Place Name: First Place Contestant Name: Colfax - Jasper County Tribune Entry Title: This pencil collection is on point Entry Credit: Christopher Braunschweig Judge Comment: A delightful read about a 36-year-old's attempt to break a world record for the size of his pencil collection. Very engaging — I had to look up whether he won (he did). Also, love the first sentence.
Place Name: Second Place Contestant Name: Perry - Perry Chief Entry Title: Community looking for answers after football season ends early Entry Credit: Sean Cordy, Allison Ullmann Judge Comment: Why did the Perry Community School District suspend its varsity high school football team for the rest of the season, weeks after the team broke a five-year losing streak? Good job explaining the issue and providing context (why this is unusual for Perry because of its size) up high, before the jump.
Place Name: Third Place Contestant Name: Traer - North Tama Telegraph Entry Title: State Auditor Rob Sand visits Tama Co. with his mom and bernedoodle Entry Credit: Ruby McAllister Judge Comment: This reporter writes with authority and a keen eye for the details that will resonate with readers.
