Place Name: First Place Contestant Name: Suffolk Living Entry Title: Mulletteer Entry Credit: Avery Goodstine Judge Comment: This engaging and vividly written feature combines personality with strong reporting. The writer brings a colorful subject to life through well-chosen details and an effective narrative voice that keeps the reader interested from beginning to end. The story moves smoothly and balances human interest with clear background information about the food and the business. A lively and memorable piece that stands out for both writing quality and storytelling.
Place Name: Second Place Contestant Name: Ashburn Magazine Entry Title: Rise of the Robots Entry Credit: Chris Wadsworth Judge Comment: This interesting and well-reported story explores a timely trend in the restaurant industry. The writer explains the technology clearly while also incorporating the experiences of local diners and restaurant owners, giving the piece a strong sense of place. The structure is logical and easy to follow, and the writing is clear and informative throughout. A solid feature that combines useful reporting with an engaging subject.
Place Name: Third Place Contestant Name: Richmond magazine Entry Title: Built To Last Entry Credit: Eileen Mellon Judge Comment: This warmly written feature captures the character and history of a longtime neighborhood establishment. The writer uses appealing descriptive details and quotations to convey the sense of community that has sustained the business over the years. The story is well organized and provides useful background while maintaining a pleasant narrative flow. An enjoyable piece that effectively highlights a local institution.
