Photo by Russ Tornabene

The Chicago Headline Club chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists has named winners of the Peter Lisagor Awards for Exemplary Journalism. You can see a list of the winners below.

The awards are named for Peter Lisagor, late Washington bureau chief of the Chicago Daily News. Bob Schieffer, host of "Face the Nation" on CBS who covered the White House alongside Lisagor, joined Chicago journalists in presenting plaques to the honorees April 30 in the Westin Chicago River North hotel. A slide show of pictures from the dinner is online.

"This is a night that celebrates the very best of journalism from Chicago and across the region," said Ben Bradley, WLS-TV reporter and Chicago Headline Club president. "It's always an invigorating experience to see so many talented professionals gather in one place and take some time to reflect on outstanding achievements from the last year."

Reporters and editors in the Miami and Seattle chapters of SPJ reviewed more than 700 nominees to select the 54 works honored this year.

Photo by Betty Lou Wacko

The Chicago Tribune, including its Sunday magazine and on-line edition, won 11 Lisagor awards. The Daily Herald and WBEZ received five honors. Three Lisagors were presented to Chicago magazine, the Daily Southtown, The Times (Munster, Ind.) and WFLD. The Associated Press, Chicago Reader, the Chicago Reporter, Chicago Sun-Times, CLTV, Crain's Chicago Business and WLS-TV each were named in two contests. Also recognized were Chicago Journal, National Public Radio, Pioneer Press, The Post-Tribune, WBBM-AM, WLS-AM and WTTW.

The Society of Professional Journalists, founded in 1909 as Sigma Delta Chi, bears a time-honored role in journalism advocacy and recognition of outstanding achievement. SPJ is a volunteer organization dedicated to encouraging the free practice of journalism and stimulating high standards of ethical behavior.

SPJ's programs promote the free flow of information vital to a well-informed citizenry; inspire and educate the next generation of journalists; and protect First Amendment guarantees of freedom of speech and press.

2003 Lisagor Awards Winners and Finalists
Judges' comments follow selected winning entries and finalists.

1. In-depth reporting
A story, documentary or series on a single subject, by a reporter or reporting team. Judges look for enterprise, accuracy, scope, style and impact.
Daily newspaper, circulation more than 300,000
Winner: Patrick T. Reardon and Blair Kamin, Chicago Tribune, "A Squandered Heritage"
" A deeply researched and richly detailed account of the destruction and neglect of Chicago's irreplaceable architectural heritage. Reardon and Kamin have reported and written this series so well that the judges, even one with no interest in Chicago, felt the personality of each endangered or demolished building, and each neighborhood, and came to care about them. Aided by the marvelous photos, readers could envision themselves going around the neighborhoods watching the destruction. The reporters convincingly laid out the political and economic dynamics of the city's ""demolition machine"" and described the disturbing impact on neighborhoods and people. It seems the series prompted the Daley administration to reconsider some of its policies. We just wished the series had been written years ago, before all these gems were destroyed."

Finalist: Tim Novak, Chicago Sun-Times, "Pension Jackpot"
" Tim Novak manages to take a potentially dry subject, the way public employees boost their pensions above their actual salaries, and make it captivating. He thoroughly and clearly explains the mechanisms of how people and government agencies accomplish this, and shows how political connections grease the process. But the personal stories are what make it so readable. They are outrageous, but Novak goes out of his way to be fair to the individuals and gives them plenty of opportunity to justify their high retirement pay, with sometimes hilarious quotes. Novak rightly notes the disjunction between government and private pensions and places this in the context of the overextended public pension system. He could have done more, however, to show how much of the public pension system's problems are related to the type of gaming he reports."

Finalist: Maurice Possley and Steve Mills with Don Terry, Chicago Tribune, "The Legacy of Wrongful Convictions"
" Maurice Possley and Steve Mills had the good sense to follow their excellent reporting on wrongful convictions with these articles on how police and prosecutors respond when DNA evidence acquits defendants -- do they enter the DNA evidence into the national database and look for the real culprit? In too many cases, the answer is no. The reporters painstakingly explain the DNA evidence process. And they excel at showing how prosecutors refuse to let go of discredited prosecutions and theories. Too many reporters flinch at tough reporting on prosecutors, who are often sacred cows. These stories put the onus on prosecutors around the country to move on after an exoneration, and do their job of catching the real bad guys. The information graphics and photographs also were superb. Note: Don Terry's profile of Aaron Patterson was a fine and nuanced one, but the judges felt that it did not work as a package with the Possley/Mills stories and hence did not view it as part of the winning entry. It should have been a completely separate entry."

Daily newspaper, circulation less than 300,000
Winner: Steve Patterson, Post-Tribune, "Voter Fraud"
" Investigative reporting by Steve Patterson of the Post-Tribune laid out a pattern of voter fraud that led a judge to overturn an election as fraudulent for the first time in Indiana history. The story began with a protest by a losing judicial candidate, suspicious over a batch of absentee ballots from voters with Eastern European surnames. The newspaper took that complaint and ran, reading voter registry books, knocking on doors and eventually uncovering widespread evidence of fraud in that election and a separate mayoral primary. The stories came in rapid-fire succession over a few months, and each one advanced the plot. Expanding on the research done by the losing candidates, the newspaper found a pattern of political operatives targeting poor, poorly educated and non-English-speaking voters. In one case, a local committeeman manipulated Serbian speakers to alter the outcome of a judicial race. In another, the outcome of the mayor's race changed following a machine-style effort to gather hundreds of absentee ballots. Patterson found voters who did not live where they voted and officeholders voting in the wrong jurisdiction. When the county prosecutor promised a crackdown, the newspaper discovered targets of that crackdown were regular contributors to the prosecutor's campaigns; some of the fraudulent votes came from voters who had lived in apartment buildings the prosecutor owned. The series may prompt a new law requiring voters to better identify themselves."

Finalist: Sara Burnett and Natasha Korecki with Chris Hankins, Daily Herald, "Exodus from Mexico"
" This ambitious series, the best-written entry in this category, tells the story of Suburban Chicago's Mexican immigrants by tracing it back to the source: their home towns in Mexico. One article follows immigrants on the dangerous journey north. Another visits an town whose population has relocated to a single Chicago suburb. ""Exodus"" goes a long way toward explaining why hundreds of thousands of Mexicans risk their lives to relocate to places like Elk Grove Village and Wheeling, a journey that must seem unfathomable to most Daily Herald readers. The project vividly illustrates the symbiotic relationship between the Chicago suburb and the Mexican point of origin. Particularly poignant is the Mexican church splendidly redone with money repatriated by Chicago-area immigrants. Hauntingly, the refurbished church lacks enough people to fill the pews, because so many townsfolk have headed north. The graphics team merits special mention for telling the story of the numbers."

Finalist: Rukmini Callimachi and M. Scott Mahaskey with Renee Trappe, Daily Herald, "Passage from India"
" Another entry in the Daily Herald's series of 'Stories of Suburban Immigrants,' this effort explains what it means to come from a remote Indian village to a dorm room in suburban Lisle. Like 'Exodus from Mexico,' this series goes back to the source to explain a poorly understood immigrant group: What they left, why they left it, and how they struggle to fit in -- in a Chicago suburb. ""Exodus"" exceeds 'Passage' only by digging deeper into the actual journey."

Non-daily newspaper
Winner: Grant Pick, Chicago Reader, "Still Doing Time"
" Excellent story that reversed the conventional wisdom, was relevant to news events and was compelling. The narrative could have been tightened and sharpened to keep the reader more involved, but a damn good tale overall."

Finalist: John Conroy, Chicago Reader, "Deaf to the Screams"
Some really astounding material here. A cut above the competition.

Finalist: Karen Berkowitz and Staff (Sara Loeb, Ken Goze, Kathy Routliffe, Michael Drakulich, Irv Leavitt, Chris LaFortune), Pioneer Press, "Tarnished Treasure"
" Good and important material well fleshed out and analyzed. Could have been tighter and taken stronger control of the material, but overall a wonderful read."

General-circulation magazine
Winner: Steve Rhodes, Chicago, "Anatomy of a Crash"
" A fascinating and thorough account of a midair crash that took the life of a Chicago radio personality, but more importantly, as written, raises questions about the safety of small airports nationwide. The piece is well written, authoritative yet balanced, an accomplishment in light of the conflicting lawsuits the crash has prompted."

Finalist: Carol Felsenthal, Chicago, "Governor Sunshine"
" Well-sourced, well written. A terrific read filled with insider anecdotes, this is no puff piece. It tackles the criticism and rumors Illinois’ colorful governor has aroused, yet also captures some of the warmth and weirdness of his personality."

Finalist: Joseph Weber, Business Week, "The House of Pritzker"
Weber weaves an irresistible tale from the gossip and high finance surrounding the breakup of the Pritzker family fortune. He makes this complicated story easy to follow and he puts it in the context of other recent breakdowns of famous families."

Trade, newsletter or special interest publication
Winner: Sarah Karp and Leah Samuel, Chicago Reporter, "The Plight of Ex-Offenders"
A hard look (with named subjects) at a difficult problem that deserves public attention: the need to put ex-offenders into jobs. The two pieces in this series are not mawkish or whiney but authoritatively point out the cost of ignoring the need for jobs for this segment of our population.

Finalist: Yvette Shields, Bond Buyer, "Illinois Pension Deal"
" In a series of stories over nine months, Shields keeps chipping away at a huge state pension deal in which lobbyists and consultants played interesting roles. The stories rightly raised questions about the propriety of the deal and the involvement of friends of the governor. As Shields described what her stories did, she searched for “a roadmap” to the ties that linked consultants, banks and state officials in the making of the deal."

Finalist: Lee Ann Runy and Jennifer Towne, Hospitals & Health Networks, "Consumer Confusion"
" An interesting pull-it-all together look at just what exactly the public would like from the health-care industry, illustrated with graphics, pullouts and interactive features. The report, based on an examination of more than 100 health-care public opinion polls from the past three years, found that it will be difficult for the hospitals the publication services to please consumers. People don’t really want health care at all, but if they do find they have to have it, well then, they want the best of care for the least of costs."

News bureau, wire service or on-line media
Winner: John O'Connor, Associated Press, "State Jobs"
" In clear, crisp writing, O'Connor gives his readers a behind-the-scenes peek at the machinations of an outgoing governor and his successor. He adroitly lays bare the fancy footwork, or paperwork, that turns state jobs into a shuffling game of political patronage. It's an easy bet these stories were the topic of the day at coffee shops, around water coolers and on local talk radio. O'Connor explains it all in simple, compelling style and language."

Finalist: Dave Carpenter and Economy Team (Jan Dennis, Jim Paul, Susan Skiles Luke, Christopher Wills, Eric Fidler), Associated Press, "Morphing Out of Manufacturing"
"Carpenter brings home in vivid detail the reasons behind and the impact of the decline in the state's manufacturing sector. What could be a dry and ponderous abstraction instead resonates with relevance and life. He explores all facets of the loss and shows, in small cities and large, how it touches all segments of the community. In the voices of the workers, the business and community leaders, we hear both desperation and optimism."

Finalist: Maura Kelly, Associated Press, "Prescription Drugs"
" Kelly details the ongoing battle over affordable prescription drugs and Illinois' attempts to import discounted drugs from Canada. Thorough, well-sourced and balanced, her stories explain the controversy and the conflict between the feds and the state in a concise, easy read."

Radio
Winner: Julia McEvoy and Amy Dorn, WBEZ, "Speaking of Sex"
" A unique and very well done series. The personal accounts, especially with prostitutes and seniors discussing sex, were very compelling. The conversations were very frank and dealt with subject matter often taboo. It was done in good taste while still leaving in all of the conversations. The reporters obviously took a good deal of time and effort to produce and it shows."

Finalist: Cheryl Corley, National Public Radio, "Washington Park Budget Based on Strip Clubs"
" I've never given much thought to seeing strip clubs in small towns along an interstate, so this made me think about how they end up being in these communities. It was an original topic and well produced, especially having sound from inside one of the strip clubs. It would have been nice to have had some of the patrons or dancers in the club speak, but just getting the manager to talk on tape probably took some effort. Comments from the town's officials were also very compelling."

Finalist: Jay Field, WBEZ, "Lorenzana's Search"
" Another interesting issue often not addressed for poor immigrants in this country. The open, frank conversations were very compelling, making for a very strong and informative piece."

Television
Winner: Larry Yellen and Diane Carbonara with Chuck Quinzio and Tim Morris, WFLD, "Eric Morse's Killer"
" A powerful and extremely well-crafted look at a man convicted as a child for a horrific crime. The storytelling was almost transparent, allowing the viewer to be sept up in the narrative."

Finalist: Jeff Flock and Rob Hess with Grace Ramirez, Tracey Scruggs, Styke Dimas, Bruce Fine, Rick Hall, Jeff Kinney and Bill Mahnkey, CNN, "Governor Empties Death Row"
" A textbook example of getting ahead on a story and covering it thoroughly as it unfolded."

Finalist: Larry Yellen and Diane Carbonara with Chuck Quinzio and Tim Smith, WFLD, "Video Confessions"
" An enterprising and insightful look at the role videotaping is now playing in police interrogations."

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2. Deadline reporting
Coverage of a spot news event, as it happens or soon after, by a reporter or reporting team. Judges look for enterprise, accuracy, scope, style and impact.
Daily newspaper
Winner: Staff, Chicago Tribune (Rudolph Bush, Brett McNeil, Virginia Groark, Todd Lighty, Don Terry, Steve Franklin, John McCormick, Jeff Coen, Ana Beatriz Cholo, Sean Hamill, Deborah Horan, Terry Armour, David Heinzmann, Gary Washburn, Ray Gibson, Grace Aduroja, Robert L. Kaiser, Michael Higgins, Mickey Ciokajlo, Laurie Cohen, Rick Pearson, Julie Deardorff, James Janega), "E2 Nightclub Disaster"
" Classic news writing, with facts and context expertly woven together - you get the full story in the first three paragraphs of the lead story, but the full coverage teases out the individual human tragedies as well as the smaller, gritty details and the larger legal issues. It's a great example of how to cover a story on your home turf."

Finalist: Staff, Chicago Tribune (Tim Jones, Jeremy Manier, Amy Nevala, Vincent Schodolski, Bob Kemper, Michael Tackett, Julie Deardorff, Ron Kotulak, Peter Gorner, John Kass, Jon Hilkevitch, Christine Spolar, Julia Keller, Jeff Zeleny, Judith Graham, Vickie Walton-James, Susan Keaton, Lisa B. Anderson, Shia Kapos, Dion Haynes, Karen Brandon, Frank James, Michael Higgins, Steve Johnson, Brett McNeil, Lynette Kalsnes, Michael Kilian), "The Columbia Is Lost"
" The staff went big on a national story, and succeeded. It's a well-directed effort from the standpoint of reporting, editing and production. Left-column page-one story hit the key issue that emerged from the investigation months later. Virtually every angle is here - the event, the search, the potential causes, the implications. And all this was done during a 16-hour stretch on a Saturday."

Finalist: Staff, Chicago Sun-Times (Fran Spielman, Frank Main, Mark Skertic, Curtis Lawrence, Mark Brown, Carlos Sadovi, Annie Sweeney, Scott Fornek, Rosaline Rossi, Lucio Guerrero, Mary Mitchell), "E2 Stampede"
" Coverage provides more impact if not quite as much depth as the Tribune report. The main story leads you forward into the investigation -- it may not be quite a 'second-day' lead, but rather a 'day-and-a-half' lead suited to people who already have been watching TV news for 24 hours."

Non-daily publication, news bureau, wire service or on-line media
Winner: Don Babwin, Maura Kelly and Staff (Christopher Wills, Jerry Crimmins, Nicole Ziegler Dizon, Eric Fidler, Nathaniel Hernandez, Jan Dennis), Associated Press, "Death Penalty"
" This coverage of Gov. George Ryan’s decision to empty Illinois’ death row was comprehensive and thorough. It helped put the events in good context and is a testament to the ability of these reporters’ to provide great material in a 24-hour news cycle."

Finalist: Chicagotribune.com Staff, Chicago Tribune Interactive, "Loop High-rise Fire"
" The staff of chicagotribune.com were able to take advantage of the immediacy of online media to put together a great package on a nearly instant deadline."

Finalist: Julie Johnsson and Sandra Jones, Crain's Chicago Business, "New Era Beckons Motorola"
" Well-written story."

Radio
Winner: Steve Miller and Staff (Bob Roberts, Keith Johnson, Julie Mann, Craig Dellimore, Duane Gray, Jim Benes), WBBM, "Wallace Shooting"
" Excellent combination of the evolving facts about the shooting, along with background on the shooter. The coverage always moved forward and led to a clearer picture of a chaotic event. "

Finalist: Jennifer Keiper and Steve Scott, WLS, "Chicago Antiwar Protests"
" Good presence and composure from on-the-street reporters in the midst of the story. As reporters describe jogging to keep up with the action or being thrown aside by police officers, we are there with them."

Finalist: Cisco Cotto and Steve Scott, with Don Wade and Roma, WLS, "E2 Nightclub Disaster"
" Calm, informative, clear and concise. The reporters live voicers employ visual language creating word pictures for the audience."

Television
Winner: Leah Hope and Rich Hillengas with Bill Roesler, WLS, "Loop High-rise Fire"
" Reporter turned on a dime, quickly gathered info and truth-squadded under trying circumstances."

Finalist: Wilson Toy and Hosea Sanders, WLS, "Nightclub Disaster"

Finalist: Ann Kavanagh and Kathryn Mitchell, WFLD, "Nightclub Stampede"

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3. Public service
A story, documentary or series on a single issue of civic interest, by a reporter or reporting team. Nominations must state the circumstances that prompted the undertaking and the results achieved. Judges look for enterprise, accuracy, scope, style and impact.
Print publication, news bureau, wire service or on-line media
Finalist: Staff, Daily Herald, "Strengthening the Suburban Mosaic"
" The Daily Herald could have just looked at census figures and written a news story or two about its area’s changing demographics. The newspaper went far beyond the basics and committed extensive resources to present rich personal stories about some of the area’s newest citizens. This effort rendered a valuable public service by providing readers with a rare insight into the lives of their unknown neighbors."

Finalist: Staff, The Times, "One Region/One Vision"
" The Times’ yearlong series outlined many of the problems faced by citizens of its region, but it didn’t stop there. It presented possible solutions to each of the challenges. The impact of these articles is not immediately apparent, but the newspaper has deserves praise for establishing a roadmap for Northwest Indiana’s future."

Finalist: Reporting Team (Cam Simpson, Flynn McRoberts, Liz Sly), Chicago Tribune, "Tossed Out of America"
" The Tribune articles exposed the human cost of the immigration crackdown that followed 9-11 and may have played an important role in ending the massive deportation of Muslim men, none of whom had been charged with terrorism."

Radio
Winner: Jay Field and Linda Paul with Julia McEvoy and Radio Arte students, WBEZ, "Between Two Worlds"
" Mental health outreach in mainstream society is challenging enough.  The series does a great job and public service in explaining the complexities involving mental health issues within Latino community. Good to hear youth voices in the mix."

Finalist: Adriene Hill and Steve Edwards, WBEZ, "Testing a Conviction: Darnell Williams and Death Row"
" Producers turned what could've been a typical death row story into a multidimensional piece.  Darnell Williams was the prime focus of the narrative, but the other characters and their stories were equally noteworthy."

Finalist: Steve Miller, WBBM, "Bad Brokers, Bad Mortgages"
" Good investigative work."

Television
Winner: Bob Arya, CLTV, "E-2 Scanner"
" Top-notch enterprise reporting, pursued against the odds, addressing a systemic problem that goes beyond the matter at hand. A prime example of what journalism ought to be, and well executed visually"

Finalist: Kevin Roy and Steve Erwin with Jaqueline Denn and Rodney Correll, WLS, "Armed and Asleep"
" Ambitious undercover enterprise work, addressing an overlooked issue of public concern."

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4. Features
A story or series on a subject of broad human interest, by a reporter or reporting team. Judges look for enterprise, accuracy, scope, style and impact.
Daily newspaper, circulation more than 300,000
Winner: Louise Kiernan, Chicago Tribune, "Descent Into Darkness"
" What is it that makes a story such an engaging read that you can't put it down until you're done, no matter how long it is. Writers have struggled to define that elusive element forever. Whatever it is, Louise Kiernan has it. This story went into great detail on the lives -- and deaths -- of two tragic women, culled no doubt from hour upon hour of research. Kiernan sheds light on a little-known, important subject that needs further exploration. Great writing, great reporting, public service: in short, everything journalism is supposed to be."

Finalist: Howard Reich, Chicago Tribune, "Prisoner of Her Past"
" Well-written story detailing a rare and unusual disorder. First person stories are among the most difficult to write, and Reich nails it, reporting on something very personal to him without becoming over-emotional or maudlin."

Finalist: Jacqueline Fitzgerald, Chicago Tribune, "A Career and a Life"
" What a fun read, a window into a very different time. This is the kind of story you talk about at the water cooler in the morning."

Daily newspaper, circulation less than 300,000
Winner: Tona Kunz, Daily Herald, "The Fight of His Life"
" Heart-breaking story was told fairly, but with compassion, as Kunz follows the events of a night that changed the course of two teens’ lives: one a quadriplegic, the other in jail for felony assault. Besides the compelling narrative, what put this one over the top was the sidebar delving into teenaged boys feeling they can’t back down or walk away from a fight."

Finalist: Diane Majeske, Post-Tribune, "This Is My Tomb"
" Majeske deftly presented a different take on the “Scared Straight” field trip, showing adolescents another reason they don’t want to cross the law."

Finalist: Allison Hantschel, Daily Southtown, "Three Countries, No Home"
" A Jordanian immigrant discovers he can’t come back to the U.S., apparently because of ties to Muslim charities."

Non-daily newspaper
Winner: Julie Sell, Chicago Reader, "Little Boy Lost"
" Deeply disturbing and sad, but also compelling and uplifting because of the prospective adoptive mom's tenacity at confronting the system. Excellent writing and sensitive treatment of a difficult subject."

Finalist: Laura Putre, Chicago Journal, "The Never-ending Story of the Mattress People"
" Nice, offbeat tale about the life that surrounds us and writers often don't see."

Finalist: Staff, Chicago Free Press, "Pride 2003"
" The writing style was sometimes a bit jarring, but I really liked the breadth of the series. It captured the maturation and the growing impact of the gay community in Chicago. With a bit more research and facts to give a broader perspective, this could have had the depth and weight to win."

General-circulation magazine
Winner: Don Terry, Chicago Tribune Magazine, "User Friendly"
" While tackling a topic that is hardly new, the writer delved into the subject with a fresh eye, and clearly spent a considerable amount of time with the subjects, winning their trust. The writer's eye for detail is unparalleled and he weaves them together into a very readable story. The issue is also clearly timely and important."

Finalist: Don Terry, Chicago Tribune Magazine, "My Private Chorus of Chaos"
" Powerful, poignant, heartbreaking. This story is all those things, and written with great skill. The writer took unconventional approaches to the writing, cobbling together journal entries with narrative. The result is a first-hand, never-before-read look at the horror of being schizophrenic."

Finalist: Carol Felsenthal, Chicago, "Dear Ann"
" An engrossing read the judges could not put down. Obviously, a lot of research went into it, and we discovered tidbits about the gossip columnist we never knew."

Trade, newsletter or special interest publication
Winner: Mick Dumke, Chicago Reporter, "Worrill's War"
Fascinating profile that managed to explain a movement by examining one man. Well-reported. Well-written to the point that the extremely long profile was practically an effortless read.

Finalist: Heather Cunningham, Chicago Parent, "Is Your Child Ready For School?"
" A humanized look at an interesting topic and a largely unaddressed issue: the ""redshirting"" of young children. That is, holding them back a grade to give them an academic advantage."

Finalist: Julie Johnsson, Crain's Chicago Business, "A Powerful Voice"
" Excellent read that grabs you from the beginning, nourishes you in the middle with plenty of history and background, and then explains why you should care. And also why the story isn't just a profile, but an insight into our society. Well-sourced, smoothly written."

Finalist: Richard Haugh, Hospitals & Health Networks, "Motor City Blues"
" An important story about the fragile condition of our medical systems of last resort. A strong compelling case is made by effective use of statistics and facts. And it's written clearly enough to make it understandable -- and scary -- for the average reader."

News bureau, wire service or on-line media
Finalist: Howard Reich and Chicagotribune.com Staff, Chicago Tribune Interactive, "Prisoner of Her Past"
" A page-turner from beginning to end. Thorough research – historical, medical and personal – in a compelling narrative."

Finalist: Sharon Cohen, Associated Press, "Courage on Friction Pitch"
" I felt like I was a reading a Drama in Real Life from Reader’s Digest."

Radio
Winner: Tony Sarabia and Edward Lifson, WBEZ, "Chicago's 1st Subway"
" Creative use of period music, ambience beds and clear writing."

Finalist: Bob Roberts, WBBM, "Shawnee Garage"
" A clever look at a service station in business since the 1920s. Fast paced, judiciously edited -- and we find out the reporter is the son of the owner."

Finalist: Linda Paul, WBEZ, "John's Live Poultry"
" A touching vignette of one of the nation's last ""live"" poultry shop. It virtually teems with ethnicity. Nice touch, the way the ""inevitable"" death of the chicken is handled."

Television
Winner: Jay Shefsky, WTTW, "Angels Too Soon"
" A riveting return to one of Chicago's worst tragedies as seen through the eyes of those who survived and a community that will never forget."

Finalist: Jay T. Smith and Tim Boyd, WTTW, "Polio in Chicago"
" The story makes very effective use of archival footage and Polio survivors to make the scourge the disease once was...fresh in our minds."

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5. Columns and commentary
A series on a single topic, or three examples illustrating general excellence. Judges look for analytical skill, accuracy, scope, style and impact.
Columnist, daily newspaper
Winner: John Kass, Chicago Tribune
" These columns are powerfully reasoned and beautifully written. The “Teen stupidity” piece grips a reader with its personal story from years ago, from a time when the face of fatherhood could be gruff. Since reading it, I have thought often of the image of the smashed glass. Kass doesn’t mention the high school hazing incident, the column’s hook, until nearly the end. He keeps the reader riveted with his personal yet universal story. In “Police waiting,” Kass does a fine and funny job of saying exactly what’s happening without ever having to use specific words involving excrement. He made some calls, but it reads like a column rather than a news story. It’s an effortless read about a stolen diamond. The “Duff indictments” column weighs into a complex political scene. The simple line “They asked me why they don’t ever see my children playing in the front yard of my home in the suburbs” is a chilling reminder of what was at stake in the legal proceeding. Great job, too, with the atmosphere of the Chicago steakhouse"

Finalist: Burt Constable, Daily Herald
" I laughed all the way through the nude bowling column, which captures both the wacky scene and the writer’s unease at being there. It is difficult to write humor, and Constable pulls it off wonderfully. The piece about assassinations shows a good deal of research and thought on a prickly issue. It also shows this columnist’s range. On one hand, Constable writes in a breezy style about bowlers without britches, on the other he presents a thoughtful argument against killing a foreign despot. He is effective at both. The Cubs column was sweet. In recognizing memories of fans who were deceased, it touched on a love of the team and the game that crosses generations."

Finalist: Kristen McQueary, Daily Southtown
" Judges were asked to look for analytical skill, accuracy, scope, style and impact. In her columns and news stories about the Thornton Township trustee’s residence, McQueary had impact. She affected change. The columns show dogged persistence in showing that the official lived outside the area he was elected to serve. The news, two months after the initial column, that Jim Giglio had resigned from the position he had held for years was gratifying evidence of the power of the pen. Nice job going further than the facts, and writing from a historian’s point of view about taxation without representation."

Columnist, non-daily newspaper, news bureau, wire service or on-line media
Winner: Dan Weissmann, Chicago Journal
" Weissman’s column is thoughtful and entertaining, providing the reader a good analysis of local schools news. Well put together and consistent."

Finalist: James W. McElhaney, American Bar Association Journal
" McElhaney on Litigation is a great, creative monthly bit that provides clear trial advice for its readership."

Finalist: Dave Jaffe, Chicago Parent
" Jaffe’s light column offers a good dose of humor for readers."

Editorial writer
Winner: David Beery, Daily Herald
" Beery provides lucid, insightful analysis of controversial local issues. In an engaging, accessible style, he gives readers the lay of the land by providing adequate context, and brings tricky nuances to the surface, making them understandable. He offers solutions where they’ll help, food for thought when that time has passed. In each of the editorials submitted, he left readers and policymakers with powerful points to ponder."

Finalist: Gail Mansfield and William S. Bike with Mark J. Valentino, Near West/South Gazette, Little Italy editorials
" These editorials offer an in-depth, solution-oriented analysis of a potentially divisive local issue. The first editorial takes the reader on a tour of a multi-ethnic neighborhood whose future is at stake, illustrating beautifully what makes it a special place worth preserving. The writers go on to thoroughly explore the history of efforts to change and market the neighborhood, and use that backdrop to offer suggestions for an inclusive process that avoid mistakes of the past. These are the kinds of editorials that can truly have an effect on public policy and people’s lives."

Finalist: Ed Koziarski, Daily Southtown, "Metra in the Southland"
" These timely and sharply worded editorials give voice to what is surely widely held public resentment over the area’s treatment by transit authorities. Outrage over injustice comes across, but is tempered artfully by civility and constructive calls for change."

Broadcast commentary
Winner: Amy Dorn and Cate Cahan, WBEZ, "Growing Up in the Minority"
" Thought provoking and interesting personal tale, raising questions without pointing fingers."

Finalist: Ray Salazar, WBEZ, "Moving"

Finalist: Justin Kaufmann and Schadenfreude, WBEZ, "Sponges"

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6. Editorial cartoon
Up to six examples of the work of a single editorial cartoonist. Judges look for creativity, technical mastery and impact. One award.
Winner: Jack Higgins, Chicago Sun-Times
" Higgins brings a taut conciseness to his cartoons, which are an effective mix of emotional strength and quirky humor. He uses each appropriately within the context of the topics he addresses. His ""Cubs Fan"" group therapy cartoon was particularly strong, considering the audience to which it was directed."

Finalist: Roger Schillerstrom, Crain's Chicago Business
" Schillerstrom's professionalism shines through immediately in his accomplished drawing style. His unraveling baseball is a perfect example of an editorial cartoon that manages to make its point with a minimum of verbiage."

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7. Business reporting
A story or series on a single consumer or financial subject. Judges look for enterprise, accuracy, scope, style and impact.
Daily newspaper, circulation more than 300,000
Winner: Jim Kirk, Chicago Tribune, "The Rise and Fall of Network Chicago"
" The writer wove a tale with all the elements of a first-rate business story: a beloved product, big egos, and plans gone wrong. The story offers a close-up look at a cit institution and provide the kind of local impact that most financial sections strive for. Good read."

Finalist: David Greising, Chicago Tribune, "Motorola, Turkey Chase Family for Missing Billions"

Finalist: Andrew Countryman, Chicago Tribune, "The Ultimate Insiders"

Daily newspaper, circulation less than 300,000
Winner: Andrea Holecek, The Times, "Bidding for National Steel"
" There's something to be said for owning a story, and Andrea Holocek did it with her coverage of the bid for National Steel. The body of work deserves recognition for blending breaking news and context while offering good story-telling. As rival AK Steel enters the high-stakes fray, the reporting does a good job exploring the relationships between the companies – offering some strong ""inside baseball."""

Finalist: Lisa Shidler, Post-Tribune, "Breaking the Mold"
" Breaking the Mold could have been a predictable piece about women in unusual settings. But the choice to organize this as bite-sized vignettes and give your photographers a chance to shine made this worthy of recognition. The writing was strong: good leads, first quotes that resonated, and real endings. Coupled with the photography, it was entertaining – and at the same time – shed light on the deeper issues of being a woman in a traditionally man's environment."

Finalist: Mike Comerford, Daily Herald, "The Race to Fight AIDS"
" The Race to Fight AIDS has the markings of a well-crafted enterprise piece borne from strong source relationships. A long piece, it does a good job of weaving profile with fact, and had a descriptive lead that gave readers a good sense of the scientist portrayed. It goes a long way in putting a face with the amorphous thing that is AIDS research."

Non-daily publication, news bureau, wire service or on-line media
Winner: Jill Blackman and Stephen Rynkiewicz, Chicago Tribune Interactive, "United's Rhapsody of Blues"
" This report took full advantage of the online medium to present a fully textured report that gives the reader a real understanding of United's woes. 'Rhapsody' is a testament to what newspapers can do with stories on the Web."

Finalist: Michael Arndt and Pallavi Gogoi, Business Week, "McDonald's Hamburger Hell"
" Well written and well reported. The story answers many consumers' questions about why their once favorite fast food chain is favored no longer."

Finalist: Robert Reed, Chicago, "Flight Delay"
" An insightful look at how Chicago's deal with Boeing may have left the city with the short end of the stick."

Television
Winner: Larry Yellen and Diane Carbonara with Chuck Quinzio and Tim Smith, WFLD, "Invisible Owners/Mortgage Fraud"
" WFLD-TV's two-part series on the 'credit investors' mortgage scheme was TV investigation at its best. It had crisp writing, effective use of graphics and illustrations, strong multiple sources, and pathos. While judges had a few questions about developer Perry's prior bankruptcy, and what happened when credit investors not pictured were contacted, we felt that this was an impact piece. especially when low-income people appear as victims."

Finalist: Larry Yellen and Lou Hinkhouse, WFLD, "Coke Isn’t It"
" In 'Coke Isnn't It,' clear writing and swiftly-paced editing made this an entertaining piece. While at times a bit simplistic and without a lot of business data depth, the many voices and faces in the piece made it worthy of recognition. It was clear that the reporter and producer were having fun with the topic - something all too often ignored."

Finalist: Amy Simons and Greg Prather, CLTV, "Your Money: Latino Business"
" 'Your Money' was well-crafted and contained a nice range of imagery in its goal to profile a series of Latino small businesses. The organization and structure of the program was at times predictable and didn't offer much of a 'wow' factor or push boundaries. But the piece showed effort and personality, and is worthy of finalist recognition."

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8. Arts and entertainment journalism
For reporting, a story or series on a single topic in the arts or popular culture, by a reporter or reporting team. Judges look for enterprise, accuracy, scope, style and impact. For criticism, a series on a single topic, or three reviews or critiques illustrating general excellence. Judges look for analytical skill, accuracy, scope, style and impact.
Reporting, daily publication
Winner: Chris Jones, Chicago Tribune, "No More Mr. Nice Guy"
This story avoided what could have been an insipid piece about famous "Friends" star David Schwimmer and instead crafted a well rounded story about the challenges Schwimmer faces as he tries to take on the more serious world of Chicago theater.

Finalist: Ted Cox, Daily Herald, "If It Bleeds, Does It Lead?"
" This is a good service piece, which looks at whether or not there really is more crime and violence stories on local news. The writer appears to have spent a lot of time tracking it and researching it. It is very well sourced. The chart showing what each station did was a great addition. It did a good job of explaining why stations tend to do these stories more than enterprise pieces. A great reader service story."

Finalist: Mark Guarino, Daily Herald, "Peace Unplugged"
" A very good, very strong, topical story, especially considering when it was written - during the war, at the peak of the Dixie Chicks controversy. It is a thoughtful piece that examines the absence (and suppression) of a dissenting voice in music. It is well sourced and gives excellent context in regards to other times of war. The writing could have been a little tighter, but overall a very good read."

Reporting, non-daily publication
Winner: Robert Loerzel, Pioneer Press, "Almost Famous"
" This is a very good story, tracing the legacy of a song written more than 20 years ago that continues to have legs. It is a great example of how a little local story, if written and researched properly, can become a story worthy of publication in any one of a number of national publications. The writing is excellent and offers plenty of color and context. It gives the reader history without reading like a history lesson. It is also very well sourced. An enjoyable read. "

Finalist: Jim Sonnenberg, Crain's Chicago Business, "The Thrill Is Going"
" This well rounded story captures the reader with a great contextual anecdote in the lead graphs and follows up with solid material about an entertainment institution that is losing its relevance and its revenue in this new era of music."

Finalist: Elizabeth M. Tamny, Chicago Reader, "Secret Recipe"
" The elegant style of this piece pays appropriate homage to the story's subject, M.F.K. Fisher."

Criticism, print publication
Winner: Dann Gire, Daily Herald, film reviews
" Film criticism that has fun with the subject - what a concept! Too often film critics spend too much time trying to show off their technical knowledge and the intellectual skills. These pieces are full of wit, bite and all the information a reader needs to know about whether or not he should see the movie. Gire doesn't '[dumb it down' but he writes in a style that is entertaining and readable. He also reveals his knowledge of film and provides context when needed. Three wonderful reads. "

Finalist: Laura Levy Shatkin, Chicago Reader, "Wine and Dine"
" A great idea put together in a brief, distinct style. Good reader service piece. Great example of what smaller papers bring to their readership - news they can use."

Finalist: Ted Cox, Daily Herald, "Mediaopoly"
" The changes in FCC rules of newspaper and television ownership is a weightly topic to cover, and one that readers often skip over because they don't see how this will impact them. Cox does a very good job of explaining why readers should care and includes information on what readers can do to voice their thoughts with the proper officials. An excellent reader service collection that follows the whole story. Very well done. "

Reporting or criticism, radio
Winner: Cheryl Corley, National Public Radio, "Portrait of Street Musician"
" Great, fast paced profile of this musician: The writing was wonderful, the delivery was great, the mix was present. But most of all, I loved the tape in the story. Corley managed to evoke this person in a short story because she got him to talk to her."

Finalist: Annie Baxter and Edward Lifson, WBEZ, "Chicago Architecture and Sex"
" This story was very high style: The music choices helped enliven visual art for the radio. But what made the piece standout was the reporter's wonderfully descriptive writing and saucy delivery. It was fun to listen to, and created great imagery."

Finalist: Edward Lifson, WBEZ, "Farnsworth House"
" A lovely story about a topic that is hard to evoke on radio. Bringing the architect out to the house to talk about it was a wonderful idea, and really helped the listener envision this place. I liked the writing, and the fact that the reporter helped non-architecture experts understand the significance of this building and the man who designed it."

Reporting or criticism, television
Winner: Mark Saxenmeyer and David Tresnowski with Lou Hinkhouse, WFLD, "The Simpsons Symphony"
" Brilliant. Great to see such a creative and thoroughly reported piece about the arts on television; well done."

Finalist: Kevin Roy and Rich Hillengas with Jaqueline Denn, Jim Mastri and Tom "Great job of pulling back the curtain on a very popular form of entertainment."

Finalist: Steve Dolinsky, WLS, "Hungry Hound" reports
" Enterprising, good presence, full of cultural tidbits, reflecting community through food."

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9. Sports journalism
For reporting, a story or series on a single subject by an individual or reporting team. Judges look for enterprise, accuracy, scope, style and impact. For commentary, a series on a single topic or three columns illustrating general excellence. Judges look for analytical skill, accuracy, scope, style and impact.
Reporting, daily publication
Winner: Brian C. Hedger, The Times, "Unsinkable Spirit"
" This story intrigued me. I don't really understand extreme sports fans, but this article so nicely humanized one man's story with lots of great details -- the videotape delivered to defend his long-time devotion, the broom in the front yard, the lack of sleep when his team loses. Then it turns the phenomenon on its head with the team shunning him, seemingly inexplicably. The image -- 'his body sags, a human balloon with a leak' -- perfectly captured his dejection. It was a great twist to the tale. "

Finalist: Sue Ter Maat, Daily Herald, "Pressure to Get Off the Field: Young Girl's Football Death"
" This story had a great anecdotal lead to illustrate the emotion surrounding the issue of girls participating in sports traditionally exclusive to boys. The issue was well supported with stats, research and lots of sourcing. It really gave the story a broader context and provided plenty of information to help readers develop their own opinion on the issue. The mix of anecdotes and data really carried the story along. The side bar on Title IX was a smart inclusion. "

Finalist: Tony Baranek, Daily Southtown, "Why Do They Stay? For Love of the Game"
" Baranek had a number of strong contenders for this award -- his writing is crisp, descriptive and well organized. I really enjoyed this article about less than stellar athletes that nonetheless remain devoted to the game. The heartbreak and perseverance of these two students was captivating. With the hype and money and ego plaguing sports, it was refreshing to read about the honesty, pride and passion with which some players still pursue their sport."

Reporting, non-daily publication, news bureau, wire service or on-line media
Winner: David Murray, Chicago, "Sweet Spot"
" This story has all the makings of an award-winning sports piece, chronicling the tradition and human impact that a small nine-hole golf course can have on its community. Murray took chances, giving an honest look at the Sipula family and the sport that has bound its members for over half a century."

Finalist: Robert Kurson, Chicago, "The Man with the Golden Arm"
" The story was engaging and comprehensive, giving the reader a good look at the history behind Mark Prior's successful rise to the bigs."

Finalist: Ted Kliene, Chicago Reader, "At the Track"
" This was an interesting look at the infrequently covered world of horse racing and the colorful characters that populate it."

Commentary, print publication, news bureau, wire service or on-line media
Winner: Phil Arvia, Daily Southtown
Arvia grabbed readers within the first few lines of his stories, which is the goal of most writing, whether it is sports, fiction or business. Arvia also took a bold approach to controversial and potentially sappy topics, which are often difficult to execute without sinking into melodrama. I truly enjoyed reading his stories."

Finalist: Brian C. Hedger, The Times
" Hedger knows his beat, but he does not overwhelm you with that knowledge by burdening his columns with too many facts and figures. His writing flowed and his quotes were strong. It was hard to find anything wrong with his tight evocative prose. The writing of Arvia and Hedger clearly stood out from other sportswriting."

Finalist: Greg Couch, Chicago Sun-Times
"Couch did sports fans everywhere a great service with his series on ticket brokering, and he did it with a writing style that did not become overbearing. Instead, the columns were balanced, tightly written and fun to read, which are no small feats when writing about such a topic."

Radio
Winner: Cisco Cotto, WLS, "Gone Fishing"
"What a fun story! We were cold just listening to it. Nice writing, great tape."

Finalist: Jeff Joniak, WBBM, "Super Bowl"
" Tape really moved. Loved the swish sound."

Finalist: Bob Cook, National Public Radio, "All Things Considered" commentaries
" Very funny and very clever."

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10. Science reporting
A story or series on a single subject in science, health, medicine, environment or technology, by a reporter or reporting team. Judges look for enterprise, accuracy, scope, style and impact.
Print publication, news bureau, wire service or on-line media
Winner: Julia Keller, Chicago Tribune, "The Broken Brain"
" This was simply an amazing series. Keller was successful on many levels, mixing informative material about neuroscience with gripping narratives about people afflicted by brain trauma. This judge was particularly impressed by the way the author was able to clearly explain the science without dumbing down the material. In short the Tribune should give Keller a raise, because she's earned it with this one."

Finalist: Lorilyn Rackl, Daily Herald, "Why DES Should Stay on Our Radar Screens"
" Important coverage about a topic that has dropped out of the limelight in recent years."

Finalist: Mark Hansen, American Bar Association Journal, "Beastly Evidence"
" This was an interesting and well-written story."

Radio
Winner: Melba Lara and Robbie Harris, WBEZ, "HIV & Youth"
" An eye-opening, comprehensive account of the increase in HIV among youth. The strength of the piece are the characters: Youth infected with HIV, social workers and scientists trying to solve the problem."

Finalist: Jay Field, WBEZ, "Anti-Depressants and Sex Life Choices"
" This is an issue we've all heard about, but the story comes alive through the personal account of one woman. The reporter succeeded in bringing dignity and empathy to a taboo topic."

Finalist: Steve Grzanich, WBBM, "The Download Dilemma: Facing the Music"
" Nice pacing and production to this series. The reporter successful captured a pivotal moment in the intersection of technology and music."

Television
Winner: Leah Hope and Jaqueline Denn, WLS, "Animal Emotions"

Finalist: Leah Hope and Rodney Correll with Jaqueline Denn, Rich Hillengas, Christine Tressel and Mary Beth Gannon, WLS, "DNA and Skin's Secret Code"

Finalist: Sylvia Perez and Christine Tressel with Pat Keating and Ann Esp, WLS, "West Nile Virus and Children"

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11. Photojournalism
A photograph or series of photographs on a single subject; for videography, a video sequence of up to 10 minutes on a single subject. Judges look for enterprise, technical mastery and impact.
Spot news, print media
Winner: Joseph P. Meier and Chris Sweda, Daily Southtown, "E2 Tragedy"
" Very intimate pictures of a very public event. Technically great."

Finalist: John Starks, Daily Herald, "Fan Fight"
" Good moment, photographer should be commended for turning his lens off the field, and for sharp eyes in a sea of humanity to capture this moment."

Feature, daily publication
Winner: Chris Sweda, Daily Southtown, "I Want to Walk"
" Incredible story, you feel it. The way it's shot you immediately come close to this boy and his family."

Finalist: Joseph P. Meier, Daily Southtown, "Cubs fans at a Loss"
" Every element in the frame contributes to the feeling of loss."

Finalist: Jay Drowns, The Times, "Smelting"
" Fantastic use of light, surreal quality makes you say, 'Wow.'"

Feature, non-daily publication
Winner: John R. Boehm, Crain's Chicago Business, "Crain's 25th Anniversary"
" Visually inventive, nice layering, more creative portraits than we typically see."

Finalist: Marc Hauser, Chicago, "Their Favorite Things"
" Very inventive, gratifying to see a photographer take a ""person and their stuff"" assignment seriously."

Finalist: Matthew Gilson, Chicago, "The Magnificent Seven"
" Sucessful mix of color and b&w, visually and technically very solid."

Sports, print media
Winner: Nuccio DiNuzzo, Chicago Tribune, "Fall at the Finish"
" Awesome: Perfect moment, you can see everything, technically perfect."

Finalist: Brian Hill, Daily Herald, "Fouled Up"
" We've seen this shot from many different photogs; this one does a great job of capturing the decisive moment."

Finalist: David Banks, Star Newspapers, "Victory Is Hers"
" Great moment, great expression, conveys the joy of amateur sports."

Videography
Winner: Michael D'Angelo, CLTV, "Table Tennis"

Finalist: Nathan Delack, CLTV, "Horn Lady"

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12. News design
A series or section on a single subject, or three examples illustrating general excellence. For headlines, up to six examples illustrating general excellence. Judges look for creativity, clarity and impact.
General circulation newspaper: news, commentary or op-ed
Winner: Robb Montgomery, Chicago Sun-Times, "The New American Teen"
" Visually weaving together the stories of 15 very different teens over a span of three days while maintaining a cohesive, compelling design is no small task,, but Montgomery pulls it off while making it look effortless."

Finalist: Matt Saltanovitz, The Times, "Here's Michael," "Mayoral Rematch," "Smelting"
" Excellent use of photography and illustration in a manner that was loud enough to call attetion to the story, but never overpowered the text."

Finalist: Joe Greco and Jeff Coffey, Post-Tribune, front pages
" A fine use of color, typography and simple.Clean layout made me wonder what was on the inside-which is exactly what a front page is supposed to do. Well done."

General circulation newspaper: features or sports
Winner: Mike Rice and Erin Hein, The Times, "Lonely," "Blame," "Nicknames"
" 'Lonely's' use of white space as an isolating agent, 'Blame's' nod to classic rock posters and the chaotic jumble of words that comprise the header to 'Nicknames' struck three visual chords. And three chords, in this case, make the visual equivalent of a really great rock song. I've got my Zippo out. Encore! Encore!"

Finalist: Sandra Sempowicz, Daily Southtown, Life cover designs
" The summery pastel color palette of Spring Zing, the blues of Violin Vision, and the reds of Love is on the Clock show a great understanding and use of color. The clever selection, use and placement of type were likewise excellent. But my favorite element was the ironic plaement of a review for the book "How to Be Popular" under a feature on speed dating. Neat-o."

Finalist: John Gard and Jeff Coffey, Post-Tribune, features covers
" The big story was the emphasis on each page of the Big Story. Great use of photography as a tool instead of a crutch."

Magazine, trade, newsletter or special interest publication
Winner: Hector Sanchez, Chicago, "The 2003 Dining Awards," "The Magnificent Seven," "The Devil's Comic"
" Hector Sanchez wouldn't know me from Adam We live on opposite sides of the country, and we've never met. But I know him from Eve Harrington, and I can truthfully say that I hate him with a passion that only Margo Channing would understand. Professional jealousy is like that, and I can think of no higher praise."

Finalist: Karen Kellams and Thomas J. Linden, Crain's Chicago Business, "40 Under 40"
" The concept may not be fresh, but the execution sure was. Great portrait photography, well designed layout. Clean, crisp and business like. Well done."

Finalist: Karen Kellams, Crain's Chicago Business, "2003 in Review"
" There's a lot going on in this piece-a LOT-but I never felt lost or overwhelmed."

Headlines
Winner: Thomas J. Linden and Staff (Timothy Mollette-Parks, Joseph B. Cahill, Ann Dwyer), Crain's Chicago Business
" Clever but never cloying, accurate with attitude, and not a groan-worthy pun in the bunch."

Finalist: Lisa Yee, Sun Publications
" Ah! Here come the groan-worthy puns! (The Halloween Decorator who hopes to "eek" out a living being the chief offender). Still, the clever wordplay abounds and amuses."

Informational Graphics
Winner: Jason McGregor and Tim Broderick with Melissa Phee, Daily Herald, "Printing for the 21st Century"
" I'm not sure how many people actually CARE about how the new presses at the Daily Herald work, but looking at this, anyone can at least understand how they work. Which is precisely what an informational graphic should do."

Finalist: Jason McGregor and Mark Welsh, Daily Herald, "Welcome to Soldier Field"
" From a spectator standpoint, I found everything I'd want to know about the Bears' new stadium except the location of the concession stands and the price of beer. Well done. "

Finalist: Greg Good, Chicago Sun-Times, "Chicago's Millennium Park"
" A nifty 3D illustration and the nice use of pull-out photographs. Good job."

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No awards were presented in these categories: In-depth reporting, Spanish-language media; Public service, collaboration of two or more news organizations; Features, Spanish-language media; Business reporting, radio; Sports journalism, television reporting or commentary; and News design, on-line media.