“TOUGH ASSIGNMENT”
Dan Thrift, Tahoe Daily Tribune
“Photo captures the action element.  Very creative and imaginative.  Timing was exceptional in order to catch the perfect expression.”
“S.O.S. SAVE OUR STOCK”
Heather Singer, Lahontan Valley News
“Photo immediately tells the story. The expression captures the feeling of the photo and inspires emotion in the reader.”
“A REAL MOUTHFUL”
Heather Singer, Lahontan Valley News
“The photo paints a specific picture by combining all photo elements.  Very creative.”
Honorable Mention
“THUNDERSTORM AND LIGHTNING”
Jeffry Mullins, Elko Daily Free Press
“Timing unbelievable.  Reader can feel how close the lightning storm was to home.  Photo captures a fearful emotion, while combining it with a serene background.”

Best Multiple Feature Photos
“B-29 PHOTO SERIES”
Ross Andréson, Elko Daily Free Press
“Excellent angles, contrast of foreground and background, and choice of overall photos to relay story/stories of such a historical feature.”
“YOUTH SAILING TO SUCCESS”
Michael Green, Tahoe Daily Tribune
“Good color contrast and cropping.  A sense of good emotion was conveyed, but could have had more action photos.”
“BUILT FOR SPEED”
Emily Teague, Elko Daily Free Press
“Arrangement and good expression create overall story of event.”
Honorable Mention:
“DO IT YOURSELF”
Jim Grant, Tahoe Daily Tribune

Best Portrait
“SPANNING THE GLOBES”
Dan Thrift, Tahoe Daily Tribune
“Photo gives the reader a direct understanding of the caption.  Photographer further compliments by positioning exterior elements around the central focal point.”
“A DAY OF REMEMBRANCE”
Heather Singer, Lahontan Valley News
“Photographer captures the emotion while pulling at the heart-strings by the positioning of the photo.  The photo ties exceptionally well with the caption.”
“A REAL MOUTHFUL”
Heather Singer, Lahontan Valley News
“Photo grasps action of event while detailing the challenges and emotion.”
Honorable Mention:
“MAN’S BEST FRIEND”
Ross Andréson, Elko Daily Free Press
“Photo quality is remarkable for a moving shot.  Photo is further emphasized by capturing the facial expression of the puppy.”

Best Sports Photo
“LITTLE LEAGUE: RED SOX WIN CITY CHAMPIONSHIP”
Andrew Heilman, Sparks Tribune
“Great timing and angle.  Left decision of being safe or out up to reader.”
“BOXING: BOJORQUEZ KO’S SANCHEZ”
Dan Thrift, Tahoe Daily Tribune
“Powerful snap of action.”
“BASKETBALL: PORTER REBOUNDS”
Andrew Heilman, Sparks Tribune
“Unique angle makes for a good photo.”
Honorable Mention
“VIKINGS VOLLEYBALL TEAM CELEBRATES COMEBACK”
Jim Grant, Tahoe Daily Tribune
“Good photo packed with emotion.”

CLASS III

General Excellence
North Lake Tahoe Bonanza
“Excellent layout overall and captivating front pages.  Lots of editorial comments on opinion page, but missed in-house comments.  Lacked depth in editorializing.  Great photos.  Liked use of color.”
The Record-Courier
“Good use of photos.  Great sports page.  Lacking editorial strength.”
Honorable Mention
Las Vegas Business Press
“This is an excellent, compelling publication.  Appreciated strong editorial and guest commentary.  Reporting tackles a diversity of issues.  Insightful and responsible.”

Journalist of Merit
Charles Levinson, Tahoe World
“Shows insight. Good research. More importantly – all stories are well written.”

Community Service
“ALL-WEATHER TRACK AT DOUGLAS HIGH SCHOOL”
The Record-Courier
“A shining example of what a community newspaper can do to serve its community.  Kudos to Chuck Smock for taking on such a project.  Service like this makes all newspapers look good.”

Best Spot News Story
“COMMUNITY MOURNS GARDNERVILLE MOM”
Christy Chalmers, The Record-Courier
“Good research, shows a pattern of behavior for Ball.  Solid lead.”
“LOCAL PHYSICISTS SUPPORT REPOSITORY”
Sharon Gerrie, Henderson Home News
“Interesting lead.  Good quotes.  Covered both sides of debate well.”
“RESIDENTS: NO NEVADA POWER RATE HIKES”
Sharon Gerrie, Henderson Home News
“’You greedy idiots!’  Great quote!  Engaging story, especially for a public hearing type of story.  You conveyed the feeling of the people well.”
Honorable Mention:
“TWO MEN SURVIVE AMBUSH”
Rich Thurlow, Pahrump Valley Times
“Scary story… told well.  A little redundant at times when talking about the victims not shooting.  Overall a good piece.”

Best Feature Story
“LIGHT DRAWINGS”
Melissa Vinitsky, Tahoe World
“You’ve captured the personality and passion of this unique artist perfectly!  Great use of detail too!”
“NOT YOUR AVERAGE HARD HATS”
Charles Levinson, Tahoe World
“Your strongest skill is hitting the story from different angles without losing the thread.”
“SABOL BREAKS NEW GROUND FOR FEMALE ATHLETES”
Melissa Vinitsky, Tahoe World
“You keep the story moving at a quick pace without letting it get too thin.”
Honorable Mention
“FLICK OF THE WRIST”
Katherine Morris, Sierra Sun
“Great balance between a light-hearted and fun subject and the very serious compassion that motivated the creation of the Hall of Fame.  Way to go!”

Best Business Coverage
TIE
In Business Las Vegas
“Excellent local coverage, but also national coverage that ties nicely with local news.”
Las Vegas Business Press
“Great coverage of local business–information that the target audience is looking for.”
The Record-Courier
“Great variety of local businesses covered.  Great columnists, helps keep the mundane interesting.”
North Lake Tahoe Bonanza
“Small sections, but concise.  Great sense of what is important…”

Best Business Story
“VEGAS REBOUNDING AS JAPANESE RETURN”
Richard Velotta, In Business Las Vegas
“Opening paragraph grabs the reader and creates interest; nice interspersing of facts/numbers combined with almost a human-interest slant; strong research and quotes from several sources.”
“AS CALIFORNIA STRUGGLES WITH BLACKOUTS, NEVADA BUSINESSES PLAN FOR UNKNOWN”
David Hare, Las Vegas Business Press
“Informative and well-written; maintains the reader’s interest; nice description with strong visualization.”
“GE COMPLETES BENTLY NEVADA PURCHASE”
Jeff Munson, The Record-Courier
“Strong incorporation of current activities, past history and future projections; interesting and well-organized quotes.”
Honorable Mention
“NEVADA LOAN FAILURES SOARING”
Valerie Miller, Las Vegas Business Press
“Obvious extensive research; well-written and well-organized.”

Best Investigative or In-Depth Story
TIE
“NURSING HOME INVESTIGATION”
Sharon Gerrie, Henderson Home News
“Excellent investigative techniques – paper proves you don’t need lots of color and glitter to do extraordinary work.”
“WASTE MATTERS”
William Hoffman, In Business Las Vegas
“Superb presentation with strong writing.”
“SHARKEY’S CASINO COVERAGE”
Staff, The Record-Courier
“Portrays well the emotional reactions to change in a beloved destination.  Strong leads with tight segues.”
TIE
“MARTIS FIRE”
Rick Adair, North Lake Tahoe Bonanza
“WHERE THE RUBBER MEETS THE ROAD”
Jeff Munson, The Record-Courier
“Both of these investigative pieces show long, hard work.  Martis fire story captures anxiety.  Traffic piece doesn’t forget probable result of inaction.”
Honorable Mention:
TIE
“BUDGET WOES FOR WASHOE SCHOOLS”
Merry Thomas, North Lake Tahoe Bonanza
“TEACHER SALARIES”
Sharon Gerrie, Henderson Home News
“Both stories bring out important aspects of adequate budgeting for schools.  Teacher salaries story clarifies issues.  Both avoid extensive emotionalism.”

Best Local Column
Christy Chalmers, The Record-Courier
“Nice insight.  Diverse topics.  Easily read.”
John Santana, Boulder City News
“Good local appeal.  In-depth writing.”
Honorable Mention
Jeff Munson, The Record-Courier
“Good hometown feel.”

Best Local Non-Staff Column
McAvoy Layne, North Lake Tahoe Bonanza
Jon Ralston, In Business Las Vegas

Best Local Sports Story
“NORTH TAHOE GIRLS ON WAY TO SUCCESS”
Nathan Laver, Tahoe World
“Captures interest quick.  Flows well.”
“DHS GIRLS FALL IN DOUBL OT”
Chuck Smock, The Record-Courier
“Captures interest right away.”
“THE LAKER GOAL THAT WASN’T”
Jessica Perry, North Lake Tahoe Bonanza
Honorable Mention
“LAKERS WREAK HAVOC”
Nathan Laver, Tahoe World

Best Local Sports Feature
“SHATTERED DREAMS”
Ray Brewer, Henderson Home News
“It’s hard to overlook a mistake in the lead paragraph, but this is a great piece of writing.”
“9-YEAR OLD SCORES HOLE IN ONE”
Chuck Smock, The Record-Courier
“Good narrative about what Thomas did to celebrate.”
“DOG DAYS”
Nathan Laver, Tahoe World
“Good angle.  Highlighting Lana gave the story an interesting point of view.”
Honorable Mention
“THE LAST HURRAH FOR ARTIS”
Jessica Perry, North Lake Tahoe Bonanza
“Good send off for a successful coach.”

Best Local Sports Column
Ray Brewer, Henderson Home News
Roberta Perea, Mason Valley News
Nathan Laver, Tahoe World

Best Entertainment Writing
1. Karel Delbecq, The Record-Courier
“A good combination of stories on diverse entertainment themes.  But the dates of writing are limited.  Too much deals with September 11.”
2. Kevin Fiddler and Rob Weidenfeld, Henderson Home News

Best Editorial
“CHATEAU BOND NOT AN EASY ISSUE FOR VOTERS”
Kirk Caraway, North Lake Tahoe Bonanza
“Well researched (though a bit long) editorial. The best piece submitted with substantive background and call to action.”
“INTERSECTION NEAR SKATE PARK NEEDS TRAFFIC SIGN”
Kirk Caraway, North Lake Tahoe Bonanza
“Timely, well-written.”
“KINGS BEACH WOULD BENEFIT FROM ROUNDABOUTS”
Charles Levinson, Tahoe World
Honorable Mention
“END OF THE ROAD”
Christy Chalmers, The Record-Courier

Best Editorial Page
North Lake Tahoe Bonanza
“Easy layout to read.  Nice to have variety so it’s not always the same each week.”
Las Vegas Business Press
“Nice use of cartoons.  Same layout gives readers something to depend on.”
The Record-Courier
“Page is very busy.  Didn’t like letters being continued to another page.”

Best Overall Design
North Lake Tahoe Bonanza
“Great variety.  Lots of elements to attract readers…Good photo quality.  Good sectioning of news content.  Impressive feature spreads.  In a couple of cases, the news section organization was confusing.  You have ‘Around the Basin,’ several intervening pages, and ‘Around the Basin’ again.”
The Record-Courier
“Airy look.  Nice selection of color for type in teases, accent boxes, etc.  Great design on calendar.  Feature and editorial pages retain airy, informal feel of page one.”
Mason Valley News
“More traditional design than the other two contestants, but good page one and inside page display of a variety of news.  I get the feeling the Mason Valley News accomplishes a lot with the resources available to it.”

Best Page One Design
North Lake Tahoe Bonanza
“This has it all!  Good layout ‘flows’ well.  Readers should feel more informed just glancing at the front page.  Good use of color and graphics on left hand side of page.”
TIE
The Record-Courier
“Good variety.  Lots of ‘people’ photos–a good thing.  Don’t go overboard with hairline rules.”
Tahoe World
“Lots of nice people photos.  Again, watch the (over) use of hairline rules.  Would be nice to see some more design elements – weather, charts, graphs, etc.”
Las Vegas Business Press
“Nice consistency teaser bar on left is almost a must for small tab format – good work.”

Best Page Designers
Travis Ambrose, North Lake Tahoe Bonanza
“Pictures grabbed your attention and easily led into the story.  Soft picture fading on Nepal story was well done – well thought out.  Nice to see something different.”
Keith Sheffield, Tahoe World
“Nice large pictures. Liked the way some pictures were integrated in text of story.  Design tended to be one-dimensional and similar.”

Best Special Section – News
“CARSON VALLEY ALMANAC”
The Record-Courier
“Diverse mix of stories.  Writing provides an interesting inside look at the community while offering useful information.  Nice use of photos, color.  Layout is clean, attractive, informal.”
“IN BUSINESS SPECIAL REPORT”
In Business Las Vegas
“Articles cover an array of business interests; informative and well-written.  Layout is clean and simple – works well with overall feel of section.  Photos somewhat similar, small.”
“DISCOVERIES”
North Lake Tahoe Bonanza
“Great cover design.  Prominent use of photos, clean and consistent layout.  Good mix of historical articles–could be more personalized.”
Honorable Mention
“DIVERSITY”
Las Vegas Business Press
“A unique and interesting look at the business world of Las Vegas.  Layout somewhat gray – cover story could have benefited from more photos.”

Best Spot News Photo Coverage
“FIRE ON THE MOUNTAIN”
Belinda Grant, The Record-Courier
“Incredible photo!  News value, technical quality and originality all some of the best I’ve seen.”
“COMING THROUGH”
Belinda Grant, The Record-Courier
“The action of the photo is extremely interesting.  News value and originality both very good.”
“GOING POSTAL!”
Doug McMurdo, Pahrump Valley Times
“Technical merit and composition very interesting.”
Honorable Mention
“AFTERMATH”
Belinda Grant, The Record-Courier
“Great composition and originality.”

Best General News Photo
“A BEAR IN THERE”
Belinda Grant, The Record-Courier
“Good composition.  Perspective really works!”
“TRAFFIC”
Steve Marcus, In Business Las Vegas
“Cropping and perspective works well. Photo could have been a bit larger.”
Honorable Mention
“A VILLAGE REMEMBERS”
Michael Okimoto, North Lake Tahoe Bonanza
“Photo a bit too fuzzy.  Cropping well done.”

Best Feature Photo
“9/11 TRIBUTE”
Doug Slater, Tahoe World
“Feature photos compel emotion, and this quiet photo of two boys by candlelight is everything a feature photo should be – composition, technical merit, and of course, human interest.”
“HAVING FUN WITH SCIENCE”
Belinda Grant, The Record-Courier
“Funny interesting lead photo. Great facial expressions; being at the right place at the right time.”
“4-H”
Belinda Grant, The Record-Courier
“An emotional moment captured – tells the story all by itself.”
Honorable Mention
“FOREST OF FIRE”
Keith Sheffield, Tahoe World
“Lead photo captures beauty of leaves and sunrise.  Very nice photography.

Best Multiple Feature Photos
“FAIR DAYS”
Belinda Grant, The Record-Courier
“Great spread – gives feeling of space – lots of variety in pictures.”
“BASKETBALL”
Belinda Grant, The Record-Courier
“IMPACT!  Staggering angles.  Total emotion!”
“THE NATURE OF ART”
Rob Weindenfeld, Henderson Home News
“Good angles – composition.”
Honorable Mention
“CARSON VALLEY DAYS”
Shannon Hall, The Record-Courier
“IMPRESSIONS IN SNOW”
Jessica Perry, North Lake Tahoe Bonanza
Best Portrait
“THROUGH THE LENS”
Doug Slater, Tahoe World
“Video camera to the head makes this photo interesting enough to take first place.”
“PSYCHIC”
Bill Hughes, Las Vegas Business Press
“Obstructed face lends interest.”
“EARTH DAY”
Jessica Perry, North Lake Tahoe Bonanza
“As with the second place photo, obscuring a face creates interest.  Needed more contrast – face was lost against wood door in background.”

Best Illustrated Photo
“ROAD BY THE ABBEY”
Belinda Grant, The Record-Courier
“9-YEAR OLD SCORES HOLE-IN-ONE”
Belinda Grant, The Record-Courier

Best Sports Photo
“REBOUND”
Belinda Grant, The Record-Courier
“Not only do we feel the emotion of the rebound, but the composition of the photo is also excellent.  Nice cropping – Great shot!  How did you get this photo?!!”
“FAST ACTION”
Belinda Grant, The Record-Courier
“Great tension!  Feels like you’re the one on the ground.  Too bad the bull is the same color as the dirt – still, there’s a nice feel to the photo.
TIE
“WAKEBOARDER WIPEOUT”
Doug Slater, Tahoe World
“Nice hair!”
“OH, YES”
Belinda Grant, The Record-Courier
“Almost more emotion than you can fit in one photo.”

CLASS IV – SMALL WEEKLIES

General Excellence
Mason Valley News
“With the same publisher for both the Mason Valley News and the Fernley Leader – Dayton Courier, the Mason Valley News stands out with more hard-hitting news, better photos, heads, etc.”

Community Service
“WALKER BASIN WATER ISSUES”
Mason Valley News
“Series is written in an urgent voice.  Every story has an excellent lead.  Informative.”
“ARMPIT OF AMERICA”
Battle Mountain Bugle
“A fun read with valid rebuttals.  The writing staff successfully turned a lemon into lemonade.”
“GROWTH PLAN”
Fernley Leader-Dayton Courier
“Good and thorough coverage of a relevant community issue.”

Best Spot News Story
“LIFEGUARDS TURN NEAR DISASTER INTO HAPPY ENDING”
Robert Perea, Mason Valley News
“”Engaging story – more information on the hero lifeguards would have made the story even richer.”
“IN THE POKEY…”
Laura Tennant, Fernley Leader-Dayton Courier
“Story showed a great sense of drama. Only criticism: the reason for the round-up wasn’t made apparent until the end of the second story.”
“CRIMINALS ESCAPE JUSTICE BECAUSE OF DA OVERLOAD”
Kent Harper, Ely Times
“Lively story.  Strong interest.”
Honorable Mention
“TERRORIST STRIKE”
Gwen Carter, Lovelock Review-Miner
“Good response to 9/11. Information of local preparedness should have been moved to front of story.”

Best Feature Story
“CELEBRATING ONE MOMENT AT A TIME”
Keith Trout, Mason Valley News
“A lot of work, research and depth went into story.  You caught the emotion and the triumph that goes along with the moment.  Well written.”
“SAVING THE STONE HOUSE”
Chris Hanefeld, Ely Times
“How do you reveal emotion about an old stone house?  You did it.  Well crafted–mixed history with reality and made the house come alive.”
“FOR LOCAL SOLDIER, SOME THINGS ARE BEST LEFT UNSAID”
Keith Trout, Mason Valley News
“Poignant.  A story everyone wanted to know…and you gave it to them.”
Honorable Mention
“SWEET KAROLINE’S, FORMERLY DONNA’S DINER, CLOSES DOORS”
Dave Woodson, Battle Mountain Bugle
“Well written with the emotion of the source and a place readers want to remember with fondness.”

Best Business Story
“MEAT PROCESSING, PACKING PLANT READY FOR GO-AHEAD”
Gwen Carter, Lovelock Review-Miner
“Clear and concise writing style; logical progression from beginning to end; appears to have strong local business relevance.”
“INDUSTRIAL ZONE SOUGHT NEAR GOLDFIELD, HIGHWAY 95-A”
Keith Trout, Mason Valley News
“Good explanation of the problem; pertinent quotes.”

Best Investigative or In-Depth Story
“FARMERS/RANCHERS VS INDIAN TRIBES, FEDS, ENVIRONMENATALISTS”
Keith Trout, Mason Valley News
“Excellent coverage of a complex issue with widespread ramifications for much of the Mountain West facing similar/related challenges.”
“ASG VS LYON COUNTY”
Laura Tennant, Fernley Leader-Dayton Courier
“Very good coverage eliciting lot of local response on a critical issue to local people.”
“UNIONVILLE/FLURRY OF FIRES”
Sara Walls, Lovelock Review-Miner
“Excellent coverage for a single-issue report – obviously took lots of hard work in a short time.”

Best Local Column
Dave Sanford, Mason Valley News
“Well written. Stayed with the topic. A nice piece of commentary on life and issues that one can relate to, or be affected by (even for a Giants fan).”
Laura Tennant, Fernley Leader-Dayton Courier
“Columns were a little long and tended to be more of a story than an opinion piece.””

Best Local Sports Story
“VAQUEROS END 22 YEARS OF FRUSTRATION”
Robert Perea, Fernley Leader-Dayton Courier
“Wonderful lead.  The story was engaging throughout.  I think this is what good sports writing in the small press is all about!”
“PCHS BOYS BEAT WEST WENDOVER 63-60 IN A VERY CLOSE GAME”
Troy Daulton, Lovelock Review-Miner
“Perfect sports lead.  Perhaps a little too much of the writer’s opinion comes through.  ‘It was a great game’ in second paragraph is maybe too much editorializing.”
“LONGHORNS SWEEP RAILROADERS IN WEEKEND TOURNAMENT”
Dave Woodson, Battle Mountain Bugle
“Very colorful language.  I would have dropped the third ‘Jekyll and Hyde’ reference.”
Honorable Mention
“BULLDOGS MAKE BOLD STATEMENT”
Robert Perea, Fernley Leader-Dayton Courier
“Solid along with good quotes.”

Best Local Sports Feature
“ITALIAN EXCHANGE STUDENT HAS EMERGED AS A TEAM LEADER BOTH ATHLETICALLY AND EMOTIONALLY”
Dave Woodson, Battle Mountain Bugle
“Interesting story, gives some engaging details.”
“LAMBETH STILL HOPING FOR A DIVISION I SHOT”
Robert Perea, Fernley Leader-Dayton Courier
“This was in-depth, but too long.  It was written competently, but it needed to be shortened. ”

Best Editorial Page
Fernley Leader-Dayton Courier
“Invites excellent responses from public.  Not only tackles issues but throws out extra to chew on!”
Mason Valley News
“This weekly and Leader-Courier are so very similar, sharing a number of writers.  More folksy, tugs at heart strings.  Layout effective, easy to follow.”

Best Page One Design
Mason Valley News
“Nice combination of photos, heads, sub-heads, etc.  Would have liked more consistency in size of  quote boxes.  Is the shading really necessary?  They look better without shading.”
Battle Mountain Bugle
“Consistent but lacked a focal point.  Don’t be afraid of BIG photos.  It’s true that faces (or names) make news, but too many small photos can clutter a front page.”
Lovelock Review-Miner
“More consistency.  Why use an ugly gray box when you have full color?  Consider putting news briefs in a box, or at least change the headline font to match the other heads.”

Best Special Section – News
1. “ARMPIT OF AMERICA?”
Battle Mountain Bugle
“What a great concept for a special section!  Well thought out.  Would have liked bigger pictures throughout.  The center section with Charlie was great.  Picture said it all.  Battle Mountain must not be that bad after all!
2. “REFLECTIONS”
Mason Valley News
“Front cover was excellent.  Historical stories were nice. Would have liked to see more pictures or have the text broken up so it was more inviting to read, or at least larger.”

Best Spot News Photo
“EERIE AFTERMATH…”
Kay Jenney, Mason Valley News
“Technical quality and originality both excellent.  Nice contrast and light.”
“SLIM CHANCE LETTER SENT HERE HAS ANTHRAX”
Troy Daulton, Lovelock Review-Miner
“News value, technical quality both very good.  Photo draws you into the article.”
“TRAIN DERAILMENT SPILLS HAZARDOUS MATERIALS”
Kim Nelson, Battle Mountain Bugle
“Solid photo showing good news value and technical quality.”

Best General News Photo
“TYING UP LOOSE ENDS…”
Keith Trout, Mason Valley News
“Photo a bit dark.  Great capture of silly string.”

Best Feature Photo
“BUSTING YOUR BUBBLE”
Kay Jenney, Mason Valley News
“Interesting, funny shot at gum-blowing contest.”
“ROOTIN’ TOOTIN’ BUCKAROOS”
Kim Nelson, Battle Mountain Bugle
“Great shot of young cowboys – good emotion and interest in faces, body language.”

Best Multiple Feature Photos
“POTTER DENNIS PARK PENS NOVEL”
Lee Denmark, Battle Mountain Bugle
“Very artistic and beautiful shots.”
“SHOWING THE COLORS”
Kay Jenney and Keith Trout, Mason Valley News
“The flags and emotion well captured.”
“FAIR AND RODEO”
Kay Jenney and Keith Trout, Mason Valley News
Honorable Mention
“SMOKEY’S WILD RIDE…”
Kent Harper, Ely Times
“Great photos, but less is more sometimes.”

Best Portrait
“REFLECTIONS”
Jani Lamoreux, Mason Valley News
“Photo shows close relationship, suggests strong sense of protection.  Print is a little too dark.”
“PROUD TO BE AN AMERICAN DUSTDEVIL…”
Laura Tennant, Fernley Leader – Dayton Courier
“Nice catch of an unposed subject.”
“SWEET KARALINE”
Kim Nelson, Battle Mountain Bugle
“Photo is a bit soft – but you’ve caught the wistful, sad look in her eyes.  Nice work.”
Honorable Mention
“CROWD PLEASER”
Laura Tennant, Fernley Leader – Dayton Courier

Best Illustrated Photo
“FROSTY AND SNOOPY”
Laura Tennant, Fernley Leader – Dayton Courier
“I miss Charles Schultz, too!  A photo that will draw young readers to the paper.”
“YOUR NAME COULD BE HERE”
Kay Jenney, Mason Valley News
“Nice, straight-on, powerful shot.”
“DRAWING BLOOD”
Kay Jenney, Mason Valley News
“Good, strong photo – would have made my husband pass out cold!  So it works!”

Best Sports Photo
“A CLOSE CALL”
Robert Perea, Mason Valley News
“What split-second timing!  You got the ball and the flying dirt at the same time.  Lucky you!”

CLASS V – ALTERNATIVE NEWSPAPERS

General Excellence
Las Vegas Mercury
“Overall layout and design excellent.  Excellent editorial.  Good use of graphics and photos.”
Reno News & Review
“Excellent local coverage and features.  Great cover graphics and editorial.”
Las Vegas CityLife
“Strong local content and features.  Good advertising base and placement.  Easily read and good, strong classified section.”

Journalist of Merit
Matt O’Brien, Las Vegas CityLife
“All contestants exhibited diversity in subject matter and provocative reporting.  Very entertaining.”

Best Spot News Story
“FREEDOM TO WRITE SYMPOSIUM”
Matt O’Brien, Las Vegas CityLife
“O’Brien clearly appreciates language and literature.  Strong lead. Excellent coverage of the event, its history and purpose.”
“9-11 COVERAGE’”
Staff, Las Vegas Mercury
“Broad range of stories – how a national tragedy affected a community as well as individuals.”
“WHEN THE BEATLES CAME TO LAS VEGAS”
Joe Schoenmann, Las Vegas Weekly
“Timely.  The issue itself is likely to become memorabilia.”
Honorable Mention
“MONEY FROM DICK MUDDLES YUCCA UNITY”
Heidi Walters, CityLife
“Strong, irreverent voice.  Good quotations.”

Best Feature Story
“TRAGEDY & TRIUMPH:  A LOOK INSIDE CHILD HAVEN”
Matt O’Brien, Las Vegas CityLife
“Mr. O’Brien brings the pain of the quasi-orphanage to astonishing reality, making for a compelling story of human need.”
“THUG LIFE:  A STATUS REPORT ON GANGS IN LAS VEGAS – WILL THE KILLING EVER STOP?”
Damon Hodge, Las Vegas Weekly
“Mr. Hodge’s closeness with the subject of this story lends a bright light to the subject of social dysfunction.”
“THE LABOR OF TEEN PREGNANCY:  FACTS AND FALLACIES OF A LAS VEGAS TABOO”
Kate Silver, Las Vegas Weekly
“Ms. Silver’s coverage shows the progress or lack there of in dealing with a destructive problem.”

Best Business Story
“MOM AND POP SHOPS”
Michael Sion, Reno News & Review
“Great descriptions for good visualizations; nice interweave of old and new – the town, the bar, the people.”
“GROWING PAINS”
Erin Auerbach, Las Vegas Mercury
“Excellent use of a variety of sources – patients, various medical personnel, insurance. Concise and to the point; well-organized and holds the reader’s interest; very pertinent to the local community.”
“NICE GUYS FINISH LEASED”
Bob Shemeligian, Las Vegas Mercury
“Excellent intermix of personal story and reference sources; highly entertaining as well as informative; vivid examples.”
Honorable Mention:
“CASHING IN”
Kate Silver, Las Vegas Weekly
“Demonstrates extensive research and good mix of sources.  Presents both sides of the issue; well organized.”

Best Investigative or In-Depth Story
“WORKING IN A LAS VEGAS STRIP CLUB”
Cynthia Towers, Las Vegas Mercury
“This was a very interesting story, well written with details that showed the reader a different side of the story.  Each piece contributed to the series, but it was never redundant.  Each piece took a fresh angle.”
“DEATH IN THE HOOD AND ADDITIONAL STORIES ON GANGS”
Damon Hodge, Las Vegas Weekly
“The key to making these stories great was the people.  You gave real-life instances of death and pain and yet also got the perspective of the gang members.  Very balanced and well-researched.”
“GETTING GIRLS OFF THE STREETS”
Deidre Pike, Reno News & Review
“Interesting piece on fixing a difficult problem.  I liked how you began with the cops’ point of view, then to the neighbors, then to the hookers.  It’s a problem that doesn’t affect just one side and you explained that.”
Honorable Mention
“FOOL’S GOLD – YUCCA”
Heidi Walters, Las Vegas CityLife
“This was a new angle on the whole Yucca project.  It was interesting to hear from a community that would be most affected and yet hear such mixed reviews.  Nice work on exploring the ‘people’ side of the issue.”

Best Local Column
Geoff Schumacher, Las Vegas Mercury
“Excellent analysis and fearless writing.”
Deidre Pike, Reno News & Review
“Good, strong combination of opinion and observation.”
Chuck Di Rocco, Gaming Today
“Very nice tributes to sports figures – but they verge on being feature stories.”
Honorable Mention
Jimmy Boegle, Reno News & Review
“Good, brief writing style.  Direct.”

Best Local Non-Staff Column
George Knapp, Las Vegas Mercury
“Far and above any other columns submitted in this category.”
Karenmary Penn, Las Vegas CityLife
“One of the few writers in this category not obsessed with some bodily function.”
Saab Lofton, Las Vegas CityLife
“Wading through gratuitous language, I found real concern, real subjects, and real writing.  Nice work.”

Best Local Sports Feature Story
“BASE CAMP”
Tony Moton, Las Vegas Mercury
“Very well written. Sports and non-sports enthusiasts would be entertained.  Well reported and researched.”
“BODY SLAMMED!”
Damon Hodge, Las Vegas Mercury
“Great reporting, informative and entertaining.  Local appeal on a national entertainment.”
“CHICKS IN THE RING”
Molly Brown, Las Vegas Weekly
“Very emotional and well written.  Story loses pace in the middle but finishes real strong.”

Best Local Sports Column
David Stratton, Gaming Today
Geoff Schumacher, Las Vegas Mercury
Mark Mayer, Gaming Today

Best Entertainment Writing
1.  Deidre Pike, Reno News & Review
“She made the stories fun to read.”
2.  Anthony Allison, Las Vegas CityLife
“Well written.  Didn’t give away too much of the storyline and made poignant comments.”
3.  Gabriel Doss, Reno News & Review
“Nice profiles of music and the people who make it.  Well written, with good quotes and organization.”

Best Editorial
“ON HOW TO BECOME THE SULTANATE OF NEVADA”
Joe Schoenmann, Las Vegas Weekly
“I sensed the research involved and learned – I agree with the writer.”
“NEVADA AND THE FALL OF ENRON”
Deidre Pike, Reno News & Review
“Good perspective –  good slam at big business.”
“LORD OF THE RING”
Joe Schoenmann, Las Vegas Weekly
“I just plain liked it.  It drew me in sentimentally and then just said the truth!”

Best Overall Design
Las Vegas Weekly
“Great looking design throughout.”
Las Vegas CityLife
Reno News & Review

Best Page One Design
1.  Las Vegas CityLife
“Big bold headlines grab readers’ attention quickly. Consistent design makes this paper the winner.”
2.  Las Vegas Mercury
“More information, please…Readers want to know there’s more than one story inside.”

Best Page Designer
Bill Hughes, Las Vegas CityLife
“Very innovative.  Nice use of pictures to enhance the text.”
Benjamen Purvis, Las Vegas Weekly
“Most entries were a little busy.  Hard to focus on, but ‘The Alien Design’ and ‘Diary of a Prison Fish’ were gripping…and something different.”

Best Special Section – News
“LOCAL MUSIC”
Las Vegas CityLife
“This issue is the most comprehensive and best illustrated of the special sections.  Articles provide an in-depth look at the local music scene.  Surprisingly clean layout for a music feature.”
“SUMMER GUIDE”
Las Vegas Weekly
“A fun and flippant look at conventional summer guides; good use of photo illustrations; satire is interesting and entertaining.  The VW oven article is great.”
“9-11-01 RENO REACTS”
Reno News & Review
“Nice mix of local reaction and national commentary.  Good illustration.  Local editorial commentary would have added to the overall coverage.”
Honorable Mention
“LOCAL HEROS”
Las Vegas CityLife
“Well written piece.  Good use of photos.”

Best Information Graphic
“TRACKING THE TERRORISTS”
Andrew Kiraly and Andy Taylor, Las Vegas Mercury
“Nice balance and illustrated well with the map in dimensional form.”
HOW LETHAL INJECTION WORKS
Andrew Kiraly and Andy Taylor, Las Vegas Mercury
“Very funny and entertaining. Well done.”

Best Illustration
“YEAR IN REVIEW”
Jeff Henderson, Las Vegas CityLife
“Says it all.  Lots of info in a small package.  You can look at it often and see something new each time.”
“BAIT AND SWITCH”
Greg Higgins, Las Vegas Mercury
“Past vs. present.  Good computer skills.  The splotchy color is effective.”
“KNEE-JERK PATRIOTS”
Andy Taylor, Las Vegas Mercury
“Excellent artistic ability.  Speaks volumes.”

Best Spot News Photo Coverage
“GROUND HERO”
Denise Truscello, Las Vegas Mercury
“News value, technical quality and originality all excellent in this photo group.”
“DEAR GOD, LET SAM’S CLUB SEE THE LIGHT”
Bill Hughes, Las Vegas CityLife
“Good technical quality and news value, but could use greater contrast.”

Best General News Photo
“DROUGHT”
Bill Hughes, Las Vegas CityLife
“Great shot!  Pilot in helicopter bubble almost looks super-imposed.  Size of photo works well.”
“HOUSE OF CARDS”
Jennifer Reynolds, Las Vegas CityLife
“Sepia tone really works with this photo.  Sets tone.”

Best Feature Photo
“BONO”
Bill Hughes, Las Vegas CityLife
“Excellent shot capturing the singer, crowd and emotion.”
“PURPLE PASSION”
David Robert, Reno News & Review
“Great quarter shot of that vintage car.”
“PHAT COUCH”
David Robert, Reno News & Review
“Nice artistic photo of band members.”

Best Multiple Feature Photos
“NEVADA’S PROGRESSIVE FUTURE”
Bill Hughes, Las Vegas CityLife
“Simple but inventive photos.  Very appealing piece of photojournalism.  Technical quality and originality in angle and position of shots great.”
“DODGER BLUES”
Bill Hughes, Las Vegas CityLife
“Interesting series on page 18, good technical quality with good news quality.  Well shot!”
“BURNING BAN”
Debra Reid, Reno News & Review
“Inventive use of screens, color and dramatic black and white.  Interesting layout of center spread photo group.  Good reproduction and originality.”
Honorable Mention
“STRAIGHT FROM THE STREETS”
Bill Hughes, Las Vegas CityLife
“Great photos of central figure.  Original composition and use of color.”

Best Portrait
“MUSLIM WOMAN”
David Robert, Reno News & Review
“Wow!  Her eyes say it all.  The photo is a bit soft – but it becomes her.”
“MARK HUFF”
Bill Hughes, Las Vegas CityLife
“Powerful photo with just hints of the macabre.”
“BUMPER CROP”
Billy Logan, Las Vegas Mercury
“Great straight-on photo with good clarity.  You caught the subject with a hint of a smile.”

Best Illustrated Photo
“GETTING GIRLS OFF THE STREETS”
David Robert, Reno News & Review
“This just grabbed me.  Such loneliness!”
“WHAT A DRAG”
Bill Hughes, Las Vegas CityLife
“Spooky and eerie – very effective.”
“EMT”
David Robert, Reno News & Review
This is what being an EMT is.  Just glimpses and lots of lights.”

Best Headline Writing – All Dailies
Matthew Crowley, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“Clever play on words.  Nice tie-in with current events and popular themes.”
John Katsilometes, Las Vegas Sun
3. Richard LeComte, Reno Gazette-Journal
Honorable Mention
Dave Clayton, Las Vegas Sun

Best Headline Writing – All Weeklies
Matt O’ Brien, Las Vegas CityLife
“Headlines captured the idea and sub-heads gave it the extra kick.”
Anthony Allison, Las Vegas CityLife
“Nice play on words.”
Kirk Kern, In Business Las Vegas
“Nice use of common phrases to make a point…”

ADVERTISING AWARDS – ALL DAILIES

Best Large-Space Ad
“BOSCH MOTORS”
Rosalind Ellifritz, Michele Silva and Lee Denmark, The Humboldt Sun
“Excellent in capturing the spirit of the nation during a time many didn’t want to or feel like advertising.”
“9-11-01 THANK YOU TRIBUTE”
Rick Knotts, Elko Daily Free Press
3.  “DON WEIR’S RENO DODGE”
Robert Woodward, Reno Gazette-Journal
“Simple, yet brings the reader in.”
Honorable Mention
“CHAPMAN DODGE”
Ryan Urry, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“Clever idea.  Appropriately clever ad.”

Best Black and White Color Ad
1.  “WHEN YOU WANT TO GO A LITLE DEEP: LAS VEGAS REVIEW-JOURNAL”
Mike Miller and Jim Decker, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“Great ad design!  This ad had all the elements of an effective ad:  strong photo, great headline, good copy with benefits, effective use of white space.  This is agency quality work!  Excellent job!”
2.  “WHAT JACK’S GOLF GAME NEEDED WAS SOME NEW SCENERY:  LASVEGAS.COM”
Mike Miller, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“Great looking ad with all the right elements.  Strong photograph.”
3.  “WOW:  CHARLES P. VERDEN, M.D.”
Kathy Webb, Reno Gazette-Journal
“Excellent use of a good photo to draw in readers.  Good use of benefits in the copy.”

Best Spot Color Ad
“DICK CAMPAGNI’S”
Robin Gason and Phillip Wooley, Nevada Appeal
2.  “KIA SEDONA”
Elaine Pawliszyn, Reno Gazette-Journal
“GOLD DUST WEST CASINO”
Terri DeLaRosby, Reno Gazette-Journal

Best Multi-Color Ad
“BEN’S FINE WINE AND SPIRITS”
Elaine Pawliszyn, Reno Gazette-Journal
“Artist uses color blending well while keeping with theme.”
“NORTHEASTERN NEVADA REGIONAL HOSPITAL”
Rick Knotts, Elko Daily Free Press
“Artist uses color well to show dated paper while being able to draw attention to logo and text through use of color.”
“RED LION INN AND CASINO/GOLD COUNTRY INN AND CASINO”
Elko Daily Free Press
“Artist grasps the fun and excitement of casino play through bright and subdued color combinations.  Use of photography effective.”
Honorable Mention
“LUCKY CASINO”
Loreen Blanton, The Humboldt Sun
“Artist uses a sky blue background with bright colors to draw the audience in.”

Best Special Section – Advertising
“SKI LAKE TAHOE:  A WINTER LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE”
Reno Gazette-Journal
“This magazine is professional in all areas:  production, distribution, advertising.  It’s refreshing to see quality production throughout – including the advertising.  It is very important to have quality advertising in a high-end glossy, image piece.  The product is attracting the type of advertising it was designed for, which generates new dollars from nontraditional newspaper advertisers.”
“RED LION CASINO ANNIVERSARY”
Elko Daily Free Press
“A traditional and effective way to bring in new dollars.  This product was loaded with advertising daily papers have a hard time tapping into.  The paper did a great job of contacting venders of the Red Lion.  A true win/win.  New revenue for the paper!  Happy customer for Red Lion!”
DISCOVER CARSON”
Nevada Appeal
“Well put together product.  The sales effort was incredible – many directories and other strategies to bring in the revenue.  Excellent product to bring in new dollars.”
Honorable Mention
“SKI TAHOE:  A SNOWRIDER’S ADVENTURE”
Tahoe Daily Tribune
“This product has good advertising support.  The sales effort appears to be well targeted and aggressive.  This is a good product to bring in the travel/tourism dollars.”

Best In-House Advertising Promotion
“VICTIM RELIEF DAY”
Mike Miller and John Hamilton, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“Not only a great idea and thing to do at the time, it was presented remarkably well and helped unite the community in a great event.  The success of campaign speaks for itself.”
“THANKS FOR READING THE HUMBOLDT SUN”
Lee Denmark, J. Carmen Kofoed and Loreen Blanton, The Humboldt Sun
“Brings employees of the community paper to the community.  Especially effective in small and medium sized markets.”
“LASVEGAS.COM”
Mike Miller and Jim Decker, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“Great ads using various people to cover many different interest ranges.  Very repetitive, which is what is needed to promote great ideas.”

Advertising General Excellence
Reno Gazette-Journal
“Nice balance of color and black and white ads.  Excellent classified section.  Layout of ads exceptional.”
The Humboldt Sun
“Clever house ads; special section, promotional ads very appealing.”
Tahoe Daily Tribune
“Introductory page 2 very appealing.  Leads you well into the paper.  Need to watching inking – pages too dark.”
Honorable Mention
Nevada Appeal
“Nice reproduction.  Ad layout could have been better.”

ADVERTISING AWARDS – ALL WEEKLIES

Best Large-Space Ad
“STRIPTEASE”
Tim Micklos and Mike Walker, Las Vegas CityLife
“Ad is simple, attention-compelling without being too graphic – a real challenge to cover an adult dance club.”
“SOLATUBE SERIES”
John Murphy, Reno News & Review
“Ads are clean, with good artwork and simplicity of design.  Good use of color.  Did not mark down because ads were ¼ page size – effective ads are good regardless of size.”
“TOPAZ LAKE VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT”
Chris Olesen and Victoria Grathwohl, The Record-Courier
“An ad that looks like a normal page can be more effective than traditional boxed ads.  Good design work.”

Best Black and White Ad
“JIM KELLEY’S NUGGET SERIES”
Rebecca Roxburgh and Kelly Davis, North Lake Tahoe Bonanza
“Unique creative series – effective use of humor, ad direction, and concept.  Laughed for five minutes.  Despite humor, ads were informative and clearly effective.”
“OUT OF BOUNDS”
Marianne Mancina, Reno News & Review
“Split contrast ad effective for catching attention. Vertical type interesting but not overdone – should appeal to snowboard enthusiasts who treasure vertical slopes.  Well thought out.”
“LAS VEGAS WEEKLY WORKS”
Benjamen Purvis, Las Vegas Weekly
“Creative typestyles and background, conducive to artist freedom of expression.”

Best Spot Color Ad
“JOYCE’S JEWELRY AND ANTIQUES”
Victoria Grathwohl and Chris Olesen, The Record-Courier
“Not only very creative, effective use of spot color but layout as well. Very well stripped and registered. Color was integral part of ad concept.  Very nice work for 1 color.”
“SUSHI MON RESTAURANT”
Nate Hashbarger and Rafal Dziedziniewic, Las Vegas CityLife
“Color was applied well in design – registration was off quite a lot.”

Best Multi-Color Ad
“BELL BOTTOM BASH”
John D. Murphy and Dustin Frost, Reno News & Review
“Intense design elements and color gradients – creative and effective art, theme and colors.  Just like the 70s, which is the idea of the ad.  Must have taken hours to design in Illustrator!”
“BANFF MOUNTAIN FILM FESTIVAL”
Auson Katz Winnie and Jack Popovich, Reno News & Review
“Sandstone background plus clean, well-designed photos and blue counterpoint text boxes make very unified, mood-controlling theme.  Good quality trapping and print work, as well.”
“HAMBURGER MARY’S”
Nate Hashbarger and Mike Walker, Las Vegas CityLife
“Attention-grabbing art and color gradients.  I wish the ‘Mary’ artwork wasn’t faded out – it lost impact without clear separation from background.  Effective, simple design and logo.”
Honorable Mention
“THE NIGHTIES”
Benjamen Purvis, Las Vegas Weekly
“Overall unified.  Could have used contrasting colors in type – ad would have been more powerful.”

Best Special Section – Advertising
“CARSON VALLEY ALMANAC”
The Record-Courier
“Clearly the top of the line.  Powerful articles and great photos.  Well designed ads – wonderful layout and design.  A real showpiece.”
“NORTH SHORE ALMANAC”
North Lake Tahoe Bonanza
“Good use of photos, articles and layout – unified look on pages.  A very good supplement.”
“KIDS’ NEWS AND REVIEW”
Reno News & Review
“A sure winner with families – we don’t play enough on children’s innate charm and appeal.  Every weekly should have a supplement like this.”

Best In-House Advertising Promotion
“ELVIS OF THE WEEK”
Benjamen Purvis, Las Vegas Weekly
“While the contest may sound a little ‘hokey,’ any effort to intimately involve readers with the paper is a good idea.  Weekly papers especially need to get creative and do this more!”
“LAKE TAHOE SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL TICKETS”
The Record-Courier
“Tying subscriptions to a desirable event can be very effective.  Co-sponsoring of events and tie-ins with other activities are very underused in newspapers.  Great use of color photo.”
“BUY”
John D. Murphy, Reno News & Review
“Stimulating the economy in general is not usually tied to self promotion, but it should be.  Timely ad – well designed and creative.”

Advertising General Excellence
Reno News & Review
“Overall good layout and use of space and good mix of color and spot.  The clincher was the kids’ section and especially the Barnes and Noble ad.  Very community friendly.”
The Record-Courier
“Good flow and mix – bright and lively.  Good ‘attention-getters’ with color and copy.  Good community mix.  Good classifieds.”

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