LA Press Club Award Winners Announced

The LA Press Club held its annual awards gala last night, where they announced the winners of their annual journalism awards in 80-some-odd categories. LA Weekly's Patrick Range McDonald was named "print journalist of the year," while LA Times Pulitzer Prize winners Ruben Vives and Jeff Gottlieb earned the Press Club's first public service award." This Fishie was up for a couple awards and somehow managed to finish second place to Drew Carey... in a journalism competition... sigh. We kid the Carey. Full list of winners after the jump: A. JOURNALISTS OF THE YEAR A1. PRINT (Over 50,000 circulations) Patrick Range McDonald, LA Weekly Comments: "Range" is an appropriate middle name. What incredibly detailed reporting on a variety of complicated topics. What an ability to make us feel as if we know the players. What skill in explaining messy situations. The very essence of solid journalism. 2nd place: David Evans, Bloomberg Markets, "Duping the Families of Fallen Soldiers" HM: Mariel Garza, Los Angeles Daily News Editorials A2. PRINT (Under 50,000 circulation) Radley Balko, Reason Magazine Comment: ―Radley Balko is one of those throw-back journalists that understands the power of groundbreaking reporting and how to make a significant impact through his work. Time and time again, his stories cause readers to stop, think, and most significantly, take action. Congratulations!‖ 2nd Place: Dan Evans, Glendale News-Press HM: Ryan Vaillancourt, Los Angeles Downtown News A3. TELEVISION JOURNALIST Ana Garcia and Fred Mamoun, KNBC-TV Garcia and Mamoun shoot, write and edit compelling stories. One of their strengths as a team is the obvious respect for their subjects, and the ability through contacts in the community to land exclusive interviews and opportunities. They are strong storytellers and the pieces move! 2nd Place: Antonio Valverde, Univision Valverde has a wide range as a journalist. He is able to work with various segments of the community to tell compelling stories. He has political acumen and can accurately and fairly tell stories, while also reaching out to the disenfranchised to share their stories of life in L.A. A4. RADIO JOURNALIST Susan Valot, KPCC Comments: Well-rounded reports with authoritative, informed tone. Great use of sound. Valot‘s work is some of the best we‘ve heard. 2nd Place: Brian Watt: KPCC HM: Kitty Felde: KPCC A5. ONLINE JOURNALIST Daniel Heimpel, FosteringMediaConnections.org 2nd Place: Chris Hedges, Truthdig.com HM: Robert Scheer, Truthdig.com A6. SPORTS JOURNALIST N/A A7. ENTERTAINMENT JOURNALIST Kim Masters, KCRW-FM Radio Comments: Nice voice in both senses of the word, along with substantive content. Covering a story about outed CIA agent Valerie Plame, she tracked down Plame to comment on her portrayal, rather than just talking to the actress. She also gave a lot of information on entertainment agents that broadened the picture the public was likely to have of that occupation. 2nd Place: Tara Wallis-Finestone, NBC LA HM: George Pennacchio, KABC-TV A8. PHOTO JOURNALIST Rick Loomis, Los Angeles Times A9. DESIGNER N/A B. DAILY/WEEKLY NEWSPAPERS Over 50,000 circulations – including news bureaus and correspondents B1. HARD NEWS Tracy Manzer and Sarah Peters, Long Beach Press-Telegram, "Heroes foil bank heist" Comments: The writing was appropriately-paced for the category and the story content. I enjoyed the writers' use of sensory details and factual information, presented with a slightly humorous/sarcastic tone that made this piece fun to read. B2. NEWS FEATURE Patrick Range McDonald, LA Weekly, ―The Parent Trigger‖. Comments: Documents a groundswell of democracy while explaining a new law through a real-world prism. Powerful. Incredibly well-sourced and informative, yet provides a human touch. The story of poor minorities trying to make a change documented how the masses can move the establishment. Inspiring to others, this story shows what newspaper do like no other. Bravo. 2nd Place: Thomas Curven, Los Angeles Times, ―Walking Away from Grief‖ HM: Kristopher Hanson, Long Beach Press-Telegram, ―Dangers Close to Home‖ B3. PERSONALITY PROFILE Steve Friess, LA Weekly, ―A Tragic Love Story‖ 2nd Place: Charlotte Hsu, LA Weekly, ―Forever Scared — The Story of Herman Atkins‖ HM: Karen Robes Meeks, Long Beach Press-Telegram, ―Murchison: A Portrait of a Long Beach Lobbyist‖ B4. INVESTIGATIVE/SERIES David Evans, Bloomberg News, "Fallen Soldiers' Families Denied Cash Payout as Insurers Profit" Comments: These articles are the soul of great investigative journalism, uncovering a shocking system whereby the families of slain soldiers are tricked about benefits, and where shameless insurance companies reap big profits at the expense of those families. Best of all, it led to immediate Congressional investigations and action. 2nd place: Beth Barrett, LA Weekly, "The Dance of the Lemons" HM: Monica Alonzo and Simone Wilson, LA Weekly, "Culture of Cruelty" B5. BUSINESS Alana Semuels, Los Angeles Times, "California unfriendly to business? Figures say no" Comments: This is an authoritative and well-documented piece that refutes the common wisdom of California's tax structure being unfriendly to business. 2nd place: Beth Barrett, LA Weekly, "Barry Minkow 2.0" HM: Donna Howell, Investor's Business Daily, "Electric cars have lots of sizzle, but drivers risk sticker shock" B6. *COMMENTARY Los Angeles Daily News Editorial Pages Comments: They pull no punches at this newspaper, with front-page challenges to the mayor to get engaged again in tackling the problems facing the City of Angels. No "on the one hand, on the other hand" bland tomes on civic business in this newspaper. The Daily News grabs the reader (and the mayor) around the neck and says "look at this, dammit," not just with passionate, fiery prose, but solid reporting, too, and a step-by-step checklists for readers (and city officials) on how to solve the pressing issues of the city. 2nd Place: Thomas Elias, California Focus syndicated columns Comments: Thomas Elias writes with such authority, you just know he's the kind of government reporter who has seen it all. But he's never succumbed to the cynicism that prevents lucid reporting of state government issues and the people who make decisions. In this entry, Elias deftly debunks one of most popular budget-balancing schemes going these days: the sale of state buildings. Then he's on to who's really getting hurt by a half-billion dollar whack at California's state budget, and then got behind the rhetoric of Republican gubernatorial candidate Meg Whitman and concluded, "it's the same old line. HM: Amy Alkon, The Advice Goddess, Syndicated Columnist Comments: It's an unusual entry for a commentary category. But I liked Amy Alkon's direct, breezy style that was devoid of political correctness and the usual advice-column drivel. Her advice column is a really fun read, with great turns of phrase, which, when you think about, is the basis of good commentary whether the writer is talking about city budgets or personal relationships. Well done. B7. *COLUMNIST One person‘s viewpoint on any subject. James Rainey, Los Angeles Times - "On The Media" Comments: Columns are extremely well researched with numerous sources. Issue is explained in detail in a way that can be easily followed, leading the reader to understand and most likely agree with columnist's opinion and observations. Columnist knows his subject well from numerous sides; this is evident in his convincing and well-supported stance and indignation at "pay-to-play" TV journalism. A bonus is that the columns sparked major changes, forcing out one news executive and triggering a complaint to the FCC. 2nd Place: Patricia Bunin, Pasadena Star News - "Senior Moments" HM: Tim Grobaty, Press-Telegram - "What's Hot" on nightmare neighbors B8.* ENTERTAINMENT REVIEWS/CRITICISM/COLUMN Gustavo Turner, LA Weekly, ―Roger & Me: Street Art in the Global Village, Listening to Yoko, The Cool Maestro‖ Comments: Gustavo Turner‘s delightful and humor-laced prose draws us into the tale of a hypocritical megastar‘s PR machine, asks us to rethink Yoko Ono and introduces us to a forgotten funk artist — all made fascinating and real by Gustavo Turner‘s knowledge and panache. 2nd Place: Rob Lowman, Los Angeles Daily News, ―Bening, Magic Man, Chloe et al‖ HM: Steven Leigh Morris, LA Weekly, ‗theater reviews‘ B9. ENTERTAINMENT NEWS OR FEATURE B9 Matthew Garrahan, Financial Times, ―Who Killed James Bond?‖ Comment: Concise writing and thorough research make for a well-crafted look at the heyday and problematic present day of a legendary Hollywood studio. 2nd Place: Matt Coker, OC Weekly, ―Douchebag does Sundance‖ HM: Karina Longworth, LA Weekly, ―Sundance‘s Rebel Yell‖ B10. SPORTS Tie for First Place Lance Pugmire, Los Angeles Times, ―Anthony Davis: Dame fortune‖ Gendy Alimurung, LA Weekly, ―Manny Pacquiao‖ Comments: Both were superb profiles of sports champions, one who never capitalized on his college stardom and the other a current champion looking for a second career. Anthony Davis is almost the American dream in reverse: Not only could he have been a contender, but he was a contender, in this case for the Heisman Trophy, who didn‘t have the pro sports career he fully expected afterward. A fellow Trojan cautions in the article that the rest of the world may not fully share the sky-high esteem USC‘s fans have had for Davis and many others. The article did a fine job of laying out Davis‘s many business ventures, none of them terribly successful, over the years. Manny Pacquiao, who might want to read the Davis article as a cautionary tale, is a boxer who seemingly has it all, and is also taking up a really brutal sport – politics – in his native Philippines. The article gives us some clues into just what makes Pacquiao so fierce in the ring that even champions think twice about fighting him. The multiple sources, depth of detail and colorful language made the article a joy to read. HM: Diane Pucin, Los Angeles Times, ―Cal Poly Crash – Tragedy Couldn‘t kill team spirit‖ B11. HEADLINE Steve Hensch, Los Angeles Times, ―336 Voters Opened Bell‘s Wallet‖ Comments: The headline so succinctly captures the main elements of the story that a reader in a hurry might already have all they need. But it also creates an air of mystery – how could this possibly happen – that compels you to read the story anyway. 2nd Place: Donna Howell, Investor‘s Business Daily, ―Hangar Homes May Not Fly‖ HM: James Laurin, San Diego Union-Tribune, ―Big Right, Nothing Left for Mosley‖ B12. *DESIGN Kelly Lewis, OC Weekly, ―Hot Licks‖ Comments: An unexpected and resourceful design for a story about an emerging trend. The repeated use of triptychs of large photo – small photo – callout gives the design a thematic unity. The Old West imagery, though certainly done before, seems fresh in this context. Antique hanging caps were a nice touch. 2nd Place: Darrick Rainey, LA Weekly, ―Educating Maria‖ HM: Darrick Rainy, LA Weekly, ―Manny Pacquiao – the complete picture‖ C. DAILY/WEEKLY NEWSPAPERS Under 50,000 circulations C1. HARD NEWS Marlize van Romburgh, Stephen Nellis, Henry Dubroff, Tony Biasotti, : Pacific Coast Business Times, ―Pacific Capital‘s Ford Infusion‖ Comments: A very detailed financial transaction is laid out both simply and in all its glory, aided by one of the world‘s best-labeled graphs right on Page One. There‘s a fine companion profile of the main mover and shaker behind the deal. C2. NEWS FEATURE Theresa Marie Moreau, The Remnant, ―They Died in China‖ Comment: ―I was drawn into this in-depth series of stories from the opening sentence and couldn‘t put it down until I had read every word of every story. That, to me, represents quality writing and reporting, which are the hallmarks of exceptional feature writing.‖ 2nd Place: Alexa Hyland, Los Angeles Business Journal, ―Awaiting‖ HM: Carl Kozlowski, Pasadena Weekly, ―Ridin‘ with Dr. Feelgood‖ C3. PERSONALITY PROFILE Daniel Miller, Los Angeles Business Journal, ―Cornering Downtown‖ Comments: Daniel Miller‘s story on real estate developer Barry Shy is cunningly insightful, delving into the combatative Shy‘s many battles. 2nd Place: Ryan Vaillancourt, Los Angeles Downtown News, ―The Survivor‖ HM: Karmel Melamed, Jewish Journal of Greater Los Angeles, ―Remembering Ebi: Why we fled Iran‖ C4. INVESTIGATIVE/SERIES Richard Clough, Los Angeles Business Journal, ―First Fed‘s Fault Lines‖ Comment: ―This is a great example of top-notch investigative journalism at its best. The writer‘s use of FOIA requests to get at the real story – as well as his constant digging – gave readers a fresh look at the seemingly unintended consequence of the country‘s financial meltdown. What‘s more, this is clearly the pacesetter of a very strong category of nominees.‖ 2nd Place: Michael Collins, Pasadena Weekly, ―Monkeys‖ 3rd Place: Ryan Vaillancourt, Los Angeles Downtown News, ―The Curious Case of Brian Alexik‖ C5. BUSINESS Marlize van Romburgh, Pacific Coast Business Times, ―Foreclosure Fiasco‘s Ground Zero: Ventura County offices churned out paperwork― Comments: Thoroughness of reporting and stylish writing, happily making their journalistic home where Countrywide Financial was headquartered, light up this account of the inside workings of the subprime mortgage crisis. Quotes from insiders paint quite the picture of the road gone down before the crash that shouldn‘t have surprised anyone – but did. 2nd Place: Anna Scott, LA Downtown News, ― To Have and to Hold, and Hold and Hold and Hold and Hold‖ HM: Richard Clough, LA Business Journal, ―LA Corporate Credit Union Faces Historic Damages‖ C6. *COMMENTARY Amy Alkon, Creators Syndicate, 'The Advice Goddess'" Comments: Funny, edgy, relevant and thoroughly engaging. Amy's VOICE resonates with its readers and the visual and conversation style makes her writing jump off the page! 2nd Place: Burbank Leader, "Burbank Leader Editorials" HM: Thomas Elias, "Thomas Elias California Focus Syndicated Column" C7.* COLUMNIST Charles Crumpley, Los Angeles Business Journal, ―Drawing a Line at City Hall‖ Comment: Charles Crumpley didn‘t need many words to convey a witty – but factual – jab at how the city of Los Angeles‘ financial crisis will negatively impact an already-beleaguered business permits process. I laughed out loud. Well done!‖ 2nd Place: Dan Evans, Burbank Leader, ―Columns – Dan Evans‖ HM: Amy Alkon, Syndicated columnist, ―The Advice Goddess‖ C8. *ENTERTAINMENT REVIEWS/CRITICISM/COLUMN N/A C9. ENTERTAINMENT NEWS OR FEATURE Joe Piasecki, Pasadena Weekly, "The Story Behind the Stories'" Comments: A fresh approach to an interesting topic, which is an important form of literary publication and a valuable outlet for writers. 2nd Place: Naomi Pfefferman, Jewish Journal of Greater Los Angeles, "Kevin Spacey gets in touch with his inner Jew in 'Casino Jack'"" HM: Joe Piasecki, Pasadena Weekly, "Taking Back 'Beautiful'" C10. SPORTS Joel Russell, Los Angeles Business Journal, ―Staying on a roll - Rob Dyrdek‖ Comments: There‘s much the general public doesn‘t know about professional skateboarding – notably that even the best skateboarders can‘t make a living from the prize money and must seek endorsement deals. That and many other facts about the sport and one of its champions are brought out in this entertaining story. 2nd Place: Jay Berman, Los Angeles Downtown News, ―Keeping His Lens on the Dodgers‖ C11. HEADLINE Tom Hicks, Los Angeles Business Journal, ―Cool With It‖ Comments: Sixties lingo meets global warming in this headline for a story about businesses who see no reason to oppose California climate change laws – despite organized business groups doing so vigorously. 2nd Place: University Times Staff, Cal State L.A., ―Othello Slays Desdemona‖ HM: Jon Regardie, Los Angeles Downtown News, ―Bloodbath and Beyond‖ C12. *DESIGN Brian Allison, Los Angeles Downtown News, ―Don‘t Miss The Summer ― Comments: Vibrant, imaginative, compelling look at events for summer planning. Lots of summery colors and graphics. It makes out-of-towners wish they‘d been in Los Angeles last summer rather than missing all that! There was added nostalgia, given recent events, at seeing Manny Ramirez again as the very symbol of the Dodgers. 2nd Place: Daniel Kacvinski, The Jewish Journal , ―Why Jews Should Care About Prop 19‖ HM: Robert Laudry, Los Angeles Business Journal, ―Restacking the Coin – L.A.‘s Wealthiest Angelenos‖ D. ART/PHOTOGRAPHY Print - Newspaper/magazine/wire service/online D1. NEWS PHOTO Rick Loomis, Los Angeles Times, ―Haiti‘s Pain‖ Comment: ―Judges struggled with the top five. Compelling images from the Haiti disaster. The winning photo made a real connection with the viewer.‖ 2nd Place: Carolyn Cole, Los Angeles Times, ―Altercation‖ HM: Rick Loomis, Los Angeles Times, ―Survivors‖ D2. FEATURE PHOTO Barbara Davidson, Los Angeles Times, ―Victims of Gang Violence‖ Comment: ―Hands down, best image in the entire contest. The innocence of this victim was captured with great dignity. The image was a capstone of a remarkable photo essay.‖ 2nd Place: Rick Loomis, Los Angeles Times, ―The Ultimate Sacrifice‖ HM: Michael Owen Baker, Los Angeles Daily News, Sheep Riding D3. SPORTS PHOTO Diandra Jay, Long Beach Press-Telegram, ―Celebration‖ Comment: A vivid and wonderfully alive reaction picture from a game. 2nd Place: Brittany Murray, Press-Telegram, ―I got it,‖ HM: John McCoy, Los Angeles Daily News, Lakers Photo D4. ENTERTAINMENT PHOTO Liz O. Baylen, Los Angeles Times, ―Soul Man‖ Comment: ―All judges were instantly drawn to the Clint Eastwood portrait for the quality of the light and subtle emotion.‖ 2nd Place: Liz O. Baylen, Los Angeles Times, ―Bell of the Ball‖ HM: Liz O. Baylen, Los Angeles Times, ―Something Different Shining Through‖ D5. EDITORIAL CARTOON Lalo Alcaraz, Los Angeles Times, ―Universal Uclick‖ Comment: ―Lalo Alcaraz's cartoons are unique in their style and subject matter. His graphic images are succinct and get right to the point.‖ 2nd Place: Patrick O'Connor, LA Weekly HM: Doug Davis, Los Angeles Downtown News D6. PHOTO ESSAY (single topic Barbara Davidson, Los Angeles Times, ―Victims of Gang Violence‖ Comment: This was far and away the strongest category of the contest. Judges struggled with their decision. The breadth of the content in this category was refreshing! Photographer‘s efforts were passionate in telling the important story about the impact of gang violence.‖ 2nd Place: Genaro Molina, Los Angeles Times, ―Project 50‖ HM: Carolyn Cole, Los Angeles Times, ―Disaster in the Gulf‖ E. TELEVISION E1. *ANCHOR N/A E2. BREAKING NEWS Mitch Waldow, KTTV, ―Fatal Bus Crash‖ Comment: Excellent example of breaking news coverage, when the reporter must delve into the worst possible story: the death of others. Waldow does it with great professionalism. E3. FEATURE Chuck Henny, Tara Wallis, Jose Hernandez, Fernando Torres, KNBC, ―Rock and Roll Treasure‖. Comments: This piece was engaging, entertaining, and a fascinating slice of history to watch. It was well-edited and unfolded at the perfect pace. We all want to meet her now and see her pictures! What a great look back at the heyday of rock and roll. 2nd Place: Bret Marcus, Justine Schmidt, Rick Wilkinson, Steve Lopez and Alberto Arce, KCET-TV, ―Putting on Ayers‖. Comments: This musical piece was a fascinating look at a man who has truly turned his life around. The story focused on Ayers, not the ―superstars‖ who wanted to work with him, and the judges appreciated that focus. A well edited piece, it focused not only on the man‘s life, but on the music he makes. HM: Fred Mamoun, Ana Garcia, Kevin Nious, Jose Hernandez, Lindsey Jackson , KNBC-TV, ―Mercury in Seafood Series‖. Comments: An interesting series looking at a problem especially pervasive in health-conscious Southern California, the taint of mercury in our seafood. Good demonstration of the breadth of the problem and how it impacts health. E4. INVESTIGATIVE Bret Marcus, Justine Schmidt, Karen Foshay, Vince Gonzales, Lata Pandya, Alberto Arce, KCET, ―Protected or Neglected‖ Comments: Really interesting stories focusing on a big problem in the region: OSHA not keeping workers safe. This investigation had all the elements: good pacing, foreshadowing, well-told stories, victims, a ―bad guy,‖ confrontation, excellent editing and storytelling. 2nd Place: Frank Snepp, Colleen Williams, Yvonne Beltzer , KNBC, ―TSA Investigation: Is it Safe to Fly?‖ Comments: This story was a fascinating look at ―the security behind the security.‖ What really happens when the safety guys take over? Are you safe? Is your stuff? Why isn‘t there better oversight? HM: Chris Blatchford, KTTV-Fox 11, ―Hawthorne Corruption‖ Comments: What happens when the police chief tries to cover up a snafu at a strip club? A good investigative story. This story uncovered all the dirt under the rocks regarding the incident with the elected officials and the ensuing attempts to make it go away. Good investigative work. E5. SPORTS Fox Sports West / Prime Ticket Team, ―Bryshon Nellum‘s Road to Recovery‖ Comments: Well-told story about an athlete who was on his way to the top, but then an injury changed everything. Now he‘s on his way back. Well-told with great sports video, emotion, well-edited. 2nd Place: Fred Mamoun, Ana Garcia, Kevin Nious, Lindsey Jackson, KNBC, ―Winter Olympic Games Stories‖ Comments: Great compilation of well-told, well-edited stories about the various local stars of the 2010 Winter Olympics and how they all got to the top. HM: Fox Sports West / Prime Ticket Team, ―Nickell Robey‘s Journey To USC‖ Comments: Another emotional, well-told story about a young man who had his athletic career halted by a family tragedy that rocked his world. The journalists shared his story, the emotion and his own personal struggle to make it, as well as the school‘s dedication to helping this young athlete. E6. ENTERTAINMENT NEWS OR FEATURE Bret Marcus, Justine Schmidt, Rick Wilkinson, Judy Muller, Michael Bloecher and Anne Lilburn, KCET-TV, ―Socal Connected; Celluloid Ceiling‖ Comments: Kathyrn Bigelow may have just won the Oscar for Best Director, but she‘s one of only a few female directors even nominated up until now. Judy Muller and her team look at accomplished women directors still needing to fight to get any directing work at all in Hollywood. Many movie fans might have missed that the Twilight films are directed by a woman, who‘s interviewed. Probably few in the country realize, though, that Martha Cooldige was elected by her fellow directors to head the Directors Guild of America – but still had trouble getting films to direct. There‘s also a good look at what makes a good director, and some sadly humorous quotes about female directors being ―too emotional‖ for many producers when quite a few prominent male directors are famously unhinged on the set. 2nd Place: George Pennacchio and Cheryl Diano, KABC-TV, ―Best Worst Movie‖ HM: Bret Marcus, Justine Schmidt, Rick Wilkinson, David Lazarus, Alberto Arce, and Anne Lilburn, ―Runaway Production‖ E7. TALK/PUBLIC AFFAIRS SoCal Connected, KCET, ―The Price of Power/Track To The Future/My DWP Bill‖ Comments: All of the stories were well done, informative and the entire show moved very well. 'Track to the Future' was our favorite story and we loved how well-researched the 'My DWP Bill' story was. 2nd Place: SoCal Connected, KCET, ―Sacramento Dreamin/Climate Recall/Between The Line‖ HM: Jannelle So, KSCITV-LA 18, ―Surviving human trafficking, sexual assault, death conviction‖ E8. DOCUMENTARIES Fox Sports West/Prime Ticket, ―Life And Times Of John Wooden‖ Comments: Loved the use of old interviews and photos to tell such an epic story about an amazing life. The pacing was exceptional. John Wooden would be proud. 2nd Place: News Organization: Rebecca Neito, Robert Kovacik, Thomas Bravo, Scott Meadows, Lindsey Jackson et al, KNBC, ―Untold Stories Of Haiti‖ HM: SoCal Connected, KCET, ―Protected or Neglected‖ F. RADIO F1. *ANCHOR Jim Rondeau, KCLU Comments: A conversational yet authoritative newscast. Well-constructed and nicely delivered, holding the listener's interest. 2nd Place: Steve Jullian: KPCC HM: Alex Cohen: KPCC F2. BREAKING NEWS KNX, So Cal Storms Comments: This is what team coverage during breaking news events is all about. Reporters did an excellent job of setting the scene. Anchors were great too. 2nd Place: KCLU: Simi Valley Lab Explosion HM: KCRW: Which Way LA? BREAKING NEWS OR FEATURE SHORT FORM John Baird, KNX, SoCal Stormin’ Comment: A very interesting and informative piece with a playful twist. Nice use of NATS and balance between news and sports. 2nd Place: Steve Gregory, KFI, The KOGI BBQ Experience. HM: Brian Watt, KPCC, ―Tesla-Toyota‖ F4. FEATURE Madeleine Brand/Kristen Muller, KPCC, ―LA River ― Comments: A powerful combination of local history, personal tragedy and public service. Deeply moving narrative. 2nd Place: Nelson Aguilar and Cason Smith, KSAK, ―Big League/College Dreams‖ HM: Brian Watt, KPCC, ―Sleeper Memorial‖ F5. INVESTIGATIVE Jason Nathanson, KNX, ―Up In Smoke‖ Comments: Well-researched, entertaining and informative. Nice work. 2nd Place: KPCC, ―Prison Health Series‖ HM: KNX, ―LAX: No Way Out‖ F6. ENTERTAINMENT REPORTING/*CRITICISM Larry Mantle, KPCC, ―Oliver Stone‖ Comments: This crackling interview went beyond normal chit chat. Mantle established a good rapport with Stone and pushed him with tough questions. 2nd Place: Kim Masters, KCRW, ―The Business‖ HM: Steve Cuevas, KPCC, ―Surf King‖ F7. SPORTS Jon Baird, KNX, ―Foul Ball Freak-Out ― Comments: Informative report on an issue that a lot of fans don‘t think about. 2nd Place: Lance Orozco/Jim Rondeau, KCLU, ―It‘s More Than A Game‖ HM: Susan Valot, KPCC, ―Curling‖ F8. USE OF SOUND Kevin Ferguson, KPCC, ―Patch Work‖ Comments: Great use of audio in a narrative way, demonstrating notes and sounds of all the instruments. Great voicing too. 2nd Place: "Claudia Amezcua/Cason Smith, KSAK, Renaissance Faire Opening" HM: Kenny Goldberg, KPBS, ―Awake Brain Surgery‖ F9. TALK/PUBLIC AFFAIRS Airtalk With Larry Mantle, KPCC, ―Airtalk: Live from Phoenix‖ Comments: A professional, well-produced and fast-paced presentation. This show gave all sides of the issue. 2nd Place: The Patt Morrison Show, KPCC, ―St. John‘s‖ HM: The Madeleine Brand Show, KPCC, ―The Madeleine Brand Show‖ F10. DOCUMENTARIES Andrew Mollenbeck, Andy Ludlum, Bill Nesbitt, KNX, ―Haiti: Hope in the Ruins‖ Comments: Excellent documentary. A lot of hard work went into this special. Great narrative. 2nd Place: John North, KCLU, ―K-12 Education in Crisis‖ HM: Cason Smith and Nelson Aguilar, KSAK, ―Big League/College Dreams‖ G. MAGAZINES G1. NEWS/INVESTIGATIVE David Evans, Bloomberg Markets magazine, ―Duping the Families of Fallen Soldiers‖ Comment: ―David Evans dug deep to uncover this seemingly unbelievable story about how more than 130 life insurance companies were profiting from death benefits owed to the families of deceased service members…and then he dug some more. This is hard-hitting investigative journalism the way it‘s supposed to be done!‖ 2nd Place: Po Bronson & Ashley Merryman, Newsweek, ―The Creativity Crisis‖ HM: Ronald Grover, Tom Lowry and Michael White, Bloomberg Businessweek, ―King of the World (Again)‖ G2. FEATURE/COMMENTARY David Schneider, Slake: Los Angeles, ―Ballad of the Trunk Monkey‖ Comment: ―I was drawn into this unconventional piece from the first sentence and then carried along like a track car on a macabre roller coaster. The story was fun, engaging, entertaining and, most important, exceptionally well-written. It was so good I re-read it several times.‖ 2nd Place: Richard Siklos, Business Week Magazine, ―Extreme Moneyball‖ HM: Peter Suderman, Reason, ―The Gatekeeper – How a little bureaucratic office became the biggest impediment to Barack Obama‘s health care plans‖ G3. PERSONALITY PROFILE Steve Oney, Playboy Magazine, ―Hollywood Fixer‖ Comment: Engaging and enlightening, a succinctly written profile that reveals an interesting man characterized by his atypical career. 2nd Place: Peter Suderman, Reason Magazine, ―Paul Ryan: Radical or Sellout?‖ HM: Monica Rizzo and Alexis Chiu, People Magazine, ―Jennifer Grey Bounces Back‖ G4. *ENTERTAINMENT REVIEWS/CRITICISM/COLUMN Matt Welch, Reason Magazine, ―Bailing Out Big Brother‖ Comments: In his piercing critique of two authors who want federal subsidies for news media, Welch calmly dismisses the idea of letting government take on ―the care and feeding of its watchdog.‖ Persuasive and intricately researched. 2nd Place: Greg Beato, Reason Magazine, ―From Paris Hilton to John Edwards: Celebrity sex tapes are the signature art form of Our Age‖ HM: Arty Nelson, Slake Los Angeles, ―Abstract L.A.‖ G5. ENTERTAINMENT NEWS OR FEATURE Ronald Grover, Tom Lowry and Cliff Edwards, Bloomberg Business Week, ―Revenge of the Cable Guys‖ Comments: Grover, Lowry and Edwards beautifully explain the ridiculously complex effort by cable firms to launch ―TV Everywhere,‖ the ability to view everything you wish on your laptop, tablet and someday your phone — and to do it so easily that you‘re willing to pay for it. 2nd Place: James M. Dorsey, Reason Magazine, ―Rap and Metal on Plant Islam‖ HM: Julie Jordan, People Magazine, ―I Miss Patrick So Much‖ G6.* IN-HOUSE OR CORPORATE PUBLICATION Bennet Kelley, Internet Law Center, Cyber Report Comments: Lots of news and info on an emerging field of law (and business), presented simply with lots of links for even more information. 2nd Place: Mary Lee, San Diego Community College District, We (With Excellence) HM: Mary Lee, San Diego Community College District, 2009 SDCCD Citizens' Oversiqht Committee H. ONLINE H1. NEWS/INVESTIGATIVE Julie Fax, The Jewish Journal of Greater Los Angeles, ―The Ugly Secret‖ Comments: The author shines a light on a non-physical abuse, a pervasive stigma among Jewish woman, with this thoroughly researched and well written report. 2nd Place: Sachi Cunningham, Los Angeles Times, ―They‘ve struck oil, but they‘re not rich‖ HM: Matthew Fleischer, Witness L.A., ―Follow the gang money: Part 2 – The Interventionists‖ H2. NEWS TWEET Single or series. Imran Jattala, Ahmadiyya Times/ Ahmadiyyatimes.com, Tweets from May 28-30, 2010 Comments: Reading tweets as violence escalates and information changes tone was fascinating. Game changing use of this social tool. 2nd Place: Nita Lelyveld, Martin Beck, Los Angeles Times, Twitter Update During Dec. Deluge HM: Alex Wilk, ATVN – USC , ―Pres. Obama Visits USC‖ HM: Alex Schaffert, Southern California Public Radio, ―Election Night 2010‖ H3. FEATURE Stef Willen, McSweeney's Internet Tendency, "All in A Days Tragedy" Comments: The subject matter is unique and interesting, and Willen's writing style is bold, engaging and heartfelt. She has a great sense of humor and honesty. 2nd Place: Stef Willen, McSweeney's Internet Tendency, "I Think I Found Your Cat" HM: Michael Jack Lawlor, Transmopolis, "Dr Mongo: LA's Spoken Word" News Organization: Transmopolis H4. PERSONALITY PROFILE Robert Meeks and Greg Mellen, Long Beach Press-Telegram, ―From the streets, ‗Kingman‘ rises‖ Comments: A concisely written profile of local character ―Kingman‖ that nonetheless manages to recount events spanning different countries and even decades in an orderly manner. The well-produce video complements it astoundingly – quality primary and secondary footage; compelling quotes from Linton and moving musical selections; and an efficient reorganization of the paper‘s text for a fine script. 2nd Place: John Gittelsohn and Nadja Brandt, BusinessWeek, ―Trump Evokes Doubts of Fading Apprentice With Newest Link to Golf as Brand‖ HM: Callie Schweitzer, Neon Tommy, ―For One Pulitzer Prize Winning Photographer, Some Days Are Never Forgotten‖ H5. CONSUMER JOURNALISM Service oriented journalism. David Evans, Bloomberg Markets Magazine, ―Fallen Soldier‘s Family Denied Cash as Insurers Profit‖ Comments: Thorough and informative. Very relevant to current affairs. Glad someone has brought light to the situation – and an investigation. 2nd Place: Callie Schweitzer, NeonTommy.com, ―Social Media Campaign for National Coming Out Week has Roots ion L.A.‖ HM: Michael Goldstein, Los Angeles Times, ―Vegas Bets on Sexy Dancers‖ H6. MULTI MEDIA PACKAGE Genaro Molina, Albert Lee, Bryan Chan and Marc Martin, Los Angeles Times, ―Project 50‖ Comments: What a multi-media journey. This creative group told the story of skid row's homeless. The presentation was flawless and the hard work showed. Great photos, video, sound and stories. 2nd Place: * AirTalk and Digital Staffs, KPCC, ―Evaluating Teacher Evaluations‖ Comments: Again using all media to inform the user on how teachers are evaluated. Engaging. HM: Mark Boster, Dkathy MY Pyon, Calvin Hom, Don Kelsen and Sean Connelley, Los Angeles Times, ―Four Seasons in Yosemite‖ Wow H7. *COLUMN/COMMENTARY Stef Willen, McSweeney‘s Internet Tendency, A Column About Inventorying Other People‘s Tragedies Comments: At some point, Willen‘s columns should be bound in a volume and made available to the readers who have the misfortune of not frequenting the portal where ―Total Loss‖ is published. Its themes are so human, permanent and universal that they rise above the temporary feel of much of the political and economic matter its competitors drew from. The vivid, engaging pieces are written and edited expertly, to boot. 2nd Place: Greg Beato, Reason, ―Copy Fight: A new front opens in the battle over online copyright infringement‖ HM: Timothy A. Spangler, Forbes Online, ―On the Docket: Inside the Courtroom‖ H8. ONLINE SPORTS NEWS/FEATURE/COMMENTARY Mark Heisler, Truthdig.com, ―Role Models for the Id‖ Comments: Heisler takes on a hot-button topic and two iconic but controversial sports stars like Ben Roethlisberger and Tiger Woods in a very informative, entertaining, witty and provocative way. No pulling punches and even using his own family to kind of put a bow on the commentary and wrap it up at the end. An easy read, never dragged, makes you constantly wait for the next paragraph to see where he might be going next. It is the kind of piece that is interesting because of the premise, but continuously makes you think throughout – whether you agree with him or not. 2nd Place: Shotgun Spratling, Neon Tommy, ―Not Everyone Should Be Allowed to Wear 42‖ HM: Tom Hoffarth, Los Angeles Daily News, ―Don‘t Stand So Close to Me, I Gotta See Zenyatta Just One More Time‖ H9. ENTERTAINNMENT NEWS/FEATURE/COMMENTARY/REVIEWS Dylan Howard & David Perel, RadarOnline.com, ―Mel Gibson: Sex, Lies & Audiotapes‖ Comments: This is a great example of how online publications can apply standard journalism techniques to provide coverage of a story. It‘s research, interview, sourcing and reporting at its best. Congratulations for your work combining these two worlds in reporting a news story. 2nd Place: Tara Wallis-Finestone, NBCLA.com, ―Courtney Love Assembles a Twitter Army‖ HM: Chris Hedges, Truthdig.com, ―The Pictures of War You Aren‘t Supposed to See‖ H10. WEBLOG, INDIVIDUAL Celeste Fremon, WitnessLA.com Comments: Good reporting, passionate writing, righteous anger – the facts 2nd Place: Ted Johnson, Variety, WilshireandWashington.com HM: Brad A. Greenberg, Jewish Journal of Greater Los Angeles, The GodBlog H11. WEBLOG, GROUP Amy Scattergood, LA Weekly, ―Squid Ink‖ Comments: Wide range of subject matter, covered in a nice variety of ways. Interviews are good, there are newsy items and some profiles. I‘d read this blog regularly. 2nd Place: Tom Hoffarth, Los Angeles Daily News, ―Farther off the Wall‖ HM: Alex Schaffert, Southern California Public Radio, ―Pacific Swell‖ H12. WEBSITE, EXCLUSIVE TO THE INTERNET Zaude Kaufman, Truthdig.com Comments: Good looking, interactive and deep website. Lots of work goes into this site and it shows. 2nd Place: Dainiel Heimpel, Fosteringmediaconnections.org Comments: A one man crusade well presented. Good work. HM: Imran Jattala, AhmadiyyaTimes.com H13. WEBSITE, NEWS ORGANIZATION Michael Fleeman, Marla Lehner and Dahvi Shira, People Magazine, People.com Comments: Bright and colorful easy to navigate. Reflects the tone of the magazine perfectly. 2nd Place: Erin Broadley and Drex Heikes, LA Weekly, LAWeekly.com HM: Nick Gillespie, Reason Magazine, Reason.com H14. FACEBOOK PRESENCE BY A NEWS ORGANIZATION LA Weekly Facebook page Comments: The page engages its users, and gets tons of comments. Huge audience gain since entry was submitted. Enjoyed the added features. Well done. 2nd Place: Alex Schaffert, KPCCFM, KPCC S. Cal Public Radio HM: Anil Dewan, Which Way LA?,KCRW FM H15. BEST FACEBOOK PRESENCE BY AN INDIVIDUAL Stella Inger Facebook page KPSP Stella has gained a large audience that is very active. Comments abound on this page, which is easier said than done by an individual. I. SPECIAL INTEREST JOURNALISM I1. ADVOCACY JOURNALISM Nick Gillespie, Paul Feine and Drew Carrey, Reason Magazine, ―Reason saves Cleveland‖ Comments: Can a team of journalists and advocates fix a failed city that has lost half its residents? Reason‘s video series told Cleveland what was wrong with its schools and anti-business policies and how to fix it. The stunned City Council asked them to town to hear more. A strong start to a wildly ambitious activism project. 2nd Place: Matthew Fleisher & Celeste Fremon, WitnessLA/Spot.Us, ―The LA Justice Report‖ HM: Daniel Heimpel, FosteringMediaConnections.org, ―Changing the Foster Care Narrative‖ J. INTERNATIONAL JOURNALISM J1. HARD NEWS Claudine Mulard, Le Monde (France), "Should the California Constitution Be Revised?'" Comments: Excellent writing. Claudine's varied diction, intellect and thorough reporting style made this piece thought-provoking and educational. J2. NEWS FEATURE Claes Andreasson, Swedish National Public Radio, ―Death In The Desert‖ Comments: The story created was vivid...we felt like we were there. 2nd Place: Anna Jonsson Connell, Hemtrevligt Magazine, ―Lars Roos At My Place‖ HM: Daniele Compatangelo, Italian TV, ―The Los Angeles Breakdown‖ J3. ENTERTAINMENT NEWS OR FEATURE Claudia Laffranchi, Swiss Made Magazine, ―Time To Give‖ Comments: Positive entertainment piece on charity within Hollywood. We just loved this! 2nd Place: Claes Andreasson, Swedish National Public Radio, ―Meet Me @ Metro‖ HM: Tom Tugend, Jerusalem Post, ―Cellulord Paranoia‖ J4. *COLUMNIST OR CRITIC Tom Walters, CTV News (Canadian Television), "Image Rehab?" Comments: Interesting, timely and relevant content that speaks to current social and familial issues. Nicely done. 2nd Place: Barbara Gasser, Steiermark Report (Austria), "Election Time" K. YOUTH AND STUDENT MEDIA K1.* BEST STUDENT NEWSPAPER Staff, Los Angeles Collegian, LA City College Comments: This jam-packed campus paper takes on a secretive and arrogant college administration on many issues and discovers emails that shows the adults' hostility towards the student reporters. These young people are doing their jobs, and a fine job at that. 2ndPlace: Staff, University Times, Cal State LA K2. BEST NEWS WEBSITE *Staff, University Times, Cal State LA Comments: A live site filled with news, culture and even heartfelt rants, University Times at the url CoolStateLA is well-written and offers a nice variety for readers. K3. BEST INDIVIDUAL BLOG N/A K4. *BEST PHOTOGRAPHY Reuben E. Reynoso, Los Angeles Collegian, ―Diverse‖ Comments: Reuben Reynoso is heading for great things with his artful photo design talents that blend a wry political sensibility with fine photography technique. 2nd Place: Claudine Jasmin, Los Angeles Collegian, ―Dental Technician Program‖ HM: Shotgun Spratling, Neon Tommy, ―USC-Notre Dame Fotball Game‖ K5. *BEST WRITING—PRINT Reuben E. Reynoso, Los Angeles Collegian, ―Professor Journeys Through African Spirituality‖ Comments: This is a beautiful conceived and detailed profile about the fascinating entry of an American into a secret world in west Africa. Written like a pro. 2nd Place: Mary Mars Melnicoff, Los Angeles Collegian, ―Sports by the numbers‖ HM: Alexander Woodman, UCLA, ―Struggle for Perceptibility‖

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