CLASS 01 - GENERAL EXCELLENCE tractive and offer plenty of interest points was a clearly focused community service nom. On-street dining is just an idea — for readers.” project with strong writing that didn’t but a good one: “The lead is a little cliche, Division A make readers’ heads spin with numbers.” but that gives way to a well-written and CLASS 02 - COMMUNITY SERVICE Honorable Mention: Daily Chronicle, researched plea for thinking ‘beyond the 1st Place: Suburban Chronicle, Geneva. DeKalb, Kelsey Rettke, Eddie Carifio. box,’ or at least outside the restaurant.” “So clean and easy to read.” Division A COVID-19 data series with local pub- 3rd Place: The Journal-News, Hillsboro, 2nd Place: The Sidell Reporter. lic health officials: “Strong writing and Mary (Galer) Herschelman. Be Responsi- 3rd Place: Cass County Star-Gazette, 1st Place: Oakland Independent, Janice reporting. The Q&A format delivered ble With Your News: “This is a well-craft- Beardstown. Hunt. A Walk Around Oakland: “Easily important information with a conversa- ed piece on where you get your news and Honorable Mention: Hancock County the best among the entries. Every small tional feel; the topic, writing and delivery how journalists can do a better job in Journal-Pilot, Carthage. town newspaper in America should do is a great example of community service.” presenting news. It may be a bit optimis- this. It is incredible in every area of com- tic in thinking people will seek out other Division B munity service. Take a bow. You deserve Division E viewpoints for their own, at least in the it!” present climate.” 1st Place: The Hinsdalean. “With a stag- 2nd Place: Oakland Independent, Janice 1st Place: The News-Gazette, Cham- Honorable Mention: The Hinsdalean, gering amount of local content, engaging Hunt. It’s about more than coffee: “This paign, Jeff D’Alessio. Being Black in Pamela Lannom. Public comment writing and striking photos, this was a story reaches out to the community, America: “This collection of work is so scenarios asked and answered: “Related clear winner in a division full of out- defines the new space well and invites the powerful! Everyone should read it and let to the previous ‘Audience Comment...’ standing entries. This paper is chock-full community to action. Job well done.” it sink in, ...and then do something about editorial, but still well done.” of community news. The Election Day 3rd Place: The Lexingtonian, Susan Mc- i t .” coverage stands out, as does the vari- Guire, Jan Heuer, Laurie Sleeter. Lexing- 2nd Place: The News-Gazette, Cham- Division D ety of stories about the early pandemic ton Cemetery Driving Tour: “A lot of hard paign, Staff. Your Health: COVID and impacts.” work went into this and it is an excellent beyond: “Great examples of community 1st Place: The Register-Mail, Galesburg, 2nd Place: Des Plaines Journal. “This j o b.” service and keeping the public informed Tom Martin. We don’t know if COVID-19 is a very close second place. The design Honorable Mention: Park Ridge Journal, through a scary pandemic!” is here yet: “The Register-Mail makes and photos are top-notch. The scope of Lauren Barry. Maine South Curriculum 3rd Place: Rockford Register Star, Jeff a powerful case for more transparency coverage is impressive. This paper has Changes Letter. Kolkey. Response to suicide attempt ’like from local institutions on COVID-19 a tremendous amount of local content I was a criminal’ infection and transmission data. Rather delivered with clear and clean language.” Division B Honorable Mention: Daily Southtown, than cite chapter and verse of public re- 3rd Place: Republic-Times, Waterloo. Tinley Park, Zak Koeske. Zak Koeske cords law, the editorial writer focuses on “What this paper lacks in photos and 1st Place: The Hinsdalean, Staff. Sup- reporting on COVID-19 problems at large Knox County residents’ practical need for design, it makes up for with fiercely local porting local restaurants: “Nice package group home facility and changes that this information in order to make respon- hard-hitting stories that dive deep into and interesting idea. A question, however, followed sible choices for themselves and their issues that affect its community and is how did you pick the few restaurants families during the pandemic. Criticism readers.” that were featured in your series from the Division F is leavened by recognition of the health Honorable Mention: The Journal-News, list of 16 locals that were doing carryout department’s good performance in rising Hillsboro. “This paper excels at bring- or delivery? Not all of the 16 were men- 1st Place: Belleville News-Democrat, to meet unprecedented challenges. This ing community news to its readers and tioned, if I counted and tallied correctly.” Kavahn Mansouri, DeAsia Paige. Raw nuanced, well-reasoned and persuasive promoting local events, milestones and 2nd Place: The Hinsdalean, Jim Slonoff. sewage leaks into Centreville homes: editorial is best in show.” memories. I’d love to see more hard-hit- Display your community support: “Good “Detailed, multi-sourced, extensive cov- 2nd Place: Effingham Daily News, Jeff ting news items, but the stories you have idea, even if it was ‘borrowed’ as you not- erage focusing on an ongoing commu- Long. Effingham Daily News editori- are strong and engaging.” ed in the reference to the U of I fraternity. nity problem, highlighting it and clearly als: “These editorials are eloquent and Did you run more house ads, or just the explaining the issue. Some officials are effective. Appeals for civic responsibility Division C one in the contest. If you ran one, selling beginning to address it.” portray the Daily News as a credible 270 support signs and raising almost 2nd Place: Chicago Sun-Times, Lauren stakeholder in the community, allowing 1st Place: The MidWeek, DeKalb. $3,000 was a home run!” FitzPatrick. ‘30 public schools in Chica- exhortations to come off as persuasive 3rd Place: The Journal-News, Hillsboro, go named for slaveholders,’: “Extensive rather than preachy. Writer packs a Division D Tori O’Dell, Mary (Galer) Herschelman. analysis of a focused topic, with reactions punch in an economy of words, particu- 100th Anniversary of Women’s Suffrage: from many people, leading to officials’ larly in “We can’t breathe.”” 1st Place: Daily Chronicle, DeKalb. “In a year with so many negative impacts pledges to work toward changes.” 3rd Place: The Southern Illinoisan, Car- 2nd Place: The Register-Mail, Galesburg. because of COVID-19, I find it interest- 3rd Place: Belleville News-Democrat, bondale, The Southern Editorial Board. 3rd Place: Journal Gazette & Times-Cou- ing that you choose to enter something DeAsia Paige. Community service: DeA- A new chapter for SIUC: “Good editorial rier, Mattoon. that many — if not most — counties and sia Paige: “Set of stories sheds light on that explains Southern Illinois Universi- Honorable Mention: Journal-Courier, parishes in the United States had some and provides helpful context and details ty-Carbondale’s impact on the surround- Jacksonville. sort of exhibit or display. Other than about people in downtrodden communi- ing community and the need for a steady news stories, you ‘supported’ the 100th ties who are working to uplift them.” hand who can provide stability in the Division E anniversary through a revenue-generat- Honorable Mention: Daily Herald chancellor’s office.” ing page.” Group, Arlington Heights, Staff. Coverage Honorable Mention: Centralia Morning 1st Place: The Times, Ottawa. “The of COVID-19 in the Suburbs: “Thorough, Sentinel, Editorial Board. We Remember: layout is very crisp. Very powerful storm Division D well-written coverage of various local “This Memorial Day missive is poignant. coverage photos, and the stories kept me aspects of the crucial issue of 2020.” Well done.” intrigued. Overall really good scope of 1st Place: Herald & Review, Deca- coverage.” tur, Staff. COVID community service: CLASS 03 - LOCAL EDITORIAL Division E 2nd Place: The News-Gazette, Cham- “Providing coverage of COVID is every paign. “Great photos and editorials, newspaper’s responsibility, but this team Division A 1st Place: Quincy Herald-Whig, Jason really enjoyed the Insider section – good made it so much more than that. Moving Lewton. Voters should approve QPS community feel. All around good cover- beyond basic reporting of cases, facts 1st Place: The Navigator, Albion, Len referendum: “Taxes and schools are core a g e .” and figures, the staff made a decision to Wells. That other virus. issues for any community. This editorial 3rd Place: NewsTribune, La Salle. “Crisp focus on community members, creating 2nd Place: Cass County Star-Gazette, clearly lays out a case for the referendum layout, great photos capturing essence of a #Centralillinois2gether campaign and Beardstown, Brian DeLoche. We need with good, relevant examples and back- the stories, good community interest.” adopting a mindset that sharing readers’ river access and we need it NOW! ground information. Easy to understand, Honorable Mention: Quincy Her- stories was just as crucial. Great column 3rd Place: Cass County Star-Gazette, even for someone with no prior knowl- ald-Whig. “Great scope of coverage! introducing the effort to the community, Beardstown, Brian DeLoche. Cass Coun- e d g e .” Layout, photos, advertising all well done.” and excellent job delivering personal ty’s Hunger Problem; it exists, it’s real, it’s 2nd Place: Northwest Herald, Crystal stories in a variety of engaging, impactful undeniable. Lake, Shaw Media Local News Network Division F formats.” Honorable Mention: The Free Press Editorial Board. IHSA protestors have our 2nd Place: The Telegraph, Alton, Staff. Advocate, Wilmington, Marney Simon. To attention, but what’s the plan?: “Beat out 1st Place: Chicago Sun-Times. “Engaging Truly Local: “This is a great community high school seniors and parents: It’s OK by a narrow margin, but this is a good reports on a wide variety of local topics service campaign, and a great example to grieve. one. I enjoyed reading it.” in sports, news and features. Strong and of listening to residents and filling a need 3rd Place: Northwest Herald, Crystal well developed editorials. Photos are at- – the definition of service. Great writing, Division B Lake, Shaw Media Local News Network tractive and interesting; layouts grab the branding, presentation and subjects.” Editorial Board. A solution to save Exelon reader’s attention.” 3rd Place: Effingham Daily News, 1st Place: The Hinsdalean, Pamela Lan- plants not impossible. 2nd Place: Daily Herald Group, Arling- Andrew Adams, Cathy Griffith, Charles nom. Audience comment has no place Honorable Mention: Journal Star, Peoria, ton Heights. “Solid lineup of local news, Mills. Coping with COVID: “Excellent job at end of agenda: “A forceful position on Journal Star editorial board. Pandemic sports, and feature articles, accompanied using data to drive local stories that mat- an ill-advised policy change by the local the wrong time to raise public officials’ by a variety of community correspon- ter to your community. This takes a big school board. ...It’s a solid read.” pay. dents. Strong editorials. Layouts are at- step beyond basic COVID reporting. This 2nd Place: The Hinsdalean, Pamela Lan-

Page 2 • May 2021 • Illinois Press Association CLASS 19 - PHOTO SERIES Division A 1st Place: Cass County Star-Gazette, Beardstown, Brian DeLoche. Shucks!

CLASS 19 - PHOTO SERIES Division B 1st Place: e Journal-News, Hillsboro, Kyle Herschelman. State Wrestling Tournament

CLASS 19 - PHOTO SERIES Division D 1st Place: Herald & Review, Decatur, Clay Jackson. In Touch With Nature

CLASS 19 - PHOTO SERIES Division E 1st Place: Rockford Register Star, Scott P. Yates. On the front line  ghting COVID-19

Illinois Press Association • May 2021 • Page 3 Division F first-person witness regarding tragic Why hasn’t it been fixed?: “Public acount- charged with murder in brutal double shootings by troubled employee at a local ability journalism at its best. This story homicide of Sycamore mother, son. 1st Place: Chicago Sun-Times, Chicago company.” left me outraged and demanding action. Honorable Mention: The Register-Mail, Sun-Times editorial board. ‘Strife on 3rd Place: The Journal-News, Hillsboro, Fine work.” Galesburg, Staff. Black Voices of Gales- the streets and police reform’ editorials: Mary (Galer) Herschelman. Eight-Week 3rd Place: Chicago Sun-Times, Stefano burg. “Positions on regional issues are strong- Window A Struggle For Businesses: “Story Esposito. ’25 years later, Fox River Grove ly stated with vivid language that grabs aptly conveys how the COVID-19 shut- Metra-school bus crash still haunts engi- Division E the reader’s attention. Details support down was affecting local business.” neer, other survivors’: “A beautifully writ- well-reasoned arguments without dis- Honorable Mention: The Hinsdalean, ten account that places a reader squarely 1st Place: Northwest Herald, Crystal tracting from their clarity. Memorable.” Pamela Lannom. Hinsdaleans coping in the center of an avoidable disaster, Lake, Katie Smith, Amanda Marrazzo, 2nd Place: Daily Herald Group, Arlington with COVID-19: “Good details and then demonstrates what has changed to Cassie Buchman. Fallout from the mur- Heights, John Lampinen. Disqualifying reporting with need-to-know informa- repeat it.” der of 5-year-old AJ Freund: “This was a views: “A strong call to action on a local tion for readers on how the onset of the Honorable Mention: Belleville great job of covering a difficult case. The issue, with clear evidence and arguments. pandemic is affecting local entities and News-Democrat, Alexis Cortes. Granite stories were compelling and captured the May well have contributed to the board everyone’s day-to-day lives.” City crime-free housing rules displace issues surrounding the child’s death and president’s resignation. hundreds — even those not accused of detailed the tragic life of this child.” 3rd Place: Chicago Sun-Times, Lee Bey. Division C crime: “An admirable job prying into the 2nd Place: Northwest Herald, Crystal ‘Keep Mercy Hospital open’ editorials, unintended consequences of a law that Lake, Amanda Marrazzo. Burrito Express Lee Bey: “Strong calls to action on a 1st Place: Pioneer Press Media Group, obviously needs revisiting. Memorable murder: “This was a well-written series of local issue, backed up by details, clear Chicago, Chuck Fieldman. Local mental and artfully told.” stories that brought attention to a possi- explanations of the issues and the large health experts on challenges dealing with ble wrongful conviction. Great job.” community impacts, and well reasoned pandemic. CLASS 05 - NEWS REPORTING - SERIES 3rd Place: NewsTribune, La Salle, Jayce arguments.” 2nd Place: Pioneer Press Media Group, Eustice. Wally makes waves: “This series Honorable Mention: Chicago Sun-Times, Chicago, Chuck Fieldman. Oak Brook Division A of stories shows all journalism does not Lorraine Forte. ‘Kids belong in school keeps legal action as option over red-light need to focus on serious subject matter. (real school) despite pandemic’ editori- camera. 1st Place: Oregon Republican Reporter, Wally’s adventures were well-document- als, Lorraine Forte: “Strong calls to action 3rd Place: Pioneer Press Media Group, Jeff Helfrich, Earleen Hinton. Storm hits ed in this series.” on a local issue, supported by details and Chicago, Chuck Fieldman. Local pizza Forreston: “Really outstanding work Honorable Mention: NewsTribune, clear explanations, and well reasoned place becomes legendary over one of its telling the story of a terrible storm in a La Salle, Staff. La Salle Veterans Home arguments.” menu items. unique way.” COVID-19 outbreak: “This series does a Honorable Mention: Pioneer Press 2nd Place: Oregon Republican Reporter, great job of putting a face on COVID and, CLASS 04 - Media Group, Chicago, Chuck Fieldman. Jeff Helfrich. Jay’s Drive In adjusts, thrives at the same time, bringing a serious issue NEWS REPORTING - SINGLE STORY Elmhurst girl practices violin to raise despite COVID-19 mitigations: “A fun, into the light.” money for COVID-19 efforts. hyper-local way of telling the story of how Division A a business is thriving during a difficult Division F Division D time. Very cool stories.” 1st Place: Kendall County Record, 3rd Place: The Sidell Reporter, Suzanne 1st Place: Chicago Sun-Times, Frank Yorkville, Lucas Robinson. Kendall 1st Place: Herald & Review, Decatur, Woodard and Rinda Maddox. Perfect Main, Andy Grimm. ‘Long delays for County jobless numbers show improve- Tony Reid, Analisa Trofimuk. Years of Timing: “Interesting story of how a poten- justice: “This package made a strong case ment: “Blue ribbon reporting, writing in a neglect. tially tragic moment turned out OK. Love for action on a major problem and got crowded field of 31. The quotes early, the 2nd Place: The Beacon-News, Auro- the sidebar timeline.” results.” attention the art captures – it is excellent ra, Megan Jones. Escaping killer Bruce Honorable Mention: The Woodstock 2nd Place: Chicago Sun-Times, Lynn journalism rather than what it might have Lindahl. Independent, Susan W. Murray. County’s Sweet. Lynn Sweet, ‘The politics of vio- been, meaning, telling about the trend of 3rd Place: The Register-Mail, Galesburg, ODs flat, despite U.S. trend: “Nice job lence in Kenosha,’ Chicago Sun-Times: important stats. Well done, and congrat- Matt Koester. COVID nurse: ‘Every day is localizing a major story throughout the “This entry took a clear, concise approach ulations!” the worst day.’ country.” to a huge question looming over Kenosha 2nd Place: Oregon Republican Reporter, Honorable Mention: Herald & Review, and the nation. The reporter gathered Earleen Hinton. Ogle County tornado: Decatur, Tony Reid. Watch now: Could Division B strong voices to tell these stories.” “Nice work! What a frightening time for gunshot detectors work in Decatur? 3rd Place: Chicago Sun-Times, Frank those residents, and their stories are 1st Place: The Greenville Advocate, Main. ‘The unintended consequences of shared. Also attention to detail on the Division E Steven Stilt. Hickman murder trial: the federal First Step Act,’ Frank Main, storm itself. This one is clearly among “Well-written and presented nicely. Your Jon Seidel: “The reporters took a deeper those that stands out in a category of 31.” 1st Place: The State Journal-Register, series was written so as to allow me to feel look at a heralded act and raised serious 3rd Place: Oakland Independent, Janice Springfield, Staff of The State Jour- that I was in the courtroom, following the questions.” Hunt. Time capsule found during demo- nal-Register. Bunn-O-Matic shooting: testimony. This is what news-reporting is Honorable Mention: Chicago Sun-Times, lition of church building: “As fascinating “Great job on covering this tragedy and all about.” Tim Novak, Lauren FitzPatrick. Cook a story among the 31 in this category that giving the readers a real sense of what 2nd Place: Kane County Chronicle, St. County Land Bank Authority investiga- there was, and the author keeps us read- happened.” Charles, Brenda Schory. Abandoned dog tion: “The reporters shed light on trou- ing to the end. The money-winner photo 2nd Place: Rockford Register Star, Kevin finds new home: “One of those feel-good bling financial ties within this program.” of the pastor on the phone as the newspa- Haas. ‘It shouldn’t take 5 years to get stories that tugs at your heart. Well-writ- per of that day – don’t you love how wide justice’: “This story brings the frustration ten and good presentation. Glad Wyatt CLASS 06 - LOCALIZED NATIONAL STORY it is? – is read to the crowd gathered is a with the slow pace of the justice system has a forever home where he has the wonderful touch in the presentation. Nice into the forefront and also combines the chance to thrive. Kudos for telling the Division A work!” effects of COVID.” story, as the public needs to be reminded Honorable Mention: The Harrisburg 3rd Place: Quincy Herald-Whig, Matt that this problem is everywhere” 1st Place: Oakland Independent, Janice Register, Travis DeNeal. Pope County Hopf. Responding to tragedy: “An often 3rd Place: Cook County Chronicle, Hunt. Never too late for honor: “This family finds Civil War-era belt buckle: overlooked situation is addressed in this Chicago, Kevin Beese. News Reporting story epitomizes a localized national sto- “Readers can rejoice when, in the past well-written and researched story.” Series: “Nice package on the numbers. ry – a local sailor on a boat that received year, their authors can bring them the Honorable Mention: The News-Gazette, Interesting exodus.” a national honor. Well done story and a positives from the pandemic. This story Champaign, Jeff D’Alessio. Marine’s WWII Honorable Mention: The Hinsdalean, variety of historic photos to tell this story.” fits that bill, and the author has done a remains recovered, returned home: “A Staff. New parking deck. 2nd Place: The Navigator, Albion, Amy wonderful job of telling it. It is interesting, well-written story of paying tribute to a Winter. What it’s like on the frontlines: unique, and something readers need local veteran.” Division C “A compelling story of a local nurse on to know about. From a category of 31 the front lines of New York of fighting the entries, this is well done!” Division F 1st Place: Pioneer Press Media Group, COVID-19 pandemic. Could have used Chicago, Karen Ann Cullotta, Genevieve fewer direct quotes and it needed info Division B 1st Place: Chicago Sun-Times, Neil Stein- Bookwalter, Karen Berkowitz. A Changing on how she got to that hospital, but other berg, Ashlee Rezin Garcia. ‘Our worst North Shore. than that a good story.” 1st Place: Cook County Chronicle, day,’ Neil Steinberg, Ashlee Rezin Garcia, 3rd Place: The Sidell Reporter, Suzanne Chicago, Kein Beese. ‘It’s beyond heart- Chicago Sun-Times: “A riveting account Division D Woodard. Autism Awareness Month: breaking’: “Good, detailed reporting and loaded with detail and drama, putting the “This story puts local faces on a disease profile on the sad, tragic death of a young reader on the front lines of the COVID-19 1st Place: Centralia Morning Sentinel, that affects many nationwide. Nice and Good Samaritan and dad who was only battle. I thought about this story for a long Josh Jones, Ray Albert, Travis Morse. Dog varied photos of the youths.” trying to help others.” time afterward, which is the mark of any shootings series. Honorable Mention: The Woodstock 2nd Place: The Journal-News, Hillsboro, good story.” 2nd Place: The Telegraph, Alton, Staff. Independent, Tricia Carzoli. Veterans Mary (Galer) Herschelman. Hillsboro 2nd Place: Belleville News-Democrat, Mayor’s wife violates COVID rules. suicides decline locally: “Good story Man On Scene At Springfield Shooting: Kavahn Mansouri. Raw sewage invades 3rd Place: Daily Chronicle, DeKalb, about local efforts to help veterans.” “Good reporting and information from the homes of Illinois’ poorest residents. Kelsey Rettke, Eric R. Olson. Ohio man

Page 4 • May 2021 • Illinois Press Association CLASS 20 - SPOT NEWS PHOTO Division A 1st Place: Cass County Star-Gazette, Beardstown, Brian DeLoche. Turning up the volume

CLASS 20 - SPOT NEWS PHOTO Division B 1st Place: e Greenville Advocate, Dave Bell. Paving parade

CLASS 20 - SPOT NEWS PHOTO Division D 1st Place: e Telegraph, Alton, John Badman. River rescue.

CLASS 20 - SPOT NEWS PHOTO Division E 1st Place: Rockford Register Star, Scott P. Yates. Fire destroys Loves Park apart- ment building

Illinois Press Association • May 2021 • Page 5 Division B in their coverage areas. Bringing issues in the public interest.” affect this paper’s readers. I appreciate a like this to light is one of the main reasons 2nd Place: The News-Gazette, Cham- newspaper that takes the time to explain 1st Place: The Journal-News, Hillsboro, newspapers exist, and this project proves paign, Ben Zigterman, Mary Schenk. UI complex issues to readers.” Thin Line Between Black and Badge. why they are still needed.” police officer faces sexual harassment Thin Line Between Black and Badge: Honorable Mention: The Herald-News, complaints: “Smart reporting on a tough Division C “Wonderful. Marries a national issue Joliet, Alex Ortiz. Democratic Party asks and important subject often obscured by locally and tells a poignant story.” Will County Board candidate to quit after protective personnel laws and a pervasive 1st Place: Pioneer Press Media Group, 2nd Place: The Hinsdalean, Ken Knut- groping allegation: “This story localizing code of silence. Journalists on this story Chicago, Kaitlin Edquist. Glenview Vil- son. Fires in the west spark man into Trump policies in view of a local election showed tenacity and used open records lage Board coverage. action: “Very good interview about being was engaging, and gives unique views of effectively to hold a public servant ac- 2nd Place: Pioneer Press Media Group, a rookie wildland firefighter.” local candidates for voters ahead of going countable for his actions.” Chicago, James T. Norman. Crime pat- 3rd Place: Des Plaines Journal, Lauren to the polls.” 3rd Place: The News-Gazette, Cham- terns at start of pandemic. Barry. Protests & Why: “Good work. All paign, Jeff D’Alessio. Higher education 3rd Place: Pioneer Press Media Group, related to the George Floyd death, all Division F salaries: “A solid example of open records Chicago, James T. Norman. Libertyville different.” reporting in the public interest.” sales tax referendum explainer. Honorable Mention: Kane County 1st Place: Belleville News-Democrat, Honorable Mention: Pioneer Press Chronicle, St. Charles, Eric Schelkopf. Kelsey Landis. Stimulus money for small Division F Media Group, Chicago, James T. Norman. Protestors march down Route 38: “In- business seemed like a good idea. Here’s Deerfield assault weapons ban update. teresting use of photos with the quotes how it backfired. 1st Place: Belleville News-Democrat, attached.” 2nd Place: Belleville News-Democrat, DeAsia Paige, Kavahn Mansouri, Alexis Division D Teri Maddox. A deeper look at Edwards- Cortes. Centreville violated government Division C ville’s slave-owning namesake and the transparency law, IL Attorney General’s 1st Place: Breeze Courier, Taylorville, debate over statues. Office says: “The Belleville News-Dem- Owen Lasswell. Taylorville City Council 1st Place: Illinois Times, Springfield, Ra- 3rd Place: Chicago Sun-Times, Maudlyne ocrat is to be commended for keeping coverage: “Great writing on a topic that chel Otwell. Hundreds march in Taylor- Ihejirika. Chicago clergy on seeking God pressure on a city that is failing its citizens should concern all taxpayers.” ville: Local organizes event around justice in the age of COVID: ‘The church has left on a basic service most of us take for 2nd Place: Daily Chronicle, DeKalb, and anti-racism: “Solid protest coverage the building.’ granted.” Kelsey Rettke, Katie Finlon. Sycamore with a compelling main character.” Honorable Mention: Belleville 2nd Place: Belleville News-Democrat, water woes: lead levels, city denials lead 2nd Place: Pioneer Press Media Group, News-Democrat, DeAsia Paige. Amid Megan Valley, Alexis Cortes, Kelsey to class action lawsuit: “Nice handling Chicago, Pioneer Press staff. In politi- protests, Black-owned businesses in East Landis. Why is coronavirus data being of a conflicting situation that could have cal climate often filled with vitriol, high St. Louis demand change. kept secret?: “This entry does a good job gotten out of control.” school civics teachers see hope: “A nice explaining why the information is import- 3rd Place: The Telegraph, Alton, Scott survey of various high school teachers CLASS 07 - ant, while also showing the privacy issues Cousins. Hulme, Dorman fired: “Very to respond to an increasingly polarized FREEDOM OF INFORMATION AWARD that make releasing it a challenge.” diplomatic reporting.” national debate.” 3rd Place: Belleville News-Democrat, Honorable Mention: Herald & Review, 3rd Place: Pioneer Press Media Group, Division A Kavahn Mansouri. Public Pay Database: Decatur, Analisa Trofimuk. Analisa Chicago, Kaitlin Edquist, Genevieve “Pay makes up much of any government’s Trofimuk: “Nice job telling all sides of the Bookwalter. National movement comes to 1st Place: The Braidwood Journal, Jenni- budget, so making this information avail- story.” Glenview, Evanston: “Fact-based protest fer Glasscock. Braidwood Police Depart- able is an important public service. The coverage that includes a good variety of ment helicopter unit: “LOVE the lede. Belleville News-Democrat has gathered Division E local voices.” This is proper FOIA reporting.” pay data for dozens of area localities. 2nd Place: Chicago Daily Law Bulletin, That’s no small feat.” 1st Place: The Herald-News, Joliet, Bob Division D Andrew Maloney. Investigation and Okon. City of Joliet government beat decrees among state’s legal fees in 2019: CLASS 08 - GOVERNMENT BEAT REPORTING reporting by Bob Okon: “Bob Okon’s 1st Place: The Register-Mail, Galesburg, “Very thorough, especially with the entire stories were informative and entertaining Matt Koester. Families cope in tragic list on there.” Division A at the same time. Making government aftermath of overdoses: “Poignant story 3rd Place: Kendall County Record, stories relevant and interesting is a tough that gives a national tragedy a local focus. Yorkville, Katie Finlon. Yorkville 115 no- 1st Place: Coal City Courant, Ann Gill. balance. And Okon did a great job.” Well written with good use of quotes.” tified families of several COVID-19 cases Coal City village government. 2nd Place: The News-Gazette, Cham- 2nd Place: The Southern Illinoisan, in schools since Aug. 20, per FOIA docs: 2nd Place: Clinton Journal, Gordon paign, Mary Schenk. Crime and courts: Carbondale, Molly Parker. JALC suspends “Good stuff on a continuous issue.” Woods. Battle over Alta Farms II wind “The stories were compelling and diversity activities: “Well sourced with a energy project continues. well-written and well-researched. Mary lot of effort to show all sides of the story.” Division D 3rd Place: Chicago Daily Law Bulletin, Schenk did a great job of telling the 3rd Place: The Register-Mail, Galesburg, Jordyn Reiland. Jordyn Reiland court- stories of the individuals involved and the Tom Martin. ‘You’re gonna’ start seeing 1st Place: Daily Chronicle, DeKalb, house beat. impact on their lives.” Blacks speak up’: “Fantastic portrait of a Kelsey Rettke, Katie Finlon. Sycamore Honorable Mention: Chicago Daily Law 3rd Place: The News-Gazette, Cham- local man.” water woes: Lead levels, city denial lead Bulletin, Marc Karlinsky. Marc Karlinsky paign, Anthony Zilis. Champaign-Urbana Honorable Mention: Breeze Courier, to class action lawsuit: “Great use of the courts/legal beat. school boards: “This was a well-written Taylorville, Owen Lasswell. Taylorville Freedom of Information Act. This story group of stories that touched upon some protest peaceful: “A good examination of would not have been what it became Division B subject matters that are not always at the national event with a local connection.” without using it.” forefont in education coverage.” 2nd Place: Daily Chronicle, DeKalb, 1st Place: The Journal-News, Hillsboro, Honorable Mention: NewsTribune, La Division E Eddie Carifio, Kelsey Rettke. Local long- Kyle Herschelman. Litchfield City Coun- Salle, Tom Collins. Tracking the Peru term care facilities battle COVID-19 cil: “Terrific writing, interesting ledes and Mall’s future: “Nice coverage of an issue 1st Place: The News-Gazette, Cham- outbreaks: “Nice use of the Freedom strong quotes highlight this entry. The many communities are facing. There was paign, Jeff D’Alessio. Tribute to John of Information Act, a practice not often writer did a good job explaining all sides.” lots of good information in this stories, Lewis: “A truly historic remembrance of a undertaken by smaller newsrooms.” 2nd Place: The Journal-News, Hillsboro, and a great job of letting the community man worthy of being honored, the unique 3rd Place: Daily Chronicle, DeKalb, Ed- Mike Plunkett. Hillsboro School Board: know what was happening.” way the editor used a 10 things to know die Carifio. Health department releases “This entry does a good job making clear format highlighted astonishing facts list of local businesses violating indoor how difficult a decision faces the school Division F about the congressman brought him back dining ban: “Good job tackling a national board by putting names to those who to life. Weaving in presidential comments story from a local angle.” lost their jobs. The articles clearly explain 1st Place: Chicago Sun-Times, Tom and giving him a full-page spread made the issue and proposed solutions, and Schuba. Tom Schuba government beat the tribute even better.” Division E narrowly edged out the competition for reporting on marijuana legalization: 2nd Place: The News-Gazette, Cham- second place.” “Tightly focused, thorough and gritty paign, Bob Asmussen. Lou Brock’s pass- 1st Place: The Herald-News, Joliet, Bob 3rd Place: The Hinsdalean, Pamela Lan- reporting on a developing industry that ing: “A beautiful tribute to an obviously Okon. Joliet Slammers’ secret stadium nom. District 86 coverage: “This was very needs scrutiny.” unique baseball player. These nuggets naming rights agreement: “Fighting for nearly second place in a category with 2nd Place: Daily Herald Group, Arlington of interest in small towns make the best freedom of information takes tenacity lots of strong competition. The articles Heights, Marni Pyke. Transportation Beat stories, and the reporter did a superb job and a commitment of resources. The Her- that cover the reopening of high schools Coverage: “These stories had bite, made weaving the tale in a way that was en- ald-News demonstrated both in its efforts amid COVID-19 cases are particularly good use of public records, and gave a gaging and made me smile several times to force the release of a six-figure deal strong and show a community divided on voice to a segment of public transporta- while reading.” kept from both the public and, apparent- a critical issue.” tion riders who especially depend on well 3rd Place: The Pantagraph, Bloomington, ly, the officials elected to serve them. The Honorable Mention: Republic-Times, running systems.” Staff. Police agencies face diversity divide: work the paper produced here was far Waterloo, James “Tal” Moss. Government 3rd Place: Chicago Sun-Times, Nader “In a time when there should be a focus from ‘frivolity,’ to quote the mayor – it’s reporting – income tax amendment deep Issa. Nader Issa, Chicago schools beat on diversity, the Pantagraph highlighted the bedrock accountability reporting that dive: “This series brings in local data to coverage: “Well-rounded and deeply significant issues of police departments forms the foundation of journalism illustrate how a state tax change would reported coverage from

Page 6 • May 2021 • Illinois Press Association CLASS 21 - GENERAL NEWS PHOTO Division A 1st Place: Palatine Journal & Topics, Shawn Clisham. In Remembrance

CLASS 20 - SPOT NEWS PHOTO Division F 1st Place: Daily Herald Group, Arlington Heights, Rick West. Protest Prayer

CLASS 21 - GENERAL NEWS PHOTO Division B 1st Place: e Hinsdalean, Jim Slono . Science can be a laughing matter

CLASS 21 - GENERAL NEWS PHOTO Division C 1st Place: Journal & Topics Media Group, Shawn Clisham. Breathe In, Breathe Out

Illinois Press Association • May 2021 • Page 7 this education writer.” expected’: Pawn shops seeing surprising Hartsock. Hometown Hero: Remember- events and statistics to truly paint a Honorable Mention: Belleville results during stay-at-home order: “This ing Michael McGarvey: “Nice job captur- harrowing picture for readers. Very well News-Democrat, Kelsey Landis. Kelsey story took me by surprise and piqued my ing the color and vibrancy of this man.” done.” Landis government beat reporting: interest. The reporter found a different 2nd Place: Mcleansboro Gazette, William 3rd Place: Journal Star, Peoria, Phil Lu- “These stories were all thoroughly report- business to talk to that not all papers McPherson. Jerry Sloan Was Never Far ciano. After 33 years, No Susie at Susie’s ed and well-written.” turned to.” From Home: “Thorough and vivid imag- Hot Dogs: “This tribute goes further than ery.” just a featured obit, weaving in the history CLASS 09 - Division E 3rd Place: DuPage County Chronicle, of the hot dog stand and Susie as well BUSINESS/ECONOMIC REPORTING Wheaton, Irv Leavitt. Goodbye, Hawk: as the future of what it will become. The 1st Place: Northwest Herald, Crystal “Wow. What a character. This obituary headline is intriguing and the story pulls Division A Lake, Cassie Buchman, Drew Zimmer- made me want to know Hawk.” you in from the first line.” man. ‘Emotional,’ devastating’: Former Honorable Mention: Oakland Indepen- Honorable Mention: Journal Star, Peoria, 1st Place: Oak Leaves, Oak Park, Steve Bowes employees, FightBack patients dis- dent, Janice Hunt. Grandma Betty taught Scott Hilyard. In Peoria, ‘best grandma Schering. ‘We’re scared:’ Restaurant cuss closures, layoffs: “My heart ached for me two main lessons: work hard, but also in the world’ succumbs to COVID-19: “I owners adjusting to state ban: “This is a those interviewed for this story, both the play hard. could picture the family standing by the business/economic story! Numbers in employees and the clients they served. bedside in hazmat suits. The reporter context, effects, everything tells a great The story was very, very well done and Division B did a great job of showcasing how well portrait. This was tops in a very crowded showed the far-reaching impacts of the Fran was loved as well as how COVID-19 field of good stories.” mismanagement through personal sto- 1st Place: The Hinsdalean, Pamela attacked the family as a whole.” 2nd Place: The Braidwood Journal, Eric ries. Even not knowing anyone involved, Lannom. Consummate TV newsman was Fisher. A community’s cook retiring: I’m angry and disheartened for each and also our friend. Division F “Different type of business story that’s every one of them.” 2nd Place: The Hinsdalean, Pamela Lan- almost a personal feature. Enjoyable to 2nd Place: NewsTribune, La Salle, Tom nom. Rincon remembered for her loving 1st Place: Chicago Sun-Times, Maureen read with great quotes and flow. Couldn’t Collins. ‘I’ve never seen it this busy: heart. O’Donnell. ‘Longtime sound engineer for stop reading.” “An interesting look into the impacts of 3rd Place: Park Ridge Herald-Advocate, Stevie Wonder, Lane Tech grad,’ Danny 3rd Place: Kendall County Record, COVID-19 on a plumbing business. It’s Jennifer Johnson. “Family, animal lovers Leake obit. Yorkville, Lucas Robinson. ‘It’s still a not a business I would consider being remember Niles veterinarian who died 2nd Place: Chicago Sun-Times, Mark shock’: Restaurant, bar owners react to overloaded (pun intended), but this story, after COVID-19 diagnosis.” Brown. ‘Brian Surratt loved to laugh . . . new restrictions: “Good length, told a which made me laugh several times, real- Honorable Mention: Cook County but then COVID claimed him.’ nice story broken up by subheads.” ly put it into perspective. It was a unique Chronicle, Chicago, Bill Dwyer. John 3rd Place: Daily Herald Group, Arlington Honorable Mention: Oregon Republican take on the toll the virus played on small Prine. Heights, Tom Quinlan. Bob Frisk: Our so- Reporter, Jeff Helfrich. COVID-19 impact businesses.” cial media before there was social media. on farms, businesses: “Good package. 3rd Place: Journal Star, Peoria, Phil Lu- Division C Honorable Mention: Belleville The pics and story tell a good story and ciano. Eww! At North Valley pawn shop, News-Democrat, Carolyn P. Smith. East attract the reader. Wish it got the other hot weather brings customers with ‘moist 1st Place: Pioneer Press Media Group, St. Louis community mourns after death side (business owners who aren’t com- money’: “This story made me wrinkle my Chicago, Genevieve Bookwalter. Hecky of longtime educator and politician. plying).” nose the entire time. Anything that gives Powell, Evanston barbecue master a physical reaction is time well spent for and community booster, dies at 71 of CLASS 11 - SPORTS NEWS Division B the writer, and I could feel, smell and vi- COVID-19: “A broad look at the impact sualize the “moist money” (though even of a beloved barbecue master on his Division Daily 1st Place: The Hinsdalean, Pamela writing that feels so gross) while reading. community.” Lannom. Flattening the curve: “Every The kicker at the end with the gold tooth 2nd Place: Journal & Topics Media 1st Place: Daily Chronicle, DeKalb, newsroom in America covered the local made my jaw drop and solidified this as a Group, Dion Martorano. Heart of the Kaleb Carter. Three DeKalb wrestlers take business impacts of COVID-19. This story I won’t soon forget.” Pirates: “A touching tribute of a beloved second for record-setting Barbs. series is a stellar example of doing it well. Honorable Mention: The Times, Ottawa, high-school athlete.” 2nd Place: Chicago Tribune Media You top it off with great quotes and some Brent Bader. Eagle 6 hopes idea takes 3rd Place: Pioneer Press Media Group, Group, Staff. ‘Last Dance’ coverage clever ledes.” off: “Not only do I love the theater’s idea Chicago, Genevieve Bookwalter. Former package. 2nd Place: The Hinsdalean, Ken Knutson. (and wish mine locally would have done Evanston basketball star Ryan Bost, 20, 3rd Place: The Edwardsville Intelligencer, Hinsdale openings bring fresh offerings: the same) but the story is portrayed well, killed in Rogers Park shooting: “Dynamic Matt Kamp. Edwardsville baseball – Ti- “This lively, local piece showcases diver- showcasing it more as a community sup- photography and fond memories of a life gers top Warriors in summer scrimmage. sity and plays with color. The description port effort in addition to a smart business cut short by violence.” Honorable Mention: Chicago Sun-Times, of the rug shop was delightfully done.” decision. It also highlights the struggles Maureen O’Donnell. ‘Pioneering sports- 3rd Place: The Journal-News, Hillsboro, of small businesses during the pandemic Division D caster Jeannie Morris dies.’ Mary (Galer) Herschelman. Gardens in a refreshing way that stands out from Grow Despite Pandemic Outbreak: “A other similar content newspapers across 1st Place: The Southern Illinoisan, Car- Division Non Daily delightful feature filled with details that the country wrote over the past year.” bondale, Molly Parker. Local icon remem- looks at something positive that came bered: Jason Tanner embodied spirit of 1st Place: Glen Ellyn Suburban Life, out of the pandemic. The perfect quotes Division F Carbondale to many people. Joshua Welge. Super feeling: Montini is really sell this piece.” 2nd Place: Centralia Morning Sentinel, headed back to state: “You can feel the Honorable Mention: The Journal-News, 1st Place: Chicago Sun-Times, Tim Connor Wood. Community remembers excitement in reading this story about a Hillsboro, Mary (Galer) Herschelman. Novak, Lauren FitzPatrick. Cook County Jim Adams. plucky bunch of athletes handling busi- Eight-Week Window A Struggle For Land Bank Authority investigation, Tim 3rd Place: The Register-Mail, Galesburg, ness with a dash of fun.” Businesses: “Although this article takes its Novak, Lauren FitzPatrick: “A terrific Tom Martin. Tom Wilson knew all the 2nd Place: The Commercial-News, time getting to the heart of the matter, it investigation that uncovered wrongdoing drummers. Danville, Chad Dare. HEARTBREAKING: localizes a pressing national issue with a and resulted in changes.” Honorable Mention: Sauk Valley Media, Blue Devils state run ends against bigger diversity of sources.” 2nd Place: Daily Herald Group, Arling- Brian Weidman. Sauk Valley basketball Cylones: “You can’t help but feel for ton Heights, David Bernstein, Staff. The community mourns loss of referee. anyone who rides a wave of magic only to Division D Deal at 30: “A thorough retrospective that come up short in the end, but this is also gives a lot of insight into the company’s Division E an inspiring read.” 1st Place: Sauk Valley Media, Brian decision-making.” 3rd Place: The Hinsdalean, Ken Knutson. Weidman. Gone fishin’ for good: Bunny’s 3rd Place: Belleville News-Democrat, 1st Place: The News-Gazette, Cham- Swimmers rewrite record books: “You Bait Shop, a Dixon institution, set to close DeAsia Paige. Amid protests, Black- paign, Anthony Zilis. ‘We’re all devastat- can’t help but wonder ‘what if’ by reading its doors Oct. 8: “I love the details and de- owned businesses in East St. Louis de- ed’: “From the heartbreaking photo to this article about Hinsdale Central High’s scriptions that brought this story to life.” mand change: “Great job explaining what the words of friends telling us how easily girls’ swim team. Nonetheless, racking up 2nd Place: The Register-Mail, Galesburg, business owners want and how changes Todd could have been saved, the story a bunch of school records and a section Matt Koester. Making a model city for could impact the community.” catches you and doesn’t let you go. The title is pretty satisfying. Nicely done.” solar & New solar projects on the rise: “A Honorable Mention: Belleville homeless are often forgotten, and this Honorable Mention: Bureau County Re- really extensive piece with a lot of good News-Democrat, Kelsey Landis. Stimulus beautiful yet harrowing tribute serves as publican, Princeton, Kevin Hieronymus. information for readers. The effort put money for small business seemed like a way to remind people they are people, A toast of Champaign: “After a quar- into the article is clear.” a good idea. Here’s how it backfired: “A t o o.” ter-century away, the reporter gives an 3rd Place: The Register-Mail, Galesburg, unique angle on the PPP loans. Interest- 2nd Place: Journal Star, Peoria, Phil Lu- excellent overview of what made Cham- Matt Koester. Steve Abron’s barber shop ing read.” ciano. Cheerful, healthy mom becomes paign the place to be for tournament center for Black progress in Galesburg: youngest COVID-19 victim in Tri-County basketball while balancing modern-day “This story wasn’t what I was expected – it CLASS 10 - OBITUARY TRIBUTE area: “This featured obituary goes further concerns about declining interest. It sure went beyond a typical closure story to than normal coverage, showcasing the made me feel smarter for reading.” detail the life of Abron” Division A reality of COVID-19 in a unique way Honorable Mention: Daily Chronicle, through the family’s eyes and honoring DeKalb, Eddie Carifio. ‘Completely un- 1st Place: The Navigator, Albion, Steve the dead, while also bringing in current

Page 8 • May 2021 • Illinois Press Association CLASS 21 - GENERAL NEWS PHOTO Division D 1st Place: e Telegraph, Alton, John Badman. Distant farewell

CLASS 21 - GENERAL NEWS PHOTO Division E CLASS 21 - GENERAL NEWS PHOTO Division F 1st Place: e News-Gazette, Champaign, Robin Scholz. COVID concert 1st Place: Daily Herald Group, Arlington Heights, Brian Hill. Centenarian’s COVID Birthday

Illinois Press Association • May 2021 • Page 9 CLASS 12 - SPORTS FEATURE Honorable Mention: The Noarmalite needed to read.” that touches on a few issues, but from a Group, Normal, Luke Smucer. Ode to humanizing lens.” Division Daily Older Pets. CLASS 14 - FEATURE WRITING - PERSONALITY PROFILE Division F 1st Place: Chicago Sun-Times, Ben Pope. Division C ’Last fan standing,’ Ben Pope: “The vol- Division A 1st Place: Chicago Sun-Times, Rachel ume of information here is outstanding. I 1st Place: Pioneer Press Media Group, Hinton, Ashlee Rezin Garcia, Brian honestly felt like I was in the arena when Chicago, Karen Ann Cullotta. Wilmette’s 1st Place: The Sidell Reporter, Rinda Rich. ‘Resettlement, reunification and this was all happening. Tremendous last American Legion post is disbanding. Maddox. And, sew it is... romance’: “An emotional story with a effort on a night no one there will forget.” 2nd Place: The MidWeek, DeKalb, 2nd Place: Cass County Star-Gazette, grabber of a lede, mixing a global trauma 2nd Place: Chicago Tribune Media Katrina J.E. Milton. Kickin it Old School: Beardstown, Brian DeLoche. Local retired with a local love story. A very satisfying, Group, Dan Wiederer. The Chicago Bears Malta pizzeria to offer food, fun and pop soldier earned ‘the walk’ at Arlington. feel-good read.” attended Deshaun Watson’s pro day in culture nostalgia. 3rd Place: Oakland Independent, Janice 2nd Place: Chicago Sun-Times, Maureen 2017 — but that was about it.: “The dive 3rd Place: Pioneer Press Media Group, Hunt. Bumper crop of appreciation. O’Donnell. “A faithful caretaker of the into how and why the Bears QB situation Chicago, Kaitlin Edquist. Parade cele- Honorable Mention: Ledger-Sentinel, ‘faithful departed’ “l: “A detailed portrait ended the way it did is deep, precise and brates young cancer survivor. Oswego, Shea Lazansky. ‘My life belongs that tugs at the most stubborn heart, eyebrow-raising for any fan of the club. Honorable Mention: The MidWeek, to this community’: Kristi Vest reflects on especially imagining a three-way polka This is outstanding reporting.” DeKalb, Katrina J.E. Milton. Victory Lap: small towns, park district. dance in the afterlife.” 3rd Place: Chicago Sun-Times, Steve Boy’s end of cancer treatments celebrated 3rd Place: Chicago Sun-Times, Caroline Greenberg. Steve Greenberg, ‘Basket with surprise drive-by parade. Division B Hurley. ‘When pandemic hit, a Chicago cases at Wrigley Field’: “Fun read about jazz icon’s world fell apart’: “I enjoyed something even my grandparents (life- Division D 1st Place: The Niles Bugle, Mark Grego- getting to know Erwin Helfer, and the long Cubs fans) hated.” ry. Pandemic can’t stop Crest Hill native story had me rooting for his recovery and Honorable Mention: Herald & Review, 1st Place: Daily Chronicle, DeKalb, from singing. musical life. I especially appreciated his Decatur, Joey Wagner. The story of Kelsey Rettke. Homelessness on the rise 2nd Place: The Hinsdalean, Ken Knutson. hospital room jokes.” ‘JetLife’ and how it pushes Illinois junior in DeKalb County public schools. Lifelong wish granted. Honorable Mention: Belleville Ayo Dosunmu: “This is a terrific story of 2nd Place: The Telegraph, Alton, Jeanie 3rd Place: The Greenville Advocate, News-Democrat, Kelsey Landis. Ed- exploring a hashtag on social media and Stephens. ’Shroom to grow: “I enjoyed Dave Bell. Nelson restoring Second Street wardsville’s George Floyd protest was finding the details behind it. Great job.” learning about the thrill of the hunt from building. peaceful because this 17-year-old made it these adventurers.” Honorable Mention: The Greenville Ad- so: “A touching portrait of a peace seeker CLASS 12 - SPORTS FEATURE 3rd Place: The Southern Illinoisan, Car- vocate, Dave Bell. Phil Davis comfortable working in the midst of violence and bondale, Molly Parker. Southern Illinois’ in secondary role. confusion. The story goes a long way to Division Non Daily sewing warriors: “Nice story telling about explaining this movement’s motives to an uplifting subject at the beginning of Division C those who mistake them.” 1st Place: Journal & Topics Media Group, the pandemic.” Dion Martorano. Lights Out For Hol- Honorable Mention: Centralia Morning 1st Place: Journal & Topics Media Group, CLASS 15 - EDITORIAL PAGE lywood: “The writing fully shows the Sentinel, Connor Wood. Area veterans Lauren Barry. A Cowboy In The Court- heart-wrenching story. It is well-written, saved Europe and the world. room. Division Daily and in the end is a story of hope. Wonder- 2nd Place: The MidWeek, DeKalb, Ka- ful job all the way around!” Division E trina J.E. Milton. Cherished Memories: 1st Place: The News-Gazette, Cham- 2nd Place: Nokomis Free Press-Progress, DeKalb author shares story of her father’s paign, Staff. The News-Gazette: “Nice, Susan McGrath, John Broux. Kimbro 1st Place: Journal Star, Peoria, Phil Lucia- World War II experiences. well-rounded pages with lots of local credits: “I loved reading this story and felt no. A bridge to somewhere -- homeless 3rd Place: The MidWeek, DeKalb, Katrina voices.” like it was about a person many people on the move in Peoria: “An excellent, J.E. Milton. Healing Power: DeKalb veter- 2nd Place: Chicago Sun-Times, Chicago could relate to. For a story to do a man in-depth article at a what homelessness an uses music to help people struggling Sun-Times editorial page staff. Chicago of this accomplishment credit is saying looks like for this group. Not a view often with PTSD. Sun-Times editorial page: “These are something – and it does. A+” exposed.” Honorable Mention: Pioneer Press Me- attractively designed pages with a good 3rd Place: The Hinsdalean, Pamela 2nd Place: The News-Gazette, Cham- dia Group, Chicago, Karen Ann Cullot- mix of well-written content.” Lannom. Fundraiser to help prevent teen paign, Anthony Zilis. ‘He would’ve made ta. Wilmette boys nurture garden, and 3rd Place: Daily Herald Group, Arlington deaths: “This story conveys not only the a great mentor’: “A touching tribute. I friendship, with 81-year-old neighbor Heights, Jim Slusher, Editorial Board. fundraiser, but the reason it is so special appreciate the many voices included in during pandemic. Daily Herald Opinion Page. and also works in the key elements of the article.” Honorable Mention: The Register-Mail, abnormal EKGs. It is hard to do all well, 3rd Place: The News-Gazette, Cham- Division D Galesburg, Tom Martin. The Register-Mail but the writer did so here.” paign, Bob Asmussen. You’re a miracle: Editorial Page. Honorable Mention: The Hinsdalean, “The story had me enthralled. My mouth 1st Place: The Register-Mail, Galesburg, Pamela Lannom. Alum brings home dropped reading about the nurse bring- Tom Martin. ‘It’s how you treat people Division Non Daily Heidecke award: “I just love this story. ing her back to life.” that means a lot.’ It hits home on every level. It doesn’t Honorable Mention: The Herald-News, 2nd Place: Herald & Review, Decatur, 1st Place: The Woodstock Independent, take long into the story for you to want to Joliet, Felix Sarver. Bank robber had ‘rock Tony Reid. How Kate Kurtz spent 5 years Staff. Opinion page: “Clean, neat and know the athlete succeeded. And how she career’ plans: “I was glued to the story pursuing justice for Macon County kids. easy to read, with a great mix of local did was a fantastic story. Job well done.” from the start -– a good telling of an un- 3rd Place: The Register-Mail, Galesburg, editorials, columns and cartoons. Writers usual situation.” Jay Redfern. ‘I absolutely tighten up when focused on their community, which I am CLASS 13 - FEATURE WRITING I see the police.’ sure subscribers appreciate.” Division F Honorable Mention: Centralia Morning 2nd Place: The Hinsdalean, Staff. Edito- Division A Sentinel, Connor Wood. Shimkus reflects rial page: “Another easy-to-read editorial 1st Place: Chicago Sun-Times, Stefano on 24 years in Congress. page. Staff writers, guest writers and read- 1st Place: Robinson Daily News, Randy Esposito. ’25 years later, Fox River Grove ers all given prominent play with their Harrison. Lynching of Zachariah Os- Metra-school bus crash still haunts engi- Division E comments and musings. Good job.” borne: “Compelling and well-researched neer, other survivors’: “This well-crafted 3rd Place: The Journal-News, Hillsboro, series.” story gave me chill bumps. The writer is 1st Place: The News-Gazette, Cham- Staff. Editorial Page: “Probably the best 2nd Place: Du Quoin Evening Call, Renee an excellent storyteller. Great job!” paign, Deb Pressey. ‘Just happy to be me’: local writers of any entry, but lack of a Trappe. ‘This band of brothers.’ 2nd Place: Chicago Sun-Times, Neil “A thoroughly reported profile on a topic local editorial and overall look of the page 3rd Place: Chicago Daily Law Bulletin, Steinberg, Ashlee Rezin Garcia. ‘Our that many would not want to open up kept it from scoring higher.” Sarah Mansur. Stories behind the data. worst day,’ Neil Steinberg, Ashlee Rezin a b o u t .” Honorable Mention: The Navigator, Albi- Honorable Mention: The Woodstock Garcia, Chicago Sun-Times: “Very good 2nd Place: Rockford Register Star, Kevin on, Staff. Navigator Editorial Page entries. Independent, Susan W. Murray. Service description in this story. Upsetting in Haas. He marched with protesters, then dogs to the rescue. places. I’m sure it took an emotional toll worked with cops: “A well-reported and CLASS 16 - on the writer.” harrowing account of a young man who is STORY/SERIES - AGRICULTURAL STORY Division B 3rd Place: Chicago Sun-Times, Maureen sacrificing in order to spread his mes- O’Donnell. ‘A faithful caretaker of the s a g e .” Division Daily 1st Place: The Hinsdalean, Pamela Lan- ‘faithful departed’: “I enjoyed reading this 3rd Place: Journal Star, Peoria, Leslie nom & Ken Knutson. Life will go on after story. There are many stories in the ad Renken. Survivor: “A humanizing story 1st Place: Chicago Sun-Times, Tom loss of a loved one. sections of our papers if we only follow up on someone who may have simply been Schuba. ‘Epic failure’ on legal weed 2nd Place: The Hinsdalean, Pamela Lan- on them! Good storytelling skills.” treated as a statistic during the pandem- licensing in Illinois: “Great coverage of nom. American Beauty. Honorable Mention: Chicago Sun-Times, i c .” pot legalization and how it affects the 3rd Place: The Journal-News, Hillsboro, Caroline Hurley. ‘When pandemic hit, Honorable Mention: The News-Gazette, community.” Tori O’Dell. Mueller Family Builds Log a Chicago jazz icon’s world fell apart’: Champaign, Mary Schenk. All fired up: 2nd Place: Chicago Tribune Media Cabin Together. “Nice story a lot of us probably “A well-reported human interest story Group, Alexia Elejalde-Ruiz. Higher

Page 10 • May 2021 • Illinois Press Association CLASS 22 - FEATURE PHOTO Division B 1st Place: e Greenville Advocate, Dave Bell. Sunset silhouette

CLASS 22 - FEATURE PHOTO Division A CLASS 22 - FEATURE PHOTO Division C 1st Place: e Sidell Reporter, Rinda Maddox. Beck Sisters Walking Hogs 1st Place: e MidWeek, DeKalb, Katrina J.E. Milton. Bundles of Joy

Illinois Press Association • May 2021 • Page 11 prices, fewer options for meat lovers as Georgia Garvey column 2nd Place: Herald & Review, Decatur, devastates two families. coronavirus closes more Illinois meat- Justin Conn. Justin Conn’s columns. 3rd Place: The Telegraph, Alton, Staff. packing plants: “This topic deserved Division D 3rd Place: Chicago Sun-Times, Ben Pope. This Week In Pictures. more national attention. Great job.” Ben Pope, Chicago Sun-Times, A selec- Honorable Mention: Daily Chronicle, 3rd Place: The News-Gazette, Cham- 1st Place: Herald & Review, Decatur, tion of 3 sports columns DeKalb, Mark Busch. Local basketball paign, Anthony Zilis. Where the buffaloes Chris Coates. Chris Coates columns: Honorable Mention: Chicago Sun-Times, teams battle on the court during First roam: “Great way to localize a national “Easy to read, easy to relate to, and enjoy- Steve Greenberg. Steve Greenberg, Chi- National Challenge. issue.” able. I’d bet readers look forward to his cago Sun-Times, a selection of 3 columns. Honorable Mention: The Telegraph, musings. I sure would.” Division E Alton, David Blanchette. Digital Dirt: 2nd Place: The Register-Mail, Galesburg, Division Non Daily “This topic never gets old. There needs to Cyn Kitchen. Cyn Kitchen Columns: 1st Place: Rockford Register Star, Scott be more national attention on technology “Good writing with a good use of words. 1st Place: Bureau County Republican, P. Yates. On the front line fighting and agriculture.” A tough choice in a highly competitive Princeton, Kevin Hieronymus. Kevin COVID-19. category. Illinois readers are lucky.” Hieronymus columns: “Very personable 2nd Place: Northwest Herald, Crystal Division Non Daily 3rd Place: Journal-Courier, Jacksonville, and well-written. The focus on sports Lake, Matthew Apgar. Essential Workers: Laurie Bosworth. Defining the world: “A outside the mainstream of stick-and-ball The New Front Line. 1st Place: The Woodstock Independent, good writer with a good message. What is a great addition. A great formula.” 3rd Place: The News-Gazette, Cham- Tricia Carzoli. ‘They know this is a gam- else could you ask for?” 2nd Place: The Commercial-News, paign, Robin Scholz. Urbana High School ble’: “Enjoyed the read.” Honorable Mention: Daily Chronicle, Danville, Chad Dare. Chad Dare sports during remote learning. 2nd Place: The Woodstock Independent, DeKalb, Kelsey Rettke. To Barry Schrader, columns: “Solid storytelling; writing Honorable Mention: The News-Gazette, Tricia Carzoli. ‘It feels like what we re- for passing the baton. style is easy to follow with an everyday Champaign, Robin Scholz. Frightfest. member’: “Enjoyable read. You captured approach.” the emotion.” Division E 3rd Place: The Greenville Advocate, Rog- CLASS 20 - SPOT NEWS PHOTO 3rd Place: Peoria County Chronicle, Tim er Sanders. Blowin’ Smoke. Alexander. Corn farmers can’t escape 1st Place: The News-Gazette, Cham- Honorable Mention: The Journal-News, Division A reach of COVID-19: “Nice lead. Enjoyed paign, Jay Simpson. Jay’s Take: “Jay Simp- Hillsboro, Kyle Herschelman. Center and the read.” son writes with candor, clarity and moral Guard: “Columns are easy to digest and 1st Place: Cass County Star-Gazette, Honorable Mention: Cass County authority on guns sold to children on the taps into the hometown vibe – outstand- Beardstown, Brian DeLoche. Turning Star-Gazette, Beardstown, Brian De- street and fatherless homes in the Black ing.” up the volume: “Solid composition in a Loche. Shucks!: “Enjoyed the read. Nice community, sharing his own experiences dramatic instant.” story with good art.” to address these societal issues from a CLASS 19 - PHOTO SERIES 2nd Place: The Navigator, Albion, T.J. personal perspective. Simpson knows Hug. Nose-diving semi-truck. CLASS 17 - ORIGINAL COLUMN how to make a point without preaching. Division A 3rd Place: Oakland Independent, Janice Exceptional work.” Hunt. Sunday morning coming down. Division A 2nd Place: The Herald-News, Joliet, Bill 1st Place: Cass County Star-Gazette, Honorable Mention: Rosemont Journal, Wimbiscus. Columns by Bill Wimbiscus: Beardstown, Brian DeLoche. Shucks! Rich Day. Rosemont Rainbow. 1st Place: Porter Publishing, David “Bill Wimbiscus’ wry ‘Midlife Circus’ Bringing in the crop the old fashioned Porter. Ramblin’ Man: “When I grow up, columns are a delight. His expansive way: “Enjoyable photos to view, on a very Division B I want to write funny columns like David vocabulary and quick wit are pressed into well laid-out page.” Porter. My side still hurts from laughing.” service in send-ups of everyday absurdi- 2nd Place: Oakland Independent, Janice 1st Place: The Greenville Advocate, Dave 2nd Place: The Marion Republican, Holly ties that resonate with the reader.” Hunt. Fall is in the air: “Enjoyed these Bell. Paving parade: “Not a typical spot Kee. Holly Kee columns: “The writer did 3rd Place: Journal Star, Peoria, Phil photos, as well as the photographer’s news photo, but that’s the point, right? a good job of finding hope within a world Luciano. Phil Luciano columns: “Phil words in the captions.” These two paving workers are so non- of gloom.” Luciano strikes the right balance between 3rd Place: The Woodstock Independent, plussed by their machinery that they 3rd Place: Beecher City Journal, PJ Ryan. reporting and commentary in these Ken Farver, Tricia Carzoli. Groundhog could be having a chat anywhere.” Pokin’ Along With P.J. thorough columns that employ narra- Days: “I wish the top photo on the second 2nd Place: The Hinsdalean, Jim Slonoff. Honorable Mention: The Woodstock tive storytelling to lead readers to his page had been placed on the first – it was Transformer fails: “Not a lot of excite- Independent, Paul Lockwood. Smell well-reasoned conclusions.” by far the best.” ment shown here, but it’s a nice character the roses even if through a mask; Facing Honorable Mention: Northwest Herald, Honorable Mention: El Paso Journal, study of a first responder doing his job. human racism today. Crystal Lake, Jon Styf. Styf columns: “Jon Cara Howard. Together We Swim: “Really So often photographers focus on the fire Styf’s clarion call for transparency in a nice swim photos!” – because it is a powerful image – and not Division B police homicide investigation shows the on other surroundings.” Northwest Herald to be a zealous advo- Division B 3rd Place: Republic-Times, Waterloo, 1st Place: Cook County Chronicle, Chi- cate for the public’s right to know.” Alan Dooley. After the Storm: “The dog cago, Irv Leavitt. Original Column: “Irv 1st Place: The Journal-News, Hillsboro, here pays no attention to the destruction Leavitt’s columns are a pleasure to read, Division F Kyle Herschelman. State Wrestling Tour- behind him. That makes for a nice con- offering detailed perspective that is both nament: “All nice images here. My only trast in what otherwise would have been thought-provoking and a tribute to peo- 1st Place: Chicago Sun-Times, Mary disappointment was the way the best of a routine picture.” ple and matters worth a closer look.” Mitchell. Mary Mitchell, A selection of the photos was cropped and played at Honorable Mention: Kane County 2nd Place: Des Plaines Journal, Todd 3 columns: “A powerfully worded trip the bottom of page A1. In my opinion it Chronicle, St. Charles, Eric Schelkopf. Wessell. Time To Shed Light On Library; through some of the harshest scenes deserved bigger and better display.” Aurora on fire after protests: “An interest- ComEd, Do What’s Right: “Todd Wessell 2020 could offer. These columns are told 2nd Place: The Hinsdalean, Jim Slonoff. ing contrast of law enforcement officers shines light on community issues that with cadence, voice, character and deep Village residents pitch in to open roads: seemingly unaffected by the burning matter — a covered-up bed bug problem emotion, giving the reader a clearly stated “A good series of shots here, but I felt like debris behind them.” at the local library and its overreac- and nuanced point of view.” the best of the five images – the little boy tive banishment of a retiree accused of 2nd Place: Chicago Sun-Times, Ismael holding his daddy’s hand while the family Division D carrying a magazine from its designated Perez. 3 columns by Ismael Perez, Chica- views the damage – ought to have been room, as well as shenanigans by the local go Sun-Times: “The writer’s personality at the top of the page instead of buried at 1st Place: The Telegraph, Alton, John electric company balking about bury- and life experience show through in these the bottom.” Badman. River rescue. ing power lines for children’s safety in a intimate columns, told with passion and 3rd Place: The Journal-News, Hillsboro, 2nd Place: The Telegraph, Alton, John p a r k .” honesty.” Kyle Herschelman. HHS Graduation: “A Badman. Gunshot victim. 3rd Place: The Greenville Advocate, Dave 3rd Place: Daily Herald Group, Arlington good variety of images, but I would have 3rd Place: The Telegraph, Alton, John Bell. Dave Bell columns – March 10, Sept. Heights, Jim Slusher. Letter To Readers: like to have seen more reaction like the Badman. Rooftop arrest. 29, and Dec. 29 Advocate: “Dave Bell’s “These eloquent columns speak directly one celebrating senior.” Honorable Mention: The Telegraph, columns are thoughtful, detailed and to the reader without a flinch. Detailed Honorable Mention: The Hinsdalean, Alton, John Badman. Raging House Fire. relevant to the times.” and emotional reads to the end.” Jim Slonoff. Checking in with the big guy: Honorable Mention: The Hinsdalean, Honorable Mention: Chicago Tribune “It’s hard to beat pics of cute kids, but the Division E Pamela Lannom. Pamela Lannom: “Pa- Media Group, Staff. Heidi Stevens col- sameness of these images tends to dull mela Lannom relates well to readers with umns: “These columns focus on the most their overall impact.” 1st Place: Rockford Register Star, Scott P. her columns. I especially enjoyed her satisfying subject matter a newspaper can Yates. Fire destroys Loves Park apartment detailed one about why the newspaper offer: real people. Full of heart.” Division D building: “The emotion captured in the is sticking by its practice of publishing foreground combined with the burned names in police reports.” CLASS 18 - SPORTS COLUMN 1st Place: Herald & Review, Decatur, Clay apartment in the background makes this Jackson. In Touch With Nature: “Inspir- my top choice.” Division C Division Daily ing display of photography. Absolutely 2nd Place: The News-Gazette, Cham- beautiful.” paign, Robin Scholz. For the win: “Lots 1st Place: Pioneer Press Media Group, 1st Place: The Pantagraph, Bloomington, 2nd Place: Daily Chronicle, DeKalb, Mark going on in this scene, but the photog- Chicago, Georgia Garvey. Randy Kindred. Randy Kindred columns. Busch. Consequences after fatal DUI rapher did a good job of capturing the

Page 12 • May 2021 • Illinois Press Association CLASS 22 - FEATURE PHOTO Division E CLASS 22 - FEATURE PHOTO Division F 1st Place: Northwest Herald, Crystal Lake, Matthew Apgar. Fishing at sunrise 1st Place: Chicago Sun-Times, Tyler Lariviere. ‘My kind of town’

CLASS 22 - FEATURE PHOTO Division D 1st Place: Herald & Review, Decatur, Clay Jackson. Fall on Lake Decatur

Illinois Press Association • May 2021 • Page 13 moment and framing the image.” nothing better in life than sharing a Division B Derik Holtmann. Vote and dance. 3rd Place: The News-Gazette, Cham- laugh!” 3rd Place: Belleville News-Democrat, paign, Robin Scholz. Sad goodbye: 1st Place: The Greenville Advocate, Dave Derik Holtmann. Walking through sun- “Might look like a pretty simple shot, but Division C Bell. Sunset silhouette. flowers. the framing and angle of the image are 2nd Place: The Journal-News, Hillsboro, Honorable Mention: Belleville what makes this shot good. A reporter or 1st Place: Journal & Topics Media Group, Mike Plunkett. They’re Off To See The News-Democrat, Derik Holtmann. A mili- photographer might have easily captured Shawn Clisham. Breathe In, Breathe Out. Wizard At Drive-In. tary wave. this at another angle that wouldn’t have 2nd Place: The MidWeek, DeKalb, Ka- 3rd Place: Kane County Chronicle, St. shown the same emotion.” trina J.E. Milton. Staying Connected. Charles, Sandy Bressner. Sunny grad. CLASS 23 - PORTRAIT/PERSONALITY Honorable Mention: Rockford Register 3rd Place: Journal & Topics Media Group, Honorable Mention: The Hinsdalean, Star, Scott P. Yates. Fire at former Atwood Shawn Clisham. Hand in Hand. Jim Slonoff. It takes a village. Division A industrial building in Rockford: “I’m not Honorable Mention: The MidWeek, sure if there was a barrier keeping the DeKalb, Katrina J.E. Milton. Parade of Division C 1st Place: Oakland Independent, Janice photographer in a certain location, but Power. Hunt. Retiring police chief: “A very telling this could have easily been first place 1st Place: The MidWeek, DeKalb, Katrina portrait. The town he has watched over with slightly different framing.” Division D J.E. Milton. Bundles of Joy: “This photo since 1989 sits in the background, but the has strong human interest, and does a focus is on the man himself. Well-framed Division F 1st Place: The Telegraph, Alton, John great job capturing the mother’s tired photo!” Badman. Distant farewell. smile.” 2nd Place: The Lexingtonian, Laurie 1st Place: Daily Herald Group, Arlington 2nd Place: Herald & Review, Decatur, 2nd Place: The MidWeek, DeKalb, Ka- Sleeter. Photographer Jerry Druhan: Heights, Rick West. Protest Prayer: “The Clay Jackson. Justice Walk. trina J.E. Milton. Polarpalooza: “Tough “Creative idea to spotlight those that are composition of the photo is amazing and 3rd Place: Daily Chronicle, DeKalb, Mark shot in the snow! Great job capturing the normally the ones spotlighting others. creates a very moving image.” Busch. Victim’s father attends trial. toddler’s expression of concentration.” Great narrative, with Jerry Druhan’s pos- 2nd Place: Chicago Sun-Times, Ashlee Honorable Mention: Daily Chronicle, 3rd Place: The MidWeek, DeKalb, Ka- ing in front of his life’s work.” Rezin Garcia. ‘Police, protesters clash DeKalb, Mark Busch. Black Lives Matter trina J.E. Milton. Valentine’s Day: “Great 3rd Place: The Woodstock Independent, outside looted store, No. 2’ Ashlee Rezin group protest police brutality. subject! The angle really captures her Tricia Carzoli. Fall Guy: “It’s always good Garcia: “This is a great photo because it happiness.” to look back at a landmark that brought shows the emotions being felt on both Division E certain areas to national prominence. The sides.” Division D benefit of having the original stunt man 3rd Place: Belleville News-Democrat, 1st Place: The News-Gazette, Cham- from the scene makes this photo stand Derik Holtmann. Sauget warehouse fire: paign, Robin Scholz. COVID concert: 1st Place: Herald & Review, Decatur, Clay o u t .” “From the framing of the image, you can “The contrast between the two people in Jackson. Fall on Lake Decatur: “In a com- Honorable Mention: Oakland Inde- tell just how massive this fire was. And this image is incredible. It clearly shows petition of excellent photos, this image pendent, Janice Hunt. Mum’s the word: you can almost feel the struggle firefight- the emotional side of social distancing.” still stood out. Not only is it a fascinating “Clever headline. Foliage is always ers were having in fighting it.” 2nd Place: Northwest Herald, Crystal shot, but all of the things around the pel- welcome on what can be otherwise-drab Honorable Mention: Chicago Sun-Times, Lake, Matthew Apgar. Black Lives Matter ican are just as alluring as the bird itself. pages in a newspaper.” Tyler Lariviere. Tyler Lariviere, ‘My kind rally in Fox River Grove: “The emotion Excellent job.” of town’: “Great work by the photogra- on the woman’s face is so clear that you 2nd Place: The Telegraph, Alton, John Division B pher to capture the right moment show- don’t even need a caption to understand Badman. Leaf me alone: “What an abso- ing the wall of officers with the words in this photo.” lutely wonderful angle to take the photo. 1st Place: The Journal-News, Hillsboro, the background.” 3rd Place: The State Journal-Register, It shows everything necessary and makes Tori O’Dell. Sewing Skills Continue Springfield, Justin Fowler. The Mayor, the common place interesting. Beautiful To Pay Off For Tucker: “There is a very CLASS 21 - GENERAL NEWS PHOTO COVID-19, and the Mask: “Catching the i m a g e .” earthy, organic quality to this shot but mayor at just the right moment with his 3rd Place: The Southern Illinoisan, also something very joyful. The woman Division A head bowed and the chart showing the Carbondale, Isaac Smith. Housing issues: sewer and her genuine smile, the old significant increases in COVID tells the “This image truly shows life, but it is cap- sewing machine, even the florescent 1st Place: Palatine Journal & Topics, story. Great instinct by the photographer.” tivating in every way. There is something lights all contribute. A lot of emotion for a Shawn Clisham. In Remembrance: “What Honorable Mention: Northwest Her- that draws you to it and it couldn’t have posed shot. Excellent.” a powerful photo. Nicely framed. Full of ald, Crystal Lake, Matthew Apgar. Mark been framed better.” 2nd Place: The Journal-News, Hillsboro, emotion. Well done!” Amore dedication: “Three generations Honorable Mention: The Register-Mail, Bethany Martin. Mathews Learns To Lego 2nd Place: Plano Record, Shea Lazansky. of grief captured in one moment. Very Galesburg, Steven Davis. Small Town During Break: “This shot just made smile. Enoch Scull turns 96: “Respect never goes heartbreaking.” Hoops: “It would have been so easy to The old Legos, the cat and the cat box in out of style. Great photo, but it would have taken this photo from a “normal” the background, and the simple smile on have been nice to be able to see the face Division F angle. Excellent work to show just how Mary Ellen’s face. Simplicity sometimes Mr. Scull is saluting.” dedicated the athlete was and what the just works in photography.” 3rd Place: Mason County Democrat, 1st Place: Daily Herald Group, Arlington conditions of the workout were.” 3rd Place: Kane County Chronicle, St. Havana, Wendy Martin. Rad Grad: “It is Heights, Brian Hill. Centenarian’s COVID Charles, Sandy Bressner. Empty church- sad that graduations have had to go this Birthday: “A jarring photo that, though Division E es: “The lighting, the austere setting, and route, but the graduate and his canine depicting with joy and celebration, ex- that feeling we’ve all had during COVID companion do not seem to mind. Nice pressed the dystopian nature of 2020.” 1st Place: Northwest Herald, Crystal of emptiness and confusion all came to photo!” 2nd Place: Chicago Sun-Times, Ashlee Lake, Matthew Apgar. Fishing at sunrise: me as I kept coming back to this photo. Honorable Mention: Mason County Rezin Garcia. ‘After a daughter’s shooting “Beautiful shot and effort to capture ear- Gorgeous.” Democrat, Havana, Wendy Martin. How death,’ Ashlee Rezin Garcia: “A heartfelt ly-rising fisher-people with the sunrise.” Honorable Mention: The Hinsdalean, do you tear down …: “Tightly cropped, portrait of a man and son left behind to 2nd Place: NewsTribune, La Salle, Scott Jim Slonoff. Victory lap: “I’ve seen a lot but it does solve the age-old question of pick up the pieces.” Anderson. Drive-Thru Graduation: of these type photos but this one had an how to tear down a silo. Timing is every- 3rd Place: Daily Herald Group, Arling- “Photo skillfully sums up a challenging element of emotion to it. The technical thing with this photo. Nice work.” ton Heights, John Starks. COVID Seder: year for students and graduates alike. It’s aspects — the cropping, the reflection “A candid peek at the way families have a vividly upbeat image making the most on the car’s hood, the vivid colors — are Division B quietly changed their entire lives over the of a celebratory milestone during COVID great. As for the subject, it appears the past year.” restrictions.” young lady is kind of teary-eyed, plus the 1st Place: The Hinsdalean, Jim Slo- Honorable Mention: Daily Herald Group, 3rd Place: NewsTribune, La Salle, Tom fact that she’s thanking her teachers, gives noff. Science can be a laughing matter: Arlington Heights, Rick West. Mourner Sistak. Social Distanced Diplomas: it feeling. Nice reminder of what COVID “Instead of focusing on the amazing salutes: “A visceral look at what everyone “Creative shot showing what it was like to has done to our normal routines.” trick accomplished by the performer, the will recognize as a final goodbye.” graduate during the pandemic.” photographer pulled off a masterful feat Honorable Mention: Northwest Herald, Division C of their own by capturing the real reason CLASS 22 - FEATURE PHOTO Crystal Lake, Matthew Apgar. Waiting for for this event – entertaining the children.” a trim: “Kudos to the photographer for 1st Place: The MidWeek, DeKalb, Katrina 2nd Place: Kane County Chronicle, St. Division A capturing this timely community scene of J.E. Milton. The Holbrooks. Charles, Sandy Bressner. Seniors helping men converging early at the local barber- 2nd Place: The MidWeek, DeKalb, Ka- seniors: “Powerful portrait of love.” 1st Place: The Sidell Reporter, Rinda shop to finally await their turns for a trim trina J.E. Milton. Lynden Bute. 3rd Place: Mt. Prospect Journal, Shawn Maddox. Beck Sisters Walking Hogs. during the age of COVID.” 3rd Place: The MidWeek, DeKalb, Katrina Clisham. Honoring A Veteran: “A simple 2nd Place: Downers Grove Suburban J.E. Milton. Barn Quilt. photo with a deeper meaning ¬¬¬– What Life, Sandy Bressner. Lovebirds. Division F memories are running through the mind 3rd Place: Berwyn Suburban Life, Sandy Division D of this veteran behind those piercing Bressner. Mom’s Birthday. 1st Place: Chicago Sun-Times, Tyler Lar- eyes?” Honorable Mention: The Lexingtonian, iviere. ‘My kind of town’: “A powerful take 1st Place: The Telegraph, Alton, Jeanie Honorable Mention: Des Plaines Journal, Laurie Sleeter. Cozy Baby. on a troubling moment.” Stephens. The man is nonstop. Shawn Clisham. Fun With Papa: “There’s 2nd Place: Belleville News-Democrat, 2nd Place: Daily Chronicle, DeKalb,

Page 14 • May 2021 • Illinois Press Association CLASS 23 - PORTRAIT/PERSONALITY Division A 1st Place: Oakland Independent, Janice Hunt. Retiring police chief

CLASS 23 - PORTRAIT/PERSONALITY Division B 1st Place: e Journal-News, Hillsboro, Tori O’Dell. Sewing Skills

CLASS 23 - PORTRAIT/PERSONALITY Division C 1st Place: e MidWeek, DeKalb, Katrina J.E. Milton. e Holbrooks.

CLASS 23 - PORTRAIT/PERSONALITY Division D 1st Place: e Telegraph, Alton, Jeanie Stephens. e man is nonstop.

Illinois Press Association • May 2021• Page 15 Mark Busch. Black Lives Matter protester Division B ald-Whig, Jake Shane. Monroe City/Pal- setup to capture this as the wrestlers are portrait. myra Football: “Good ‘catch’ of the midair warming up for practice.” 3rd Place: The Register-Mail, Galesburg, 1st Place: The Hinsdalean, Jim Slonoff. action at a local high school football Steven Davis. Jody Rody in Color. I believe I can fly: “Good shot. I like the game during what has been a challenging CLASS 26 - Honorable Mention: Daily Chronicle, title. Really interested to know what the year for sports.” ONLINE PHOTO SERIES/GALLERY DeKalb, Mark Busch. Black leaders spark story is about.” conversation. 2nd Place: Republic-Times, Waterloo, Division F Division Daily Alan Dooley. Bulldogs Lose Their Grip: Division E “Block or charge. Can feel the pain and 1st Place: Daily Herald Group, Arlington 1st Place: The Southern Illinoisan, Car- effort just by seeing your photo.” Heights, Mark Welsh. Rush for Glory: bondale, Staff. Southern Illinois reacts 1st Place: Journal Star, Peoria, Matt Day- 3rd Place: The Journal-News, Hillsboro, “Stupendous! The emotional content is to the death of George Floyd: “A host of hoff. Homelessness in Peoria: “Aside from Kyle Herschelman. Topper Senior Earns off the chain for the squad as well as the stunning photos of the George Floyd being a technically solid image, this shot Second Shot At Sectional: “Good action gentleman holding the trophy. You can protests. Well done.” is also powerful portraiture of a sensitive shot. Like seeing the facial expressions.” feel and see the passion in this captivat- 2nd Place: Rockford Register Star, Scott subject that manages to show emotion Honorable Mention: Republic-Times, ing image.” P. Yates. Images from four months of pro- and personality and lend humanity to a Waterloo, John Spytek. Air Hockey: “Good 2nd Place: Daily Herald Group, Arling- tests in Rockford: “A dramatic photo essay tough story.” action captured.” ton Heights, Dancers Take Flight. Rick of various protests. Photos showed imag- 2nd Place: Journal Star, Peoria, David West: “Visually captivating, like ballet for inative angles, expressions and situation. Zalaznik. Window reading: “Excellent Division C still imagery. Beautifully composed and Good cutlines to explain the scenes.” composition and a unique angle that rhythmic.” 3rd Place: Rockford Register Star, Scott P. manages to communicate an incredible 1st Place: Journal & Topics Media Group, 3rd Place: Daily Herald Group, Arling- Yates. On the front line of one Rockford amount of information through the de- Dion Martorano. A Blast Of Color: “Great ton Heights, Championship Hug. Mark hospital’s COVID-19 response: “Nice tails in the frame.” shot. A case of being in the right spot at Welsh: “Nothing brings out the good feel- photos of the front lines of hospital work- 3rd Place: Rockford Register Star, Scott P. the right time.” ings like winning, and this photo captures ers in the midst of the pandemic. Told the Yates. Rockford’s most polarizing protest- 2nd Place: Journal & Topics Media the spirit of victory. The photographer story of their day well.” er: “A stunning image that required the Group, Dion Martorano. Fun At Softball does a great job of freezing the moment Honorable Mention: The Register-Mail, photographer to earn the trust and buy-in Camp: “Photo shows the joy of rec ball in time.” Galesburg, William Weaver IV. Black Lives of the subject, and incredibly valuable and being a child.” Honorable Mention: Daily Herald Matter Protest: “Loved the black-and- companion to the profile.” 3rd Place: Journal & Topics Media Group, Group, Arlington Heights, Concentrating white photos- – the subtle color message Honorable Mention: Quincy Her- Dion Martorano. State Champs: “Fantas- on Beam. Patrick Kunzer: “The focus on heightens the drama of the protests. A ald-Whig, Jake Shane. The Mountaintop: tic shot. The joy is clear in their faces. It the gymnast’s eyes as she concentrates nice variety of shots.” “Excellent lighting and composition was hard to decide between second and on the beam is essential to this image’s combine to create a stunning image that third place.” success.” Division Non Daily shows an incredible depth of humanity.” Honorable Mention: Journal & Topics Media Group, Dion Martorano. Big Block: CLASS 25 - 1st Place: Sandwich Record, Shea Lazan- Division F “Good shot that clearly shows the action.” SPORTS PHOTO - PORTRAIT/PERSONALITY sky. Over 200 join Black Lives Matter rally in Sandwich: “A nice variety of photos 1st Place: Belleville News-Democrat, Division D Division Daily showing what our country has been going Derik Holtmann. Danielle Washington: through politically in the past year.” “I love the determination and confidence 1st Place: Daily Chronicle, DeKalb, Mark 1st Place: Sauk Valley Media, Alex T. 2nd Place: Kane County Chronicle, St. in her face. The bright pop of color in her Busch. Touchdown dive: “This is hands Paschal. Making a splash: “This is the Charles, Sandy Bressner. Seniors help- clothes works well against the contrast of down, in my opinion, the best action most striking and artistic of the entries, ing seniors: “An important subject that the city scene behind her.” photo in the category. The composition, with the highest degree of difficulty. The reflects how the country has dealt with 2nd Place: Daily Herald Group, Arling- the cropping, the horizontal leap to the angle and shape of the water, like a liquid seniors in the COVID-19 pandemic. Nice ton Heights, Feeling Strong. Rick West: pylon, the athlete’s eyes, his concentra- lightning bolt against the barely lit back- shots.” “I smiled right along with this little boy tion, all come together for just a fantastic ground, makes it pop.” 3rd Place: Kendall County Record, when I saw this photo! Good place to take shot.” 2nd Place: Daily Chronicle, DeKalb, Mark Yorkville, Shea Lazansky. Gallery: Drive this pic and show his sports collections.” 2nd Place: The Register-Mail, Gales- Busch. Girls bowling Player of the Year: in to the future: “Graduations all over the 3rd Place: Belleville News-Democrat, burg, Steven Davis. Conference Champs “The medals instantly draw the eye, but country had to improvise in 2020 due to Derik Holtmann. Inside the pub: “I like Celebrate: “I just kept coming back to this the composition then pulls the eye into the pandemic and this essay has some the composition on this one, how only photo and almost laughing out loud. If the subject. It may also be that holding up dramatic shots of the graduates. Well one person has on a mask.” you’re going to submit a victory celebra- all those medals drew out a certain pride done.” Honorable Mention: Daily Herald Group, tion photo — and there were several very of accomplishment that elevates the Honorable Mention: Kane County Arlington Heights, Attacked Teacher. Bri- good ones in this category — it better subject’s smile.” Chronicle, St. Charles, Sandy Bressner. an Hill: “I can see the stress on her face. be good and it better be different. This is 3rd Place: NewsTribune, La Salle, Scott Essential: “Though the photos are posed, Nice shot.” both. Every kid in the room is going crazy. Anderson. Female Swimmer Of The Year: they showcase important workers that Nice shot!” “The reflection above her makes the don’t often get the limelight.” CLASS 24 - SPORTS PHOTO 3rd Place: Journal-Courier, Jacksonville, photo stand out. Good composition. The Dennis Mathes. All-out effort: “What can image fills the frame, no wasted space.” CLASS 27 - VIDEO JOURNALISM Division A you say about this photo that the photo Honorable Mention: Daily Chronicle, itself doesn’t? Just too cute, too funny. DeKalb, Mark Busch. Girls tennis Player Division Daily 1st Place: The Harrisburg Register, Great timing, and the kid keeping his eyes of the Year. Michael “Spyder” Dann. Bombs Away: open was magical.” 1st Place: Chicago Sun-Times, Rachel “What a moment for Ben Brombaugh and Honorable Mention: Sauk Valley Media, Division Non Daily Hinton, Ashlee Rezin Garcia, Brian Rich, his teammates – captured forever. The Alex T. Paschal. Oh Deer: “Sometimes Brian Ernst. ‘Resettlement, reunification basketball shot was money, and so too is journalism photography is part luck. So 1st Place: The Journal-News, Hillsboro, and romance’: “Beautiful story shared this image. Congratulations!” it is with this photograph, which I’m sure Kyle Herschelman. Carlile, Thomas Are through different video clips. Very good 2nd Place: El Paso Journal, Cara How- everyone who saw it shared with a friend. Bound For State: “The timing to capture interviews with personal information, ard. Freestyle swimmer: “Ethan Krugger Good stuff.” this photo cannot be discussed enough. followed by statistics that showed how is captured in splendid detail, a shot of Excellent work and a portrait Jefferson this touches so many lives and that the sure aim when the swim meet itself was Division E Thomas and his family will cherish forev- community is so welcoming. Great job!” anything but because of the pandemic. er (which is why we do what we do).” 2nd Place: The News-Gazette, Cham- Fine work!” 1st Place: Journal Star, Peoria, Matt 2nd Place: The Journal-News, Hillsboro, paign, Anthony Zilis. Behind the scenes 3rd Place: Downers Grove Suburban Life, Dayhoff. Peoria Fight Club: “The photo Kyle Herschelman. COVID Is a Double of Champaign County’s early voting: Sandy Bressner. Disappointment: “There skillfully conveys the training going on Bogie: “A close contender for first place. “This was almost number one. Great job are many moments in a season that are in the boxing ring, contrasted with the The hoodie is clever and the photo is sharing information on early voting. It more raw than others – among them juxtaposition of the practicing red-gloved nicely timed; a chip shot is never easy to gave answers to viewers that they normal- the first game, a rivalry, and certainly its shadow boxer awaiting his turn.” frame.” ly wouldn’t have. It left me wanting more ending. Readers can share the agony, and 2nd Place: Journal Star, Peoria, Matt 3rd Place: The Journal-News, Hillsboro, info about the challenges faced by Blacks empathize, for Benet through this image. Dayhoff. Pop the cork: “Skillful content Kyle Herschelman. Where There’s A Will, responsible in that office, while you Good work behind the camera.” and capture of the football player’s cele- There’s A Champion: “Great headline and could see the organization was extremely Honorable Mention: Coal City Courant, bratory moment during what has been a a telling photo of a historic moment for efficient.” Shawn Long. Jason Garrelts: “Clear look challenging year for sports.” Litchfield’s wrestling.” 3rd Place: Rockford Register Star, Scott P. for Jason Garrelts, and for the photogra- 3rd Place: The News-Gazette, Cham- Honorable Mention: The Hinsdalean, Yates. People to Watch in 2020: “Great in- pher. Well done!” paign, Robin Scholz. Rim rattler: “Love Jim Slonoff. Bringing growth from the sight into several different organizations. the up-close capture and emotion of this grind: “Jason Hayes is at the helm of A very diverse group sharing idea for the freshman ace’s slam-dunk.” not only the Hinsdale Central wrestling future. Great job!” Honorable Mention: Quincy Her- program, but this photo, as well. Great Honorable Mention: Rockford Register

Page 16 • May 2021 • Illinois Press Association CLASS 23 - PORTRAIT/PERSONALITY Division E 1st Place: Journal Star, Peoria, Matt Dayho . Homelessness in Peoria

CLASS 23 - PORTRAIT/PERSONALITY Division F 1st Place: Belleville News-Democrat, Derik Holtmann. Danielle Washington

CLASS 24 - SPORTS PHOTO Division A 1st Place:  e Harrisburg Register, Michael “Spyder” Dann. Bombs away

CLASS 24 - SPORTS PHOTO Division B 1st Place:  e Hinsdalean, Jim Slono . I believe I can  y

Illinois Press Association • May 2021 • Page 17 Star, Kevin Haas, Scott P. Yates. Arrests on “Graphic easy to understand. The content chatter down the rail.” design, layout, and good use of photos.” video spur excessive force complaints: of the bullets was a little challenging in 3rd Place: DuPage County Chronicle, “Excellent job with breaking news video that there was not enough contract with Division B Wheaton, Jack McCarthy. “Well orga- and follow up that made a difference.” the white font and grey font outline to the nized and good look. Would like more whites and flesh tones in the background 1st Place: The Journal-News, Hillsboro, uniformity in font size (older readers have CLASS 28 - picture.” Kyle Herschelman, Mary (Galer) Her- difficulty with smaller fonts).” DISTINGUISHED COVERAGE OF DIVERSITY Honorable Mention: The Journal-News, schelman. Nokomis Implement: “Cre- Honorable Mention: The Navigator, Al- Hillsboro, Kyle Herschelman. Detmers ative layout and strong use of pictures. bion, Staff. “I thought the use of the term Division Daily Angels: “Probably would have went with One of the keys to a good design is that ‘Area Deaths’ for the obits was interesting. a solid background or a contrasting color it invites readers into a story, and this I liked the layout and the spacing of con- 1st Place: Belleville News-Democrat, for the text to pop.” certainly does that. Well done!” tent – ads versus reader interest. Overall Staff. Diversity coverage in southwestern 2nd Place: The Hinsdalean, Jim Slonoff. good look.” Illinois. Division D Fine Arts Festival returns: “Nice clean 2nd Place: Chicago Sun-Times, Maud- layout and a strong use of photography.” Division B lyne Ihejirika. Maudlyne Iherijika, ‘Chica- 1st Place: Journal-Courier, Jacksonville, 3rd Place: The Journal-News, Hillsboro, go Chronicles.’ David C.L. Bauer. Coronavirus: What you Kyle Herschelman. Journal-News Sports: 1st Place: The Hinsdalean, Jim Slonoff. 3rd Place: Daily Herald Group, Arlington should know. “It’s obvious the designer had a good time 2nd Place: The Journal-News, Hillsboro, Heights, Madhu Krishnamurthy. Daily 2nd Place: The Telegraph, Alton, Jeanie putting together this page. Nice feature Staff. Herald Coverage of the Suburban Mosaic. Stephens. Razing Alton. p a c k a g e .” Honorable Mention: The Register-Mail, 3rd Place: Journal-Courier, Jacksonville, Honorable Mention: The Hinsdalean, Division D Galesburg, Staff. Black Voices of Gales- David C.L. Bauer. How Christmas are Jim Slonoff. Giving Dad his due: “I know burg. you? this was a page that people in the com- 1st Place: The Telegraph, Alton, Staff. munity enjoyed because of its use of local CLASS 28 - Division E folks. Nicely done.” Division E DISTINGUISHED COVERAGE OF DIVERSITY 1st Place: The News-Gazette, Cham- Division D 1st Place: Quincy Herald-Whig, Staff: Division Non Daily paign, Jeff D’Alessio, Jim Rossow. Latin “Nice, clean design with a good use of America links aplenty: “I love the flags of 1st Place: Herald & Review, Decatur, white space and visually interesting cen- 1st Place: The Hinsdalean, Ken Knut- each country showing the reach of alums Staff. A1 design: “Eye-catching design.” terpieces.” son. Coverage of diversity: “The hope is and their influences across Latin Ameri- 2nd Place: Herald & Review, Decatur, 2nd Place: The News-Gazette, Cham- that Ken Knutson’s commitment to the ca. Great job!” Staff. Oct. 17-18 Herald & Review: “Visu- paign, Staff: “Some interesting packages diverse voices he’s encountered spreads 2nd Place: The News-Gazette, Cham- ally arresting graphic.” in these pages, particularly the My Turns.” among his colleagues and in the commu- paign, Jeff D’Alessio, Mike Goebel. Elec- 3rd Place: The Southern Illinoisan, Car- nity.” tion Questions and Answers: “Great guide bondale, Staff. The Southern Illinoisan Division F 2nd Place: Park Ridge Herald-Advocate, for voters!” single page design – A1: “Visually appeal- Jennifer Johnson, Karen Ann Cullotta, 3rd Place: The News-Gazette, Cham- ing use of the centerpiece graphic.” 1st Place: Chicago Sun-Times, Chicago Kimberly Fornek. ‘Suburban protests paign, Jeff D’Alessio, Mike Goebel. CEO U Honorable Mention: Daily Chronicle, Sun-Times staff: “The pages pop really against racial injustice awakened many Honorable Mention: The News-Gazette, DeKalb, Inger Koch. Shining Bright: “Cre- pop, from photo use and headlines to white residents”’: “Insightful wrapup Champaign, Jeff D’Alessio, Mike Goebel. ative – draws the reader in.” overall design. Sleek, clean look overall, of how various communities banded Askin’ you to be maskin’. though the tabloid format seems to drive together to push for change.” Division E designers on some pages to play photos 3rd Place: Chenoa Town Crier, Jeffer- Division F awfully small.” son Williams, Laurie Sleeter. Hope and 1st Place: The News-Gazette, Cham- 2nd Place: Daily Herald Group, Arlington Healing. 1st Place: Chicago Sun-Times, Akiko paign, Mike Goebel. Scene Stealers: Heights, Staff: “Overall strong design, Honorable Mention: The Woodstock Spencer. ‘10 more men of steal’: “Any “Great use of space, color and fonts to clean presentation and good use of pho- Independent, Larry Lough. Racism ‘bub- preps fan will want to study this great really catch the reader’s attention. And I tos. It has a slightly more crowded, dated bling under the surface’? follow-up to a previous feature, if only to love the measuring tape addition. Nice look than the first-place entry.” find out how certain standouts fared in touch.” CLASS 29 - INFORMATIONAL GRAPHIC their careers.” 2nd Place: The News-Gazette, Cham- CLASS 32 - HEADLINE WRITING 2nd Place: Chicago Tribune Media paign, Mike Goebel. A word of wisdom: Division A Group, Staff. Graphics on behavior and “Great use of fonts, responses and layout Division A mitigations during COVID-19: “The to show ‘That’s what she said.’” 1st Place: Woodford Chronicle, Eureka, flowchart makes the recommendations 3rd Place: The News-Gazette, Cham- 1st Place: Oakland Independent, Janice Jennifer Kranz. State of Disillusion: “Very from the city’s confusing risk matrix into paign, Mike Goebel. Marching Orders. Hunt: “Good word play that draws the creative and informative design. This something more readable and effective.” reader’s attention.” graphic gives the reader loads of informa- 3rd Place: Chicago Tribune Media Division F 2nd Place: The Woodstock Independent, tion in an interesting way. Nicely done.” Group, Kori Rumore. Timelines by Kori Larry Lough. Cannabis business could 2nd Place: The Navigator, Albion, Amy Rumore: “Thoroughly researched, with 1st Place: Chicago Sun-Times, Eric grow here: “Clever headlines. Grabs the Winter. RESTORE Illinois Health Region excellent usage of archived materials. White. Eric White, ‘There’s no place but reader’s attention and makes them want graphic: “This graphic gives lots of infor- Plenty of information for all kinds of home,’ page 1 design: “An amazing photo to find out what’s happening.” mation. A larger map would have added history buffs.” that dares you not to pick it up and get 3rd Place: Mason County Democrat, a little more to this, but it’s certainly done Honorable Mention: Chicago Tribune more context.” Havana, Wendy Martin. “Getting to play” well.” Media Group, Jonathon Berlin, Chad 2nd Place: Chicago Sun-Times, Bryan has another meaning when it comes to 3rd Place: Hancock County Journal-Pilot, Yoder. Collection of graphics tracking Barker. Bryan Barker, ‘Pritzker’s plan to go Havana sports. Carthage, Mark Cox. Population Density COVID-19 metrics: “Good data-driven from this … to this’ page 1: “A very clever Honorable Mention: DuPage County Map: “Good effort to provide information graphic with evergreen use.” use of two pictures, of an eye-grabbing Chronicle, Wheaton, Jack McCarthy. in a unique way. The map needs a more subject at that, to express the difference a noticeable key, but this was done well.” CLASS 30 - SINGLE PAGE DESIGN few months can make.” Division B 3rd Place: Daily Herald Group, Arling- Division B Division A ton Heights, Neil Holdway. President 1st Place: The Hinsdalean, Ken Knutson. Hospitalized: “A wonderful spread that Hold the sweat, tears, just give blood this 1st Place: The Hinsdalean, Jim Slonoff. 1st Place: Hancock County Journal-Pi- expresses the urgency of the story as well month, other headlines: “Funny, clever Understanding state’s property tax cycle: lot, Carthage, Sara King. IPA Class 30 as it provides lots of information without and pretty descriptive. These headlines “Well organized and easily read. Glossary HCT 100th Cover Design: “Hardwood overwhelming the reader/viewer.” are good.” is a neat way to pack a bunch of under- background a great fit and love the old Honorable Mention: Chicago Sun-Times, 2nd Place: The Journal-News, Hillsboro, standing in limited space. Great balance photos.” Eric White. Eric White, ‘CPS’ subtraction Kyle Herschelman: “Some of these were to the text and photos. Nice.” 2nd Place: Suburban Chronicle, Geneva, problem’: “A well-done school graphic a little forced, but I appreciate the writer/ 2nd Place: The Hinsdalean, Jim Slonoff. Jack McCarthy. HORROR IN AURORA: that is as informative and clever as it is editor’s effort. Much easier to just write Tax amendment a complicated proposi- ONE YEAR LATER: “Good use of photos eye-catching.” sleepy headlines and move along to the tion: “I think this would have had a more and the divided parts of the story fit well.” next task.” readable look with an different color and 3rd Place: Woodford Chronicle, Eureka, CLASS 31 - NEWSPAPER DESIGN opacity. A grey scale background with Jennifer Kranz. MOVING OUT: “Good Division C black font is not as readable as having a use of charts and graphic.” Division A contracting color, and if the background Honorable Mention: The Harrisburg 1st Place: Journal & Topics Media Group, image is too heavy, it’s hard to read the Register, Michael “Spyder” Dann. ‘Dark- 1st Place: The Sidell Reporter, Staff. Tom Wessell. Starry Height. t e x t .” ness cannot drive out darkness’: “Good “Very readable in broadsheet. Clean and 2nd Place: Journal & Topics Media 3rd Place: The Journal-News, Hillsboro, use of photos, especially like the older well organized. Good font choices.” Group, Tom Wessell. No One’s Immune Kyle Herschelman. Sabol Countdown: photo. Nice display of 2nd Place: El Paso Journal, Staff. “Good From COVID Realities.

Page 18 • May 2021 • Illinois Press Association CLASS 24 - SPORTS PHOTO Division C CLASS 24 - SPORTS PHOTO Division E 1st Place: Journal & Topics Media Group, Dion Martorano. A Blast Of Color 1st Place: Journal Star, Peoria, Matt Dayho . Peoria Fight Club

CLASS 24 - SPORTS PHOTO Division D 1st Place: Daily Chronicle, DeKalb, Mark Busch. Touchdown dive

Illinois Press Association • May 2021 • Page 19 Division D Media Group, Staff. Fine Arts: “Great job featuring tons of way to settle into your easy chair and young people who might not get recog- relive the year that was like, well, you 1st Place: Journal-Courier, Jacksonville, Division D nition on most pages. Great layout and know. ...” David C.L. Bauer. advertising support. Super stories!” Honorable Mention: Chicago Sun-Times, 2nd Place: The Telegraph, Alton, Ron 1st Place: Daily Chronicle, DeKalb, Staff: Honorable Mention: The Woodstock In- Chicago Sun-Times staff. Chicago-Pedia, DeBrock. “Love the large-photo designs on the dependent, Staff. Home & Harvest: “This Volume 2, Chicago Sun-Times: “Unique, 3rd Place: The Southern Illinoisan, Car- front pages. Clean design and layout special section was exactly that – special. funny, entertaining. I know you did it be- bondale, Shawn Anglin. throughout, even the agate page. Good layout, good advertising support, fore, and how you came up with a second 2nd Place: The Southern Illinoisan, and great stories. Wonderful reading that volume is a mystery. But this was a real Division E Carbondale, Staff: “Outstanding story: the community will enjoy.” fun read.” ‘Carterville gets past Nashville’ ... great 1st Place: Quincy Herald-Whig, Thorn photos/layouts.” Division B CLASS 35 - BEST WEBSITE Compton. Sports headlines: “I enjoyed 3rd Place: Herald & Review, Decatur, the use of names in ways that make sense Matthew Flaten, Joey Wagner, Justin 1st Place: The Breese Journal, Staff. Bre- Division Daily with each story. The headlines didn’t feel Conn: “’Jaheim the dream’ – well done.” ese Journal Hunting Guide 2020: “Great forced.” Honorable Mention: Centralia Morning cover. Good content throughout.” 1st Place: Chicago Sun-Times, Chicago 2nd Place: The News-Gazette, Cham- Sentinel, Staff. 2nd Place: The Journal-News, Hillsboro, Sun-Times staff. chicago.suntimes.com: paign, Alex Kobryn. A shot in the arm: Staff. Fall Home Improvement: “Good “Visually appealing site with a great mix “Good use of play on words without being Division E story to anchor the section. Looks like of content, well-organized and easy to too complex or overbearing.” your sales team did too well, would have navigate.” 3rd Place: The News-Gazette, Cham- 1st Place: The News-Gazette, Cham- liked seeing a couple of those inside 2nd Place: Journal Star, Peoria, Staff. paign, Mike Goebel. Lent’s coming — paign, Matt Daniels: “The year-end recap photos bigger.” pjstar.com: “Easy-to-navigate site with a fast: “I especially enjoyed the seeds in the is an exhaustive undertaking ... almost 3rd Place: The Journal-News, Hillsboro, good selection of content.” group headline.” overwhelming, but in the end just right. Staff. Salute To Veterans: “Good cover 3rd Place: Chicago Tribune Media Honorable Mention: Journal Star, Peoria, Good enterprise content and what had and I am sure your readers loved all the Group, staff. chicagotribune.com: “I love Dean Muellerleile. Dean Muellerleile to be an empty notebook for the Illinois old photos.” the Favorite Sections menu and Subscrib- headlines: “The use of key words in ‘piece writer after the Nebraska game.” er Favorites menus.” and calm’ was a good connection.” 2nd Place: Journal Star, Peoria, Staff: Division D Honorable Mention: The News-Gazette, “Good feature on Bradley hoops and the Champaign, Staff. news-gazette.com: Division F boy with half a heart made for a good bal- 1st Place: Journal-Courier, Jacksonville, “Love the ease of finding the newsletters ance with stock game coverage. Splitting Staff. 20 Under 40: “Great idea for a and that there is a separate tab for COVID 1st Place: Chicago Sun-Times, Darel rankings into big-school/small-school special section, especially during COVID, news. I also really like that all multimedia Jevens: “Love the Dear Abby headlines. was also something unique in this group.” when making connections within the content is easily accessible.” Very clever!” 3rd Place: The Times, Ottawa, J.T. Pedelty, community is even more important. The 2nd Place: Daily Herald Group, Arlington Charlie Ellerbrock, Brian Hoxsey: “Tons layout and Q&A format makes it easy Division Non Daily Heights, Amanda Erd. of local content; I wish I had that many to read, good photos, love the quotes 3rd Place: Daily Herald Group, Arlington writers and photographers at my own as headlines. Good variety of people 1st Place: Chicago Daily Law Bulletin, Heights, Kevin Dollear. place! Design was good, although having featured.” Emma Zelewsky. chicagolawbulletin. Honorable Mention: Chicago Sun-Times, photos cut into print columns wasn’t nec- 2nd Place: Journal-Courier, Jacksonville, com: “This polished, professional website Paul Saltzman. essary; photos were easily editable.” Staff. Baseball preview: “Great-looking is an attractive showcase for reporting Honorable Mention: Northwest Herald, section; very eye-catching. Loved the cov- and commentary on the law. Art ele- CLASS 33 - SPORTS SECTION Crystal Lake, Staff: “Decent enough mix er. Everything fans need to know before ments accompanied all stories in the of local and Chicago area sports, im- the season, but also a great memento the center slot on the day reviewed. The Division A portant to their audience. Enjoyed the players can be proud to have and save.” CLDB People section with head shots wrestling photo page also. Design is clean and boldfaced names is a good feature. 1st Place: Bureau County Republican, and easy to read.” Division E Landing pages present the content well; Princeton, Kevin Hieronymus: “Class of good use of labels and headings as or- the field. Excellent ideas, clean look mak- Division F 1st Place: The News-Gazette, Cham- ganizational tools. Including journalists’ ing it easy for readers to move their eyes paign, Staff. Tribute to Lou Henson: photos with their titles, phone numbers and catch on to a story. I’d like this being 1st Place: Chicago Sun-Times, Chicago “Great tribute section and fan keepsake. and email addresses on the staff contact my town’s sports section.” Sun-Times sports staff: “These sections Strong layout and good photography.” page is a nice touch that more news sites 2nd Place: Oakland Independent, Janice rival any sports magazine on the shelves. 2nd Place: The News-Gazette, Cham- should consider.” Hunt: “Taking advantage throughout the Great design, good mix of coverage, a paign, Staff. At Home: “Truly beautiful 2nd Place: Republic-Times, Waterloo, newspaper of a team’s historic advance reporting and writing that’s worthy of a photography and sleek, inviting design Scott Woodsmall, Corey Saathoff, Chris is a sign of success throughout the chain top market like Chicago. In a digital-first throughout, both editorial and advertis- Otten: “RepublicTimes.net is bold, of command. Good choice. And the world, the Sun-Times still puts its best ing. A complete package.” splashy and engaging, with large photos coverage matches the idea. Advertising, foot forward in print. Congrats!” 3rd Place: Quincy Herald-Whig, Deborah drawing readers into each story. Good too. Definitely a clip-and-save among the 2nd Place: Daily Herald Group, Arlington Gertz Husar, Cody Bozarth. Farm & Field: taxonomy; this judge particularly liked families.” Heights, Sports Staff: “This is a really good “A good-looking section.” the recent story previews that populate 3rd Place: The Woodstock Independent, sports section, smartly designed and Honorable Mention: The News-Gazette, when you mouse over a category in the Sandy Kucharski: “Excellent work. The well-written. Not easy to pull off in these Champaign, Jeff D’Alessio, Mike Goebel. ‘News’ drop-down menu. Intermingling community can be proud of its sports days of de-emphasizing print. And with Best of the Decade. birth, engagement and anniversary an- section, and those putting it together. few ads, that’s a lot of space to fill by a nouncements with obituaries under the Many hometowns throughout the coun- talented and prolific staff.” Division F heading of “Milestones” feels inappro- try would love to have this effort.” priate. Obits are a distinct type of content Honorable Mention: Cass County CLASS 34 - SPECIAL SECTIONS 1st Place: Chicago Sun-Times, Chicago that should comprise a separate category. Star-Gazette, Beardstown, Don Chipman: Sun-Times sports staff. ‘Visionaries,’ Chi- The newspaper’s ambitious digital and “This is a sports section that readers can Division A cago Sun-Times’ 2020 baseball preview social media efforts are evident, and the enjoy, a rundown on what happened and special section: “Rich photos and design, site is strong overall.” who made it happen. Definitely a names- 1st Place: The Woodstock Independent, along with smart writing and authorita- 3rd Place: Cook County Chronicle, Chi- and-faces kind of section, and those are Staff. Home, Farm & Garden: “This meaty tive reporting make this section a winner. cago, Staff: “Good example of an effective the best kind.” special section had beautiful design, This is high-caliber stuff and a true read- ‘megasite’ incorporating news from mul- and good, strong information. Very good er-extra that’s worth price.” tiple publications. Navigation between Division B advertising support on this one. It not 2nd Place: Daily Herald Group, Arlington Chronicle properties is seamless and the only provided much needed info, but also Heights, Jim Baumann, Staff. Publishing branding is consistent while offering a 1st Place: The Commercial-News, Dan- insight into personal lives of community During A Pandemic: “OK, I wasn’t so sure sense of place on local landing pages. ville, Chad Dare. members in the farming world. Well writ- about this when I first downloaded it, Featuring only two categories — the 2nd Place: The Journal-News, Hillsboro, ten stories!” but this was a really cool, insider’s look at main news stack and the state news rail Staff. 2nd Place: Hancock County Journal-Pi- covering news during the pandemic that — makes the home page feel sparse. Site- 3rd Place: The Hinsdalean, Staff. lot, Carthage, Staff. HCT 100 Years: “This I’m sure readers appreciated. A different wide, taxonomy is limited to news from Honorable Mention: The Greenville one is a keeper! Readers will read this one slant on what everyone else was doing. each of the 13 counties and landing pages Advocate, Roger Sanders. from cover to cover and save it to share Good idea.” under the “Government” and “Coronavi- with others. Great job at looking at 100 3rd Place: Chicago Sun-Times, Chicago rus” tabs. This website could benefit from Division C years of successes.” Sun-Times staff. ‘2020 Year in review,’ more differentiation of content, such as 3rd Place: The Sidell Reporter, Suzanne Chicago Sun-Times: “Some really cool categories for crime and courts, educa- 1st Place: Journal & Topics Woodard, Vicki Delhaye, Rinda Maddox. writing and pictures in this one. A fun tion, agriculture, lifestyles, etc.”

Page 20 • May 2021 • Illinois Press Association CLASS 24 - SPORTS PHOTO Division F 1st Place: Daily Herald Group, Arlington Heights, Mark Welsh. Rush for Glory

CLASS 25 - CLASS 25 - SPORTS PHOTO - PORTRAIT/PERSONALITY Division NonDaily SPORTS PHOTO - PORTRAIT/PERSONALITY Division Daily 1st Place: e Journal-News, Hillsboro, Kyle Herschelman. Carlile, omas Are 1st Place: Sauk Valley Media, Alex T. Paschal. Making a splash Bound

Illinois Press Association • May 2021 • Page 21 Honorable Mention: The Journal-News, hasn’t been equally applied to all.” 1st Place: The Hinsdalean, Ken Knutson Novak, Lauren FitzPatrick. Hillsboro, Staff: “Large headlines and 3rd Place: Chicago Tribune Media and Pamela Lannom: “A well-selected se- 2nd Place: Daily Herald Group, Arling- smooth navigation make thejour- Group, Staff. COVID-19’s far-reaching ries of articles that tracks the high school ton Heights, Jake Griffin. Suburban Tax nal-news.net a reliable resource for impact: “Reporters working on this series sports world’s response to the pandemic Watchdog. online readers. Website is clean and took often original approaches to suss out over the entire scope of 2020.” 3rd Place: Centralia Morning Sentinel, uncluttered, making the latest news and unexpected impacts of the pandemic on 2nd Place: The Greenville Advocate, Da- Connor Wood. Centralia sales tax refer- sports stories easy to find. Local ads are Chicago life, from counting visitors to one vid Holden. Panther basketball bolsters endum. displayed prominently. A greater empha- of the city’s storied landmarks to telling their budget: “The story of an unexpect- sis on visuals — preferably local art, but the stories of some of the PPP’s least- ed upside for a basketball program ties Division Non Daily even stock photos if necessary — would helped companies. The picture these sto- health reporting and sports together.” help draw readers in and make the home ries paint helps readers understand the 3rd Place: Oakland Independent, Janice 1st Place: The Woodstock Independent, page more attractive.” multifaceted and sometimes unexpected Hunt. Taking one for the team: “A fun Larry Lough. How do you want to pay for costs of COVID-19, from its long-term story of an unexpected career move and streets? CLASS 36 - impacts on health to the changing nature its benefit for a school community.” 2nd Place: Kendall County Record, PUBLIC NOTICE JOURNALISM AWARD of getting around the city.” Honorable Mention: Cass County Yorkville, Katie Finlon. Kendall County Honorable Mention: Chicago Sun-Times, Star-Gazette, Beardstown, Don Chipman. Board OKs property tax late fee, interest Division All Maureen O’Donnell. ‘What COVID has The COVID impact on local sports: “Good relief for residents. cost us’: “These heartfelt portraits of com- fiscal reporting on a level of sports that 1St Place: Daily Chronicle, DeKalb, Katie munity members and icons lost amid the is often overlooked, as well as a timely CLASS 42 - Finlon. Hunter Properties contests Spe- pandemic serve as an important demon- commentary.” cial Service Area proposal. Knight Chair Award for BEST stration of the impact of COVID-19. These INVESTIGATIVE/ENTERPRISE REPORTING obituaries go above and beyond to tell the CLASS 40 - Robert M. Cole Award CLASS 37 - EDITORIAL ROOKIE OF THE YEAR stories of these people’s lives and their for BEST SCHOOL BOARD COVERAGE Division A impacts on their friends, family and fans.” Division Daily Division Daily 1st Place: The Braidwood Journal, Division Non Daily The News-Gazette, Cham- Jennifer Glasscock. Braidwood Police 1st Place: 1st Place: The News-Gazette, Cham- paign, Jay Simpson: “This competition Department helicopter unit: “A classic 1st Place: The Hinsdalean, Pamela paign, Anthony Zilis. Champaign, Urbana was close until I got to Jay’s column. Wow. watchdog story on wasteful spending by Lannom & Ken Knutson. Flattening the schools: “Good coverage and well written It’s compelling, so well-written, insight- a government agency that found through curve: “Effective use of a weekly feature to articles on a variety of complicated, local ful, honest. It sucks you in. A window into Freedom of Information requests what spotlight local residents and businesses education issues. A great way of explain- Black culture at a time when we need even a city alderman did not know.” making the most of a dire situation.” ing detailed issues in compelling, easy to that window open. Throw out all of the 2nd Place: Ledger-Sentinel, Oswego, 2nd Place: Pioneer Press Media Group, read format while included the board and ‘didn’t go to journalism school’ or ‘The Katie Finlon. Coverage of the death of Chicago, Genevieve Bookwalter. For district perspective.” News-Gazette took a big chance’ hype. Kerrigan Rutherford, 6-year-old girl from those already dealing with health issues, Chicago Sun-Times, Lauren Jay is a natural and an up-and-comer, and 2nd Place: Boulder Hill: “Determined follow-up to COVID-19 adds to the worry: “Compel- readers are the winners.” FitzPatrick. ‘30 public schools in Chicago the death of child that revealed horrible ling reads from early in the pandemic.” 2nd Place: The Pantagraph, Blooming- named for slaveholders,’ Lauren FitzPat- living conditions and a lack of action by 3rd Place: Suburban Chronicle, Geneva, ton, Sierra Henry: “A fresh new journalist rick, Chicago Sun-Times: “An excellent a state agency that had been repeatedly Staff. COVID-19 news coverage. with a good mix of stories, from business story and outstanding write-up. The de- alerted to the dangerous situation.” to features, Sierra gives us hope that the Honorable Mention: The Navigator, tail and volume of research was extremely Albion, T.J. Hug, Len Wells, Amy Winter. impressive. The depth of reporting and tradition of good newspaper stories will Division B continue with the next generation.” Pickup Pulpit, Frontlines, COVID Cop, the community dialogue were great.” Bisch Survives, New Hope in Education. 3rd Place: Breeze Courier, Taylorville, 3rd Place: Centralia Morning Sentinel, 1st Place: Herald & Review, Decatur, Owen Lasswell. Taylorville School Board Brittany Misencik: “Brittany had a nice Tony Reid. Macon County Jail health care: CLASS 39 - COVID-19 SPORTS COVERAGE coverage: “Good, continuous coverage writing style and a good mix of coverage. “An investigation that went far beyond of the issue. All stories were clear and For a rookie, she tackled coronavirus cov- the usual court reporting and showed Division Daily concise, and easy to read and included erage for her paper in a smart, impressive the value of Freedom of Information Act various sides of the issue.” w a y .” requests.” 1st Place: Journal Star, Peoria, Dave Em- Honorable Mention: The Beacon-News, 2nd Place: The Pantagraph, Blooming- Aurora, Megan Jones: “To be fair, the inian, Nick Vlahos, Stan Morris: “Strong Division Non Daily hard-news entry on COVID reporting. ton, Staff. Out of the shadows: Spotlight only thing that kept Megan from winning on sex crimes: “A strong enterprise story Thought this entry’s use of quotes from 1st Place: Coal City Courant, Ann Gill. is that she’s been in the business three that kept one of perils of the pandemic – students, coaches and administrators Coverage of Unit 1 Coal City School Dis- years, not exactly a rookie. But her depth child abuse – in the public eye.” of coverage of social issues and the like were some of the best presented, in that it trict: “Excellent contribution to commu- has her on a path to do really great things felt like there was true emotion (the Peo- nity understanding of governance work Division C in this business.” ria School Board content was particularly and issues facing district (especially Dres- impactful and showed the reporter was den closing), with knowledge, clarity, 1st Place: Chicago Sun-Times, Frank CLASS 38 - COVID-19 NEWS COVERAGE ready for the key moments).” and depth. Well explained, written, and 2nd Place: The Southern Illinoisan, presented. An asset to community knowl- Main, Andy Grimm. ‘Long delays for Division Daily Carbondale, Staff: “Good points of view edge and dialogue of issue and impact.” justice,’ Frank Main, Andy Grimm: “An on the Goreville reaction to cancellation 2nd Place: Illinois Times, Springfield, excellent series of stories on trial delays 1st Place: Chicago Tribune Media Group, story and the Salukis bubble story, but Rachel Otwell. Springfield Public Schools that go on for years, depriving defendants Stacy St. Clair. Inside Illinois’ COVID the radio announcers story hit home best and pandemic learning: “Excellent depth, of their rights and freedom and place wards and testing centers: “Superbly for me. Unique perspective that no one enterprise, and contribution to pubic financial and emotional hardships on written and reported, these firsthand else mentioned in any other entry. Good understanding. Well-written, engaging their families.” accounts of the massive toll COVID-19 thinking.” articles on key education issues.” 2nd Place: Chicago Sun-Times, Tim has taken on the health care community 3rd Place: Breeze Courier, Taylorville, 3rd Place: The Woodstock Independent, Novak, Lauren FitzPatrick. Cook Coun- and Chicago patients. But these pieces Robert Fagg. Field of Digital Dreams: Larry Lough. COVID-19 and bond debt: ty Land Bank Authority investigation, do more than just paint a picture of a “This is a neat idea and was, by far, the “Great coverage, depth, and analysis, Tim Novak, Lauren FitzPatrick: “Superb pandemic. They provide context and most outside-the-box entry in this cate- especially the work on construction bond reporting on the Cook County Land history to help the audience understand gory. I would have liked to have seen the issue. Well-presented, clear, and infor- Bank Authority. Textbook investigative the policy decisions that led us here and text have more breakouts – lineup cards mative.” reporting on corrupt quasi government the work it will take to get us out.” would have been perfect for this. But the Honorable Mention: The Journal-News, agencies that seldom receive the scrutiny 2nd Place: Belleville News-Democrat, ingenuity here is impressive. Wonder how Hillsboro, Kyle Herschelman. Panhandle they deserve.” DeAsia Paige, Kelsey Landis. COVID-19 long it would have taken to do a whole School Board. 3rd Place: Belleville News-Democrat, exposes more inequities between Black season with local teams?” Alexis Cortes. Granite City crime free and white people in St. Clair County: Honorable Mention: The Telegraph, CLASS 41 - housing investigation: “Solid reporting “This excellent reporting uses data and Alton, Pete Hayes and Greg Shashack: Maurice Scott Award on a housing issue more important than the stories of those impacted to highlight “Good stories to be writing in this com- for BEST COVERAGE OF TAXATION e v e r.” important disparities across multiple as- munity, and easy to read. But the depth Honorable Mention: Belleville pects of the COVID-19 pandemic. It also doesn’t quite to get to the level of others Division Daily News-Democrat, Kavahn Mansouri. Raw effectively provides the history to put the in this group.” sewage invades the homes of Illinois’ reality of these disparities for communi- 1st Place: Chicago Sun-Times, Tim poorest residents. Why hasn’t it been ties of color in context and helps readers Division Non Daily Novak, Lauren FitzPatrick. Cook County fixed?: “Excellent community watchdog understand why the toll of this disease Land Bank Authority investigation, Tim reporting.”

Page 22 • May 2021 • Illinois Press Association Illinois Press Association’s 2020 Sweepstakes Winners

David B. Kramer Memorial Trophy Will Loomis Memorial Trophy Mabel S. Shaw Memorial Trophy Oakland Independent Pioneer Press Media Group, Chicago e News-Gazette, Champaign

2nd Place: e Woodstock Independent 2nd Place: e MidWeek, DeKalb 2nd Place: Journal Star, Peoria 3rd Place: Cass County Star-Gazette, Beardstown 3rd Place: Journal & Topics Media Group 3rd Place: Northwest Herald, Crystal Lake 4th Place: e Sidell Reporter 4th Place: Illinois Times, Spring eld 4th Place: Rockford Register Star e David R. Kramer Memorial Trophy was established e Will Loomis Memorial Trophy is awarded to a Divi- e Mabel S. Shaw Memorial Trophy is awarded to a in 2014 by the Kramer family in memory of the late pub- sion C weekly newspaper. e Cook County Suburban Division E daily newspaper. It was established in 1994 lisher of the Gibson City Courier and the other Kramer Publishers Association established it in 1949 in memory and contributed by the Shaw family in memory of the weekly newspapers. It is awarded to a Division A weekly of William W. Loomis, former publisher of the LaGrange late publisher of e Telegraph in Dixon. newspaper. Citizen. Stuart R. Paddock Memorial Trophy Harold and Eva White Memorial Trophy Patrick Coburn Award of Excellence Chicago Sun-Times e Hinsdalean Daily Chronicle, DeKalb 2nd Place: Daily Herald Group 2nd Place: e Journal-News, Hillsboro 2nd Place: e Register-Mail, Galesburg 3rd Place: Belleville News-Democrat 3rd Place: e Greenville Advocate 3rd Place: e Telegraph, Alton 4th Place: Chicago Tribune Media Group 4th Place: Kane County Chronicle, St. Charles 4th Place: Herald & Review, Decatur e Stuart R. Paddock Memorial Trophy is awarded to e Harold and Eva White Trophy is awarded to a Divi- e Patrick Coburn Award of Excellence is awarded to a a Division F daily newspaper. It was established in 1978 sion B weekly newspaper. It was established in 1990 and Division D daily newspaper. It was established in 2011 and contributed by the Paddock family in memory of the contributed by SUN Publications, a division of Copley and contributed by Patrick Coburn, former publisher of late publisher of the Chicago newspaper company. Newspapers, in honor of Harold and Eva White, former the State Journal-Register and vice president of Copley publisher of SUN Publications in Naperville. Press, Inc.

Illinois Press Association • May 2021 • Page 23