Place Name: First Place Contestant Name: The Virginian-Pilot Entry Title: We tried 50 old-school burgers all over Hampton Roads. Here are the best Entry Credit: Matthew Khorfage Judge Comment: Choosing the top burger is a fun read, descriptive comments about each of the top 10 are well written. The writing is crisp and varied. ... The review of the KFC Chicken & Donuts sandwich is great, with descriptive comments such as "And when you are done eating, the glaze and grease of the doughnuts will remain in your throat. It will cover your hands and your lips and possibly the tip of your nose."
Place Name: Second Place Contestant Name: The Virginian-Pilot Entry Title: Jay-Z at Something in the Water caps a glorious day Entry Credit: Amy Poulter, Mike Holtzclaw Judge Comment: Captures the essence of the concert festival -- the performers, their music, the setting, the voices of those who were there.
Place Name: Third Place Contestant Name: The Washington Times Entry Title: Claire Hopley Book Reviews – Fraught lives and an animate piano; Homeowner expectations on a street called Lowland Way; Personalities that shaped 20th-century China Entry Credit: Claire Hopley Judge Comment: Very well done, weaving the commentary into each book's story.