2007 S.C. Press Association News Contest Winners

Reid Montgomery

FREEDOM OF INFORMATION AWARD

Daily Division

Buying time in today’s financially strapped newspaper newsrooms for important watchdog journalism is a real test of editorial character and perseverance. And this year, the South Carolina Press Association is fortunate to have had two newspapers that rose above these challenges to produce government access projects that, even in the best of financial times, would be winners. The Charleston Post and Courier and The State in Columbia are to be commended for their FOI savvy, their determination and the results each garnered from lengthy efforts to give readers important information. Charleston’s Tony Bartelme and Glenn Smith pursued the whys and why nots of the Sofa Super Store fire that made national headlines when nine firefighters died. Columbia’s Sammy Fretwell bucked bureaucratic stonewalling from the state

Daily Division

Ron Menchaca, The Post and Courier.

Menchaca is far and away the best writer in this contest. His narrative is compelling, stories are thought-provoking. Glad to see S.C. Legislature take up the school bus issue and to know they overrode the Governor’s veto. Way to go!

Ron Menchaca began his career at The Post and Courier in 1998 as a newsroom clerk and has covered a variety of beats, including Berkeley County government, the Charleston waterfront and higher education. He currently covers general assignments and special projects and manages the newspaper’s internship program for journalism students at the College of Charleston.

Menchaca, 35, has received numerous reporting awards, including an investigative reporting prize from the National Headliner Awards and the South Carolina Press Association’s Judson Chapman Award, Reid Montgomery FOIA Award and Public Service Award. A series Menchaca co-wrote

about the state’s failing school bus fleet was named in August as a public service finalist by the Associated Press Managing Editors. He recently shared a first place award for team deadline reporting from the American Society of Newspaper Editors for the newspaper’s coverage of the fatal Sofa Super Store fire.

Menchaca was born and raised in the Pacific Northwest. He served as a paratrooper in the U.S. Army’s 82nd Airborne Division before graduating with honors from the College of Charleston in August 1998. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Communication/Media Studies. He and his wife, Amy, live in Summerville with their two children, Ren, 7, and Karrigan, 4.

Daily Division

Department of Health and Environmental Control and found out how the Barnwell County nuclear landfill had been polluting the environment with leaks and spills since it opened in 1971. Getting documents and comments for each of these groundbreaking FOI efforts proved challenging but these reporters were undaunted, and perhaps even more motivated, by the stonewalling. Their editors also deserve a pat on the back, maybe even a round of drinks, for weathering the financial pressures on their newsrooms to make sure important journalism keeps being done in South Carolina. The Greenville News and The Beaufort Gazette also deserve honorable mention for their commitment to maintaining courtroom access, and obtaining school financial information, respectively.

Weekly Division

Sandy Foster, Pickens County Courier. This journalist does a great job on a variety of stories. A great sampling of work.

Sandy Foster started her journalism career as editor of her high school newspaper. During that same time period she also worked at the local weekly, learning various aspects of the business. She went on to study Graphic Communications at the Clemson University and took a hiatus from journalism. Sandy returned to the business in 2001 and eventually became editor of the Pickens Sentinel. She was named weekly Journalist of the Year for 2004.

In early 2007, she was named managing editor of the Sentinel, Easley Progress and Powdersville Post. However, she left that position in June 2007 to help start the Pickens County Courier. She also returned to school in 2006 and has a 4.0 average

THANKS TO THE 2008 WINTER MEETING SPONSORS JOURNALISTS OF THE YEAR

The South Carolina Press Association and its members also thank The Morning News in Florence for printing this special publication. Special thanks are also given to the W. Va. Press Association for judging the 3,700+ entries. Production credit goes to James Denton.

through the online program at the University of Maryland University College. She lives in Easley and is married to Donnie Foster. They have two grown daughters and two grandchildren.

Named in honor of E.A. “Ned” Ramsaur, publisher of The Greenville News-Piedmont. Sponsored by The Greenville News.

All Daily First Place: Cindi Ross Scoppe, The State.

Meaty, but lively. No light weight topics here. But never fear, readers - you won’t get bored. Second Place: Bonnie Williams, Anderson Independent-Mail.

Third Place: Kyle Poplin, Bluffton Today.

Harris Award

All Weekly First Place: Barbara Rutledge, The Lancaster News.

Great locally oriented editorials on timely issues. Explains problems and offers potential solutions. Doesn’t just employ a hammer and pound away.

Second Place: Charles Rowland, Press & Standard.

Third Place: Leland Burch, The Greer Citizen.

DAILY DIVISION

News Headline Writing

First Place: Sam Gresock, The State. Grescock’s headlines are catchy and creative without being cliche.

Second Place: Beth Harrison, The Post and Courier.

Third Place: Elizabeth Anderson, The Greenville News.

Sports Headline Writing

First Place: Fred Rindge, The Post and Courier.

Wonderful headlines, clever and imaginable.

Second Place: Tim Thorsen, The Post and Courier.

Third Place: Merry Eccles and Craig McHugh, The State.

Spot News Reporting

First Place: Staff, The Greenville News, 7 fire victims identified.

Nicely presented update on a tragic beach-house fire, identifying the seven victims. Ron Barnett’s lead-in was nicely written. Overall, well done spot news coverage.

Second Place: Ron Barnett, Lindsay Edmonds, Lillia Callum-Penso and Richard Walton, The Greenville News, Twister rips Liberty.

Third Place: Kyle Stock and Jessica Johnson, The Post and Courier, Fallen angel.

Enterprise Reporting

First Place: Tony Bartelme, The Post and Courier, The forgotten combatant.

The reporter did a great job of putting a face on a man he was never allowed to interview. All the bases were covered in this story, including background on al-Marri and the case, information on the Charleston Naval Consolidated Brig and where the case is headed. A very good read; thorough without being too long.

Second Place: Glenn Smith and Ron Menchaca, The Post and Courier, Inside the fire.

Third Place: Prentiss Findlay, The Post and Courier, Homeless vet couldn’t shake cloud of gloom.

Lifestyle Feature Writing

First Place: Rob Young, The Post and Courier, Of father, son and... A ‘ribbeting’ story. Well done.

Second Place: Robin Cowie Nalepa, The State, Memories of a lifetime. Third Place: Joey Holleman, The State, Bat Girl.

Feature Writing

First Place: Glenn Smith, The Post and Courier, A solemn day.

This story was such a gripping read. Great writing on the aftermath of such a tragic fire. I had chills reading this piece. This is a well-written article about a fireman who survived the fire that killed nine of his friends and col-

& Over

leagues. We couldn’t stop reading this compelling story.

Second Place: Brian Hicks, The Post and Courier, Last (outdoor) picture show.

Third Place: Brian Hicks, The Post and Courier, Quest for dignity.

Profile Feature Writing or Story

First Place: Adam Beam, The State, Solicitor finds solace in court.

This was a truly remarkable story about a man who has overcome heartbreak that would shatter most ordinary mortals. Beam weaved in details that set his effort apart from the usual triumphover-adversity yarn. By the way, I realize S.C. over Clemson is a big deal, but it’s a shame such a great feature didn’t get better display.

Second Place: Rob Young, The Post and Courier, Arthur Crisp.

Third Place: Glenn Smith, The Post and Courier, Farrah’s biggest fan a local art icon.

Short Story

First Place: Katy Stech, The Post and Courier, Rescued from the flames.

The writer packs a lot of description into a few paragraphs. You hold your breath throughout the story of an unlikely rescue.

Second Place: Bo Petersen, The Post and Courier, Teen survives 60-foot plunge into pluff mud.

Third Place: Otis R. Taylor Jr., The State, Mania for wrestling.

Column Writing

First Place: Paul Hyde, The Greenville News.

Hyde does an excellent job with quickly making and supporting his point. Excellent leads, nicely wrapped up. The merits of gun ownership have been debated in a multitude of forums. Hyde has a personal experience - or three - that he uses well to help make his points. The column makes a lot of good points, mainly on the side of gun control, and they’re presented with clarity, sans emotion.

Second Place: Jeanne Brooks, The Greenville News.

Third Place: Bryce Donovan and Rob Young, The Post and Courier.

Series of Articles

First Place: Adam Beam and John Monk, The State, Drugs in South Carolina.

Beam and Monk go inside gang-related neighborhoods and spotlight how drugs are changing the landscape of South Carolina.

Second Place: Tony Barteleme and Doug Pardue, The Post and Courier, The Mercury Connection.

DAILY DIVISION

News Headline Writing

First Place: Dan Golden, The Sun News Very smart headlines. Work very nicely with stories.

Second Place: Beth Hutson, The Morning News.

Third Place: Joey Reistroffer, The HeraldJournal.

Sports Headline Writing

First Place: David Wetzel, The Sun News.

Second Place: Mike McCombs, The Herald-Journal.

Third Place: Rusty Boggs, Anderson Independent-Mail.

Spot News Reporting

First Place: Adam O’Daniel, The Herald, Fire destroys Columbia Avenue. Great lead and great job of making an ordinary house fire story into more than just that.

Second Place: Mike Cherney, Jonathan Tressler and Jason M. Rodriguez, The Sun News, Devastation in Ocean Isle.

Third Place: Matt Garfield, The Herald, Chester soldier.

26,001-80,000

Enterprise Reporting

First Place: Charmaine Smith-Miles, Anderson Independent-Mail, Feeling betrayed by a brother.

Enterprise reporting, at its best, localizes a bigger issue and tells the story of disenfranchised or marginalized characters. This piece, by Charmaine Smith-Miles did just that. America is just waking up to the toll that violence has taken on police officers, soldiers and others who stand in the line of fire on a daily basis. Smith-Miles’ story illuminated a growing problem in America with solid reporting and writing.

Second Place: Janet Blackmon Morgan, The Sun News, Fulfilling a duty.

Third Place: Robert W. Dalton, The Herald-Journal, The unmasking of Wild Bill.

Lifestyle Feature Writing

First Place: Samantha Harris, Anderson Independent-Mail, Grief beyond words. In a tasteful, skillful way, the writer makes

News Headline Writing

DAILY DIVISION Under 26,000

First Place: Hannah Carroll, The Island Packet.

Clever headlines that relate to the story.

Second Place: Elizabeth Farrell, The Island Packet.

Third Place: Jennifer Alliet, The Island Packet.

Sports Headline Writing

First Place: Travis Boland, Times and Democrat.

Good headlines that grab the readers attention. Good graphic presentation.

Second Place: Jeff Kidd, The Island Packet.

Third Place: Travis Boland, Times and Democrat.

Spot News Reporting

First Place: Ben Crites and Daniel Brownstein, The Island Packet, Gunmen kills 2, self.

Good job of presenting the facts and making the readers feel as if they are seeing the scene unfold. Eye-catching layout and art elements make it all the better.

Second Place: Staff, Beaufort Gazette, Blue Angels crash.

Third Place: Ken Bell, The Item, Woman killed in home.

Enterprise Reporting

First Place: Crystal Owens, The Item, Death matches are a vicious...and lucrative...activity.

The reporter offered a glimpse into the world of dog fighting through enterprise, explaining the blood sport industry. Readers learned that monetary penalties fight organizers face pale next to what is sometimes bet on a single fight dog during a match, and the sidebar gave voice to pit bull advocates. The basics were covered and the effort highlighted by factoids about the nationwide industry and the training practices these, and other, animals face.

Second Place: Lee Hendren, Times and Democrat, Animal shelter euthanasia investigation.

Third Place: Robert Baker, The Item, Bottle mania.

Lifestyle Feature Writing

First Place: Maureen Simpson, The Island Packet, Rolling with the punches. This girl’s got guts. A behind-the-scenes look at the rough and rowdy world of roller derby.

Second Place: Jenny Lim, The Island Packet, Robust obsession.

Third Place: Matt Wake, The Daily Journal, Who needs Hollywood?

Feature Writing

First Place: Tony Baughman, Aiken Standard, Living with ALS.

This is a fantastic story. I can feel Pamela’s struggle with the disease and the family’s frustration. Great description.

Second Place: Mike Rosier, The Index-Journal, A reunion 56 years in the waiting.

Third Place: Leslie Cantu, The Item, Human contact.

Profile Feature Writing or Story

First Place: Randy Burns, The Item, Yes, she can walk.

A heartwarming story with good details and flow. I couldn’t put it down. If just made me feel good. I especially liked Abbi’s own comments about her condition. Good that the writer thought to talk to her directly about it, despite her age.

Second Place: Tim Hager, Beaufort Gazette, Local detective business, Jack Green, PI, is a family affair.

Third Place: Tim Wood, Bluffton Today, Turtle lifeguards enjoy their job.

Short Story

First Place: Maureen Simpson, The Island Packet, The tooth fairy: Ms. Moneybags.

This was so much fun to read. Since everything else has gone up in price it’s understandable that the tooth fairy would too.

Second Place: Arek Sarkissian, Bluffton Today, Burton man pleads guilty to killing ex-girlfriend, unborn child.

Third Place: Erinn McGuire and Frank Morris, Bluffton Today, The real Super Bowl.

Column Writing

First Place: Joseph Sitarz, The IndexJournal, Accent on life.

One topic for all three columns - but a strong one. Anyone who has had a family member battling a serious illness can relate.

Second Place: David Lauderdale, The Island Packet.

Third Place: Gene Crider, Times and Democrat, In other words.

Series of Articles

First Place: Richard Brooks, Lolita Huckaby, Frank Morris, Jim McBee, Stephanie Ingersoll and Erinn McGuire, Bluffton Today, Shock wave: Bluffton.

This series examines a complicated, multifaceted phenomenon in an extremely clarifying manner. Hard data meshes with thoughtful, well-chosen profiles to give perspective and substance.

Second Place: Peter Frost and Daniel Brownstein, The Island Packet, Bluffton’s uncontrolled growth.

Third Place: Charlene Slaughter, Times and Democrat, A white school and a black school.

Reporting In-Depth

First Place: Times and Democrat Debate Team, Times and Democrat, Dem-

“A

ALL DAILIES DIVISION

News Special Edition or Section

First Place: Staff, The Sun News, Horizon 2007: A look at the economic future of our coast.

The entries in this category were diverse, but the scope of reporting and analysis on both the first and second place winners was incredible. The Sun News’ questions, local detail, and great cover made it a must-read piece. Congratulations to the staff.

Second Place: Staff, The State, How to win the S.C. primary.

Third Place: Staff, Anderson Independent-Mail, Anderson Almanac.

Sports Special Edition or Section

First Place: Staff, The Herald, Head games.

Great layout with witty ideas throughout. Not the biggest of the football tabs, but the best.

Second Place: Staff, The Herald-Journal, Collector’s items.

Third Place: Staff, The State, Signing Day: Where are they going?

Lifestyle/Feature

Special Edition or Section

First Place: Staff, The Daily Journal, Truly you.

The style of entries made this an apples to oranges category. The first and second place finishers were both outstanding and the difference was the ‘lifestyle’ theme, as compared to the news division, which was available. Both pieces are great, but one had to win. The third place winner might be the most useful guide ever produced for a reader taking the family to an event.

Second Place: Staff, The State, The bridge.

Third Place: Staff, Bluffton Today, MCAS Beaufort Air Show Guide.

Illustrations

First Place: Gary Kyle, The HeraldJournal, Drinking and driving.

Art graphic does an excellent job of selling and telling for this article about DUI. It creates just the right mood/ scene for the story that follows.

Second Place: Chris Mowder, The Sun News, Time to grow crop of football quarterbacks.

Third Place: Gill Guerry, The Post and Courier, Road names.

Critical Writing

First Place: Jason Foster, The Herald, Movie reviews.

These reviews tell me what I want to know - the nuts and bolts - right off the bat, and Jason isn’t afraid of honesty.

Second Place: Kathryn Smith, Anderson Independent-Mail, On books.

Third Place: Janet Kahler, The State, Eaton wright.

Photo Page Design

First Place: Amanda Criswell, The Sun News, Architecture.

Very powerful photography. Outstanding shots. A great mix of shots.

Second Place: Stacey Knapek, The Sun News, Trains.

Third Place: Staff, The State, Governor looks to the future.

Feature Headline Writing

First Place: Sam Gresock, The State. Cute. Something everyone will get.

Second Place: Bob Kinney, The Post and Courier.

Third Place: Lyndsey Mosley, Anderson Independent-Mail.

Entertainment Section

First Place: Jeff Vrabel, The Island Pack-

WEEKLY DIVISION

2/3 Times Weekly

News Headline Writing

First Place: Jenny Hartley, The Lancaster News.

The headline writer met all of the other criteria. Her headlines were accurate and appropriate. They were clever, often using a play on words, but without seeming tacky or cliche. The headlines fit the stories very well.

Second Place: Jamey Shepherd,The Lancaster News.

Third Place: Ryan Castle, The Journal Scene.

Sports Headline Writing

First Place: Travis Jenkins, The News & Reporter .

Great headlines, draw instant attention to the stories.

Second Place: Brantley Strickland, Press & Standard.

Third Place: Kelly Snow, Newberry Observer.

Spot News Reporting

First Place: Stephen Guilfoyle, The News & Reporter , Chester man killed in Iraq. Unfortunately, many communities have faced the news of a native son killed in Iraq or Afghanistan. But when Chester lost its first man, The News & Reporter really made the community understand a mother’s grief and the complexity of it all. No pat answers here.

Second Place: Jared Goyette, Press & Standard, Nightmare that’s real .

Third Place: Nancy F. Parsons, The News & Reporter, Great Falls Council fires town clerk.

Enterprise Reporting

First Place: Stephen Guilfoyle, The News & Reporter, House fires increase.

A nice example of expanding a ‘must do’ story into a ‘must read’ trend piece. Others should take note of how something small and simple can be expanded to good journalism.

Second Place: Lee Gray, Newberry Observer, Caught in the juggling act.

Third Place: Stephen Guilfoyle, The News & Reporter, LES students launch balloons for classmates.

Lifestyle

Feature Writing

First Place: Scott Powell, The Gaffney Ledger, Blacksburg’s Art Alive ministries. Excellent writing. Powell hooks the reader with a powerful lead, then crafts a wellresearched and thoughtful story about one woman’s mission to help children.

Second Place: Travis Jenkins, The News & Reporter, No more house calls: Dr. Halstead Stone passes.

Third Place: Marissa C. White, The News & Reporter, Chalk it up? Not anymore.

Feature Writing

First Place: Jim Faile, The Messenger, Trip on historic bomber offers glimpse of past.

Nice mix of then and now - a flight on a

World War II bomber, with some memories contributed by a veteran who one flew the plane. Good story.

Second Place: Joe L. Hughes II, The Gaffney Ledger, Crazy - Movie chronicles the life of legendary local musician.

Third Place: David Berman, The Journal Scene, Ape advocate finalist for Hero Award.

Profile Feature Writing or Story

First Place: Jared Goyette, Press & Standard, Defending the defenseless.

Jared Goyette’s crisp writing and effective use of quotes give readers a snapshot of Dave Matthews - his values, humility and purpose. This article is a service to readersgiving us a glimpse of what makes the public defender tick.

Second Place: Jenny Hartley, The Lancaster News, Sun City couple shares stories from their pasts.

Third Place: LaDonna Beeker, Chronicle - Independent, Funderburk balances Legislature, motherhood.

Short Story

First Place: Cindy Pitts, Newberry Observer, A hoppin’ mystery.

Very nice little story that I’m sure the community was interested to read.

Second Place: Jared Goyette, Press & Standard, Man works so others can rest in peace.

Third Place: Travis Jenkins, The News & Reporter, Watts honored again.

Column Writing

First Place: Barbara Rutledge, The Lancaster News.

Delightful reading and good column choices - all well written.

Second Place: Stephanie Jadrnicek, Press & Standard.

Third Place: Jim Tatum, Chronicle - Independent.

Series of Articles

First Place: Jenny Hartley, Jesef Williams, Jonathan Ryan and Jamey Shepherd, The Lancaster News, Gangs in Lancaster. Very interesting and informative. I’m sure the community appreciated the contents. Good cohesive graphics. Related stories and editorial enhanced package.

Second Place: Jim Tatum, Chronicle - Independent, A closer look at Lugoff

Third Place: Roger Lee, The Journal Scene, Recruiting wars.

Reporting In-Depth

First Place: Cindy Pitts, Newberry Observer, Reassessment/Taxes.

Great job of keeping readers informed and making sense of a complicated issue. Graphics and photos added to the package.

Second Place: Nancy F. Parsons, The News & Reporter, Great Falls clerk.

Spot News Reporting

First Place: April Silvaggio, Greenville Journal, Showdown at BJU.

Top notch coverage of a demonstration by gay activists at Bob Jones University. After reading all the crime and fire stories, this is the one that stood out to me and stuck in my mind. Very fair writing about the ‘culture wars,’ with real flashes of human reaction.

Second Place: Leighton Bell, The Link in Cheraw, Bank robbers nabbed.

Third Place: Jennifer Brown, The Clinton Chronicle, Clinton woman killed in carjacking in Kenya.

Enterprise Reporting

First Place: Elizabeth Bush, Daniel Island News, Dream melts away.

A great job following up on an easily forgotten story. I would think this resonates with many Daniel Island News readers.

Second Place: Kathy Ropp, Horry Independent. A shocking confession Third Place: Doug Dickerson, Berkeley Independent, The long road home.

Lifestyle Feature Writing

First Place: Nathaniel Cary, Tribune-

Times, Move over Emeril! Tanner’s back in the kitchen.

Nathaniel Cary writes in a consise, active style that carries the reader along on this fun, yet detailed story about a 10-year old’s culinary talents and drive. Very good writing.

Second Place: Kathleen McCracken, Horry Independent, If it’s more than a game to you.

Third Place: Cindy Landrum, Greenville Journal, Ridin’, ropin’ and religion.

Feature Writing

First Place: Wallace McBride, The Pageland Progressive-Journal, Drugs, technology have had impact.

Very interesting and tightly written piece about how the Pageland Police Department has changed since the early 1970s, with insightful comments that would apply to many towns.

Second Place: Patrick Wall, The Free Times, High fidelity.

Third Place: Lyn Riddle, Greenville Journal, The last dance.

WEEKLY DIVISION Under 4,000

Spot News Reporting

First Place: Michael Smith and Ettie Newlands, The Loris Scene, This is a major catastrophe.

This is fine coverage of a tornado that took eight lives. The story comes alive with a variety of people’s personal accounts.

Second Place: Bill Bengston, The Star, SLED calls fire ‘suspicious.’

Third Place: Brad McClam, Lake City News & Post, Fatal shooting follows wake.

Enterprise Reporting

First Place: Phyllis Britt, The Star, Swings come down.

The very definition of enterprise reporting. Britt took what could have been a brief and turned it into a wonderful read with good, balanced reporting.

Second Place: Michael Smith and Ettie Newlands, The Loris Scene, Could it happen here?

Third Place: Adrel S. Langley, Lake City News & Post, Lake City High tests...

Lifestyle Feature Writing

First Place: Gee Atkinson, Lee County Observer, Family turns anger into action.

Atkinson takes on a tough story and writes it very well. She exposes a deceptive member of an organ donation agency. More importantly, Atikinson writes one family’s drive to change laws so that patients and their loved ones are protected and respected.

Second Place: David L. Green, The Weekly Observer, Old-fashioned hobby goes hi-tech.

Third Place: Ettie Newlands, The Loris Scene, Cub Camp: Rising freshmen learn the ropes.

Feature Writing

First Place: William Buchheit, Spartanburg County News, Pitiless Pit.

An in-depth look at the world of dogfighting in the Spartanburg area and beyond. Very timely when written due to the Michael Vick case. Buchheit had several entries, but I felt this was the strongest and most high interest.

Second Place: Frank Johnson, The Citizen News, Unlocking the past.

Third Place: Jay King, Spartanburg County News, Solicitors, advocates seek justice for child victims of abuse.

Profile Feature Writing or

Story

First Place: Phyllis Britt, The Star, Profile - Annette Thomas.

Great story - mark of a true journalist - one who can bring out great stories in ordinary people.

Second Place: Elaine Ellison-Rider, News-Chronicle, Honea Path resident recalls 100 years of life.

Third Place: Gee Atkinson, Lee County Observer, A sweet life remembered.

Short Story

First Place: Cathy Gilbert, The Manning Times, Born on 7-7-07. This short story gives all the information in an enjoyable read.

Second Place: Billy Bingston, The Star, SUV takes a dive.

Third Place: Cathy Gilbert, The Manning Times, Manning girl is first to get.

Column Writing

First Place: Cathy Gilbert, The Manning Times.

By far, the best of the bunch. The columnist gets the reader involved and keeps the words flowing. Not too heavy, just well-written.

Second Place: Ettie Newlands, The Loris Scene. Third Place: Adrel S. Langley, Lake City News & Post.

Series of Articles

“Touchdown Catch,” Ken Ruinard, Anderson Independent-Mail, Second Place, Sports Action Photo, Daily 26,001 - 80,000.

First Place: William Buchheit, Spartanburg County News, Faith and Freedom. Clear winner. Three different aspects of the same trip show three unique stories. Also, very candid when some publications may shy away from such an overtly Christian subject/perspective. I enjoyed reading all three.

Second Place: Jay King, The Inman Times, Inman mills prove textiles.

Third Place: Phyllis Britt and Bill Bengston, The Star, Beyond 100.

Reporting In-Depth

First Place: Jay King, Spartanburg County News, Gowdy gives State Justice System failing grade.

Interesting subject that any newspapaer should take the time to explore. It’s obvious King put a lot of time and effort into this piece. Good job explaining loads of information and statistics.

Second Place: Jay King, The Inman Times, Deadly force.

Third Place: Michael Smith, The Loris Scene, Seacoast vs. Grand Strand.

Beat Reporting

First Place: Jay King, Chesnee Tribune, Crime.

Good solid reporting.

Second Place: Elaine Ellison-Rider, News-Chronicle, Police/crime.

Third Place: Jed Blackwell, The Inman Times, Sports.

OPEN TO ALL WEEKLIES

News Special Edition or Section

First Place: Staff, The Manning Times, Quasquicentennial editions.

In-depth coverage. Nice publication. Great news and historical value for new and established readers.

Second Place: Staff, The Messenger, Insight 2007.

Third Place: Staff, Lexington County Chronicle & The Dispatch News, 25th Anniversary.

Sports Special Edition or Section

First Place: Staff, Tribune-Times, Fall sports special.

There were some good football preview sections in this contest, but the reason I chose the Tribune-Times’ fall sports special is the added coverage of the other minor sports. It wasn’t just a short story and a coach’s mug for the minor sports, either. The stories were good and the photos were great, especially the cheerleading shot. Other entries might have had better writing, better headlines, better photos or better design, but as far as an overall package, none were better than this one. Good job!

Second Place: Staff, The Free Times, The Side Line.

Third Place: Staff, The Lancaster News, Football preview.

Lifestyle/Feature

Special Edition or Section

First Place: Staff, The Clinton Chronicle, From the front line.

Great graphic presentation - full of good stories. A real salute to service men and women.

Second Place: Staff, The Journal Scene, 10 Women to know.

Third Place: Staff, The Messenger, Seniors 2007.

Illustrations

First Place: Thom Glick, The Free Times, Dying on the vine.

I loved the illustration of the scarecrow hooked up to an I.V. Like every good illustration, it caught my attention and made me want to read the accompanying story.

Second Place: Mark Poutenis, The Free Times, The Master.

Third Place: Matt Mignanelli, The Free Times, Columbia’s biggest problems.

Critical Writing

First Place: William Buchheit, Spartanburg County News.

Buchheit’s reviews of the Elton John concert, Marty Stuart/John Anderson show and the Drive-by truckers concert gave the readers the feeling they were at the concerts, or even better, helped them relive the experience.

OPEN DIVISION

Judson Chapman Award

First Place: Claudia Smith Brinson, The State, Crossing a Great Divide.

Ambitious!

Second Place: Samantha Harris, Anderson Independent-Mail, Grief beyond words.

Third Place: Ron Menchaca and Mindy Hagen, The Post and Courier, School bus breakdown.

Copy Editor of the Year

First Place: Bob Kinney, The Post and Courier.

Sincere compliments about Kinney’s job performance. Daily events at the paper portray him as a copy desk grunt who really stands out.

Best Pictoral

First Place: Melissa Haneline, The Post and Courier, Spiderweb kids. Great perspective. Took a boring assignment and made it pop!

Second Place: C. Aluka Berry, The State, Bright lights, big sights.

Third Place: Michael Smith, The Loris Scene, Bog-off fireworks.

Humorous Photo

First Place: Jairy C. Hunter, The Journal Scene, Say what?

I immediately laughed aloud at a group of fans with a spelling problem.

Second Place: Ken Ruinard, Anderson Independent-Mail, Bumbling bee.

Third Place: Shellie Murdaugh, Hampton County Guardian, Playing possum stinks.

Cartoon or Humorous Illustration

First Place: Robert L. Ariail, The State.

I like each one; each is funny and relevanteven to an out-of-stater.

Second Place: Mike Beckom, NewsChronicle.

Third Place: Gary Kyle, The HeraldJournal.

Mixed Media Illustration

First Place: Matt Alsup, The Free Times, Mad Cash.

Clever and recognizable. People will ‘get it’ without even thinking. Very nice.

Second Place: Elizabeth M. Smith, The State, Ride ‘em Cowboy.

Third Place: Tom Robinette, The Island

Please See OPEN page 9

All Weeklies

Continued from page 6

Second Place: Lester Dented, The Pageland Progressive-Journal.

Third Place: Katie Sholler, LINK in Greenville.

Photo Page Design

First Place: Catherine Muccigrosso, Lake Wylie Pilot, Celebrating July 4th.

Very nice shots. Good use of several images.

Second Place: Cindy Ensminger, Daniel Island News, Independence Day.

Third Place: Ashley Hatcher, The Link in Cheraw, Festival Doubleheader.

Feature Headline Writing

First Place: Christine Sokoloski, Coastal Observer.

Great headlines. They do exactly what they should - grab the readers attention and make them want to know more.

Second Place: Catherine Muccigrosso, Lake Wylie Pilot.

Third Place: MNary Koehemann, TribuneTimes.

Sports Enterprise Reporting

First Place: Mac Banks, Fort Mill

Times, Inside Championship Week. His access allowed the reporter to give his readers an in-depth, behind the scenes look at the team’s state championship run. That set this entry apart from the others.

Second Place: Tom Didato, Chronicle - Independent, Trainers wary of development

Third Place: Suzanne Detar, Daniel Island News, Ultimate void filled at Etiwan Park.

Newspaper Web site

First Place: Pickens County Courier. The site is very appealing and easy to navigate. The content seems to cover the communities of Pickens County very well. The home page featured updated breaking news and an effective promo for the print edition.

Second Place: LINK in Greenville.

Third Place: The Lancaster News.

Best Photo Gallery on a Newspaper Web site

First Place: Coastal Observer, Mizero Children of Rwanda Dancers.

Over & Under 4,000 Weekly

News Headline Writing

First Place: Phyllis Britt, The Star.

This was a close contest, but Britt had it all.

Other contestants had clever headlines, and some had straightforward headlines that got straight to the point. Britt had a combination of both.

Second Place: Christine Sokoloski, Coastal Observer.

Third Place: Jane Alford, Carolina Gateway.

Sports Headline Writing

First Place: Mimi Maddock, The Columbia Star.

Cool and catchy headlines.

Second Place: Jim Rice, Tribune-Times.

Third Place: Mac Banks, Fort Mill Times.

Education Reporting

First Place: Cindy Landrum, Greenville Journal, Abuse of power.

It was close between first and second, but Landrum’s solid reporting and efficient writing style won out.

Second Place: Tim Callahan, Coastal Observer, Bullies.

COMBINED

Third Place: John Davis, The Pageland Progressive-Journal, Officials postpone.

Business Reporting

First Place: Elizabeth Bush, Daniel Island News.

The reporter draws readers into her stories with clever and punchy ledes. The stories are informative and interesting, and are augmented by empowerment data and sidebars.

Second Place: Michael Smith, The Loris Scene.

Third Place: Stratton Lawrence, The Charleston City Paper.

Sports Column Writing

First Place: Ron Aiken, The Free Times.

Second Place: Joel Fitzpatrick, The Greer Citizen.

Third Place: Naeem McFadden, Marion Star & Mullins Enterprise.

Page Design

First Place: Patricia Larson, Fort Mill Times, It’s your opinion.

Although it does have a self-promotional aspect, the design is fantastic.

Second Place: Anne VandenBerghe, LINK in Greenville, Drawing lines in the smoke.

Third Place: Lyn Riddle, Anderson Journal, Lights of hope.

Feature Page Design

First Place: Melissa Hall, LINK in Greenville. Good clean design with excellent use of typography.

Second Place: Suzanne Detar, Daniel Island News.

Third Place: Wallace McBride, The Pageland Progressive-Journal.

Sports Page Design

First Place: Cindy Ensminger, Daniel Island News, Down to dirty.

Designs feature strong dominant images and good typography.

Second Place: Melissa Oyler, Enquirer-Herald.

Third Place: Michael Smith, The Loris Scene.

Daily 26,001-80,000 & Under 26,000

Photo Illustration

First Place: Kristin Coker, Times and Demo-

crat, Down to one.

This illustration not only looks great, it tells the story. It is a strong image with great impact.

Second Place: Sefton Ipock, Anderson Independent-Mail, Pearls.

Third Place: Ken Ruinard, Anderson Independent-Mail, Strangled.

Best Online News Project

First Place: Times and Democrat, 2007 Presidential Debate.

Most diverse interactivity, detailed, organized and interactive with the public on personal levels of their opinions.

Second Place: The Sun News, The Men of the Rusty Rails.

Third Place: The Herald-Journal, The Chapman Cultural Center.

Best Integration of Print and Web Coverage

First Place: The Herald-Journal, Andrew’s Journey.

Andrew’s Journey had great print coverage, that was greatly enhanced by the Web

The Post and Courier, Third Place, Feature Photo, Daily Over 80,000.

All Weeklies

Continued from page 7

Excellent photo quality and detail. Good story telling.

Second Place: The Charleston City Paper, Charleston Firefighters Memorial Service.

Third Place: The News & Reporter, Soldier Logan Tinsley Comes Home.

Public Service for Weekly Newspapers

First Place: Jackie Broach, Coastal Observer, Capital Improvement Plan. The Coastal Observer and reporter Jackie Broach in the series of articles about Georgetown County’s Capital Improvement Plan performed a significant public service in a complete package of stories that kept readers very well informed on the progress of the improvement plan involving millions of dollars in taxpayer money.

Second Place: David Green, The Weekly Observer, Child abuse.

Third Place: Wallace McBride and staff, The Pageland Progressive-Journal, Relay for life.

Health Reporting

First Place: Tom Ratzloff, Daniel Island News, Island family lives with juvenile diabetes diagnosis.

Tom Ratzloff’s entry was a solid number one. He does a great job telling com-

plicated stories in a reader-friendly style we’re sure your readers appreciate.

Second Place: David Berman, The People-Sentinel, Nursing an issue. Third Place: Joe L. Hughes II, The Gaffney Ledger, Xanax addiction.

Photo Illustration

First Place: Tanya Ackerman, Coastal Observer, Bullies.

Great new look at an old problem. I love the kids showing empty pockets.

Second Place: Joey Benton, The Journal Scene, Goodwill.

Third Place: Hale McGranahan, The Greer Citizen, Skaters not welcomed.

Open

Continued from page 7

Packet, Brain game.

News Graphics

First Place: Ken Hawkins and Gill Guerry, The Post and Courier, Inside the fire. A great news graphic showing an important news event and how it unfolded. Good details with a simple drawing make it really effective.

Second Place: Ken Hawkins, The Post and Courier, Tall ships in the 21st century.

Third Place: Tommy Rollins, The State, Tradition.

Combined

Continued from page 8

coverage.

Second Place: The Sun News, Ocean Isle Beach Fire Coverage.

Third Place: The Morning News, Stadiums.

Best

Photo

Gallery

on a Newspaper Web site

First Place: The Sun News, Rusty Rails. Great story line and great photos.

Second Place: The Herald-Journal, Game Day.

Third Place: The Sun News, Surf-off.

No winners in: Best Online News Project and Best Integration of Print and Web Coverage (All Weekly, Daily Under 26,000, Daily 26,001-80,000 Combined).

ASSOCIATE

& INDIVIDUAL

Best Newspaper Publication

First Place, Daily Over 80,000: S.C. Department of Transportation, The Connector. Terrific writing and in-depth reporting overcame graphic limitations. Lots of good content shows hard work by the staff.

Second Place: University of South Carolina, The Times.

Third Place: Kershaw County Current.

Best Magazine or Special Publication

First Place: Coastal Carolina University, Coastal Carolina University Magazine.

Outstanding layout, striking covers, Afghanistan story and photos were excellent, dramatic use of photos.

Second Place: S.C. Farm Bureau Federation, S.C. Farmer.

Third Place: AAA of the Carolinas, Go.

AWARDS

Best Web site

First Place: University of South Carolina Publications, www.innovista.sc.edu.

This site has tons of useful information and links. It also keeps the public up-to-date on progress and recent developments.

Second Place: Coastal Carolina University, www.coastal.edu.

Third Place: S.C. Farm Bureau Federation, www.scfb.org.

Best Photograph

First Place: Lauren Formalarie, Stephanie Hutto, Tempo.

Timing, content and technical quality make this photo a winner.

Second Place: University of South Carolina Publications, Kim Truett, Carolinian.

Third Place: S.C. Farm Bureau Federation, Larry Kemmerling.

Daily Over 80

Continued from page 3

Third Place: Tony Barteleme, The Post and Courier, The China Effect.

Reporting In-Depth

First Place: Ron Menchaca, Glenn Smith, Tony Bartelme, Robert Behre, David Slade, Doug Pardue, The Post and Courier , Sofa Super Store Fire.

The Charleston paper’s probing coverage of this horrible tragedy will stand forever as an example of quality journalism. Second Place: Kyle Stock and Schuyler Kropf, The Post and Courier, Al Parish fraud.

Third Place: Tim Smith, The Greenville News, Transportation Department waste.

Beat Reporting

First Place: Noelle Phillips, The State, Immigration.

The reporter put a face to the immigration story. The ‘imported excitement’ story was a great read. Phillips took the reader right to the track. Great art enhanced the piece. I liked the Internet story as well - that story clearly gained national attention. Great attention to detail.

Second Place: Glenn Smith, The Post

Business Reporting

First Place: Jim DuPlessis, The State. The State’s Jim Duplessis raises the bar on business reporting with an approach we can all understand: the human touch. His explanation of business matters comes across loud and clear through the stories about the ‘real people,’ not little people, affected by them. His explanation of subjects as diverse as a $600 million facility being built by an Arab monarchy’s holding company to a dying textile mill town reinventing itself makes for a good read. Plain and simple. Duplessis knows the business of writing and people.

Second Place: Jason Ryan, The State, Third Place: Katy Stech, The Post and Courier.

Humor Column Writing

First Place: Frank Wooten, The Post and Courier.

In a strong field that featured silly and clever, Wooten took the first place with topical, timely and intelligent humor. All three finalists would be great additions to any newspaper.

Second Place: Greg Hardy, The State. Third Place: Bryce Donovan, The Post and Courier.

Public Service Award for Daily Newspapers

First Place: Staff, The Post and Courier, Sofa Super Store Fire.

Sports

Feature Story

First Place: Bob Gillespie, The State, Meeting heals old wounds. A gripping and touching story by a great writer. Bravo! Very nicely told story about two football players whose collision in a 1985 game left one paralyzed and the other scarred emotionally. Steps outside the box to tell both sides of the tragic story. Kudos to Bob Gillespie, who told it well.

Second Place: Gene Sapakoff, The Post and Courier, Major League comeback. Third Place: Kent Babb, The State, The healing game.

Sports Column Writing

First Place: Bart Wright, The Greenville News.

All of Mr. Wright’s work is not only very informative, but entertaining as well.

Second Place: Ron Morris, The State. Third Place: Gene Sapakoff, The Post and Courier.

Page One Design

First Place: Tim Chamberlin, The State.

Very bold. Designer just did it right. The way a page one truly should be. Outstanding.

Second Place: Bill Campling, The State. Third Place: Matt Winter and Chad Dunbar, The Post and Courier.

and Courier, Crime.

Third Place: Ben Szobody, The Greenville News, Local government.

Health Reporting

First Place: Jill Coley, The Post and Courier, Volunteer photographer created precious memories.

The five-story entry was solid with good reporting and writing. the totality of the effort lifted it to first place in a tough field. Nice job!

Second Place: Czerne M. Reid, The State, Aids in South Carolina.

Third Place: Liv Osby, The Greenville News, Desperate cancer patients.

Education Reporting

First Place: James T. Hammond, The State.

The top 4 were very close in quality and choosing between the top 2 was even more difficult. Hammond’s an excellent writer with great story ideas. His selections weren’t typical for the category but demonstrated how educational issues impact many facets of life. Great job!

Second Place: Anna Simon, The Greenville News.

Third Place: Ron Barnett, The Greenville News.

It appears The Post and Courier left no stone (or beam) unturned in its extensive coverage of the tragic fire in which nine firefighters died. In the aftermath, tough questions were asked of public officials and those charged with fire protection. Important information was presented and relevant issues raised. This was an important story to tell and it was told. Excellent public service journalism was achieved.

Second Place: Adam Beam and John Monk, The State, Drugs in South Carolina.

Third Place: Staff, The Greenville News, Transportation Department waste.

Spot Sports Story

First Place: Patrick Obley, The State, So bad, so long.

Very well written sports coverage story. Not only gives you all the facts, but entertains as well with humorous side.

Second Place: Philip Bowman, The Post and Courier, Fort Dorchester star.

Third Place: Tommy Braswell, The Post and Courier, Surreal life.

Sports Enterprise Reporting

First Place: Bill Henley, The Post and Courier, Having a ball.

Fantastic story idea. Great job by the reporter for the effort it took to pull it off. Nice writing - color, details, quotes, statistics. Awesome, awesome story.

Second Place: Kent Babb, The State, The tie that binds.

Third Place: Patrick Obley, The State, Unaltered state.

Page Design

First Place: Marcus Amaker, The Post and Courier.

Defying the genre. Classy and sharp presentation. Very nice.

Second Place: Staff, The State, May 24, 2007.

Third Place: Chad Dunbar, The Post and Courier, IAA 6-8-07.

Feature Page Design

First Place: Rodrigo Posada, The State. It’s a sweep! Winner stood out with 3 outstanding entries. Love the berry page. All very powerful.

Second Place: Bill Campling, The State. Third Place: Elizabeth M. Smith, The State.

Sports Page Design

First Place: Merry Eccles, The State. Unbelievably good. Levels above other entries. Very intriguing and interesting. Very open and clean. Wow.

Second Place: Craig McHugh, The State.

Third Place: Tim Thorsen, The Post and Courier.

JL Sims Memorial Award for Spot News Photo

First Place: Grace Beahm, The Post and Courier, Family lost.

Very dramatic, telling photo of family of fallen firefighter. Well composed, very sharp, captures the moment and the family’s sadness.

Daily Over 80

Continued from page 10

Second Place: Alan Hawes, The Post and Courier, Mud man.

Third Place: Tyrone Walker, The Post and Courier, A teary-eyed departure.

General News Photo

First Place: Brad Nettles, The Post and Courier, Heartbroken.

This is a rather incredible portrait of grief that poignantly conveys a family’s loss.

Second Place: Alan Hawes, The Post and Courier, Nine great heroes.

Third Place: Wade Spees, The Post and Courier, When it pours.

Feature Photo

First Place: Wade Spees, The Post and Courier, Goodbye.

First class image. Nicely composed, very sharp and well lighted. Topnotch work by a talented photographer.

Second Place: Tracy Glantz, The State, Carefree days.

Third Place: Melissa Haneline, The Post and Courier, I’m an American Idol.

Sports Action Photo

First Place: Alan Hawes, The Post and Courier, Bronco Rider.

It’s hard to tell whether the horse or the kid was more frantic. Great emotion-packed shot.

Second Place: Mic Smith, The Post and Courier, Basketball flop.

Third Place: Gerry Melendez, The State, Stiffed.

Sports Feature Photo

First Place: Bart Boatwright, The Greenville News, Off target.

This captures the game’s defining moment perfectly - the thrill of victory, the agony of defeat.

Second Place: Erik Campos, The State, Victory shout.

Third Place: Jeff Blake, The State, Disgusted.

Personality Photograph or Portrait

First Place: Mic Smith, The Post and Courier, Pray.

This shot at just the right instant really tells a story - and makes me want to read the story.

Second Place: C. Aluka Berry, The State, Deep talent.

Third Place: Tim Dominick, The State, Sen. John Drummond.

Photo Series or Photo Story

First Place: Staff, The Post and Courier, Sofa Super Store Fire.

Phenomenal photo coverage of a major news event. The photos cover the story from start to finish and provide the emotional impact of the story.

First Place: The State.

The State not only has highly effective design, but it also has the content to go into that design. Good to the point ledes work well to sell and tell the stories that follow each. Overall very strong writing.

GENERAL EXCELLENCE

FirstPlace: The Sun News.

Two extremely strong editions with good local content and great color and graphics. In a group of outstanding newspapers - The Sun News shines.

SecondPlace: Anderson Independent-Mail. ThirdPlace: The Morning News.

First Place: Press & Standard.

In the world of weekly newspapers, The Press and Standard stood out on several fronts. . . . Kudos for what you are able to do.

SecondPlace: The Messenger. ThirdPlace: Newberry Observer.

Spot News Reporting: Staff, The Greenville News.

Nicely presented update on a tragis beachhouse fire, identifying the seven victims. Overall, well done spot news coverage.

Feature Writing: Glenn Smith, The Post and Courier, A solemn day.

This story was such a gripping read. We couldn’t stop reading this compelling story.

Column Writing: Paul Hyde, The Greenville News.

Hyde does an excellent job with quickly making and supporting his point. Excellent

First Place: The People-Sentinel. Clearly outstanding in most categories, particularly in content, writing and layout. Editorial page and Lifestyles could use more punch. SecondPlace: Myrtle Beach Herald. ThirdPlace: Horry Independent.

BEST OF THE BEST

leads, nicely wrapped up.

Sports Feature Story: The State, Meeting heals old wounds.

A gripping and touching story by a great writer. Bravo!

Feature Photo: Wade Spees, The Post and Courier, Goodbye.

First class image. Nicely composed, very sharp and well lighted.

JL Sims Memorial Award for Spot News

Photo: The Post and Courier, Family lost.

Very dramatic, telling photo of family of fallen firefighter.

Page One Design: Taylor Smith, Press & Standard.

Great type. Strong photography. Looks better than most dailies. What a semi-weekly newspaper should be.

Newspaper Web site: Times and Democrat. Clean design. Easy to navigate. Not overwhelmed with ornamentation.

Sports Action Photo: Times and Democrat, Dog gone tough.

Very dramatic football action with the underdogs taking it to the favorites. Shot at night when a good exposure isn’t easy.

First Place: Beaufort Gazette. SecondPlace: Bluffton Today. ThirdPlace: The Island Packet.

FirstPlace: The Loris Scene. Good newspaper in contest, layout and design. SecondPlace: The Citizen News. ThirdPlace: The Manning Times.

Beat Reporting: Greg Hambrick, The Charleston City Paper.

Mr. Hambrick is an excellent and enjoyable writer. His topics might not be of global importance, but they are important to his readers. Series of Articles: Adam Beam and John Monk.

Beam and Monk go inside gang-related neighborhoods and spotlight how drugs are changing the

of South

are

but

Daily Over 80

Continued from page 11

Second Place: Gerry Melendez, The State, Crossing the Great Divide.

Third Place: Alan Hawes, The Post and Courier, Minimum wage.

Photo Illustration

First Place: Rodrigo Posada, The State, New Year weekend cover.

This illustration brings to mind a familiar New Year’s Day feeling. Great way to illustrate the party aftermath.

Second Place: Merry Eccles, The State, Unaltered state.

Third Place: Collin C. Chappelle, The Greenville News, Teaching and teens.

Newspaper Web site

First Place: The State, www.thestate. com.

Second Place: The Greenville News, www.greenvilleonline.com.

Third Place: The Post and Courier, www.charleston.net.

Best Online News Project

First Place: The Post and Courier, Sofa Super Store Fire.

Organized and intuitive site layout of multi media for the user. Variety of multi media.

Second Place: The State, S.C. at War.

Third Place: The Greenville News, Hiking the trail: Journeys along the Appalachian Trail.

Best Integration of Print and Web Coverage

First Place: The Post and Courier, Inside the fire.

Nice interactive map, good multimedia coverage on site, good layout organized, good print to Web integration.

Second Place: The Greenville News, Salee’s War.

Third Place: The State, Crossing a Great Divide.

Best Photo Gallery on a Newspaper Web site

First Place: The Post and Courier, Minimum Wage.

Very good story telling which matched flow of the photos. Very good photo quality. Organization and story telling were like a documentary.

Second Place: The State, Pearl’s Garden.

Third Place: The Greenville News, Clemson vs. Louisiana.

Daily 26,001-80

Continued from page3

her newspaper privy to an intimate private conversation. Very moving and thorough despite a pedestrian headline.

Second Place: Kim Kimzey, The HeraldJournal, Too young to forget.

Third Place: Jennifer Becknell, The Herald, Mental illness.

Feature Writing

First Place: Charles D. Perry, The Herald, Barbecue battle.

Great story. Good writing. Loved it.

Second Place: Jan A. Igoe, The Sun News, Families give safe havens to children.

Third Place: Charles D. Perry, The Herald, Staying happy in spite of the pain.

Profile Feature Writing or Story

First Place: Charles D. Perry, The Herald, Taking his dream by the horns.

Perry does a great job getting this charming eccentric to reveal what makes him tick. It’s a wonderfully amusing tale from beginning to end.

Second Place: Charmaine Smith-Miles, Anderson Independent-Mail, An honest day’s work.

Third Place: Emily Dagostino, The Herald-Journal, Boat person to surgeon.

Short Story

First Place: Adam O’Daniel, The Herald, Tractor trailers.

This was a fun, easy-to-read story that paints good images through its writing and has many sources - all in 500 words or less.

Second Place: Emily Dagostino, The Herald-Journal, Pollen.

Third Place: Lisa Fleisher, The Sun News, Teen closed eyes in 6-story fall.

Column Writing

First Place: Johanna D. Wilson, The Sun News.

What a wordsmith! Great writing and wonderful subjects. These columns were a pleasure to read and enjoy.

Second Place: Jeanne Malmgren, Anderson Independent-Mail.

Third Place: James Werrell, The Herald.

Series of Articles

First Place: Alison Newton, Crystal Boyles, Heidi Charalambous, Keith Farner, Jonathan Kay, Liz Carey and Eddie Bevens, Anderson Independent-Mail, Dropouts: A state at risk.

Comprehensive look at an issue vital to South Carolina’s future. ‘Shocking’ report about a huge problem.

Road,” David

Daily 26,001-80

Continued from page14

Second Place: Issac Bailey, The Sun News, Loved one lost.

Third Place: Jason Spencer, The HeraldJournal, Andrew’s Journey.

Reporting In-Depth

First Place: Charmaine Smith-Miles, Anderson Independent-Mail, Cop-killer trial. Reporter’s obviously firm grasp of the criminal justice system and all of its complexities showed through in this outstanding piece of work. She did a remarkable job of bringing the principals in the courtroom to life.

Second Place: Heidi Charalambous, Liz Carey, Charmaine Smith-Miles, Jeanne Malmgren and Samantha Harris, Anderson Independent-Mail, Toddler tragedy.

Third Place: Mike Cherney, Jonathan Tressler, Jason M. Rodriguez, David Wren, Steve Jones and Tonya Root, The Sun News, Ocean Isle Beach Fire.

Beat Reporting

First Place: Rachel Leonard, The HeraldJournal, Courts

This reporter’s verdict story is probably one of the cleanest, most succinct court stories I have ever read. Great job capturing the mood of the courtroom, the families and describing the crime without getting carried away. Great job by Alex Hicks with the photos - that helped too!

Second Place: Doug Staley, Anderson Independent-Mail, Local government.

Third Place: Alan Blondin, The Sun News, Golf.

Health Reporting

First Place: Emily Dagostino, The Herald-

Journal, Fat-dripping diet in South deadly. Emily Dagastino does a great job bringing tough topics to life with descriptive prose. Combined with solid design and artwork, her entries dominated in a category with a number of other outstanding writers. Well done!

Second Place: Jan A. Igoe, The Sun News, Life-altering condition.

Third Place: Samantha Harris, Anderson Independent-Mail, Be resolved.

Education Reporting

First Place: Liz Carey, Anderson Independent-Mail, Seeking winning solutions.

Great story ideas, solid writing and reporting made Liz Carey’s entry a clear-cut number one! Great job!

Second Place: Jessica Schonberg, The Herald, Rock Hill schools.

Third Place: Alison Newton, Anderson Independent-Mail, Start spreading the news.

Business Reporting

First Place: Charles D. Perry, The Herald. All three top finishers present complex topics of local interest with depth and clarity. Among three strong entries, Mr. Perry’s stood out because of his flair for wording. Tasty little turns of phrase pop up throughout - so that his stories are more than top-notch business policies, they’re often fun to read.

Second Place: Sean Flynn, The HeraldJournal.

Third Place: David Wren, The Sun News.

Humor Column Writing

First Place: James Werrell, The Herald. This column had the strongest beginning and most hilarious end of all. Well told!

ald-Journal, The decline of threesport athletes.

Sports Feature Story

First Place: Jason Gilmer, The Herald-Journal, When boys become Rebels.

Great story that makes you fell like you’re part of the team.

Second Place: Barry Byers, The Herald, Mon and No. 1 Fan.

Third Place: Jennifer Parker, The Sun News, Rollergirls.

Sports Column Writing

First Place: Sean Horgan, The Sun News. Incredible writing and story telling in each column.

Second Place: Jason Gilmer, The HeraldJournal.

Third Place: Gary McCann, The Herald.

Page One Design

First Place: Beth Hutson, The Morning News.

Presentation is always strong. Reader knows where to begin. The red state in the mast is distracting. Great photography.

Second Place: John Nielsen, The Herald. Third Place: Bevin Hutcheson, The Herald-Journal.

Page Design

Second Place: Lane Filler, The HeraldJournal.

Third Place: Andrew Dys, The Herald.

Public Service for Daily Newspapers

First Place: David Wren, The Sun News. Investigating Five Rivers Community Development Corporation The Sun News staff probed deep into the finances and work of a community development corporation that was misusing taxpayers’ funding. The paper delivered with ‘big time’ public service for the community, taxpayers and beneficiaries of the corporation. Impressive.

Second Place: Rachel E. Leonard, The Herald-Journal, Miss South Carolina Pagent.

Third Place: Liz Carey, Anderson Independent-Mail, Charity scandal.

Spot Sports Story

First Place: Eric Boynton, The HeraldJournal, No shame on Boo. Story makes you feel like you actually know the tourney winner.

Second Place: Gary McCann, The Herald, Funeral for a friend.

Third Place: Jonathan Kay, Anderson Independent-Mail, Bobcats make it 3 in a row.

Sports Enterprise Reporting

First Place: Jason Gilmer, The HeraldJournal, Off the top rope. Wow! What a fantastic series. It was headand-shoulders above the other entries. Great writing and reporting., The author has a bright future.

Second Place: Travis Sawchik, The Sun News, Time to grow.

Third Place: Jason Gilmer, The Her-

First Place: Ann Patterson, The HeraldJournal, Feb. 9, 2007. Great illustration gets the job done. Solid presentation. Easy to read.

Second Place: Kylie Yerka, Anderson Independent-Mail, Nov. 16, 2006.

Third Place: Chris Mowder, The Sun News, Feb. 19, 2007.

Feature Page Design

First Place: Stacey Knapek, The Sun News Clean, sharp and daring. Great use of white space and photography.

Second Place: Chris Mowder, The Sun News.

Third Place: Todd Money, The HeraldJournal.

Sports Page Design

First Place: Chris Mowder, The Sun News

Presentation is a level above the rest of the competition. I love the bubbles. Very sharp and smart.

Second Place: Mike McCombs, The Herald-Journal.

Third Place: Burke Noel, The Herald-Journal.

JL Sims Memorial Award for Spot News Photo

First Place: Ken Ruinard, Anderson Independent-Mail, Mother slain. What a powerful emotional picture. Every face in this image tells a story.

Second Place: Ken Ruinard, Anderson Independent-Mail, Wreck jostles students.

Third Place: Randall Hill, The Sun News, 7 dead in house fire.

Daily 26,001-80

Continued from page15

General News Photo

First Place: Alex C. Hicks Jr., The HeraldJournal, A wicked look.

Incredible moment perfectly captured and framed. You can feel the woman’s anger.

Second Place: Nathan Gray, Anderson Independent-Mail, Goodbye hug.

Third Place: Randall Hill, The Sun News, Plea hearing.

Feature Photo

First Place: Ken Ruinard, Anderson Independent-Mail, Eyeing the competition.

Lots of great photos submitted. This one stands out as original and a truly ‘found’ moment that would turn Norman Rockwell green with envy.

Second Place: Janet Blackmon Morgan, The Sun News, Used bras.

Third Place: Tim Kimzey, The HeraldJournal, Fun in the dirt.

Sports Action Photo

First Place: Nathan Gray, Anderson Independent-Mail, Leap and run.

Second Place: Ken Ruinard, Anderson Independent-Mail, Touchdown catch.

Third Place: Randall Hill, The Sun News, Face Mask.

Sports Feature Photo

First Place: Randall Hill, The Sun News, 110 in the shade.

This is a great shot that tells the story better than words.

Second Place: Gerry Pate, The HeraldJournal, Heartbroken Wolverines.

Third Place: Mike Bonner, The HeraldJournal, Camp ends.

Personality Photograph or Portrait

First Place: Ken Ruinard, Anderson Independent-Mail, Maxie. Beautiful portrait. I love everything about this photo - the dog, the peeling paint, the pianist’s sneakers. It is an uncontrived glimpse into what looks like a very sweet life.

Second Place: Randall Hill, The Sun News, With Charlie.

Third Place: Ken Ruinard, Anderson Independent-Mail, Saluting our heroes.

Photo Series or Photo Story

First Place: Randall Hill, The Sun News, The men of the Rusty Rails. Interesting, up-close glimpses of Railroaders at work.

Second Place: Alex C. Hicks Jr., The Herald-Journal, Andrew’s Journey.

Third Place: Janet Blackmon Morgan, The Sun News, 24 hours

Newspaper Web site

First Place: The Morning News, www. scnow.com.

Second Place: Anderson IndependentMail, www.independentmail.com.

Third Place: The Herald-Journal, www. goupstate.com.

Daily Under 26

Continued from page 4

ocratic Debate, First in the Nation. This newspaper had a big event of national significance to cover, and it pulled out all the stops. Very, very impressive. The coverage was thorough but lively and human.

Second Place: Randy Burns, The Item, Amber Hornsby, Dog bites.

Third Place: Gene Zaleski, Times and Democrat, Jafza, ‘transformation.’

Beat Reporting

First Place: Tim Donnelly, The Island Packet, Immigration.

Very competent job covering a complex issue. I especially like the ‘Minority Alliance’ piece - an interesting twist to this story! Great storytelling capability in the pay piece. Good job!

Second Place: Richard Walker, Times and Democrat, Beyond the police reports.

Third Place: Tony Baughman, Aiken Standard, City, government.

Health Reporting

First Place: Jenny Lim, The Island Packet, Looking fabulous, feeling whole.

Very difficult choosing between first and second; the difference was Lim’s ability to capture the essence of the story in her first couple paragraphs. Nice job hooking the reader with details and color. Good packaging.

Second Place: Maureen Simpson, The Island Packet, Five-second rule.

Third Place: Rebekah Sanders, Beaufort Gazette, A new therapy.

Education Reporting

First Place: Jonathan Cribbs, Beaufort Gazette, Letting boys be boys.

Cribbs does a nice job bringing education issues to the reader. Solid effort stands above the rest.

Second Place: Lee Tant, Times and Democrat, Tax relief.

Third Place: Mary Dolan, The Item, State districts fall short.

Business Reporting

First Place: Jim Faber, The Island Packet.

The reporter writes to benefit the average reader and takes steps to exhibit how the matter will affect real people. Empowerment information is given in both the story and in sidebars, and it doesn’t overwhelm the reader with difficult to understand business terms.

Second Place: Joe Perry, The Item.

Third Place: Gene Zaleski, Times and Democrat.

Humor Column Writing

First Place: Jeff Vrabel, The Island Packet.

Outstanding writing! Extraordinary sense of timing in all three submissions.

Second Place: Mike Gibbons, Aiken Standard.

Third Place: Gene Crider, Times and Democrat.

Public Service for Daily Newspapers

First Place: Staff, The Union Daily Times, School consolidation.

The Union Daily Times is both its news reporting and opinion pieces kept its readers well informed on the efforts to consolidate three high schools in its area. This leadership was very helpful to all sides involved in this highly explosive issue. This coverage is an excellent example of a newspaper serving its community. Well done.

Second Place: Staff, The Island Packet, Proof trusers.

Third Place: Staff, Times and Democrat, Democratic debate.

Spot Sports Story

First Place: Jeff Kidd, The Island Packet, Three cheers for Boo. Story was great from start to finish. It kept readers interested throughout.

Second Place: Steven Bradley, The Daily Journal, Razors dump MidCarolina on way to prom.

Third Place: Justin Jarrett, The Island Packet, Regal Eagles.

Sports Enterprise Reporting

First Place: Jeff Kidd, The Island Packet, Close contact, close calls. Very informative story. A great deal of work went into this.

Second Place: Brian Linder, Times and Democrat, Recovering from Tommy John surgery.

Third Place: Buddy Hughes, Beaufort Gazette, Going pro, going global.

Sports Feature Story

First Place: Kathlyn Clore, The Island Packet, Thou shalt enlarge my heart. A touching story about a marathon runner and the inspiration her deceased dad provides her. Nice storytelling.

Second Place: Will Martin, Beaufort Gazette, Mixing things up.

Third Place: Patrick Enzor, The Item, A long journey.

Sports Column Writing

First Place: Buddy Hughes, Beaufort Gazette.

Emotional, well-rounded column writing.

Second Place: Thomas Grant Jr., Times and Democrat.

Third Place: Tim Wood, Bluffton Today.

2/3x Weekly

Continued from page 5

Third Place: Jim Tatum, Chronicle - Independent, County Election.

Beat Reporting

First Place: Jim Faile, The Messenger, Courts.

Presented both sides, not judgmental - left opinions up to the reader.

Second Place: Stephen Guilfoyle, The News & Reporter, County Government.

Third Place: Martin Cahn, Chronicle - Independent, Law Enforcement.

Education Reporting

First Place: Linda Salsberry, Press & Standard, A new way to learn.

Good ideas. Solid reporting and writing made Salsberry’s entry stand out.

Second Place: Scott Powell, The Gaffney Ledger, Trustees ok.

Third Place: Jesef Williams, The Lancaster News, East meets West.

Business Reporting

First Place: Stephen Guilfoyle, The News & Reporter.

This reporter’s body of work shows initiative and an effort to turn ho-hum events into interesting reads. A good example in his work on a story about a new plant locating in Chester County. Instead of a glorified press release citing stats and numbers, the article had some interesting development and was an interesting read. The sidebar on the CrossRoads Restaurant drove home the impact of the plant on real people.

Second Place: Jim Tatum, Chronicle - Independent.

Third Place: Martin Cahn, Chronicle - Independent.

Humor Column Writing

First Place: Charles Rowland, Press & Standard.

Rowland’s three submitted columns give a (sometimes scary) peek into the mind of men. His ‘trough’ column made me laugh out loud and verified that women really don’t want to know ‘what ‘cha thinking?’

Second Place: Cody Sossamon, The Gaffney Ledger.

Third Place: Jim Tatum, Chronicle - Independent.

Spot Sports Story

First Place: Brantley Strickland, Press & Standard, Base-Brawl.

The reporter did a great job of covering the story within the story - a bench-clearing brawl in a baseball game. Nice writing and reporting.

Second Place: Kelly Snow, Newberry Observer, In honor of Deuce.

Third Place: Kelly Snow, Newberry Observer, It got away from us.

Sports Feature Story

First Place: Brantley Strickland, Press & Standard, ‘Die’ for the ages.

I think this is a true sports feature story. Well-written with great interview quotes.

Second Place: Robert Howey, The Lancast-

er News, Boling making a name at LHS.

Third Place: Travis Jenkins, The News & Reporter , Building a strong foundation.

Sports Column Writing

First Place: Travis Jenkins, The News & Reporter .

The columnist has a nice style and interesting ideas. His column about the oft-injured football player was the best one among all of the entries.

Second Place: Roger Lee, The Journal Scene, A little Leeway.

Third Place: Drew Tripp, Press & Standard.

Page One Design

First Place: Taylor Smith, Press & Standard.

Great type. Strong photography. Looks better than most dailies. What a semi-weekly newspaper should be. Nice clean design that puts the news front and center. Makes me want to pick up the paper and read it. There is a bit of sameness to the design, but not to the point it detracts. Instead, it’a a reassurance that the news comes first.

Second Place: Martha Bruce, ChronicleIndependent.

Third Place: Jamey Shepherd, The Lancaster News.

Page Design

First Place: Taylor Smith, Press & Standard, May 4, 2007.

Great use of photos. It really draws me in. Very clean.

Second Place: Laura Parker, The Gaffney Ledger, Sept. 26, 2007.

Third Place: Taylor Smith, Press & Standard, May 11, 2007.

Feature Page Design

First Place: Laura Parker, The Gaffney Ledger.

Strong use of art and clean type make the pages snap.

Second Place: Taylor Smith, Press & Standard.

Third Place: Vickie C. Tompkins, Georgetown Times.

Sports Page Design

First Place: Brantley Strickland, Press & Standard.

Excellent use of great photos. Pages have right mix of type and images.

Second Place: Phyllis Lucas, The News & Reporter .

Third Place: Kelly Snow, Newberry Observer.

JL Sims Memorial Award for Spot News Photo

First Place: Travis Jenkins, The News & Reporter, The empty chair.

Great photo that tells the story. Would have been better if it had run bigger!

Second Place: Brantley Strickland, Press & Standard, Jubilation.

Third Place: Aaron Morrison, The Lancaster News, Train vs. store.

General News Photo

First Place: Drew Tripp, Press & Standard,

Calvary charge.

This image looks like it came out of the Civil War. The color, composition and content are fantastic.

Second Place: Mark Griggs, ChronicleIndependent, Written in stone.

Third Place: Jason Lesley, Georgetown Times, Wooden boat show.

Feature Photo

First Place: Ryan Stone, Press & Standard, Beating the heat.

The child featured in this photo has such a great expression on his face. Good lighting in a shady area also elevates the image.

Second Place: Travis Jenkins, The News & Reporter, Pitching in.

Third Place: Ryan Bethea, Marlboro Herald Advocate, Hanging in there.

Sports Action Photo

First Place: Mike Laughlin , The News & Reporter, Wild ride.

Laughlin’s photo makes you wonder, and fear, what happens next.

Second Place: Duane Childers, The Messenger, Just one more yard.

Third Place: Drew Tripp, Press & Standard, In a pickle.

Sports Feature Photo

First Place: Billy Schimpf, The Journal Scene, Overwhelmed.

Great photo. Schimpf got in the celebration and caught the emotion. Only her teammates’ smiles let the readers know Lisenby won the volleyball game.

Second Place: Travis Jenkins, The News & Reporter, Cyclone Celebration.

Third Place: Kelly Snow, Newberry Observer, Taking a bath.

Personality Photograph or Portrait

First Place: Joey Benton, The Journal Scene, Marion Jones.

In a category meant to capture the essence of a personality, Benton gives us the photo of a woman who volunteers in every community in America. We all know a Marion Jones - she’s a volunteer in our town.

Second Place: Judy Watts, The Journal Scene, Limehouse birthday.

Third Place: Will Isgett, The Messenger, Sally Timmons.

Photo Series or Photo Story

First Place: Ardie Arvidson, The Messenger, Kids Fair.

Great layout and super photos. Good color on page.

Second Place: Ryan Bethea and Michaela Moore, Marlboro Herald Advocate, Relay for life.

Third Place: Mike Laughlin, The News & Reporter, Ride ‘em like you stole ‘em.

Over 4,000 Weekly

Continued from page 5

Profile Feature Writing or Story

First Place: Carrie Humphreys, Coastal Observer, Portrait of an artist.

The category criteria said the winner should capture the essence of the profiled person. This story does that, showing Chandler as a total person, not just an artist. The interviews with her and those who know her give readers an in-depth look at a local interesting person.

Second Place: John Marks, Lake Wylie Pilot, Joan Epping, More than a coach.

Third Place: April Silvaggio, Greenville Journal, There’s life after the NFL.

Short Story

First Place: Adam MacInnis, Enquirer-Herald, Southern industries winding down.

Great little story. Good writing.

Second Place: Nathaniel Cary, Tribune-Times, Rabbits taken by animal rights group.

Third Place: Tim Callahan, Coastal Observer, 7-year-old saves sister from choking.

Column Writing

First Place: Ana Parra, LINK in Greenville.

The columns by Parra were fun to read and showed the fun side of journalism - that is being paid to go out and have adventures, experience new things and then get to tell everyone about it.

Second Place: Cathy Elliot, News and Press.

Third Place: Jennifer Bartell, Marion Star & Mullins Enterprise.

Series of Articles

First Place: Sandy Foster, Pickens County Courier, The Justice System. Well written series exploring the justice system on a local level, offering alternatives while playing devil’s advocate at the same time. At times scary.

Second Place: John Davis, The Pageland Progressive-Journal, Surviving Cancer.

Third Place: Doug Dickerson, Berkeley Independent, Legal Reefer?

Reporting In-Depth

First Place: John Marks and Catherine Muccigrosso, Lake Wylie Pilot, Drought. Thorough coverage of a situation that

impacted total readership. It’s especially impressive that Marks took a trip out on the lake to see what residents couldn’t see from the water’s edge. Graphics and sidebars were very informative for readers.

Second Place: William Buchheit, The Woodruff News, The Methadone Machine.

Third Place: Gary Henderson, Spartanburg Journal, They gave everything.

Beat Reporting

First Place: Greg Hambrick, The Charleston City Paper, City of Charleston. Did a great job of making the stories interesting. Good photos accent the subject well.

Second Place: Jackie Broach, Coastal Observer, Environmental Issues.

Third Place: Eric Kenneth Ward, The Free Times, City Government.

Humor Column Writing

First Place: Larry Franklin, The Clinton Chronicle.

Franklin’s looks into his home life are very sweetly and humorously woven. I want to read more.

Second Place: Michael DeWitt, Hampton County Guardian.

Third Place: Leighton Bell, The Link in Cheraw.

Spot Sports Story

First Place: Martin Mobley, Country Chronicle.

Blythewood Bengals win AAA State Championship.

A school won a state championship in its first season of varsity competition. What an interesting story! The author did a good job of telling the story, weaving in details about the game with quotes and observation. A solid effort.

Second Place: Mac Banks, Fort Mill Times, Jackets win state.

Third Place: Zack Mauldin, Pickens County Courier, Late heroics life Lions over Greer.

Sports Feature Story

First Place: Chris Sokoloski, Coastal Observer, The week in football.

Day-in-the-life-of (or in this case, weekin-the-life-of) stories are great when done properly. The author pulled it off here. Great quotes, scenes and observations

Over 4,000 Weekly

Continued from page 18

made for a great story.

Second Place: Robert Anderson, Horry Independent, Aynor High students mourn death of a fallen comrade.

Third Place: Tim Callahan, Coastal Observer, Training to win.

Page One Design

First Place: Ann Thomas, News and Press. Outstanding type choices with readibility.

The rail could work better inside. Get rid of the 131 years star and the quote. Great photography.

Second Place: Matt Alsup, The Free Times. Third Place: Steve Robertson, Horry Independent.

JL Sims Memorial Award for Spot News Photo

First Place: Curtis Mahaffey, The Journal, Recycling fire.

The photos show the size of the fire and you can almost feel the heat coming off the page. Second Place: David Rogers, The Journal, Cannon Bottom Road.

Third Place: Dianne Driggers, The Link in Cheraw, Fire totals 18-wheeler.

General News Photo

First Place: Joshua Curry, The Charleston City Paper, Charleston nine color guard. An emotional image that also tells a story. The lighting and composition are stunning.

Second Place: Roger Lee, The Gazette, Funeral.

Third Place: Shellie Murdaugh, Hampton County Guardian, Farewell and Godspeed.

Feature Photo

First Place: Tanya Ackerman, Coastal Observer, Joy School Student Raymond.

What a beautiful moment captured for print. The color, lighting and joy on the subject’s face all make for an amazing photo.

Second Place: John Davis, The Pageland Progressive-Journal, Seedspitter Junior.

Third Place: Gwinn Davis, TribuneTimes, The Great Tape Off

Sports Action Photo

First Place: Robbie Caswell, Myrtle Beach Herald, St. Edwards sees for win. Caswell’s photo captures the action and shows the impact of selecting a different angle and cropping style. The photo makes you stop and look...at everything.

Second Place: Mac Banks, Fort Mill Times, Sliding in.

Third Place: Johnny Ellis, Marion Star & Mullins Enterprise, Creek bridge.

Sports Feature Photo

First Place: Mandy Ferguson, The Greer Citizen, United.

Ferguson caught the emotion and the real importance of the game. Did the crowd cheer louder at any time that night?

Second Place: Cindy Ensminger, Daniel Island News, Bishop England.

“Sliding In,” Mac Banks, Fort Mill Times, Second Place, Sports Action Photo, Weekly Over 4,000.

Daily Under 26

Continued from page 16

Page One Design

First Place: Jennifer Alliet, The Island Packet. Very close category. All three winners deserve high praise. Winner gets the job done with smart illustrations and strong presentation.

Second Place: Rachel Ferguson, Beaufort Gazette.

Third Place: Hannah Carroll, The Island Packet.

Page Design

First Place: Jes Spivak, Beaufort Gazette, Spicy foods. Just full of wow factor. Clean and bright. Great use of color.

Second Place: Zack Kozdron, Bluffton Today, Aug. 19, 2007.

Third Place: Cate Westberg, The Island Packet, IAA 082907.

Feature Page Design

First Place: Shanda Cook, The Island Packet.

Sharp. I’m reading before I know I am. Very reader friendly. Outstanding, Second Place: Cate Westberg, The Island Packet.

Third Place: Kristin Coker and Wendy Crider, Times and Democrat.

Sports Page Design

First Place: Jeff Kidd, The Island Packet.

A consistent wow. Outstanding presen-

Please See DAILY Under 26 page 22

Weekly Under 4,000

Continued from page 6

Humor Column Writing

First Place: Gee Atkinson, Lee County Observer.

Nice pacing, good at self-deprecating humor and at building the story.

Very easy to read style.

Second Place: Elaine Ellison-Rider, News-Chronicle.

Third Place: Ettie Newlands, The Loris Scene.

Spot Sports Story

First Place: Michael Smith, The Loris Scene, State Champs.

Second Place: Anthony Garzilli, Jasper County Sun, Ridgeland’s reason to rejoice.

Third Place: Jed Blackwell, The Inman Times, Lady Panthers return to finals.

Sports Feature Story

First Place: Jed Blackwell, The Inman Times, Chesnee remembers Mulwee.

Emotional story with a lot of information.

Second Place: Jed Blackwell, The Inman Times, Separate but equal.

Third Place: Anthony Garzilli, Jasper County Sun, They come like they are going to church.

Page One Design

First Place: Michael Smith, The Loris Scene.

Very clean design with outstanding usage of type. I think the rail is unnecessary, it takes up a lot of space. The mast could look a little more stately and clean to match the sharp pages. Be sure to get more of a story on the front so they don’t jump before the reader is hooked. Design would work at papers much larger. Outstanding.

Second Place: Jed Blackwell, Chesnee Tribune.

Third Place: Frank Johnson, The Citizen News.

JL Sims Memorial Award for Spot News Photo

First Place: Shellie Murdaugh, Jasper County Sun, Fire destroys Sandy Run church buildings. The photo tells a story, which is the hallmark of good photojournalism. It shows immediately that it is a fire involving a church. I also thought the cross in the foreground provided great framing for the fire-damaging areas.

Second Place: Michael Smith, The Loris Scene, Four firefighters trapped.

Third Place: Jed Blackwell, The Inman

Times, Fire destroys Inman Laundry.

General News Photo

First Place: Michael Smith, The Loris Scene, Move that bus.

This photo looks like a shot right out of ‘Extreme Makeover: Home Edition.’ Great emotion and impact.

Second Place: Michael Smith, The Loris Scene, Bennett discusses 2005 murder case.

Third Place: Paul Brown, News-Chronicle, Confederate soldier.

Feature Photo

First Place: Rusty Estes, News-Chronicle, A living nativity.

This photo’s beautiful lighting and composition elevate it. The photo offers the serene tone that the holiday season often reflects.

Second Place: Michael Smith, The Loris Scene, Remembering their sacrifice.

Third Place: Mike Adams, The Star, Helping hands.

Sports Action Photo

First Place: Phil Buchheit, Spartanburg County News, Keep on movin’. Good action and great expression on the runner’s face.

Second Place: Michael Smith, The Loris

Scene, Incomplete pass.

Third Place: Mike Adams, The Star, Swim season heats up.

Sports Feature Photo

First Place: Mike Adams, The Star, The end of the line.

Great photo. He lost the game, but she suffers the most. It’s great to be young and care.

Second Place: Debbie Rogers, NewsChronicle, Heading to state playoffs.

Third Place: Debbie Rogers, NewsChronicle, Parents.

Personality Photograph or Portrait

First Place: Ettie Newlands, The Loris Scene, Lifetime of achievement.

Newland’s photo gives the impression of a man who has seen a lot.

Second Place: Brad McClam, Lake City News & Post, Davis joins dancin’.

Third Place: Kevin Wilson, The Star, Shockingly interesting.

Photo Series or Photo Story

First Place: Mike Adams, The Star. Great layout and photo illustrations. All the kids smiles make for a fun page.

Second Place: Bill Bengston, The Star.

Third Place: Gee Atkinson, Lee County Observer.

Over 4,000 Weekly

Continued from page 19

Third Place: Gwinn Davis, TribuneTimes, State champs.

Personality Photograph or Portrait

First Place: Tanya Ackerman, Coastal Observer, Henry Odum.

This photo does a wonderful job of conveying the relationship between this couple and the problems they face.

Second Place: Tara-Lynne S. Pixley, LINK in Greenville, The cars we love.

Third Place: Gwinn Davis, TribuneTimes, Delvin Choice.

Photo Series or Photo Story

First Place: Gwinn Davis, TribuneTimes, Veteran’s Pride.

A good mix of photos from the event and great layout.

Second Place: Gwinn Davis, TribuneTimes, Revolution remembered.

Third Place: Gwinn Davis, TribuneTimes, Class of 2007.

Daily Under 26

Continued from page 19

tation, especially with the Aussie page. Very nice.

Second Place: Mike Bragg, The Island Packet.

Third Place: J. Spears, Times and Democrat.

JL Sims Memorial Award for Spot News Photo

First Place: Chris Moore, The Item, Tornado kills 1, injures 2 (The Aftermath).

The picture shows devastation, emotion and the physical effects of the tornado. It is such a strong photo to tell this story.

Second Place: Christoper Huff, Times and Democrat, Warehouse smolders after cotton gin fire.

Third Place: Keith Gedamke, The Item, 2 children die in house fire.

General News Photo

First Place: Chris Moore, The Item, The wonders of the outdoors.

Great photo showing emotion from both parties involved.

Second Place: Chris Moore, The Item, Holloman gets a year.

Third Place: Chris Moore, The Item, Back in my arms again.

Feature Photo

First Place: Stephen Berend, Bluffton Today, St. Gregory School.

I’ve never seen kids so excited on the first day of school.

Second Place: Scott Salisbury, Bluffton Today, Diving for time.

Third Place: Stephen Berend, Bluffton Today, Marine Air Show.

Sports Action Photo

First Place: Brian Linder, Times and Democrat, Dog gone tough.

Very dramatic football action with the underdogs taking it to the favorites.

Shot at night when a good exposure isn’t easy, but this picture came out sharp and well-lighted.

Second Place: Jonathan Dyer, The Island Packet, You make the call.

Third Place: Pete Cochran, The Union Daily Times, One last time.

Sports Feature Photo

First Place: Kenny Fey, The Daily Journal, No problems.

This is a real grabber of a shot, caught at just the right instant. You can feel the elation.

Second Place: Art Vandalay, The Daily Journal, Wounded bobcat.

Third Place: Jay Karr, The Island Packet, Gone with the wind.

Personality Photograph or Portrait

First Place: Kristin Goode, The Island Packet, Rock Star.

Creative and original photo.

Second Place: Brian Linder, Times and Democrat, Hillary Clinton reacts.

Third Place: Tony Baughman, Aiken

“Remission

Standard, Clowning around.

Photo Series or Photo Story

First Place: Scott Salisbury, Bluffton Today, Life, love and liberation. Looking at these pictures, you can almost hear the joyful noise reverberating through the church. Great job.

Second Place: Stephen Berend, Bluffton Today, Remission granted.

Third Place: Kristin Goode, The Island Packet, Stickwork.

Newspaper Web site

First Place: Times and Democrat. Clean design. Easy to navigate. Not overwhelmed with ornamentation. The constantly changing news-tab at the left is a bit distracting. All major elements, including top commented stories, easily accessible.

Second Place: The Island Packet.

Third Place: The Daily Journal.

All Daily

Continued from page 4

et, The Guide. While ‘The Guide’ didn’t contain as much locally produced copy as some of its competitors, the information contained inside its pages was fun to read, quirky and creative. I love the creative touches like the staff photos turning into ‘Simpsons’ faces and the editor wearing an eye patch for the pirate edition. These guys are either crazy or having a lot of fun at work.

Second Place: Mary Erskine, The Sun News, Kicks.

Third Place: Mark Layman, The State.

Best Online News Project

First Place: Times and Democrat, 2007 Presidential Debate. Most diverse interactivity, detailed, organized and interactive with the public on personal levels of their opinions.

Second Place: The Sun News, The Men of the Rusty Rails.

Third Place: The Herald-Journal, The Chapman Cultural Center.

Best Integration of Print and Web Coverage

First Place: The Herald-Journal, Andrew’s Journey.

Andrew’s Journey had great print coverage, that was greatly enhanced by the Web coverage. This was a great example of how print to Web should be done.

Second Place: The Sun News, Ocean Isle Beach Fire Coverage.

Third Place: The Morning News, Stadiums.

‘em like you stole ‘em,”