Place Name: First Place Contestant Name: InsideNoVa/Prince William Entry Title: From the Publisher Entry Credit: Bruce Potter Judge Comment: Informative articles, easy to read, especially in the middle of the night. While they are local to the VA area, they are interesting for anyone across the country. Issues that could happen anywhere. Bruce Potter has his attention on the pulse of his community. 1st Place
Place Name: Second Place Contestant Name: InsideNoVa/Prince William Entry Title: Journeys to NOVA Entry Credit: Sophia Sexton Judge Comment: 2nd place - These stories are definitely relative to our current events, probably more so now as to when Sophia Sexton wrote them in 2024. The columns demand attention but not in an arrogant manner. These are the stories Americans need to be reading to better understand immigration and how so many people are affected. I was left wanting to know if any of them have achieved U.S. citizenship status or are in the process of obtaining it. Your personal columns are worthy of the space, and the time you invest in writing them.
Place Name: Third Place Contestant Name: Alexandria Gazette Packet Entry Title: Theismann - Legends of Alexandria Entry Credit: Jeanne Theismann Judge Comment: 3rd place - An extremely elegant way to present spotlight stories. Each story was informative and well presented. Good solid writing by Jeanne Theismann highlighting a lifetime of achievements by each individual. I would have liked to have seen a bit more diversity in the package, for example, a female profile. The first two stories were so similar but showed the connection of the package too. Definitely enjoyed the nugget about the microwave carousel; and in another the Apothecary Museum)
Competition Comment: Excellent entries submitted by all writers. Inside NoVA has a strong journalism staff, well produced work.
Other writers, no matter what size publication they work for, should take note and read these pieces and more.
Each one of these are ideas that can be molded to work within communities whether it's daily, non-daily or weekly publications.
Journeys to NOVA by Sophia Sexton is relevant, focusing on the more personal aspect of immigration struggles. Her subjects are definitely the kind of Americans we need.
The Alexandria Gazette Packet feature spotlights on Living Legends helps call attention to those individuals that can be found anywhere and shouldn't be forgotten.
This package overall was one of the easier ones I have ever judged. Also a testament to why our communities need newspaper publications to thrive. Feel free to use my comments when you share your good news after the awards! You all have earned the right to brag.
