BNC Winners Tab 2016

Read the BNC Winners Tab

The table below lists the first- and second-place winners, and honorable mentions for daily and weekly newspapers in the 2016 CNPA Better Newspapers Contest. Judge’s comments appear in the right column. Some entries did not receive judge’s comments. Use the search box at the top right of the table to quickly locate your publication or writer.

Campus winners

Advertising Excellence Contest winners

CategoryPlaceNewspaperName of EntryCreditJudge’s Comments
Agricultural ReportingHonorable MentionBrentwood PressDelta counties file suit against L.A. water giantCorey HuntThis was a well-done story on an important issue. Reporting was solid and writing was comprehendible by those not familiar with the issue.
Agricultural ReportingHonorable MentionLos Angeles TimesNiche AgricultureGeoffrey MohanI really learned a lot about quinoa — and that’s what a good report is all about. An in-depth study of a crop that’s not really reported on. Writing hooks you in from the very beginning.
Agricultural ReportingHonorable MentionMonterey County WeeklyMonterey Bay Seaweeds brings seaweed superpowers to plates.Mark C. AndersonUnusual, interesting story with lots of color, variety of ways of looking at seaweed and Dr. Graham.
Agricultural Reporting1stSan Francisco ChronicleSeafood’s new normalTara Duggan\Very in-depth reporting from all aspects of the seafood industry. Nice use of fact sheets to help enforce the focus of the article.
Agricultural Reporting2ndSanta Barbara IndependentFollowing the Santa Barbara Wine Country OrdinanceMatt KettmannConcise, well-written story with lots of viewpoints, well-told and illustrated in the text. Well done to separate story on revenue from the ordinance, although they are interrelated. Wonder which way the vote went?
Agricultural Reporting1stSanta Maria SunThe new workforceBrenna SwanstonConcise, well written, focused, brings in different points of view without being polemic, good illustrations of a current problem with economic and political ramifications.
Agricultural Reporting1stSanta Maria TimesH-2A: Filling the GapsApril Charlton, Logan AndersonThis was a very strong, well-written series examining the challenges of housing farmworkers in high-cost areas. The series does a good job explaining the H-2A visa, why such workers are needed, and the community frictions over where to house these workers. I especially liked the solutions piece, showing readers what’s possible. Very well done.
Agricultural Reporting2ndSt. Helena StarBefore the grapes, there was the Bale MillTom StockwellThe article provided an in-depth explanation with history and remained clear and accurate. The thorough explanations provided depth to the article.,
Agricultural ReportingHonorable MentionThe Business JournalMandarin mania: Citrus value doubled in 2015Chuck HarveyWhile going in depth, the article remained clear and provided many facts and figures without the numbers becoming overwhelming. It was very thorough while remaining easy to read.
Agricultural ReportingHonorable MentionThe Business JournalNetafirm partners with ag startup to grow ’micro farm’ effortGeorge LurieThe article took a relatively complex topic and made it simple to understand. It provided clarity and provided examples to go with facts and details.
Agricultural Reporting1stThe Desert SunFarm labor shortageGustavo Solis
Agricultural ReportingHonorable MentionThe Desert SunHomeless HarvestersGustavo Solis, Omar Ornelas
Agricultural ReportingHonorable MentionThe Fresno BeeFresno’s Hmong farmers suffer in drought …Andrea CastilloA great study on a small population. You really get a sense of the plight these farmers are facing.
Agricultural Reporting2ndThe Napa Valley RegisterRound-up in wineHoward YuneLots of sources and good balance in this story examining concerns about glyphosate use in vineyards, some of the research on health risks, and the choices farmers face in deciding whether to use the herbicide.
Agricultural Reporting2ndThe Press DemocratCan parks, ranches really get along?Guy KovnerGreat descriptions of the land, and its farmers. Captured my interest from the beginning, and I wanted to find out more.
Agricultural ReportingHonorable MentionThe RecordCannabis countyAlex Breitler
Agricultural Reporting1stThe Selma Enterprise/Kingsburg RecorderBee decline is affecting cropsLaura MaldonadoThe article took a thorough look at the topic, while keeping it easily digestible. The writing was clear and multiple sources helped provide depth to the subject.
Agricultural Reporting2ndThe TribuneGuest worker program provides labor, poses difficulties for SLO County growersLindsey Holden
Agricultural ReportingHonorable MentionTimes-StandardDairy farms struggle to find enough workersWill HoustonThis story raises an interesting angle — that mainstream ag is being out-competed for hard-to-find workers by marijuana growers who pay more — and pay in cash.
Agricultural ReportingHonorable MentionUkiah Daily JournalUkiah’s Craft Canine: The McNab ShepherdJustine Frederiksen, Chris PughVery charming and well written story on the McNab working dog. This was a delight to read, the quotes are smart and used effectively, well sourced — overall a very nice tale.
Artistic Photo2ndAtascadero NewsRainbow Shines Over City HallLuke PhillipsWhat a beautifully captured rainbow! It almost looks like it’s shining luck upon City Hall.
Artistic PhotoHonorable MentionBlack Voice NewsMike’s FitnessBenoit and Kathy Malphettes
Artistic Photo1stBrentwood PressUp in the cloudsTony Kukulich
Artistic PhotoHonorable MentionChico Enterprise-RecordSanta’s sleighBill Husa
Artistic PhotoHonorable MentionDaily BreezeGraduation ceremonyThomas R. CordovaPerfectly captures the nervous energy of graduation day with wonderful movement and intense color.
Artistic Photo1stDel Norte TriplicateFireworksBryant AndersonGorgeous colors! The gradient in the sky and all of wonderful little details set this apart from most firework photos. Great work!
Artistic PhotoHonorable MentionLake County Record-BeeRain ExpectedDave FariesAbsolutely beautiful colors and composition!
Artistic PhotoHonorable MentionLedger DispatchMokelumne SunsetStaffNice use of sunset lighting. Beautiful colors, solid composition. Landscapes can be boring, but this one certainly isn’t. The leading lines draw you right in.
Artistic PhotoHonorable MentionLodi News-SentinelSuper moon over LodiBea AhbeckGreat juxtaposition of the Supermoon and the sign. Amazing just to get the moon shot, let alone the city’s sign!
Artistic Photo1stLos Angeles TimesKushti Wrestling in IndiaBarbara DavidsonThe action and lighting in this photo make me want to lean in and look closer know more about what is going on. I love that the light shining in the windows puts a highlight on just about everything — even near the bottom of the floor where you can still pick up the details near his feet and in the back right corner of the floor. The water frozen in motion is another nice element of this photo.
Artistic Photo2ndPetaluma Argus-CourierSunflowersCrissy PascualVery strong composition. Great use of color and the rule of thirds. Nice work!
Artistic PhotoHonorable MentionSan Francisco ChronicleReflectionsLeah MillisWonderful juxtaposition of the two images! The scene in the street supports the emotion on Maya’s face. Going black and white was a great choice. Beautiful work!
Artistic Photo2ndSan Jose Mercury NewsHorse Walks On WaterPatrick TehanSuch a stunning photo! The shallow depth of field draws the eye straight to the subject’s face. It’s impressive that you were able to use a long enough shutter speed to blur most of the action, but still keep the subject’s face in sharp. Fantastic!
Artistic Photo1stSanta Barbara IndependentLas Cumbres Observatory Global Telescope NetworkPaul WellmanWell-executed time exposure with added light painting on buildings. Strongest in category.
Artistic PhotoHonorable MentionSanta Barbara IndependentHomelessPaul Wellman
Artistic PhotoHonorable MentionSanta Barbara IndependentChristina SanchezPaul WellmanNice use of light and movement.
Artistic Photo1stSanta Cruz SentinelDowntown DancersShmuel ThalerPatterns and colors work to create a very aesthetically pleasing photo. Really drawers the viewer in.
Artistic Photo1stSierra StarA Proud TraditionMichael CostaThis is a beautiful, arresting shot showing the dancer’s dedication. It definitely has a “wow” factor. Great work.
Artistic PhotoHonorable MentionSierra StarA Proud TraditionMichael CostaNice tight shot of an expressive face with good depth of field. It’s an interesting image.
Artistic PhotoHonorable MentionThe AlmanacGay pastor preaches the gospel of acceptanceMichelle Le
Artistic Photo2ndThe Capistrano DispatchMariachi San Juan CapistranoAllison Jarrell
Artistic PhotoHonorable MentionThe Desert SunSia performsRichard Lui
Artistic Photo2ndThe Fresno BeeMagical moonbows at YosemiteCraig KohlrussAbsolutely gorgeous moment caught in a perfect composition.
Artistic PhotoHonorable MentionThe Fresno BeeSierra powdered; Fresno rain totals encouragingJohn WalkerThe truck in the middle provides the perspective for the majesty of the trees along the sides. Just beautiful.
Artistic PhotoHonorable MentionThe Intermountain NewsBedding down for the nightKathi CorderThis is not only a beautiful sunset, but a portrait of the land and a way of life. Very nicely done.
Artistic Photo2ndThe Napa Valley RegisterAutumn spectacularJL SousaI loved the painterly quality of this piece and found myself thinking about the photo days after viewing it. Rarely do “postcard” photos like this do the scene justice, but, I believe this is an exception!
Artistic Photo1stThe Press DemocratPicture Postcard ChristmasKent PorterA Christmas card indeed! The sharp contrast of the steeple against the starry sky with the soft bend of the trees at either side make a fabulous image.
Artistic PhotoHonorable MentionThe Sacramento BeeHeaven’s AboveRandall BentonPerfect use of color! The contrast between the warm light on the small dishes and the cool light on the large dish is great. Nice work!
Artistic Photo2ndThe TribunePastel sunsetJoe JohnstonColors and blur create nice mood.
Artistic Photo1stTimes-Herald, VallejoQueen of the deadChris RileyThis is a beautiful, well-composed photo that I would happily run as my dominant image any day of the week. The foreground feathers give this photo a secretive appeal. It’s as if we’re getting a glimpse of these characters and they’ve just caught us peeking! And, of course, the colors are stunning.
Artistic PhotoHonorable MentionTracy PressReverent retirementGlenn Moore
Artistic Photo2ndVida en el ValleEl Grito!Hector Navejas
Arts & Entertainment Coverage1stAntelope Valley PressShowcaseShowcase Staff
Arts & Entertainment CoverageHonorable MentionAtascadero NewsNorth County Arts & Entertainment — Feb. 5 & 12 EditionsStaff
Arts & Entertainment Coverage2ndDel Mar TimesLocal resident Wendy Walker’s new legal drama ’Notorious’ to air on ABC this fallLois Alter MarkThe story was very well written.
Arts & Entertainment CoverageHonorable MentionLodi News-SentinelArt and musicSara Jane PohlmanSome enjoyable features in these arts sections.
Arts & Entertainment Coverage2ndLos Angeles Downtown NewsSeptember 26 and October 3, 2016 IssuesStaffThe 40 for Fall piece was incredibly eye-catching and well-designed. Overall, this section has a lot of spunk that’s hard to come by these days. The great cutouts make the calendar come alive. Fun photos and an overall nice section.
Arts & Entertainment Coverage1stLos Angeles TimesSunday Calendar/Arts&Books, May 29 and June 5Los Angeles Times StaffFirst-class. This is as good as the New York Times!
Arts & Entertainment Coverage1stMetro Silicon ValleyMay 4 and 11, 2016StaffThese issues impressed me with their design, energy and variety of stories. The 60-mile rule was a good investment of time and effort as it likely answered questions that have been on many readers’ minds. I also like the look and feel of the weekly calendar. The publication is still hip and appeals to all ages. It’s like reading a national magazine with events that are in your backyard. No. 1, it’s a fun read.
Arts & Entertainment CoverageHonorable MentionMountain DemocratOct. 14 and 21, 2016Mimi EscabarGood photos. Interesting Hangtown music festival story.
Arts & Entertainment CoverageHonorable MentionNorth Bay BohemianUnder the Prairie SunStaffI was fascinated with the history about the chicken ranch turning into a recording studio.
Arts & Entertainment Coverage1stNorth Coast JournalMarch 3 and 10, 2016StaffThis is the type of publication I would be thrilled to find if I was visiting the area. It offers a nice variety of stories and gives a great rundown of nightlife, art exhibits, upcoming events and other things to do ... in an easy format to read.
Arts & Entertainment CoverageHonorable MentionPacific SunOut of darknessDavid TempletonAn engaging story about an ex-inmate who got his chance on stage.
Arts & Entertainment Coverage2ndPleasanton WeeklyApril 29, May 6, 2016Staff
Arts & Entertainment CoverageHonorable MentionSanta Barbara IndependentNov. 10 and 17, 2016Indy StaffGreat writing styles throughout. Also nice layout and diverse activities to please all kinds of readers.
Arts & Entertainment CoverageHonorable MentionSanta Cruz SentinelThe GuideWallace Baine
Arts & Entertainment Coverage2ndSierra StarSmall town theatre — big time entertainmentBrian Wilkinson
Arts & Entertainment CoverageHonorable MentionThe ArkFeb. 3 and 10, 2016Staff
Arts & Entertainment CoverageHonorable MentionThe Bakersfield CalifornianApril 7 and 10, 2016StaffGood balance of stories.
Arts & Entertainment CoverageHonorable MentionThe Beach ReporterMay 19 and 26, 2016Michael HixonNice mix of activities included in the publication. Layout is clean but fun. I’d like to see some of the stories have more sources.
Arts & Entertainment CoverageHonorable MentionThe Davis EnterpriseMarch 21 and April 1, 2016StaffThe front-page layout was fresh with the cutouts and made me want to read the stories.
Arts & Entertainment CoverageHonorable MentionThe Fresno BeeMarch 11 and 18, 2016StaffThis publication is exciting to look at and is full of life. Diverse topics too!
Arts & Entertainment Coverage1stThe Intermountain NewsAfter Five: August and September 2016Staff
Arts & Entertainment Coverage1stThe Napa Valley RegisterMay 26 and June 2, 2016Sasha PaulsenEngaging and attention-getting. A truly varied arts section with features on locals and attention paid to national or regional stories. Stimulating design work, aided also by easily flowing copy. Fascinating and varied subject matter, well balanced.
Arts & Entertainment CoverageHonorable MentionThe RecordTimeoutStaff
Arts & Entertainment Coverage2ndThe San Diego Union-TribuneMarch 27, 2016StaffA diverse selection of story topics. Nice writing styles and beautiful photos.
Arts & Entertainment Coverage1stThe Sonoma Index-TribuneStaffDiverse coverage of the arts. Informative story on 3 Badge Beverage. Fun, action photos.
Arts & Entertainment Coverage2ndThe TribuneTicketStaff
Arts & Entertainment CoverageHonorable MentionThe UnionProspector magazineKeri Brenner, Laci Thompson
Arts & Entertainment CoverageHonorable MentionThe Union DemocratWeekenderMike Morris
Arts & Entertainment Coverage2ndVisalia Times-Delta & Tulare Advance-RegisterChoicesZachary Newcott and James WardThe writer finds an uplifting story and tells it well through a series of people whose lives have been affected. Great to hear a kid’s voice in here, and to see reporting that buttresses the anecdotal evidence that the ranch is having success.
Breaking NewsHonorable MentionAppeal-Democrat1973 Cold Case ArrestMonica VaughanWow. You kept my attention throughout this story. Definitely being tipped off to the arrests paid off in the background work you were able to do. Good reporting.
Breaking News1stChino-Chino Hills ChampionChino Hills store hits jackpotMarianne NapolesLively, descriptive writing as well as all the newsy facts.
Breaking News2ndDaily PressCoverage of the Bluecut FireStaffAn impressive collection of stories following multiple angles during the Bluecut Fire.
Breaking News2ndDel Norte TriplicateUnfortunate detourMichael ZoggThe reporter did a great job of getting to the scene to get photos and quotes from the driver, which made for a compelling package. Great details and quotes, particularly of the driver’s retelling of what happened.
Breaking NewsHonorable MentionDel Norte TriplicateCarjacker arrested after pursuitTony ReedThorough reporting with lots of detail. Great work by the reporter to get to the scene for images and source-work.
Breaking News1stEast Bay TimesGhost Ship warehouse fireEast Bay Times staffSupurb, intensely deep initial reporting with humanistic coverage of a tragic event that used a combination of “by the facts” reporting and a mixture of stories written in a style of “you are there” and “through the eyes” of those affected by tragedy that both informed the reader while humanizing those involved, which elevated this entry to the top in an extremely close category. The art and graphics were also exceptional.
Breaking NewsHonorable MentionLos Angeles TimesL.A. Sheriff’s Sergeant SlainLos Angeles Times Staff
Breaking News1stMerced Sun-StarHighway 99 bus crashStaffExcellent breaking news coverage of a fatal 3:30 a.m. bus accident. The initial story was published at 6:34 a.m., showing that the Merced Sun-Star staff hits the ground running. The first story combined interviews with authorities and survivors, info about the bus company’s safety track record, and three videos from the scene. Follow-up stories the next two days showed dogged pursuit of facts.
Breaking News2ndMountain View VoiceGoogle, LinkedIn agree to huge land swapMark Noack, Andrea Gemmet
Breaking NewsHonorable MentionNorth Coast JournalClearing the MarshStaff
Breaking News1stPetaluma Argus-Courier2 children die in car crashMatt BrownThe reporter did a solid job of gathering information both from officials and the family while working on a tight deadline. The quotes are striking and key details help tell the story of the tragedy. Solid work all around.
Breaking NewsHonorable MentionPetaluma Argus-CourierFire displaces residentsHannah Beausang and Matt BrownGood detail and colorful quotes from witnesses.
Breaking News1stPleasanton WeeklyCourt denies mayoral candidate’s lawsuit against city clerkJulia Reis
Breaking NewsHonorable MentionPleasanton WeeklyPleasanton police officer clearedMeredith Bauer
Breaking NewsHonorable MentionRecord SearchlightSherri PapiniStaffImpressive work staying on top of a breaking news story as it developed day to day.
Breaking News2ndSacramento News & ReviewThe nazis are comingRachel LeibrockNews and just the right amount of attitude.
Breaking News2ndSan Francisco ChronicleSan Francisco Chronicle: Ghost Ship FireStaffA decidedly close second place with solid, well-written stories accompanied by an extremely strong digital effort that got the news and updates out immediately on all available platforms and channels. The volume of total coverage is tremendous and well coordinated and didn’t leave any stones unturned.
Breaking NewsHonorable MentionSierra Star73,000 marijuana plants uprootedMark Evan SmithNice coverage of the environmental impacts of illegal grow operations.
Breaking News2ndThe ArkTiburon man rescues woman in San RafaelMatthew Hose & Elliot KarlanThe story was solid. It was inspiring to see a random person turn the tides of what could’ve been a tragic scene.
Breaking News2ndThe Desert SunPalm Springs police officers shot and killedStaffHard news did not keep the team from covering all the bases. Appreciated the photos, video, graphics and historical context. I liked all the extra digging you did (law enforcement deaths).
Breaking News1stThe Fresno BeeFresno police release body camera videos in Dylan Noble shootingRory AppletonWell-written and clearly communicated. Good incorporation of video and use of background details to fill out the story. Compelling read with pertinent information for the public and readers.
Breaking NewsHonorable MentionThe Fresno BeeArmed felon critically wounds 2 officers in Fresno County Jail lobbyTroy Pope, Jim Guy and Marc BenjaminGood attention to detail in breaking story. Great use of photos and video, as well as incorporation of social media.
Breaking NewsHonorable MentionThe Fresno BeeObama’s visit to YosemiteStaffGreat writing and use of details. Covers story from many angles. Nice use of photos to tell the story.
Breaking NewsHonorable MentionThe Mountain EnterpriseMurder of young momGary Meyer and Patric HedlundIn-depth coverage of a tragic tale.
Breaking NewsHonorable MentionThe Orange County RegisterOrange County jail breakStaff
Breaking News2ndThe Press DemocratTwo children die after truck plunges into riverRandi Rossmann and Julie JohnsonEvent covered from all angles. Good integration of story and photos. Compelling writing and storytelling.
Breaking NewsHonorable MentionThe RecordEmbattled mayor disputes changes; Mayor Silva arrested; StocktonRoger Phillips, Alex Breitler, Michael FitzgeraldGood packaging. I liked: the comprehensive look at the impact of his arrest; community voices in the reaction piece; the onsite reporting as he was arrested; all of the additional information surrounding his arrest (documents etc). You took this beyond the typical breaking news story of an arrest.
Breaking NewsHonorable MentionThe RecordLucky to be aliveJason Anderson
Breaking NewsHonorable MentionThe Salinas CalifornianDick Bruhn building consumed in ’suspicious’ fireJoe Truskot, Chelcey Adami and Jeff MitchellNews and context.
Breaking News1stThe TribuneDiablo Canyon to close: 2 days of coverageStaffImpressive full-court press across a complicated topic with wide-ranging implications. Writing is clear, informative. Liked how story was packaged with licensing, community impact, analysis etc.; lots of pullouts and fact snippets; entire package showed significance of closure. Interesting read.
Breaking News1stThe Weekly CalistoganManhunt ends after hourslong searchAnne Ward Ernst, Sean Scully, Maria SestitoGreat coverage of an event that affected the community!
Breaking NewsHonorable MentionThousand Oaks AcornLosing Bernard MoonKyle Jorrey, Andy Nguyen, Becca WhitnallNice job on an emotional story.
ColumnsHonorable MentionAlameda JournalJoe King’s Thoughts on the Run columnJoe KingWise words and illustrated nicely from a local perspective. Thanks.
Columns1stAuburn JournalColumns by Tricia CaspersTricia Caspers
Columns2ndBlack Voice NewsRants & RavesPaulette Brown HindsTightly written. Cuts to the chase quickly yet still sensitive and respectful to the deceased man. Hopefully will motivate some action by those in authority to better help the plight of the homeless.
Columns2ndChico Enterprise-RecordDavid Little columnsDavid LittleVery well-written, and piece on the “bum” shows a unique connection to the community. Thoughtful work.
ColumnsHonorable MentionGrunion GazettePinch Of SaltHarry Saltzgaver
ColumnsHonorable MentionLedger DispatchOutdoor AmadorStaff
ColumnsHonorable MentionLos Altos Town CrierMortgage mania; Happy Mother’s DayMegan V. WinslowLots of personality in these columns. Strong voice. Enjoyable reads.
Columns2ndLos Angeles TimesSteve Lopez on California’s CoastSteve LopezA persuasive and passionate defense of the public interest in beach access. Outstanding mix of personal voice, historical information, and political perception. Really draws the reader in.
Columns1stMonterey County Weekly”Local Spin” columnsMary Duan
Columns1stNorth Coast JournalLinda StansberryLinda StansberryWell written; good logic; lots of local flavor. Enjoyable read.
Columns2ndPalisades NewsThe Art of Re-Gifting: Curse of Historians and Wanted: Dorm Room with a ViewBob VickreyWell written, nice story telling. Good, illustrative writing. I enjoyed these columns.
ColumnsHonorable MentionPetaluma Argus-CourierJohn Jackson columns, June 2 and Sept. 22, 2016John JacksonWell written with authority. The author is clearly a longtime Giants fan and was able to convey the team’s 2016 sputtering, tortured post season in a fun, accurate and enjoyable way.
ColumnsHonorable MentionSan Francisco ChronicleJohn Diaz columnsJohn DiazOutstanding. Thoroughly reported, plainly stated, powerfully argued.
Columns1stSan Jose Mercury NewsMarcus Thompson columnsMarcus Thompson IIGreat personal voice. Powerful piece on giving, very touching and interesting piece on the journey home.
ColumnsHonorable MentionSan Jose Mercury NewsMark Purdy ColumnsMark PurdyGreat stuff — very pointed, emotional, insightful and readable. Conveys the drama and the backstory in both items with elegant bluntness.
Columns1stSt. Helena StarThe unintended outcome of Kaepernick’s protest; Rose’s rape case can teach us a lotYousef BaigThoughtful reflection on two social issues while giving voice to multiple perspectives. Yousef Baig digs beyond the surface and into the culture.
ColumnsHonorable MentionSt. Helena StarSuch a loss to a family; The story of TimothyDavid StonebergRarely do we meet someone before a tragic end as we do here. David Stoneberg’s good deed gave his readers a valuable snapshot of the man, the world.
Columns1stThe Bakersfield CalifornianLois Henry columnsLois HenryShe writes with passion about two issues local residents should be concerned about. Her writing style with her turn of phrases got her the win.
ColumnsHonorable MentionThe Desert SunArnold Palmer The KingLarry BohannanVery nice, eloquent writing, with a confidence in the subject matter. Palmer piece in particular puts a unique local spin on a national subject.
ColumnsHonorable MentionThe Modesto BeeMike Dunbar columnsMike DunbarThe difficult balance of conservation, ecology, agriculture and politics made the fish column a good and informative one, especially since most readers probably never considered much beyond “more water flow must be better.” Educated me a great deal on the Central Valley’s water issues. Lots of research went into this.
Columns2ndThe Napa Valley RegisterSimple & SassySamie Hartley
Columns2ndThe Press DemocratPaul Gullixson columnsPaul GullixsonStrongly argued, fairly clearly reasoned columns that carry the thesis well. In a few places, arguments seemed to run a bit tangentially to the pieces’ overall themes. Length isn’t an issue for readers invested in the topic at hand, but quite likely would be for more casual readers. Great writing and research.
ColumnsHonorable MentionThe Press DemocratLowell Cohn columnsLowell CohnLoved the baseball column. Terrific writing.
ColumnsHonorable MentionThe RecordDanke Schon Stockton and Making amends to ripped off Germans and Was D. B. Cooper in StocktonMichael FitzgeraldNice writing style. Piece on German tourists is sweet and shows off a unique side of the community. DB Cooper columns reveals some rich and fun local history.
ColumnsHonorable MentionThe RecorderThe Moderate Shift at the Ninth CircuitBen FeuerInsightful look at 9th Circuit Court of Appeals change and what that means.
Columns2ndThe Salinas CalifornianLife expectancy is based on where you live // Our poor nutrition is killing usJeff Mitchell
Columns1stThe Sonoma Index-TribuneChanging the Culture of Rape / Daughters of the RevolutionJason WalshExcellent writing and research on what is a little known but serious problem. Well done.
Columns1stThe TribuneJoetopia: The septic system fails AND Pirate’s Cove is a messJoe TaricaFun, well-crafted reads with local flavor. Pirate’s Cove reveals a community problem, while septic system shows a quirk of the area. Lots of fun turns of phrase throughout.
ColumnsHonorable MentionThe UnionIndy 500 champ!; Sierra Harvest changing how we look at foodBrian Hamilton
Columns2ndThe Weekly CalistoganWhen a victim is a member of your familyAnne Ward ErnstAnne Ward Ernst makes violence personal for the reader, providing insight through an effective understated writing style.
ColumnsHonorable MentionThousand Oaks AcornIt’s One Final Mow for Grumps and Vin Made it SingElizabeth Kirby
ColumnsHonorable MentionTimes-Herald, VallejoWhat Trump’s win means is up to youJack F.K. Bungart
Coverage of Business NewsHonorable MentionBig Bear GrizzlyWhite a boost for Big BearKathy Portie
Coverage of Business NewsHonorable MentionEast Bay TimesDelivering … but not to satisfactionAnnie Sciacca
Coverage of Business NewsHonorable MentionLa Cañada Flintridge OutlookAfter 57 Years, Sport Chalet to Close DoorsMirjam SwansonLiked the historical background, placing its significance to community, all the local government voices on what’s next, and the analysis on why failed.
Coverage of Business News1stLos Angeles Downtown NewsAs Downtown’s Retail Scene Booms, Some Worry About the FutureEddie Kim, Senior WriterTons of sourcing. Captures the conflict inherent in boom times and weighs the thin line between boom and bubble.
Coverage of Business NewsHonorable MentionLos Angeles TimesRobot NationNatalie KitroeffAn in-depth look at a major issue facing U.S. workers.
Coverage of Business NewsHonorable MentionMonterey HeraldA tale of two citiesJames Herrera
Coverage of Business News2ndMountain View VoiceRobots rolling in doughMark NoackEngaging writing, interesting topic, comprehensive. Makes me want to go there.
Coverage of Business NewsHonorable MentionNew TimesThe invisiblesChris McGuinnessGood trend-spotting and number-hunting on an important topic.
Coverage of Business NewsHonorable MentionPasadena OutlookChinese Tech Giant Sets Up Shop in PasadenaNick OstillerThis coverage is comprehensive, engaging, timely, and tells the reader why they should care
Coverage of Business News1stRecord SearchlightBurney yelling ’Timber’Alayna ShulmanGreat, thorough look at the impact of the declining lumber industry and how it affects rural towns.
Coverage of Business News1stSan Francisco Business TimesPulling the stagecoach out of the ditchMark CalveyWell written, balanced, insightful with lots of information.
Coverage of Business NewsHonorable MentionSan Francisco Business TimesThe Year of the ApartmentBlanca TorresTimely, well researched, well written look at apartment growth in San Francisco
Coverage of Business News1stSan Francisco ChronicleAs city lowers boom, Airbnb and rivals thriveCarolyn Said, Joaquin PalominoThe Chronicle’s package on Airbnb and other vacation rental operations was a deep dive into a very local issue — the love/hate relationship between Airbnb and its hometown and the impact on the city’s housing supply. The stories are clearly focused on different aspects of the issue, thoroughly reported and well-balanced. I also appreciated that they were told through the experiences of tenants and landlords. The graphics were also quite informative and strong supplements to the stories. Compelling read about an uneasy state of affairs
Coverage of Business News2ndSan Jose Mercury NewsThe Hidden Workforce Expanding Tesla’s FactoryLou HansenWith all the talk of illegal immigration, The Mercury News’ investigation into the B1/B2 visa program – “the wonderful world of unregulated visas” – both timely and impactful. The package shed light on a little-known problem, prompted an immediate response from Tesla and a change in its business operations. That’s what it’s all about. A shocking look at a practice that mostly stays in the shadows.
Coverage of Business News2ndSanta Barbara IndependentIs it High Time? Santa Barbara and the Pot PropTyler HaydenThoroughly reported. Good job getting ahead of an important state-wide issue and tackling the local angle.
Coverage of Business NewsHonorable MentionSanta Barbara IndependentThe Appeal of ApeelMatt KettmannSunny profile of an interesting business. Good secondary sourcing.
Coverage of Business News2ndThe Business JournalConstruction-defect litigation bankrupts Clovis homebuilderGeorge LurieMr. Lurie examines how the state’s business unfriendly laws allowed homeowners up to a decade to file litigation against the story’s General Contractor. Lurie explains in fairly layman’s terms what brought about the crisis and how the owner of Generation Homes struggled to serve his customers, albeit under very difficult circumstances. The author makes the reader feel genuinely sympathetic, but does not wallow in sentimentality, preferring to just relate the facts.
Coverage of Business News1stThe Desert SunBracing for big weedRosalie MurphyGreat look at the ins and outs of the recreational marijuana industry in California, from the conversion of medical businesses to recreational and bringing in illegal growers to the legit side of the business. Covered everything from venture capital investment to the concerns of the mid-size growers looking to expand into a growing market. Lots of stats and data along with people.
Coverage of Business News2ndThe Desert SunBorder Health: the allure of cheap doctors, drugs and dentists in MexicoBarrett NewkirkAn excellent profile contrasting the cost – and allure – of dental and other medical services border residents can receive in Mexico compared to the U.S. And it was summed up well with the final quote by one patient who regularly traverses the border when he said “Our system here is so broken...... this is really a no brainer.” The risks could have been better profiled, but I found the story very interesting from a reader and consumer perspective.
Coverage of Business News2ndThe Fresno BeeValley hospitals spending millions to build pediatric networksBarbara Anderson
Coverage of Business News1stThe Modesto BeeGallo Winery cashing in on MID’s low industrial electricity pricesGarth Stapley
Coverage of Business NewsHonorable MentionThe Mountain EnterpriseAlpine comes crashing downGary Meyer
Coverage of Business NewsHonorable MentionThe Mountain EnterpriseLocal real estate broker accused of ’negligence or incompetence’Gary Meyer and Patric Hedlund
Coverage of Business News2ndThe Napa Valley RegisterFrom Cambodia’s ’killing fields’ to Napa: Life in a doughnut shopJennifer HuffmanGreat read.
Coverage of Business NewsHonorable MentionThe Orange County RegisterSection 8 housingJeff CollinsVery compelling read. Puts the reader in a position to really empathize with your subject.
Coverage of Business NewsHonorable MentionThe Press DemocratFishermen pushed to the breaking pointMary Callahan
Coverage of Business NewsHonorable MentionThe RecordTrauma center fallout and Trauma center hit with and Trauma turmoilJoseph GoldeenI see this series of stories as an example of great public service on behalf of The Record newspaper and reporter Joe Goldeen. It’s a very good series unfolding the story of San Joaquin General Hospital’s failure to meet compliance as a Level III trauma center when it’s shooting to achieve Level II status within a year and objectively highlights for readers what level of confidence the community might have in the hospital administration.
Coverage of Business News1stThe RecorderUber driver settlementBen Hancock
Coverage of Business News2ndThe RecorderLeadership Fight Over the VW Diesel LawsuitRoss Todd
Coverage of Business News1stThe Sonoma Index-TribuneThe Spirits of Wine CountryLorna SheridanAn interesting and informative look at a traditional business with a non-traditional twist. This piece captures the fun and vigor of the Sonoma area, which is resplendent with some of the world’s greatest vineyards, yet according to the article is also seeing an increase if not only the craft beer market, but popularity of the cocktail and organic vodkas as well. Author seems to have an intimate knowledge of her subject, but utilizes her sources well.
Coverage of Business NewsHonorable MentionThe TribuneFarm SupplyJulie LynemA very good business profile feature of a local company that went from the verge of bankruptcy to becoming a staple of the community.
Coverage of Business NewsHonorable MentionThe UnionHotels over homes? Affordable housing clashes with economic development in Grass ValleyTeresa Yingmeng Liu; Laura MahaffyInteresting read. The last few graphs really sum everything up.
Coverage of EducationHonorable MentionAmerican Canyon EagleParents seek overhaul of NVUSD lunch programNoel BrinkerhoffA great look at the battle for better school lunches over a year. The point that low-income students have to eat it more is important. Well-written.
Coverage of Education1stAuburn JournalThree stories covering different aspects of educationTricia CaspersThoughtful coverage of three distinctly different aspects of education, made stronger by solid reporting and clear writing.
Coverage of Education2ndBig Bear GrizzlyGiving Big Bear students a healthy start in schoolKathy PortieGood feature that explores the trouble plaguing poor students in school and how a specialized programs tries to help them overcome obstacles.
Coverage of Education2ndLos Angeles Daily NewsEl Camino Real charter school seriesDaily News staffFantastic work unearthing this story, and presenting it with various links to receipts and relevant coverage. This piece could have also been put forth as a solid entry in the investigative category.
Coverage of Education2ndLos Angeles TimesEducation Coverage: Anna M. PhillipsAnna M. PhillipsMs. Phillips does an amazing job of bringing the reader a new perspective on the life of a school administrator. Whoever thought a principal would need to be a private investigator tracking down 3 more students? Phillips’ series is well rounded and touches the reader as they learn about the passion of educators, inability to afford housing near work and the struggle to attract students. Outstanding work.
Coverage of EducationHonorable MentionLos Angeles TimesEducation Coverage: Teresa WatanabeTeresa Watanabe
Coverage of Education2ndMarin Independent JournalOf the Old SchoolJanis MaraThis story takes us right into a one-room school house. In the first few paragraphs, we hear the teacher talk to her lone fourth-grader, then move seamlessly on to her other students, giving them all different assignments. Strong writing that gives us a short history of one-room school houses and lets us see, rather than only telling us, the advantages they bring and challenges they face.
Coverage of EducationHonorable MentionMarin Independent JournalRenewed scrutiny on charter schoolMark PradoStrong investigative piece examining whether a local charter school is getting more than its share of funds. This is local journalism doing what it should do: holding our school officials accountable for how they spend money.
Coverage of Education2ndMerced Sun-StarCoverage of Merced College administrationThaddeus MillerDogged reporting and clean writing about an unresponsive secondary school’s relationship with local law enforcement.
Coverage of Education2ndMountain View VoiceA not-so-seamless summer for hungry kidsKevin ForestieriNice start, great subject, a variety of sources.
Coverage of EducationHonorable MentionMountain View VoiceTeacher shortage still a big problemKevin Forestieri
Coverage of Education2ndNew TimesOut in the openPeter JohnsonContains depth of reporting and excellent writing while exploring the lack of diversity on campus and its implications.
Coverage of Education1stPalo Alto WeeklyA case of bullyingElena KadvanyOutstanding exploration of bullying on personal and policy levels for a school district.
Coverage of EducationHonorable MentionRecord SearchlightOne STEP at a timeJenny EspinoWhile this type of program is not new, the reporter’s sensitive coverage and number of sources made this a strong entry.
Coverage of EducationHonorable MentionSan Jose Mercury News70 mile commutes to high schoolSharon Noguchi
Coverage of EducationHonorable MentionSan Marino TribuneAll In the FamilyMitch LehmanIntriguing look inside the training and education of a marching band. thoughtful and well crafted.
Coverage of EducationHonorable MentionSanta Barbara IndependentCity College Pledges Two Free Years for Santa Barbara GradsKeith HammGood feature on a groundbreaking change in community college education and what it could mean for the school and possibly beyond in the state.
Coverage of EducationHonorable MentionSanta Maria SunThe bully effectBrenna Swanston
Coverage of EducationHonorable MentionSanta Maria TimesOAHS mulls attendance policies after citationGina KimGood reporting on an important — and under-reported — issue.
Coverage of EducationHonorable MentionThe AcornDear reader: Technology erases the beautiful art of handwritingStephanie Bertholdo, John LoesingInteresting look at a dying aspect of K-12 education in the technology era.
Coverage of Education1stThe AlmanacSeparate & unequal: Proposal aims to narrow wide education equity gap in local schoolsBarbara WoodReally good. Great data comparisons, obviously did some digging for significant facts (differennce in teacher pay). Missing parental outrage, could use some more voices,or personal illustrations
Coverage of Education2ndThe ArkEmotional students, parents make plea …Matthew HoseGreat job of providing an emotional context without editorializing or personal narration.
Coverage of EducationHonorable MentionThe ArkSchool vaccination lawsKevin Hessel, Deirdre McCrohan and Carly NairnGood, thoughtful, objective look at an issue that shouldn’t be political but is.
Coverage of EducationHonorable MentionThe Bakersfield CalifornianCoverage of the Kern High School DistrictHarold PierceA “bloody year” indeed. Where to begin? From guns in the classroom, to “personal vendettas” in awarding contracts, to the settlement in the beating case, to transgender bathrooms, rise of STDs, and on to the financial backers of the bond measure already awarded $140 million in work ... it’s quite shocking the number of issues at Kern High School District — also shocking is the arrogance and hubris exhibited by school officials. Incredible and important work. Congratulations!
Coverage of EducationHonorable MentionThe Bakersfield CalifornianUncredentialed school administrator earning six-figure salaryHarold PierceImportant work that proved to be integral in the outcome of this investigation — drawing outrage from the school community that ultimately led to resignation. This coverage would also be a solid investigative reporting entry. The scope of the coverage also did a great job of not only evaluating the administrator who eventually resigned, but also how the school officials and board members responsible performed in their roles. Fantastic reporting and concise, easy to follow writing. Congrats!
Coverage of EducationHonorable MentionThe Business JournalValley schools exploring handgun policies for staffHannah EsquedaWell-reported and written story on a subject not explored by many school districts.
Coverage of Education1stThe CambrianCoverage of Coast Unified School District in CambriaIf More than 3 names type: StaffThis story offered a fair, informative and balanced view of a controversial subject in a way that was also a great read. Good amounts of background mixed with quotes to propel the story and provide different views of the argument without editorializing. Well done!
Coverage of Education1stThe Davis EnterpriseKatehi resignsTanya Perez and Felicia AlvarezTop-notch breaking news reporting with companion reporting that fully fleshes out the story.
Coverage of Education1stThe Desert SunEducation divideKristen Hwang, Robert Hopwood”Education Divide” strongly addresses a pervasive problem in education: how to teach children who come to school with different resources. The story clearly outlines the disadvantages students face if they live in poverty or if English is not their first language. Strong lede outlines at the outset what those disadvantages include. Good use of graphics.
Coverage of EducationHonorable MentionThe Desert SunCareer tech edKristen HwangGood mix of voices, as we hear from students, teachers, administrators and experts.
Coverage of Education1stThe Fresno BeeLocal school districts do little to protect themselves from conflicted advisersRory AppletonComprehensive explanation on how school districts could be susceptible to such conflicts of interest in consulting work. The story not only explained how Bradley worked both sides, but also how school districts seemingly leave themselves open to such conflicts.
Coverage of Education1stThe San Diego Union-TribuneStories about charter schoolsMaureen MageeThis series is amazing. Ms. Magee digs into the corruption charter school legislation has brought to the school system vividly. With superintendents making commission and pleading guilty to felonies. Amazing series that details the need for charter school reform. Great work.
Coverage of Local GovernmentHonorable MentionChico News & ReviewBoulevard brouhahaStaffVery thorough reporting. I liked the graphic as well as the history of the Esplanade. And I thought the idea of taking an imaginary ride down the improved street was a great addition to help visualize it.
Coverage of Local Government2ndDana Point TimesBallot IssuesMatt Cortina, Kristina PritchettExcellent entry. This is a great example of coverage of local government with a focus on informing and educating the reader. The photos brought the package to life, and the story was well-organized. Nice job.
Coverage of Local GovernmentHonorable MentionEast Bay TimesPittsburg police department scandalMatthias Gafni
Coverage of Local Government2ndLos Angeles TimesBig Money, Unlikely DonorsLos Angeles Times StaffThese stories didn’t just uncover a campaign finance and bribery scheme, it showed the brazen, arrogant, shamelessness at play when big money meets big power. What makes these stories so impressive is the gumshoe persistence of the reporters who tracked down the many campaign contributors and got several to talk.
Coverage of Local GovernmentHonorable MentionMountain View VoiceBattle over rent control in Mountain ViewMark Noack, Andrea GemmetConcise, well-written, informative articles with a good variety of perspectives on an important issue leading up to and beyond the election.
Coverage of Local GovernmentHonorable MentionNew TimesNo easy fixPeter Johnson
Coverage of Local Government2ndNorth Bay BohemianCrude AwakeningStaffThe longest single article in this category, the most informative, and the best writing.
Coverage of Local Government2ndPalo Alto WeeklyHuge political contributions spark outcry, suspicionGennady SheynerReally good watchdog stuff.
Coverage of Local GovernmentHonorable MentionPalos Verdes Peninsula NewsLunada Bay Boys and Palos Verdes EstatesEd Pilolla, Megan Barnes, Cynthia WashickoVery interesting journalistic effort especially considering the size of the staff and even without taking that into account.
Coverage of Local GovernmentHonorable MentionRecord SearchlightCleaning ReddingJenny Espino, Nathan SolisNice day-in-the-life perspective of a code enforcement officer and description of some of the issues that affect your town.
Coverage of Local GovernmentHonorable MentionSan Francisco ExaminerDark Money: Outside Influence in San Francisco Supervisor RacesJoshua Sabatini, Michael BarbaThis series takes on the big and important topic of independent expenditures.
Coverage of Local Government1stSan Jose Mercury NewsDrug DocsKaren De Sa and Tracy SeipelThese stories deserve first place because the reporters uncovered a disturbing practice aimed at a vulnerable and forgotten population. The discoveries shock the conscience. Most impressive was that the reporters had to gain an understanding of the practice of medicine and were able to explain the medical, psychological and ethical problems at play in clear and understandable terms. They also painted a picture of the human condition that touched the heart.
Coverage of Local GovernmentHonorable MentionSanta Cruz SentinelCouncilman reprimanded for illegal secondary residenceJessica A. YorkThe quintessential Santa Cruz local governance series. Kudos.
Coverage of Local GovernmentHonorable MentionSierra StarCounty continues to work with hotel developerBrian WilkinsonNice job exploring why the hotels were taking so long to get built at a time when the developer didn’t really cooperate. Was glad to see the info hinting at how much hotel tax revenue was at stake, but I might have put it earlier in the story, as it shows locals there’s more to this problem than not having rooms for out-of-towners.
Coverage of Local Government1stThe AlmanacHow local resident fights aircraft noise in small claims court (5 stories)Barbara WoodEffective and reader-friendly with the five related pieces in a great lay-out on two pages. The writing is all good, and the on-site reporting brings it home. Many of the entries in this category are much longer single articles or series done over time, but this stands out for being both concise and informative. Also stands out for use of graphic elements.
Coverage of Local Government1stThe ArkRiders save Route 8 commuter busMatthew HoseGreat look at citizens’ efforts to save their bus route from elimination. I liked that the reporter made sure to take the time to ride the route a few times, as well.
Coverage of Local GovernmentHonorable MentionThe ArkDeer sterlization debateMatthew HoseA three-part series about deer having their ovaries removed in some citizen’s garage ended up being one of the oddest things I’ve read in a while — in a good way! Great job getting to the bottom of the science while navigating the subjectivity of whether there really is a deer “problem.”
Coverage of Local GovernmentHonorable MentionThe Daily IndependentRidgecrest Casino seriesJessica Weston, Aaron CrutchfieldGood government reporting about the casino proposal.
Coverage of Local GovernmentHonorable MentionThe Davis EnterpriseOutside money in state senate and state assembly racesAnne Ternus-BellamyThis is an important issue, covered during a particularly busy time of year for newsrooms. I appreciated the analysis and hard data that is sometimes difficult to communicate in a clear, concise way. Nice work on your series of stories.
Coverage of Local GovernmentHonorable MentionThe Davis EnterpriseCounty outlines reforms in child welfare servicesAnne Ternus-BellamyReally important topic, and excellent job at bringing the human element into it. I thought it was sectioned off in a thoughtful way and kept the reader’s attention throughout. My only criticism is I wish there had been bigger play on the package, with more thought on potential art/graphics.
Coverage of Local Government2ndThe Modesto BeeTurlock farmers market controversyGarth StapleyA very interesting, well reported and nicely written look into a clash over management of a farmers market in this small Central California city. The writer draws the reader in with a nice introduction profiling the city’s young mayor. The story explains the contested issues clearly and gives those on all sides of the disagreement a fair say.
Coverage of Local GovernmentHonorable MentionThe Orange County RegisterOrange County Justice in CrisisStaff
Coverage of Local Government1stThe Press DemocratSanta Rosa aims to be epicenter of legal pot industryKevin McCallumThorough overview of an emerging issues – medical and recreational pot regulation – in the city. The reporter sets up the issues clearly and with no apparent bias. The reporting and sourcing are deep and fair; the writing inviting and lean. The story doesn’t purport to be an investigative series, but is an excellent explainer piece on an issue of high local interest. Terrific A1 photo.
Coverage of Local GovernmentHonorable MentionThe RecordRecovery still a struggle, Other cities seek advice and Restricted payrollRoger PhillipsSolid dive into the numbers with context. Keeps an important local story fresh and on the front-burner.
Coverage of Local GovernmentHonorable MentionThe Sacramento BeeSacramento police shootingsAnita Chabria, Phillip Reese, Cynthia Hubert
Coverage of Local Government2ndThe TribuneThird District race turns sour amid accusations of online “trolling”Kaytlyn LeslieClear-eyed reporting on an interesting topic in elections coverage. A sad, but entertaining portrait of local campaigning and dirty tricks in the digital age.
Coverage of Local Government2ndThe Trinity JournalTrinity Hospital skilled nursing facilityAmy GittelsohnThe writer did a great job securing the report that led to the skilled nursing facility’s closure and in talking with clients about the care they’d received.
Coverage of Local Government2ndThe UnionMarijuana in Nevada CountyAlan RiquelmyGood, comprehensive coverage of the pros and cons (and other layers) related to marijuana growth and following up with the measure from beginning to end. Nice layout.
Coverage of Local Government1stThousand Oaks AcornThe termination of Scott MitnickKyle Jorrey, Becca WhitnallI loved this story! Great use of the Public Records Act to promote watchdog journalism. And the writers — perhaps in consultation with their editors — wisely kept the approach straight-forward, recognizing that stories as wild as this one pretty much write themselves.
Coverage of Local Government1stTurlock JournalFarmers market seriesKristina Hacker, Sabra Stafford, Angelina MartinExcellent look at an important issue. I commend you on picking a topic that clearly impacts your community, then following it through with various looks during the different stages. Very comprehensive and cohesive. Also, the use of photos and other graphic elements made the presentation a good one.
Coverage of Local Government1stUkiah Daily JournalTime to stop the revolving doorJustine Frederiksen, Chris PughGood ground work by the reporter, taking the reader along to the street, the hospital and the jail while also providing an informative and compassionate account about the issue affecting mental health/substance abuse patients and the need for a secure mental health facility.
Coverage of Local Government1stVentura County StarThousand Oaks city manager firedMike Harris and Wendy LeungTerrific public records reporting uncovered some nefarious practices and took down a city manager. Government reporting at its best. Where there’s smoke ... make a public records request.
Editorial CartoonHonorable MentionLedger DispatchThe Green RushRob BrantFunny. I like this one. We’ll see more like this.
Editorial Cartoon1stLos Angeles Downtown NewsElection DayDoug DavisCartoon should make people stop and think. It makes its point simply and has a fresh approach. Clean, good message, without choosing sides.
Editorial Cartoon1stLos Angeles TimesFake NewsDavid Horsey
Editorial CartoonHonorable MentionLos Angeles TimesChampagneDavid Horsey
Editorial Cartoon1stMarin Independent JournalBack to school fashionsGeorge RussellStylish art work, very clear in making its point. This cartoon was funny and timely.
Editorial Cartoon2ndSt. Helena StarGrieving for those we never knew ...Mason McCartyUnderstated and elegant. Nicely done.
Editorial Cartoon2ndThe Fresno BeeCalifornia RainSW Parra
Editorial CartoonHonorable MentionThe Fresno BeeTrump WinsSW Parra
Editorial CartoonHonorable MentionThe Napa Valley RegisterRoberto Tinoco editorial cartoon: Nov. 26, 2016Roberto Tinoco
Editorial CartoonHonorable MentionThe Napa Valley RegisterRoberto Tinoco editorial cartoon: April 23, 2016Roberto Tinoco
Editorial CartoonHonorable MentionThe RecorderSay It Ain’t SoGeorge RiemannNicely done comment in tough situation
Editorial Cartoon2ndThe UnionIt takes a village idiotR.L. CrabbDetailed art, nice use of color.
Editorial CommentHonorable MentionChico Enterprise-RecordCounty has spent $600K on losing fightDavid Little, Steve Schoonover, Laura UrsenyA well-argued call for local government transparency. Paper does a fine job as a public watchdog, and very nice comparison to the supermarkets.
Editorial Comment1stDel Norte TriplicateCaltrans’ callous attitude toward safety on U.S. 101Triplicate Editorial BoardWonderful, forceful piece taking Caltrans to task for its decisions by metrics. What I most like was analyzing when the consultant study took place, and pointing out that Dollar General underestimated the number of customers so it wouldn’t have to pay for road improvements. Just a strong editorial all the way around.
Editorial CommentHonorable MentionDel Norte TriplicateParks not the good neighbor we thought they wereTriplicate Editorial BoardIt’s a bit of civic boosterism, but it also makes a good case that the park service needs to take more into consideration than it has when making this critical decision.
Editorial Comment2ndEast Bay TimesContra Costa District Attorney should resignDaniel Borenstein
Editorial CommentHonorable MentionEast Bay TimesReject BART’s Measure RR high-pressure sales pitchDaniel Borenstein
Editorial CommentHonorable MentionHalf Moon Bay ReviewHalf Moon Bay editorialClay Lambert
Editorial CommentHonorable MentionLos Angeles Downtown NewsThankful for the Right to ProtestSue Laris & Jon RegardieGood and inspiring call to get involved.
Editorial CommentHonorable MentionLos Angeles Downtown NewsDesperately Wanted: More Candidates for Citywide OfficeSue Laris & Jon RegardieExcellent, clear call to action: Someone please run for office!
Editorial Comment2ndLos Angeles TimesAttacking a Cop: A Hate Crime?Michael McGoughA courageous and well written appeal to readers not to lose their head in the emotional aftermath of police offers’ slayings. Well reasoned opinion that also does a good job of explaining what a hate crime really is and takes an important stand on a controversial subject.
Editorial Comment1stLos Banos EnterpriseJones should quit school boardMike Dunbar
Editorial Comment1stMerced Sun-StarOpinski, Jones must quit board positions without delayMike DunbarGood editorials take a strong position on things of great local interest and back those opinions with facts. This editorial hit on all those points and was well-written and straight to the point.
Editorial CommentHonorable MentionMerced Sun-StarWalsh isn’t suited to lead MC into futureMike DunbarThis is local watch-dog journalism at its best with the newspaper taking a strong stand on what it sees as unethical and perhaps criminal behavior. Strong writing about an important local subject.
Editorial CommentHonorable MentionMountain View VoiceCity’s refusal to release applications wrongheadedRenee BattiThis editorial blasts Mountain View City Council for its failure to disclose three of five pages of applications from 22 seekers of seats on the Rental Housing Committee — under the misapplication of a 1996 state court decision that background information of these applicants somehow reflect “deliverative or decision-making processes” of the council.
Editorial Comment1stPalo Alto WeeklyStanford’s deafening silenceBill Johnson, PublisherThe editorial “Stanford’s deafening silence” stood out for its clarity and persuasive arguments. The Palo Alto Weekly showed courage in taking on a powerful local institution, and the editorial board laid out a strong case detailing Stanford’s missteps and an assortment of missed opportunities. The editorial was strengthened by reporting. Instead of just criticizing from afar, the weekly sought an explanation from a university official and gave her a chance to have her say. Strong, constructive criticism of university officials with a clear challenge for them to change.
Editorial CommentHonorable MentionPetaluma Argus-CourierSales tax should be for streetsStaffYou don’t often see newspapers advocating taxes, but they make a strong case for a sales tax for roads.
Editorial Comment2ndPleasanton WeeklyVote no on Measure MMGina Channell, Jeb BingThe editorial took strong positions on four ballot measures but did so with persuasive arguments buoyed by ample details and facts.
Editorial Comment1stSan Francisco Business TimesGeneration next: San Francisco’s housing market is eating its youngJim GardnerThe San Francisco Business Times submitted three editorials. Together they present a reasoned, impassioned and forceful position on the Bay Area’s housing crisis.
Editorial Comment1stSan Francisco ChronicleA civic disgrace: Editorial on S.F. homelessnessJohn DiazThis editorial perfectly blends outrage and reason in its appeal for the kind of comprehensive, massive assault on homelessness that San Francisco obviously needs. It is the perfect denouement to a series that explored this heartbreaking social problem. To the point and well-argued. Plenty of reason for taxpayers to be concerned and advocates to be frustrated. Change is a must and this editorial provides good guidance.
Editorial CommentHonorable MentionSt. Helena StarWhen democracy goes wrongStaffStrong tie federal to local, offers a solution.
Editorial CommentHonorable MentionThe AlmanacSupervisors’ rushed appointment of sheriff a bad decisionRenee Batti
Editorial Comment2ndThe Camarillo AcornSeeking straight talk, not pillow talkDaniel WolowiczGreat example and explanation of why we need newspapers to help keep public records available to the public.
Editorial Comment2ndThe Davis EnterpriseKatehi runs out of excusesSebastian OñateGood overview and analysis.
Editorial Comment1stThe Fresno BeeSpineless delay in slumlord fight by Fresno City CouncilBill McEwen
Editorial CommentHonorable MentionThe Modesto BeeIf the state carries out its plan, our region will sufferMike Dunbar
Editorial Comment2ndThe Napa Valley RegisterBind up the nation’s woundsStaffConnecting the current to past American history resulted in a timely and well-focused editorial that gets to the point of the problem.
Editorial Comment2ndThe RecordIt is timeMike KlockeA smart, sharp and well-reasoned editorial on an issue of utmost local importance. The arguments laid out here are simple, direct, efficient and irrefutable. This newspaper does its duty to the community.
Editorial CommentHonorable MentionThe Sacramento BeeCalifornia to Trump: America can’t afford for us to failShawn Hubler
Editorial CommentHonorable MentionThe San Diego Union-TribuneStop saying Donald Trump can’t win. He can.Staff
Editorial Comment1stThe TribuneLooking for help in a post-Diablo Canyon economyStaffAn extremely well-researched and thoughtful editorial. Not only does the editorial board take a stand, they search for facts from around the country to support it. This is long but never dull and provides an important service to its readers as it preppies them for the future.
Editorial Comment2ndThe Trinity JournalTrinity would be better servedWayne R. AgnerStrong.
Editorial CommentHonorable MentionTimes-StandardThe buck stops with Brius and RockportMarc VallesStrong stand on an issue of wide interest with the country’s aging population. This was well-written and backed strong opinions with facts.
Editorial CommentHonorable MentionVentura County StarMike Morgan was wrong to hide fiesta dealJohn MooreThis takes a local official to task, and is a wise call for transparency and honesty. Other publications might have been mean spirited. Here the tone is direct and effective. As you read, you nod along in agreement.
Enterprise News Story or Series1stAmerican Canyon EagleTraffic: A tale of two familiesNoel BrinkerhoffThis entry is distinguished by detailed reporting and an original way to frame the story. Traffic, despite its importance, can be awfully dull reading. This went beyond the routine.
Enterprise News Story or SeriesHonorable MentionBlack Voice NewsMerchants of RiversideStaffNice presentation and photos in this engaging look at small businesses and the people behind them. Smart design and sharply written copy aid in offering a reader-friendly glimpse into what drives the folks who make the local economy healthy and unique.
Enterprise News Story or SeriesHonorable MentionBurbank LeaderSpate of gang violence renews past concernsAlene TchekmedyianStrong coverage that made a difference. Cleanly written, with excellent use of crime stats to weave a compelling narrative.
Enterprise News Story or SeriesHonorable MentionChico Enterprise-RecordOverdose NationAshiah Scharaga
Enterprise News Story or SeriesHonorable MentionDaily BreezeLunada Bay Boys surf localismMegan Barnes, Cynthia Washicko, Ed PilollaLove all the different angles used to cover essentially the same story. Research into the legal docs really made this story. Love the local feel.
Enterprise News Story or SeriesHonorable MentionLake County Record-BeeTroubled BridgesKen R. WellsA classic enterprise reporting story and a job well done. The accompanying list of bridges is good information for local readers.
Enterprise News Story or SeriesHonorable MentionLos Angeles Downtown NewsThe Overlooked Homelessness Crisis: How a Shocking Number of Women Wound Up on the StreetsStaffGood work putting the spotlight on an under-reported problem. Lots of input form a variety of sources.
Enterprise News Story or Series1stLos Angeles TimesCalifornia’s Pension CrisisLos Angeles Times, CALmatters and Capital Public RadioThe epic idiocy of California’s pension decisions during the Davis administration have been well documented and obsessively reported for more than a decade. Still, here, the Los Angeles Times reminds us of the ongoing public cost of those decisions and the growing disparity between the futures available to the working joe and the government elite.
Enterprise News Story or Series1stMerced Sun-StarLack of access to health care in Merced CountyMonica VelezThe reporter did excellent job identifying and humanize a real problem, in compelling reporting and writing.
Enterprise News Story or Series2ndMetro Silicon ValleySo You Think You Can HelpJennifer WadsworthLots of information from multiple sources with different views about how to solve the problem of homelessness. Deep interviews. Interviews with homeless people in addition to activists. The lede anecdote was a great example of tension between competing views. A wonderfully balanced look at what can happen when a community tries to help, causing another set of problems.
Enterprise News Story or Series2ndMount Shasta HeraldLiving on the streets in Mount ShastaPaul BoergerThe writer has a good ear for quotes while producing solid stories of value to local readers.
Enterprise News Story or SeriesHonorable MentionMountain View VoiceOut of balance: a look at the job growth driving Silicon Valley’s housing crisis (series)Kevin Forestieri, Mark Noack, Andrea GemmetComprehensive coverage of a vital issue, written fairly, with a good range of sources and excellent use of statistics. Well done.
Enterprise News Story or SeriesHonorable MentionPalo Alto WeeklyHigh price to payGennady SheynerGood idea for a story, and the research is in-depth. Solid work on a critical but complex local issue.
Enterprise News Story or Series2ndPalos Verdes Peninsula NewsLunada Bay Boys and Palos Verdes EstatesEd Pilolla, Megan Barnes, Cynthia WashickoGreat investigative series that any newspaper would be proud of, with clear writing, good sourcing, and effective use of public records requests to hold public officials accountable.
Enterprise News Story or Series2ndPetaluma Argus-CourierReining in vacation rentals, plus 2 more storiesEric GneckowA well-reported and thoughtful examination of a problematic issue. Nice work balancing the nuances involved, and offering readers an in-depth look at how the issue affects individual people and the community at large.
Enterprise News Story or Series1stSacramento News & ReviewArt, race and moneyJanelle BitkerWhite wall anecdote to lede the story was fantastic. It captured my interest and drew me right in even though I don’t normally read stories about art or racial issues. The writing style was lively, and the story felt like it kept moving throughout. It never slowed down too much. Great job interviewing lots of different types of players, including artists, gallery managers and a public agency rep. Really interesting look at the art world, usually the subject of fluffy features. Excellent drilling down on an uncomfortable issue.
Enterprise News Story or SeriesHonorable MentionSan Francisco ChronicleBeyond Homelessness and the SF Homeless ProjectStaffThe Chronicle crafted an obsessively reported investigation. It goes beyond the other entrants to this category’s commitment to the topic. It identifies a solution to the problem it documents and backs the solution up with informed reporting. Intimate stories of the afflicted abound but the reporters and editors do not get mired in melodrama. Photos and graphics empower the narrative. And the Chronicle takes a commercial risk and recruits a legion of media competitors to press for action.
Enterprise News Story or SeriesHonorable MentionSan Marino TribuneFighting Fire With PracticeKevork KurdoghlianA very readable look into everyday challenges faced by local firefighters. The dramatic, first-person approach worked well to draw the reader in to a story that otherwise might have gotten bogged down in less interesting detail.
Enterprise News Story or Series1stSanta Maria SunOut of the shadowsJoe PayneThorough reporting, smooth writing, and excellent coverage of a sensitive topic. No sensationalism or sentimentality, just letting the sources and the facts speak for themselves. Bravo.
Enterprise News Story or SeriesHonorable MentionThe ArkBelvedere flood rulesMatthew HoseThe writer tackled a difficult and highly technical topic. It’s an example of serving local readers with a detailed report on a local issue.
Enterprise News Story or Series1stThe Desert SunTribal landsRosalie Murphy, Jay Calderon, Robert HopwoodArtful stories that combine the usually dry facts of land ownership (but they’re not here) with very human stories. The series is also notable for casting a light on unsavory practices of the past. This probably was an eye-opener for many readers.
Enterprise News Story or Series2ndThe Modesto BeeThink MID’s rates are low? You’d better think againGarth StapleyTerrific consumer reporting, identifying inequities in the system in a way that is transparent about its methodology and offers alternative viewpoints. This is the kind of reporting the public needs its news organizations to pursue. Terrific research and a real service to residents. Love the graphics and illustrations.
Enterprise News Story or SeriesHonorable MentionThe Modesto BeeEx-convict urges former Stanislaus clerk-recorder to come cleanGarth StapleyA true enterprise story. Beautifully written and researched. Well done.
Enterprise News Story or Series2ndThe Orange County RegisterHomelessness in Orange CountyTheresa Walker, David Whiting, Jordan GrahamExcellent color and description. Profiles/articles are well focused and thorough, with compelling, even gripping, detail. The Register made the struggle of the homeless in Orange County real and intimate to its readers. It documented the beginnings of solution and the stories of the afflicted and those who try to help them.
Enterprise News Story or Series1stThe Press DemocratValley fire: One year laterStaffA thorough update on a tragic community event, told with compassion and attention to the lessons learned and the hurt and anguish still being experienced. Well reported, well written and well edited. Great job all around.
Enterprise News Story or SeriesHonorable MentionThe RecordPolice train and Sometimes she forgets and When mental healthRoger PhillipsWritten with precision and compassion, these stories put us in the middle of sad and compelling scenes.
Enterprise News Story or SeriesHonorable MentionThe RecorderThreat LevelRebecca Cohen and Lizzy McLellanSmart local angle on a worldwide story.
Enterprise News Story or SeriesHonorable MentionThe San Diego Union-TribuneBorder wall seriesStaffWith this series the San Diego Union Tribune made the border between the United States and Mexico a living character for the reader. It’s a being with history, culture and pathos and understanding it lends a compelling insight into the larger issues of immigration that trouble both nations.
Enterprise News Story or Series1stThe Sonoma Index-TribuneSpotlight on HousingStaffAn ambitious, well-executed effort to explain a complex and significant local issue from a variety of perspectives. Smartly conceived and well-written.
Enterprise News Story or Series2ndThe TribuneDiablo Canyon’s road to closure 4-day series + editorial + settlement storyStephanie Finucane, Kaytlyn LeslieThis is what good community journalism is all about. This useful series offers new and practical information to a region undergoing economic change. It is an impressive investment of resources, to the benefit of readers and their elected officials. This entry is distinguished by an innovative angle and by its blend of the technical with the human. The devotion of resources to such a project is commendable.
Enterprise News Story or Series2ndThe UnionColorado goes first; Bakin’ a mile high; Decision on Prop 64Alan RiquelmySending a reporter to nearby Colorado two weeks before the California marijuana vote brought local sensibilities to a state issue and gave voters real information from a state where pot is legal.
Enterprise News Story or SeriesHonorable MentionThe UnionJan. 10, 2001Alan RiquelmyGreat package that is both forward looking and backward looking, at an incident that shook a community, but also led to a new law. The package sets the stage for a debate around the sunset of Laura’s law in 2017.
Environmental ReportingHonorable MentionAppeal-DemocratWater Rights BattleJake AbbottBy far the best. Three-part series has a complete history of a water battle going back 100 years and it explains two legal battles over water rights and revenue. Outstanding reporting and well written.
Environmental Reporting1stLos Angeles Daily NewsPorter Ranch gas leakDaily News staffGreat environmental piece that also exposes possible dangerous health hazards to the people of Porter Ranch.
Environmental Reporting1stHalf Moon Bay ReviewThe crumbling CoastsideCarina Woudenberg and Bill MurrayWell written and informative about an issue of major local and larger importance. Good use of art to enhance story. Concise and easy to absorb.
Environmental ReportingHonorable MentionLa Cañada Flintridge OutlookIngenuity of ex-LCHS Science Enthusiasts is RecognizedMirjam SwansonThe writer of this article received great responses through sources, as they showed some personality to interest the reader.
Environmental ReportingHonorable MentionLa Jolla LightWhat are we swimming in? A look at the waters off the coast of La JollaMaria Jose DuranExcellent science reporting without being overbearing on public problem. Makes what could be complex, understandable, and of interest to public.
Environmental Reporting1stLos Angeles TimesU2’s The Edge and His Fight to Build in MalibuJack DolanJack Dolan’s piece on Sweetwater Mesa and The Edge does a phenomenal job of condensing a complex issue into an easy-to-digest feature. The subject matter is fascinating by itself because of the celebrity involved, but Dolan’s explanation of the complex issues surrounding development on the California Coast, along with his introduction of characters such as Peter M. Douglas, help hold on to the reader’s attention.
Environmental ReportingHonorable MentionLos Angeles TimesChain Saw SerenadeThomas CurwenThomas Curwen’s engaging and informative piece on the business of hauling off dying trees in the Sierra Nevada is filled with stunning imagery that makes a potentially bland subject come alive. He grabs readers with strong language and interesting characters, before introducing the conflict of overcrowded forests. It’s a fantastic read.
Environmental ReportingHonorable MentionMarin Independent JournalMarin Recyclers in Economic ViseRichard HalsteadWhat a shocking story! This may impact recycling in a huge way. Very well written and informative, with a lot of information packed into a relatively small space. Although there were other entries that simply were far more detailed and researched, this story was my personal favorite because it sparked so many questions about what will happen to all this plastic if no one is willing to recycle it. I want to read “Part Two”... the sign of a great story!
Environmental ReportingHonorable MentionMariposa GazetteLog sitesGreg Little
Environmental ReportingHonorable MentionMetro Silicon ValleyGlocal WarmingJennifer Wadsworth
Environmental ReportingHonorable MentionMonterey County WeeklyReporting on the Cemex plant in Marina, the nation’s only remaining coastal sand mine.David SchmalzExcellent reporting, interesting issue. Well done.
Environmental Reporting1stMonterey HeraldRiver in Recovery?Jim JohnsonStrong report on prospects for Carmel River’s recovery. Does a good job of pulling the reader in with descriptive scene and then pulling back to explore land and policy details.
Environmental Reporting2ndMonterey HeraldChanging the course of the Carmel River’s futureJames HerreraExhaustive report on the local commitment to restoring the Carmel River. Does a good job of documenting the money and policies of the local jurisdiction.
Environmental Reporting1stNorth Bay BohemianOf Water and WineStaffSuperb reporting and discussion. Nice bringing in people and history, conflicts of ag and business and environment. Complex, hugely timely, and applicable to much of CA. Thank you.
Environmental Reporting2ndNorth Coast JournalUntil the Sun SetsThadeus GreensonThis story could be #1, both are excellent. Hugely complex story and history marvelously clearly explained, technically as well as politically. Fantastic job. I learned a lot. Now we can fear for the future.
Environmental ReportingHonorable MentionPacific SunBeef of burdenTom GogolaReally nice story that is able to keep the ambiguity in the different positions in perspective without taking sides. Difficult job to do when lawsuits are involved, Important problem — governing for multiple uses.
Environmental Reporting1stPalo Alto WeeklyIn pursuit of a plagueSue DremannThis story manages to provide a comprehensive understanding of a hard-to-understand subject while framing the narrative in a way that maintains enough intrigue to get even a science-ignorant reader through to the last paragraph. Sure, it only gets more bleak as it goes along, but by the end, enough information has been shared to make the reader feel like they at least know what they are facing.
Environmental Reporting1stPetaluma Argus-CourierToilet to TankEric GneckowThis well-written article shows all kinds of stories within the topic itself, and to have an ongoing series about this topic would be intriguing! I also enjoyed learning about the economic and community impact of this project, and the journalist provided a great tour of this facility with detailed facts and sources. I loved the depth of this article and because of it, it could pull off as evergreen content.
Environmental Reporting2ndSacramento News & ReviewCalifornia’s war on bugsAlastair BlandIt becomes more and more clear while reading this article how much there is still left to learn about the effects of insecticides, and where priorities should fall. It is therefore very wise to not elevate anybody as the all-knowing expert. People with different voices and different places in the environmental world are given equal treatment here, allowing all sides of this complex issue to be respected, and giving the reader a chance to contemplate the various effects is has on real people.
Environmental Reporting2ndSan Francisco ChronicleRising RealityJohn KingJohn King’s series on rising sea levels due to climate change and the effects on San Francisco paint a clear picture of what the future could hold for the Bay Area. The tension between local and state government is made clear, and the the reporting itself is enhanced by the wonderful maps, graphics and charts that accompany King’s work.
Environmental Reporting2ndThe Ark$1.37 million cleanup …Gretchen Lang & Elliot KarlanInteresting, well-formed story. Touches on history, local and larger environmental issues, conflict between progress and a community holding on to something it values for historic purposes.
Environmental ReportingHonorable MentionThe ArkResearchers plant endangered jewelflower …Gretchen LangPretty good. It’s a small story about a focused effort on a specific species that speaks to larger issues. Well written and organized.
Environmental ReportingHonorable MentionThe Business JournalWet winter invites flooding research on Valley farmsChuck HarveyReally interesting topic to cover. The writer did thorough research for this story and I like how topics were separated with subheads.
Environmental Reporting2ndThe Davis EnterpriseFirst oil, now coal — more rail fears surfaceFelicia AlvarezThis article flowed extremely well. This can be a hard topic to keep a reader engaged and I admire the journalist explaining such dense information in a simple, direct style with accurate information. The article is supported with information that explores both benefits and disadvantages of transporting coal within the rail industry, environmental/health, and financial impacts. The journalist answered a lot of “why’s”, “how’s” and “what’s next”.
Environmental Reporting1stThe Desert SunSalton Sea’s DeclineIan JamesA truly interesting and in depth piece. Really thorough with plenty of local impact. Well done!
Environmental Reporting2ndThe Desert SunObama’s clean energy legacySammy RothWhat a frustrating story, highlighting what happens when government, the private sector and environmentalists collide! Gridlock! Well done!
Environmental ReportingHonorable MentionThe Fresno BeeCampaign underway to turn Sierra National Forest into national monumentCarmen George
Environmental ReportingHonorable MentionThe Napa Valley RegisterHerbicies use in city parksHoward YuneGood job showing how social media complaint can galvanize a community and put onus on city to explain chemicals its using in local parks.
Environmental Reporting2ndThe Press DemocratHow will state’s parks be preserved?Derek MooreNice insertion of a human element to this story by using the family and their getaway location, how they will be affected by it, sandwiched around the meaty information. Nicely written. It was a bit long, but necessary to get all the information packed into it.
Environmental ReportingHonorable MentionThe Press DemocratKelp collapse imperils ocean ecosystemMary Callahan
Environmental ReportingHonorable MentionThe RecordDiving deep on chloramines and Stockton is not FlintAlex BreitlerWell written, informative, and talks the hysteria back with facts. Well done!
Environmental ReportingHonorable MentionThe Sacramento BeeDangerous levels of lead found near city-owned gun rangeRyan LillisNot only does the Sacramento Bee’s reporting on the Mangan Rifle and Pistol Range show tremendous depth, but on multiple occasions it spurred action by the city and city council members. Following the first story, it’s clear that the tests of the homes and park near the gun range came about in part because of the work by Ryan Lillis. It’s a sign of a good investigative reporter when the journalism results in actual change.
Environmental Reporting: Drought/Fire1stBig Bear GrizzlyOut of the AshesKathy Portie, Brady EngerNice, active storytelling with interesting details about how the forest is recovering, the hazards that remain and recap of the fire and other pertinent info. Good layout with multiple photos too. This article and the layout do a good job drawing the reader in.
Environmental Reporting: Drought/FireHonorable MentionGood TimesWhat The Blaze IsKara GuzmanGood Times Santa Cruz takes California’s wildfire-prone landscape and narrows in locally. A good breadth of information, from historical context, including how the landscape was once managed vs now, how fire patterns have changed with the introduction of invasive species, and good use of creative language make it a read.
Environmental Reporting: Drought/FireHonorable MentionMariposa GazetteCal Fire seriesGreg LittleGood overview of Cal Fire operations.
Environmental Reporting: Drought/Fire1stMonterey County WeeklyCoverage of the Soberanes FireMonterey County Weekly staffThe print package provides a breadth of coverage that lays out the impact from residents’ eyes and gives snapshots of the scenario in the fire’s path. Info boxes provide a great element for readers, as does the context of past fires in the area. It’s a comprehensive package for what can be done on a weekly timeline. Online coverage is impressive, at more than 70 articles, giving updates as they develop. Creating a landing page helps readers go to one place instead of having to hunt them down.
Environmental Reporting: Drought/FireHonorable MentionMonterey HeraldWildfire could be beneficial for condorsTommy WrightAn interesting take on an unusual silver lining for wildfires.
Environmental Reporting: Drought/Fire2ndPorterville RecorderEast Porterville water, drought and recoveryStaffGood folos on a huge issue for the area. I particularly enjoyed the feature on the woman with water for the first time in seven years.
Environmental Reporting: Drought/Fire2ndSacramento News & ReviewBurned outAlastair BlandThe writer does a great job in painting a picture of various scenarios and uses great language to keep readers involved in a lengthy story. Shows a diversity of interviews, touches on the historical context of wildfires vs. modern times, the difficulty firefighters and government agencies face when dealing with fire scenarios. The article also provides an overview of the underlying seriousness and stress the years-long drought has placed on the ecosystem.
Environmental Reporting: Drought/FireHonorable MentionSanta Maria SunThirsty for solutionsDavid MinskyThe Sun’s David Minsky does well to localize the state’s groundwater act. It defines the players, the urgency in forming a local groundwater agency, and the scope of diminishing groundwater supply in a remote area.
Environmental Reporting: Drought/Fire2ndSierra StarColossal clean upBrian WilkinsonNice first-hand account introducing readers to one tree climber and also providing comprehensive story details about workers in the logging business and what they are doing in your area. I also like the layout with multiple photos.
Environmental Reporting: Drought/Fire1stThe Bakersfield CalifornianBakersfield Californian environmental/wildfire seriesStaffAnger, grief, destruction, confusion and chaos. Relief. The cost in terms of human lives, the toll of homes destroyed and livelihoods ruined. The Bakersfield Californian managed to capture all of this in visuals and reporting over the course of the Erskine Fire as it tore through Lake Isabella-area communities. From photographers lenses to the explanation on a photo of a resident’s arrest, coverage shows just how chaotic and surreal a wildfire the size of the Erskine can be.
Environmental Reporting: Drought/Fire1stThe Desert SunClimate changeIan James, Sammy Roth, Jay CalderonVery thorough. Lots of information. One of the biggest pieces of work I’ve ever seen.
Environmental Reporting: Drought/Fire2ndThe Desert SunCoping with Sputtering TapsIan James, Zoe MeyersHuman face on impacts of climate change. Not too dramatic, either.
Environmental Reporting: Drought/FireHonorable MentionThe Fresno BeeEast Porterville residents, tired of drought, say end is in sightAndrea CastilloStory takes the drought and gives it an intimately human touch. While residents have a glimmer of light at the end of the tunnel, the reporter also highlights the plight several residents have gone through over five years, including health-related issues. Article does well in providing links to past coverage and to resources.
Environmental Reporting: Drought/FireHonorable MentionThe Napa Valley RegisterLake Berryessa’s “Glory Hole”Barry EberlingReally interesting history of this place. And you couldn’t have known this would happen, but particularly enjoyed reading about it as the glory hole is going great guns!
Environmental Reporting: Drought/FireHonorable MentionThe Press DemocratEel River: A vital, troubled watershedGuy KovnerExcellent package that lays out the scenario for an important water ecosystem. Hits the notes on environmental and community impacts. Notes the varied impacts, including marijuana growth sucking up water and threatening smaller streams, in turn endangering fish populations. Gives great historical context. Info box outlines just how crucial a role the whole watershed fills for the communities benefiting from the Eel River.
Environmental Reporting: Drought/Fire2ndThe Sacramento BeeDrought CoverageDale Kasler, Ryan Sabalow, Phillip ReeseSacramento Bee coverage of the drought in 2016 covers a gamut of topic: environmental regulations, North-South tensions over water usage and supply, the plight of farmers and fish, the debate over conservation should be needed as the drought condition gradually slows amidst relaxed standards. Instead of just a region, it looks at the state. The Sac Bee’s coverage looks at the different levels, from local to federal, and uses graphs, break-out and info boxes to great effect.
Environmental Reporting: Drought/FireHonorable MentionThe TribuneSome seek SLO building moratorium until city recalculates future water supplyCynthia LambertA good and fair story about a city’s water problems. Loved the la-di-da quote.
Environmental Reporting: Drought/Fire1stThe UnionOngoing drought increases bark beetle populationTeresa Yinmeng Liu, Laura Mahaffy
Environmental Reporting: Drought/FireHonorable MentionVentura County StarThe challenge: Keep Lake Casitas underwaterCheri Carlson and Anthony PlascenciaI like the fact that this group of stories devoted more time and effort to talk to business owners around the lake and their problems. Good look at how one lake is rapidly losing water, and how that ffects the community—crave a little better writing/depth.
Environmental Reporting: Drought/FireHonorable MentionWinters ExpressStebbins Cold Canyon recovering from Wragg FireDebra DeAngelo
Feature PhotoHonorable MentionGrunion GazetteHappy FeetDamien Barranco
Feature PhotoHonorable MentionLake County Record-BeeLearning at Library ParkBerenice QuirinoThe photographer really got down on their knees to capture this image, and is very technically sound and colorful.
Feature Photo1stLedger DispatchPlayful AlyssaStaff
Feature Photo1stLodi News-SentinelSomething wildBea AhbeckA good photojournalism shot shows action and reaction. Capturing a reaction is one of the hardest things to get, since it happens so quickly. This photo is a perfect example of that.
Feature Photo1stLos Angeles Downtown NewsSeptember 12, 2016Gary Leonard, Photographer
Feature Photo1stLos Angeles TimesWilshire GrandMel MelconWe all find ourselves challenged at times with figuring out how to show a scene in a different way. This photograph shows what planning and execution can achieve. Fun feature shot of construction workers, featuring the dizzying height of the spire.
Feature PhotoHonorable MentionMountain View VoiceReach into the pastMichelle LeFantastic photo that tells a story in itself. Great color and a really fun photo to look at.
Feature PhotoHonorable MentionPetaluma Argus-CourierBubblesCrissy Pascual
Feature Photo1stSan Francisco Business TimesInfoScout collects data from shopping receiptsTodd JohnsonGreat feature photo that shows creativity and guts (not an easy photo to take). Expertly done.
Feature Photo2ndSan Francisco ExaminerWill San Francisco See the Writing on the Wall?Jessica ChristianHomelessness is an important issue that people often struggle to truly empathsize with. This photo succeeds in instantly creating empathy, with the viewer understanding a bit of what it would be like to be in this situation.
Feature PhotoHonorable MentionSan Jose Mercury NewsAre you fire ready?Patrick TehanPoignant detail shot from the destructive wildfire season.
Feature PhotoHonorable MentionSierra StarSeussing it upBrian Wilkinson
Feature PhotoHonorable MentionSunnyvale SunLast Day at JCPenneyJacqueline Ramseyer OrrellMost people would have gone with a simple shot of the store’s exterior, but this photo goes above and beyond to really tell a story. Magnificently done.
Feature Photo2ndThe AcornSpark of InspirationBobby Curtis
Feature Photo2ndThe AlmanacFighting Parkinson’s DiseaseMichelle LeHeartwarming photo that is both warm and inspiring. Expert use of lighting.
Feature Photo1stThe ArkWith Mickey ears, mermaids …Elliot KarlanSuch a genuine expression of joy on this kid’s face — it’s a touching but happy photo. The colors are beautiful too — specifically the purple lei against his black T-shirt.
Feature PhotoHonorable MentionThe Bakersfield CalifornianUmbrella man photoFelix Adamo
Feature Photo2ndThe Davis EnterpriseSunset sunflowersWayne Tilcock
Feature PhotoHonorable MentionThe Davis EnterpriseBurlesque for allFred Gladdis
Feature Photo2ndThe Desert SunDrag show prepZoe MeyersGraphically the photo communicates well as composition leads eye from subject’s back to the mirror giving the viewer a nice surprise element. Nicely framed look into subjects world. Excellent technique.
Feature PhotoHonorable MentionThe Fresno BeeStorm brings light rain to FresnoSilvia Flores
Feature Photo2ndThe Intermountain NewsMud running for fitnessCraig HarringtonGreat composition and color — with the exception of the kid’s grin (big white teeth) and the blurred figure in blue t-shirt in back, everything’s brown and muddy — and it works! Photo also captures a genuine look of joy on the kid’s face.
Feature Photo2ndThe Orange County RegisterDr. DolittleCindy YamanakaGreat detail shot showing relationship between zookeeper and tamarin.
Feature Photo1stThe Press DemocratAlana’s ArtChristopher ChungThis image is well composed with nice lighting and quickly tells the story of this person’s life.
Feature PhotoHonorable MentionThe RecordChristmas lightsClifford OtoExcellent solution to the “go take pictures of Christmas lights” photo assignment.
Feature PhotoHonorable MentionThe Sacramento BeeCelebratory TokeAndrew SengGreat image illustrating the election win for Prop 64.
Feature Photo2ndThe SignalHappy SquirrelDan WatsonThis unique photo is at the same time funny and leaves the viewer thinking, “how did the photographer get this shot?” A great spin on the usual sunny day weather shot.
Feature PhotoHonorable MentionThe TribuneMouse on firefighter’s shoulderJoe JohnstonCool shot of a unique moment in time.
Feature PhotoHonorable MentionThe Trinity JournalColorful moon celebration at Joss HouseAmy GittelsohnDecent moment from an everyday assignment.
Feature PhotoHonorable MentionThe UnionFast waterLaura MahaffyA great example of a “frozen in time” image in an environment that is extremely fast-moving.
Feature PhotoHonorable MentionThousand Oaks AcornWings of HopeJoan Pahoyo
Feature Photo1stVentura County StarBuilding a FutureJuan CarloThis photo is a great combination of framing, composition and hues. Well done and storytelling. Nice framing. Good solution to difficult photo assignment.
Front Page Tabloid1stBlack Voice NewsPassing the TorchChris Allen
Front Page TabloidHonorable MentionChico News & ReviewApril 21, May 26 and June 16, 2016Tina FlynnVery creative covers with good use of photos and illustrations. Teasers show readers variety of inside content.
Front Page Tabloid1stMetro Silicon ValleyJuly 6, Sept. 6 and Nov. 9, 2016StaffVery clean, informative and eye-catching designs. And the inclusion of teasers gives readers a good variety of news coverage.
Front Page Tabloid2ndSacramento News & ReviewSummer guideBrian BrenemanAll were very strong graphically. This front page has faces in a recognizable local setting, which has lots of reader appeal. I also like the wide variety of coverage topics teased on the cover.
Front Page Tabloid1stSan Francisco ExaminerMay 20, June 29 and Aug. 17, 2016Examiner staffThree strong, newsy covers that grab and hold the readers’ attention. Photo choices are impactful and smartly used. The “writing on the wall” cover is especially memorable.
Front Page Tabloid2ndSan Jose Mercury NewsEYE coversStaffSolid, attractive work but not sufficiently memorable or eye-catching to warrant top honors.
Front Page TabloidHonorable MentionSanta Barbara IndependentIs it High Time? Pot Prop’s Pros and ConsBen Ciccati, Caitlin FitchGood use of a photo and negative space. Including teasers gives readers a taste of the variety of inside content.
Front Page Tabloid1stSanta Ynez Valley StarDecember 2016Aimee Reinhart Avery (Designer)
Front Page Tabloid2ndThe ArkMarch 9, March 23 and April 6, 2016Staff
Front Page Tabloid2ndThe Business JournalJan. 22, Aug. 5 and Sept. 9, 2016Gabriel Dillard, Art Pineda, Leah Canseco-Decker
Front Page: Broadsheet2ndAlameda JournalAlameda Journal front pagesChris Wagnon
Front Page: Broadsheet2ndAuburn JournalMay 25, Oct. 5 and Nov. 30, 2016StaffCreative use of space with a good blend of visually appealing colors and clean lines.
Front Page: Broadsheet1stHalf Moon Bay ReviewMarch 2, July 20 and Oct. 12, 2016Half Moon Bay Review staffNice pages and clear winner in the category. Well done.
Front Page: Broadsheet1stLos Angeles TimesJune 13, Nov. 9 and Dec. 24, 2016Los Angeles Times StaffThe top three in this category quickly rose to the top. Arguments could be made, and were, that any of the three deserved the first place award. The LA Times rose to the top for its consistent excellence in its contest submission.
Front Page: BroadsheetHonorable MentionLos Banos Enterprise2-12-16; 4-22-16; 9-30-16StaffClean pages with nice flow. Dominant photos and headlines help give reader a guide, one of the strongest characteristics of all three pages. Overall nicely done and congratulations.
Front Page: Broadsheet1stMonterey County WeeklyOf, Local Women React to Trump’s Victory, and the Soberanes FireKaren Loutzenheiser
Front Page: Broadsheet1stMonterey HeraldMarch 24, July 28 and Nov. 17, 2016Monterey Herald StaffLively pages with efficient use of multiple entry points for readers. Good use of color with clean design.
Front Page: BroadsheetHonorable MentionSan Francisco ChronicleApril 14 and 21, and Oct. 9, 2016Staff
Front Page: BroadsheetHonorable MentionSan Jose Mercury NewsThree front pages: Ghost ship, Treating Tasia, Lost GunsStaff
Front Page: BroadsheetHonorable MentionSierra StarMarch 31, June 16 and Aug. 18, 2016StaffOverall nice, clean design. Clear lead photos help drive the page and not create fighting visual elements. Would like to see headlines filled out more. Particularly like the typography on homeless CP. Well done.
Front Page: Broadsheet2ndSt. Helena StarJan. 14, Jan. 28 and Nov. 10, 2016StaffStrong, clean pages overall. Was glad to see dominant elements on each page from headlines to photos.
Front Page: Broadsheet1stThe Desert SunJune 8, July 10 and Aug. 21, 2016Take UdaEvery page is a work of art. Very compelling with bold visuals. Takes some risks but delivers. Well balanced art mixed with solid headlines and multiple points of entry.
Front Page: BroadsheetHonorable MentionThe Downey PatriotJune 30, Oct. 13 and Oct. 20, 2016Staff
Front Page: BroadsheetHonorable MentionThe Napa Valley RegisterMay 19, Aug. 12 and Dec. 7, 2016Staff
Front Page: BroadsheetHonorable MentionThe Orange County RegisterJan 31, June 14 and Sept 25, 2016Staff
Front Page: BroadsheetHonorable MentionThe RecordMay 11, Aug. 5 and Nov. 9, 2016StaffClean, sharp lines. Good use of main art and banner headlines. Certainly, a solid front page.
Front Page: Broadsheet2ndThe Sacramento BeeApril 10, June 26 and Sept. 24, 2016StaffMy favorite single page of all entries in competition featured the superb “lead dust” centerpiece and its excellent use of explanatory graphics and type. Liked the fun top-box treatment for arena closing — good way to highlight event of high local interest. I liked the “Pie Surprise” slideshow treatment but with that busy-ness, thought the rest of the page should have fewer refers to give the centerpiece some breathing room.
Front Page: Broadsheet2ndThe TribuneJune 22, July 24 and Aug. 21, 2016StaffGood use of main art, type. One of the things I like about these pages is the willingness to adapt the page to the needs of the day. One page, the right hand column was a sidebar, then it was briefs, then it was combined with the rest of the layout rather than separated. The reefers at the top also changed, but, yet, there’s a consistent feel to the pages. I’m a little bothered that there is usually only one story on the front page, but the large boxes at the bottom help address that.
Front Page: BroadsheetHonorable MentionThe UnionJune 1, July 6 and 18, 2016Laci Thompson, Melissa Erny
Front Page: BroadsheetHonorable MentionVentura County StarSept. 8, Nov. 9 and Dec 7, 2016Marc JenkinsBold effort. Kudos for taking some risks. Star Trek layout makes good use of Star Trek phrases. There is a lot going on on these pages.
General ExcellenceHonorable MentionAuburn JournalMarch 6 and 8, 2016StaffA good, community-spirited paper. Energy was put into the Page One display in both of these examples. Very good calendar, in content and presentation.
General Excellence1stHalf Moon Bay ReviewMarch 2 and 9, 2016Half Moon Bay Review staffExcellent paper through and through, from quantity, variety and quality of stories to page design to photography, editorial, sports and features pages, a blessing for the Half Moon Bay community.
General ExcellenceHonorable MentionLedger DispatchIt’s Now Mighty Branches Touch Us AllStaffAn interesting newspaper with a wide variety of stories and sections. The special report on the Butte Fire is very well done with great stories and writing and exceptional photos. Portrayed the impact of the disaster on residents.
General ExcellenceHonorable MentionLompoc RecordSept. 25 and 28, 2016StaffAnother fine community newspaper entry, but with more syndicated rather than local content than higher finishers.
General Excellence2ndLos Angeles Downtown NewsLos Angeles Downtown News March 7 and March 14StaffGraphic presentation was unmatched in this category. Visually, a pleasure to read. This publication strikes a nice balance with the content, delivering style and substance. You know what’s a story and you know what’s entertainment. Not over-designed like many weeklies.
General Excellence2ndLos Angeles TimesSept. 10 and Sept. 11Los Angeles Times StaffThe Times remains one of our nation’s very strong newspapers.
General Excellence1stMerced Sun-StarSept. 2 and 3, 2016StaffA paper built on news, with a focus on fact-finding and accountability on its news and opinion pages, presented in a clean, confident design. Community papers packaged into the weekend paper make for a big, satisfying read. Congratulations to the Sun-Star on a well edited, well written report.
General ExcellenceHonorable MentionMountain View VoiceSept. 16 and 23, 2016StaffThe Mountain View Voice had graphically stunning advertising and good writing quality. Excellent graphics, layout and presentation. Lots of local news, information and voices. Good use of photos.
General ExcellenceHonorable MentionPalo Alto WeeklyMarch 11 and 18, 2016StaffWow, where so many weeklies try to win you over with design, this weekly wins you over with the news. Could it be prettier? Yes. But that’s okay, it delivers lots of substance.
General Excellence1stPetaluma Argus-CourierSept. 1 and 8, 2016StaffWell-written and well-packaged publication. It seems well-connected to its community. Its editors make their pages easy for the reader by packaging it in several interesting sections.
General Excellence1stSacramento News & ReviewSept. 8 and 15, 2016StaffThis is by far the most complete entry in this category. The stories were compelling and well written and covered a breadth of subjects that is unparalleled here. Excellent from cover to cover. Other weeklies in this category had eye-catching designs and a good mix of local content, but no others explored important and controversial topics with the depth that SNR did.
General Excellence1stSan Francisco Business TimesSept. 23 and 30, 2016StaffWe were impressed with how well the San Francisco Business Times vigorously carried out its mission to cover Bay Area business with its top-notch general news coverage, breadth of coverage, story selection and mix, editorial excellence, quality of writing, news judgment, graphic readability, presentation and appearance, photo reproduction and strong editorial stances. Its local and community coverage and advertising graphics were good, too. This previous GE winner just gets better and stronger in all categories, most notably a sharper critical eye and voice on a myriad of biz and economic topics and sectors.
General Excellence1stSan Francisco ChronicleMarch 6 and 7, 2016StaffThe Chronicle has an excellent balance of local and Northern California news that features strong storytelling and watchdog journalism. Sports remains a traditional strength as does its local arts coverage. But the key factor to this judging was the magnificent special section on med who had survived HIV and AIDS. The photography was riveting. The stories moving. Remarkable work.
General ExcellenceHonorable MentionSan Francisco ExaminerExaminer staff
General Excellence2ndSanta Maria SunSept. 8 and 15, 2016The SunExcellent mix of coverage of local issues, arts and culture. Overall clean and inviting layout, but too tight or squeezed in some places. Sense of reader involvement in may pages. Ambitious coverage area which must be helped by sister publication. Envious advertising mix and percentages.
General Excellence2ndSanta Maria TimesMarch 3 and 4, 2016StaffThe Times makes good use of its resources to cover a range of news and provide serious commentary.This is a cleanly presented community paper with a lively approach to people and feature stories.
General ExcellenceHonorable MentionSimi Valley AcornMarch 11 and 18, 2016StaffGood newsy weekly in a very competitive division.
General Excellence2ndSt. Helena StarSept. 22 and 29, 2016StaffA fine community newspaper with lots of micro-local content celebrating the area and its people and informing readers about key local issues.
General Excellence1stThe Desert SunSept. 24 and 25, 2016staffStrong, well-written local coverage along with a good selection of regional and national news supplemented by USA Today. Good use of photos and graphics, and a clean, attractive layout. Lots of attention to detail.
General Excellence1stThe Fresno BeeSept. 24 and 25, 2016StaffAmbitious government accountability/watchdog reporting honing in on a distinct local angle to a national story. A refreshing amount of local news and community stories and visuals throughout that give a strong sense of place.
General ExcellenceHonorable MentionThe Modesto BeeSept. 4 and 5, 2016Staff
General ExcellenceHonorable MentionThe Napa Valley RegisterGeneral excellenceStaffThe Register is an enjoyable paper that does a thorough job with community and public safety news. It has a admirable “local” feel.
General ExcellenceHonorable MentionThe Orange County RegisterSept. 24 and 25, 2016Staff
General Excellence2ndThe PiedmonterNov. 11 and 18, 2016Jon KawamotoA good blend of news and feature and stories, sharp writing, nice photos and clean layout. his is an interesting publication with a little something for everybody.There is a good balance of news, features, arts and entertainment, sports and people stories. It is presented in a bright, clean format.
General Excellence2ndThe Press DemocratMarch 19 and 20, 2016Staff
General Excellence2ndThe RecordSept. 10 and 11, 2016Staff
General ExcellenceHonorable MentionThe RecorderSept. 12 and 19StaffThis community newspaper is about a community of interest, the legal community. Articles are in depth and authoritative, but there is less breadth of coverage than in higher-placed entries. Well-designed front page. Not too crowded and good use of main art. Inside pages are interesting with some art to break it up.
General ExcellenceHonorable MentionThe Sacramento BeeSept. 24 and 25, 2016Staff
General ExcellenceHonorable MentionThe Sonoma Index-TribuneSept. 20 and 23, 2016StaffWell-written and designed. Lots of different stories to read that show slices of life in the community.
General ExcellenceHonorable MentionThe TribuneSept. 24 and 25, 2016StaffLovely layout and design.
General ExcellenceHonorable MentionTracy PressMarch 11 and 18, 2016Will Fleet, Michael Langley, Tracy Press staffThe Tracy Press excelled at local and community coverage, and had good breadth of coverage, writing quality and news photo reproduction. Strong local news selection. Good writing and sense of lively reader interest. Very dominant sports coverage and well reported and photographed. The paper’s voice comes across as a respected community leader, witnessed in the editorials and business news coverage. Worthy of General Excellence top tier ranking.
General ExcellenceHonorable MentionVentura County StarSept. 17 and 18, 2016Staff
Illustration1stBlack Voice NewsRegulations and ReformAndre LoftisThis visually appealing and thought-provoking illustration catches the eye immediately while its puzzle-like quality holds the reader’s attention. A playful and very effective entry-point for a story tackling complex issues.
IllustrationHonorable MentionLos Angeles TimesSummer Television PreviewCameron CottrillImage speaks for itself. It says summer, it says channel surfing. Clear message. Great use of color. Nostalgic but modern.
Illustration2ndMetro Silicon ValleyWe Will SurviveFred Harper
IllustrationHonorable MentionSacramento News & ReviewThe grinch who stole 2016Serene Lusano, Brian Breneman
Illustration2ndSan Francisco Business TimesStartup CEOs Behaving BadlyMitch GreenCleverly executed and well-integrated into the story; works nicely in setting a tone and elegantly guiding the reader into the article.
IllustrationHonorable MentionSan Francisco Business TimesJanus Jerry BrownMitch GreenThis smartly conceived and sharply rendered illustration pairs perfectly with the story/column.
IllustrationHonorable MentionSan Francisco Business TimesTrump: Bay Area FriendMitch GreenThis provocative, humorous and well-executed illustration pairs perfectly with the article.
Illustration1stSan Francisco ChronicleThe future of retailSteven Boyle, Christopher T. Fong, Danielle Mollette-ParksEngaging illustration welcomes reader to special report. Offers reader may entry points. Clear communication of overall topic and subtopics. Easy to comprehend. Simplistic but interactive. Good choice of colors.
Illustration2ndSan Jose Mercury NewsKeeping your safeJeff DurhamCompelling visual. Communicates message clearly and effectively. Commands readers’ attentions.
Illustration1stSanta Barbara IndependentVanilla IceBen Ciccati
IllustrationHonorable MentionSanta Barbara IndependentSummer Camp FoxBen Ciccati
IllustrationHonorable MentionThe Fresno BeeWho tells the story?SW ParraBeautiful, haunting graphic, draws in readers
Informational GraphicHonorable MentionLedger DispatchAmador Water Treatment Plant informational graphicStaff
Informational Graphic1stLos Angeles TimesEvery Shot Kobe Bryant Ever TookLos Angeles Times StaffA seemingly simple yet highly engaging graphic. The little details make you want to read it. This might even be interesting to a non-basketball fan.
Informational Graphic2ndNorth Coast JournalThe ChaseMiles EgglestonMap described a dramatic police chase in a detailed fashion. Clean, contemporary style.
Informational GraphicHonorable MentionNorth Coast JournalHumboldt MassacresMiles EgglestonBeautiful shaded relief makes this map stand out.
Informational Graphic1stPasadena Star-NewsMars Opportunity roverDaniel Aitken, Jason Henry, Daniel Tedford
Informational Graphic1stSan Francisco Business TimesBody of EvidenceMitch Green, Ron LeutyBold and contemporary typography and color illustrate an interesting dataset about clinical trials. Many forms of visualizing data are effectively used, including a diagram of the human body, bar charts, donut charts and an ordered list. The writing is clear, on point and the right length. While it may have run with a story, the graphic works well as a standalone piece.
Informational Graphic2ndThe Desert SunDrug arrests drop after Prop 47Robert Hopwood
Informational GraphicHonorable MentionThe Desert SunSuper Bowl previewBilly Anneken
Informational GraphicHonorable MentionThe Fresno BeeWonder WomanSW Parra
Informational Graphic2ndThe Orange County RegisterAnatomy of a jail breakJeff Goertzen, Keith Sharon, Kurt SnibbeThe level of detail makes you think the journalist were at the jail break. This is the kind of “make it come alive” storytelling that newspapers do best.
Informational GraphicHonorable MentionThe Sacramento BeeCenter of AttentionNathaniel Levine
Informational GraphicHonorable MentionThe UnionBusiness of Building Laci Thompson, Alan Riquelmy
Inside Page Layout & Design BroadsheetHonorable MentionAuburn JournalLifestyle: May 29; Sports: July 1 and Oct. 25, 2016Megan Houchin, Ike Dodson
Inside Page Layout & Design BroadsheetHonorable MentionChico Enterprise-RecordSports: March 20, Aug. 25 and Dec. 17, 2016Staff
Inside Page Layout & Design Broadsheet2ndLos Angeles Daily NewsSpotlight: Feb. 5, July 22 and Nov. 18, 2016Kay ScanlonStrong typography merged nicely with images, particularly on “Fantastic Beasts”, resulting in a strong poster approach.
Inside Page Layout & Design Broadsheet1stDel Norte TriplicateJuly 14, Aug. 19 and Oct. 15, 2016Bryant AndersonStrong design on all three pages. Mushrooms and blackberries pages in particular. Overall, clean, eye-pleasing design. Well done.
Inside Page Layout & Design BroadsheetHonorable MentionDesert ReviewSummer Arts: July 20, 2016StaffFun pages and fun to look at. Overall nice design.
Inside Page Layout & Design Broadsheet2ndFeather River BulletinB Section: Jan. 13, Jan. 20 and May 11, 2016James MachadoHard to go wrong with animals and this time their use lifted the entry to second place. Congratulations. Fun use of cutouts and clean design overall.
Inside Page Layout & Design BroadsheetHonorable MentionLedger DispatchInside the minds of a staff of geniuses, or is it geni?Staff
Inside Page Layout & Design Broadsheet1stLos Angeles TimesApril 17 (Kobe Bryant: Hero and Villain), May 14 (The Desperate Trek) and Nov. 20, 2016 (The battle to save Mosul’s wounded)Los Angeles Times StaffGreat use of terrific photos.
Inside Page Layout & Design BroadsheetHonorable MentionSan Francisco ChronicleBlack Lives, Black Voices: July 31, 2016Danielle Mollette-Parks
Inside Page Layout & Design Broadsheet2ndThe Desert SunDesert Trip to PoliticsTake UdaThe Desert Trip poster is beautiful! A nice way to remember the concert. The “super fans” page was fun, easy to navigate, thanks to the way it was laid out.
Inside Page Layout & Design BroadsheetHonorable MentionThe Fresno BeeSpring ThingsJohn Alvin
Inside Page Layout & Design Broadsheet1stThe TribuneJuly 17, 2016StaffClean, easy to read, many entry points, shapes and sizes of artwork are appealing. White space is judicious and serves the layout. Nice photo choices — they convey the sense of SLO as a lively place.
Inside Page Layout & Design TabloidHonorable MentionBlack Voice NewsMerchants of Riverside/Regulation and Reform/Riverside Wire TappingChris Allen
Inside Page Layout & Design Tabloid1stChico News & ReviewJune 30, Nov. 17 and Dec. 15, 2016Tina Flynn, Sandy PetersStrong conceptual thinking. Consistent editorial well overall, with strong page design.
Inside Page Layout & Design TabloidHonorable MentionLos Angeles Downtown NewsStaff
Inside Page Layout & Design TabloidHonorable MentionPalo Alto WeeklyJan. 1, Feb. 26 and April 29, 2016staff
Inside Page Layout & Design Tabloid2ndPleasanton WeeklyFeb. 12, Aug. 26, Oct. 26, 2016Staff
Inside Page Layout & Design TabloidHonorable MentionSan Francisco Business TimesExecutive of the YearsMitch Green
Inside Page Layout & Design Tabloid1stSan Jose Mercury NewsEYE tabloid inside pagesStaff
Inside Page Layout & Design Tabloid2ndSanta Barbara IndependentCommunity Arts Workshop, Staycation, and Nell CampbellBen Ciccati, Caitlin FitchAll three are beautifully dynamic pages that clearly execute their concepts with art, typography and visual tone to accompany the images. Article type on “Gods & Monsters” is a little tough to read with the background image, but otherwise great work.
Inside Page Layout & Design Tabloid1stThe AlmanacJan. 6, March 9 and May 11, 2016staff
Inside Page Layout & Design Tabloid2ndThe Fresno BeeCaptain AmericaJohn Alvin
Inside Page Layout & Design TabloidHonorable MentionThe Fresno BeeUnder the SeaJohn Alvin
Inside Page Layout & Design TabloidHonorable MentionThe Fresno BeeStar TrekJohn Alvin
Investigative ReportingHonorable MentionHalf Moon Bay ReviewAfter tax hike, delayed reports reveal full county coffersKaitlyn Bartley
Investigative Reporting1stLos Angeles TimesInvestigating OxyContinLos Angeles Times StaffExcellent! Nine-part series goes deep into drug manufacturer’s push to get more people to take Oxycontin despite evidence that it wasn’t effective, as well as the far-reaching consequences the strategy had on patients. Story shows how the drug got into criminal drug dealers’ hands, how users got addicted and died and the company’s subsequent expansion of the drug into foreign markets.
Investigative Reporting2ndLos Angeles TimesCalifornia’s National GuardDavid S. CloudDavid Cloud’s dozens of interviews made for powerful storytelling of the disgraceful treatment of soldiers and veterans of the California National Guard. Very thorough 10-part series. Reporting may have been a factor in Pentagon decision to halt efforts to recover bonuses.
Investigative Reporting1stMetro Silicon ValleySkipping Out on BailJennifer WadsworthPowerful indictment of a corrupt and dysfunctional bail bonds system. Deep, careful reporting and clear writing make this one of the top entries in a hyper-competitive category.
Investigative ReportingHonorable MentionMonterey County WeeklyAn investigation on how a would-be developer allegedly depleted a $6 million family trust.David SchmalzExhaustive investigation with huge stakes for the community. The Monterey County Weekly and reporter David Schmalz went above and beyond in gathering and distilling a mountain of documents. Moreover, Schmalz wrote this story in an artful, conversational style that grabbed the reader by the lapel and simply would not let go. Bravo.
Investigative Reporting2ndMountain View VoiceDisarray at the DojoMark NoackDigging into wrongdoing at a local nonprofit resulted in an intriguing tale of theft, organizational infighting and e-mail hacking.
Investigative Reporting1stNorth Coast JournalThe Case of the Missing $5 MillionLinda StansberryThis is a well-written piece that draws the reader from one family’s story into a deeply reported explanation of deficiencies in North Coast skilled nursing care.
Investigative Reporting2ndPalo Alto WeeklyFailed justice?Elena KadvanyThe intimate portraits of victims in this piece illustrate the subtle differences in perception that separated them from the administration that was supposed to protect them. Understanding these details should go a long way toward producing the reforms they are hoping to see. Eye-opening package revealing how Stanford University failed to adequately investigate critical allegations of sexual misconduct — and failed to adequately protect victims, as well. Reporting was ambitious, writing quite strong, overall package exceptional.
Investigative Reporting2ndPetaluma Argus-CourierPetaluma Marina Debt GrowsEric GneckowA well-reported and written look at a city-owned project that’s financially underwater and facing debt to the state. A solid look at how the marina, promised to be a self-sufficient crown jewel for the city, saw its financial picture get worse by the year — an important read for Petaluma residents.
Investigative Reporting2ndRecord SearchlightOffice asked for deputies help; Lawyer: Hmong afraid to voteAlayna ShulmanImpressive digging by the newspaper for what was at the bottom of the actions involving the Hmong, particularly showing the sheriff’s role as a partner rather than instigator. Excellent topic, excellent research. Good use of public info requests.
Investigative ReportingHonorable MentionRecord SearchlightA coincidence of crashes?Alayna ShulmanKudos to the reporter for noticing the crashes were more than a coincidence and for proving something needed to be fixed.
Investigative ReportingHonorable MentionSacramento News & ReviewCops’ license-plate readers keep their eye on you, SacramentoRaheem F. HosseiniExcellent, well-balanced reporting on a topic of high importance — and frightening implications. Should be required reading of every citizen in the Sacramento area.
Investigative ReportingHonorable MentionSan Jose Mercury News944 Lost GunsThomas PeeleVery good one-part story. Sheds light on an important but little-known problem. Good sidebar on FOI requests, graphs and illustrations.
Investigative ReportingHonorable MentionSanta Maria SunTruth or livesDavid MinskyGreat find due to thorough document research.
Investigative Reporting1stThe Desert SunBodies at the BorderBrett Kelman, Gustavo Solis, Omar OrnelasThis richly reported series reminds us that though most border crossings have shifted to Arizona and Texas, California has its share of incalculable tragedy. Its use of interactive elements to complement the narrative — accountability reporting chock-full of long-forgotten background — gives readers a clear picture of what led up to where we are now. Its crisp writing gives voice to the thousands of unidentified migrants who have died in the face of California’s brutal landscape.
Investigative Reporting2ndThe Desert SunFreed but ForgottenStaffLawmakers and others have raised concerns about the repercussions of Proposition 47, but this beautifully written and reported series details the human cost. In an admirable partnership between newsrooms that should be a model to others, these reporters produced a series fueled by wrangling a large volume of documents and navigating an at-times opaque criminal justice system that finds itself struggling to be buoyed by the state’s strapped social services sector.
Investigative Reporting1stThe Fresno BeeFresno Slum HousingAndrea Castillo, Barbara Anderson and BoNhia LeeVery extensively researched and well written story about a huge problem affecting the lives of thousands of people, mostly poor and immigrants. Very effective use of graphics, photos and videos.
Investigative Reporting2ndThe Fresno BeeTainted Water: Why did it take a dozen years for Fresno’s leaders.....?Tim Sheehan and Marc BenjaminExcellent job exposing the negligence by city officials in failing the deal with the discolored water problem.
Investigative ReportingHonorable MentionThe Fresno BeeFresno Unified lease-leaseback contracts coverageMackenzie MaysThorough job reporting on cozy relationship between builder and school officials to get insider’s advantage and get multi-million-dollar construction contracts.
Investigative ReportingHonorable MentionThe Press DemocratStuck in SqualorAngela HartVery good four-part series about substandard conditions in low-income housing in Santa Rosa and the health problems it caused residents. Fresno Bee entry on slum housing was more in-depth and far-reaching.
Investigative ReportingHonorable MentionThe RecordPool violations commonAlex BreitlerOK story. Lots of minor violations at public pools. Sort of falls into the no surprise category for me.
Investigative Reporting1stThe RecorderLawyers Without BordersCheryl MillerThis piece holds the the State Bar to account on eyebrow-raising travel that, on its face, appears to have little grounding in furthering the legal body’s mission. It is a well-reported story that trains a light on the difficulty reporters face in obtaining records from the Bar and takes a hard look at the stewardship of its finances — not an easy task.
Investigative ReportingHonorable MentionThe Sacramento BeeUC Davis Chancellor Linda Katehi investigationDiana Lambert, Sam StantonVery thorough and persistent coverage of the chancellor’s troubling decisions, including pepper-spraying students, accepting paid positions from dubious outside institutions and, worst of all, using public funds to hire firms to scrub negative comments about her from the Internet. Kudos for getting comments from Lt. Gov. Gavin Newsom and State Sen. Kevin McCarty.
Investigative ReportingHonorable MentionThe Sacramento Valley MirrorDusti Byers shooting, abuse, interrogation, and sentencingTim Crews
Investigative ReportingHonorable MentionThe TribuneState lawmakers got about $873,000 in freebies last year, but the gifts can be difficult to trackMatt FountainLots of information and a good project.
Investigative ReportingHonorable MentionThe UnionLegal battle brewing over narcotics casesLiz KellarGood work. Very well written and concise in a news sense.
Investigative Reporting1stVisalia Times-Delta & Tulare Advance-RegisterTulare Regional Medical Center coverageJames Houck and Juan VillaExploring all aspects of the hospital’s building proposal, finances and governance gives readers a well-rounded picture of what happened at the medical center to cause major upheaval. Complete coverage that hits all the angles. Great exploration of hospital’s role in a community and how mismanagement and other issues can affect that whole community.
Investigative ReportingHonorable MentionWillow Glen ResidentBuried under the sunJulia BaumGood story about the situation in the canyon area following the fire, and the pros and cons of natural vs. human involvement in the recovery.
Lifestyle Coverage2ndBrentwood PressByron Inn Café — a delicious diamond in the roughHeather Brewer
Lifestyle CoverageHonorable MentionDel Mar TimesLifestylesStaff
Lifestyle CoverageHonorable MentionLake County Record-BeeEat+DrinkStaff
Lifestyle Coverage2ndLedger DispatchAmador LifestylesStaff
Lifestyle Coverage2ndLos Angeles TimesL.A. Times SaturdayLos Angeles Times Staff
Lifestyle CoverageHonorable MentionMarin Independent JournalLifestyle sections, April 19-20Vicki Larson
Lifestyle CoverageHonorable MentionNorth Coast JournalLifestylesStaff
Lifestyle Coverage1stPleasanton WeeklyJune 24, July 1, 2016Staff
Lifestyle Coverage1stSan Francisco ChronicleTravel: July 24 and 31, 2016Staff
Lifestyle Coverage1stSanta Barbara News-PressRooted in history and Slam dunk?Charlotte Boechler, Editor
Lifestyle Coverage1stSanta Ynez Valley NewsApril 14 and 19, 2016Mary Ann Norbom
Lifestyle CoverageHonorable MentionThe Bakersfield CalifornianEye Street: May 8 and 15, 2016Staff
Lifestyle Coverage2ndThe Desert SunDESERT magazineKristin Scharkey and Kate Franco
Lifestyle Coverage2ndThe Napa Valley RegisterJune 13 and 14, 2016Sasha Paulsen
Lifestyle CoverageHonorable MentionThe Press DemocratSonoma LifeStaff
Lifestyle CoverageHonorable MentionThe Salinas CalifornianA beautiful mornin’, a recipe for Mornin’ Max MuffinsJoe Truskot
Lifestyle CoverageHonorable MentionThe Sonoma Index-TribuneJune 10 and 17, 2016Staff
Lifestyle CoverageHonorable MentionThe TribuneLivingstaff
Lifestyle Coverage1stVisalia Times-Delta & Tulare Advance-RegisterAug. 5 and 6, 2016James Ward, Parker Bowman and Donna Orozco
News Photo1stAuburn JournalSubmerged SUVMichael MottA great breaking news action shot.
News PhotoHonorable MentionBrentwood PressSuspected Marijuana Grow House Burns in Discovery BayTony Kukulich
News PhotoHonorable MentionBrentwood PressVegetation fire burns four acres in OakleyTony Kukulich
News PhotoHonorable MentionFeather River BulletinWoman consoledDebra MooreNice job capturing the emotions of the scene.
News Photo1stLedger DispatchDropping a dump on the fireStaffRight place, right time. Image has a nice balance to it. This is what photogs are looking for when covering a fire like this. Action includes a human element and good timing, correct exposure make it clean, sharp and in my opinion, a winner!
News Photo1stLompoc RecordMurder aftermathFrank CowanA very emotional scene capture, tells the story very well without intruding. This type of grief is always hard to shoot photographer did a very good job.
News Photo1stLos Angeles TimesThe Battle for Mosul, IraqCarolyn ColeEvocative. Impactful. Haunting. Outstanding composition. An image not easily forgotten. Heartbreaking, intense and gripping moment that captures the human toll and violence.
News Photo2ndLos Angeles TimesSherpa FireMarcus YamGreat perspective on this big fire and the tiny fire hose. This image makes you sweat from the fire and for the firefighter. A solid fire photo in a season of major wildfires.
News PhotoHonorable MentionLos Angeles TimesViolence in San BernardinoGina Ferazzi
News Photo2ndMarin Independent JournalForward attackRobert TongReally captured the moment and the face. Usually, all people see are the backs of firefighters, but this one gives us more. Fires and election were big stories in 2016 in California.
News PhotoHonorable MentionMetro Silicon ValleyComing OutGreg RamarA great capture of the Trump supporter’s defiant face that contrasts with her hecklers. The photo definitely captures the tension of that protest.
News Photo2ndMonterey County WeeklyBernie SandersNic CouryThe Sanders shot does a fine job of showing the rally’s borderline religious atmosphere.
News Photo2ndRegister-PajaronianR-P News Photo 4Tarmo HannulaAlthough not the biggest news event featured among these entries, I really like this shot. Nice lines, good exposure, interesting content and the addition of the little bird on the fence is a nice touch. Nice job by the photog seeing the photo within the scene. Well done.
News PhotoHonorable MentionRegister-PajaronianR-P News Photo 2Tarmo HannulaThere were a few political events entered in this category. This was my favorite among them all. It gives a real feeling of the moment and I like the people in the backround. Exposure is on and focus is sharp.
News PhotoHonorable MentionSanta Cruz SentinelFire on the MountainShmuel Thaler
News Photo1stSanta Maria SunSMPD-involved shootingDavid MinskyThe photo of Javier Gaona surrounded by police officers shortly before he was shot is chilling. Kudos to the quick-moving photographer.
News Photo1stSimi Valley AcornFully involvedMichael CoonsA great composition that balances the view of the firefighters at one side and the blaze on the other. Definitely portrays the situation’s tension.
News Photo2ndTaft Midway DrillerNew North fireDoug KeelerGreat action, nice job getting in close to the scene.
News Photo2ndThe AlmanacFormer homeless Veteran finds homeMichelle LeA photo of a person giving a speech is often a forgettable image. This photo shows that it doesn’t have to be.
News Photo1stThe Bakersfield CalifornianFire arrest photoFelix AdamoGood peak moment during a live arrest. The photograph includes a sense of urgency and drama. Right place, right time and props for being prepared. The strength of this elderly man’s anguish of losing his home is displayed by his effort to resist these three officer’s attempt to arrest him in the ashes of his own property. My eye is drawn to his left hand, the wedding ring it bears, and the white ash that covers it, representing all that remains of this family man’s home.
News Photo1stThe Desert SunElection night dismayJay CalderonCaptured the emotion of the moment. Nice composition — could see this as a painting.
News PhotoHonorable MentionThe Fresno BeeFive-alarm fire destroys historic Rehorn Home in downtown FresnoCraig KohlrussIn a sense, firefighters are the health-care workers of property. Sometimes they practice a preventative role as they inspect structures for working smoke alarms, other times they act to quickly extinguish a kitchen fire. In this scene, they are hospice personnel, helplessly bearing witness to the death of this historic home.
News PhotoHonorable MentionThe Modesto BeeAccident photoDeke FarrowIn the age of higher automotive safety standards, the face of this young girl tells the story. Certainly the car is totaled, but airbags have been deployed and there seems to be not a scratch on this toddler. She appears wary but exhausted by the earlier drama of the incident. Despite being a stranger, she is comfortable being held by this emergency worker.
News PhotoHonorable MentionThe Mountain EnterpriseArsonist caught in the actJeff ZimmermanGreat example of being in the right place at the right time. Nice job showing the crime in progress.
News Photo2ndThe Press DemocratStories That Stay With UsBeth SchlankerReally nice emotion during a “quiet moment.” Gives the viewer a sense of the woman’s angst. It’s her eyes that tell this story.
News PhotoHonorable MentionThe RecordVigil for MelanieClifford OtoWell done vigil shot because of the way it was perfectly cropped more than anything else. Intimate moment comes through and is allowed enough space to breath.
News PhotoHonorable MentionThe ReporterCold FireJoel RosenbaumA powerful image.
News PhotoHonorable MentionThe Salinas CalifornianMurder victim vigilChelcey AdamiOverall, a powerful portrayal of grief. I like how the mother’s unique appearance made me want to know more about her story.
News PhotoHonorable MentionThe San Diego Union-TribuneOlango rallyHayne Palmour IV
News Photo2ndThe Signal126 Fatal CrashDan WatsonAn image that is hard to forget.
News PhotoHonorable MentionThe Sonoma Index-TribuneHeat of the NightRobbi PengellyNice photo. Sharp, balanced good light but missing the name of the firefighter in the caption. Still a great shot.
News PhotoHonorable MentionTimes-Herald, VallejoA family’s lossChris RileyA moving photo showing a family’s heartbreak.
Non-Profile Feature Story1stAuburn JournalThe BridgeMichael MottA tough story to tell, despite the essential connection between the two main characters. The writer handles it well.
Non-Profile Feature Story2ndEast Bay TimesTragic Love StoryMatthias GafniA great one. Well researched. Well written. Long, but held the reader’s interest throughout. And another great ending.
Non-Profile Feature Story2ndGrunion GazetteLong Beach Families Get On The Bus, Visit Mom Behind BarsEmily ThorntonMoving story.
Non-Profile Feature StoryHonorable MentionLos Angeles Downtown NewsRemembering the FallenDan Johnson, Contributing Writer
Non-Profile Feature Story2ndLos Angeles TimesL.A. School is a Haven for Teens After Long TreksCindy Carcamo
Non-Profile Feature StoryHonorable MentionLos Angeles TimesA Medical Mystery: ’We Don’t Have Polio Here’Soumya KarlamanglaCompelling medical mystery story grabs the reader’s attention from the beginning. Nicely structured and paced.
Non-Profile Feature StoryHonorable MentionMarin Independent JournalReason for HopeRichard Halstead
Non-Profile Feature Story2ndMerced Sun-StarMerced family fights for justice 10 years after unsolved slayingsRob ParsonsA well-told, well-reported story that deals with the legacy of a tragedy without resorting to melodrama. The writer has a good eye for telling details, and gives the reader a full sense of the family’s experience.
Non-Profile Feature StoryHonorable MentionMetro Silicon ValleyBYOB: Build Your Own BabyNick VeroninReally engaging baby making.
Non-Profile Feature Story1stNorth Coast JournalSanity on TrialThadeus Greenson
Non-Profile Feature Story2ndPetaluma Argus-CourierCapturing a defining momentHannah BeausangGreat portrait of an interesting man, an interesting time, an interesting cause and the intersection of all.
Non-Profile Feature StoryHonorable MentionPleasanton WeeklySacrificing For Success, Unseen StrugglesMeredith Bauer
Non-Profile Feature StoryHonorable MentionSan Francisco ChronicleChasing dreams and dollars: India and the H-1B visaPadmaparna Ghosh, Joaquin Palomino, Carolyn LochheadDeeply reported story that goes to India to deliver a fresh perspective on the H-1B program. Strong video and photography.
Non-Profile Feature Story1stSan Francisco ExaminerA holy mission: Weekly prayers held for SF homicide victimsJonah Owen LambGreat idea for a story. Well written. Love that the reporter spent the day with them. Really good ending. of the bunch.
Non-Profile Feature Story1stSan Jose Mercury NewsTrue cost of the Epi-PenTracy SeipelClever local angle on a national story gives this piece an excellent hook that smoothly transitions into deeper exploration of the topic. Well-executed explanatory graphics elevate the package.
Non-Profile Feature Story1stSan Marino OutlookSMHS Bonds Endure Across 60 YearsEric NolandEngaging and informative; much of the history is told through the eyes and anecdotes of the Class of 1956, which makes for a compelling story. Great mix of personal connections and ties to the community and school.
Non-Profile Feature Story1stSanta Barbara IndependentTransgender Life In Santa BarbaraRichie DeMaria
Non-Profile Feature Story2ndSanta Barbara News-PressTiny lives, big tearsScott Steepleton, city editorWhat an interesting story about something no one ever thinks about. The characters in the story — from the abandoned babies to the volunteers — all have good tales. My only suggestion is to think about a different way to lead into stories such as this. I found the stories of the abandoned babies really compelling and would have liked to see that as the opening segment.
Non-Profile Feature StoryHonorable MentionSanta Cruz SentinelDealing with dementia: Tim Fitzmaurice shares his storyJondi Gumz
Non-Profile Feature Story2ndSanta Maria SunReclaiming a communityJoe Payne
Non-Profile Feature StoryHonorable MentionSaratoga NewsThe water sommeliersKhalida Sarwari
Non-Profile Feature Story1stThe ArkTorn-out memorial bench …Deirdre McCrohan & Elliot KarlanThis is a compelling community story. While the emotion of a distant reader is decidedly on one side, the writer brings in the kind of detail that makes one understand the homeowner. More importantly, a reader with no connection to the region can’t stop reading.
Non-Profile Feature StoryHonorable MentionThe Bakersfield CalifornianIt’s a crystal clear legacyRobert PriceGreat story. Well written.
Non-Profile Feature Story1stThe Desert SunThe newly deportedGustavo Solis and Richard LuiIt’s clear from the details in the story that Gustavo Solis and Richard Lui are good observers. Anchored on the experience of Julio Alonso, the team was able to break down the larger issue of immigration into a human story. I hope the paper keeps supporting stories like this one.
Non-Profile Feature StoryHonorable MentionThe Fresno BeeNew Fresno project removes tattoos that branded women as propertyCarmen GeorgeGood, in depth story on a very difficult subject. Impressive to get victim to open up and talk about ordeal. Well written.
Non-Profile Feature StoryHonorable MentionThe Mountain EnterpriseFamily Cabin SeizedPatric Hedlund
Non-Profile Feature StoryHonorable MentionThe Napa Valley RegisterStricken by ALS, a Napa minister loses voice but not hopeHoward YuneA nicely told story about faith and community being tested by fate. The writer handles the material gracefully throughout, and does a good job of showing rather than telling the tale.
Non-Profile Feature StoryHonorable MentionThe PiedmonterWWII veteran to be honoredMartin SnappA history lesson across the generations. The mayor’s sense of honor and duty to her beloved uncle shines through.
Non-Profile Feature Story2ndThe RecorderBacklashBen HancockGreat work. While a nation of anger was directed at the subject, the writer tells of the nuances of law, the reasons behind the decision, how easily a judge that had earned some respect can fall — and the tightrope between the court and the court of public opinion.
Non-Profile Feature StoryHonorable MentionThe RecorderEarly DeliveryRoss Todd
Non-Profile Feature StoryHonorable MentionThe Sonoma Index-TribuneAdele Kids Are ’Waking Lives’ Through MusicDavid TempletonAllowing the students’ quotes to help tell the story makes it come alive. Their enthusiasm is palpable.
Non-Profile Feature StoryHonorable MentionVisalia Times-Delta & Tulare Advance-RegisterChanging lives at the ranchJuan VillaA great example of persistence in the face of initial government reassurances. County officials changed their plans as a result.
Online General Excellence1stGrunion GazetteGazettes.comStaffThe site is well organized and easy to navigate, with a nice balance of text and images. The article page makes it easy to read an article and move on to the next one.
Online General Excellence2ndLedger DispatchLedger.newsMatthew Hedger
Online General ExcellenceHonorable MentionLos Angeles Downtown Newsladowntownnews.comStaff
Online General Excellence1stLos Angeles Timeslatimes.comLos Angeles Times Staff
Online General Excellence1stMountain View Voicemv-voice.comStaff
Online General Excellence2ndPalo Alto Weeklypaloaltoonline.comStaff
Online General Excellence2ndPleasanton Weeklypleasantonweekly.comStaff
Online General Excellence2ndRecord SearchlightRedding.comStaff
Online General Excellence2ndSan Jose Mercury NewsMercuryNews.comStaff
Online General ExcellenceHonorable MentionSanta Maria Timessantamariatimes.comJason Anderson, Braxton Carroll, Staff
Online General Excellence1stSierra Starsierrastar.comStaff
Online General ExcellenceHonorable MentionThe Almanacalmanacnews.comStaff
Online General ExcellenceHonorable MentionThe Beach Reportertbrnews.comStaff
Online General Excellence2ndThe Fresno Beefresnobee.comStaffSite is clean and easy to navigate. It is concise and is a good source of news and information the the market. It does not assault the senses. It is simple and useable.
Online General ExcellenceHonorable MentionThe Napa Valley Registernapavalleyregister.comStaff
Online General Excellence1stThe Press Democratpressdemocrat.comStaffIt is interesting. There are a lot of items that catch my eye and they are all local. I appreciate the focus on the market.
Online General Excellence2ndThe Recordrecordnet.comStaff
Online General ExcellenceHonorable MentionThe Recordertherecorder.comStaff
Online General Excellence1stThe Signalscvsignal.comStaff
Online General Excellence1stThe Sonoma Index-Tribunesonomanews.comStaff
Online General Excellence1stThe Tribunesanluisobispo.comStaff
Online General Excellence2ndThe Trinity Journaltrinityjournal.comStaff
Online Photo Story/EssayHonorable MentionBlack Voice NewsWhat we Lost in the Fire and Regulation & ReformBenoit and Kathy Malpettes, Andre Loftis
Online Photo Story/Essay2ndChico Enterprise-RecordCattle branding at Llano Seco RanchBill HusaThe photographs are very well executed, especially given the challenging environment.
Online Photo Story/EssayHonorable MentionDaily PressLife after the Bluecut FireJames Quigg
Online Photo Story/Essay1stMarin Independent JournalCheckmateAlan DepThe photographer has captured some very nice moments here. The pictures give a lovely sense of what the event was all about. A tight edit brings focus to the most telling images.
Online Photo Story/EssayHonorable MentionMarin Independent JournalSlayingRobert Tong
Online Photo Story/EssayHonorable MentionMountain View VoiceRobots rolling in doughMichelle LeInteresting. Nerds at a table with computers while workers and robots make pizza. This essay made me want to try the pizza, although it looks a little burnt around the edges, and I would be interested in a followup, if I were a regular reader of your paper.
Online Photo Story/EssayHonorable MentionPalo Alto WeeklyHomecomingVeronica Weber
Online Photo Story/EssayHonorable MentionPalo Alto WeeklyTurning lives aroundVeronica Weber
Online Photo Story/Essay1stPetaluma Argus-CourierFire destroys 4 east Petaluma homesCrissy Pascual
Online Photo Story/Essay2ndSan Francisco ChronicleBlack Lives, Black VoicesHamed Aleaziz, Leah Millis, Lucio VillaIntense and compelling portraits with quote overlays draw in the readers. We want to know more about these individuals. And we do learn more through an audio component. I love the idea of an interactive photo essay and this is perfectly executed. This is what sets it apart from the other entries. Interactive. Innovative. Compelling. Perfection.
Online Photo Story/Essay2ndShasta Lake BulletinChildren’s Community Christmas PartyRon Harrington
Online Photo Story/Essay1stThe AlmanacPraise amid tragedyMichelle LeWell done. I understood from the accompanying text that although there was likely another news story about the tragedy, this essay was about the “homegoing.”
Online Photo Story/Essay2ndThe Downey PatriotDowney Christmas ParadeEric PierceBringing a routine photo assignment like a Christmas parade to life is sometimes a challenge. These photos captured the event well and made me feel like I was there.
Online Photo Story/EssayHonorable MentionThe Downey PatriotFallen Officer Memorial Dedication Ceremony Honoring Ricky GalvezEric Pierce
Online Photo Story/EssayHonorable MentionThe RecordBernie SandersCalixtro Romias
Online Photo Story/Essay1stThe Sacramento BeeFaisal RazmalRenée C. ByerThe first images is like a bullet to the heart. It’s a killer. You wince and look away. But your drawn back in wanting to know more. The images and text break your heart as you learn everything this man and his family have gone through and are continue to go through. In this photo essay, you join them on their journey and hope life gets better. Storytelling at its finest.
Online Photo Story/EssayHonorable MentionThe Sacramento BeeMalalai RafiRenée C. ByerThe headline says it all: “Photos reveal heartbreak and despair of new widow’s American life.” The images bring the reader into the family’s fold. You live their struggle. You feel their pain. You become part of their family and invested in their journey. You hope they make it and healing occurs.
Online Photo Story/Essay1stThe Salinas CalifornianThe Quinceañera of Karizma VargasChelcey AdamiHeartwarming pictures of families and friends coming together. Very nicely done.
Online Photo Story/Essay2ndThe Salinas CalifornianJimenez Family PosadaJay Dunn
Online Photo Story/Essay2ndThe SignalSave LexiKatharine LotzeSadness. Anger. Despair. All emotions are captured in the “Save Lexi” drama that shook up an entire community.
Online Photo Story/Essay1stThe UnionA Day in the Life of Western Nevada CountyStaffI like the execution of this project and that it’s a mix of staff-produced photos and crowdsourced photos. It really does tell the story of “the day in the life of” through a 24-hour visual tour. Nicely done.
Photo Illustration1stAuburn JournalUSA vs The WorldMegan Houchin, Ike DodsonNice use of photo to visually show the headline and give a clear idea of what the story is about.
Photo Illustration2ndLos Angeles TimesThe Cost of Flying CheapMichael WaraksaI like the symbolism here with the gumball machine. You put in your quarter, and you’re not quite sure what you’re going to get for it. It also illustrates the possibility of paying for extras such as additional baggage, sodas, etc. So, it does a good job of complementing the story as well as provides and interesting visual to draw the reader in.
Photo IllustrationHonorable MentionLos Angeles TimesTrump TVMichael WhitleyGraphics show the key point of the story — that the election has changed television.
Photo IllustrationHonorable MentionLos Angeles TimesGlobalization of OxyContinMichael WhitleyClever use of the topic of the story, OxyContin pills, to illustrate the topic — how the drug moving to worldwide distribution, by using pills to make a depiction of the continents.
Photo IllustrationHonorable MentionMarin Independent JournalHealth, She WroteAudria Ruscitti
Photo Illustration2ndMetro Silicon ValleyCar and DriverlessKara BrownThis illustration perfectly captures what the story purports (based on the headline) to address. The man and woman seem to be having fun while drinking their libations of choice, which might actually be a possibility with an autonomous vehicle. I like that the car is fancy — it gives the reader these cars are expensive, which they definitely will be until they become mainstream.
Photo Illustration2ndMonterey HeraldAll-county baseballMonterey Herald Staff
Photo IllustrationHonorable MentionRecord SearchlightFalcons footballl previewGreg Barnette and Aimee WandroSuperimposed team mascot and placement of players moves what could be a routine photo into an interesting lead-in to a story.
Photo Illustration1stSan Francisco ChronicleFuture too bright for their own good?John BlanchardThis was the most expressive illustration but also quite compelling for the reader. It pairs well with the story. Beyond telling the story, this illustration captures the emotion of the story as well.
Photo Illustration1stThe Beach Reporter40th AnniversaryStaffBrilliant. I would pick up this issue and read this story immediately, which of course is what you want the cover illustration to accomplish. I love the blend of the classic California feel with the current pier. This completely works.
Photo IllustrationHonorable MentionThe Beach ReporterSeasons GreetingsAraby Patch, Paul KryczkoFun. I have to admit I couldn’t immediately tell that the snow was fake. Of course I could tell from the title of your publication, however. A very cheery mix of colors goes well with the Seasons Greetings sign.
Photo IllustrationHonorable MentionThe RecorderLawyers Without BordersJason DoiyI like the state bar official sticking out of the plane, the use of the State Bar emblem on the plane and the world to show the plane is going around it “without borders.” Clever.
Photo Story/EssayHonorable MentionChino-Chino Hills ChampionWhere the Wild Things AreMarianne Napoles
Photo Story/Essay2ndDaily PressA slice of hopeJames QuiggA great photo essay captures something that others never get to see. Typically, it’s a hidden place or a unique moment. This one is different, because it focuses on something that everyone could see if they paid attention, yet never does. How often does one notice a homeless person’s shoes? And even if they do get noticed, how often does one realize there’s a story behind them, that one of a person’s few possessions might carry meaning with significance others can’t comprehend?
Photo Story/EssayHonorable MentionDana Point TimesSilence, War and ArtMatt CortinaThe face alone of the soldier at attention depicts his duty and dedication. Great capture here. Interesting story on healing. Perhaps additional photos on the creation of the artwork.
Photo Story/Essay2ndDel Norte TriplicateThe Little Things: Dew DropsBryant AndersonVery cool close-up photos! Great mechanics to photos: Macro photography shows the dew. You have six very well-done photos here.
Photo Story/Essay2ndFeather River BulletinAg & ArtDelaine Fragnoli, James Machado
Photo Story/Essay1stHalf Moon Bay ReviewPumpkin weigh-offJohn Green
Photo Story/EssayHonorable MentionLedger DispatchBunco for Breast CancerStaffWhat a successful event with a huge turnout. I love the capture of the evening’s theme. Nice work.
Photo Story/Essay1stLos Angeles TimesNavigating the River of DreamsGary CoronadoAn extremely compelling lead image propelled this essay into first place. The photographer did a great job of putting faces on the issue of migration and those fleeing oppression. Gorgeous images, filled with emotion that tell the story of the people and the hardships they endure. Intimate and powerful.
Photo Story/Essay2ndLos Angeles TimesBrazil’s Battle Against ZikaKatie FalkenbergCovering a global issue is difficult but the photographer found way to tell the Zika story through a number of different sources using strong story-telling images.
Photo Story/EssayHonorable MentionLos Angeles TimesRisking It All to Reach Our DoorGenaro MolinaBeautifully composed images that capture strong expression, dynamic colors and a strong sense of the hardships the migrants endure.
Photo Story/Essay1stMoorpark AcornFur flies at agility contestStaffThe fur flies! I must say, what does it for me is the photographer capturing the moment of the dog jumping through the hoop. What a great main photo! It plays well in the essay. Nice work! Congratulations.
Photo Story/EssayHonorable MentionMoorpark AcornTime to reflectStaffGreat catching the photo of the young scout in his moment. His cherishing of the American flag drives the entire essay. Nice work.
Photo Story/Essay2ndMountain View VoiceNo easy solution for city’s car-dwellersMichelle LePhotographing the homeless is no easy task. Congrats for obtaining a photo inside of the gentleman’s RV, where he’s living. Nice work.
Photo Story/EssayHonorable MentionSan Jose Mercury NewsWhere We Live: City RootsPatrick TehanThe photographer showed great creativity in finding and showcasing these trees — beauty that we pass everyday. Each image has a mood and personality. Lovely.
Photo Story/Essay1stSan Marino TribuneSpring BreakMitch Lehman, Mary BuckleyWhat time is must have taken to collect, narrow and lay out this piece. I love the map behind the photos, which, yes, I know, most are selfies and posed vacation photos. Regardless a great example of a photo essay complete with location (the map) and person’s name and image. I believe you managed to capture a winning selection using submitted photos — that’s a feat itself. Congratulations!
Photo Story/EssayHonorable MentionSanta Cruz SentinelPounding November SurfStaff
Photo Story/EssayHonorable MentionSierra StarFeathered FriendsTricia Nickerson
Photo Story/EssayHonorable MentionThe Camarillo AcornSky’s the limitStaff
Photo Story/Essay1stThe Desert SunMigrants flooding the borderOmar OrnelasThis collection’s ability to bring the reader in, not just to the setting of the shelter but these people’s very lives, in just a few photos is really effective. Yes, there’s the pain in their eyes, but there is also proof of what is important enough to them that they might make this journey.
Photo Story/EssayHonorable MentionThe Downey PatriotRicky Galvez Memorial DedicationEric PierceWhat touching moments. Here you get to see the relatives behind these officers.
Photo Story/EssayHonorable MentionThe ReporterGolden TicketJoel Rosenbaum
Photo Story/EssayHonorable MentionThe Trinity JournalRodeo rides to WeavervilleWayne R. Agner
Photo Story/Essay1stThousand Oaks AcornGames with a heartBobby Curtis
Photo Story/Essay2ndThousand Oaks AcornSuper Bowl Teams Raise the FlagMichael Coons, Timm Sinclair
Profile Feature StoryHonorable MentionBlack Voice NewsCreating a Current for ChangeS.E. Williams, Benoit and Kathy Malphettes
Profile Feature Story1stChico News & ReviewBrick by brickKen Smith
Profile Feature Story2ndDesert DispatchBarstow mom copes with son’s death, uncertain futureJose QuinteroThis piece succeeds by giving the reader an unusually raw and honest look at a parent in the aftermath of a child’s death. The reporter does not fall back on cliches and instead presents the rough, unvarnished reality of the situation.
Profile Feature Story2ndGood TimesNotes From the End of the WorldSteve Palopoli
Profile Feature StoryHonorable MentionHalf Moon Bay ReviewBig heart fuels Cougar trainerJohn Murphy
Profile Feature StoryHonorable MentionLamorinda WeeklyLamorinda Realtor’s Long Journey HomeNick MarnellWow. That’s a potent (controversial?) story. Confidently written. One I’d pass on to a friend.
Profile Feature StoryHonorable MentionLompoc RecordBeyond Prison WallsWillis Jacobson
Profile Feature StoryHonorable MentionNew TimesMetamorphosisGlen Starkey
Profile Feature Story2ndNorth Coast JournalProve Them WrongThadeus GreensonImpressively detailed account of a local hero. Lots of legwork. Some nice sections, some stellar quotes.
Profile Feature Story1stPalisades NewsWilliams Solos to Hawaii—and BackLaurel BusbyTerrific subject — Williams is a great interview — and the piece kept me engaged all the way through.
Profile Feature StoryHonorable MentionPasadena OutlookJohn Naber’s Olympian Task of Inspiring OthersNick OstillerI like the structure. Writer takes us to a dramatic, pivotal moment in Naber’s life, hooking us for a good read whether or not you know the Olympian’s story or not. Including Stites and French was good work. Too often, stories like this have just the one source.
Profile Feature Story2ndPetaluma Argus-CourierBeekeeping gives blind woman new focusHannah BeausangVery interesting story.
Profile Feature Story2ndPleasanton WeeklyA Year After Pier 14Meredith BauerLeader in the clubhouse. Topical. Timely. Local. Just the right length. Some nice writing.
Profile Feature Story1stSan Francisco ChronicleTiny Curry Corner in Hayward feels the love for the last timeJonathan KauffmanWonderfully written and entertaining, while giving insight into a little zone of culture even people who live in the area might not know about. (Also made me hungry for curry.)
Profile Feature StoryHonorable MentionSan Francisco ExaminerMeet the SF man responsible for more than a quarter of all tech bus complaintsJoe Fitzgerald RodriguezWell-written piece gives us a sense of the man and the problem.
Profile Feature StoryHonorable MentionSan Jose Mercury NewsPriscilla Chan profileQueenie WongThis was interesting and well written.
Profile Feature StoryHonorable MentionSanta Barbara IndependentArchie McLaren’s Indulgent LifeMatt Kettmann
Profile Feature Story2ndSanta Cruz SentinelThough his life was short, Joe Spence died with a clear sense of destinyWallace BaineReporter Wallace Baine immediately captures the essence of Joe Spence, a young man who died in a helicopter crash in Iraq. Spence, he writes, was driven by a sense of mission, that is “no better illustrated than by the date of his enlistment into the U.S. Marine Corps: Sept. 12, 2001.” Baine goes on to show how that sense of mission played out in the various aspects of Spence’s life, beginning in his middle-school years.
Profile Feature Story1stSanta Maria SunThe locals who stood at Standing RockBrenna SwanstonReporter brought an important national story down to the local level by providing a strong voice in Manly-Gil.
Profile Feature StoryHonorable MentionSignal TribuneMr. Alvarez calls the US homeCJ DabloThis was well researched and reported. Writer has a good balance of sources in the story. A lot of information is provided in an easily readable way.
Profile Feature StoryHonorable MentionThe AlmanacServing those who served — Formerly homeless veterans share their storiesKate BradshawI love this! Highly original, poignant, topical and well-designed. Great local journalism.
Profile Feature Story1stThe ArkPeninsula woman lauded as leaderHeather Lobdell & Elliot KarlanGreat portrait of a multi-layered business woman who was a pioneer in several areas. Lots of information in this story that flowed well — and it illustrated local history well, too.
Profile Feature StoryHonorable MentionThe Business JournalFemale programming director celebrates a decade in techValerie Shelton
Profile Feature Story1stThe Fresno BeeAs new Syrian refugees adapt to life in Fresno …Andrea CastilloBeautiful story! Well-written, well-reported, and a nice sketch.
Profile Feature StoryHonorable MentionThe Fresno BeeComplexities, discord revealed as Kuchar leaves Fresno PhilharmonicDonald MunroVery well-written and interesting. Great job!
Profile Feature Story1stThe Napa Valley RegisterAn artist in his own landSean ScullyThis story had all the elements of a terrific profile, starting with the compelling six-paragraph opening. The structure is well-crafted, guiding the reader with a clear sense of scene. We learn not only about Huether but about Napa and the nature of public art. The subject is carefully described, faults and all. And the reporter elevates the piece by exploring the central tension created by Huether’s ambition and high-profile position in the community.
Profile Feature StoryHonorable MentionThe Napa Valley RegisterInnkeeper’s book traces road from priesthood, through acceptance, to NapaHoward YuneThis story — ostensibly a profile of a local merchant — was a pleasure to read both because the subject matter was unique and the writing was clear and crisp, with an inviting opening, a natural flow of ideas and strong quotes. We get a sense of Gunther’s life — and why he opened up his B&B.
Profile Feature StoryHonorable MentionThe Napa Valley RegisterTaking control: Napa woman with cancer predisposition fights backMaria SestitoThis clearly told story is a great example of “news you can use,” putting a face on an important subject. Blasky appears to trust the reporter, and her openness about her health and her life allows the story to break through fear and become uplifting.
Profile Feature Story2ndThe Press DemocratThompson battles gun-control gridlockPaul Payne
Profile Feature Story2ndThe RecorderThe Great DissenterScott GrahamA complex, interesting portrait — good job of tackling what to non-lawyers is an obscure, complicated topic.
Profile Feature Story2ndThe Sacramento BeeDid Mike Lehmkuhl have to die?Cynthia HubertIncredibly thorough. This gives a glimpse into the downward spiral of a man with mental illness and those who tried to help all along that route. This is a case of taking a basic cops incident off the logs and making it a riveting story/backstory.
Profile Feature StoryHonorable MentionThe San Diego Union-TribuneWhen Black Panthers roamed San DiegoPeter RoweAn intriguing look into recent history, using more recent documents from the FBI. Sometimes history has to cool down a bit before you can get the big picture.
Profile Feature StoryHonorable MentionThe TribuneTim Walsh’s coaching journey leads him to perfect fit with Cal PolyLucas Clark
Profile Feature Story1stTwin Cities TimesShe brings the heatDerek WilsonEasily the best in the category. The writing is engaging and accessible, and Hadley’s story is a great one to tell. This is the kind of story that makes you want to follow an athlete’s career. Well done.
Profile Feature Story1stVentura County StarI was the bearded ladyAmanda Covarrubias
Profile Feature StoryHonorable MentionVentura County Star18-year-old Agoura resident fights to preserve ’Greatest Generation’Tom Kisken
Special SectionHonorable MentionAntelope Valley PressWelcomeStaff
Special Section2ndAppeal-DemocratProspect MagazineStaff
Special Section1stElk Grove CitizenVote! 2016 Voter’s GuideElk Grove Citizen staff
Special Section2ndFeather River Bulletin150th anniversaryStaffThis was a wonderful ode to the history of a newspaper and, in turn, the history of a community. The rendering of all ads as vintage added to the entire section looking authentic and important. Bravo!
Special Section2ndGrunion GazetteLongines Special SectionStaffWhoever chose the cover artist, kudos! The clean layout inside makes it easy to read. Lively photo selection, good choice of typefaces.
Special SectionHonorable MentionHealdsburg TribuneCelebrate Earth DayStaffInteresting stories that melded the area’s treasures with Earth Day theme. Solid, pleasing design and good writing! Small, but mighty!
Special SectionHonorable MentionIdyllwild Town CrierLemon Lily Festival ProgramHalie Wilson, Lisa StreeterJam packed with great event information and creative design touches.
Special SectionHonorable MentionLa Cañada Flintridge OutlookBack to SchoolStaff
Special SectionHonorable MentionLos Altos Town CrierLiving in Los Altos MagazineStaffStrong sense of community displayed. Easy to navigate product. Photos used in a pleasing manner. Useful as well as entertaining information inside.
Special SectionHonorable MentionLos Angeles TimesYear in ReviewLos Angeles Times StaffLiked reprinting front pages in miniature. Covered a lot of ground, with a good mix of stories. Cartoons were a nice touch, as was the Capture L.A. photo contest.
Special Section1stMonterey County WeeklySummer Activities GuideStaffLove the cover — it says right away, ’I’m something different.’ And the repeating of the “badge” theme inside ties it all together. Cute photos and good info for families. Some narrative, long list, useful to users.
Special Section2ndSan Clemente Times2016 Election IssueStaffConcise, interesting and put forth in a manner that could be digested in one sitting. Graphic design and layout elements as well as tight editing and thoughtful presentation. As a voter, I would look forward to receiving this guide every election cycle.
Special Section1stSan Francisco Business TimesThe Business of PrideStaffExpertly assembled section. Top-notch design and art direction. Compelling coverage of businesses, individuals, issues and industries taylored to the LGBTQ community but woven together in a way making it relevant to the business world in general.
Special Section2ndSan Francisco ChronicleHabitat Magazine: Bay Area Home and StyleKitty Morgan, Erin Feher, Elizabeth BurrStylish, classy, beautiful. Fun and sassy. Well-thought out with definite attitude. Tries to get at what makes the area tick and thrive at home.
Special SectionHonorable MentionSan Jose Mercury News2016 — It was a wild ride!StaffHaving elbow cross the gutter was brilliant and the finger pointing and expressions in the photos on 5 were well chosen. Lots of fun to go through.
Special SectionHonorable MentionSan Marino OutlookBack to SchoolStaff
Special SectionHonorable MentionSanta Barbara IndependentMeet the MakersIndy Staff
Special SectionHonorable MentionSanta Monica Daily PressApril Fool’sStaff
Special Section1stThe ArkHome: Sept 28, 2016StaffOverall great design and good content. Very impressed with how the advertisements became an integral part of the section, as if they actually features within the section. Beautifully designed. Nice variety of stories surrounding interior design, from teens to professionals.
Special Section1stThe Bakersfield CalifornianThe Story of Us: Kern County, 1866-2016Staff
Special SectionHonorable MentionThe Beach ReporterKindnessStaffCompelling; good story-telling; even the ads were about philanthropy.
Special Section2ndThe Davis EnterpriseWelcome to DavisStaff
Special Section2ndThe Desert SunTrump TowersStaff
Special Section2ndThe Fresno BeeLiving in Misery: Fresno Slum HousingAndrea Castillo, Barbara Anderson and BoNhia Lee
Special SectionHonorable MentionThe Press DemocratJack London special sectionStaff
Special Section1stThe RecordOutlookStaff
Special SectionHonorable MentionThe ReporterFocus on DixonReporter staff
Special Section1stThe Sacramento BeeNo Safe PlaceStephen Magagnini, Renée C. Byer, Jessica KoscielniakEmotional, impactful, riveting. Multimedia added another layer. A brilliant, in-depth effort. The design was clean with an eye to engagement. Useful graphs added depth and understanding. Powerful images, writing, headlines. Every element added to the over package. And even a glimmer of hope. Excellent! Would like to see a follow-up, which maybe there has been.
Special SectionHonorable MentionThe Sun (San Bernardino)San Bernardino shooting anniversarySan Bernardino Sun staff
Special Section1stThe UnionA Day in the Life of Western Nevada CountyStaff
Special SectionHonorable MentionTracy PressCelebrate TracyWill Fleet, Michael Langley, Tracy Press staffTells a story in multiple ways. Abundant use of easy to understand charts and graphs, lists and comparisons. Printing the original material from area children was a nice touch. Something for everyone in this section.
Special Sports SectionHonorable MentionAntelope Valley PressFootball Preview 2016Sports Staff
Special Sports Section1stGrunion Gazette2016 High School Football PreviewStaff
Special Sports Section2ndLedger Dispatch2016 Amador Varsity FootballStaff
Special Sports SectionHonorable MentionLodi News-SentinelLocker roomStaffA lot of information is packaged effectively. Great service to readers.
Special Sports Section1stLos Angeles TimesKobe BryantLos Angeles TimesA compelling look at the career of a Los Angeles sports icon, covering multiple angles, professional and personal. It gives readers a comprehensive, and at times, behind-the-scenes look at his life and impact on the city.
Special Sports Section1stMariposa GazetteYear of the GrizzlyMatt Johnson
Special Sports Section2ndMerced Sun-StarHigh School FootballShawn Jansen, Sean Lynch, Andrew KuhnStrong presentation throughout. Well-thought-out and organized section. A lot of teams from a large coverage area are effectively outlined through capsules and conference roundups, even though there isn’t space to individually preview each team. All-area team, Top-5s and coaches’ polls are unique and add value. Posing of the Merced players at the theater shows creative thinking.
Special Sports SectionHonorable MentionSan Jose Mercury NewsPlay Ball special baseball sectionStaff
Special Sports SectionHonorable MentionSan Marino TribuneThe Next LevelMitch Lehman, Nancy Lem
Special Sports Section2ndThe Capistrano DispatchSan Juan Football PreviewSteve Breazeale
Special Sports Section2ndThe Desert SunCareerBuilder Challenge golf preview sectionStaff
Special Sports SectionHonorable MentionThe Modesto BeeThe Modesto Bee high school football preview special sectionStaff
Special Sports SectionHonorable MentionThe Napa Valley RegisterAug. 25, 2016Marty James, Andy Wilcox, Yousef BaigNice clean, if unspectacular, appearance of the section, and quality writing. I especially liked the photographer’s ability to think through what could be rather static posed photos and turn them into colorful and interesting portraits. They really pop out.
Special Sports Section2ndThe Orange County RegisterBaseball 2016StaffGood use of graphics and layout. A nice mix of team previews and features. I especially enjoyed the articles on advanced analytics and how they have changed the modern game.
Special Sports Section1stThe RecordPrep FootballStaff
Special Sports Section1stThe Signal2016 High School Football PreviewStaffThis section, very simply, has it all. This is an expertly thought-out and executed content package, from it’s in-depth coverage of each team to its artistic magazine-style design flourishes to its combination of both information-based and personality-driven stories (Apsay). Photos and label heads on features have impact and are clever, respectively.
Special Sports SectionHonorable MentionThe Sonoma Index-TribuneJan. 11 and 14, 2016Bill Hoban
Special Sports SectionHonorable MentionThousand Oaks AcornPigskin Preview 2016Staff
Sports Action Photo1stChico Enterprise-RecordShot on goalBill HusaFantastic capture through the net with the tender in the foreground and full action of the shooter, great positioning to get both players into a tight frame. Nice work.
Sports Action PhotoHonorable MentionGrunion GazetteOn The FieldKevin Oules
Sports Action PhotoHonorable MentionIdyllwild Town CrierJenna ArnettChandra Lynn
Sports Action Photo2ndLos Angeles TimesSimone BilesWally SkalijAn unusual angle from which to get a shot, but the perfect from which to do so. The ponytail is perpendicular to the beam, as is Biles’ body. The floor mat in the background with the pieces of chalk and footprints made me want to look at this photo for a long time. Nice work!
Sports Action PhotoHonorable MentionLos Angeles TimesUsain BoltWally SkalijNice emotion and clean background. Good choice of point of view.
Sports Action PhotoHonorable MentionLos Banos EnterpriseFull layout for touchdownGene Lieb
Sports Action Photo1stMoorpark AcornTrail blazerMichael CoonsThis dynamic photo receives top billing from me for the dynamic power of its lighting and the masterful way that it freezes a moment in time without losing the sense of action. Water drops cast dramatic shadows across the subject and etch the path of the ball through the air for the viewer.
Sports Action PhotoHonorable MentionMoorpark AcornRecord vaultMichael CoonsThe photographer captures the story of a record-breaking vault with a photo that screams elation. The subject’s joy appears to be elevating him skyward. The crisp, clean focus of the shot allows the subject matter to vault this piece up the rankings.
Sports Action PhotoHonorable MentionPorterville RecorderGrizzlies maul MaraudersChieko Hara
Sports Action Photo1stSanta Barbara IndependentSandspit SurfPaul Wellman
Sports Action PhotoHonorable MentionSanta Barbara IndependentSB v SLO RugbyPaul Wellman
Sports Action Photo2ndSimi Valley AcornAll-Star catchRichard Gillard
Sports Action Photo1stSt. Helena StarTwo down, one to goYousef Baig
Sports Action Photo2ndThe Capistrano DispatchShow Jumping at the Riding ParkAllison JarrellCrisp, clean light and a deep sense of elegance pervade this photo. All the power of horse and jumper are captured, statuesque, by the photographer. The piece is as noble as the sport it depicts.
Sports Action Photo1stThe Davis EnterpriseRain-soaked soccerWayne TilcockVisually interesting photo of the player in full stride preparing to boot the ball into the goal, with a full-on storm providing the special effects. This looks like a challenging photo to get and it was done perfectly.
Sports Action PhotoHonorable MentionThe Davis EnterpriseLeaps and BoundsWayne TilcockThis was a nice action shot captured at just the right moment. Well done.
Sports Action PhotoHonorable MentionThe Davis EnterpriseWhat a stealWayne TilcockGood action shot of the steal, showing the determination of the player chasing the ball and the wince of the player who lost it.
Sports Action Photo2ndThe Desert SunSerena WilliamsJay CalderonThis shot shows that sometimes the best shot during a sporting event happens after the ball has left the frame. Nice movement in the photo, with her skirt still suspended in air, while capturing her extreme athleticism.
Sports Action Photo1stThe Fresno BeeJesse Aitken slams against the bullEric Paul ZamoraThe movement and flow of this photo is what sets it apart. It’s a still but the action is inherent in the photo. You’re sure what comes next, and it won’t be good.
Sports Action PhotoHonorable MentionThe Fresno Bee1-11 ’Dogs keep it closeJohn Walker
Sports Action PhotoHonorable MentionThe Fresno BeeBears roar in stirring victory over wrestling rivalCraig Kohlruss
Sports Action Photo2ndThe Intermountain NewsWhat’s the call ump?Craig Harrington
Sports Action Photo1stThe Orange County RegisterOut at HomeBill AlkoferThe cloud of dust, the dirt flying in the air, the catcher obscured, except for his legs and arms. The expression on the runner’s face sliding into home plate with the ball in the catcher’s mitt. This photo captures an electric moment of one of the most exciting plays in baseball. Excellent shot! A nice moment with emotion and action.
Sports Action PhotoHonorable MentionThe Orange County RegisterWayward BatKevin SullivanA moment you don’t get to see often. Clean and good read.
Sports Action Photo2ndThe Press DemocratPlaying into the NightChristopher ChungThis photo is all about the timing. A split second one way or the other and this wouldn’t have been nearly as good. Good framing as well.
Sports Action PhotoHonorable MentionThe RecordChavez FrankClifford OtoLove this shot. Emotion in the rain, movement by the QB and 56, framed with the two receivers in the foreground — it’s all here. The internal scale hurts a little, with all the subjects being so small. Hope it ran big.
Sports Action PhotoHonorable MentionThe RecordBoys BasketballClifford OtoGreat lines, displays of athleticism, and concentration with those strained faces. And whether it was great settings or digital darkroom work, extra credit here for perfect exposure of players against white uniforms and several harsh background lights.
Sports Action Photo2ndThe SignalHart Football catchDan WatsonWhat make this second place is the fact that we can see the eyeball of the receiver AND the placement of the ball just before it hits his hands. Clean background. Night football is harder to shoot than say a day soccer game from a exposure point of view which is why this image was chosen over third place.
Sports Action Photo2ndThe Sonoma Index-TribuneLady Dragons Lose Soccer ShootoutBill HobanThe photographer captured some nice expressions on the faces of these soccer players — the joy of gaining the goal, and the anguish of having been scored on.
Sports Action PhotoHonorable MentionTimes-Herald, VallejoContact SportChris RileyObviously they key element is the ball in the face, but more importantly is the fact that you can see the emotions on both of the player’s faces.
Sports Action PhotoHonorable MentionTracy PressOne giant leapGlenn MooreI love the composition of this photo; the flying sand, the low, intimate angle, the cartwheeling body and the sense of weightlessness.
Sports Action Photo1stVisalia Times-Delta & Tulare Advance-RegisterMt. Whitney vs. El Diamante baseballRon HolmanA great example of how an Arts section can dive into one of a region’s largest events and give it extensive coverage without overexposing or boring readers. The pre-festival coverage and the post included interviews with big-name musicians that offered insight and novelty. The rest of the two sections were thorough, varied, and fun to read.
Sports Feature Photo1stChico Enterprise-RecordRed and goldDan ReidelGood use of colors and layers during a non-action scene of a sporting event.
Sports Feature PhotoHonorable MentionLos Angeles Daily NewsThe flying batJohn McCoyGreat capture of fraction of a second off the field action
Sports Feature PhotoHonorable MentionFolsom TelegraphA coach’s cry of joyBill Sullivan
Sports Feature PhotoHonorable MentionFree LanceWomen’s U.S. OpenNick Lovejoy
Sports Feature Photo2ndLedger DispatchMaking History: Champions!Staff
Sports Feature PhotoHonorable MentionLedger DispatchCan’t Fence Me In!Staff
Sports Feature Photo1stLos Altos Town CrierDon’t miss out on the playoffsMegan V. WinslowGreat action shot, very dynamic.
Sports Feature PhotoHonorable MentionLos Altos Town CrierPlayers race by cheerleadersMegan V. Winslow
Sports Feature Photo2ndLos Angeles TimesU.S. Boxer Shakur StevensonRobert GauthierThe photo captured a peculiar reaction by the losing opponent at just the right moment — a testament to the photographer’s sharp-eyed attention. Sad moment but the emotion is captured perfectly. You can see the outline of his frown under his shirt. Great image.
Sports Feature PhotoHonorable MentionLos Angeles TimesIceland GymnastWally SkalijPhotographer imagined an image and made it happen. Such a great detailed shot.
Sports Feature Photo2ndMoorpark AcornCold nightMichael Coons
Sports Feature Photo2ndPorterville RecorderCoach showered with GatoradeChieko HaraGreat job capturing a moment of unbridled joy in victory.
Sports Feature PhotoHonorable MentionRedlands Daily FactsHigh jumpJennifer Cappuccio
Sports Feature Photo1stSan Francisco ChronicleCelebrating with StephScott StrazzanteThis photo screams victory with a stunning clarity and force. It almost puts the viewer courtside to the point where the victory yell can be heard.
Sports Feature PhotoHonorable MentionSan Jose Mercury NewsCoaching a game he’s never playedNhat V. MeyerVery moving image. The photo is so well crafted, with the two lights, the push of the athlete and the look of determination on the face of the coach.
Sports Feature Photo1stSierra StarYosemite Youth FootballBrian WilkinsonPhotographer captures a moment for the ages in youth football as two tiny players stare intensely at their young comrade, all of them in very professional 3-point stances. Are they awaiting his command? Are they all executing a winning Super Bowl play? The subjects’ faces and body language naturally convey the spirit of both youth sports and teamwork.
Sports Feature PhotoHonorable MentionSierra StarWaite, Burns win 29th Annual Smokey 10KBrian WilkinsonThis collection of images documents lesser-seen moments in a running event. Photographer showcases various facets of an all-ages event that humanize and bring depth to what are usually predictable photos.
Sports Feature Photo1stSimi Valley AcornTough breakMichael CoonsGreat photo. Nice, sharp focus on the agony of defeat, with the thrill of victory in the background. Great job getting into a spot to capture both in the same frame.
Sports Feature Photo2ndSt. Helena StarLet the Games beginYousef BaigWell-composed and timed shot that creates anticipation for what happens next in both the photo and the subject’s story.
Sports Feature PhotoHonorable MentionThe AcornAll hands on deckBobby Curtis
Sports Feature Photo2ndThe Bakersfield CalifornianBCHS football team loss to Campolindo HighHenry BarriosNice moment of good sportsmanship captured
Sports Feature Photo1stThe Davis EnterpriseDiving silhouetteWayne Tilcock
Sports Feature PhotoHonorable MentionThe Desert SunCub SwansonRichard LuiVery clean, well executed shot feature shot.
Sports Feature Photo1stThe Modesto BeeRodeoAndy AlfaroThis is an outstanding “right-place, right-time” photograph. The bewildered, mud-soaked cowboy, the staggering, mud-soaked cow tell a tale of man and beast losing to nature. A compelling, timeless image.
Sports Feature PhotoHonorable MentionThe Modesto BeeBasketball celebrationStaffGreat celebration shot!
Sports Feature PhotoHonorable MentionThe Napa Valley RegisterJulia SanGiacomoJL Sousa
Sports Feature PhotoHonorable MentionThe RecordManteca BaseClifford OtoCelebrations are not easy to shoot, but this came out pretty well. Excitement comes through in moment on faces as well as actions of kid.
Sports Feature Photo2ndThe TribuneFired Up FootballJoe JohnstonClean, effective photo showing the spirit of competition and player intensity. Captures the emotion of the moment without necessarily being the action photo.
Sports Feature PhotoHonorable MentionThe Weekly CalistoganOne of Calistoga’s greatest comes homeDave MosherPhotographer chose a vantage point for a speaker shot that takes full advantage of the leading lines, patriotic elements and subtle details throughout. Shifting the focal point however led to a lack of detail in the featured subject’s face.
Sports Feature Photo2ndThousand Oaks AcornThrill of victoryMichael CoonsGreat job capturing emotion in the girls’ faces close up.
Sports Feature PhotoHonorable MentionThousand Oaks AcornHey Blue, Should We Call the Game?Richard Gillard
Sports Feature Photo1stVisalia Times-Delta & Tulare Advance-RegisterGirls basketball player of yearRon HolmanPerfect timing. Clean background. Most importantly is the fact that we can see the face of the runner! Without that face the photo wouldn’t be as strong. Even though their are shadows, you can see hit eyes. Great action combined with emotion is the key to a great sports action photo.
Sports Feature StoryHonorable MentionAppeal-DemocratPlayin’ with the boysJimmy GrabenWell-written and engaging athlete feature.
Sports Feature StoryHonorable MentionLos Angeles Daily NewsVin Scully’s final callTom HoffarthVin Scully touched so many people’s lives for so many generations and like this writer says it doesn’t matter which chair you find yourself in you can always envision yourself at a Dodgers game with Scully’s voice at the helm. He will be missed and definitely this story evoked the most emotion out of the group.
Sports Feature Story1stFree LanceLife Renewed for Hughes-FudgeEmanuel Lee
Sports Feature Story1stGrunion GazetteLBUSD Sports Facilities: The Students’ StoryMike Guardabascio, JJ FiddlerVery well researched with extensive interviews. Really did a good job of giving the entire picture of the failing LBUSD athletic facilities.
Sports Feature Story1stLa Cañada Flintridge OutlookLCHS Grad Surveys NFL From Thoughtful DistanceMirjam SwansonWell-written and fun to read about a local kid who ended up making it big as an adult.
Sports Feature Story2ndLos Angeles TimesOrgan DonorMike Hiserman
Sports Feature StoryHonorable MentionLos Angeles TimesCorey SeagerAndy McCullough
Sports Feature Story2ndMoorpark AcornRancho deluxeEliav Appelbaum
Sports Feature StoryHonorable MentionPasadena OutlookClaire’s Baseball Evolution Spans a Half-CenturyNick Ostiller
Sports Feature StoryHonorable MentionPleasanton WeeklyCricket Anyone?Jeremy Walsh
Sports Feature Story2ndPorterville RecorderFootball is FamilyNayirah DosuGreat concept! The placement of this story on the front page was right on — using sports and the sacrifices athletes make as a microcosm of the town.
Sports Feature StoryHonorable MentionRecord SearchlightYoung at heartT.J. HolmesEngaging feature story.
Sports Feature StoryHonorable MentionRegister-PajaronianWatsonville native rises from life-changing ’mistake’Tony NunezInspirational story. Did a good job focusing on the background of the main person in the story.
Sports Feature Story1stSan Francisco ChronicleThe Najee ChroniclesRon Kroichick, Michael Macor
Sports Feature Story2ndSan Marino TribuneKindred SpiritsMitch LehmanThere was a lot of research for the statistics. It was a nice, feel good story.
Sports Feature StoryHonorable MentionSan Marino TribuneYou fight like a girl’ a Huge Compliment In Claire Garcia’s WorldMitch LehmanFemales don’t often get enough credit in the sports world, so it was neat to see so much ink dedicated to that. I thought it did a good job of keeping my attention.
Sports Feature Story2ndSanta Cruz SentinelCo-football champions SLV, Harbor to settle a score — 20 years after epic tieJim Seimas
Sports Feature Story1stSierra StarBadger girl makes history on baseball fieldMark Evan Smith
Sports Feature Story2ndSt. Helena StarUnbeatable, humble Schuh to be famousYousef Baig
Sports Feature StoryHonorable MentionThe ArkTiburon man, 65, overcomes heart, lung problems …Matthew Hose & Elliot Karlan
Sports Feature Story1stThe Bakersfield CalifornianBlazing his own trailZach EwingI am sure it’s hard to carve a name out for yourself when your family is equally as talented! I loved this story and how he makes his own way. Great job!
Sports Feature Story2ndThe Bakersfield CalifornianEliades: The World War II Air Force veteran is still an institution at North HighJeff EvansI loved how in depth this article was and how this one man was not only a hometown hero but a war hero and deserves to be recognized. Great story. Very well written.
Sports Feature Story1stThe Desert SunConcussion awarenessAndrew John
Sports Feature StoryHonorable MentionThe Fresno BeeAt 86, slowing down’s last thing on mind of Clovis sprinter Don CheekMarek WarszawskiA true testament to tenacity and well written story! I wish there was another 2nd place because this one was so good!!
Sports Feature StoryHonorable MentionThe Salinas CalifornianMuhammad Ali: to know him was to love himPete WevurskiGreat first-person account of a legendary athlete.
Sports Feature StoryHonorable MentionThe Salinas CalifornianPilot wraps art and athleticism into oneJeff MitchellGood insight into a profession that not a lot of people know about.
Sports Feature StoryHonorable MentionThe San Diego Union-Tribune2 runners from Africa linked by track, pastMark Zeigler
Sports Feature StoryHonorable MentionThe TribuneOlympic medalist, Atascadero resident Jan Johnson continues to be a giant in pole vaulting worldTravis Gibson
Sports Feature StoryHonorable MentionThe Weekly Calistogan’Frustrating’ year of footballYousef Baig
Sports Feature Story2ndThousand Oaks AcornHockey hero: Westlake girl inspiresEliav AppelbaumGood job giving us a sense of who Lola is both on and off the ice.
Sports Feature StoryHonorable MentionVentura County StarThe Rams Next DoorJoe Curley
Sports Feature Story1stVisalia Times-Delta & Tulare Advance-RegisterRichard Torrez Jr. featureMike HazelwoodThis is a very engaging story. The details are great and made me understand the boxer as a person and world-class athlete.
Sports Game Story2ndAntelope Valley PressParaclete makes full recoveryMerisa JensenGreat quotes. Well-written. Good stats.
Sports Game Story1stChico Enterprise-RecordGarrett captures titleNick WilsonLarge photos. Good lead. Strong quotes. Great writing. Holds reader’s interest
Sports Game StoryHonorable MentionElk Grove CitizenElk Grove Loses State Championship to Cajon, 55-36John HullWell written.
Sports Game StoryHonorable MentionLos Altos Town CrierPanthers outpace Priory:Pinewood uses speed to overwhelm visitorsPete Borello, Shirley Pefley
Sports Game Story1stLos Angeles TimesKobe Bryant’s Last GameMike BresnahanGood clean account, nice detail and color. Good flow, great insight to an amazing player’s remarkable last game.
Sports Game StoryHonorable MentionLos Angeles TimesSuper Bowl 50Sam FarmerGreat way to break news. Nice, touching stuff with Archie, cute quotes with mom.
Sports Game Story2ndMerced Sun-StarWarren overcomes nerves in Merced’s football win over GregoriShawn JansenGreat lede. Great combo of information and quotes right off the bat. I got flavor and all the nuts and bolts of the story in the first three graphs, then followed up with more solid quotes from players and coaches to help really tell the story.
Sports Game StoryHonorable MentionMoorpark AcornBack in the finalsEliav Appelbaum
Sports Game StoryHonorable MentionPetaluma Argus-CourierWild OT win by hobbled GauchosJohn Jackson
Sports Game Story1stPoway News ChieftainBroncos incredible run ...Michael Bower
Sports Game Story2ndSan Francisco ChronicleGiants eliminated after bullpen suffers a final meltdownHenry SchulmanGreat account, rich with detail and context that adds to the raw details of the play. This piece embraces the pain of defeat that had seemed like a victory. It grabs the reader from the beginning and doesn’t let go. The imagery is awesome.
Sports Game Story2ndSan Marino OutlookWick Brothers Finish High School as State ChampsOscar ArelizThis was one that practically wrote itself, and that is what made it sing, it never felt forced. And what made it even better is the two winning state titles during a year when brothers ruled at state. You could tell reporter did homework.
Sports Game Story2ndSt. Helena StarDefense keeps Saints in game in comeback winYousef BaigThe writer does a good job setting the theme of the piece (defense) early and following it throughout. Use of some solid quotes adds to the success of this one.
Sports Game StoryHonorable MentionSt. Helena StarSaints rout Drake with big playsYousef BaigA solid story spiced with some good quotes.
Sports Game Story1stThe Bakersfield CalifornianBakersfield High, Bakersfield Christian capture titlesZach EwingGreat — you had me at the lead. Great work with very good flow. It’s put the reader right in the action.
Sports Game Story2ndThe Camarillo AcornScorpions tell Walnut to take a seatEliav Appelbaum
Sports Game Story1stThe Davis EnterpriseGoing out with a bangBruce GallaudetGreat story from top to bottom. Tied in the all of the hoopla surrounding the game with the game itself. Nice blending and flow. Never felt clunky or disjointed.
Sports Game StoryHonorable MentionThe Fresno BeeClovis North’s Rhesa Foster golden in long jumpAndy BoogaardGood — brings the same level of respect, professionalism, and detail to a lesser-known sport as football and basketball get. Very crisp account. Solid section about Rhesa Foster, great background filler. Nice, short details on the rest of the meet.
Sports Game Story1stThe Gridley HeraldGridley Herald sports game story entriesDavid VantressThe stories were easy to read and flowed well. They had a nice balance of quotes, background and game details. Overall, a strong series of stories.
Sports Game StoryHonorable MentionThe Napa Valley RegisterHorn tosses no-hitter in final Big Game matchupMarty JamesGreat story. Stating the facts directly at the top so as not to make the reader wait too long for the good stuff, then getting into the details to keep the reader going. Well written.
Sports Game StoryHonorable MentionThe Napa Valley RegisterIndians break their Gold Country curse with victory in double-overtimeAndy WilcoxVery good to great detail and quotes from players and coaches in the meat of the story.
Sports Game StoryHonorable MentionThe Orange County RegisterRio Olympics: With all-around gold medal, Simone Biles vaults to the top as greatest female gymnastScott M. ReidVery colorfully written. Good quotes, nice scene setter. Good depth with nice diversity of quotes. What was missing, though, was more of Biles’ reactions to winning in the Olympics.
Sports Game Story2ndThe Press DemocratCardinal Newman championshipPhil BarberA good, deep and balanced story. It’s nice to see a significant quote from the losing team in a championship game.
Sports Game StoryHonorable MentionThe Press DemocratStephen Curry returnsPhil BarberGood. Cute lead, evocative writing, good context for the emotion of the game, great quotes and vignettes from the sideline.
Sports Game StoryHonorable MentionThe RecordHeartbreaker and Shakespearian finish for St. Mary’sThomas Lawrence, Kevin NeindorffHeartbreaker — great photos, lead and writing.
Sports Game StoryHonorable MentionThe TribuneSawyer May does his best Kirk Gibson impression in Arroyo Grande playoff winTravis GibsonGreat story. Great writing and good photos.
Sports Game StoryHonorable MentionThe Weekly CalistoganWildcats able to hold off PanthersYousef BaigNice job of capturing the excitement of the game. A couple of good quotes added a lot to the story.
Sports Game Story1stTimes-StandardComing up acesDanny PenzaGreat lede that made me smile envisioning a happily impending doom of a dogpile on the mound. Followed by great quotes from player and coach. Well done.
Sports Page or SectionHonorable MentionAntelope Valley PressAug. 19 and 20, 2016Sports Staff
Sports Page or Section2ndAppeal-DemocratOct. 1 and 2, 2016Staff
Sports Page or SectionHonorable MentionAuburn JournalMarch 29 and 30, 2016Megan Houchin, Ike Dodson
Sports Page or Section2ndChico Enterprise-RecordDec. 17 and 18, 2016Staff
Sports Page or SectionHonorable MentionDesert ReviewDec. 20 and 27, 2016Staff
Sports Page or Section1stGlendale News-PressPride on line as Hoover, Glendale clashStaff
Sports Page or Section2ndLa Cañada Valley SunLa Cañada Valley Sun Sports SectionStaffWell-edited section. Lively writing. Strong local focus. Obviously a very hard-working staff.
Sports Page or SectionHonorable MentionLedger DispatchLedger Sports Takes the Day!Staff
Sports Page or Section1stLos Angeles TimesLos Angeles Times StaffTop marks or near-top marks in every criteria, reflecting what has to be considered one of the best Sports sections in the nation. Quality of writing, breadth of coverage and section’s organization especially stand out.
Sports Page or Section1stMariposa GazetteAug. 25 and Sept. 1, 2016Matt JohnsonVery good job of covering local sports. Well-written stories and attractive page design.
Sports Page or SectionHonorable MentionPoway News ChieftainJune 9 and 16, 2016Michael Bower
Sports Page or Section1stRoseville Press TribuneNov. 4 and 11, 2016Steven WilsonStaff does an outstanding job of local-based sports coverage. Solid writing, event coverage and features.
Sports Page or SectionHonorable MentionSan Francisco ChronicleApril 13 and 14, 2016Staff
Sports Page or Section2ndSan Jose Mercury NewsMarch 10 and 11, 2016StaffExcellence in every aspect of this section. Only a slight notch below first place in what is a very competitive category.
Sports Page or SectionHonorable MentionSierra StarSept. 15, 2016Staff
Sports Page or Section2ndSt. Helena StarAug. 25 and Sept. 1, 2016Yousef BaigVery solid sports section. Good emphasis on local sports, and not top heavy on results. Some good writing.
Sports Page or Section1stThe Bakersfield Californian2016 Varsity PreviewStaffAmazing design, and almost all of it about Bakersfield. Lots of local bylines and credits. And 50+ pages on a Thursday is impressive.
Sports Page or SectionHonorable MentionThe Fresno BeeJune 3 and 4, 2016Staff
Sports Page or SectionHonorable MentionThe Napa Valley RegisterOct. 12 and 13, 2016Marty James, Andy Wilcox, Yousef Baig
Sports Page or Section2ndThe Press DemocratFeb. 7 and Feb. 8, 2016StaffNice mix between wire and local. The local stories are very well written and the design works. Can’t go wrong with Lowell Cohn. Nice job overall.
Sports Page or Section1stThe TribuneOct. 15, 2016Staff
Sports Page or SectionHonorable MentionVentura County StarDec. 15 and 16, 2016Marc Jenkins
Video JournalismHonorable MentionChico Enterprise-RecordThe Road to StateDan Reidel
Video Journalism2ndEast Bay TimesFirst day of school offers recent immigrants a fresh startStaffThis video does a good job of sharing a diverse set of personal stories and experiences. The producer does a good job of bringing all of these stories together into on coherent narrative.
Video Journalism1stGrunion GazetteDiscovered History: Jergins TunnelJesse Lopez
Video Journalism1stLompoc RecordAgnes of Harris GradeJason Anderson
Video Journalism1stLos Angeles TimesMothers Who Lose a Second Child to ViolenceCallaghan O’HareThe emotional impact of this video is undeniable. Needless to say the photo department is out of tissues now. While some of the cuts are a little too quick, the audio throws the viewer into an empathic position and straps them there. This is community journalism at its finest. Great work on building the trust to tell this story.
Video Journalism2ndRosamond NewsBialecki’s backyard riding trainJohn Joyce, Mike Crabtree, Gayle Joyce
Video JournalismHonorable MentionRosamond NewsFootball Camp Packs Marauder StadiumJohn Bogna, Gayle Joyce, Mike Crabtree
Video Journalism1stSan Francisco Business TimesOakland nonprofit Gameheads seeks to diversify tech through gamingEmma Marie ChiangThis video is very well put together, and it covers and important topic. The storytelling is clean, effective and engaging, while the video quality is excellent.
Video Journalism2ndSan Francisco ChronicleThe Regulars: Suu the Street SweeperErin BrethauerThe strongest technical video of all the entries along with an amazing subject matter. Kudos to the photographer’s skills and storytelling ability.
Video Journalism2ndSanta Maria TimesHour of CodeJason Anderson
Video JournalismHonorable MentionSanta Ynez Valley StarLetters from HomeRaiza Giorgi
Video Journalism2ndThe AcornSaving Chesebro MeadowJohn Loesing
Video JournalismHonorable MentionThe Beach ReporterPumpkin Race videoDaniella Segura
Video Journalism1stThe Desert SunQueens of the DesertZoe Meyers
Video Journalism1stThe Fresno BeeApartment family lives with roaches, mice, mold and neglect. Why will no one help?Silvia FloresThis video does an excellent job in giving voice to people who have not been heard. It quickly and effectively transports the viewer into their situation, sharing the feeling of living in an infested apartment with few other options.
Video JournalismHonorable MentionThe Modesto BeeSights and Sounds: A daylong tribute to Stanislaus County Deputy Dennis WallaceStaff
Video JournalismHonorable MentionThe Sacramento BeeNo Safe PlaceJessica Koscielniak
Video JournalismHonorable MentionThe Sacramento BeeRecovery on Cobb MountainPaul Kitagaki Jr.
Video Journalism1stThe SignalResidents move forward from Sand FireAustin Dave
Video Journalism2ndThe TribuneKnife makerJoe Johnston
Video JournalismHonorable MentionThe UnionPrep Football: Nevada Union tops Lincoln in overtimeLaura Mahaffy
Video Journalism2ndTracy PressWildfire live updatesMichael LangleyThis is a fabulous example of breaking news coverage in the digital age. The commentary is informative, giving the community exactly what it needs to know in the situation. The video is, as expected, Facebook Live quality, but in this situation the quality of the video was far less important than the content. It takes talent to record video, explain what you’re seeing, what you’ve learned from newsgathering and keep your composure while a fire threatens the area and you’re live. While the video is shaky at times, you hear traffic noise and the wind, all elements you try to avoid, it works here because it adds to the intensity of the situation and your audience will forgive you knowing it’s live. It’s the storytelling and effectiveness of this video that win out over technical quality.
Video Journalism1stTurlock JournalArrests follow Turlock Sikh Temple FightFrankie Tovar
Video Journalism2ndTurlock JournalThe Blitz SNH: Turlock vs MercedFrankie Tovar and Eddie Ruiz
Video JournalismHonorable MentionVentura County StarDuring university “dead week,” library comes aliveAnthony Plascencia
Video JournalismHonorable MentionVida en el ValleGol! Ecstatic play-by-play soccer announcers with Fresno Fuego Fútbol ClubDan Casarez
Writing1stAppeal-DemocratLolaSteve MillerIt was a touching recount of a dog’s life without being overly sentimental. I especially liked how the writing mirrored the dogs life, from being energetic at the start, like a puppy, to a slowed down pace at the end, like the end of the dog’s life.
Writing2ndDel Norte TriplicatePlugged in to new technologyJessica CejnarGreat quotes, interesting story made better by the writing.
WritingHonorable MentionHalf Moon Bay ReviewRome wasn’t built in a dayClay LambertThis is a wonderful read, emotional but not overly sentimental. Writing about something so close is a hard line to walk, but it’s done here with grace.
WritingHonorable MentionIdyllwild Town CrierDrama in the descentMarshall SmithSolid writing, great detail, awesome reporting.
WritingHonorable MentionLos Altos Town CrierCircle of life: Tanzanian safari offers animal & cultural encountersMegan V. Winslow
Writing1stLos Angeles TimesFramedChristopher GoffardAn amazing story largely due to the way it is told. So well written. Great job of introducing the main characters and enticing the reader to care what happens in this sordid and shocking story. The piece is presented in a well-organized format. The story surprises as it unfolds.
Writing2ndMarin Independent JournalTrailer residents say goodbye to paradisePaul LiberatoreNice read on an era slipping away — for better or worse — on the California Coast. Fluid show-not-tell, if not poetic, writing.
Writing2ndMetro Silicon ValleyStuck LoversJennifer WadsworthInteresting issue told well through the experiences of those who have struggled.
Writing2ndMonterey HeraldWhen a neighbor can’t be trustedClaudia Melendez SalinasThe writer did a great job of intermixing the personal story with details of the case and statistics on child abuse. Very impressive research. Story had a good flow.
Writing1stNorth Bay BohemianCondemned Men TalkingStaffWell written with such descriptive words one can hear and see the prison doors opening and slamming shut.
Writing2ndPalisades NewsGermans United a NeighborhoodLaurel BusbyInteresting, heart-warming story, on many levels. Very good read.
WritingHonorable MentionRegister-PajaronianA troubled life, rememberedTodd GuildGreat idea clearly described in opening. A great ending
Writing1stSacramento News & ReviewBros gone wildDave KempaLively writing, well constructed. This story drew me in; I wanted to know more about this sub-culture. Well done!
WritingHonorable MentionSan Francisco ChronicleLast Men Standing: The Forgotten Survivors of AIDSErin AlldayIn category full of compelling, engaging entries, the Last Men Standing report deserves its place among those at the top. Wonderfully written words pull us into the story, helping us to know and care about these men. Great use of graphics, photography and video in this stellar example of storytelling. Congratulations on your work!
Writing2ndSan Francisco ExaminerMeasuring the half-life of Sept. 11Michael HowertonThis captures the sadness, helplessness and anxiety that followed 9/11. This is a poignant piece that offers a glimpse beyond the scenes as a reporter struggles to make sense of such senselessness. Nice detail.
WritingHonorable MentionSan Gabriel Valley TribuneHow a stolen necklace led to deadly firebombingStephanie K. BaerGood presentation of facts in the case and use of quotes.
WritingHonorable MentionSan Jose Mercury NewsThe last hours of the Ghost ShipJulia Prodis Sulek and Matthias GafniCongratulations to the reporters on this piece. The writing is clearly a top contender in this category, with details that flesh out the human aspect ... and wonderful use of videos and social media posts to bring the story home. Stellar storytelling of this horrific tale.
WritingHonorable MentionSanta Monica Daily PressPushing his cluckJeff GoodmanGreat use of repetition in the opening paragraphs. Overall it had a wonderful flow and showed that the story wasn’t just about a unique car, but rather what it means to this one person. Made me smile.
Writing1stThe ArkOn tour of Richardson Bay anchorage …Gretchen LangVery, very good. Great lede, great kicker, with solid info throughout. Very well executed.
Writing2ndThe ArkTorn-out memorial benchDeirdre McCrohanGreat detail and a nuanced discussion that honored all involved. A story completely and clearly told.
Writing1stThe Bakersfield CalifornianThe poet of the common manJennifer Self and Robert PriceAlthough written as a breaking-news obituary, this piece is packed with compelling voices and color on a man who lived an incredibly colorful life. This is a terrific read.
WritingHonorable MentionThe Camarillo AcornHolocaust survivor shares harrowing pastHector Gonzalez
WritingHonorable MentionThe Downey PatriotHow I Went From Journalist to RealtorEric PierceWell written, informative and personal.
WritingHonorable MentionThe Fresno BeeAt age 85, this legendary rock climber still pushes the edge of adventureCarmen George
WritingHonorable MentionThe Fresno BeeWho shot Day Day?Marek Warszawski
WritingHonorable MentionThe Napa Valley RegisterTwo years after Napa earthquake, First Presbyterian Church celebrates homecomingHoward YuneThe writer has an excellent use of words and pacing. The details included really gave the story a sense of place and the overall atmosphere of the church.
Writing1stThe RecordCause for HOPEAlex BreitlerExcellent reporting, with multiple sources, use of factual and sensory details and turns of phrase to invite the reader in and serve up a full-course feast. I feel as if I now, too, have been to Mountain Ranch and experienced the fire and ensuing renaissance, and all the ups and downs in between.
Writing2ndThe Sacramento BeeRecovery on Cobb MountainCynthia HubertPowerful personal perspectives bring the reader into the real-life horrors in the aftermath of the immediate danger, to the point one can imagine the personal pain in reading the social media post “I’m so sorry. They just checked your place. It’s gone.” Wonderful writing and storytelling through both the words and multimedia aspects of the story package. Congratulations!
Writing1stThe Sonoma Index-TribuneLeaf Blowers: And the Rest Is Silence / Changing the Culture of RapeJason WalshHilarious writing that celebrates the best of local news in leafblowers. Clear standout winner.
WritingHonorable MentionThe Sonoma Index-TribuneFarewell to Linus / Daughters of the RevolutionJason WalshLinus piece was a plaintive, thoughtful ode to an earlier era of newspapers.
WritingHonorable MentionThousand Oaks AcornBetrayal threatens couple’s homeBecca Whitnall
WritingHonorable MentionVentura County StarArmy Airborne vets help protect Ojai Music Festival from vandalsTom KiskenGreat premise for a fresh way of telling a story about veterans. Good anecdotes, too.
Posted in General