2015 minnesota spj page one program

The Minnesota Professional Chapter

of the

Society of Professional Journalists

presents:

The 2015 Page One Awards

May 19, 2015

The Commons

Minneapolis

The Minnesota Professional Chapter of

the Society ofProfessional Journalists

Page One Awards Banquet

May 29, 2014

7:00 p.m.

Welcome

Student Scholarships

Peter S. Popovich Award

President's Award

Keynote

Page One Awards Presented

Chris Newmarker

MNSPJ Chapter President

Presented by Jenna Ross

MN SPJ Board member

Presented to Elizabeth Anderson and

Clara Hatcher

Presented by Dave Aeikens, MN SPJ

Board member

Presented to James Eli Shiffer

Presented by Chris Newmarker

MN SPJ Chapter President

Gretchen Morgenson

Assistant business and financial editor

The New York Times

Tom Weber, Minnesota Public Radio

Student Scholarship Award Winners

Each year, the Minnesota Society ofProfessional Journalists board ofdirectors

selects two college students studying in the field of journalism to receive its

annual student scholarship. This year, MNSPJ is pleased to award two $2,500

scholarships.

The funds for the scholarship are generated, in part, through your purchases at

the Page One Awards Silent Auction. In addition, the board traditionally directs

a portion of the local membership dues to fund the scholarships.

The scholarship application process is highly competitive, and applicants must

either be enrolled in a post-secondary institution in Minnesota or be a

Minnesota high school graduate enrolled in a post-secondary institution

outside ofMinnesota.

Elizabeth Anderson

Elizabeth Anderson is a junior at the University ofMinnesota, where she is

working toward a major in journalism and a minor in social justice. She

transferred to Minnesota from the University ofWisconsin-La Crosse, hoping

to nab a job at the Minnesota Daily. She became a reporter there in 2014. Her

clips reveal her clear writing skills and ability to spot a good enterprise subject.

She also does public relations and event planning for the university's SPJ

chapter. Star Tribune business reporter Neal St. Anthony said she brings

"determination, goodwill, great effort and a wonderful attitude to her studies

and work."

Clara Hatcher

Clara Hatcher is a first-year student at Marquette University, where she is

working toward a major in journalism and a minor in international affairs. She

co-hosts a Marquette Radio talk show, creating segments such as "Who's on the

bus?" an effort to capture a bit about Milwaukee residents' lives. "Let's see

how many people want to talk to a stranger on the bus today," she told her

listeners. A Duluth native, she has worked as an intern for the Duluth Budgeteer

News, where her editor praised her for her tenacity and "fresh enthusiasm."

2015 Peter S. Popovich Award Winner

The Peter S. Popovich Award is given by the board of the Minnesota Society of

Professional Journalists annually to the person or organization that exem-

plifies the fight for First Amendment rights.

The award, MN SPJs most prestigious, honors the life ofPeter Popovich, a MN

legislator, jurist, and tireless advocate for First Amendment rights.

Week in and week out, James Eli Shiffer's column in the Star Tribune, called

Full Disclosure, brings forth important information and insights on open

government and the public's right to know. Shiffer exposes government secrecy

and threats to freedom of information on topics such as the Department of

Corrections banning cameras in prisons. That ban, he eloquently argues,

"means that the nearly 10,000 inmates ofMinnesota prisons will recede even

further from public view, their faces all but invisible."

As an editor for the newspaper, Shiffer has also helped reporters use records to

hold government agencies accountable for their actions. He is the team leader

behind Brandon Stahl's continuing coverage of child protection failures --

stories that have led to substantial reforms -- and Jennifer Bjorhuss

investigation of the Iron Range Resources and Rehabilitation Board.

"James is the Star Tribune's most tireless advocate for access to government

records, especially the ones public entities would rather we not see or know

about," said Eric Wieffering, the Star Tribune's assistant managing editor for

news. "Time and again he helps citizens understand what they have the right to

know and, just as importantly, how the government or private interests have

restricted their access to information that should be public."

Peter S. Popovich Award winners 1979-2014

1979 The Minnesota Supreme Court & Chief Justice Robert Sheran

1980 Newell Grant, Publisher, Tri-State Daily News, Wahpeton-ND

1981 Roger Adams, Star and Tribune Freedom of Information Committee

1982 Jeanette McDougal, Data watch ofMinnesota

1983 T.J. Western; WCCO TV and Radio; St. Cloud Times

1984 Mark Baker, Editor, Lake Region Press and Lake Region Echo

1985 John R. Finnegan, St. Paul Pioneer Press and Dispatch

1986 Star and Tribune First Amendment Committee

1987 Duane Rasmussen, Forest Lake Times, ECM Post Review

1988 John Fisher, Annandale Advocate;

Debra Flemming, Owatonna Peoples Press

1989 The Minnesota Daily and Marshall Tanick, Attorney

1990 Peter S. Popovich, Chief Justice, Minnesota Supreme Court

1991 Patricia Hirl Longstaff

1992 Robert Franklin, FOI Director, Minnesota SPJ

1993 Kevin Burke, Chief Judge, Hennepin County

1994 Mark Anfinson, Media Attorney

1995 Jim Pumarlo, Red Wing Republican Eagle

1996 The Minnesota Daily and Michelle Ames, Editor;

John Stanoch, District Judge, Hennepin County

1997 Donald R. Casey, St. Cloud Times

1998 Reps. Matt Entenza and Bill Macklin; Sen. Richard Cohen

1999 Lucy Dalglish, FOI Director, Minnesota SPJ

2000 Tim McGuire, Editor, Minneapolis Star Tribune

2001 Randy Lebedoff, Minneapolis Star Tribune

2002 John Borger, Media Attorney

2003 Bill Lawrence and Mark Bartel

2004 Donald S. Gemberling, former director, Minnesota Department ofAdministration,

Information Analysis and Policy Division

2005 Walter Kuckes, Avon, Minn.

2006 Rep. Mary Liz Holberg; Sen. Don Betzold

2007 Gary Hill, former KSTP-TV journalist

2008 Mary Flister, Open government advocate, Maplewood, Minn.

Robbie La Fleur, Director MN Legislative Reference Library

2009 The Echo student newspaper, Faribault High School: Kelly Zwagerman, adviser;

Vicky Carillo, Christen Hildebrandt and Ben Jackson, editors

2010 Randy Furst, Star Tribune

2011 Jane E. Kirtley, Silha Professor ofMedia Ethics and Law, School of Journalism &Mass

Communication, University ofMinnesota

2012 Glenn Howatt & Richard Merryhew, Star Tribune

2013 The Timberjay Newspapers, Marshall Helmberger, publisher

2014 Joan Gilbertson, WCCO-TV and Art Hughes, freelance journalist

2015 James Eli Shiffer, Minneapolis Star Tribune

Keynote Speaker

Gretchen Morgenson, assistant business and financial editor and a columnist at

The New York Times, has covered the world financial markets for the Times

since May 1998 and won the Pulitzer Prize in 2002 for her trenchant and

incisive coverage ofWall Street.

Ms. Morgenson is the co-author of Reckless

Endangerment, published by Times Books in

2011 ; author of Forbes Great Minds Of

Business, published by John Wiley & Co., in

1997; and co-author of The Womans Guide to

the Stock Market, published by Harmony Books

in 1981 .

Ms. Morgenson joined The Times as assistant

business and financial editor in May 1998.

Previously, she was assistant managing editor at

Forbes magazine since rejoining the magazine in

March 1996. Before that, she was the press

secretary for the Forbes for President campaign

from September 1995 to March 1996.

Born in State College, Penn., on January 2, 1956, Ms. Morgenson received a B.A.

degree in English and history from Saint OlafCollege, Northfield Minn., in

1976.

Awards Presentation

We ask all winners, or a representative from the winning news outlet, to come

forward to accept their awards during the presentation.

Duplicate awards are available for purchase from MNSPJ. If you would like to

order a duplicate plaque or certificate, please contact us by

email at [email protected].

Congratulations to all of the award winners!

Newspapers

Spot News

Newspaper - 50,000+ circulation

First Place: Randy Furst, Rochelle Olson, Pat Pheifer and Josephine Marcotty, Star Tribune

"New Year's Fire"

Judge's comments: Chock-full ofdetails and solid storytelling. Easily stood out among the

competition.

Second Place: Pat Pheifer, Nicole Norfleet, Chao Xiong and Libor Jany, Star Tribune

"Scott Patrick Shooting"

Third Place: Chris Tomasson, St. Paul Pioneer Press

"Chrie Kluwe Coverage"

Spot News

Newspaper - Less than 50,000 circulation

First Place: Tom Olsen, Brady Slater, Jana Hollingsworth and Addie Bergstrom, Duluth

News Tribune

"He was quiet and Details emerge in fatal West Duluth attack"

Judge's comments: A well-done portrait ofa misfit who lost it and killed randomly. Pluses: the

mental health component, comments from the neighbors, the store owners/patrons; good use of

statistics for perspective. For both the portrait and the straight-news story, a lot ofinformation

had to be gathered in a breaking-news situation.

Second Place: Jana Hollingsworth, Duluth News Tribune

"Welty reveals Central school purchase price"

Third Place: Dylan Thomas, Southwest Journal

"Construction atop Karmel Mall collapses"

Feature


First Place: Richard Chin, St. Paul Pioneer Press

"Service Through Starvation"

Judge's comments: Very interesting feature topic, the pace ofthe story was well executed and

the quality ofwriting was excellent.

Second Place: Laurie Hertzel, Star Tribune

"Kate Dicamillo profile"

Third Place: John Reinan, Star Tribune

"Hopkins clockmaker repairs the world's rarest timepieces"

Feature


First Place: Brady Slater, Duluth News Tribune

"Skydivers mark their Miracle"

Judge's comments: Great capture ofmany voices relating the same story at the same time, with

effective insertion offacts and outside influences without imposing on the story.

Second Place: Nate Gotlieb, The Free Press

"Luitjens set to resume life in Mankato"

Third Place: Edie Schmierbach, The Free Press

"Waseca man meets challenges ofwar injuries"

Enterprise/In-Depth


First Place: Josephine Marcotty, Renee Jones Scheider, Star Tribune

"Bees on the Brink"

Judge's comments: Very definitive story on a complex issue. Very detailed. The reporters

scoured all the research.

Second Place: Richard Chin, St. Paul Pioneer Press

"Our Heroes"

Third Place: Chris Serres, Star Tribune

"Unchecked Care"

Enterprise/In-Depth


First Place: Kirsti Marohn, David Unze. St. Cloud Times

"Scars of Service"

Judge's comments: Kirsti Marohn and David Unze have woven together a remarkable series by

turns haunting and poignant. Through deeply reported personal stories, they reveal the

breadth ofthe crisis facing Americas veterans. An important subject and a model series,

beautifully written and executed.

Second Place: John Lundy, Tom Olsen, Duluth News Tribune

"Heroin Hits Home"

Third Place: Sarah McKenzie, Dylan Thomas, Michelle Bruch, Eric Best, Southwest Journal

"Homeless with Homework"

Investigative


First Place: Tad Vezner, St. Paul Pioneer Press

"Who is he? Whoever he wants to be, victims say"

Judge's comments: A quick, sharp lead pulls the reader into this detailed story. It took a lot of

work to piece together this complex puzzle.

Second Place: Jesse Marx, Allie Conti, City Pages

"American Hustle"

Investigative


First Place: Sam Black, Tom Smith,Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal

"10 Months; $3 million"

Judge's comments: This is a huge amount ofresearch with very readable details that enhanced

the overall issues. Mind-boggling data on highest-paid board directors is graphed out in a very

accessible format. Starting offwith Robert Millers situation gives us an immediate way of

relating to the topic. This is a very compelling package at a time when income inequity is

reported regularly nationwide.

Second Place: Kirsti Marohn, St. Cloud Times

"Unraveling the mystery ofRitsches millions"

Third Place: Mark Sommerhauser, St. Cloud Times

"Pricey VA wind turbines around U.S. remain idle"

Business


First Place: Adam Belz, Star Tribune

"Over 50, Working Against Time"

Judge's comments: Puts a face on a painful phenomenon, that I'm sure a lot ofpeople think is

apocryphal.

Second Place: Jim Spencer, Star Tribune

"Minnesota Companies Shelter Billions"

Third Place: Tom Webb, St. Paul Pioneer Press

"Malls: Outlet vs. Indoor"

Business


First Place: Sam Black,Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal

"Insert Skyscraper Here"

Judge's comments: What does it take to commission a new skyscraper for a big city? More than

many might imagine, as this deep dive into the anatomy ofhigh-rise office construction makes

clear. Smart layout, clever cover art, deft use ofgraphics all help to show -- not just tell --

what's going on or not going on on the Twin Cities skyline.

Second Place: Michelle Miron, St. Croix Valley Lowdown

"St. Croix Sensory Lab Scientifically Studies Stink"

Sports Story


First Place: Joe Christensen, Star Tribune

"On the road with Gophers football: From liftoff to kickoff"

Judge's comments: This story made me feel like I was right there in the middle ofeverything. I

learned a lot and was entertained at the same time. Very nice work.

Second Place: Andy Greder, St. Paul Pioneer Press

"Minnesota Timberwolves: Playoffdrought nearing 10 years; good times remembered"

Third Place: Chris Tomasson, St. Paul Pioneer Press

"Miracle Baby: Learning from brothers' mistakes helped get Munnerlyn to NFL"

Sports Story


First Place: Jon Nowacki, Duluth News Tribune

"Miracle at Malosky"

Judge's comments: I loved the intensity ofthis story. I could feel everything, from the

excitement to the confusion to the thrill ofvictory. Very nicely done.

Second Place: Michelle Miron, St. Croix Valley Lowdown

"Crackerjack Lumberjack"

Third Place: Roger Bergerson, Park Bugle

"The man who put the ice in the fairgrounds Coliseum reminisces"

Arts & Entertainment


First Place: Chris Riemenschneider, Star Tribune

"Six days on the road with Trampled by Turtles"

Judge's comments: Chris Riemenschneider takes the reader on the road with Minnesota

musicians in this piece about Trampled by Turtles and the music scene. He enriches and

expands the story by layering candid conversation with the band members as well as the crew,

humanizing the effort ofmakingmusic and a living simultaneously. Distinctive photography

supports the reporter's illustration ofvarious gigs and the band's travels. Readers are also

clearly directed to a photo gallery and video. A great example ofcontemporary storytelling.

Second Place: Amy Carlson Gustafson, St. Paul Pioneer Press

"40 Years After Opening"

Third Place: JeffBaenen, The Associated Press

"Bobby Vee braves Alzheimer's to record once more"



First Place: Dylan Thomas, Southwest Journal

"On being more than just a radio show"

Judge's comments: This is an intriguing and compelling look at one womans faith journey and

how she expanded her vision to include others. The growth ofthe radio program and getting a

National Humanities Medal shows that her vibe resonates with the public.

Second Place: Michelle Miron, Forest Lake Lowdown

"Magic is Mojo for Escape Artist Karl Achilles"

Third Place: Heather Rule, Fergus Falls Daily Journal

"Holocaust survivors share their stories"

Column


First Place: Ruben Rosario, St. Paul Pioneer Press

"Survivors Spoke and the Archbishop Listened"

Column


First Place: Steve Lange, Post-Bulletin

"Oddchester: Crazy Haircut"

Judge's comments: Clever and breezy. It blew me away. Manages to capture years ofevents,

good and bad, in a few hundred words leaving behind a memorable story well-told.

Second Place: Jennifer Koski, Post-Bulletin

"We always have such fun"

Third Place: Kirsten Delegard, Southwest Journal

"Revisiting on of the ugliest chapters in Minneapolis history

Editorial


First Place: Jill Burcum, David Joles, Scott Gillespie, Star Tribune

"Separate And Equal"

Judge's comments: The fairest way to judge was to consider only the first editorial, even though

I found the entire series compelling. Very well written, filled with stark facts and picture-

painting details that tell the story and no doubt inspired action to fix Indian schools in

Minnesota.

Second Place: Pat Effenberger, St. Paul Pioneer Press

"$800,000 Down the Drain"

Editorial


First Place: Brian Hunhoff, Yankton County Observer

"Ten Commandments for elected officials"

Judge's comments: This is an outstanding delineation ofgovernment meetings and how they

more and more are closed to the public that the government officials serve. The editorial is

Government Service 101 for elected officials, and a rebuke to lenient lawyers whose attitude

is Its OK to discuss this in private. A signed editorial is to be commended and sets an

example ofthe kind ofresponsible transparency called for in the editorial. Kudos.

Second Place: Joe Spear, The Free Press

"Attorney election impacts all"

Third Place: Chuck Frederick, Duluth News Tribune

"Fosle's posts part of the ugliness"

Graphics/Art and Illustration


First Place: Derek Simmons, Star Tribune

"Green Line Map"

Judge's comments: A phenomenally constructed piece ofartwork and intriguing detail.

Second Place: Eddie Thomas, Ray Grumney, Star Tribune

"Bees: Illustrations & Graphics"

Third Place: Kirk Lyttle, St. Paul Pioneer Press

"Spring Arts Guide"

Graphics/Art and Illustration


First Place: Gary Meader, Duluth News Tribune

"Can the System Always Prevent Tragedy?"

Judge's comments: Very creative way to lay out the graphics and really depict what is going on

in the piece.

Second Place: Jake Schreiber, Finance & Commerce

"Finance & Commerce Investment Guide to the Twin Cities"

Third Place: Brian Hunhoff, Yankton County Observer

"Original Art for 'Old Time Crime' Series"

Page Design

All Newspapers

First Place: Derek Simmons, Star Tribune

"May 21 : Super Bowl 2018 announcement, Sports cover"

Judge's comment: What a fun sports front -- especially for a May newspaper. This view of

frozen tundra . . . wait, that's the wrong team . . . oficy midwinter must have been particularly

eye-catching in May. Smart idea to play the rest ofthe page simple to keep the focus on the

illustration.

Second Place: Ben Ramsden, Kim Johnson, Clare Kennedy, Mark Reilly,Minneapolis/St.

Paul Business Journal

"The Tree ofTim McKee"

Third Place: Dana Croatt, Southwest Journal

"Brought to Light"

Headlines


First Place: Staff, Star Tribune

"Eric Dean: The boy they couldn't save"

"Wayward coastal hummingbird gets a ticket out of St. Paul"

"New York Times' Minnesota Thanksgiving dish lets loose grapes ofwrath"

Judge's comments: This entry shows skill at a variety oftypes ofheadlines: the serious

headline for a large project about a tragedy that resulted in the death ofa child, a light

headline on a story about an out-of-place hummingbird, and a bright headline, despite an

extremely tight count, on a "talker" ofa story about the NYT's 50-state Thanksgiving feature.

Second Place: Tim Whitecotton, St. Paul Pioneer Press

"Get ready to shovel like its 1991"

"City has made its list, but what it really wants is a new bridge"

Third Place: Staff, Star Tribune

"Hey, brother can you spare a Bitcoin?"

"Fargomadefor TV: Well now, thats different"

"'Maidens' Called to God Then Lived Through Hell"

Headlines


First Place: Dave Nevanen, Duluth News Tribune

"Nun better"

Judge's comments: Excellent play on words, very fitting for the story.

Second Place: Jeffrey Sjerven, Finance & Commerce

"Porsche Design: Tower takes off-street parking to new heights"

Best Issue


First Place: Rene Sanchez, Star Tribune

"Nov. 16, 2014 edition"

Judge's comments: Lots to read. Definitely a two-cups-of-coffee Sunday paper. Maybe a three.

Feature on the dangers ofATVriding, especially on kids, must've surely sparked conversation

all over the state. But the stories about millennials lack ofphone skills, VA clinic irregularities,

and the economic impact ofMayo Clinic expansion made for a compelling front page. Inside

piece on the Northstar line another worthy read. And ofcourse enough U ofMGopher

coverage to satisfy the most rabid fan.

Best Issue


First Place: Dirk DeYoung, Mark Reilly, Kim Johnson,Minneapolis/St. Paul Business

Journal

"Oct. 10, 2014 edition"

Judge's comments: Crisp layout. Crystal clear photograph. Clever graphics. But the Oct. 10

issue isn't just pretty. Lead story on latter-day power broker Louis Jambois ofthe St. Paul Port

Authority offered a deep nuanced look at how the subject makes important decisions in ways

that may seem mysterious to the public he serves. An impressive forceful product.

Second Place: Staff, Duluth News Tribune

"Jan. 18, 2014 edition"

Magazines

Best Profile Story

Magazine

First Place: Doug Hennes, St. Thomas Magazine

"Malone: A Priest in Full"

Judge's comments: This piece gets to the heart ofwho John Malone is and has always been. A

good profile story should be able to explain why a person chooses to do what he or she does,

and this nailed it. It was a well-rounded reporting piece, which included interviews with

family, friends, and peers, nestled in with smart anecdotes that showed (not told) what the

subject is about. The piece was an enjoyable read, and brought to light someone who clearly

deserves the recognition. The photographs were stunning as well and the one ofhim holding

the Groucho glasses just added that extra humorous detail to remind readers he is no ordinary

priest.

Second Place: Joanna Takes,Woodworker's Journal

"Woodworker Becomes a Designer ofTools"

Third Place: Steve Lange, Rochester Magazine

"Command Performance"

Best Feature Story

Magazine

First Place: Burl Gilyard, Twin Cities Business Magazine

"Banking on Minneapolis"

Judge's comments: A well-written story with reporting that incorporates all relevant parties.

The strong lead provides a clear visual, the writing is crisp and clear, the quotes add

dimension. The piece includes sidebars that bring added context to the reader's understanding

ofthe story.

Second Place: Tad Simons, Twin Cities Business Magazine

"Blue Note"

Third Place: Jennifer Koski, Steve Lange, Lena Valenty, Rochester Magazine

"Life Lessons, Olympics Style"

Best Department

Magazine

First Place: Jennifer Koski, Rochester Magazine

"Random Rochesterite"

Judge's comments: The questions are clever and fun, and the subjects are deserving. This is a

fun read. It reminded me that everybody has a story to tell.

Second Place: Sarah Dorison, Dana Croatt, Minnesota Parent

"From the Editor"

Third Place: Chris Marshall, Sandor Nagyszalanczy, Larry Okrend,Woodworker's Journal

"Today's Shop"

Best Column

Magazine

First Place: Steve Lange, Rochester Magazine

"Oddchester"

Judge's comments: This column is real, honest, quirky and moves gracefully without trying.

Second Place: Jennifer Koski, Rochester Magazine

"My First Time"

Third Place: Dale Kurschner, Twin Cities Business Magazine

"Editor's Note"

Best Cover

Magazine

First Place: Dana Croatt,Minnesota Parent

"Birthday Bliss"

Judge's comments: The design and cover lines give a mom many reasons to purchase this issue

or open up and read ifa subscriber solely based on the cover. Right offthe bat it promises to

help readers with three main struggles a mom goes through: Getting the kids to school on

time, knowing what to do in case her child is every bullied, and throwing a child the best

birthday bash she can dream of. The use ofcolors is eye-grabbing, and it doesn't hurt that the

cover model is adorable. I also enjoyed reading a tidbit about her, making the issue feel more

personal, as ifshe is someone growing up in my neighborhood.

Second Place: Twin Cities Business

Twin Cities Business Magazine June issue

Third Place: Scott Schoerbl, Jamie Klemmensen, Rochester Magazine

"Single in the City"

Best Page Design

Magazine

First Place: Sara Klomp, Mike Ekern, St. Thomas Magazine

"Immigrant Impact"

Judge's comments: Beautifully laid out and told through visuals, very moving.

Second Place: Jamie Klemmensen, Ken Klotzbach, Rochester Magazine

"Faces from the Field"

Best Issue

Magazine

First Place: Twin Cities Business

"November edition"

Judge's comments: Starting with the look and feel ofthe issue, the cover design is fantastic and

I appreciate the use ofwhite space and variety in layouts and fonts, making it easy to read one

page to the next. The use ofinfographics and illustrations are smart. It also offers a great

variety ofcontent with catchy headlines, and topics are ofboth local importance but does a

nice job oftying it to national significance (and vice versa). Overall, an enjoyable and

informative read.

Second Place: Rochester Magazine

"March 1 , 2014"

Third Place: Brian Brown, St. Thomas Magazine

"Fall 2014 edition"

Television

Spot/Breaking News

Television - 50+ newsroom employees

First Place: Boyd Huppert, KARE

"Fury in Ferguson"

Judge's comments: Courageous and outstanding.

Spot/Breaking News

Television - Less than 50 newsroom employees

First Place: Laurie Stribling, Glenn Kellahan,WDIO-TV

"Summer Storm Aftermath"

Judge's comments: Well written to convey maximum information in a concise format, a

process aided by excellent camerawork and editing.

Hard News Report


First Place: Jennifer Mayerle, Joe Berglove,WCCO-TV

"Stalking With Cell Phones"

Judge's comments: A compelling and unnerving story, with 911 recordings, photos and

interviews woven effectively throughout. A viewer service.

Second Place: Boyd Huppert, KARE

"Why Can't We Talk?"

Hard News Report


First Place: Briggs LeSavage, Glenn Kellahan,WDIO-TV

"The Last Ride Home"

Judge's comments: Especially well-written, seamlessly allowing a complex and somewhat

controversial story to unfold. Viewers can make their own judgments on the events that took

place and on what should happen next. Well shot and edited.

Second Place: Renee Passal, John Whaley,WDIO-TV

"Return to Hanoi"

Third Place: Devin Bartolotta, Chuck Sibley, KTTC-TV

"No takers for Southeast Minnesota town's free residential lot program"

Feature


First Place: Boyd Hupper, Jonathan Malat, KARE

"Emmett and Earl"

Judge's comments: This is one ofthe sweetest, quietest broadcast features I've ever seen. It took

a simple story and made is somethingmore, an ode to those moments in life and those special

people who come along too infrequently. There were other strong features in this field, but this

one stands out by the way the journalists stood back and let the story flow on its own.

Second Place: Adrienne Broaddus, KARE

"Family hears son's heartbeat in another man's chest"

Third Place: Jennifer Mayerle, David Porter,WCCO-TV

"Rallying Around Rachel"

Feature


First Place: Maarja Anderson, Carl Sauer,WDIO-TV

"Fun on Highway 61"

Judge's comments: This light feature was just the right length and a good mix ofinformation,

visuals and light-hearted commentary. I've never been to Minnesota, but after watching this

feature, I found myselfheading to Mapquest.com to see what it would take to take this day out

onto a trip I have to make to the state next summer.

Second Place: Mary McGuire, Chuck Sibley, Noel Sederstrom, Fox 47News/KTTC

Newscenter

"First In Flight"

Special Project/In-depth Series


First Place: Boyd Huppert, Jonathan Malat, KARE

"Fort Hood Survivor"

Judge's comments: Patrick Ziegler, brain injury survivor ofthe Fort Hood sniper, and his wife

talk about not only the encouraging story ofhis recovery but also about the challenges with

movement and with behaviors that result from brain injuries. With an excellent explanation

ofthe story and medical issues, fabulous supporting visuals/footage, sound and graphics, this

report bolsters Zieglers touching quote: Sometimes I dont like looking at reality. It's a reality

we need to see.

Second Place: Jennifer Mayerle, Sean Skinner,WCCO-TV

"Struggling with Sleep & School"



First Place: Brittany Falkers, Desten Johnson,WDIO/WIRT

"Amelia's Fight"

Judge's comments: This beautifully filmed video tells the story ofa sick child, and how her

family's fight to save her intersects with the politics ofmarijuana legalization and medical

marijuana legislation. This compelling video shows how human lives are affected in times of

political and social change.

Second Place: Laurie Stribling, Glenn Kellahan,WDIO/WIRT

"Survivor Strong"

Third Place: Devin Bartolotta, KTTC-TV

"Tale ofTwo Cities: Cleveland and Rochester"

Investigative


First Place: Tom Lyden, Brian Wiedeke, KMSP-TV

"Maidens ofRiver Road"

Judge's comments: In sticking with the story, going out to significant locations, Tom Lyden and

Brian Wiedeke give a report that rebukes the county attorneys position that he lacked

evidence. The report shows credible witnesses. The multi-part segments advance each part of

the story, with the young witnesses, interviews with law enforcement, and explanations ofthe

nuances oflaw which, essentially, continue the victimization ofthe girls and women in Victor

Barnards group. This is an outstanding example ofreporting for the public good and the

attempt to seek justice for those who can't successfully access the system.

Second Place: Tom Lyden, Tyler Dammerville, Brian Wiedeke, KMSP-TV

"Insider Threat"

Third Place: Jennifer Mayerle, Tom Aviles,WCCO-TV

"Detecting Danger"

Investigative


First Place: Maarja Anderson, Glenn Kellahan,WDIO-TV

"Loved Ones Lost, Letters Found"

Judge's comments: This was a very competitive category. All three entrants are praiseworthy.

The first place entry demonstrates perseverance. The reporter and the station leave no loose

ends in a complex story that certainly, at times, must have been quite frustrating, with no

promise ofthe positive resolution they ultimately discovered.

Second Place: Laura Lee, KAAL TV/ABC 6 News

"ABC 6 Investigates Divided Department"

Third Place: Renee Passal John Whaley,WDIO-TV

"Death Under Investigation"

Newscast


First Place: Tom Lyden, Brian Wiedke Brad Swagger, KMSP-TV

"The Reporters"

Judge's comments: The show consistently covers difficult issues with sensitivity and balance,

while using good storytelling to maintain viewer interest.

Newscast


First Place: Newsroom,WDIO-TV

"Eyewitness News at Five"

Judge's comments: The camerawork on the blizzard aftermath was exceptional. Every shot

was interesting and fresh. Big snowstorms are a recurring event, but the stafftold the story

with vigor.

Radio

Spot/Breaking News

Radio

First Place: Newsroom staff,MPR News

"Officer Patrick shot and killed"

Judge's comments: Reporting was well-informed and comprehensive.

Hard News Report

Radio

First Place: Trisha Volpe, Laura McCallum, Will Lager, Manda Lillie,MPR News

"Focus on concussions transforms high school football in Minnesota"

Judge's comments: Well-researched presentation ofan important topic.

Feature

Radio

First Place: Marisa Helms, KFAI-FM

"Peggy's Dreams: Living life with Down syndrome"

Judge's comments: Excellent writing and production. Great storytelling that pulls listeners in!

Second Place: Britta Greene, KFAI-FM

"Abdi Elmi's Unique Distinction"

Third Place: Nancy Rosenbaum, KFAI-FM

"Closing Up Shop at Roberts Shoes"


Radio

First Place: Dan Gunderson, Kate Smith,MPR News

"Rail safety"

Judge's comments: Well-produced, detail-oriented series ofstories on an important topic.

Second Place: Marisa Helms, KFAI-FM

"Peggy's Dreams: Living life with Down syndrome"

Third Place: Dixie Treichel, KFAI-FM

"Getting a Handle on Ham Radio"

Investigative

Radio

First Place: Catharine Richert, Elizabeth Stawicki, Bill Catlin,MPR News

"Management, technology failures, miscommunication plagued MNsure"

Judge's comments: Compelling narrative draws listeners in to the story ofhow the problems

with MNSure evolved. A great investigative piece!

Newscast

Radio

First Place:WendyWilde, Dave Williams, Dan McCargar, Pete Steiner, KTOE-AM

"May 13, 2014 newscast"

Judge's comments: Newscast is well-written and packed with information. Good use oftape.

Second Place: Rick Kupchella, BringMeTheNews

"BMTN Newscast"

Third Place: Rick Kupchella, Aaron Ziemer, Newsroom staff, BringMeTheNews

"BMTN Vikings News"

Online

Best Website

Online

First Place: Joel Kramer, Andrew Putz, Corey Anderson,MinnPost

www.minnpost.com

Judge's comments: Out ofall the entries, this website stood out, based on: *The clean and

easy-to-use navigation, specific to the navigation bar at the top ofthe site. *The easy-to-find

and simply designed social media icons located at the top right ofthe site. *The typeface/fonts

were clean, simple and easy to read. *The layout was intuitive, so I did not have to think too

much when I wanted to locate specific content, links, etc. There was enough whitespace so the

reader could visually separate stories/content, etc. *The site was visually appealing--it did not

overwhelm the reader with too much content and images like other sites did.

Second Place: Star Tribune

www.startribune.com

Best Single News Story

Online

First Place: Eric Golden, Star Tribune

"Protesters block I-35W in Minneapolis, get heard at City Hall"

Judge's comments: Very thorough coverage both live and online story; paints an excellent

picture.

Second Place: Doug Grow,MinnPost

"Michelle MacDonald and the anatomy of a political train wreck"

Third Place: Beth Hawkins, Tom Nehil,MinnPost

"At MPS, data on teachers raise resource-equity questions"

Best Continuing Coverage

Online

First Place: MPR Newsroom,MPR News

"Betrayed by Silence"

Judge's comments: This was an easy decision. The Web page was beautifully presented with so

many links to intriguing stories I had a hard time deciding what to read first. First-rate

writing and reporting and a compelling subject matter. It's the whole package. Great work!

Second Place: Briana Bierschbach,MinnPost

"Sex Offenders Coverage"

Third Place: Andrea Swensson, Jay Gabler,Minnesota Public Radio / The Current

"The 400 Bar saga"


Online

First Place: Jim Walsh,MinnPost

"Turn the radio on: one man's guide to the 22 best specialty shows on Twin Cities airwaves"

Judge's comments: I chose Jim Walsh's because it offered readers not only thoughtful direction

on available radio, but also direct access/links to the available radio shows which (I believe) is

one ofthe best uses ofonline media.

Best Use ofMultimedia

Online

First Place: Staff, Star Tribune

"All-Star Game multimedia coverage"

Judge's comments: In this competitive field ofentries, the All-Star Game package created a

narrative using a wide range ofperspectives to maximize this collaboration in multimedia

storytelling. The staffutilized multiple tools including photo galleries, video, player maps and

the interactive live blog and the you be the manager game to cover many stories within the

story through different media. The coverage optimized layers ofthe All-Star Game from

historical references to the game itself. An ambitious endeavor using intentional strategies to

collect, connect and tell the story.

Second Place: ReneeJones Schneider, Jenni Pinkley, Deb Pastner, Derek Simmons, Star

Tribune

"Bees at the Brink"

Third Place: Dan Gunderson, Will Lager, Jeffrey Thompson, Jackson Forderer,MPR News

"Mystery trains: Crews, communities in the dark on chemical cargo"

Best Social Media Account Individual

Online

First Place: Ben Garvin, St. Paul Pioneer Press

@bengarvin

Judge's comments: Garvin's Twitter account included the most embedded videos (usingVine

and other vendors) and Instagram links. Also, he had the most retweets (RTs) from other

individuals, which showed how interactive/engaged he and his followers were. *He leveraged

the platform the best/most out ofthe three entrants (this speaks to the "innovation" criteria)

and posted a broad range ofstories for his followers. He also engaged them with personal

information/tweets and photos offamily members and friends.

Second Place: Michael Russo, Star Tribune

@russostrib

Third Place: Briana Bierschbach,MinnPost

@bbierschbach

Best Social Media Account Institutional

Online

First Place: Jay Gabler, Luke Taylor, Leah Garaas, Andrea Swensson,Minnesota Public

Radio / The Current

The Current on Facebook, Twitter & Instagram

Judge's comments: Out ofall the entries, this organization seemed to be the most engaged

with its followers and dedicated to customer service/communication. There were many @

replies to individual Twitter followers who experienced issues with links, etc. Also, there were

many embedded Twitter references to other related Twitter accounts. Also, there were many

links to its audio streaming website, some links to Meerkat and a fair number ofretweets

(RTs). I also thought the team used Twitter well by postingMarch Madness "Brackets" for

musicians (vs. basketball teams). This seemed to be a clever and innovative concept

leveraged.

Second Place: Staff, Star Tribune

@StarTribune on Twitter & Instagram

Third Place: Newsroom, St. Cloud Times

@sctimes on Twitter

Best News Video

Online

First Place: Molly Bloom, Curtis Gilbert, Bob Medcraft, Sam Heyn,MPR News

"Choo Choo Bob explains the Southwest light rail line conundrum"

Judge's comments: Clever, fun and educational, this video report presents the variety of

infrastructure options and objections in a clear, effective way. It's so good, even the

government can understand all the aspects ofthe lightrail issue.

Second Place: Ben Garvin, St. Paul Pioneer Press

"One family's struggle to legalize medical marijuana in MN for Paxton's sake"

Third Place: Renee Jones Schneider, Star Tribune

"Bees at the Brink"

Best Newsroom Blog

Online

First Place: Bob Collins,MPR News

NewsCut: http://blogs.mprnews.org/newscut/

NewsCut understands its audience, and you can tell by the topics it chooses to cover and the

number ofcomments it receives from readers. But the more impressive thing about NewsCut

is it follows blog best practices, making the text briefand right to the point, using good images

and incorporating aspects ofsocial media, with catchy headlines and clean design making it

easy and enjoyable to read.

Second Place: Julio Ojeda-Zapata, St. Paul Pioneer Press

Your Tech: http://blogs.twincities.com/yourtechweblog/

Third Place: Bob King, Duluth News Tribune

Astro Bob: http://www.duluthnewstribune.com/tags/astro-bob

Best Independent News Blog

Online

First Place: Ron Meador,MinnPost

Earth Journal Blog: https://www.minnpost.com/earth-journal

Judge's comments: Columns employ a great combination ofdata and what it means for the

environment. Also, the travel pieces are both informative and entertaining.

Second Place: Eric Black,MinnPost

Eric Black Ink Blog: https://www.minnpost.com/eric-black-ink

Third Place: Beth Hawkins,MinnPost

Learning Curve Blog: https://www.minnpost.com/learning-curve

Photography

Best News Photography

First Place: Jennifer Simonson, Jeffrey Thompson,MPR News

"Slain police officer laid to rest"

Judge's comments: Crisp clear photos capture the sadness and griefin the hearts offriends,

families and brothers. Effective without being intrusive.

Second Place: Elizabeth Flores, Star Tribune

"At east, at home"

Third Place: Andrew Link,Winona Daily News

"Fire tears through KidSport"

Best Feature Photography

First Place: Brian Peterson, Star Tribune

"State ofWonders

Judge's comments: Winter in the Arrowhead The Radiant North Shore is absolutely jaw-

dropping stunning. The dew drops on the spiders web are so unique as to be almost impossible

to comprehend and have the look ofa molecular wonder. The ice cave is awesome.

Second Place: Ben Garvin, St. Paul Pioneer Press

"Garvin feature photography"

Third Place: Nancy Kuehn,Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal

"Nancy Keuhn's Feature Photography"

Best Portrait Photography

First Place: Travis Anderson, Twin Cities Business Magazine

"Blue Note - Portrait ofKat Perkins"

Judge's comments: This portrait immediately illustrates the topic. Its a strong and compelling

image that makes you want to know more about Kat Perkins.

Second Place: Nancy Kuehn,Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal

"Nancy Kuehn's Portraits"

Third Place: Andrew Link,Winona Daily News

"Frosted Tips"

Best Sports Photography

First Place: Jennifer Simonson,MPR News

"Photos: Kayaker braves raging Minnehaha Falls"

Judge's comments: These are all fantastic. They tell a great story, and the first one is so

intense. It's thrilling and scary at the same time.

Second Place: Carlos Gonzalez, Star Tribune

"Carlos Gonzalez - Sports Photography"

Third Place: Brian Peterson, Star Tribune

"Brian Peterson - Sports Photography"

Special Awards

Young Journalist of the Year

Special Awards

First Place: Briana Bierschbach,MinnPost

Judge's comments: A natural talent with strong writing and storytelling skills, who was able to

take hyperlocal topics and make them fun and interesting and easy to understand. The

writing was at once narrative and explanatory, but not forced at all. Consistent and strong.

The MinnPost found a good one.

Journalist of the Year

Special Awards

First Place: Chris Serres, Star Tribune

Judge's comments: Deep dives into the complex healthcare industry, with a focus on how

problems affect everyday people. An impressive string ofreports.

Story of the Year

Special Awards

First Place: MPR Newsroom,MPR News

"Betrayed by Silence"

Judge's comments: An outstanding culmination ofa year ofwork that demanded attention

and got action. It's radio reporting at its best.

Best Use ofPublic Records

Special Awards

First Place: Jeffrey Meitrodt, Mike Hughlett, Star Tribune

"Risky Riding"

Judge's commentsThough there was only one entry in this category, that did not detract from

this investigation. It took an issue hiding in plain sight and spelled out the danger in countless

ways. The statistics, anecdotes and writing were impressive.

Silent Auction Sponsors

The following individuals and organizations donated to the 2015 Page One Silent Auction.

All proceeds from the auction benefit MNSPJ's student journalism scholarship fund so our

chapter can assist Minnesota college students who are studying to become ethical,

professional journalists. MNSPJ extends its gratitude to:

Blue Plate Restaurant Co.

Chanhassen Dinner Theater

Icehouse

Lake Superior Magazine

Minneapolis Star Tribune

Minnesota State Fair

Minnesota Public Radio

Minnesota Twins

Minnesota Timberwolves

Minnesota Vikings

Minnesota Wild

MinnPost

MLatino Media

Mpls/St. Paul Magazine

Punch Pizza

Sarah Jane's Music School

St. Paul Saints

Science Museum ofMinnesota

Society ofProfessional Journalists

The Mall ofAmerica

Red Cow

Southwest Journal Co./The Journal

Ward 6

About Minnesota SPJ

Founded as Sigma Delta Chi in 1909, the Society ofProfessional Journal- ists is

the oldest, largest and broadest-based organization of journalists in the U.S.

The Minnesota Chapter was founded in 1956. Chapter membership totals

about 160. In 1998 and 2011 , the Minnesota Pro chapter was named national

large chapter of the year and was one of three finalists in 2014. The chapter has

also been honored for its efforts in FOI advocacy, chapter programming and

member communications.

SPJ provides a wide variety ofprofessional development programming at the

local and national level, including annual national and regional confer- ences as

well as monthly programs sponsored by MN SPJ. Locally and nationally, SPJ is

working hard to ensure a free flow of information, fighting battles for freedom

of information and First Amendment rights.

SPJ promotes excellence in journalism through its local journalism awards

programs, such as the Page One Awards, as well the national Sigma Delta Chi

awards for professional journalists and The Mark ofExcellence awards for

collegiate journalists.

Stay in touch

Learn more about SPJ: http://www.spj.org/

Learn more about MN SPJ: http://www.mnspj.org/

Follow MNSPJ on Twitter: @MNSPJ

Find us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/mnspj

2014-2015 Board ofDirectors

Chris Newmarker, President

Jonathan Kealing, President-elect

Sarah Bauer, Secretary

Anna Pratt, Treasurer and Past-President

Directors:

Ben Garvin

Nick Halter

Nathan Hansen

Kaeti Hinck

Jenna Ross

Christopher Snowbeck

Joe Spear

Visit MN SPJ online:

http://www .mnspj.org/

Become a member today!

http://www.spj.org/join.asp

2015 minnesota spj page one program

Documents

popovich award winnerthe

year student

university ofminnesota

marquette university

itsannual student scholarship

awards banquetmay

life ofpeter popovich

amendment rights