Place Name: First Place Contestant Name: Keokuk - Daily Gate City Entry Title: Railroad companies: policies and impacts of Lee County Entry Credit: Erika Barrett Judge Comment: This series has it all -- it strikes the fear in you with details and data you couldn't fathom; it has real consequences when companies neglect the human side of the job and it poses resolutions, if only people will stop looking at profits. If reporting can be a three act play, this series embodied it-heroes, villains, and a way forward for those willing to care to read it. It answered some long-held questions about where the cabooses went, and why we're sitting at crossings longer and longer. Solid journalism that focuses on safety and protecting the public on and off the tracks. Bravo.
Place Name: Second Place Contestant Name: Oskaloosa - The Oskaloosa Herald Entry Title: The South Central Regional Airport Entry Credit: Emily Hawk, Channing Rucks Judge Comment: This series painted a picture we read about too often- David vs. Goliath. Both sides have their arguments on legacy and growth, but juxtaposing the two and letting the impacted farmers share their stories, makes the project more impactful. We get to know the faces, empathize while sitting on the edge of our seats hoping eminent domain doesn't happen before the series ends. And with the governmental rep voicing her plans of it not happening, it tells a real story of work, struggle, hope and optimism. Good work.
Place Name: Third Place Contestant Name: Newton - Newton News Entry Title: Election coverage Entry Credit: Christopher Braunschweig Judge Comment: It's rare that an election story is reported with heart and that's what this series did. Instead of offering stats and data, the human side of hopeful politicians-seasoned and newbies was reported, giving us a glimpse at the humanity in politics on a day that can change their lives and those of many others. Well done.
