2019 VPA News and Advertising Contest

Feature Story Writing Portfolio ( Non-Daily Group 4)Back

  • Place Name: First Place
    Contestant Name: Chesterfield Observer
    Entry Title: “A changing lawnscape,” Sept. 25; “Up from slavery,” Feb. 27; “Queen of the Jungle,” Jan. 16
    Entry Credit: Rich Griset
    Judge Comment: This competition was extremely difficult to judge due to all of the great entries. But this one continued to stand out in my mind as I judged each entry. This writer tackled such an interesting variety of topics from slave trade history in Virginia to an in-depth dive into how America cares for its lawns. I enjoyed the colorful profile on the female wrestler. All together this feature portfolio is impressive. Well done!
  • Place Name: Second Place
    Contestant Name: The Virginia Gazette
    Entry Title: Playing softball, piloting ferries and hunting for apples
    Entry Credit: SaraRose Martin
    Judge Comment: This collection of stories is so wide ranging and speaks to true feature writing. I felt as if I went on a journey through the community by learning about diverse members and apples, too! Great job.
  • Place Name: Third Place
    Contestant Name: Fauquier Times
    Entry Title: John Toler
    Entry Credit: John Toler
    Judge Comment: As a person who enjoys reading about true crime and history, I say well done to this author for using historical information to draw readers in and learn more about the history of their community. It is always interesting to me learn about life hundreds of years ago, especially the not so bright side of it. I especially enjoyed the story about the blind musician. It left me wanting to know more about his life and his family. Good job!