2019 Winners and Judges’ Comments
NEWSPAPERS DIVISION III:
Multimedia
First Place A solid effort and a textbook example of how (Gulfport) Sun Herald multimedia can expand the story well beyond Anita Lee and Justin Mitchell the printed page. The videos -- hearing the "'Brain drain' on the Coast has voices of millennials for perspective -- and Potential to Get Worse, Experts the graphic showing the hard numbers were Warn. Can it be Fixed?" a great use of resources.
Second Place This report really brought home the impact (Gulfport) Sun Herald of the spillway's opening -- an event that has Anita Lee and Alyssa Newton become the new normal. The video of the "The Power to Open Bonnet Carré oyster farmers gave the issue a personal Spillway Rests 200 Miles from impact, and the video about why the Gulf 'Struggling' Gulf Coast" Coast is powerless -- presenting the history -- was important, too, answering the policy "why".
Features
First Place Baker had a great source with a grisly but (Gulfport) Sun Herald important story to tell. And she made the Margaret Baker most of it, unfolding the story in her own "'There is a way out.' After Cycle voice while making sure that Courtney of Abuse Nearly Killed Her, Coast Schouest's voice was front and center. Woman Shares Her Story." ìI kept thinking he would change,î she said. ìI wanted to believe him. I kept going back. I donít want this to happen to anyone else.î And Baker did the legwork, verifying elements of the story through police reports and text messages Schouest saved. What resulted was a report that has the potential to save lives, to convince women in similar, dire circumstances to take that step and flee a dangerous relationship.
Second Place The breadth of Keith Spera's coverage -- and The Advocate/Times-Picayune/ the power and authority of his voice -- is New Orleans Advocate impressive. He knows the New Orleans music Keith Spera scene -- and its movers and shakers and "New Orleans Music" music makers. Third Place (Gulfport) Sun Herald Justin Mitchell did it all on this story about Justin Mitchell drag queens appearing outside the realm of "'We're just like them.' Meet the gay clubs, in a compelling story, video and Drag Queens Changing Minds and images. Hearts on the Coast"
Breaking News Photography
First Place Captured the urgency in the panicked faces The Advocate/Times-Picayune/ of workers escaping the debris from the New Orleans Advocate collapsed building in the background. Scott Threlkeld "Hard Rock Collapse"
Second Place The number of yellow numbered placards The Advocate/Times-Picayune/ dotting the crime scene showed the enormity New Orleans Advocate of the shooting. The stillness of one David Grunfeld investigator on the sidewalk captured the "NOPD Investigates" solemnity of the crime.
Third Place Captured the sorrow and grief on the (Gulfport) Sun Herald riverbank. Alyssa Newton "Coroner Identifies Three Teens Pulled from Biloxi River After Accidental Drowning"
General News Photography
First Place Great reaction in this photo that captures a The Advocate/Times-Picayune/ moment this young lady will remember for New Orleans Advocate years to come! Smart composition to include Travis Spradling the doctor's reaction as well. "Brees Visit"
Second Place The Advocate/Times-Picayune/ New Orleans Advocate Scott Threlkeld "Family Members React"
Third Place The Advocate/Times- Picayune/New Orleans Advocate Scott Threlkeld "Bad Call"
Feature Photography
First Place Strategic placement of photographer to The Advocate/Times-Picayune/ capture the joy on the kids faces as they New Orleans Advocate jump into the lake -- unicorn intertube and Bill Feig all. "Pond Jump"
Second Place The love and tenderness expressed on the The Advocate/Times-Picayune/ nuns faces is priceless. New Orleans Advocate Brett Duke "Birthday Kiss"
Third Place Nice timing to get the tiger jumping up in the The Advocate/Times-Picayune/ water. New Orleans Advocate Bill Feig "Tiger Reacts"
Sports Feature Photography
First Place Great reactions all around in this photo that The Advocate/Times-Picayune/ captures the heart and spirit of college New Orleans Advocate athletics. David Grunfeld "Home Run Celebration"
Second Place The Advocate/Times-Picayune/ New Orleans Advocate Max Becherer "It's All About the Hair"
Third Place The Advocate/Times-Picayune/ New Orleans Advocate David Grunfeld "Comforting Coach"
Sports Action Photography
First Place Crisp and clean peak action with a great The Advocate/Times-Picayune/ expression to go along with it. Solid sports New Orleans Advocate shooting! Hilary Scheinuk "Airborne"
Second Place The Advocate/Times-Picayune/ New Orleans Advocate Hilary Scheinuk "Safe at Second"
Third Place The Advocate/Times-Picayune/ New Orleans Advocate David Grunfeld "In Your Face"
Breaking Sports
First Place So many voices and so much detail on a The Advocate/Times-Picayune/ tough story told on deadline. Terrific New Orleans Advocate reporting. Wilson Alexander "Steve Ensminger's Strength After Tragic Accident"
Second Place Some really nice background and The Advocate/Times-Picayune/ explanations in here. New Orleans Advocate Brooks Kubena "Hiring of Scott Woodward at LSU"
Third Place Good use of public records request, good The Advocate/Times-Picayune/ context both within the LSU community and New Orleans Advocate the broader NCAA investigation. Bryn Stole "Will Wade Suspended"
Sports Enterprise/Feature
First Place Really clean, simple and interesting The Advocate/Times-Picayune/ explanation of college transfers and how New Orleans Advocate they've evolved. Clean. Brooks Kubena "NCAA Transfer Portal"
Second Place Amazing and impressive number of The Advocate/Times-Picayune/ sources/interviews for this story. New Orleans Advocate Brooks Kubena "Joe Burrow"
Third Place Some really nice color and detail in a well- The Advocate/Times-Picayune/ reported profile. New Orleans Advocate Nathan Brown "The Pelicans' David Griffin"
Personal Columns
First Place Stephanie Grace writes with authority and a The Advocate/Times-Picayune/ great voice. In one of the winning columns, New Orleans Advocate she wrote about President Trump saying: Stephanie Grace "Nobody knew health care could be so complicated." Then she wrote: "Actually, a lot of people knew. Pretty much everyone who had seriously considered the subject - and who understood that providing health benefits that most people want is expensive - knew.".
Editorials
First Place Hard-hitting but conversational writing style The Advocate/Times-Picayune/ to keep the reader engaged. Loved the New Orleans Advocate 'Where's Waldo' approach to one, and the what could money buy approach to a second one. Well done! Second Place The Advocate/Times-Picayune/ New Orleans Advocate
Business
First Place Mary Perez knows that the barrier islands are (Gulfport) Sun Herald important to her readers. She took the Mary Perez opportunity to tell that story, and the story of "Camille Cut is No More. A Look the other islands. Her lede: "It’s time to order at New Changes to the Barrier new signs and update the brochures, because Islands of the Mississippi Coast." for the first time in 50 years, there’s no longer a Camille Cut or an East and West Ship Island."
Second Place Mary Perez also wrote about efforts to save (Gulfport) Sun Herald the historic Saenger Theater in Biloxi, the Mary Perez neglected sibling of grander venues in New "Will Anyone Restore Biloxi's Orleans and Mobile. She chronicled the Saenger Theatre Like They Did in history - it was believed to be Biloxi's first New Orleans and Mobile?" building with air-conditioning - but also the present, addressing the thriving theater community in the area.
Investigative Reporting
First Place In "Louisiana: Polluter's Paradise," The Times- The Advocate/Times-Picayune/ Picayune and The Advocate, with ProPublica, New Orleans Advocate looked at an alarming rise in emissions from "Polluters Paradise" chemical plants and its impact across Louisiana. They found that some of the areas already at high risk will bear the greatest burden of the building boom. The series of stories looked at the issue through macro and micro lenses, from tax incentives that fueled the boom to lax enforcement that made it work. It is a stunning work of journalism, told with breadth, depth and authority.
Second Place John Simerman, Andrea Gallo and Katie The Advocate/Times-Picayune/ Moore told the story of a state Supreme New Orleans Advocate Court justice who was the subject of a five- Andrea Gallo, John Simerman and year FBI probe into his actions in a child- Katie Moore custody case. A tale of twists and turns that "Judge Jeff Hughes" had everything, including two judges named Hughes.
Third Place Margaret Baker doggedly pursued the story (Gulfport) Sun Herald of a state lawmaker arrested on a domestic- Margaret Baker violence charge. She fought for, and won, "Mississippi Lawmaker Was Drunk access to 911 tapes and video footage from When He 'Punched' His Wife in police officers' response to the scene. The the Face Over Sex, Report Says" lawmaker's wife eventually testified on her husband's behalf, resulting in a not-guilty decision, but the judge pointed out that the woman was obviously afraid of her alleged abuser.
Continuing Coverage
First Place After reporting the shooting death of (Gulfport) Sun Herald Patrolman Robert 'Mac' McKeithen, the Sun "Biloxi Officer 'Ambushed' Herald staff was everywhere the story took and Shot to Death Outside them: the manhunt; a solid profile of the of Police Station" officer; an arrest; the funeral; and an interview with a family he helped to save during Hurricane Katrina. The Sun Herald gave its readers every twist and turn of the story, producing photo galleries and videos that parlayed their access to officials who wanted to share the story. A staff of fewer than 10 cranking out story after riveting story to cover an event that tore at their community's heart. Exceptional work. Congratulations.
Second Place "They've survived hurricanes, the Great (Gulfport) Sun Herald Recession, the BP oil spill. But nothing Anita Lee, Mary Perez prepared Mississippi Coast businesses for and Alyssa Newton what happened this year," wrote the Sun "Devastating Effects of the Record Herald, in its exhaustive coverage of the Bonnet Carré Spillway Openings" ecological and economic impact of the Army Corps of Engineers' decision to open the Bonnet Carre spillway, releasing fresh water into the Mississippi Sound. The coverage put a face on the devastation, from oyster farmers and restaurants to deserted local beaches and merchants with no one to buy their souvenirs. The paper also hosted a forum where panelists and readers could voice their concerns. Excellent work and a valuable public service.
Third Place Margaret Baker and Alyssa Newton were all (Gulfport) Sun Herald over the officer-involved shooting. From Margaret Baker breaking the news to following the victim's and Alyssa Newton family's protest to the release of the cop's "Community Questions body camera footage and calls for a wider Fatal Shooting by Moss probe, in text and photos and video, their Point Police Officer" work answered a lot of questions, and raised some, too.
Breaking News
First Place Compelling writing captured the drama of The Advocate/Times-Picayune/ the hotel collapse with residents comparing it New Orleans Advocate to 9/11 and the urgency of trying to get "Catastrophic Collapse" workers out. Strong visuals with package.
Second Place (Gulfport) Sun Herald Good storytelling on main bar about shooting "'Deliberate and Violent Attack.' and suspect. Compelling sidebar profiling the Reward Offered as Police Search dead policeman. for Biloxi Cop's Killer"
NEWSPAPERS DIVISION II:
Multimedia
First Place Very well written, it painted a clear picture. (Thibodaux) Daily Comet The package was well rounded. Halle Parker "Lost Lake"
Second Place Terrific use of infographics, and eye-opening. The (Houma) Courier I like how a local concern was painted into "Car Insurance Costs" the broad national conversation.
Third Place Great attention to the concern of preserving The (Houma) Courier local and fragile traditions. Halle Parker "Camp Teaches Pride"
Features
First Place A great example of how a reporter's curiosity The (Lafayette) Advertiser can turn an oddity into a captivating tale. Victoria Dodge Nicely done. "Targeting Nutria"
Second Place The (Lafayette) Advertiser Andrew Yawn "Louisiana's Native Son Leads LSU"
Third Place The (Lafayette) Acadiana Advocate Claire Taylor "Theater Survivor"
Breaking News Photography
First Place Excellent work. Poignant images. The variety The (Lafayette) Acadiana of images was a pleasure to review. This Advocate package was a real service to the paper's Leslie Westbrook readers. "St. Landry Parish Church Fires"
Second Place This is a strong second place finisher. The (Tupelo) Daily Journal expression on the firefighter's face, the Adam Robison tones, and the slight glow in the upper right "American Furniture Fire" make this a image with drama and humanity.
Third Place Really showed the reader the event. The (Lafayette) Advertiser Scott Clause "Lafayette Plane Crash"
General News Photography
First Place Emotion wins! This could have been a rather The Meridian Star average event, but the photographer was Paula Merritt aware and gave the reader the whole reason "Caitlin's Cancer Battle" for the event to take place---compassion.
Second Place Difficult event, came back with a image (Tupelo) Daily Journal detailing the controversy. Thomas Wells "Protest Over Chancellor Choice"
Third Place Sweet image nicely played. The Meridian Star Paula Merritt "Burgers and Barks"
Feature Photography
First Place This is such a wonderful, timeless photo. It The Meridian Star truly captures the warmth, laughter and Paula Merritt friendship of these two women. It's hard not "Easter Blessings" to smile when you see this photo. Adding their childhood photo was a nice touch, too. Congratulations!
Second Place This is an amazing photo. It looks like two The (Lafayette) Acadiana birds are dancing, while the other is looking Advocate on. It shows movement and is captivating at Leslie Westbrook the same time. "Woodpecker at Play"
Third Place The details in this photo are simply (Tupelo) Daily Journal wonderful. There's so much to look at, from Thomas Wells the mirrored image to the intensity of the "Cleaning the Windows" man working. Great job.
Sports Feature Photography
First Place It takes patience to catch such a nice (Tupelo) Daily Journal moment. Good job. Thomas Wells "Game Winner"
Second Place Nice composition. The (Lafayette) Acadiana Advocate Leslie Westbrook "Hit the Target"
Third Place Good job catching the essence for this The (Lafayette) Acadiana victory. Advocate Brad Kemp "Kiss of Happiness"
Sports Action Photography
First Place Great action shot. The (Lafayette) Advertiser Scott Clause "Rodeo Night"
Second Place This prize is being awarded to the image of The (Lafayette) Advertiser the coach jumping in the air. Nice job Scott Clause capturing that moment. "High School Basketball Championships"
Third Place Well done action shot. (Tupelo) Daily Journal Adam Robison "Diving Over"
Breaking Sports
First Place The (Lafayette) Acadiana Advocate Kevin Foote "Tony Robichaux"
Second Place The (Lafayette) Advertiser "LSU SEC Champions"
Third Place (Thibodaux) Daily Comet Mike Gegenheimer "Disastrous Start Sparks Dominant Win for Wildcats"
Sports Enterprise/Feature
First Place This is the kind of reporting that holds The Meridian Star decision-makers accountable. It clearly Elton Hayes outlines the disparity between educators and "Meridian Football Coaching coaches. Extremely well-reported and well- Salary in League of its Own" written.
Second Place Great watchdog journalism and follow-up on The Meridian Star a tragedy. Matt Case "High-Risk Horse Racing"
Third Place Beautiful profile of a player who almost The Meridian Star certainly went unheralded and unnoticed Drew Kerekes throughout her athletic career. Good eye to "Servant Leadership" recognize a story there.
Personal Columns
First Place Nicely written columns that use personal (Tupelo) Daily Journal experience to share musings on moral and W. Derek Russell community issues. It's not easy to balance to achieve, but Derek Russell does so with heart and humor. Second Place The (Houma) Courier Kelly McElroy
Third Place The (Houma) Courier Mike Gegeneheimer
Editorials
First Place Kieffer writes with authority, flair and bite. In (Tupelo) Daily Journal clear, conversational language, Kieffer Chris Kieffer explains the "why" of concepts, such as equal treatment under the law and the role of journalists in a democracy. Editorials have a clear call to action.
Second Place These editorials show Bohrer's versatility and The Meridian Star emotional intelligence. It was refreshing to Dave Bohrer see an uplifting editorial that celebrates a person's achievement.
Third Place The editorial's slow burn at the struggles of (Lake Charles) American Press the working poor builds to a call to elected Marlisa Harding officials who seem not to notice or care. Harding delivers a crafty bit of writing in a small package.
Business
First Place A winner from concept to execution. Daigle The (Lafayette) Acadiana digs into the data (and even commissions a Advocate study) to explore why young, college- Adam Daigle educated people are leaving Louisiana. He "Leaving Louisiana" layers on engaging stories about people who left the state for better opportunities, giving local policymakers clues to what's missing.
Second Place After a layoff, Wyatt taps sources inside and The (Lafayette) Acadiana outside of the company to report details it Advocate wants to keep secret. She writes Megan Wyatt authoritatively about the company's perilous "Waiter Layoffs Strike Again - financial condition. Fine work on deadline. Company to Pull Out of Low- Performing Markets"
Third Place Seid brings a big national/international story (Tupelo) Daily Journal home. His reporting is well-rounded, showing Dennis Seid how furniture tariffs are affecting "Furniture Manufacturers, manufacturers, dealers and consumers in the Retailers Eye Impact of Tariffs" community.
Investigative Reporting
First Place This strong examination of a jailhouse failure The (Lafayette) Acadiana combines an admirable drive for public Advocate records, human emotion and smart voices of Ben Myers authority. "Acadia Jails"
Second Place An appalling example of favoritism gets (Tupelo) Daily Journal pulled out into the public light. Reporter's Caleb Bedillion and William Moore savvy with public records and tenacity pay "Supervisor's 2018 DUI Arrest off. It's revealing to watch the officials Hidden from Public Eye" squirm.
Continuing Coverage
First Place This entry had a competitive version also in The (Lafayette) Acadiana consideration. Both were strong and Advocate Lafayette benefits from two newspapers Katie Gagliano serving it. This version wove a journey better "Church Fires" I think overall, easing out the reveals in a more exciting way, integrating unconnected international events more deftly.
Second Place Well done courtroom unfolding rich with (Lake Charles) American Press great comments and detail. You could feel Lisa Addison the emotions of the officer's family and "Trooper Steven Vincent friends. Murder Trial"
Third Place Very comprehensive and expertly navigated - (Tupelo) Daily Journal a topic that could all too easily become mired Caleb Bedillion and William Moore in tedious detail. "Rush to Judgment: State's Public Defense System Poses Constitutional Crisis"
General News
First Place A compelling scene, powerful quotes and a The (Lafayette) Acadiana well-reported case history of this developer Advocate gave this story all the elements needed to Ben Myers make it an engaging read. The narrative "Youngsville Subdivision" technique of recounting the dialogue in an unexpected encounter with the developer strengthened the storyline. And revealing the developers past history with law enforcement really drove it all home. Well done. Second Place This is a unique issue with nice storytelling The (Lafayette) Advertiser and revealing data about what makes these Andrew Yawn laws different than the rest of the country. "Challenging Louisiana's Hair Now, I want to know if laws were changed as Braiding Rules" a result of this reporting.
Third Place A powerful lede as a way to bring a reader (Tupelo) Daily Journal into to an important issue. Danny McArthur "Whether 2008 or 2019, Immigration Raids Leave Lasting Impact"
Breaking News
First Place The (Lafayette) Acadiana Advocate staff did a The (Lafayette) Acadiana good job gathering information quickly and Advocate clearly, so that the reader had a deeper "Plane Crash in Lafayette" understanding of not only what happened but the people impacted by this tragedy. By adding vivid description of the scene, as described by witnesses, also captivated the reader.
Second Place The reporter did a great job of setting the (Tupelo) Daily Journal scene and telling a story, not just stating the Caleb Bedillion facts. "Tornado Recovery Efforts Get Underway"
Third Place This series of stories is a great example of the The (Lafayette) Advertiser way journalists break news and continue to Ashley White and Erik Hall develop a story. "Lafayette Plane Crash"
NEWSPAPER DIVISION I:
Features
First Place Good piece. Humanizes a serious problem in Jackson Free Press the Mississippi justice system and why a Seyma Bayram reader needs to pay attention. "Long Sentences, Broken Lives"
Second Place Nice piece that illustrates why Nipsey Hussle Jackson Free Press was important to local musicians. Aliyah Veal "More Love Than Hate: Rappers' Deaths Sobering, Yet Inspirational"
Third Place A solid feature with beautiful, well-chosen A1 (McComb) Enterprise-Journal photos. Lots of voices, good first quote that Gabriel Perry grabs, explains the vibe. Good pacing. "Redeemed"
Breaking News Photography
First Place Great breaking news photo that shows what (McComb) Enterprise-Journal happened and what is being done to put out Matt Williamson the fire. Straight forward photo that tells the "Fire Damages McComb Home" story.
Second Place (McComb) Enterprise-Journal Matt Williamson "Dusting Off"
Third Place (McComb) Enterprise-Journal Matt Williamson "Gunmen Wanted"
General News Photography
First Place The clarity on the ejected shell casing and the (McComb) Enterprise-Journal expressions on the faces of Honor Guard Matt Williamson combine to make this a winner. "Relieved of Duty"
Second Place Photographer was ready to capture just the (Corinth) Daily Corinthian right moment in a tense courtroom. Gabby Boyd "Child Abuser Gets Life Sentence - Victim's Family Photo"
Third Place Nice moment captured during this visit. (McComb) Enterprise-Journal Matt Williamson "First Lady Visits"
Feature Photography
First Place Her hair looks alive. Excellent timing. (McComb) Enterprise-Journal Matt Williamson "Jammin' the Rock"
Second Place Nice capture of an emotional moment. (McComb) Enterprise-Journal Gabriel Perry "Redeemed"
Third Place Background blur gives this photo motion, (McComb) Enterprise-Journal which makes it work. Matt Williamson "Gearheads Gather"
Sports Feature Photography
First Place The emotion in this photo draws me in (McComb) Enterprise-Journal immediately and makes me want to turn the Matt Williamson page. "Hero Dash: No Place for Wimps"
Second Place (McComb) Enterprise-Journal Great photo that tells a story on its own. Matt Williamson "Hero Dash Punishes Racers"
Third Place The (Hammond) Daily Star Andrew Smith "Veteran"
Sports Action Photography
First Place Clear, crisp photo that shows the physicality (McComb) Enterprise-Journal of the game. Travis Connelley "Bears Win Again"
Second Place (McComb) Enterprise-Journal Travis Connelley "SMCC Shows Off at Bear Madness"
Third Place The (Hammond) Daily Star Caleb Lay "Jump Ball"
Breaking Sports
First Place I liked the quotes the writer was able to get (McComb) Enterprise-Journal from the source and his father. He tied the Travis Connelley national story back to the community. "Quin Stepping Away"
Second Place (McComb) Enterprise-Journal Travis Connelley "Have a Night, Zavion"
Third Place The (Hammond) Daily Star Caleb Lay "Hammond Tors Win Homecoming"
Sports Enterprise/Feature
First Place I really enjoyed reading this piece. From start The Oxford Eagle to finish the story kept me engaged. I love Nathanael Gabler the different perspective each person "Doug Nikhazy Brings a Unique interviewed added to the story. You really Energy to Ole Miss Baseball" got a sense of who this player was and what set them apart from everyone else on the team.
Second Place This story looked beyond just the end of a The Oxford Eagle season. It looked at a core group of players "Last Rebel Stand: Super that have played the sport they love together Regional Closed a Decade-Old for over a decade. The quotes and the Run for a Trio of Former emotion in them really helped drive this story Oxford Teammates" and made you want to keep reading.
Third Place I mean it's about alligators, what's not to (McComb) Enterprise-Journal love. Ernest Herndon "Couples Bond Over Hunting Giant Alligators"
Personal Columns
First Place A nice mix of local issues and personal (McComb) Enterprise-Journal reflection. A fluid writing style. Jack Ryan
Second Place Strong voice on important topics. Jackson Free Press Donna Ladd
Third Place Good mix of topics. (McComb) Enterprise-Journal Ernest Herndon
Editorials
First Place Strong commentary on a variety of topics, (McComb) Enterprise-Journal written well. Jack Ryan
Business
First Place Well-researched..pulls reader in and covers a Jackson Free Press lot of ground. Seyma Bayram "A Colorful Past: Can the Sun-N-Sand Be Saved?"
Second Place Great color...local quotes. (McComb) Enterprise-Journal Ernest Herndon "Granny's Cornered"
Third Place Informative...made fairly dense topic (McComb) Enterprise-Journal digestible. Gabriel Perry "Oil Leases Difficult to Turn Down"
Investigative Reporting
First Place Ashton Pittman's expansive look at Jackson Free Press Mississippi Gov. Phil Bryant's ties to the Ashton Pittman Brexit movement (and the Trump "God Save the Governor: administration) starts with a tantalizing Phil Bryant, Brexit Soldier" anecdote. Prince Charles encounters the governor in Buckingham Palace and, upon learning who he is, asks: "What on earth are you doing here?" Pittman then goes on to explain, in exhaustive detail, the governor's ties to those inside the Brexit and Trump campaigns. A fascinating read.
Continuing Coverage
First Place Good job going beyond official statements (McComb) Enterprise-Journal about this tragic case by talking to neighbors Matt Williamson and Gopika Nair and relatives. "Ericka Hall Killing"
Second Place An expansive look at many different angles of Jackson Free Press a frustrating and scary situation. Ashton Pittman "Mississippi ICE Raids, Before and After"
Third Place Shows persistence in following the (McComb) Enterprise-Journal developments stemming from the original Ernest Herndon complaint. and Matt Williamson "McDaniel-Cain Election Dispute"
General News
First Place A strong presentation of the facts and case (McComb) Enterprise-Journal against the accused, alongside the unknown, Matt Williamson yet sought. "We Both Did It"
Second Place Enjoyed this story of a man who doesn't (McComb) Enterprise-Journal appear to have much in the way of rights and Ernest Herndon protections on his own land. "A Crude Situation"
Third Place This piece tells a compelling story of the Jackson Free Press potential struggle women in Mississippi could Ashton Pittman once again face. "Mississippi: The Battleground for Roe v. Wade's Future?"
Breaking News
First Place Nice art...good use of witnesses...great spot (McComb) Enterprise-Journal news. Gabriel Perry "Shooting in Tylertown"
Second Place Good timing and good background. Jackson Free Press Ashton Pittman "White Supremacists Caught at Emmett Till Memorial Making Propaganda Film"
Third Place Great quotes and solid coverage. (McComb) Enterprise-Journal "Devastated"
PROFESSIONAL TV DIVISION I:
Multimedia
First Place This is utterly brilliant. The story, the layout, KSLA-TV, Shreveport the photos, all stunning. The four months of Blane Skiles research paid off in a big way. I knew who "The Trip to Shreveport that Left Sam Cooke was, I knew and loved the song. Sam Cooke Hoping for a Change" Heck, I spent a large majority of my life in Louisiana. But I had no idea the connection between the man, city and song. It was an amazing look back into a much dark time in our country. A time when even a celebrity like Cooke could be treated unfairly simply due to the color of his skin. I think there is even more here. The topic is so strong, I would love to see a mini documentary.
Second Place Great headline/title and it grabbed me right WWL-TV, New Orleans away. It revealed a situation that happens far David Hammer, Kevin Dupuy and too often. This is great journalism, plain and T.J. Pipitone simple. Uncover a problem faced by "Stench of Failure" readers/viewers, tell a story about a complex problem in an easy-to-understand way and offer the viewers answers. I really liked the companion piece -- the explainer about draining gases and liquid from landfills. Great use of crowd sourcing on the smell map. It really showed the impact on the neighborhoods.
Third Place Great investigative piece by the two solid WVUE-TV, New Orleans groups. I really liked the layout used to tell Cody Lillich the story. I also liked the dichotomy the two "Empty Field of Dreams" communities facing a similar problem, each with different outcomes. I thought it was well done all around. I would have loved to hear more from the woman who made $200,000 to leave an empty field.
Feature - Louisiana
First Place This entry demonstrates the art of WWL-TV, New Orleans storytelling -- through a compelling Karen Swensen and Derek Waldrip construction of video and sound -- creating "Miracle Baby" an emotional rise-and-fall -- that feels bingeworthy.
Second Place Sometimes, a good story is a good story. This WWL-TV, New Orleans entry proves that great features aren't always Erika Ferrando long-form or more than a day-turn. Clever "Decorated Potholes" writing, great characters, and a unique peg create a recipe for success.
Third Place A fun entry that made me want to get to WVUE-TV, New Orleans know the man behind the wheel -- but, Nancy Parker perhaps not while the keys are in the and Lance Washington ignition. "Easy Rider"
Feature - Mississippi
First Place WJTV-TV, Jackson Byron Brown and Eric Bullard "Convicting Klansmen"
Second Place WJTV-TV, Jackson Walt Grayson "Blue Front Cafe"
Third Place WLBT-TV, Jackson Roslyn Anderson and Jerome DeLoach "Sugarman"
News Videographer
First Place KTBS-TV, Shreveport Rick Rowe
Second Place WWL-TV, New Orleans Brian Lukas "Art Neville: Music Legend"
Third Place WWL-TV, New Orleans Adam Copus
Sports Story
First Place What a great tear-jerker. Writing was cleaver KSLA-TV, Shreveport and fit to the video. The 911 call from 18 Doug Warner years ago was incredible. "Brently's Dream"
Second Place Terrific use of NATS, and a good stand-up. WDSU-TV, New Orleans Sharief Ishaq "Macy Chaisson: A Fighter's Story"
Third Place I loved these kids! Good NATS and shots. WVUE-TV, New Orleans Meg Gatto and Kia Callia "Young Bucks"
High School Football Program
First Place Great presentation with NATS package to WAFB-TV, Baton Rouge start the show, SOTs from coaches and "Sportsline Friday Nite" energy throughout.
Second Place Good energy on highlights. I liked the KTBS-TV, Shreveport creativity of getting interviews any way Alex Anderson and Daniel Brown possible. "Friday Football Fever"
Third Place WVUE-TV, New Orleans "Football Friday"
Sports Anchor
First Place Fletcher won me over with his entertaining WDSU-TV, New Orleans on-camera presence. He was self-deprecating Fletcher Mackel by pulling up an old tweet, and there's more to his anchoring than just hard sports content. He makes watching fun. Second Place WVUE-TV, New Orleans Juan Kincaid
Breaking Weather
First Place WAFB-TV, Baton Rouge "Tracking Barry"
Second Place WVUE-TV, New Orleans "Hurricane Barry"
Third Place WAFB-TV, Baton Rouge "December Liberty Tornadoes"
Weather Anchor
First Place WAFB-TV, Baton Rouge Steve Caparotta
Second Place KSLA-TV, Shreveport Jeff Castle
Third Place WVUE-TV, New Orleans David Bernard
Investigative Reporting
First Place WVUE-TV, New Orleans Lee Zurik and Jon Turnipseed "Unexcused Absence"
Second Place WWL-TV, New Orleans Mike Perlstein and T.J. Pipitone "Highway Robbery"
Third Place WAFB-TV, Baton Rouge Kiran Chawla and Robert Hollins "Selling Assessments"
Special Report - Louisiana
First Place WVUE-TV, New Orleans Lee Zurik and Jon Turnipseed "Unexcused Absence"
Second Place WVUE-TV, New Orleans Lee Zurik, Jon Turnipseed and Cody Lillich "Empty Field of Dreams"
Third Place WVUE-TV, New Orleans Lee Zurik, Jon Turnipseed and Cody Lillich "The Cost of Choice"
Special Report - Mississippi
First Place Hit on all pistons. Good reporting. Good WLBT-TV, Jackson writing. Good shooting and editing. And a Cheryl Lasseter and Wesley Harris good on-camera presence and delivery by the "Social Studies" reporter. Important topic handled well!
Second Place This reporter picked wonderful interviewees. WDBD-TV, Jackson Those interviews were showcased through Symphonie Privett good writing and a great delivery. And the and Karlos Sanders use of photos and archival video worked "The Women in Civil Rights" wonderfully.
Third Place I appreciated the effort. This reporter did not WDBD-TV, Jackson hang out in an air-conditioned office and do Melissa Faith Payne interviews via Skype. She got out there and and Karlos Sanders showed the viewers something unique. "Yazoo Backwater Flood Effects" Bravo.
Continuing Coverage
First Place Great investigative piece spanning a WVUE-TV, New Orleans substantial period of time that strikes a chord Cody Lillich, Jon Turnipseed with anyone who has ever given to a cause and Lee Zurik only to see the cause ultimately fail. "Empty Field of Dreams"
Second Place Solid and compelling coverage over a period WAFB-TV, Baton Rouge of several days of a horrific case. "Ascension Livingston Rampage"
Third Place WDSU-TV, New Orleans "Hard Rock Hotel Collapse"
General News - Louisiana
First Place The pacing in the beginning really draws you WAFB-TV, Baton Rouge in and gradually reveals the story and Matt Houston characters. Well done. Good variety of and Derron Daquano moments. "Liberty Tornado Damage"
Second Place Amazing character. And good way to reveal WWL-TV, New Orleans the second part of the story with the police Erika Ferrando officer. "A Lift to Work Lifts Spirits"
Third Place WAFB-TV, Baton Rouge Matt Houston and Rick Portier "Church Fire Arrest"
General News - Mississippi
First Place Such a strong opening SOT. Grabs so much WLBT-TV, Jackson emotion right away. Creative variety of Patrice Clark shooting. Good job taking the issue that "Eagle Lake Residents affects many people and personalizing it with Denied FEMA Aid" the one couple.
Second Place WLBT-TV, Jackson Courtney Ann Jackson and Jerome DeLoach "Confederate Statue Protest"
Third Place WLBT-TV, Jackson Patrice Clark "Teacher of the Year Killed"
Breaking News
First Place WAFB-TV, Baton Rouge "Sadie Roberts-Joseph"
Second Place WJTV-TV, Jackson Alex Love, LeKeitha Terrell and Tim Schwaegler "Holly Bluff Gas Station Fire"
Third Place WDSU-TV, New Orleans Taylor Walker, Amanda Valdin and Travers Mackel "Canal Street Mass Shooting"
TV Reporter
First Place KSLA-TV, Shreveport Stacey Cameron
Second Place KTBS-TV, Shreveport Jamie Ostroff
Third Place WDSU-TV, New Orleans Travers Mackel
News Anchor
First Place KSLA-TV, Shreveport Adria Goins
Second Place WVUE-TV, New Orleans Liz Reyes
Third Place WAFB-TV, Baton Rouge Elizabeth Vowell
Achievement-Louisiana
First Place Great story-excellent writing graphics, editing WVUE-TV, New Orleans and sources that are very compelling. Lee Zurik, Jon Turnipseed and Cody Lillich "Empty Field of Dreams"
Second Place Impressive investigation reel and great story WAFB-TV, Baton Rouge on the fiddle fixer and the former anchor.
Achievement - Mississippi
First Place The selection of stories portrayed the subject WJTV-TV, Jackson matter well. The quality of the reporting "Focused on Solutions: really shined through. This entry shows how The Crime Crisis" well a news team can work together.
Second Place WJTV-TV, Jackson Candace Coleman, Opie Cooper and Kaitlin Howell "Cool Schools Special"
Third Place JSU-TV, Jackson Eric Walker "Mississippi's Historic ICE Raid"
Newscast - Louisiana
First Place WAFB-TV, Baton Rouge
Second Place WVUE-TV, New Orleans Caitlin Dwyer
Third Place WAFB-TV, Baton Rouge
Newscast - Mississippi
First Place WLBT-TV, Jackson Emily Caballero and Mark Little
PROFESSIONAL TV DIVISION II:
Multimedia
First Place WLOX-TV, Biloxi-Gulfport "McKeithen Death Coverage"
Second Place KATC-TV, Lafayette "The LIST"
Third Place KPLC-TV, Lake Charles Jillian Corder, Johnathan Manning and Cindy Choi
Feature - Louisiana
First Place KATC-TV, Lafayette Daniel Phillips, David Hilbun and Justin Terro "Out of the Shadows"
Second Place KALB-TV, Alexandria Rachael Penton and Ben Gauthier "Wiley Cattle Ranch"
Third Place KALB-TV, Alexandria Brooke Buford "10-Year-Old Piano Prodigy"
Feature - Mississippi
First Place Long awaited validation for this individual. WLOX-TV, Biloxi-Gulfport Great use of scene shots, NATs sounds and Hugh Keeton graphic editing. Very much a human-interest "UFO Witnesses" story with unique characters telling their story.
Second Place Finding a great character to show others WLOX-TV, Biloxi-Gulfport what love and caring is all about. Very nicely Desirae Duncan presented. Ted shows how important is to "South Mississippi Strong: help others in our community. Ted Hearn"
Third Place Inspirational story for young and old alike. WLOX-TV, Biloxi-Gulfport Sully teaches determination and inspiration Hugh Keeton with his love of music. Good script. "Sully Sings"
News Videographer
First Place WLOX-TV, Biloxi-Gulfport Tristan Ruppert
Second Place KATC-TV, Lafayette Justin Terro
Third Place KALB-TV, Alexandria Ben Gauthier
Sports Story
First Place Very well told. An amazing use of video and KNOE-TV, Monroe some outstanding sound made this story flow Aaron Dietrich and move. A very nice job in a very tough "A Survivor's Story" field of stories. Loved the story and your use of all the elements in it to express it to your viewers. Congratulations on a well-earned victory.
Second Place Such a wonderful job of using sound that KATC-TV, Lafayette truly reflected who this man was on and off Seth Lewis the field. Coaches are often hard and tough "Remembering Tony Robichaux" men and women and you showed his caring side in a very nice way. Congratulations on a great story.
Third Place This story had some great sound to work with WCBI-TV, Columbus-Tupelo and such a great story to tell. Very nice job in Courtney Robb and Chris Bolton showing your viewers this touching story and "Gone But Not Forgotten" how #11 carries a lot more weight when you're chosen to wear it. Well done.
High School Football Program
First Place Solid production quality inside and outside KNOE-TV, Monroe studio. Had a thorough set of detailed Aaron Dietrich highlights. Content presented with energy "Friday Night Blitz" and camaraderie. Good use of nats/sots that kept the block moving forward.
Second Place Solid anchor presentation with energy. Easy- WLOX-TV, Biloxi-Gulfport to-follow script with well-shot video. "Friday Night Football Showdown" Interesting field package/reports. Good use of reporters and set.
Third Place Anchor team showcased solid well-shot WTOK-TV, Meridian content with ease and authority. "Football Friday" Presentation had good energy and scripts were easy to follow. Ad-libbing and teases flowed well with script and into break.
Sports Anchor
First Place Outstanding creativity. Showed great WLOX-TV, Biloxi-Gulfport presence on the desk and good story telling. Josh Berrian
Second Place Excellent story teller. KNOE-TV, Monroe Aaron Dietrich
Third Place Solid anchor and reporter. KATC-TV, Lafayette Andrew Clay
Breaking Weather
First Place Great use of the extra help from other KATC-TV, Lafayette stations in showcasing the teams LIVE in the "Hurricane Barry" field as Barry moved in. Well-rounded coverage from breaking weather to including your viewer's photos and videos. Bonus points for lightening up the mood at the end, much needed in this type of situation.
Second Place Excellent live coverage by weather dept. and KALB-TV, Alexandria news staff as the storm was still ripping "Alexandria's December Tornado" through. Great consistency among the graphical elements and using a tagline to remember 'After the storm'. This coverage was well-produced and comprehensive.
Third Place Excellent stacking of tornado aftermath 10p KNOE-TV, Monroe show. All of the stories flowed well into one "Ruston Tornado" another. Great use of tags and breakout information. Emotional stories shined among the coverage, great storytelling.
Weather Anchor
First Place Wesley was very conversational and WLOX-TV, Biloxi-Gulfport comfortable on air. Wesley Williams
Second Place Eric was very conversational and comfortable WLOX-TV, Biloxi-Gulfport on air. Eric Jeansonne
Third Place Rob's energy made his weather segments KATC-TV, Lafayette engaging. Rob Perillo
Investigative Reporting
First Place Very Thorough! Good team effort. KATC-TV, Lafayette "The LIST"
Second Place Good use of documents. KALB-TV, Alexandria Brooke Buford and Mark Klein "Arrested Again"
Third Place Good use of 9-1-1 calls! KNOE-TV, Monroe "Bastrop OIS"
Special Report - Louisiana
First Place KALB-TV, Alexandria Brooke Buford, Ben Gauthier and Mark Klein "Bobby Blair Cold Case"
Second Place KPLC-TV, Lake Charles Cynthia Arceneaux and Caleb LaFleur "Battle Over Teacher Pay Raises"
Third Place KATC-TV, Lafayette "The LIST"
Special Report - Mississippi
First Place WLOX-TV, Biloxi-Gulfport Alison Spann "Teen Gun Violence in Gulfport"
Second Place WLOX-TV, Biloxi-Gulfport John Fitzhugh "403rd Illness Special Report"
Third Place WDAM-TV, Hattiesburg Patrick Bigbie "2013 Tornado Anniversary"
Continuing Coverage
First Place KNOE-TV, Monroe "Ruston Tornado"
Second Place WLOX-TV, Biloxi-Gulfport "I-10 Standoff"
Third Place KATC-TV, Lafayette "St. Landry Parish Church Arsons"
General News - Louisiana
First Place The level of quality storytelling in this piece KALB-TV, Alexandria should be applauded. The viewer is Rachael Penton and Ben Gauthier immediately drawn in with the use of nat "Tornado Recovery Day Three" sound, strong and creative video shots and a human approach to introducing the characters. The transitions were pulled off perfectly and the pacing was on point. I'm impressed at how polished and tight this piece is with a producer-friendly TRT.
Second Place This is real journalism. Chandler captured KPLC-TV, Lake Charles both sides of the issue, presented the facts Chandler Watkins and let the viewer form their own opinion on "Village of Fenton Bans Pit Bulls" the matter. It's apparent she managed her time well to pull of a complex story on deadline.
Third Place Talk about top-notch content. This segment KATC-TV, Lafayette shows a great amount of teamwork to pull "Remembering Governor off. The creative editing was refreshing. I like Kathleen Blanco" how the pieces showcased what a multi- faceted person Blanco was when she was alive. This is a prime example of how to expand on one event while taking viewers on an informative journey during the newscast.
General News - Mississippi
First Place Great piece on an ongoing situation. Good WDAM-TV, Hattiesburg interview about the children left behind due Jeffrey Morgan to the raid. Very informative to viewers. "Bay Springs ICE Raids"
Second Place WTOK-TV, Meridian Nicholas Brooks "Barrett Sentenced to 25 Years in 2017 Killing"
Third Place WTOK-TV, Meridian Tom Williams "Fish Camp Owner Concerned as Tombigbee River Floods"
Breaking News
First Place Amazing coverage from start to finish of this WLOX-TV, Biloxi-Gulfport story. Excellent breaking coverage on-air and "Officer McKeithen on social media. Every part pushes the story Shooting Death" forward with continuous updates. Excellent work.
Second Place Great use of crews LIVE in the field as well as KATC-TV, Lafayette the weather team in-house. The coverage "Hurricane Barry" provided much-needed condition updates to viewers who are at home trying to understand what's going on. Well done.
Third Place Excellent live coverage by the weather team KNOE-TV, Monroe as the storm was strengthening. Great "Ruston Tornado" follow-up coverage of the damage and community reaction as well. Overall, well- orchestrated coverage.
TV Reporter
First Place The Catholic story was done amazingly. I KATC-TV, Lafayette loved the walk-up intro, interview setting and Jim Hummel the station list.
Second Place Great blend of you in the story as the face of KALB-TV, Alexandria the station but not the story. Brooke Buford
Third Place I appreciate the transitions. I admire the WLOX-TV, Biloxi-Gulfport effort and ingenuity. Tristan Ruppert
News Anchor
First Place KNOE-TV, Monroe Tyler Smith
Second Place KPLC-TV, Lake Charles Shelby Trahan
Third Place WLOX-TV, Biloxi-Gulfport Alison Spann
Achievement-Louisiana
First Place The investigative work sets KATC apart. KATC-TV, Lafayette
Second Place Strong array of coverage. KNOE-TV, Monroe
Third Place The story about the teacher who saved kids KALB-TV, Alexandria from the tornado is heart-stopping. Mark Klein "Golden Apple"
Achievement - Mississippi
First Place It was anything but great TV... but it was WCBI-TV, Columbus-Tupelo great TV. Watching the aftermath of a Mary Carroll Sullivan, Sydney tornado from makeshift Facebook Live studio Franklin and Joey Barnes is strangely riveting. Bravo.
Second Place Ambitious project, nicely conceived and WXXV-TV, Gulfport edited. Jeffrey Haeger
Third Place Strong, solid coverage throughout a powerful WLOX-TV, Biloxi-Gulfport story. "Officer McKeithen Shooting Death"
Newscast - Louisiana
First Place KATC-TV, Lafayette
Second Place KALB-TV, Alexandria Steven Maxwell, Brooke Buford and Anna Barrett
Third Place KNOE-TV, Monroe
Newscast - Mississippi
First Place WLOX-TV, Biloxi-Gulfport
Second Place WLOX-TV, Biloxi-Gulfport
Third Place WLOX-TV, Biloxi-Gulfport
PROFESSIONAL RADIO:
Multimedia
First Place Very touching... edited well. WCKK-FM/WLIN-FM, Kosciusko "Cruisin' for a Cure"
Second Place WCKK-FM/WLIN-FM, Kosciusko Very creative and cute idea. Breck Riley "A Hero Comes Home"
Third Place KEDM-FM, Monroe This is always a hot topic. Cory Crowe "President Donald Trump Visits Monroe"
Short Feature Story
First Place Fabulous use of natural sound throughout Mississippi Public Broadcasting, the piece. Nice editing. Great storytelling. Jackson Ezra Wall "Volunteers Help Reeling Migrant Families Make Ends Meet"
Second Place Loved the natural sound used to open the Mississippi Public Broadcasting, piece. Soundbite of Evers really evoked Jackson emotion. Well chosen! Ashley Norwood "Evers Home Added to a List of National Civil Rights Sites"
Third Place WCKK-FM/WLIN-FM, Kosciusko Nice use of natural sound and music Mina Mooney and Breck Riley throughout the piece! "2019 Mississippi Songwriter of the Year"
Long Feature Story
First Place A nice look the controversy over Confederate Mississippi Public Broadcasting, Memorial Day and Confederate monuments Jackson and statues. Piece had great natural sound Ashley Norwood and great sound bites multiple points of view. "Mississippians at Odds Over Great storytelling. Confederate Holiday"
Second Place One of the interview subjects is right: This is Mississippi Public Broadcasting, an important story that hasn't gotten Jackson national attention. Great job of showing how Alexandra Watts the flooding is affecting different types of "'It just keeps getting worse.' people. I felt their despair in these Delta Flooding Still a Concern" interviews. Would have like a little more about what is causing the issue.
Third Place A multiple source-look on the effort to brand WMSV-FM mainstream journalism as "Fake News," Terry Likes when "fake" merely means news you don't "Fake News Blues: A Credibility agreed with. Nice look at what the siren call Crisis for Journalism.' The Impact of "Fake News" may be doing to trust in of Fake News Allegations on news. Media Organizations and Audience Trust."
Use of Sound
First Place In one short news report this entry conveyed WCKK-FM/WLIN-FM, Kosciusko the excitement and diversity of a lively Breck Riley community event. "Veterans Day Aisle of Honor"
Second Place This entry allowed us to listen in on a WCKK-FM/WLIN-FM, Kosciusko delightful moment in the reunion of a soldier Breck Riley and his daughter. "A Hero Comes Home"
Third Place Fake News Blues effectively illustrated the WMSV-FM complexity of a central issue in our times, Terry Likes using many soundbites from a wide range of "Fake News Blues: A Credibility sources. Crisis for Journalism.' The Impact of Fake News Allegations on Media Organizations and Audience Trust."
Sports Story
First Place A nice show with the hosts sharing their KPEL-FM, Lafayette memories of a coach who obviously had a big Ian Auzenne impact. "Remembering Tony Robichaux"
Sportscast or Sports Program
First Place This is a well-done and heartfelt tribute to a KPEL-FM, Lafayette coach who had a big impact in the Ian Auzenne, Jay Walker community. Nice work handling guests and and Craig Melancon callers during a difficult time. "Remembering Coach Robe"
Second Place This was a solid presentation of an exciting KPEL-FM, Lafayette high school football championship game. The Ian Auzenne, Brandon Comeaux announcers work well together. and Mark Pope "Acadiana Wreckin' Rams Football: The Class 5A State Championship Game"
Third Place This was an enthusiastic re-cap of a high WCKK-FM/WLIN-FM, Kosciusko school football game. Nice job helping the "Kosciusko Whippets Football: star player through the post-game interview "Pick Six" for the Win" after his game-winning play.
Documentary or Series of Stories
First Place Mississippi Public Broadcasting, Jackson Alexandra Watts "High Rates of HIV in the Mississippi Delta Result in Increased Outreach"
Second Place Mississippi Public Broadcasting, Jackson Alexandra Watts "'It Just Keeps Getting Worse.' Delta Flooding Still a Concern"
Third Place WJSU-FM, Jackson Eric Walker "Mississippi Historic ICE Raids"
Public Affairs
First Place Very unique Public Affairs show that got out KEDM-FM, Monroe of out the studio. Loved the format and the Cory Crowe live studio audience. Interesting topic and "Policy and a Pint: A Feral nice balance of guests. Well done! Hog Invasion"
Second Place Excellent use of natural sound throughout Mississippi Public Broadcasting, the piece. Loved the first-hand accounts by Jackson the farmers. Great writing that brought the Alexandra Watts piece to life! Nice Job! "'It Just Keeps Getting Worse.' Delta Flooding Still a Concern" Third Place Mississippi Public Broadcasting, Nice use of natural sound at the beginning Jackson and end of the piece. Very interesting topic. Ashley Norwood Loved the fact you branched out in the "Mississippians at Odds Over national Confederate monument issue as Confederate Holiday" well.
Breaking News
First Place KPEL-FM, Lafayette Ian Auzenne "Hurricane Barry"
Second Place WCKK-FM/WLIN-FM, Kosciusko "November 5 Election Coverage"
Third Place WJSU-FM, Jackson Eric Walker and Meridith Hairston "Election Night Coverage"
Anchor/Reporter
First Place WCKK-FM/WLIN-FM, Kosciusko Breck Riley
Second Place Mississippi Public Broadcasting, Jackson Desare Frazier
Radio Achievement
First Place With excellent use of ambient sound and Mississippi Public Broadcasting, actualities, this series provides a Jackson comprehensive sense of the true toll flooding Alexandra Watts can take. "'It Just Keeps Getting Worse.' Delta Flooding Still a Concern"
Second Place From the opening music and tease to the use Mississippi Public Broadcasting, of actualities and compelling interviews, this Jackson program offered an excellent wrap up of an Ezra Wall and Karen Brown important state election.
Third Place At a time when newsrooms must do more KEDM-FM, Monroe with less, Cory Crowe sets a fine example -- Cory Crowe delivering a solid newscast, a delightful interview on West Monroe's Pet Parade and a capable stand-up before Trump's local rally.
Newscast
First Place This entry has a good mix of stories. The Mississippi Public Broadcasting, newscast has good pacing and delivery. A Jackson solid job all-around.
Second Place WCKK-FM/WLIN-FM, Kosciusko This entry has a nice use of nat sound and Breck Riley variety in the story content.
Third Place KPEL-FM, Lafayette Brandon Comeaux
COMBINED DIVISIONS:
Best Podcast
First Place KPLC-TV, Lake Charles Jenelle Shriner and Jillian Corder "Southwest Louisiana Unsolved: The Jeff Davis 8"
Second Place KEDM-FM, Monroe Kelby Ouchley "Bayou Diversity - Neanderthal"
Louisiana Newsperson of the Year
First Place Incredible work, especially the story on the The Advocate/Times-Picayune/ horses. Outstanding reporter. New Orleans Advocate John Simerman
Second Place The epitome of what a broadcast journalist KATC-TV, Lafayette should be. Shows the impact a local news Jim Hummel anchor has on his community.
Mississippi Newsperson of the Year
First Place Caleb's commitment to investigative (Tupelo) Daily Journal journalism and freedom of information rights Caleb Bedillion set him apart this year. His work makes a real difference in his community.
Second Place Maggie seems to be the epitome of the WLBT-TV, Jackson broadcast journalist and especially the local Maggie Wade news broadcaster.
Third Place Erin had outstanding work and will continue The Meridian Star to make an impact on her community. Erin Kelly
First Amendment Award of Excellence
First Place WLBT-TV, Jackson CJ LeMaster "Pattern of Secrecy"
Second Place KATC-TV, Lafayette "Calcasieu Community $ervice"
Third Place KSLA-TV, Shreveport Blane Skiles and Bubba Kneipp "Code of Conduct"