Place Name: First Place Contestant Name: The Prince William Times Entry Title: Becoming the data center capital of the world Entry Credit: Peter Cary Judge Comment: In all my years of judging journalism contests, I've never awarded a 10, but I came close in this case. Exhaustively reported, thoroughly researched, extremely well sourced and written with the unquestioned authority of a reporter who has mastered the beat, this is one of the finest series of articles I've ever read. Well done, and thank you for your service to your community.
Place Name: Second Place Contestant Name: Loudoun Now Entry Title: Silver Ridge Home Explosion Entry Credit: Hanna Pampaloni, Norman K. Styer, Douglas Graham, Alexis Gustin Judge Comment: Thorough, wide-ranging and empathetic coverage of a community tragedy. The minute-by-minute reconstruction of events using firefighter radio transmissions was especially effective. Fine reporting and photography by a strong staff of journalists.
Place Name: Third Place Contestant Name: The Prince William Times Entry Title: Tracking the case: Missing woman's husband is charged with murder without a body Entry Credit: Cher Muzyk Judge Comment: Excellent serial coverage of a highly charged criminal case with numerous legal and forensic twists and turns and strong community interest.
Competition Comment: Journalists are notorious for their short attention spans, but the entries in this category are the exception that proves the rule. It was heartening to see so many bulldog reporters sink their teeth into a juicy story and refuse to let go until it had completely run its course. This category was stuffed to overflowing with high-quality work, making it excruciatingly hard to pick the winners. My congratulations to everyone who entered the general news writing category. Virginia is in good hands with this crew.
