Place Name: First Place Contestant Name: Richmond Times-Dispatch Entry Title: Gov. Ralph Northam blackface scandal Entry Credit: Andrew Cain, Patrick Wilson, Jeff Schapiro, Mel Leonor, John Ramsey, Michael Martz Judge Comment: This series of stories generates a comprehensive look at not only the facts and fervor surrounding multiple scandals evolving at the same time, but also addresses the nuances and historical impact of racism embedded in the communities and state.
Place Name: Second Place Contestant Name: The Roanoke Times Entry Title: Hammack General News Writing Entry Credit: Laurence Hammack Judge Comment: This series of stories clearly and concisely explains the varying players in the pipeline drama and explains the significance of the particular metrics used to determine need in the community. The story from the tree-sitters' perspective was also a nice addition others might not have deemed as important of a story to tell.
Place Name: Third Place Contestant Name: The Virginian-Pilot Entry Title: Virginia Beach mass shooting Entry Credit: Staff Judge Comment: This series was handled with sensitivity and addressed the many ripples within a community after a tragedy of this scale.
