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 of Professional Journalists
Page One Awards Banquet
May 29, 2014
7:00 p.m.
Welcome

Chris Newmarker
MNSPJ Chapter President

Student Scholarships

Presented by Jenna Ross

MN SPJ Board member
Presented to Elizabeth Anderson and
Clara Hatcher

Peter S. Popovich Award

Presented by Dave Aeikens, MN SPJ

Board member
Presented to James Eli Shiffer

President's Award

Presented by Chris Newmarker

MN SPJ Chapter President

Keynote

Gretchen Morgenson
Assistant business and financial editor
The New York Times

Page One Awards Presented Tom Weber, Minnesota Public Radio

Student Scholarship Award Winners

Each year, the Minnesota Society of Professional Journalists board of directors

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 of Minnesota.
Elizabeth Anderson
Elizabeth Anderson is a junior at the University of Minnesota, where she is
working toward a major in journalism and a minor in social justice. She
transferred to Minnesota from the University of Wisconsin-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 exemplifies the fight for First Amendment rights.
The award, MN SPJs most prestigious, honors the life of Peter 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 of Minnesota 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 of Minnesota
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 of Administration,
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 of Media Ethics and Law, School of Journalism & Mass
Communication, University of Minnesota
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 of Wall 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 Olaf College, 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 minnesota.spj@gmail.com.
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

Newspaper - 50,000+ circulation

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

Newspaper - Less than 50,000 circulation

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 of war injuries"

Enterprise/In-Depth

Newspaper - 50,000+ circulation

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

Newspaper - Less than 50,000 circulation

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

Newspaper - 50,000+ circulation

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

Newspaper - Less than 50,000 circulation

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 of Ritsches millions"

Third Place: Mark Sommerhauser, St. Cloud Times
"Pricey VA wind turbines around U.S. remain idle"

Business

Newspaper - 50,000+ circulation

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

Newspaper - Less than 50,000 circulation

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

Newspaper - 50,000+ circulation

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: Playoff drought 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

Newspaper - Less than 50,000 circulation

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

Newspaper - 50,000+ circulation

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 ofmaking music 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: Jeff Baenen, The Associated Press

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

Arts & Entertainment

Newspaper - Less than 50,000 circulation

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

Newspaper - 50,000+ circulation

First Place: Ruben Rosario, St. Paul Pioneer Press
"Survivors Spoke and the Archbishop Listened"

Column

Newspaper - Less than 50,000 circulation

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

Newspaper - 50,000+ circulation

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 picturepainting 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

Newspaper - Less than 50,000 circulation

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

Newspaper - 50,000+ circulation

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

Newspaper - Less than 50,000 circulation

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 of Tim McKee"

Third Place: Dana Croatt, Southwest Journal
"Brought to Light"

Headlines

Newspaper - 50,000+ circulation

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 of wrath"

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

Newspaper - Less than 50,000 circulation

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

Newspaper - 50,000+ circulation

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 ofATV riding, 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 ofM Gopher
coverage to satisfy the most rabid fan.

Best Issue

Newspaper - Less than 50,000 circulation

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 of Tools"

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

Television - 50+ newsroom employees

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

Television - Less than 50 newsroom employees

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

Television - 50+ newsroom employees

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 something more, 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

Television - Less than 50 newsroom employees

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 47 News/KTTC
Newscenter

"First In Flight"

Special Project/In-depth Series

Television - 50+ newsroom employees

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"

Special Project/In-depth Series

Television - Less than 50 newsroom employees

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 of Two Cities: Cleveland and Rochester"

Investigative

Television - 50+ newsroom employees

First Place: Tom Lyden, Brian Wiedeke, KMSP-TV
"Maidens of River 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

Television - Less than 50 newsroom employees

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

Television - 50+ newsroom employees

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

Television - Less than 50 newsroom employees

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"

Special Project/In-depth Series

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: Wendy Wilde, 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"

Arts & Entertainment

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 of Multimedia

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 (using Vine
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 posting March 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 of Wonders

Judge's comments: Winter in the Arrowhead The Radiant North Shore is absolutely jawdropping 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 of Kat 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 of Public 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 of Minnesota
Society of Professional Journalists
The Mall of America
Red Cow
Southwest Journal Co./The Journal
Ward 6

About Minnesota SPJ

Founded as Sigma Delta Chi in 1909, the Society of Professional Journal- ists is
the oldest, largest and broadest-based organization of journalists in the U.S.
The Minnesota Chapter was founded in 1956. Chapter member- ship 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 of professional 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 of Excellence 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 of Directors

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