Archive
CCNA photo award winners, with judges comments
As previously done for the CCNA’s special competitions and writing awards, I’m going to recap the B.C. and Yukon winners of the CCNA photo awards and ignore everyone else. So without further, or really any, ado, here we go.
Best Spot News Photo – Circ. 4,000 to 12,499
GOLD – Kevin Grumtza, Redwater (AB) Review
SILVER – Wawmeesh G. Hamilton, Port Alberni (BC) Alberni Valley News
Judge Ted Brown: “Second place winner Wawmeesh G. Hamilton of the Alberni Valley News in British Columbia had an equally strong photo of a person in a wheelchair being attended to by a paramedic after being hit by a car. With its tight cropping, all the elements of the photo tell the story – the two people, the crumpled wheelchair – nothing else is needed. The only thing that would have improved this photo would have been to run it larger, so the interaction of the two people was more visible.”
BRONZE – Josephine Johnson, Clarenville (NL) The Packet
Best Spot News Photo – Circ. more than 1250
GOLD – David Mah, Prince George (BC) Prince George Citizen
Judge Lyonel Doherty wrote: “It was a joy to see the work of so many talented photographers in this category – a tough category to compete in, not to mention judge. Some photographers entered technically great picture, but the “spot news” aspect just wasn’t there in the true sense of the term. In my mind, these photos would have finished in the top three in other categories, such as best sports or feature photo.
“But David Mah from the Prince George Citizen didn’t fall into that gray area. His photo of a ‘gunned down’ homicide victim took top honours for obvious reasons. He was there to capture this horrific moment even before the sheet was draped over the deceased. His photo is the definition of spot news despite the morbid
subject matter. The cutline could have been longer, but the story explains it all.”
SILVER – Andrew Leong, Duncan (BC) Cowichan News Leader Pictorial
Doherty wrote: “Kudos to Andrew Leong from the Cowichan News Leader Pictorial for his Norman Rockwell approach. This truly classic photo of a firefighter consoling a child almost earned him first place; it was that close. He captured everything – spot news, emotion, great composition and exposure.”
BRONZE – Dave Eagles, Kamloops (BC) Kamloops This Week
Doherty wrote: “Looking at the photo by Dave Eagles from Kamloops This Week really made me feel for the distraught homeowner. When I first started pouring over the 46 entries, this was the photo I immediately set aside, knowing it would likely make the top three. Dave definitely caught the moment here; a second later and it may have been lost. A more tightly cropped photo would have made the image even stronger. Photographers who want to win categories like this have to step out of their comfort zone and go where others are afraid to go. Being there at the right time helps, too.“
Best Feature Photo – Circ. up to 3,999
GOLD – Lachlan Labere, Sicamous (BC) Eagle Valley News
Judge Debra Downey wrote: “Lachlan Labere’s photograph of Girl Guides preparing to lay wreaths during the Remembrance Day ceremony stood out above the crowd for the sheer emotion it invokes in the viewer. The youngsters’ faces reveal the pain and puzzlement of the moment, all perfectly framed and captured in vivid colour.”
SILVER – Karen Longwell, Bracebridge (ON) Examiner
BRONZE – Pan Snow, Lewisporte (NL) The Pilot
Best Feature Photo – Circ. 4,000 to 12,499
Judge Reg Vertolli wrote: “Out of the three categories that we usually see in photojournalism (news sports and features) feature seems to be the category that is misunderstood the most. At times we will see photos from the other two categories inadvertently entered into the feature category or perhaps some photos may have a double life. Judging the feature photo category can be as difficult as entering. Due to the different interpretations of the category’s definition it collects a wide array of images. In photojournalism, feature photos are defined as an ‘unposed shot with eye-catching subject matter and storytelling qualities.’ The topic arose recently on the National Press photographers Internet discussion where one member defined them as ‘photos that celebrate life,’ and another said it was a ‘slice of life that could catch the reader’s attention.’ In my opinion the best definition is to create an exceptional image that captures a moment during a common, everyday occurance.”
GOLD – Ian Stewart, Whitehorse/Yukon Territory (YT) The Yukon News
Vertolli wrote: “The Yukon News stood out as the clear first placewinner. The photo was a delight to look at and reminded me of an impressionist painting. While simple in execution, the image leaves you with a sense of awe for nature and may have been a moment that another photographer would have overlooked or missed completely.”
SILVER – Krista Bryce, Nanaimo (BC) Nanaimo Daily News
Vertolli: “Nanaimo Daily News’ image is totally different then the first place photo. The moment
in the photo is captured with layers of story telling components well placed from the foreground to the
background.”
BRONZE – Steve Dills, Sylvan Lake (AB) News
Best Feature Photo – Circ. more than 12,500
Judge Connie Tabbert also mused about what makes a feature photo: “Every reporter should know how to take a good feature photo. Now, the question is, what is a feature photo. For this judge, it’s a photo that can stand on its own. For some reporters, it would seem it’s a photo that goes with a feature story.
“As I reviewed each tear sheet, it was clear which would be the winning photo because it jumped right out
at me. I had a reaction to it right away — it made me laugh, which made me want to read the cutline. While
reviewing the photos, 10 stood out right away. While it saves space, editors should remember not to ruin a
good photo by putting print on it. Photographers should also remember not to take the same photos over
and over for various themes, such as rodeos and end of the school year. The top three photos were very close, coming in one point away from each other.”
GOLD – Sean Connor, Kelowna (BC) Capital News
Tabbert: “The first place photo by Sean Connor … is wonderful. It got a reaction from me right away. I even showed it to a co-worker at the time. It has news value, can stand on its own and the cutline says it all in one sentence. Sean was in the right place at the right time for this photo. The editor also saw the potential of a great photo and made it front and centre.”
SILVER – Don Denton, Victoria (BC) Victoria News
Tabbert: “Photographer Don Denton, Victoria News, Victoria, B.C., captured this photo at the right moment. It made me think of the movie The Birds by Alfred Hitchcock. I felt bad for the young girl. I can only hope it didn’t keep Sophie from coming back to feed the birds. It was a good second-place finisher.“
BRONZE – Jon Borgstrom, Georgetown/Acton (ON) Independent/Free Press
Best Sports Photo – Circ. more than 12,50
GOLD – Paul Rudan, Campbell River (BC) Campbell River Mirror
Judge Eric Howald wrote: “The Campbell River Mirror’s Paul Rudan captures the moment after the White Sox win the PeeWee House league championship. The photo was well displayed and the reproduction was excellent.”
SILVER – Paul VanPeenen, Coquitlam/Pt. Coquitlam/Pt. Moody (BC) The Now
Howald wrote: “It takes time and patience to get a good volleyball shot like the one entered by Paul VanPeenen of Coquitlam Now and high school gyms have notoriously poor lighting in which to work. It’s a good photo and shows the intensity of the game.
BRONZE – Ron Pietroniro, Oshawa (ON) This Week
Best Photo Essay – Circ. up to 3,999
GOLD – Patricia Harcourt, Tofield (AB) Mercury
SILVER – Janice Huser, St. Paul (AB) St. Paul Journal
BRONZE – Alicia Newman, Powell River (BC) The Powell River Peak
Judge Shelley Lipke wrote: “Alicia Newman’s essay of the Olympic Torch relay stood out from other entries of the same category for third place.”
Best Sports Photo – Circ. 4,000 to 12,499
Judge Vern Faulkner wrote: “Too many entrants felt that slapping a collection of random pictures onto a page would do the trick – not so. The three nominees (and a few of the runners-up) got the idea: tell a story. Think of insets. Conjure emotion. Kelly Clemmer (x2) and Mike Thomas got this. Good collection of faces, good storytelling, excellent arrangement of images carried the day.
“A suggestion to others: Rodeos are popular – but if there’s a half-dozen rodeo collages, what will set yours apart? Show me the clown drinking during a break. Show me a cowboy taping up a gimped leg. Show me an inset of a cowboy boot and a mud-encrusted, broken spur. Make me feel the sweat, dirt and mid-summer sun. Same with parades – what makes your parade pictures different? Think creatively! (And please, don’t over-sharpen!)”
GOLD – Kelly Clemmer, Wainwright (AB) Edge
SILVER – Mike Thomas, Whitehorse/Yukon Territory (YT) The Yukon News
BRONZE – Kelly Clemmer, Wainwright (AB) The Wainwright Star
Best Sports Photo – Circ. more than 12,500
GOLD – R Peitronico, R Pfeiffer, S Byrnes, J Liebregts, Oshawa (ON) This Week
SILVER – Sabrina Byrnes, Whitby (ON) This Week
BRONZE – Staff entry, Westshore (BC) Goldstream News
Judge Karen Wells wrote: “The third place staff entry from the Goldstream News Gazette featured A Day In The Life of West Shore. This entry was neck and neck with another similar Day in the Life entry but came out on top with an appealing front page and variety of photos that covered every aspect of the life in the West Shore from a singer songwriter in her bedroom at midnight, music in her bedroom just after midnight, to people washing their trucks at a car wash, and a barber shop haircut to the area nightlife. An entertaining collection.”
Best Photo Illustration – Circ. open
GOLD – Gladzy Kei Zuniga, Jasper (AB) The Fitzhugh
SILVER – Troy Landreville, Langley (BC) Langley Advance
Judge Laura Schmid wrote: “This composition was seamless, flowing and balanced – a perfect example of how a simple idea can speak volumes when well executed. The image’s background creates a sense of motion, and the skater’s pose and facial expression capture determination and hope. The illustration was fresh approach and related directly to the headline, enticing viewers to read on.”
BRONZE – Colleen Green, Port Perry (ON) Scugog/Uxbridge Standard
CCNA writing award winners, with judges comments
Earlier I reported on the award winners of the CCNA’s special competitions.
Now it’s time for the writing awards. Photo awards and general excellence will hopefully come soon. Again, I’m not going to mention those few awards that don’t include a B.C. or Yukon rep.
Best news story – Circ. 4,000 to 12,499
Judge Gail Martin wrote: “Initiative is what made the difference in this competition. While there were numerous entries that covered extremely newsworthy events, the reporters who took the time and effort to get the information no one else had were the ones who won in this category.”
GOLD – Danielle Bell, Nanaimo (BC) Nanaimo Daily News
Martin wrote: “Danielle Bell, with Nanaimo Daily News, submitted the most impressive entry. Under a tight deadline, Bell was able to get more information than her fellow reporters, following a shootout in downtown Nanaimo. This was in spite of the fact that the RCMP weren’t talking, and the area was cornered off. Bell was able to find out that the man who was killed had known his life was in danger, prior to a brazen shooting. This took several visits to the site, knocking on numerous doors and making use of emergency services contacts. The fact that the story was also written well makes this the top entry in this category.”
SILVER – Autumn MacDonald, Quesnel (BC) Quesnel Cariboo Observer
Martin wrote: Autumn MacDonald also took a crime story, and took it one step further, after a mentally challenged man was arrested for carrying what looked like a handgun. In reality, it was a toy gun. MacDonlad interviewed Rodney Moffat and his family, showing just how traumatized they were over the incident – and suggesting that officers used more than the required amount of force in the arrest. What made this story stand out was the compelling way MacDonald told the story, making readers feel compassion for Rodney and his family.”
BRONZE – Larissa Robyn Johnston, Whitehorse/Yukon Territory (YT) The Yukon News
Martin wrote: “Larissa Robyn Johnson also showed initiative, connecting the dots between a toddler’s choking death and the subsequent move of an ambulance station. The previous month, residents opposed having an ambulance station in their area due to concerns about the noise from the sirens. In her interview with the family, Johnson was able to show a community that was starting to have a change of heart – knowing that having an ambulance nearby could have prevented a needless death.”
Best Feature Story – Circ. up to 3,999
GOLD - Lachlan Labere, Sicamous (BC) Eagle Valley News
Judge Grace Peacock wrote: “Top prize went to Lachlan Labere for the raw and honest insight he gives us into a local family man who happens to be a convicted marijuana smuggler wanted by the United States for alleged involvement in a cross-border drug operation. The contradiction of Colin Martin’s principled personal values and the life of crime he’s lived is established right from the start, hooks the reader in and carries the current of narrative straight through to the end. Through clean, concise writing and the use of colourful quotes, Labere reveals the ordinary man behind the crime. His presentation of this man’s story is unassuming and makes him seem relatable – and therein lies the magic and the real kicker for achieving first place. Presentation was deserving (front page placement) for such a unique profile. Only one thing could have improved this piece and that would have been comments from other sources personally close to Martin to help round out our understanding of his character.”
SILVER – Martha Perkins, Bowen Island (BC) Bowen Island Undercurrent
Peacock wrote: “Second place goes to Martha Perkins who takes a story about the anniversary of a small, independent school on Bowen Island and pulls out of it colourful scene establishment (placing us on a wharf with a sleepy Grade 9 student waiting for a ferry to take to school) and a multitude of perspectives whose placement in the story help the reader understand exactly why this place is so much more than just a school. Quality of writing was top notch, story flowed effortlessly. I found myself a bit disappointed she didn’t continue the scene setting she had led with elsewhere in the story as it proved very effective.”
BRONZE – Tasleem Mawji, Fort St. James (BC) Fort St. James Caledonia Courier
Peacock wrote: “In third place, Tasleem Mawji focused on a woman’s initiative to open a drop-in centre for the aboriginal street people in Fort St. James. Not only was the story structured well and the writing clean, but Tasleem did a great job translating this woman’s passion for her cause onto the page. Tasleem shows the reader by reconstructing a scene for the lead – something journalists can’t get away with in hard news stories, but a device that works effectively here. Though a variety of sources were included here, missing was that of the street people themselves.”
Best Feature Story – Circ. 4,000 to 12,499
Judge Rob Vogt wrote: “The three stories that rose to the top did so because they flowed, were well written and laid out, offered a unique perspective and had a wide range of visual details.”
GOLD – Autumn MacDonald, Quesnel (BC) Quesnel Cariboo Observer
Vogt wrote: “The first place entry, tells the story of a funeral director which is a unique topic most readers can relate to. The writing had a good rhythm, enhanced by visual details and strong, but not excessive quotes.”
SILVER – Genesee Keevil, Whitehorse/Yukon Territory (YT) The Yukon News
Vogt wrote: “The second place entry draws the reader in right away with a vivid description of the life of a young person at risk. It is fast-paced and riveting reading. It also puts a human face on a government report that, if it had been adopted, would have prevented some of the trauma suffered by the subject of the story.”
BRONZE – Lisa Brown, Bridgewater (NS) Bridgewater Bulletin
Best Feature Story – Circ. more than 12,500
GOLD – Sheila Reynolds, Surrey/North Delta (BC) The Leader
Judge Carole Morris-Underhill wrote: “First place goes to Sheila Reynolds for her gripping feature for the Surrey-North Delta Leader. Reynolds detailed the graphic abuse her subject suffered at the hands of her husband skillfully and with precision. Her words kept the reader engaged — wondering from the beginning how it would end. She told the story that so often goes unreported. She shone a light on domestic abuse. Well done!”
SILVER – Ashley Wray, Abbotsford (BC) The Abbotsford News
Morris-Underhill wrote: “The second place entry came from Ashley Wray of The Abbotsford News. So often we wonder how good kids go bad, how their lives spiral out of control. We must not forget that every murder victim is someone’s child, someone’s friend. Wray’s article was heartbreaking to read, but offered great insight into the story behind the news. She went where many reporters are afraid to go — and what resulted was an award-winning entry.”
BRONZE – Lauren Gilchrist, Peterborough (ON) Peterborough This Week
Best Feature Series – Circ. up to 3,999
GOLD – Sean McIntyre, Salt Spring Island (BC) Gulf Islands Driftwood
Judge Paul Rudan wrote: “The Gulf Islands Driftwood and the Bowen Island Undercurrent provided their readers with comprehensive and well-researched stories on the problems and solutions to affordable housing. Best of all, every story in their respective series was character-driven – the key to great feature writing.”
SILVER – Martha Perkins, Bowen Island (BC) Bowen Island Undercurrent
Rudan wrote: “The Driftwood just edged out the Undercurrent. The deciding factor was the Driftwood provided a better package of stories, including sidebars packed with stats. Nevertheless, a great job by Driftwood reporter Sean McIntyre and Undercurrent editor Martha Perkins.”
BRONZE – Darrel Greer, Nunavut (NU) Kivalliq News
Best Feature Series – Circ. 4,000 to 12,499
GOLD – Belle Hatfield, Yarmouth (NS) Vanguard
SILVER – Krista Bryce, Nanaimo (BC) Nanaimo Daily News
Judge Steve Bonspiel wrote: “This was a very thorough, informative series on our health. It was good to read about the different aspects and stories that come with learning about our health. Bryce drove the story with what was probably the easiest entry to read of the bunch.”
BRONZE – Gordon Brock, New Liskeard (ON) Temiskaming Speaker
Best Feature Series – Circ. more than 12,500
GOLD – Tyler Olsen, Chilliwack (BC) Chilliwack Times
Judge Byron Christopher wrote: “A well-written piece that looked at the shocking abundance
of marijuana grow-ops in Chilliwack, British Columbia. Very innovative. Good use of a Google map to illustrate locations of more than 200 known grow-ops in the community. The series also included an eyeopening account of what actually happens to the owners of these grow-ops once they’re charged (mild consequences). There was also some tough slogging by the reporter who attempted to get a reaction from a repeat offender.
“The final three were very close, but the ‘Homegrown’ series won out because the story was so unique. If there’s a complete opposite to news-release journalism, this is it.”
SILVER – Lee Berthiaume, Ottawa (ON) Embassy
BRONZE – Jane Seyd, North Vancouver/West Vancouver (BC) North Shore News
Christopher wrote: “This was a heartfelt and educational story about the terrible consequences of impaired driving, and how common the practice is. This was a well researched piece. Jane examined the pain of survivors, the challenges of law enforcement and, with the experience of a court reporter, she also sought out defence lawyers to hear what they had to say. A balanced and well-crafted story with illustrations that were easy to follow. Jane had a compelling lead and her story progressed well. She also obtained some data through Freedom of Information.”
Outstanding columnist – Circ. open
GOLD – Marcus Hondro, Bowen Island (BC) Bowen Island Undercurrent
Judge Kimberley Noble wrote: “after ranking the best work and giving extra points for originality and voice, I awarded the top spot to Marcus Hondro of the Bowen Island Undercurrent, who managed to turn a column on local baseball into a piece about sports, family, politics, philosophy, metaphysics and, above all, Bowen Island.”
SILVER – Frank McTighe, Fort Macleod (AB) The Macleod Gazette
BRONZE – Meg Coles, St. Anthony (NL) Northern Pen
Outstanding reporter initiative – Circ. up to 9,999
GOLD – Sean McIntyre, Salt Spring Island (BC) Gulf Islands Driftwood
Judge Brenda Jefferies wrote: “First place winner Sean McIntyre of Gulf Islands Driftwood delivered the complete package in his series on affordable housing on Salt Springs Island, B.C. Weaving multiple interviews and a plethora of statistics into an engaging read that put a human face on an important issue. In addition, he used every tool at his disposal, including sidebars, graphs and photos to frame the problem, dig for the root cause and instigate change.”
SILVER – Kevin Weedmark, Moosomin (SK) World-Spectator
BRONZE – Genesee Keevil, Whitehorse/Yukon Territory (YT) The Yukon News
Jefferies wrote: “Third place winner Genesee Keevil of the Yukon News shows that persistence and courage pay off in her coverage of the tragic drowning of RCMP officer Michael Potvin. When she didn’t get straight answers about safety policy from officials, she did the leg work and turned in a compassionate, well-written series of stories that exposed the need for change. The RCMP responded by initiating a national review of the issue.”
Outstanding reporter initiative – Circ. more than 10,000
GOLD – Jeff Nagel, Surrey/North Delta (BC) The Leader
Judge Brodie Thomas wrote: “Jeff Nagel’s six part series “Trash Talk” from the Surrey-North Delta Leader on Metro Vancouver’s waste management plans hit the issue from all sides and provided readers with information above and beyond what was being debated in council chambers. He showed environmental pros and cons for both main options of either burning or landfilling, but he also delved into the business of trash. It was an engaging and informative read.”
SILVER – Paul J. Henderson, Chilliwack (BC) Chilliwack Times
Thomas wrote: “Paul J. Henderson of the Chilliwack Times interviewed over a dozen people for his profile of George Mitchell Allgood a.k.a. Reno Trevow Hogg. The subject’s life unfolded chronoligically for the most part and the story also raised questions about border security. As a personal profile, we come to see that the main character was charming but shifty – a different person to many people.”
BRONZE – Todd Vandonk, Peterborough (ON) Peterborough This Week
Best National Editorial – Circ. up to 9,999
GOLD – Richard Mostyn, Whitehorse/Yukon Territory (YT) The Yukon News
Judge Al Shackleton wrote: “Richard Mostyn of the Yukon News did an excellent job taking on Prime Minister Stephen Harper and his government’s use of veterans for a photo op. Mostyn quickly sets the scene and then gets to the point. He exposes the government’s hypocrisy in an easy to understand manner, making excellent use of research to drive home his points. This was an outstanding editorial.”
SILVER – David Burke, Squamish (BC) The Chief
Shackleton wrote: “David Burke of the Squamish Chief delivers a powerfully written editorial on Canada’s sorry international reputation on the environment. Burke takes a strong stand, uses facts and research well to back up his position, and doesn’t pull a single punch in his delivery. A great example of what an editorial should be.
BRONZE – Aaron Beswick, St. Anthony (NL) Northern Pen
Best National Editorial – Circ. more than 10,000
GOLD – Matthew Claxton, Langley (BC) Langley Advance
Judge Al Shackleton wrote: “This editorial was well written, short and concise. He presented the consequences of not being vaccinated for measles based on unproven science and he offered the solution. This is a subject that most readers can relate to and should have a considerable impact on the reader.”
SILVER – Frank Bucholtz, Langley (BC) The Langley Times
Shackleton wrote: “While this topic has been discussed and editorialized countless times, I like this one. He actually presented two issues in this editorial: the problems with minority governments and the problems with long gun registry. He showed various sides of the debate and presented solid information on how it hasn’t and can’t work. It was well written and easy for any reader to follow and perhaps even be convinced.”
BRONZE – Rose Sanchez, Swift Current (AB) Prairie Post
Best Local Editorial – Circ. up to 3,999
GOLD – Lisa Joy, Lacombe (AB) Globe
SILVER – Jacqueline Lawrence, Gravenhurst (ON) Gravenhurst Banner
BRONZE – Tracy Hughes, Salmon Arm (BC) Salmon Arm Observer
Judge Conal MacMillan wrote: “Tracy Hughes of the Salmon Arm Observer throws some cold water on what could become a heated, emotional issue in the wake of a senseless tragedy. Hughes aptly hits all the right notes in pointing out that regulations are in place to prevent similar tragedies and that, perhaps, good judgment needs to prevail. Her editorial serves to properly frame the discussion going forward.”
Best Local Editorial – Circ. 4,000 to 12,499
GOLD – Barbara Dean Simmons, Clarenville (NL) The Packet
SILVER – Susan Quinn, Port Alberni (BC) Alberni Valley News
Judge Al Shackleton wrote: “Susan Quinn’s editorial in the Port Alberni Valley News called for transparency at the local government level. The paper also lauded a councillor who sought to throw more light on the decision process to increase taxes in the community to make up a shortfall created with a default by local company. A short, sharp, shock, the editorial was a Ninja raid (Ed. note: !!!) on a group that prefers the dark. Quinn’s piece could easily be adapted to any level of government across the country.”
BRONZE – Dave Whitfield, Canmore/Kananaskis/Banff/Lake Louise (AB) Rocky Mountain Outlook
Best Local Editorial – Circ. more than 12,500
GOLD – Ted Colley, Surrey/North Delta/White Rock (BC) The Now
Judge Al Shackleton wrote: “It takes a lot of guts to write a front page editorial, but Ted Colley from Surrey Now has more than guts by using exceptional writing to clearly convey their disgust with the MP. Exceptional.”
Ed note: Colley’s editorial was on a free-spending MP and ran on the front page (alongside a news story about the issue), which is something that really does take exceptional guts. I don’t think I’ve ever seen a front page editorial.
SILVER – Paula Carlson, Surrey/North Delta (BC) The Leader
Shackleton wrote: “Brilliant writing makes Paula Carlson’s editorial a standout. Writing about sex shops and the impact on community isn’t easy, but this editorial hits all the right chords. Not a single word wasted.”
BRONZE – Mark Cripps, Dundas (ON) Dundas Star News
Best Historical Story – Circ. 4,000 to 12,499
GOLD – John Thompson, Whitehorse/Yukon Territory (YT) The Yukon News
Judge Tim Kalinowski wrote: “A superb re-telling of an exciting time in Yukon history. The story grabs your attention from the first headline “Goldrush convicts rise from the grave” and continues on magnificently from there. What more could you want in a great historical story? Great research, great narrative force, a compelling local historical context and a little skulduggery and murder thrown in just for good measure: A good tale, well told.”
SILVER – Emma Graney, St. Anthony (NL) Northern Pen
BRONZE – Gordon Brock, New Liskeard (ON) Temiskaming Speaker
Best Historical Story – Circ. more than 12,500
GOLD – Robert Mangelsdorf, Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows (BC) The News
Judge Lorraine Poulsen wrote: “The story written by Robert Mangelsdorf about the Whonnock Post Office was told in a calm, quiet manner allowing the reader to enjoy not only the history of the actual building but easily imagine the service rendered over the years. The story contains all the qualities needed to entice the reader to read every word. The writing is as unhurried as the atmosphere being described, making for a most enjoyable read. The writer didn’t over think this piece or in any way attempt to make the story anything it wasn’t. The accompanying pictures served to complete this excellently written, well told story. Very well done.“
SILVER – Richard Vivian, Orangeville (ON) Banner
BRONZE – Roszan Holmen, Victoria (BC) Victoria News
Poulsen wrote: “In third place is the story about lepers from Victoria News written by Roszan Holmen. The article is about looking for a more complete story; and while that message comes across clearly, it does not dominate the piece. The writer’s style of using short, well-formed paragraphs, each filled with amazing detail, leaves the reader wanting to know more – exactly what the story hopes to accomplish. Well done.”
“I could give honourable mention to many like the Guelph Tribune for the story about uncovering building art . The war bomber story from the North Shore News, the unique love story from the New Westminster Record and the story of a grave in Holland from the Guardian in York, Ont.”
Best Headline Writing – Circ. Open
GOLD – Kamloops (BC) Kamloops This Week
Judge Kelly Lapointe wrote: “Kamloops This Week did a great job of showing creative flair while using the elements of the story given without trying too hard and making too many leaps to tie everything together. Great, accurate wordplay that leaves an impact – just an overall impressive effort that stuck with me.”
Ed. Note: The headline was “Oh Danny boy! The pipes, the pipes were calling.” The story was about a dog named Danny that got trapped in a sewer pipe. ‘Nuff said.
SILVER – Wakefield/Gatineau Hills (QC) Low Down To Hull & Back News
BRONZE – Port Perry (ON) Scugog/Uxbridge Standard
Best Local Cartoon – Circ. up to 9999
GOLD – Norm Muffit, Inuvik (NT) Inuvik Drum
SILVER – Lawrence Woodall, Port Hardy (BC) North Island Gazette
Judge Blake Wolfe wrote: “They say nothing is certain but death and taxes, but I’d make the
argument for Christmas and stoop-and-scoop bylaws are a close second. Not as heavy subject matter as my first place pick, but the topic has impact both locally and across the country.”
BRONZE – Jonathan Mahood, Parry Sound (ON) North Star
Best Local Cartoon – Circ. more than 10,000
GOLD – Michael DeAdder, Ottawa (ON) Hill Times
SILVER – Ingrid Rice, Whistler (BC) Question
Judge Greg Bennett wrote: “Ingrid Rice let B.C. taxpayers know in a humorous way that they were going to have to pay for the party that was the 2010 Olympics. Again…a concept that was well executed that gave me something to think about and a smile at the same time.”
BRONZE – Walt Radda, Port Perry (ON) Scugog/Uxbridge Standard
CCNA nominees announced
Here’s the rundown on the nominees for this year’s Canadian Community Newspaper Awards. B.C. papers in bold. Forgive the shitty formatting.
****
General Excellence
Class 1011 – Circulation up to 1249
Best All Round Newspaper
Clearwater (BC) The North Thompson Times
Bowen Island (BC) Undercurrent
Blue Mountains (ON) Courier-Herald
Best Editorial Page
Clearwater (BC) The North Thompson Times
Placentia (NL) The Charter
Whitewood (SK) Herald
Best Front Page
Blue Mountains (ON) Courier-Herald
Bowen Island (BC) Bowen Island Undercurrent
Whitewood (SK) Herald
Blue Ribbon
Barriere (BC) North Thompson Star/Journal
Blue Mountains (ON) Courier-Herald
Bowen Island (BC) Bowen Island Undercurrent
Clearwater (BC) The North Thompson Times
Gull Lake (SK) Advance
Placentia (NL) The Charter
Whitewood (SK) Herald
Class 1012 – Circulation 1250 to 1999
Best All Round Newspaper
Fort Smith/Fort Chipewyan (NT) Slave River Journal
Gravenhurst (ON) Gravenhurst Banner
Enfield (NS) The Weekly Press
Best Editorial Page
Fort Macleod (AB) The Macleod Gazette
High Prairie (AB) South Peace News
Vulcan (AB) Vulcan Advocate
Best Front Page
Enfield (NS) The Weekly Press
Fort Smith/Fort Chipewyan (NT) Slave River Journal
Happy Valley-Goose Bay (NL) The Labradorian
Blue Ribbon
Enfield (NS) The Weekly Press
Fort Macleod (AB) The Macleod Gazette
Fort Smith/Fort Chipewyan (NT) Slave River Journal
Gravenhurst (ON) Gravenhurst Banner
Happy Valley-Goose Bay (NL) The Labradorian
Meaford (ON) Express
Vulcan (AB) Vulcan Advocate
Class 1013 – Circulation 2000 to 2999
Best All Round Newspaper
Taber (AB) Taber Times
Williams Lake (BC) The Williams Lake Tribune
Windsor (NS) Hants Journal
Best Editorial Page
Kincardine (ON) The Kincardine Independent
Lac La Biche (AB) Post
Williams Lake (BC) The Williams Lake Tribune
Best Front Page
Hanna (AB) Hanna Herald
Parry Sound (ON) Beacon Star
Taber (AB) Taber Times
Blue Ribbon
Hanna (AB) Hanna Herald
Hay River (NT) Hub
Kincardine (ON) The Kincardine Independent
Lac La Biche (AB) Post
Moosomin (SK) World-Spectator
Parry Sound (ON) Beacon Star
Port Aux Basques (NL) The Gulf News
Shelburne/Barrington (NS) Coast Guard
St. Stephen (NB) Courier Weekend
Stettler (AB) Stettler Independent
Taber (AB) Taber Times
Williams Lake (BC) The Williams Lake Tribune
Windsor (NS) Hants Journal
Class 1014 – Circulation 3000 to 3999
Best All Round Newspaper
Bracebridge (ON) Examiner
Jasper (AB) The Fitzhugh
Salt Spring Island (BC) Gulf Islands Driftwood
Best Editorial Page
Salt Spring Island (BC) Gulf Islands Driftwood
Squamish (BC) The Chief
Westlock (AB) News
Best Front Page
Bracebridge (ON) Examiner
Jasper (AB) The Fitzhugh
Woodstock (NB) Bugle Observer
Blue Ribbon
Bracebridge (ON) Examiner
Jasper (AB) The Fitzhugh
Kentville (NS) Kings County Advertiser
Parry Sound (ON) North Star
Powell River (BC) The Powell River Peak
Salmon Arm (BC) Salmon Arm Observer
Salt Spring Island (BC) Gulf Islands Driftwood
Squamish (BC) The Chief
Westlock (AB) News
Woodstock (NB) Bugle Observer
Class 1015 – Circulation 4000 to 6499
Best All Round Newspaper
Nunavut (NU) Nunavut News North
Sussex (NB) Kings County Record
Yarmouth (NS) Vanguard
Best Editorial Page
Rocky Mountain House (AB) Mountaineer
Sussex (NB) Kings County Record
Yarmouth (NS) Vanguard
Best Front Page
Banff (AB) Crag & Canyon
Nunavut (NU) Nunavut News North
Wainwright (AB) The Wainwright Star
Blue Ribbon
Antigonish (NS) The Casket
Banff (AB) Crag & Canyon
Canmore (AB) Leader
Carbonear (NL) The Compass
Clarenville (NL) The Packet
Huntsville (ON) Huntsville Forester
Nanaimo (BC) Nanaimo Daily News
New Liskeard (ON) Temiskaming Speaker
Nunavut (NU) Nunavut News North
Rimbey (AB) Review
Rocky Mountain House (AB) Mountaineer
Sussex (NB) Kings County Record
Wainwright (AB) The Wainwright Star
Yarmouth (NS) Vanguard
Class 1016 – Circulation 6500 to 12499
Best All Round Newspaper
Canmore/Kananaskis/Banff/Lake Louise (AB) Rocky Mountain Outlook
Sechelt/Gibsons (BC) Coast Reporter
Whistler (BC) Question
Best Editorial Page
Canmore/Kananaskis/Banff/Lake Louise (AB) Rocky Mountain Outlook
Sechelt/Gibsons (BC) Coast Reporter
Whistler (BC) Question
Best Front Page
Canmore/Kananaskis/Banff/Lake Louise (AB) Rocky Mountain Outlook
Sechelt/Gibsons (BC) Coast Reporter
Whistler (BC) Question
Blue Ribbon
Bridgewater (NS) Bridgewater Bulletin
Canmore/Kananaskis/Banff/Lake Louise (AB) Rocky Mountain Outlook
Mission (BC) Mission Record
Northwest Territories (NT) NWT News North
Oak Bay (BC) Oak Bay News
Sechelt/Gibsons (BC) Coast Reporter
Steinbach (MB) The Carillon
Stouffville (ON) Sun/Tribune
Strathmore (AB) Standard
Wetaskiwin (AB) Times Advertiser
Whistler (BC) Question
Class 1017 – Circulation 12500 to 24999
Best All Round Newspaper
Airdrie (AB) Airdrie Echo
Duncan (BC) Cowichan News Leader Pictorial
Okotoks (AB) Western Wheel
Best Editorial Page
Duncan (BC) Cowichan News Leader Pictorial
Dundas (ON) Dundas Star News
Parksville/Qualicum Beach (BC) The News
Best Front Page
Airdrie (AB) Airdrie Echo
Courtenay Comox Valley (BC) Comox Valley Record
Delta (BC) Delta Optimist
Blue Ribbon
Airdrie (AB) Airdrie Echo
Courtenay Comox Valley (BC) Comox Valley Record
Duncan (BC) Cowichan News Leader Pictorial
Dundas (ON) Dundas Star News
Kamloops (BC) The Daily News
Midland/ Penetanguishene (ON) Mirror
New Westminster (BC) The Record
Okotoks (AB) Western Wheel
Orangeville (ON) Banner
Parksville/Qualicum Beach (BC) The News
St. Albert (AB) Saint City News
Westshore (BC) Goldstream News
Class 1018 – Circulation 25000 and over
Best All Round Newspaper
North Vancouver/West Vancouver (BC) North Shore News
North and West Vancouver (BC) North Shore Outlook
St. Albert (AB) Gazette
Best Editorial Page
Surrey/North Delta/White Rock (BC) The Now
Vancouver (BC) The Vancouver Courier – West Side
Waterloo (ON) Waterloo Chronicle
Best Front Page
Burnaby (BC) News Leader
North and West Vancouver (BC) North Shore Outlook
Oakville (ON) Beaver
Blue Ribbon
Burnaby (BC) Burnaby Now
Burnaby (BC) News Leader
Chilliwack (BC) Chilliwack Times
Chilliwack (BC) The Chilliwack Progress
North and West Vancouver (BC) North Shore Outlook
North Vancouver/West Vancouver (BC) North Shore News
North York (ON) North York Mirror
Oakville (ON) Beaver
Saanich (BC) Saanich News
South Surrey (BC) Peace Arch News
St. Albert (AB) Gazette
Surrey/North Delta (BC) The Leader
Surrey/North Delta/White Rock (BC) The Now
Vancouver (BC) The Vancouver Courier – West Side
Vernon (BC) The Morning Star
Victoria (BC) Victoria News
Waterloo (ON) Waterloo Chronicle
Premier Awards
Best News StoryStephen Shaw Memorial Award
Class 2011 – Circulation up to 3999
Lawrence Powell, Annapolis County (NS) Annapolis County Spectator
Kevin Weedmark, Moosomin (SK) World-Spectator
George Blais, Westlock (AB) News
Class 2012 – Circulation 4000 to 12499
Danielle Bell, Nanaimo (BC) Nanaimo Daily News
Autumn MacDonald, Quesnel (BC) Quesnel Cariboo Observer
Larissa Robyn Johnston, Whitehorse/Yukon Territory (YT) The Yukon News
Class 2013 – Circulation 12500 and over
Travis Mealing, Midland/ Penetanguishene (ON) Mirror
Lee Berthiaume, Ottawa (ON) Embassy
Lauren Gilchrist, Peterborough (ON) Peterborough This Week
Best Feature Story
Class 2021 – Circulation up to 3999
Martha Perkins, Bowen Island (BC) Bowen Island Undercurrent
Tasleem Mawji, Fort St. James (BC) Fort St. James Caledonia Courier
Lachlan Labere, Sicamous (BC) Eagle Valley News
Class 2022 – Circulation 4000 to 12499
Lisa Brown, Bridgewater (NS) Bridgewater Bulletin
Autumn MacDonald, Quesnel (BC) Quesnel Cariboo Observer
Genesee Keevil, Whitehorse/Yukon Territory (YT) The Yukon News
Class 2023 – Circulation 12500 and over
Ashley Wray, Abbotsford (BC) The Abbotsford News
Lauren Gilchrist, Peterborough (ON) Peterborough This Week
Sheila Reynolds, Surrey/North Delta (BC) The Leader
Best Feature Series
Saskatchewan Weekly Newspapers Association Trophy
Class 2031 – Circulation up to 3999
Martha Perkins, Bowen Island (BC) Bowen Island Undercurrent
Darrel Greer, Nunavut (NU) Kivalliq News
Sean McIntyre, Salt Spring Island (BC) Gulf Islands Driftwood
Class 2032 – Circulation 4000 to 12499
Krista Bryce, Nanaimo (BC) Nanaimo Daily News
Gordon Brock, New Liskeard (ON) Temiskaming Speaker
Belle Hatfield, Yarmouth (NS) Vanguard
Class 2033 – Circulation 12500 and up
Tyler Olsen, Chilliwack (BC) Chilliwack Times
Jane Seyd, North Vancouver/West Vancouver (BC) North Shore News
Lee Berthiaume, Ottawa (ON) Embassy
Outstanding Columnist
George Cadogan Memorial Outstanding Columnist Award
Class 2041 – Circulation Open
Marcus Hondro, Bowen Island (BC) Bowen Island Undercurrent
Frank McTighe, Fort Macleod (AB) The Macleod Gazette
Meg Coles , St. Anthony (NL) Northern Pen
Outstanding Reporter Initiative
Class 2051 – Circulation up to 9999
Kevin Weedmark, Moosomin (SK) World-Spectator
Sean McIntyre, Salt Spring Island (BC) Gulf Islands Driftwood
Genesee Keevil, Whitehorse/Yukon Territory (YT) The Yukon News
Class 2052 – Circulation 10000 and over
Paul K. Henderson, Chilliwack (BC) Chilliwack Times
Todd Vandonk, Peterborough (ON) Peterborough This Week
Jeff Nagel, Surrey/North Delta (BC) The Leader
Best National Editorial
Charles Hawkins Memorial Trophy
Sponsored by the Manitoba Community Newspapers Association
Class 2061 – Circulation up to 9999
David Burke, Squamish (BC) The Chief
Aaron Beswick, St. Anthony (NL) Northern Pen
Richard Mostyn, Whitehorse/Yukon Territory (YT) The Yukon News
Class 2062 – Circulation 10000 and over
Matthew Claxton, Langley (BC) Langley Advance
Frank Bucholtz, Langley (BC) The Langley Times
Rose Sanchez, Swift Current (AB) Prairie Post
Best Local Editorial
Sponsored by Glacier Media Group
Class 2071 – Circulation up to 3999
Jacqueline Lawrence, Gravenhurst (ON) Gravenhurst Banner
Lisa Joy, Lacombe (AB) Globe
Tracy Hughes, Salmon Arm (BC) Salmon Arm Observer
Class 2072 – Circulation 4000 to 12499
Dave Whitfield, Canmore/Kananaskis/Banff/Lake Louise (AB) Rocky Mountain Outlook
Barbara Dean Simmons, Clarenville (NL) The Packet
Susan Quinn, Port Alberni (BC) Alberni Valley News
Class 2073 – Circulation 12500 and over
Mark Cripps, Dundas (ON) Dundas Star News
Paula Carlson, Surrey/North Delta (BC) The Leader
Ted Colley, Surrey/North Delta/White Rock (BC) The Now
Best Historical Story
Class 2081 – Circulation up to 3999
Shawn Bell, Fort Smith/Fort Chipewyan (NT) Slave River Journal
Andrea Gunn, Gander (NL) The Beacon
Cathy Weetman, Lamont (AB) The Lamont Leader
Class 2082 – Circulation 4000 to 12499
Gordon Brock, New Liskeard (ON) Temiskaming Speaker
Emma Graney, St. Anthony (NL) Northern Pen
John Thompson, Whitehorse/Yukon Territory (YT) The Yukon News
Class 2083 – Circulation 12500 and over
Robert Mangelsdorf, Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows (BC) The News
Richard Vivian, Orangeville (ON) Banner
Roszan Holmen, Victoria (BC) Victoria News
Best Headline Writing
Class 2091 – Circulation Open
Kamloops (BC) Kamloops This Week
Port Perry (ON) Scugog/Uxbridge Standard
Wakefield/Gatineau Hills (QC) Low Down To Hull & Back News
Best Local Cartoon
Class 2101 – Circulation up to 9999
Norm Muffit, Inuvik (NT) Inuvik Drum
Jonathan Mahood, Parry Sound (ON) North Star
Lawrence Woodall, Port Hardy (BC) North Island Gazette
Class 2102 – Circulation 10000 and over
Michael DeAdder, Ottawa (ON) Hill Times
Walt Radda, Port Perry (ON) Scugog/Uxbridge Standard
Ingrid Rice, Whistler (BC) Question
Best Spot News Photo Coverage
Class 2111 – Circulation up to 3999
Stephanie Lange, Moosomin (SK) World-Spectator
Cody Storm Cooper, Parry Sound (ON) Beacon Star
Sheila Mear-Hauck, Provost (AB) The Provost News
Class 2112 – Circulation 4000 to 12499
Josephine Johnson, Clarenville (NL) The Packet
Wawmeesh G. Hamilton, Port Alberni (BC) Alberni Valley News
Kevin Grumtza, Redwater (AB) Review
Class 2113 – Circulation 12500 and over
Andrew Leong, Duncan (BC) Cowichan News Leader Pictorial
Dave Eagles, Kamloops (BC) Kamloops This Week
David Mah, Prince George (BC) Prince George Citizen
Best Feature Photo
Class 2121 – Circulation up to 3999
Karen Longwell, Bracebridge (ON) Examiner
Pan Snow, Lewisporte (NL) The Pilot
Lachlan Labere, Sicamous (BC) Eagle Valley News
Class 2122 – Circulation 4000 to 12499
Krista Bryce, Nanaimo (BC) Nanaimo Daily News
Steve Dills, Sylvan Lake (AB) News
Ian Stewart, Whitehorse/Yukon Territory (YT) The Yukon News
Class 2123 – Circulation 12500 and over
Jon Borgstrom, Georgetown/Acton (ON) Independent/Free Press
Sean Connor, Kelowna (BC) Capital News
Don Denton, Victoria (BC) Victoria News
Best Sports Photo
Class 2131 – Circulation up to 3999
Karen Longwell, Bracebridge (ON) Examiner
Matt Molloy, Gander (NL) The Beacon
Jeffry Bento-Carrier, Woodstock (NB) Bugle Observer
Class 2132 – Circulation 4000 to 12499
Bromley Chamberlain, Rimbey (AB) Review
Celia Klemenz, Uxbridge (ON) Times-Journal
Rod Orcheski, Wainwright (AB) The Wainwright Star
Class 2133 – Circulation 12500 and over
Paul Rudan, Campbell River (BC) Campbell River Mirror
Paul VanPeenen, Coquitlam/Pt. Coquitlam/Pt. Moody (BC) The Now
Ron Pietroniro, Oshawa (ON) This Week
Best Photo Essay
Class 2141 – Circulation up to 3999
Alicia Newman, Powell River (BC) The Powell River Peak
Janice Huser, St. Paul (AB) St. Paul Journal
Patricia Harcourt, Tofield (AB) Mercury
Class 2142 – Circulation 4000 to 12499
Kelly Clemmer, Wainwright (AB) Edge
Kelly Clemmer, Wainwright (AB) The Wainwright Star
Mike Thomas, Whitehorse/Yukon Territory (YT) The Yukon News
Class 2143 – Circulation 12500 and over
R Peitronico, R Pfeiffer, S Byrnes, J Liebregts, Oshawa (ON) This Week
Staff entry, Westshore (BC) Goldstream News
Sabrina Byrnes, Whitby (ON) This Week
Best Photo Illustration
George Holmes Memorial Trophy
Sponsored by the Holmes Family, Alberta
Class 2151 – Circulation Open
Gladzy Kei Zuniga, Jasper (AB) The Fitzhugh
Troy Landreville, Langley (BC) Langley Advance
Colleen Green, Port Perry (ON) Scugog/Uxbridge Standard
Outstanding Community Service
Class 2211 – Circulation up to 9999
Aylmer (ON) Aylmer Express
Port Hardy (BC) North Island Gazette
Whitehorse/Yukon Territory (YT) The Yukon News
Class 2212 – Circulation 10000 and over
Clarington (ON) This Week
Duncan (BC) Cowichan News Leader Pictorial
Whitby (ON) This Week
Best Holiday Edition
Black Press Trophy
Sponsored by Black Press
Class 2221 – Circulation up to 3999
Humboldt (SK) Journal
Powell River (BC) The Powell River Peak
Rosthern (SK) The Saskatchewan Valley News
Class 2222 – Circulation 4000 to 12499
Dauphin (MB) Dauphin Herald
St. Anthony (NL) Northern Pen
Steinbach (MB) The Carillon
Class 2223 – Circulation 12500 and over
Kamloops (BC) Kamloops This Week
Langley (BC) The Langley Times
South Delta (BC) South Delta Leader
Best Coverage of the Arts
Class 2231 – Circulation up to 9999
Clarenville (NL) The Packet
St. Anthony (NL) Northern Pen
Whitehorse/Yukon Territory (YT) The Yukon News
Class 2232 – Circulation 10000 and over
North and West Vancouver (BC) North Shore Outlook
Sidney (BC) Peninsula News Review
Swift Current (AB) Prairie Post
Best Sports Coverage
Class 2241 – Circulation up to 3999
Gander (NL) The Beacon
Hanna (AB) Hanna Herald
Swan Valley (MB) Star & Times
Class 2242 – Circulation 4000 to 12499
RESULTS COMING SOON
Class 2243 – Circulation 12500 and over
Brampton (ON) Brampton Guardian
St. Albert (AB) Gazette
St. Albert (AB) Saint City News
Best Web Site
Class 2261 – Circulation up to 3999
Parry Sound (ON) North Star
Powell River (BC) The Powell River Peak
Squamish (BC) The Chief
Class 2262 – Circulation 4000 to 12499
Bridgewater (NS) Bridgewater Bulletin
Kentville (NS) Kings County Register
Whitehorse/Yukon Territory (YT) The Yukon News
Class 2263 – Circulation 12500 and over
Mississauga (ON) Mississauga News
Oshawa (ON) This Week
Scarborough (ON) Scarborough Mirror
Best Multimedia Feature
Class 2271 – Circulation up to 9999
Bridgewater (NS) Bridgewater Bulletin
Vankleek Hill/Hawkesbury (ON) The Review
Whitehorse/Yukon Territory (YT) The Yukon News
Class 2272 – Circulation 10000 and over
Calgary (AB) Fast Forward Weekly
Kamloops (BC) The Daily News
New Westminster (BC) The Record
Best Canadian Forces Base Newspaper
Class 2311 – Circulation Open
CFB Esquimalt (BC) Lookout Newspaper
CFB Halifax – Maritime Forces Atlantic (NS) Trident Newspaper
CFB Shilo (MB) Shilo Stag
Special Competitions
Best Environmental Writing
Sponsored by Canada Post
Class 3011 – Circulation up to 9999
Martha Perkins, Bowen Island (BC) Bowen Island Undercurrent
Genesee Keevil, Whitehorse/Yukon Territory (YT) The Yukon News
Michael Gorman And Tina Comeau, Yarmouth (NS) Vanguard
Class 3012 – Circulation 10000 and over
Joni Miltenburg, Elmira-Woolwich (ON) Observer
Kristine Salzmann, South Delta (BC) South Delta Leader
Jerold LaBlanc, Wetaskiwin (AB) Times Advertiser
Excellence in Rural Reporting
Sponsored by Canada Post
Class 3021 – Circulation Open
Angele Cano, Enfield (NS) The Weekly Press
Monique McKay and Kevin Woodmark, Moosomin (SK) World-Spectator
John Thompson, Whitehorse/Yukon Territory (YT) The Yukon News
Best Business Writing Award
Sponsored by Canada Post
Class 3031 – Circulation up to 9999
Journal newsroom, Humboldt (SK) Journal
Martha Wickett, Salmon Arm (BC) Salmon Arm Observer
Guy Quenneville, Yellowknife (NT) Yellowknifer
Class 3032 – Circulation 10000 and over
Mario Bartel, New Westminster (BC) News Leader
Cory Hare, St. Albert (AB) Gazette
Sandra Thomas, Vancouver (BC) The Vancouver Courier – West Side
Best Agricultural Edition
Class 3041 – Circulation up to 9999
Aylmer (ON) Aylmer Express
Moosomin (SK) World-Spectator
New Liskeard (ON) Temiskaming Speaker
Class 3042 – Circulation 10000 and over
Duncan (BC) Cowichan Valley Citizen
Lloydminster (SK) Lloydminster Source
Swift Current (AB) Prairie Post
Best Agricultural Story
Class 3051 – Circulation Open
Pat Peckover, Humboldt (SK) Journal
Judie Steeves, Kelowna (BC) Capital News
Doug Coxson, New Hamburg (ON) Independent
Outstanding Campus Newspaper
Class 4011 – Circulation Open
Algonquin College (ON) Algonquin News
University of Toronto (ON) The Varsity
Wilfrid Laurier University (ON) The Cord Weekly
Best Campus News Story
Class 4021 – Circulation Open
Alexandria Eldridge, University of Alberta (AB) The Gateway
Dylan L. Robertson, University of Toronto (ON) The Varsity
Kayla Cabral, Welland (ON) Niagara News
Best Campus Feature Story
Class 4031 – Circulation Open
Emily Kreiberg, Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (AB) The Weal
Ali Churchill and Dustin Blumhagen, University of Alberta (AB) The Gateway
Sylvie Berry, Welland (ON) Niagara News
Best Campus Photography
Class 4041 – Circulation Open
James MacKenzie, Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (AB) The Weal
Andrew Rusk, University of Toronto (ON) The Varsity
Nick Lachance, Wilfrid Laurier University (ON) The Cord Weekly
Best of the best?
Whistler Question staff celebrate their 2009 General Excellence Ma Murray.
We’re in awards season so I thought it would be interesting to tally up some results from the past nine years of the BCYCNA and CCNA awards. Sure, you can take any given year’s awards lightly, but it’s possible to draw some fairly strong conclusions when you see a newspaper constantly winning hardware — or never touching the stuff.
The verdict? Those Whistler Question staffers on the right work for the best small community newspaper in the province, if not country.
First, some notes: because BCYCNA categories change from year-to-year, and because newspapers’ circulations can fluctuate, not all of these newspapers have garnered all of their awards in the class in which they are found below. This is especially true for CCNA awards, since those categories do not exactly mirrior those of the BCYCNA. For the BCYCNA awards, I gave five points for a first place showing, three for second place and one for third place. (On the premise that there is less of a difference between first and third than there is between third place and your average no-award paper, I tried a 4-3-2 system but the results were almost identical.) As for the CCNA awards, I handed out points on a 6-4-2 basis, on the assumption that it’s more prestigious to win a national award than a provincial one.
I’ve listed the top performers in each category. To make my list, papers must have collected at least 10 points in either category.
Today, I’ll focus on the small(er) papers. Later this week, I’ll tacker the bigger boys and girls.
Without further ado, Category A:
| Newspaper | BCYCNA awards | BCYCNA points | CCNA points | Total points |
| Houston Today | 6 | 16 | 14 | 30 |
| Merritt Herald | 5 | 13 | 10 | 23 |
| North Thompson Times | 4 | 14 | 4 | 18 |
| Eagle Valley News | 1 | 3 | 14 | 17 |
| Revelstoke Times Review | 3 | 11 | 11 | |
| Lake Cowichan Gazette | 4 | 10 | 10 |
| Column1 | Column2 | Column3 | Column4 | Column5 |
| Cat A | ||||
| Houston Today | 6 | 16 | 14 | 30 |
| North Thompson Times | 4 | 14 | 4 | 18 |
| Merritt Herald | 5 | 13 | 10 | 23 |
| Revelstoke Times Review | 3 | 11 | 11 | |
| Lake Cowichan Gazette | 4 | 10 | 10 | |
| Eagle Valley News | 1 | 3 | 14 | 17 |
The most interesting thing to note here is obviously the national love shown for the Eagle Valley News. One thing it may have going for it is the fact that it competes against all those papers with circulations below 1,400 for the CCNAAs, but that the BCYs’ smallest class is for papers with under-2,000 circs. That disparity may be to blame for some of the other disparities between B.C./national awards.
Category B:
| Newspaper | BCYCNA awards | BCYCNA points | CCNA points | Total points |
| Salmon Arm Observer | 7 | 23 | 18 | 41 |
| Ladysmith-Chemainus Chronicle | 6 | 20 | 6 | 26 |
| Valley Echo | 5 | 11 | 12 | 23 |
| Interior News | 2 | 8 | 10 | 18 |
| North Island Gazette | 5 | 11 | 6 | 17 |
Before it was bumped to Category C, the Salmon Arm Observer, as a paid broadsheet with a decent-sized staff, was a big fish in a small pond. It won its seven BCY awards in consecutive years, between 2002 and 2008. The Chronicle and Gazette both put together winning streaks at the start, and end, of the decade.
Category C:
| Newspaper | BCYCNA awards | BCYCNA points | CCNA points | Total points |
| Whistler Question | 7 | 33 | 44 | 77 |
| Squamish Chief | 4 | 10 | 28 | 38 |
| Gulf Island Driftwood | 5 | 15 | 20 | 35 |
| Williams Lake Tribune | 5 | 11 | 4 | 15 |
The Whistler Question and the Squamish Chief, two Glacier papers, absolutely dominated this category. Only in 2007 did the Question fail to garner a General Excellence Ma Murray. The Chief, meanwhile, started the decade in Cat B, but continued to win awards even when it moved to a bigger category.
Later this week: the best of the bigs.
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We’re making inroads into our census of B.C. community newspapers, but there are still a lot of blanks in the Journo-lust Spreadsheet. How many journalists work at your paper? How often do you come out? Who’s your publisher? Participation is free! The benefits unlimited! The exclamation points boundless!
The Lady Byng for journalists
The Lady Byng Trophy
Why does Black Press sponsor the single lamest Canadian Community Newspaper Award? I’m talking, of course, about the CCNA for “Best Holiday Edition,” which is the Lady Byng of all community newspaper awards.
It’s one of those throwaway awards that you enter half-heartedly knowing that even if you win, you’re only going to be bragging about the award in an ironic manner. You know, how it goes: you’re sitting around beers talking about past triumphs and you pop up: “WELLLLL, back in 2010 I won…” insert pause for dramatic effect…. “The Black Press Trophy for BEST HOLIDAY EDITION!!!” You raise your eyebrows for added emphasis, then everybody laughs.
For advertising folk, the award is probably helpful when it comes to selling next year’s special edition. But for the editorial guys, it’s a joke. And for those Black Press journalists, it’s even worse.
“Look at the award our company sponsors! Best Holiday Edition! Now THAT’S presitigious.”
None of this, of course, is to take away from the past winners of the award. I’m sure their holiday editions were very good and took some hard work. But of all the awards that include editorial, the Best Holiday Edition one really is the ugly duckling of the bunch, an ugly duckling brought to you by our largest newspaper chain. Thanks a lot.
By the way, the deadline for the BCYNA Ma Murray’s is this Friday. Next Friday is the CCNA deadline.
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Help keep this blog running for weeks to come by becoming a link farmer. It’s easy, quick and the pay is shite. E-mail bclocalreporter (at) gmail (dot) com. Also, take the poll on the right. It’s free. Lucky you.
Have I made an error? It wouldn’t be the first time. Leave a comment and I’ll duly update the post.
We’re making inroads into our census of B.C. community newspapers, but there are still a lot of blanks in the Journo-lust Spreadsheet. How many journalists work at your paper? How often do you come out? Who’s your publisher? Participation is free! The benefits unlimited! The exclamation points boundless!
