2005 Better Newspaper Contest award winners

Brian May 3, 2005 Comments Off on 2005 Better Newspaper Contest award winners

Story of the Year
“REGISTERED SEX OFFENDERS!  DO YOU KNOW WHO’S LIVING NEXT DOOR?”
Alison Bath, Reno Gazette-Journal
“This series of articles is an excellent example of reporting that can make a difference in society.  Alison Bath’s exhaustive research on the subject of registered sex offenders pays off by finding alarming problems in the state of Nevada’s registration system.  By pointing them out in such dramatic fashion, the Reno Gazette-Journal took the lead on a story of immense interest to readers.  Although the entire series is uniformly excellent, one piece stands out:  ‘I have to live with this the rest of my life.’  The victims’ terrifying story dramatically demonstrates the impact a sexual attack can have, and the series shows how the state has lost track of sex offenders and allowed them to reoffend.”

Editorial of the Year
“DAMN US ALL”
D. Brian Burghart, Reno News & Review
“D. Brian Burghart did a fine job reminding readers how things should work.  ‘That there should be consensus before decisions are made is the lie of the powerful,’ should be posted in every city council, county commission, school board, water board, university board (you get my drift) chamber meeting room.  I wish I’d written it.  Luckily it appears the university folks remembered how important the First Amendment is.”

Ad of the Year
“CLIENT LOGIC”
Wesley Cortes, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“Nice job of blending different elements into one ad that would reflect the clients technical service.”

Photo of the Year
“MARINE 911 – FUNERAL”
John Locher, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“Overall we were disappointed in these entries.  There were photos in other categories that were far superior than this picture.  Although it is a great photo of a tough situation.  There were far better pictures in other categories.  This category does a disservice to the photographers in the state of Nevada.”

Freedom of the Press
Daily Newspapers:
Las Vegas Review-Journal
“Between columns, editorials and day-to-day reporting work, the R-J has done a stellar job of keeping governing bodies accountable to those who elect them.  Excellent work.”

Outstanding Journalist
Daily Newspapers:
Frank X. Mullen Jr., Reno Gazette-Journal
“Frank Mullen’s outstanding series, “Trouble on the farm,” provides a comprehensive examination of a disturbing topic:  allegations of abuse and neglect of research animals at the University of Nevada, Reno.  His reporting resulted in both university and state investigations.  The USDA ultimately cited the university for 46 violations of federal animal welfare regulations.  In addition to focusing attention on the animals, Mullen examined the impact of the story on the researcher who was the whistleblower.  While the animal abuse story is the most striking of his entries, Mullen also wrote moving stories about a holocaust survivor and how 9-11 has impacted people three years later.  No matter what his subject is, this reporter manages to capture a wide range of emotions in the people he interviews.  His work is uniformly outstanding, but he really shines in the investigative pieces on the university.”
Honorable Mention:
Steve Kanigher, Las Vegas Sun
“Steve Kanigher demonstrates an excellent ability to tackle some difficult social issue stories – suck up Nevada’s foster care system – and make a difference by sparking lawmakers to review the system.  The same is true of his story on domestic violence victims.  This reporter’s work is truly deserving of special recognition.  He is an excellent researcher and the care he takes in presenting facts lends credibility to himself and his newspaper.  He would be a great asset to any newsroom.”
Weekly Newspapers:
Emmily Bristol, Las Vegas CityLife
“Bristol has what it takes.  Having the talent of chronicling another’s adventure while pulling the reader into the mix is rare indeed.  Bristol has the ability.  It will be interesting watching her flex her journalistic muscle in the years to come.”

CLASS I – LARGE DAILES

General Excellence
1. Las Vegas Review-Journal
“Overall, this paper has the most visual impact – especially in photo cropping and size.  Local coverage is extensive.  Community and state – focused on editorial page.  We get the feeling Las Vegas’ biggest stories will be covered well here.  Very clean, concise.”
2. Reno Gazette-Journal
“Enterprise reporting is strong.  Editorial page locally focused.  Interactive and reader-friendly.  Appeals to a younger audience.  Great design.  Very close to a tie with the LVRJ, but just didn’t have the striking consistency in excellence.  Also, obit page is really weak and poorly designed.  Obit page is very important to your readers.  Make it look like you think it’s important, too.”

Journalist of Merit
“A triple crown this year with three winners!  Congrats to all!  What an outstanding category.  Very difficult to judge.  After consultation with several judges, we decided that these young journalists should receive the award this year.”
Alison Bath, Reno Gazette-Journal
“Attention writer, researcher and overall excellence.  Sex offender section was truly outstanding – should be entered for a national award.”
Molly Ball, Las Vegas Sun
“This young urban will go far in the industry.  She tells the story behind the story, exploring the issues and making a difference wonderful leads and background.”
Johnathan Wright, Reno Gazette-Journal
“I can’t begin to tell you how much I enjoyed these features.  Super!  He makes a mundane topic very interesting.  Super Leads!”

Community Service
1.  “TRAILER PARK”
Las Vegas Sun
“Great job of grabbing a story and staying with it.  Could have been one-story issue, but you did great continual coverage.  And, you got results.”
2.  “LOOKING FOR TROUBLE”
Reno Gazette-Journal
“Talk about something that affects everyone!  Educated the public on the problem and told them what they needed to know.”
3.  “MOVING TARGETS”
Las Vegas Sun
“Again, great job of taking a single issue and broadening it to where it affects many.  Good, comprehensive package.”
Honorable Mention:
“LAND DEAL”
Las Vegas Review-Journal
“It was enough that you uncovered the problem.  But the real accomplishment was attracting enough attention to get something done.”

Best Spot News Story
“Very tough to judge.  Excellent reporting throughout.”
1. “WATERFALL FIRE”
Teri Vance and F.T. Norton, Nevada Appeal
“The sheer amount of planning that went into this put it on top.  Excellent coordination of resources to cover a breaking news event.”
2. “REVERSAL OF FORTUNES”
Glenn Puit, Carri Geer Thevenot, Frank Geary, Brian Haynes and K.C. Howard, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“Again, shows excellent planning for breaking news.  Very comprehensive coverage.”
3. “AUGUSTINE REPRIMANDED”
Anjeanette Damon, Reno Gazette-Journal
“Good basic coverage, excellent job of providing meaningful background.”
Honorable Mention:
“ALADDIN EXPELS RONSTADT”
Jerry Fink, Las Vegas Sun
“I remember this story hitting the national wire – very complete, very well written.”

Best Feature Story
1. “UNDER APPRECIATED BURDEN”
Paul Harasim, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“The lead is so griping that the reader wants to continue.  Vivid description, wonderful writing and detailed reporting makes this article stand out above many quality entries.”
2. “BRINGING LIFE INTO FOCUS”
Paul Harasim, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“This is an interesting subject and a very well-written feature.  The reporter’s depth of reporting and the level of intimacy conveyed is amazing.”
3. “DEATH WITH DIGNITY”
Richard Lake, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“This is a story almost painful to read because of its depth of detail.  Beautifully written.”
Honorable Mention:
“IN THE FACE OF DANGER”
Brian Haynes, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“Wonderful lead and powerful story, rich in reporting and detail.”

Best Business Coverage
1. Las Vegas Sun
“Good local coverage.  Good statewide coverage.  Excellent – clarity and originality.”
2. Las Vegas Review-Journal
“Overall great business section.  Good local interest, easy reading and good photos.”

Best Business News Story
“Difficult to judge – many great entries!”
1. “WIZARD OF LAS VEGAS”
Rod Smith, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“Very intriguing and great background – wanted to read it.”
2. “SHOOFLY DON’T BOTHER ME”
Bill O’Driscoll, Reno Gazette-Journal
“Good style and technique – background and lead excellent.”
3. TIE
“HOSPITAL OFFERS BUYOUT”
Ryan Randazzo, Reno Gazette-Journal
“Great lead – made me want to read a potentially ho-hum story.”
“PROPERTY INVESTMENT PAYS OFF FOR 104-YEAR-OLD”
Jennifer Shubinski, Las Vegas Sun
“Great story!  What a super story idea.”
Honorable Mention:
“THRIVING JOB MARKET”
Bill O’Driscoll, Reno Gazette-Journal
“PROFIT OR PERISH”
Becky Bosshart, Nevada Appeal

Best Business Feature Story
1. “WEIGHING THE LEGAL ODDS”
Liz Benston, Las Vegas Sun
“Hugh quality of writing.  Story reflects in depth research.  Certainly has local appeal.”
2. “CHASING THE DREAM”
J.M. Kalil, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“Very interesting.  Great writing.  A good look at others view.”
3. “CEO IN THE HOT SEAT”
Bill O’Driscoll, Reno Gazette-Journal
“Well done.  Good research and interview.”

Best Explanatory Journalism
“By no means was it easy to pick winners in this category.  There were many great entries.  I’d love to hire some of these reporters.”
1.  “RESTAURANT INSPECTORS – LOOKING FOR TROUBLE”
Jason Hidalgo, Reno Gazette-Journal
“A fascinating package of information.  Great continuing work by this newspaper.  I love the info about the paper’s time to computerize data vs. the government’s estimated time to do the same!”
2.  “MOVING TARGET”
Molly Ball and Steve Kanigher, Las Vegas Sun
“Amazing data in these stories.  I’ll be nervous on my next visit to Vegas – worried about walking!  I hope the paper persists in coverage of this issue.”
3.  “HOT MARKET…(HOUSING)”
J.M. Kalil and Dave Berns, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“This series must have been of tremendous interest to locals.  Home ownership has been a cornerstone of America, but seems to escape many of us now.”
Honorable Mention:
”HIGH STAKES POWER PLAY”
Susan Voyles, Reno Gazette-Journal
“Susan Voyles made me think I live in Gerlach.  Maybe it’s because I live in Wyoming, where energy is everything – but this is a significant project and a great topic for stories.”

Best News Feature Story
1. “MANHUNT”
Frank Geary, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“This is a fascinating tale of the search for the mysterious ‘Ballarat Bandit.’  The writing and research are both excellent, making this entry stand out in an intensely competitive field.  Great job!”
2.  “INVASION”
J.M. Kalil, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“A compelling series of articles on a huge problem that impacts a large segment of readers.  The reporter aptly conveys the terror victims of home invasions feel and provides valuable information for getting through such an experience unharmed.”
3.  “RAPE VICTIM REACHES OUT TO ATTACKER”
Ed Koch, Las Vegas Sun
“An amazing story of forgivingness that effectively shows how for some people, tragedy can be turned into something positive.”

Best Investigative Or In-Depth Story or Series
1. “DO YOU KNOW WHO’S LIVING NEXT DOOR?”
Alison Bath, Reno Gazette-Journal
“Excellent research work.  Insert provides great resource for readers.  Good use of specific cases.”
2. “AIRPORT LAND”
J.M. Kalil, Adrienne Packer and Lisa Kim Bach, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“Exactly what investigative journalism is about.  Raising an issue in such a way it results in a reaction.  Great!”
3.  “HOT MARKET”
J.M. Kalil and Dave Berns, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“Wow!  What a compelling way to start the series.  Really brought your housing problem home to me.
Honorable Mention:
“MOVING TARGETS”
Molly Ball and Steve Kanigher, Las Vegas Sun
“Great way to showcase a serious problem.  Good use of real-life stories mixed with research statistics.”

Best Local Column
“Very tough to judge.  Excellent entries.”
1.  John L. Smith, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“Great story-telling.  Kept me reading.”
2.  Jeff German, Las Vegas Sun
“Excellent job of presenting strong opinions in tightly written columns.  Very good.”
3.  Steve Sebelius, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“Great political analysis.  Well reasoned.  Consistently good.  Informative.”
Honorable Mention:
Cory Farley, Reno Gazette-Journal
“Great political columns.  Very readable.”

Best Local Non-Staff Column
“This was a difficult category to judge.  All are great and thought provoking!”
1. Jon Ralston, Las Vegas Sun
“Very witty and creative.”
2. TIE
Glen McAdoo, Lahontan Valley News
Erin Breen, Reno Gazette-Journal
“‘Mom Box’ column very touching and beautiful.”

Best Local Sports Story
1.  “OSCAR’S DASH FOR HOME”
Rob Miech, Las Vegas Sun
“Not only did you take me along for Goodman’s stroll through the lobby, you worked the scene into a story about Vegas’ chances at getting baseball.  Great work.”
2.  “EX-BOXER ‘IRISH PAT’ DUNCAN DIES”
Dave Price, Nevada Appeal
“In a fighting state, the local personality stood out in this obit.  Great job of sourcing and bringing out who he really was.”
3.  “STATE TOURNAMENT GOES SOUTH”
Nick Christensen, Las Vegas Sun
“Very good story combining the wide-eyed visitors form the north, their travails in getting accommodations, and what goes into moving the state hoop tournament from its long-standing home.”
Honorable Mention:
“CULTIVATING ‘THE OFFENSE’”
Mark Anderson, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“The style is dry in spots but overall an engaging look at things to come from UNLV’s new coach and his game plan.”

Best Local Sports Feature
1.  “OVER THE TOP”
Martha Bellisle, Reno Gazette-Journal
“Now this is how you do a story on extreme recreation: go do it yourself.  Outstanding detail and great sidebars give the reader great insight into an adventure they can do themselves, albeit with the proper training and equipment.”
2.  “$1,241,358,332: RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN LAS VEGAS, SPEEDWAY HITTING ALL CYLINDERS”
Jeff Wolf, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“In-depth reporting, stellar number crunching and engaging writing make this history of the Las Vegas Motor Speedway well worth the read.  Sidebars complemented the feature well.”
3.  “SATURDAY NIGH LIVE”
Rob Meich, Las Vegas Sun
“Only in Vegas could you take this angle on a seemingly meaningless college football game.  Great idea, well-executed.”
Honorable Mention:
“AT HUG, BASEBALL GIVE WAY TO BUILDING CHARACTER”
Joe Santoro, Reno Gazette-Journal
“Great job of capturing the frustration of a dying baseball program.”

Best Local Sports Column
1.  Ron Kantowski, Las Vegas Sun
“Two interesting stories we might not have heard before, and a commonly held opinion well-articulated – excellent work.  Good versatility.”
2.  Joe Hawk, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“You took three well-reported news stories and found a side of them we didn’t see before.  That is the mark of a good columnist.”
3.  Dan Hinxman, Reno Gazette-Journal
“Good job of getting into some personalities with Lammle and Lendl.  The explanation of betting on baseball was good, too.  Solid work.”
Honorable Mention:
Adam Candee, Las Vegas Sun
“You’ve done good work when you make a non-golf-fan read your stuff.  You got into a couple of good back stories without relying on jargon.”

Best Entertainment Writing
1. Kristen Peterson, Las Vegas Sun
“Very Interesting story content.  Presents a mix of human interest and review with good interviews.  Well done.”
2.  Jerry Fink, Las Vegas Sun
“Gets into the trenches.  Pulls no punches and shows the other side of stars.  I like his description of the star’s performance – ‘unenthusiastic performance’ – good line.”
3.  Forrest Hartman, Reno Gazette-Journal
“Reads like an early Steven King novel at times.  Good work.  Love the ‘Brothel’s haunted.’”
Honorable Mention:
Carol Cling, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“Carol gets into real depth.  I like her style.  Could be placed into the top three also.”

Best Critical Writing
1.  Heidi Knapp Rinella, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“The writer does a great job at describing both the food and the atmosphere at the restaurants she reviews.  We like the fact she can dish out compliments, and zingers with equal aplomb.  And we loved ‘Beer Maul,’ which was both witty and informative.”
2.  Carol Cling, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“The writer nicely sums up each film’s plot without giving away too much, and particularly excels at dissecting what makes each major character tick.  A thorough, professional job.”

Best Editorial Writing
1.  John Kerr, Las Vegas Review-Journal
I have no doubt where you stand.  Wonderfully written, no jarred words, great local topics.”
2. Vin Suprynowicz, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“Clearly defines opinions.  Again, easy to find your position.”
3.  Steve Falcone, Reno Gazette-Journal
“Good, strong writing.  A little inconsistent, but still among the best of all entries.”

Best Editorial Page
1. Reno Gazette-Journal
“Not as good of local issues.  But overall variety is good.  Good letters to the editor.  Good exposure.  Easy reading.”
2. Tahoe Daily Tribune
“Good local issues.  Good letters to the editor.”

Best Overall Design
1.  Reno Gazette-Journal
“We love this paper!  Inside pages are fantastic – which is rare.  They are organized, interactive, full of breakouts and consistent.  Section fronts are tasteful and eye-catching.  Lots of attention to detail.  Friendly to readers – and young readers too!  Photos are big and unique.  Typography is consistent.  The only negative is the ads on the section fronts.”
2.  Las Vegas Review-Journal
“Close race for first.  Good use of photos and you can tell graphics are well-thought-out.  Clean and sophisticated.  Headline hierarchy is clear.  Lots of pull-out boxes and ‘news you can use.’  Would have liked some copy on Sunday 1A.  Overall it’s useful and classy.”

Best Page One Design
1.  Las Vegas Review-Journal
“Clean, striking, professional.  Would stand out in the rack.  Use of large images and large headlines – great.  Would like to see a little more breakout information with stories like the flood.”
2.  Reno Gazette-Journal
“Graphic elements and breakouts very strong.  Great that you take everyday stories and make them exciting.  Very interactive and inviting front pages.  Makes the consumer feel like they get a lot of bang for their buck.”

Best Page Designer(s)
“Very tough category – lots of excellent entries.”
1.  TIE
Mal Van Valkenburg, Las Vegas Review-Journal
Melissa Nunnery, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“Both have great use of one strong feature without taking over the page.”
2. Adam Bucci, Las Vegas Sun
“Crisp design with exciting headlines and artwork use.”
3.  Sarah Walters, Las Vegas Sun
“Great color and photo usage.”

Best Special Section – Editorial
1.  “REGISTERED SEX OFFENDERS”
Reno Gazette-Journal
“This is a amazing section.  Very good graphics.  Photos and stories that inform the community of a very serious problem.  Way ahead of its time.  Documented troubles of tracking sex offenders, before the Florida and Georgia cases.  Your staff should be applauded for outstanding work and foresight.”
2.  “FANS GUIDE TO RENO-TAHOE OPEN”
Reno Gazette-Journal
“Good information for the golf fan, great graphics, great photos and design.  Easy to read and a keeper for fans.”

Best Information Graphic
1. “AN ALTERNATIVE TO THE STRIP”
Adam Bucci, Las Vegas Sun
“Very informative.  Great job fitting in the story – complete look at monorail.  Well done.”
2. “WHO WILL SPOIL SMARTY JONES?”
Mal Van Valkenburg, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“Very well done.  Easy reading.  Good color.”
3.  “THE MEAN SYSTEM”
Adam Bucci, Las Vegas Sun
“Good story graphic.  Tells the story by itself.”
Honorable Mention:
“ONE FOR THE SHOW, TWO FOR THE MONEY”
Mike Johnson, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“This is a very hard category to judge.  All the entries are fabulous.  This work of Johnson’s could have been one of the top three.”

Best Illustration
1. “KEEPING WITH THE (BIG) FISHES”
Mark Antonuccio, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“Clean.  Nice color reproduction.  One dominate image that is striking.  Biggest reason it won:  The illustration is not merely ‘pretty’ it actually tells the story well and is integrated into the overall design.  It’s reader-friendly.”
2. “DROP IT LIKE IT’S HOT”
David Stroud, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“It looks hip and trendy.  It actually looks like Snoop.  I like that it’s a little abstract, yet detailed.  It’s one, uncluttered image.  Caught my eye, made me want to read.”
3. “BUYERS BE READY”
Mark Antonuccio, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“The illustration has draw because it is detailed and has a ‘Far Side’ feel to it.  Coloring is good.  Looks like you might have cut some corners though-using the same elements twice (legs) but in reverse.  Good effort though.”

Best Spot News Photo Coverage
1. “WILDFIRE RAGES IN SOUTH REANO”
David B. Parker and Tim Dunn, Reno Gazette-Journal
“Impressive coverage by the photographers.  Photos worked well together to tell the story of the fire.  The edit was tight and helped to strengthen the package.”
2. “WATERFALL FIRE”
Staff, Nevada Appeal
“Excellent coverage of fire and great commitment by the newspaper to play the photos well.  * Get the text off of the photos!*  Text on the photos does not add to the graphic nature of the pictures.  It hurts them!!!”
3. “NEPHEW SHOT”
Craig Moran, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“Crop tighter.”
Honorable Mention:
“FATAL CRASH”
Matthew Minard, Las Vegas Sun
“Good expression.”

Best General News Photo
1. “TEEN REMEMBERED”
Steve Marcus, Las Vega Sun
“Very strong photo, obviously the photographer stayed long enough to capture ‘a moment’ – instead of just covering the event.”
2. “SOLDIERS DEPLOYED”
Matthew Minard, Las Vegas Sun
“Well executed photo, graphically and compositionally well done.”
3. “NATIONAL GUARD DEPLOYS”
Sam Morris, Las Vegas Sun
“Great emotional impact.  Maybe a little tighter crop.”
Honorable Mention:
“CRASH PUTS FOCUS ON HELMETS”
Clint Karlsen, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“Great photo of a situation that impacted the community.”

Best Feature Photo
1. “BLACK ROCK SCENES”
Scott Sady, Reno Gazette-Journal
“Graphically pleasing, easy to read, warm tones create a playful feeling.”
2. “CROWD CHRYSLER 400”
John Locher, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“Excellent crowd photo very rarely do we see good composition and highlighting with these kinds of photos.
3. “CHILD AT RACES”
Matthew Minard, Las Vegas Sun
“Great expression.  Made us laugh!”
Honorable Mention:
“BALLET BROOM”
Andy Barron, Reno Gazette-Journal
“Good thinking.  Photographer waited for the right moment.”

Best Multiple Feature Photos
1. “INSIDE RABONDO”
Candice Towell, Reno Gazette-Journal
“Strong story, visual content is stunning.”
2. “HE WANTED TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE”
John Locher, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“Photographer made touching images in a difficult situation.  Very emotional.”
3. “BRINGING LIFE INTO FOCUS”
Ronda Churchill, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“Nice story, however the lead image is too soft.  Why?  We are not sure if that was an oversight or intentional.”
Honorable Mention:
“GLIMPSING LENNA”
Cathleen Allison, Nevada Appeal
“Strong storytelling, needs a tighter edit.  Should’ve not used the A1 photo.”

Best Portrait
1. “CONTROLLING THE BURN”
Scott Sady, Reno Gazette-Journal
“Good thinking photographer, new way of looking at portraiture.”
2. “MARINE PHOTO”
Andy Barron, Reno Gazette-Journal
“Overall weak category but good use of lighting.”

Best Illustrated Photo
1. “TERRIFYING TREATS”
Ronda Churchill, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“Well lit and well designed photo, good technical skills.”
2. “WATCH OUT”
Scott Sady, Reno Gazette-Journal
“Good thinking out of the box photo.  Could have been technically executed better.”
3.  “ROOM WITH A HUE”
Ronda Churchill, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“Basic, illustrative photo, should try to challenge photographer’s skills.”

Best Sports Photo
“All in all the sport shooters in this category need to work on making effective crops.”
1. “VICTORY BURNOUT”
R. Marsh Starks, Las Vegas Sun
“This photo stood out because of its graphic nature and its clean background.  It was the most unique photo in the group.”
2. “REBEL DISAPPERS”
Sam Morris, Las Vegas Sun
“Great light with a funny moment – it’s in the need of a tight vertical crop.”
3. “BAREBACK FALL”
Andy Barron, Reno Gazette-Journal
“The horse’s expression makes the photo.”
Honorable Mention:
“MOUTHPIECE FLYING”
Amy Beth Bennett, Las Vegas Sun
“Nice moment.”

CLASS II

General Excellence
1. Tahoe Daily Tribune
“Consistent dominate art leads reader into story.  Page designers have educated eye for clean layout.”
2. Elko Daily Free Press
“Good use of most lead and lead-ins.  Good variations in front page design keeps readers intrigued.”
3.  Lahontan Valley News
“Broad coverage with emphasis on local interest.  User friendly inside section headers.”

Community Service
1.  “HIGH SCHOOL JOURNALISM CLASS”
Lahontan Valley News
“Maybe I’m biased, but I can’t think of a more important project than helping maintain the high school newspaper.  You deserve first.”
2.  “HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETICS”
Tahoe Daily Tribune
“…But this is a close second.  Nice way to support something so important to the community.”

Best Spot News Story
1.  “NAZI GRAFFITI MARS CITY”
Jeff Munson and Greg Crofton, Tahoe Daily Tribune
“Great job of in-depth reporting on a tough subject with not much time to do it.  Coverage was clear and comprehensive.”
2. “8 STUDENTS ARRESTED ON DRUG CHARGES”
William Ferchland, Tahoe Daily Tribune
“Nice Job of complete coverage of a major spot news story in one tight article.”
3. “OUTBURST MAY MEAN HARKINS MISTRIAL”
Peter Schelden, Sparks Tribune
“Nice tight lead on a crisply worked hard news article.  Good attention to detail.”

Best Feature Story
1.  “NOTHIN’ BUT A COWBOY”
Sam Brown, Elko Daily Free Press
“Great attention to detail in the writing.  Author effectively painted colorful pictures with words alone – not an easy thing to do.  Story is bursting with emotion.”
2. “JUST PLAYIN’ IT BY EAR”
Josh Johnson, Lahontan Valley News
“So much feeling in this article.  I could feel the whippings, see the father’s icy look, hear the music, just from reading the story.  A few minor style problems, though.”
3. “THE HERMIT OF EMERAL BAY”
Amanda Fehd, Tahoe Daily Tribune
“A fun story to read and one that proved quite interesting.  Writing was solid, style was right on.”
Honorable Mention:
“CELEBRATING LIFE”
Sam Brown, Elko Daily Free Press
“TENDING THE TITANS”
Josh Johnson, Lahontan Valley News
“Both great stories told well, despite some minor style issues.”

Best Business News Story
1. “COST OF HEALTH CARE SOARING”
Susan Wood, Tahoe Daily Tribune
“Crisp, clear, easy-to-follow writing style.  Good blend of national and local statistics, reactions and effects.”
2. “DISTRICT ATTORNEY MOVES TO REVOKE BROTHEL’S LICENSE”
Marlene Garcia, Lahontan Valley News
“Nice job of handling in-depth business issue.  A great deal of valuable research paid off big in this article.”

Best Business Feature Story
1.  “FERMENTING ON THE FARM”
Cory McConnell, Lahontan Valley News
“Simple, but effective lead pulls the reader into a well-crafted write-up on an interesting business topic.”
2.  “LOTIONS & POTIONS”
Marianne Kobak, Elko Daily Free Press
“A great way to introduce a new business with an interesting news angle.  Stylistically sound.”
3.  “WELCOME TO WALLY WORLD”
Kim Lamb, Lahontan Valley News
“Nice writing mechanics make this article an interesting business feature.”
Honorable Mention:
“COUNTRY CLIPPIN’”
Marianne Kobak, Elko Daily Free Press
“A perfect example of how to profile a business with warmth, sincerity and a focus on people.  Lead was good, but could have been stronger.”

Best Explanatory Journalism
1.  “INSURANCE CHECKUP (SERIES)”
Gregory Crofton, Tahoe Daily Tribune
“Nice use of sidebar and complimentary stories to provide wealth of easily understood information.”
2.  “COMMUTING FOR DIALYSIS A HARDSHIP FOR RESIDENTS”
Josh Johnson, Lahontan Valley News
“Good combination of human interest and explanatory stories, which keep subject personal yet informative.”
3.  “EARTHQUAKE NO PROBLEM FOR NEW WAL-MART SUPERCENTER”
Cory McConnell, Lahontan Valley News
“Good articulation of possible catastrophe and solution.”

Best News Feature Story
1.  “TAHOE WOMAN BATTLES HIV”
Susan Wood, Tahoe Daily Tribune
“Very good story.  A great inside look at a major problem.”
2.  “TEEN KILLED FRIEND”
Marlene Garcia, Lahontan Valley News
“What a sad story.  Great coverage by Garcia.”
3.  “FIGHTING CITY HALL”
Angela Potter, Sparks Tribune
“A great exposure to the effect of race.  Good job.  ‘Sounds like Russell has been a victim’ – also the story should show how it can happen.”
Honorable Mention:
“NEVADA’S CRICKET PLAGUE”
Kim Lamb, Lahontan Valley News
“Great subject matter.  This story was without question read by an audience of young and old.”

Best Investigative or In-Depth Story
1. “FIRE IN THE SIERRA”
Gregory Crofton, Tahoe Daily Tribune
“Great package, good way to inform public of potential problems.  Love the way the stories were broken up.”
2.  “SALT WELLS BROTHEL”
Marlene Garcia, Lahontan Valley News
“Great series of stories on unique topic.  First story a little weak, but follow-ups good and informative.”
3.  “FIRE ALARM”
Marianne Kobak, Elko Daily Free Press
“Great educational series for readers.  Who knew there were differences in fire alarms?”
Honorable Mention:
“SCHURZ TEEN SHOT”
Marlene Garcia, Lahontan Valley News
“Good, solid reporting throughout.”

Best Local Column
1.  Steve Lyon, Lahontan Valley News
“Nice flow to the work, very ‘folksy’ feeling.  Funny without being forced.  Nice!”
2.  Jim Scripps, Tahoe Daily Tribune
“Good overview of local/national issues.  Very easy to read and understand.”
3.  Mike Christensen, Elko Daily Free Press
“Nice review of daily life.  Loved the ‘Q & A’ column.  Humor sometimes slightly forced, but still good.”
Honorable Mention:
David Henley, Lahontan Valley News
“Great local interest pieces.  Well written.”

Best Local Sports Story
1.  “THE WEDGE”
Jeremy Evans, Tahoe Daily Tribune
“Getting out to the slopes and doing a story on a long-running feud was a great idea, and this was well executed.  Engaging style and wide range of sources makes this a great read.  Good job.”
2.  “RARE SOUTHERN NEVADA STATE TOURNAMENT DRAWS RAVE REVIEWS”
Dan Eckles, Sparks Tribune
“Very relevant story was well-sourced and well-written.  You made the numbers easy to understand and took a good look at the future.”
3.  “MODERN DAY GLADIATORS”
Steve Ranson, Lahontan Valley News
“Good job of getting in the heads of bull riders.  The narrative style works well here.”
Honorable Mention:
“DERAILED”
Sam Brown, Elko Daily Free Press
“Excellent job of capturing the big upset win by Wells.  Keep play-by-ply at a minimum next time.  Though it was a close game and some of that was merited, you could go into what the win means instead of what happened.”

Best Local Sports Feature
1.  “FACE RATS: AN ENDANGERED SKI SPECIES?”
Jeremy Evans, Tahoe Daily Tribune
“Another great ski back story.  The ‘ski bum culture’ is explored deftly and sensitively.  Great storytelling, too.”
2.  “TALENT ANCHORED IN TAHOE”
Jeremy Evans, Tahoe Daily Tribune
“Both stories do the job of getting into why local players don’t move on.  The cultural thing is a tough angle, but kudos for having the ability to address it.”
3.  “LANE: SHE CAN PITCH, HIT AND FIELD”
Steve Yingling, Tahoe Daily Tribune
“Not your average girl in Little League story at all.  Good job at getting around trying to get good copy from a 10-year-old.”
Honorable Mention:
“DEAN AND THE DEFENDERS”
Sam Brown, Elko Daily Free Press
“Good look at the setup men behind the top scorer.  Great explanation of their votes within the team.”

Best Local Sports Column
1.  Sam Brown, Elko Daily Free Press
“Great, personal approach to sports issues.  Very easy to read.”
2.  Steve Ranson, Lahontan Valley News
“Nice behind the scenes look at local sports.”
3.  Dan Eckles, Sparks Tribune
“I like the fact you don’t hesitate to question authority.  Nicely done.”
Honorable Mention”
Steve Yingling, Tahoe Daily Tribune
“Very folksy style, very readable.”

Best Entertainment Writing
1.  Sam Brown, Elko Daily Free Press
“Good interviews, great resulting stories.  Solid reporting.”
2.  Peter Schelden, Sparks Tribune
“Nice job of enlightening viewers without giving things away.  Good, easy-to-read reviews.”
3.  R. Keith Rugg, Tahoe Daily Tribune
“Good, solid stories.  Lead-in grafs could be trimmed a little.”

Best Editorial Writing
1.  Jeffry Mullins, Elko Daily Free Press
“Important issues, understandable writing and unmatched research bring these editorials to the top of the class.”
2.  Steve Lyon, Lahontan Valley News
“Convincing arguments presented on three important issues.”
3.  Rick Swart, Lahontan Valley News
“Writer is not afraid to take strong stands on a trio of important local issues.”

Best Overall Design
1.  Tahoe Daily Tribune
“Great general design.  Good balance between photos and copy.  Would have liked to see introductions of another font choice.”
2.  Elko Daily Free Press
“Also great design and layout.  Has a great balance using photos.  Should also be chosen as a 1A placement.  (Could use a little more white space.)”

Best Page One Design
1.  Lahontan Valley News
“Good general layout.  Good use of feature photos.  Good use of white space to improve reading ability.”
2.  Elko Daily Free Press
“Good use of photos.  Should use more white space in overall layout.”

Best Page Designer
1.  Mike Christensen and Martin Harris, Elko Daily Free Press
“Love the cutouts and use of white space.”
2.  Sam Brown, Elko Daily Free Press
“Good use of feature/graphics”

Best Special Section – Editorial
1.  “21ST ANNUAL NATIONAL COWBOY POETRY GATHERING”
Elko Daily Free Press
“Great project.  Well printed.  Good subject mater.  Lots of ads.  Loved the layout/design.”
2.  “SILVER STATE INTERNATIONAL RODEO”
Lahontan Valley News
“Good general layout.  Well supported by advertisers.  Good color work.  Nice job.”
3.  “NORTHERN NEVADA HUNTING”
Lahontan Valley News
“Wonderful front cover.  Good color work.  Good story content.”

Best Information Graphic
1.  “FOR SALE”
Rebecca Enerson, Tahoe Daily Tribune
“Good use of actual signage for design layout.  Easy read.”
2.  “TIME LINE”
Kim Lamb, Lahontan Valley News
“Easy read.”

Best Spot News Photo Coverage
1.  “ANDREW FIRE”
Debra Reid, Sparks Tribune
“‘Great’ photo showed the photographer was willing to take risks and serve the community.  A had to be there photo, that showed photographer worked hard for access.”
2.  “GIVING COMFORT”
Kim Lamb, Lahontan Valley News
“Good moment captured. Shows police officers are human and usually first on the scene.”
3.  “SENIOR CENTER VANDALIZED”
Debra Reid, Sparks Tribune
“Good photos from a potentially boring situation.  Photographer was very creative with use of different angles.”
Honorable Mention:
“CLOSE CALL”
Ross Andréson, Elko Daily Free Press
“Photographer got great emotional photo.  Needed tighter cropping.”

Best General News Photo
1.  “FATAL ACCIDENT”
Debra Reid, Sparks Tribune
“Very strong photo.  A real and honest moment captured with care and class.  Well done!”
2.  “JUMP”
Debra Reid, Sparks Tribune
“Photographer did well by waiting for the right pattern made by the jumpers.  I would crop a little on the right, into the wing of the plane just a bit.  It would balance the photo.”
3.  “MAKING WAY FOR TIME SHARES”
Dan Thrift, Tahoe Daily Tribune
“Photographer made a good image out of a boring assignment.  Good thinking by going inside.”

Best Feature Photo
1.  “CATTLE DRIVE”
Ross Andréson, Elko Daily Free Press
“Great composition and light.”
2.  “SHOVEL DADDY”
Jim Grant, Tahoe Daily Tribune
“Great catch by photographer.”
3.  “BABY CHOPPER”
Ross Andréson, Elko Daily Free Press
“Just a funny photo.”

Best Multiple Feature Photos
1.  “STUDENT KILLED”
Debra Reid, Sparks Tribune
“This two picture package won over other pages with more photos, simply because both photos were strong and pulled me in to the story.”
2.  “AGAINST THE STICK”
Dan Thrift, Tahoe Daily Tribune
“Needed tighter editing and fewer photos.  But well photographed with some strong images.”
3.  “DEATH VALLEY EXTREMES IN PHOTOGRAPHY”
Jim Grant, Tahoe Daily Tribune
“Beautiful scenes and included people in the photos.  Could have been edited tighter – only needed four photos to tell the story.”
Honorable Mention:
“WONDER”
Ross Andréson, Elko Daily Free Press
“Good story with too many photos.”

Best Portrait
1.  “HERION ADDICT”
Jim Grant, Tahoe Daily Tribune
“The portrait is powerful and shows the pain and despair of addiction.’
2.  “JUST PLAYIN’ IT BY EAR”
Kim Lamb, Lahontan Valley News
“The man in the photograph has an interesting face and hands. The photo does a good job of showcasing those things.”
3.  “FALLON ARTIST”
Kim Lamb, Lahontan Valley News
“The subject is framed nicely by his art.”

Best Illustrated Photo
1.  “CARDIAC KIDS”
Kim Lamb, Lahontan Valley News
“Good design.”
2.  “ERA OF ANNOYANCE”
Dan Thrift and Rebecca Enerson, Tahoe Daily Tribune
“Great use of composites.”
3.  “FAKE OR BAKE?”
Dan Thrift, Tahoe Daily Tribune
“Good idea used well.”

Best Sports Photo
1.  “EMOTIONAL CERMONY”
Debra Reid, Sparks Tribune
“First place obvious – good emotion.”
2.  “NORTHSTAR”
Jim Grant, Tahoe Daily Tribune
“Great action.”
3.  “DOUBLE DUALS”
Mike Christensen, Elko Daily Free Press
“Good wrestling.  These types of photos are hard to get photos.  Did a good job.”

CLASS III

General Excellence
1.  Henderson Home News
“In-depth coverage of local news, strong editorial content, sharp layout and design, good use of dominant artwork.  Overall, a superior weekly publication.”
2.  Pahrump Valley Times
“Tons of broad in-depth local and regional news, editorial page is strong, crisp design.”
3.  The Record-Courier
“Strong editorial content, nice detail, layout easy to follow and inviting.”
Honorable Mention:
Fallon Star Press
“Excellent layout.”

Journalist of Merit
Anne McMillin Goodale, Fallon Star Press
“I was hoping Anne’s name would appear among the submissions for this category!  As I’ve perused the many articles in varied large weekly categories, as well as this one, Anne’s work has continually pulled an emotional chord missing so much journalistic work today.  She has consistently reported the stories in an easily readable manner.  She’s got it!”

Community Service
1.  “HIGHLIGHTING DRUG USE”
Tahoe World
“A fine job bringing a hidden problem into the light and sourcing resolution.”
2.  “THE COST OF TEACHING”
Henderson Home News
“The paper did a wonderful job of covering every aspect of the issue.”
3.  “CARSON VALLEY CARES”
The Record-Courier
“You did a great job in supporting your local heroes as well as those in drag.”

Best Spot News Story
1.  “LOCAL MEN RESCUED AFTER BOAT FLIPPED”
Merry Thomas, North Lake Tahoe Bonanza
“The ‘wild ride’ will get them every time.”
2.  “HOMICIDE AFFECTS TWO LOCAL FAMILIES”
Anne McMillin Goodale, Fallon Star Press
“Well written.  Very emotional.”
3.  “PILOT DIES IN CRASH AT SUGAR BOWL”
David Bunker, Sierra Sun
“Solid writing.”

Best Feature Story
1.  “GIRL USES SCHOOL CPR CLASS TO SAVE LIFE”
Erin Roth, North Lake Tahoe Bonanza
“Out of many entries, this story stood out the most.  Quality writing blends with an emotional story for a powerful article.  Wonderful use of quotes.”
2.  “CRIME SCENE SLEUTH”
Heather Rawlyk, Henderson Home News
“The lead is very engaging and caught my attention; as good leads should.  Interesting subject, quality writing.”
3.  “DOCTOR PRESCRIBES MOVIES AS CURE FOR MANY EMOTIONAL PROBLEMS”
Ben Stephens, Henderson Home News
“This story succeeds at a hard task – getting the reader to follow the jump.  It is interesting and engaging, making the reader want to continue.”
Honorable Mention:
“A VOLUNTEER OF A DIFFERENT BREED”
Jack Carrerow, North Lake Tahoe Bonanza
“WARTIME ROMANCE”
Shelia Gardner, The Record-Courier
“Both of these articles focus on interesting subjects and quality writing couples with the subject to create a wonderful article.”

Best Business Coverage
1.  In Business Las Vegas
“Wow!”
2.  Las Vegas Business Press
“Great lead!”
3.  Fallon Star Press
“Rock solid writing.”
Honorable Mention:
Henderson Home News
“Well rounded business coverage.”

Best Business News Story
1.  “DOWNTOWN MONORAIL FUNDS DERAILED”
Tony Illia, Las Vegas Business Press
“Solid story with good history development.”
2.  “TRAFFIC POWER CREATES GRIDLOCK”
Kevin Capp, Las Vegas Business Press
“Personalized stories hit home and Capp does a great job of presenting Ohrum to the reader.”
3.  “FEDEX MOVING OPERATION, 234 JOBS TO HENDERSON”
Joshua Primack, Henderson Home News
“Huge impact on a community.”

Best Business Feature Story
1.  “BANKER LEARNS TO ROLL WITH THE PUNCHES”
Valerie Miller, Las Vegas Business Press
“Nice read.  Miller brings life to a less than lively topic, banking.  It proves, everyone has a story.”
2.  “BUYING INTO THE POTENTIAL OF KINGS BEACH”
Megan Michelson, Tahoe World
“Great revitalization story.”
3.  “NEW HIGHLAND MANOR FACILITY EASES FAMILY’S PAIN”
Anne McMillin Goodale, Fallon Star Press
“Well written.”

Best Explanatory Journalism
1.  “THE COST OF TEACHING IN CLARK COUNTY (SERIES)”
Abigail Goldman, Henderson Home News
“Through the use of a series, the writer attacks the topic of low teacher salaries from a variety of angles.  It’s obvious a wealth of good reporting went into this series.”
2.  “COUNTY, DISTRICTS FIGHT BACK”
Melissa Siig, Tahoe World
“The writer took a confusing issue and explained what both sides of the issue want to do.  Also, we get examples of how the local revenue taken from the state affects local taxpayers.”
3.  “IF A MAJOR FIRE SWEPT THROUGH TAHOE…”
Melissa Siig, Tahoe World
“The writer provides specific, concrete examples of what would happen in case of a major fire.  The topic is of great relevance to the newspaper’s readership, and something most probably don’t know about.”
Honorable Mention:
“BROADBAND:  THE CONNECTION TO TRUCKEE’S FUTURE”
Paul Raymore, Sierra Sun
“The reporter does well in exploring all of the pros and cons of fiber optic broadband.  Great reporting in bringing in the example of the community in Tennessee.”

Best News Feature Story
1.  “WITH LEGAL BATTLES DONE”
Melissa Siig, Tahoe World
“A great verbal illustration.”
2.  “MENTAL HEALTH CONCERNS”
Christina Nelson and Erin Roth, North Lake Tahoe Bonanza
“An emotional read.”
3.  “OUTPOURING OF SUPPORT”
Heather Rawlyk, Henderson Home News
“Nice story.”

Best Investigative or In-Depth Story
1.  “INDIAN HILLS”
Susie Vasquez, The Record-Courier
“Great reporting combining meeting coverage and good, solid research.  If readers didn’t know every aspect of this issue, it was their own fault.”
2.  “NORTH TAHOE PUBLIC UTILITY DISTRICT”
Megan Feldman, Tahoe World
“Great look at an agency a lot of people take for granted.  Good, solid reporting.”
3.  “TEACHING IN CLARK COUNTY”
Abigail Goldman, Henderson Home News
“You sure covered all the bases here.  Excellent main bar, very informative sidebars.”

Best Local Column
1.  Doug McMurdo, Pahrump Valley Times
“Doug – capture your interest.  Hard hitting at times, yet a sharing insight for the readers’ consideration.”
2.  Liz Benston, In Business Las Vegas
“Develop a great insight of issues – informative.”
3.  Colleen O’Callaghan, Henderson Home News
“Easy to follow – carries a readers’ message with facts and a touch of humor.”
Honorable Mention:
Bruce Spotleson, In Business Las Vegas

Best Local Non-Staff Column
1.  Jon Ralston, In Business Las Vegas
“Makes valid arguments in a clear, easy-to-read way.  Writing is stylistically solid.”
2.  Ryan McGinness, Fallon Star Press
“Presents interesting perspective back up with facts.  A few minor style problems evident.”
3.  Rene Hill, Henderson Home News
“Quality of grammar.  Style is superb.”
Honorable Mention:
McAvoy Layne, North Lake Tahoe Bonanza
“Fun and easy to read – and with a point.  A few style issues, but otherwise, great.”

Best Local Sports Story
1.  “¡VIVA!  LAS LAKERS”
Tripp Mickle, Tahoe World
“You took a great sports story and put it into words very well.  The dual goals and co-celebration was easy to visualize.  The sidebars broke the games down well with a good mix of details and comments from those involved.”
2.  “CITY TO ACQUIRE WILDHORSE GOLF CLUB IN LAND SWAP”
Kevin Fiddler, Henderson Home News
“Very solidly written and reported.  Most of my questions were answered in the article.  Good mix of the ‘why’ and ‘how’ of the topic.”
3.  “HANDLEY SNATCHES COMEBACK AWAY FROM TIGERS”
Joey Crandall, The Record-Courier
“Very good detail-oriented lead, the exciting and controversial play.  I could visualize it thanks to your writing.  Solid secondary information to tie things up.”
Honorable Mention:
“NORTH TAHOE TOPS TRUCKEE IN LEAGUE OPENER”
Tripp Mickle, Tahoe World
“Solid reporting with good in-game details.  One of the better straight game recap stories.”

Best Local Sports Feature
1.  “SOMETIMES A THOUSAND WORDS MAKE THE PICTURE”
Joey Crandall, The Record-Courier
“Using the sounds of sport to illustrate this story was an excellent idea, and well-executed.  You told the story very well and put the reader in his shoes.  Well done.”
2.  “WOMEN OF WINTER”
Tripp Mickle and Megan Michelson, Tahoe World
“Great job at getting beyond the ‘pretty face’ coverage of women’s sports, especially the ‘fringe’ sports.  I liked this story a lot.”
3.  “CIVIL WAR”
Kevin Fiddler, Henderson Home News
“If you’ve got to write an advance, might as well make it a feature.  Great angle to take, and well-executed.”
Honorable Mention:
“A CLASS ACT”
Raymond Brewer, Henderson Home News
“Interesting look at the life of a sports pioneer.  A couple more sources would have been good but this is a well-written story.”

Best Local Sports Column
1.  Tripp Mickle, Tahoe World
“Good look at local athletes and athletics.  Well written.”
2.  Robert Perea, Mason Valley News
“Good, personal touches to local issues.”
3.  Raymond Brewer, Henderson Home News
“Good analysis of local issues.”
Honorable Mention:
Morris Workman, Desert Valley Times
“Funny stuff.  Enjoyed it.”

Best Entertainment Writing
1. Ben Stephens, Henderson Home News
“Stephens knows his topic and leads in with a strong hand.”
2. Eric Ruiz, Desert Valley Times
“Consistent.”
3.  Tripp Mickle, Tahoe World
“Strong sparks.”

Best Critical Writing
1.  Kevin Fiddler and Carolyn Fiddler, Henderson Home News
“Easy and entertaining to read.”

Best Editorial Writing
1.  Jean Reid Norman, Henderson Home News
“Well developed argument in each editorial offered.  Not afraid to target issues addressing the community at large.”
2.  Kurt Hildebrand, The Record-Courier
“Nice development.  Could use an alternative style to make it really pop off the page.”
3.  Megan Feldman, Tahoe World
“Pops off the page.”

Best Editorial Page
1.  In Business Las Vegas
“Hard hitting.  Well done.”
2.  Tahoe World
“Love the ‘Guest Commentary’.  The entry page is well done – should give it a first place too.”
3.  Henderson Home News
“Good variety of reading – liked ‘Our View.’”

Best Overall Design
1.  Henderson Home News
“A very clean paper that is easy for the reader to follow.”
2.  Tahoe World
“Very strong lead photographs and user friendly index.”
3.  The Record-Courier
“Solid story count and good headline flow.”

Best Page One Design
1.  Sierra Sun
“A good general design/layout – easy eye focus.  Good use of photos.  Should refrain from any advertisement on front page bottom.”
2.  Henderson Home News
“Great overall design.  Easy to read.  Good use of photos.  Should be a first place design paper.  Also, no banner ads on bottom – I like that.”
3.  Fallon Star Press
“Good use of photos.  Great flag.  Good general layout.  Do NOT like banner ads on bottom!”
Honorable Mention”
The Record-Courier
“Well done overall.  Somewhat busy to the eye.  However, marked down for advertisement on front page.  Resist temptation from ad department.”

Best Page Designers
1.  Travis Ambrose, North Lake Tahoe Bonanza
“Good use of large single photo-pulls smaller photos together.  Excellent color use on white water feature.”
2.  Keith Sheffield, Tahoe World
“Good packaging of pictures and copy.”
3.  Tripp Mickle, Tahoe World
“Love the back 2 back features.  Unique.”

Best Special Section – Editorial
1.  “TAHOE SUMMER”
Tahoe World
“Hitting your target.  No gloss here.  The adventurous are sure to pull this one off the rack first.”
2.  “ALMANAC 2005”
North Lake Tahoe Bonanza
“Polished.”
3.  “TRUCKEE LOCALS”
Sierra Sun
“Your community has to love this.”

Best Information Graphic
1.  “HOW TEACHERS’ SALARIES ARE DISTRIBUTED”
Adam Bucci, Henderson Home News
“Color is great – it allows the pie chart to open to the eye on its own.  Easy reading.”
2.  “NEVADA GAMING REVENUE AND COLLECTIONS”
J. Carmen Kofoed, The Humboldt Sun
“Well done to tell the story.  I would suggest a larger font and enlarge the graph to 4 columns.”
3.  “HOW IT WORKS’”
Kurt Hildebrand, The Record-Courier
“Very easy to visualize.  You see the story in the graphic.  Good job.”
Honorable Mention:
“TRI-COUNTY UNEMPLOYMENT RATES”
J. Carmen Kofoed, The Humboldt Sun
“Easy to read.  Clipart of people draws the interest of the reader.”

Best Illustration
1.  “WORST DATES”
Alexander Raffi, Henderson Home News
“Strong image – tells a story.”
2.  “VALENTINE”
Joni Hill, The Record-Courier
“Great artist!”

Best Spot News Photo Coverage
1.  “PICK UP DAY LABORERS”
Leila Navidi, Henderson Home News
“Great catch by photographer showed she waited for the right moment.  Lots of patience.”
2.  “ROUNDED UP IN THE RANCHOS”
Belinda Grant, The Record-Courier
“Good general spot news photo.  Photographer was on the scene for good coverage.”
3.  “STRETCHED THINNER THAN A DIME”
Horace Langford, Pahrump Valley Times
“Good fire photo. Well played and displayed.”
Honorable Mention:
“TO THE RESCUE”
Belinda Grant, The Record-Courier
“Good accident photo.  Good display.”

Best General News Photo
1.  “REMEMBERING NICOLE”
Belinda Grant, The Record-Courier
“Strong emotional impact.  Touching image.”
2.  “READY FOR THE MARINES”
Brian D. Schultz, North Lake Tahoe Bonanza
“Excellent use of long shadows.”
3.  “GLIDER COMPETITION”
Belinda Grant, The Record-Courier
“Nice lines and good use of motion.  Why did they put words on this photo?  They destroyed this picture’s balance and they’re UGLY!”

Best Feature Photo
1.  “DADDY-DAUGHTER DANCE”
Leila Navidi, Henderson Home News
“Great moment.  Well done.”
2.  “ZOOM ZOOM”
Brian D. Schultz, North Lake Tahoe Bonanza
“Great use of light and other elements used to make good feature.”
3.  “LITTLE MERMAID”
Phillip Gomez, Pahrump Valley Times
“Good photo from an overdone situation.”
Honorable Mention:
“DESERT IN BLOOM”
Mike Stotts, Henderson Home News
“Great scene.  Photographer took his time and waited for the right light.”

Best Multiple Feature Photos
1.  “SQUARE DANCING”
Mike Stotts, Henderson Home News
“Good faces, albeit redundant.  Try using a long lens to break things up.”
2.  “HISTORY ON TAP”
Brian D. Schultz, North Lake Tahoe Bonanza
“The best photo is the man lighting his smoke.  It should’ve led the page.  Otherwise, a nice collection of images.  While it’s no fault of the photographer, photos should NOT overlap.  It’s distracting and just ugly.”
3.  “EXPRESS DELIVERY”
Court Leve, Tahoe World
“Nice variety of angles and movement make an otherwise dull assignment entertaining.  I’m not fond of the layout.  Photos should be spaced apart rather than connected.”
Best Portrait
1.  “LIBERACE IMPERSONATOR”
Leila Navidi, Henderson Home News
“The portrait stands out because of the expression of the subject.  The photo should have been played much bigger in the newspaper.”
2.  “FIRE WOMAN”
Court Leve, Tahoe World
“The photograph is good.  It shows the photographer trying to do something creative.  Note to designers – there’s already enough text on the page; get it off the photographs.”
3.  “KEEP IT CLEAN”
Steve Marcus, In Business Las Vegas
“It’s nice.  I liked the way the photographer created layers and levels using the ladder.”
Honorable Mention:
“AIRPORT SUPERVISOR”
Ethan Miller, In Business Las Vegas
“Good job of thinking outside the box.  It’s much better than an office portrait.”

Best Illustrated Photo
1.  “NO BLUFFING”
Leila Navidi, Henderson Home News
“Well composed.  A small amount of off-camera strobe on the cards would make them stand out a bit.  Otherwise, nice job.”
2.  “DOUGLAS SLUGS LIVINGSTON”
Belinda Grant, The Record-Courier
“I don’t think that 2nd and 3rd place really fit into this section, but they are well made photos.”
3.  “MAKING MINDEN GROW”
Belinda Grant, The Record-Courier

Best Sports Photo
1.  “BAREBACK RIDER”
Horace Langford, Jr., Pahrump Valley Times
“Good facial expression.  Crop tighter.”
2.  “TIGERS SOAR OVER HAWKS”
Belinda Grant, The Record-Courier
“Nice moment and faces.  Crop tighter.”
3.  “FOR LOVE OF THE GAME”
Leila Navidi, Henderson Home News
“Nice photo that is away from the action.”

CLASS IV – SMALL WEEKLIES

General Excellence
1.  Boulder City News
“Nice and inviting layout.  Page flow well.  Clear and well defined opinion page.  Good features throughout.”
2.  Tonopah Times-Bonanza
“Out of the past column anchors the front page in each issue.  Very strong advertising presence.”
3.  The Humboldt Sun
“Spot news refers direct readers easily to topic of choice.  Broad community coverage.  Good use of picture pages in covering local events.”

Community Service
1.  “SCOOBY CREW”
Battle Mountain Bugle
“You did an excellent job of supporting a group who contributes greatly to your community.  Keep up the fun.”
2.  “URANIUM MEETING…”
Mason Valley News
“Good front page coverage.  Could be stronger with the support of editorials of equal strength.  Educational pieces would also add support.”

Best Spot News Story
1.  “DRUG BUST MADE AT LOVELOCK CHEVRON”
Beth Clifton, Lovelock Review-Miner
“Big news week at Lovelock Review-Miner!  Good, clean writing.  To the point.”
2.  “SS MAN FOUND DEAD AFTER ABDUCTING DAUGHTERS”
Keith Trout, Mason Valley News
“Strong story.  Needs spell check – 5th column, top.”
3.  “ELY JURY ACQUITS TEACHER”
Troy Daulton, Ely Times
“Good coverage of court news.”

Best Feature Story
1.  “GOLD POINT OF INTEREST
Heidi J. Bertolino, Tonopah Times-Bonanza
“A great job of telling a great story.  Writing style is feature appropriate and easy to follow.  Lead could be stronger, but conclusion is great.”
2.  “LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION”
Heather Rawlyk, Boulder City News
“A fun, easy read.  Good, strong quotes.  Some discrepancy in name spelling.”
3.  “MARSHALL WALKING TALL-FINALLY”
Heidi J. Bertolino, Tonopah Times-Bonanza
“A great people feature with a lot of emotion.  Conclusion really ties the whole article together.”
Honorable Mention:
“A CIVILIAN IN COMBAT”
Troy Daulton, Ely Times
“A nice way to handle a much done story.  Lead is sharp and quotes are strong.”

Best Business Coverage
1.  Lovelock Review-Miner
“The Review-Miner offers a broad view of area business including those emerging from government entities.”
2.  Mason Valley News
“The Mason Valley News covers government/business related topics well.”

Best Business News Story
1.  “HOSPITAL REPORTS LOSSES IN 2004”
Joshua Primack, Boulder City News
“Numbers are given a base to be compared to, which makes it more understandable.  Writing is clear and concise.”
2.  “SALE OF SENIOR HOUSING CORPORATION A WINDFALL FOR COMMUNITY”
Keith Trout, Mason Valley News
“Good use of detail and background information.  Story explains how it impacts the community.”
3.  “ASG MANUFACTURING EQUIPMENT BEING REMOVED”
Laura Tennant, Fernley Leader-Dayton Courier
“Informative and clear.  Good use of quotes and background information.”

Best Business Feature Story
1.  “DOWNTONW REACHES CAPACITY
Matt Lehky, Boulder City News
“Nice, tight writing style.  Strong quotes.  Good attention to AP style.”
2.  “LOCAL BUSINESS GARNERS STATE TOURISM AWARD”
Staff, Lovelock Review-Miner
“Crisply written, but could use some more development.  Some quotes could be paraphrased.”
3.  “MOUND HOUSE FOUNDRY BREAKS GROUND”
Laura Tennant, Fernley Leader-Dayton Courier
“Lots of information, but could have been presented in a more reader-friendly way.”

Best Explanatory Journalism
1.  “INSIDE YUCCA MOUNTAIN”
Heidi Bertolino, Tonopah Times-Bonanza
“Directing the national perspective to a local point always wins.”
2.  “UNINCORPORATED TOWN STATUS FOR DAYTON WILL BE ON BALLOT”
Keith Trout and Laura Tennant, Fernley Leader-Dayton Courier
“Strong lead.”
3.  ‘MULTI-AGE CLASSROOMS ENJOYED BY STUDENTS, TEACHERS”
Troy Daulton, Lovelock Review-Miner
“A difficult topic well reported.”

Best News Feature Story
1.  “STOLEN BABY JESUS HOME IN TIME FOR THE HOLIDAY”
Matt Lehky, Boulder City News
“The unique and rather odd incident provides an interesting news story.  Nice use of quotes and detail.”
2.  “DAYTON MARINE ONE OF REAGAN’S CASKET BEARERS”
Laura Tennant, Fernley Leader-Dayton Courier
“Good background information and nice local tie to a national event.  Writing is detailed and story flows nicely.”
3.  “WEST NILE WARNING”
Jennifer Mevissen, The Humboldt Sun
“Addresses the issue and provides useful detail for readers.”

Best Investigative or In-Depth Story
1.  “URANIUM/ANACONDA MINE SITE SERIES”
Patrick Abanathy and Keith Trout, Mason Valley News
“Good, dedicated reporting on an important subject.”

Best Local Column
1.  Dave Sanford, Mason Valley News
“Great writing.  Interesting – from the mind to the heart!”
2.  J. Carmen Kofoed, The Humboldt Sun
“Shows a lot of fun in life with an insight to the way her readers may live.”
3.  Laura Tennant, Fernley Leader-Dayton Courier

Best Local Non-Staff Column
1.  TIE
Jim Andersen, Battle Mountain Bugle
Bill Roberts, Tonopah Times-Bonanza
“Both intriguing, creative, brought tears to my eyes – AND thought provoking.”
2.  Terri Choate, Mason Valley News
“Good human interest and humor.”

Best Local Sports Story
1.  “RETURN ENGAGEMENT”
Tony Erquiaga, The Humboldt Sun
“Great job of reporting, getting different sources in your story.  Citing the economic impact makes this a front page story.”
2.  “SHERBURN ERA UNDERWAY”
David Gouger, The Humboldt Sun
“This could have been a boring game, but you found an excellent angle to take.  Getting the kids’ comment was a big plus, as was getting her thoughts on the future of the program.”
3.  “‘SAVIDGE VAULTS TO NEW HEIGHTS”
Robert Perea, Mason Valley News
“Very good job of getting into the head of the kid.  Thoughts from the coach and teammates would have strengthened the story.”

Best Local Sports Feature
1.  “NO LOOKING BACK”
Robert Perea, Fernley Leader-Dayton Courier
“Good job of getting into the story of an athlete who had to change his focus.”
2.  “FOOTBALL PLAYER SURVIVES MAJOR SPINAL INJURY”
Ray Brewer, Boulder City News
“These can tough stories to write, but you did well in sifting through the medical terminology and into getting the kid and his family to talk.”
3.  “FORMER PLAYERS STILL LOOK UP TO LOMMORI”
Robert Perea, Mason Valley News
“A good look at the life and far-reaching influence of a well-respected coach.  Great sourcing.”

Best Editorial Page
1.  Mason Valley News
“Good variety of content – easy read.  Well done.”
2.  Boulder City News
“Good choice of content.  Very easy reading.  Good letters placement.”
3.  Fernley Leader-Dayton Courier
“Good content.  Layout a littler harder to read.”

Best Overall Design
1.  Boulder City News
“Demonstrates good artwork, flexibility and creativity.  Nice masthead.”
2.  Mason Valley News
“Very consistent layout – user friendly for subscribers.”

Best Page One Design
1.  Boulder City News
“Good, strong large artwork, clean and easy to follow.”
2.  Tonopah Times-Bonanza
“Good masthead.  Clean layout.  Consistent design.”

Best Special Section – Editorial
1. “FALL 2004 SPORTS PREVIEW”
The Humboldt Sun
“Very nice balance of editorial to ad.  Each story has its own distinction with layout and photo selection.  Nice.”
2.  “MINING 2004”
Battle Mountain Bugle
“Good job in getting on the positive side of mining.”
3.  “SADDLE UP!”
Mason Valley News
“Good work utilizing past years photos and getting advertisers.”

Best Spot News Photo Coverage
1.  “WIND-AIDED ACCIDENT”
Laura Tennant, Fernley Leader-Dayton Courier
“The photo does a good job of showing the accident and what caused it.”
2.  “FACING THE INFERNO”
Scott Huntley, Mason Valley News
“The photo did a good job of giving a sense of how big the fire was compared to the firemen.  The bottom needed to be cropped off.”
3.  “SCAREY SITUATION”
Patrick Abanathy, Mason Valley News
“The photographer used layers effectively to show the tree and wrecked pickup.”

Best General News Photo
1. “PAYING TRIBUTE”
Leila Navidi, Boulder City News
“Well composed.  Light adds to somber mood.”
2.  “LIFT OFF”
Patrick Abanathy, Mason Valley News
“All of the hats are placed perfectly in this photo.  Well captured moment.  I would crop a little off of the bottom to clean it up.”
3.  “READY TO GO”
Patrick Abanathy, Mason Valley News
“Nice composition, but I would like to see some emotion.  There should’ve been plenty to be found at an event like this.”

Best Feature Photo
1.  “ZORB ATTACK!”
Leila Navidi, Boulder City News
“A nice funny moment.”
2.  “OFF AND RUNNING…”
Patrick Abanathy, Mason Valley News
“Good use of blurred motion.”
3.  “ALL ABOARD”
Leila Navidi, Boulder City News
“Composed well.”

Best Multiple Feature Photos
1.  “SPINNING WHEELS…”
Keith Trout, Patrick Abanathy and Robert Perea, Mason Valley News
“Too many photos, edit tighter.”
2.  “SPRING FLING FANDANGO”
Patrick Abanathy, David Roots and Keith Trout, Mason Valley News
“As above, some nice photos, that get lost with the weaker ones.”
3.  “LIGHTS CAMERA ACTION”
Leila Navidi, Boulder City News
“Nice photos, but a bit repetitive.”

Best Portrait
“I would encourage the photographers to be more creative.  Try to shoot the people doing what got them the award.  It might make a better photograph.”
1.  “PAYING TRIBUTE”
Laura Tennant, Fernley Leader-Dayton Courier
“The photo captures a nice quiet moment of a veteran paying his respects.”
2.  “ONLY GIRL SCOUTS REMAING IN LOVELOCK”
Beth Clifton, Lovelock Review-Miner
“Good job of photographing the girls with the cookies they sell.”
3.  “WAITING TO SEE THE DOCTORS”
Patrick Abanathy, Mason Valley News
“It’s cute.  The man and his dog look similar with their mustaches.”

Best Sports Photo
1.  “STUDENTS LOSE TO TEACHERS”
Leila Navidi, Boulder City News
“Best action of the category – good expressions behind action.”
2.  “UPENDED”
Tony Erquiaga, The Humboldt Sun
“Perfect moment – could be tighter.”
3.  “FLIP THROW”
Keith Trout, Mason Valley News
“Unusual shot.”

CLASS V – ALTERNATIVE NEWSPAPERS

General Excellence
1.  Reno News & Review
“High quality control from cover to cover.”
2.  Las Vegas CityLife
“Strong entertainment component.  Proper weight on opinion features – keeps readers interested.”
3.  Las Vegas Mercury
“Easy entertainment reference.”

Best Spot News Story
1.  “JUSTICE OBSERVED”
Damon Hodge, Las Vegas Weekly
“The objective of the story must have been to make the readers feel like they were really in the courtroom, and the reporter succeeded.  Great details, descriptions.”
2.  “SHATTERED SYSTEM”
Ryan Slattery, Las Vegas CityLife
“For being spot news, the amount and quality of information was outstanding.  Good job of presenting both the human side and the ‘nuts and bolts’ of the welfare and its deficiencies.”
3.  “GIVE ME SHELTER, IN DENIAL, MISSED IT BY THIS MUCH – AGAIN”
Andrew Kiraly, Newt Briggs and Geoff Schumacher, Las Vegas Mercury
“‘In Denial’ stood out in this package.  Excellent breadth of coverage of the entire election and great quotes.”

Best Feature Story
1.  “DUNGEONS AND MOUSE-DRAGGIN’”
Andrew Kiraly, Las Vegas Mercury
“A captivating story that was well-written and easy to follow.”
2.  “SUMMERS OFF?”
Damon Hodge, Las Vegas Weekly
“Easy to read, easy to follow and I loved the format.  Tick-tocking the time off really got the point across and kept my attention.  Wonderful job.”
3.  “THE LONG AND SHORT OF IT”
Newt Briggs, Las Vegas Mercury
“A gripping tale told exceptionally well.  Nice lead, nice flow and fun to read.”
Honorable Mention:
“SLOGAN’S RUN”
Newt Briggs, Las Vegas Mercury
“AND IN THIS CORNER”
Kevin Capp, Las Vegas CityLife
“Very different stories told in very different ways, but both well written and attention grabbing.”

Best Business News Story
1.  “GAS PRICE REALITY CHECK”
Dennis Myers, Reno News & Review

Best Business Feature Story
1.  “SLOGAN’S RUN – JEFF CANDIDO AND THE FIVE WORDS THAT REVITALIZED LAS VEGAS”
Newt Briggs, Las Vegas Mercury
“From the lead to the conclusion, this story is engaging.  Quality writing, interesting detail and an intriguing subject make this a wonderful article – a pleasure to read.”
2.  “WHERE DO WE GO FROM HERE?”
Don Vetter, Reno News & Review
“This article is abundant in detail – clear evidence of extensive reporting.  Informative, clear and engaging.”
3.  “MP3’S COMPANY”
Newt Briggs and Mike Prevatt, Las Vegas Mercury
“A new look at a heavily reported story.  Once again, Briggs displays quality writing.  Sidebars are useful, interesting and story package is in-depth coverage.”
Honorable Mention:
“THE ULTIMATE PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIP”
George Knapp, Las Vegas Mercury
“A very interesting story that is engaging.  Wonderful background information and good use of quotes.”

Best Explanatory Journalism
1.  “LOVE WILL TEAR US APART”
Stacy J. Willis, Las Vegas Weekly
“This story’s lead left a chill down my spine – very descriptive, powerful, effective.  It is explanatory journalism at its best – putting a face, a story to the statistic.  Bravo!”
2.  “THIS SCHOOL HOUSE ROCKS”
Damon Hodge, Las Vegas Weekly
“Quality writing and in-depth reporting prevail in this story.  It’s a wonderful display of writing that interests and informs the local audience.”
3.  “JUNK LAWSUITS”
Dennis Myers, Reno News & Review
“This story puts a new perspective on what many people have already made up their minds on and challenges journalists to work harder for truth.  Wonderful reporting, rich in writing.”
Honorable Mention:
“HOMES FOR THE HOMELESSS”
Kate Silver, Las Vegas Weekly
“This article paints a picture of the actual lives of homeless people and goes beyond the first layer.  Detailed reporting, powerful description.”

Best News Feature Story
1.  “THE ATTACK”
Damon Hodge, Las Vegas Weekly
“The graphic details of the attack are almost as jarring as how well the writer described the aftermath of the attack.  A complete look at this terrible event in jaw-dropping detail.”
2.  “BUTTERFLY EFFECT”
Emmily Bristol, Las Vegas CityLife
“You were able to captured the human tragedy and the legal aspect of this story and tie it all together.  Great reporting to obtain statistics and expert opinions.”
3.  “THE UNFRIENDLY SKIES”
Emmily Bristol, Las Vegas CityLife
“Good use of anecdotal and factual evidence.  Has lots of local and national relevance.  Use of multiple sources shows good, in-depth reporting.”
Honorable Mention:
“LEAVING THE COMSTOCK”
Diedre Pike, Reno News & Review
“A wealth of good reporting on a very under-reported issue.  Had both human impact, the numbers and what the future of the problem could hold.”

Best Investigative or In-Depth Story
1.  “THE CURSE AND THE CURE”
Newt Briggs, Las Vegas Mercury
“Well written, very interesting presentation.”
2.  “MURDER AT A JEWELRY STORE”
Kate Silver, Las Vegas Weekly
“Excellent account of a gripping experience and the aftermath.”
3.  “VEGAS AMSTERDAM”
Damon Hodge, Las Vegas Weekly
“Vivid portrayal.  Thoroughly illustrated theme.”

Best Local Column
1.  Geoff Schumacher, Las Vegas Mercury
“Writer show’s his readers another insight and carries a message to be considered.  Well done.”
2.  Matt O’Brien, Las Vegas CityLife
“Good invitation to readers to see inside their community.  Columns about the community were more interesting than non-community opinion.”

Best Local Non-Staff Column
1.  Joshua Ellis, Las Vegas CityLife
“A tell it like it is writer – he does not keep much in.  Hard hitter.  Good writing style.”
2.  Tod Goldberg, Las Vegas Mercury
“Great quality writing.  Good style.  Tod had a good handle on his style and subject matter.”
3.  Anne Kellogg, Las Vegas Weekly
“Fun column.  Good quality of writing.  Lack impact to me, but I did enjoy the content.”

Best Local Sports Feature
1.  “AND IN THIS CORNER…”
Kevin Capp, Las Vegas CityLife
“Great job of bringing home the lonely life of an ex-boxer.  You did well to get in with Banks and see where he lives and works.  Hopefully more people will think about what happens after the final bell, thanks to this story.”
Honorable Mention:
“BOXED IN”
Damon Hodge, Las Vegas Weekly
“A very revealing look at why so few fighters come out of Vegas.  Aside from penetrating the boxing bureaucracy (excellent work), some comment from the casinos would have been good (‘Why not host amateur boxing?).”

Best Entertainment Writing
1.  Martin Stein, Las Vegas Weekly
“Love the use of humor and youthful expressions.”
2.  Jessica Groach, Reno News & Review
“Enjoyable, straightforward approach.”
3.  Xania Woodman, Las Vegas Weekly
“Edgy and modern, wildly entertaining.”
Honorable Mention:
Tim Prentiss, Reno News & Review
“Enjoyed your work, lead-ins were terrific and body was concise and entertaining.”

Best Critical Writing
1.  Matt Kelemen, Las Vegas CityLife
“Good grasp of audience.  Nicely finished reviews.”
2.  Benjamin Spacek, Las Vegas Weekly
“Clear and concise work.  Well organized and presented.”
3.  Josh Bell, Las Vegas Weekly
“Clear and vibrant.”

Best Overall Design
1.  Las Vegas Weekly
“Striking covers (slick paper is an advantage).  Well-organized and consistent.  Professional looking.  Good inside art/images.  Good use of white space.  Would pick this up over the others because it looks flashy and encourages tourists to pick it up.”
2.  Reno News & Review
“Overall design is appealing and consistent.  Great white space.  Covers are well-done.  Headlines are big and eye-catching but lack of subheads makes you work to figure out what the story is about. Calendar items handled well.”
3.  Las Vegas Mercury
“Really like the covers:  strong, simple, impacting.  Good organization and usually good use of white space.  Inside pages are thought-out well.  Could break up gray more with photos and breakouts.  Big gray section headers don’t help invite the reader.  Too clunky.”

Best Page One Design
1.  Las Vegas Weekly
“Good design and layout.  Great use of photos to draw readers interest.”
2.  Reno News & Review
“Great layout.  Great use of fonts.  Photos add to readers interest.”
3.  Las Vegas CityLife
“Good layout.  Photos lead story up front. They encourage readership.”

Best Page Designer
1.  Benjamen Purvis, Las Vegas Weekly
“Good use of color.  Eye-catching artwork.  Easy to follow.”
2.  David Jayne, Reno News & Review
“Good use of headlines as artwork.  Clean and easy to follow.  Good use of white space.”
3.  Bill Hughes, Las Vegas CityLife
“Strong artwork, simple pages.”

Best Special Section – Editorial
1.  “THE FORTH ANNUAL LITERARY ISSUE”
Las Vegas Mercury
“This is a great weekly tour guide.  Well done.  Coverage is well supported.  Good layout and design.”
2.  “BEST OF THE VALLEY”
Las Vegas CityLife
“You can learn a wide range of activities and players from the best lounge to the best homeless center – love it!”
3.  “BEST OF NORTHERN NEVADA”
Reno News & Review
“Good use of clipart to draw readers to stop and look.  Love the best fast hangover cure.”

Best Information Graphic
1.  “ROD STEWARD VS ROBIN ZANDER”
Wesley Gatbonton, Las Vegas Weekly
“Eye-catching art, good cross promotion.”
2.  “ISSUES THAT MATTER”
F. Andrew Taylor and Roger Naylor, Las Vegas Mercury
“Good way to draw attention to sporting event for non-football fans.”
3.  “STREET SMARTS”
F. Andrew Taylor, Las Vegas Mercury
“Good coverage, easy to follow maps.”

Best Illustration
1.  “CONFESSIONS OF AN EBAY OPIUM ADDICT”
Sandra Hoover, Reno News & Review
“Got it – right away.  The image sends the message right away, and it does it well.  It makes me relate and care.  Looks professional.  Clean and simple.”
2.  “THE PASSION OF THE MOVIES”
Michael Grimm, Reno News & Review
“Very interactive, busy-looking, but it works.  Fun to figure out who each character is – and it’s drawn well enough that you CAN figure out who they are.  Cat woman on the window a nice touch.  Creative.”
3.  “FOG OF WAR”
F. Andrew Taylor, Las Vegas Mercury
“Eye-catching and impacting.  It’s in-your-face, which is what catches your attention.  Like the artistic style.  A serious topic handled well in an illustration .  Hard to do.  Well done.”
Honorable Mention:
“COWTOWN TO BOOMTOWN”
F. Andrew Taylor, Las Vegas Mercury
“Just for the woman’s teeth!  Made me stop and look long enough that I had to mention it.  A new take on an often-spoofed image/painting.”

Best Spot News Photo Coverage
1.  “FALLING STARS”
Ronda Churchill, Las Vegas Mercury
“Great photo showing the crush of hopes and failure, good job by photographer of waiting for a good opportunity.”
2.  “SWEET SALVATION”
Bill Hughes, Las Vegas CityLife
“Good moment captured, with good composition, would have been first place, but headline and text on photo hurt the photo.”
3.  “IN DENIAL”
Christine H. Wetzel, Las Vegas Mercury
“Just good coverage of a heavily covered event.”
Honorable Mention:
“SHEPARD PROTEST”
Christine H. Wetzel, Las Vegas Mercury
“OK photo – of some protest, photo needs more emotion.”

Best General News Photo
1.  “LOVE IS IN THE AIR”
Bill Hughes, Las Vegas CityLife
“This photo would not have even placed, but the boy turned around at the right moment and the photographer caught his look during an unusual situation for the boy.”
2.  “PEACEFUL PATRIOTISM”
Bill Hughes, Las Vegas CityLife
“Just simply a touching moment played well.”
3.  “FAB-U-LOUS”
Bill Hughes, Las Vegas CityLife
“Good photo and good access to transsexual pageant.”
Honorable Mention:
“MAKING OF THE CANDIDATE”
David Calvert, Reno News & Review
“Good informational piece on candidate and campaign managers and consultants.  Unusual look at a different subject.”

Best Feature Photo
“The photographs in this category need to found moments, not staged or set up moments.”
1.  “VEGAS STEEL”
Bill Hughes, Las Vegas CityLife
“The photograph shows the energy of the band and the heat and sweat too.”
2.  “THIS MAGIC MOMENT
David Robert, Reno News & Review
“The flying paper makes the photo light and fun.  It should have been played bigger.”
3.  “PLAYBOY FASHION SHOW”
Bill Hughes, Las Vegas CityLife
“Better reactions by the crowd would have made for a stronger photo.”

Best Multiple Feature Photos
1.  “THE READING ISSUE”
Benjamen Purvis, Las Vegas Weekly
“Wildly creative and well executed images.  Funny, clever, just perfect!  Photographer knows his way around the studio.  Superb skills.”
2.  “NIGHT CLUB”
Bill Hughes, Las Vegas CityLife
“Fun images.  Nice use of light to capture mood and energy.  I would drop some of the weaker photos, like the one of the guys mugging for the camera (page 26).”
3.  “ROAD TO RECOVERY”
Bill Hughes, Las Vegas CityLife
“Nice story.  I would like to learn more about her life and the problems she faces.  Spent too little time with the subject.”
Honorable Mention:
“THE PERVZ”
Benjamen Purvis, Las Vegas Weekly
“More funny and clever work from this photographer.  He will have a brilliant career in magazine work someday.  Fantastic stuff!”

Best Portrait
1.  “SERIOUSLY”
Benjamen Purvis, Las Vegas Weekly
“Very funny spoof on the Vanity Fair/Bill Clinton cover.  Well done!”
2.  “WHEN SEX ISN’T SEXY”
Benjamen Purvis, Las Vegas Weekly
“Difficult subject handled with taste and class.”
3.  “ART IN YOUR FACE”
Bill Hughes, Las Vegas CityLife
“Creative photo of an artist who is probably edgy.  Nice insight into the subject and well lit.”

Best Illustrated Photo
1.  “THE READING IS SUE”
Benjamen Purvis, Las Vegas Weekly
“The illustration is simple, making it a quick a read.”
2.  “THEY SEE DEAD PEOPLE”
Benjamen Purvis, Las Vegas Weekly
“The illustration is a little text heavy.  The eye wonders too much.”
3.  “SLEIGHT OF HAND”
Bill Hughes, Las Vegas CityLife
“Nice use of color, but it’s a little hard to read that a man has been cut in two.”

Best Sports Photo
1.  “CROSS-COUNTRY SKATE-SKIING”
David Robert, Reno News & Review
“Well executed photo.  Nice use of light.”
2.  “FIGHTER”
Bill Hughes, Las Vegas CityLife
“Good action.”
3.  “CLAIM JUMPERS”
David Robert, Reno News & Review
“Good expression.”

Best Headline Writing – All Dailies
1.  James Barger, Las Vegas Sun
“Great one liners – catchy.  I love ‘Hoosier Daddy.’”
2.  Tim Parsons, Tahoe Daily Tribune
“Tim’s headlines draws interest and makes the reader want to see ‘what is this about.’”
3. Jeff Gifford, Reno Gazette-Journal
“Good one liners – great lead to story.”
Honorable Mention:
Maria Dias, Reno Gazette-Journal
“Good headlines that lead well into story content.”

Best Headline Writing – All Weeklies
1.  Steve Bornfeld, Las Vegas Weekly
“A promise of a good read.”
2.  Josh Bell, Las Vegas Weekly
“Tight.”
3.  Andrew Kiraly, Las Vegas Mercury
“Pithy.”

ADVERTISING AWARDS – ALL DAILIES

Best Large-Space Ad
1.  “‘WOOF’ WE’RE ON IT”
Mike Miller and Julie Meyer, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“Great creativity and art work.  Good headline.  Catches your attention.  Great use of open space.”
2.  “CLIENTLOGIC IS EXPANDING”
Wesley Cortes, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“Very creative in design.  Goes well with client’s logo to project an image.  Good headline gets to the point.  Good use of color.”
3.  “REBATE-A-SAURUS”
Staff, Lahontan Valley News
“Great headline.  Artwork jumps out at you.  Might overpower a bit, but gets your attention.  Great creative angle.  Good headline and message.”
Honorable Mention:
“GIFTS FOR GIVING”
Terri DeLaRosby, Reno Gazette-Journal
“Nice design, good use of color and color photos.  Trendy, alluring, eye-catching.”

Best Black-and-White Ad
1.  “MALIBU CHAN’S”
Olivia Kuntz, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“Great eye-catching design draws attention to center of ad and photos entice.  Copy is straightforward.  Ad is not cluttered.”
2.  “BIG SALE – WILLIAM FURS”
Robert Woodward, Reno Gazette-Journal
“Good design and use of photos.  Headline gets your attention and gives the reader a benefit right away.  Good layout.”
3.  “CUCINA IS BACK”
Kathy Webb, Reno Gazette-Journal
“Nice use of white space draws the eye.  Simple and elegant lines.  Headline draws your attention.  Photo is clear and does not overpower the ad.”
Honorable Mention:
“EXCEPTIONAL DENISTRY”
Olivia Kuntz, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“Good design nice catchy headline.  Photos are excellent.  Copy does not overpower.  Looks more like an ad for a lawyer or investment banker or advisor.”

Best Spot Color Ad
1.  “ELDORADO CASINO”
Sheila Pollet, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“Good headline draws attention.  Photo adds excitement.  Good use of color variation through screens.  Nice eye-catching border.”
2.  “PUBLIC NOTICE-NO MORE TAXES (RENO KIA)”
Robert Woodward, Reno Gazette-Journal
“Good design – not too cluttered.  Nice color accents without being overdone.”

Best Multi-Color Ad
1.  “EAGLE WINDOWS”
Robert Woodward, Reno Gazette-Journal
“Simple – let the pictures speak for themselves.”
2.  “REMAX”
Mary Weaver and Diane Kneeland, Nevada Appeal
“Appealing artwork, strong headlines, clear message.”
3.  “DART DISCOUNT LIQUOR”
John Simon, Tahoe Daily Tribune
“Bold colors, bright images.”
Honorable Mention:
”URBAN TRENDS”
Mary Weaver and Rikki Glass, Nevada Appeal
“Eye-catching graphic.”

Best Special Section – Advertising
1.  “SOUTH LAKE TAHOE VISITORS GUIDE”
Tahoe Daily Tribune
“Seems like a truly comprehensive and useful piece.  Nicely designed in terms of graphics, art and photos.  Should appeal to readers – so it should appeal to advertisers.”
2.  “RENO 2004 – OFFICIAL PROGRAM”
Nevada Appeal
“Colorful and appealing to readers.  Nice balloon facts for users.  Makes good use of a beautiful event.”
3.  “NFR”
Las Vegas Review-Journal
“Great biographical information for readers.  Easy to use.  Nice color and photography.  Good advertiser support.”
Honorable Mention:
“UAW – DAIMLER CHRYSLER 400”
Las Vegas Review-Journal
“Colorful with nice photography and graphics.  Well supported by advertisers; also generally tie in nicely with theme.”

Best In-House Advertising Promotion
1.  “TESTIMONIALS AND FLYERS”
Mike Miller and Jim Decker, Las Vegas Review-Journal
“Strong headline, use of color, consistent message.  Good cross promotion with flyers.”
2.  “APPEALING TO YOU EVERYDAY”
Kent Hummel, Nevada Appeal
“Very strong, clear message.  Good use of black and white image with color accents.”
3.  “VIP TESTIMONIAL”
Kent Hummel, Nevada Appeal
“Good use of authoritative testimonials – make the testimonial carry weight.”

Advertising General Excellence
1.  Lahontan Valley News
“Clear messages throughout advertising.  Clean copy.”
2.  Tahoe Daily Tribune
“Good use of color in ads.”
3.  Reno Gazette-Journal
“Call to action consistently stands out.  People know what ads are selling right away.”

ADVERTISING AWARDS – ALL WEEKLIES

Best Large-Space Ad
1.  “GRAPE STOMP”
Ollie Williams, Pahrump Valley Times
“Good use of artwork, open layout.”
2.  “BOULDER CITY FITNESS”
Donna O’Callaghan, Boulder City News
“Strong headline and photo, clean message.”
3.  “AMAZING ANIMALS”
Ollie Williams, Pahrump Valley Times
“Great photo, draws you in.”

Best Black-and-White Ad
1.  “BOULDER CITY FITNESS”
Donna O’Callaghan, Boulder City News
“Headline and graphics are great.  Simple message, not too much text.”
2.  “TREE SALE”
Heather Adams, Pahrump Valley Times
“Simple and to the point.  No unnecessary information or graphics.”
3.  “HONOR AND DUTY”
Rosalind Ellifritz and Shelly Gerhard, The Humboldt Sun
“Clear message.  Classy and simple.”
Honorable Mention:
“BIG SCREEN FOOTBALL”
Lauren Shearer and Rebecca Kinelski, Tahoe World
“Great graphic.”

Best Spot Color Ad
1.  “LIVE MAIN LOBSTER”
Adele Hoppe, The Record-Courier
“No guessing what this ad is about.  Any one looking for lobster will find it with this ad.”
2.  “CONFUSED WITH CELLULAR?”
Dawn Archie and Chris Doherty, Reno News & Review
“Nice large headline – quick glance shows you what this ad is for.”
3.  “FRESH FUDGE, NO GUILT”
Mark Martens, Marianne Mancina and Samantha Cid, Reno News & Review
“Great headline!”
Honorable Mention:
“FRESH IDEAS”
Chris Olesen and Adele Hoppe, The Record-Courier
“Clean, simple color.”

Best Multi-Color Ad
1.  “TOPAZ LODGE”
Chris Olesen, The Record-Courier
“Simple clean color that really stands out with a clear message.”
2.  “BIG FISH”
Heidi Roessel and Travis Ambrose, North Lake Tahoe Bonanza
“Great color combination.  Easy to read.”
3.  “ARTS IN BLOOM”
John Murphy and Marianne Mancina, Reno News & Review
“Great use of colors.”
Honorable Mention:
”PIPER’S PATISSERIE”
Eva Lipson, Sierra Sun
“Clean and classy.”

Best Special Section – Advertising
1.  “ALMANAC”
North Lake Tahoe Bonanza
“Why not?  It has it all.  Great content, clear and direct message, great print job on quality paper.”
2.    “ALMANAC”
The Record-Courier
“Chambers of Commerce nationwide will want to copy this.”
Honorable Mention:
“FALLON 19TH ANNUAL HEARTS OF GOLD CANTALOUPE”
Fallon Star Press
“Excellent job covering county fair event.”

Best In-House Advertising Promotion
1.  “PICK ME UP I’M FREE”
Wendy Mason, Sierra Sun
“In-depth ad campaign with a simple, clear message.”
2.  “PIRATE’S PIZZA TESTIMONIAL”
Andrea Díaz-Vaughn, Reno News & Review
“Great use of testimonial – consistent ad campaign.”
3.  “ARE YOU READY”
J. Carmen Kofoed, The Humboldt Sun
“Good way to appeal to readers without selling anything.”
Honorable Mention:
“ASCEND TO NEW HEIGHTS”
Anne Pershing, Fallon Star Press
“Strong image, simple message.”

Advertising General Excellence
1.  Reno News & Review
“Overall ads seemed clean and consistent throughout all sample issues.  Good overall design and use of color.  Refreshing.”
2.  The Record-Courier
“Good consistency throughout.  Good use of space and good overall creativity.”
3.  Tahoe World
“Powerful large ads.  Good use of color.  Good creative flow.”

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