JOURNALISTS OF THE YEAR
PRINT (Over 100,000 circulation)
REPORTER, COLUMNIST OR EDITOR
First Place: Barbara Demick, LA Times, Glimpses of a Hermit Nation
Judges’ comments:
Exhaustively researched, very well written journey into a world that is very difficult to cover. Demick tells an important story with vivid details, giving readers a rare look at a closed society. Her exemplary work ferreting out the people and the facts under such strict political and government regulations was stellar work and the stories were enlightening.
Second Place: Sebastian Rotella, LA Times, Europe’s Boys of Jihad
Honorable Mention: Alan Mittelstaedt – editor, LA Weekly, What You Can’t See Can Kill You
PRINT (Under 100,000 circulation)
REPORTER, COLUMNIST OR EDITOR
First Place: Ana Rubin, Los Angeles Daily Journal, Exploration of Legal Aid Organizations
Judges’ comments:
In a series of stories, Anat Rubin explored the challenges faced by legal aid organizations and their effectiveness in providing services to poor clients. Her diligence in finding the stories and sourcing them was evident. Her coverage provided readers with insight into the deficiencies of the Los Angeles legal aid system. Rubin provided a sobering assessment of the lack of resources that prevent low-income people from receiving justice against rogue landlords. She also pursued a novel story outlining how legal aid organizations were trying to perform political jujitsu and use a Bush administration rule for faith-based organizations to procure more funds. In a city where daily living comes with high costs and many challenges, Rubin lifts up the plight of our low-income neighbors and raises reader awareness of injustices occurring in the community.
Second Place: Jason Armstrong, Los Angeles Daily Journal
Honorable Mention: Leslie Simmons, Los Angeles Daily Journal
TELEVISION JOURNALIST
First Place: David Goldstein, KCAL9
Judges’ comments:
Solid investigative pieces. What impressed us the most was the amount of time David was willing to stick with a story, specifically the MTA bus driver piece. These stories also helped the public understand issues many may not even know about. As journalists, that’s our job well done.
Second Place: Ana Garcia, NBC
RADIO JOURNALIST
First Place: Frank Stoltze, KPCC
Judges’ comments:
This journalist should stand as an example of how radio news can be an integral part of a community, especially a multi-cultural area where different populations strive to learn more about others. This diversity is a clear element in his stories, bringing the factual news to a human level to tell thorough and informative stories. Mr. Stoltze displays strong interview abilities, clear writing and authoritative, yet conversational delivery. It is just fine journalism.
Second Place: Tavis Smiley, KPCC (PRI)
Honorable Mention: Warren Olney, KCRW (PRI)
SPORTS JOURNALIST
PRINT, BROADCAST OR ONLINE
First Place: T. J. Simers, Los Angeles Times
Judges’ comments:
We liked the unpredictability of T.J. Simers’ columns. They weren’t just a columnist’s rant. He offered an insider’s view (though at times it could be a bit confusing to someone unfamiliar with the L.A. sports scene). Still, Simers shared wonderful details with the reader that only someone on the scene would know: such as the taped line that the media had to stand behind at the Shaq press conference. Great detail. His column describing his love-hate relationship with Jeff Kent was also a winner. Too often, it’s one or the other from a columnist.
Second Place: Bill Plaschke, Los Angeles Times
ENTERTAINMENT JOURNALIST
PRINT, BROADCAST OR ONLINE
First Place: Patrick Goldstein, Los Angeles Times
Judges’ comments:
One judge described this entry as a cross between Mickey Spillane and the Wall Street Journal. Proof that great reporting doesn’t have to be dull to read. Another said: He has a real storytelling flair and the reporting elevates the coverage well above your normal entertainment fare.
Second Place: Mary McNamara, Los Angeles Times
Honorable Mention: Claude Brodesser, KCRW-FM
PHOTO JOURNALIST
First Place: Francine Orr, Los Angeles Times
Second Place: Damon Winter, Los Angeles Times
DESIGNER
PRINT OR ONLINE
First Place: Christine Palma, KXLU Los Angeles
Judges’ comments:
Christine’s design solutions come as the logical conclusion of a process that is realistic and makes sense of design and technology decisions.
HEALTH JOURNALIST
First Place: Alan Zarembo, Los Angeles Times
Judges’ comments:
This was a surprise. The entry begins with a story about problems, and ultimately a shutdown, of a liver transplant clinic run by a university medical center. It is well researched and a written. But in subsequent entries, he proves to be able to grasp medical issues, current theory, ripoffs and personal stories. In the end, a reader has a better grasp of what was really going on and what to look out for. He chased down one charlatan as he moved from location to the location. He found another one simultaneously confounding a roomful of experts and attracting another desperate possible victim. While he may not be functioning in the traditional role of a “medical reporter” – regularly reporting on medical issues and developments (and several of the entrants are doing that very well) – his work stands out.
Second Place: Shari Roan, Los Angeles Times
Honorable Mention: Dr. Bruce Hensel, KNBC-TV
DAILY/WEEKLY NEWSPAPERS
(Over 100,000 circulation)
HARD NEWS
SINGLE DAY COVERAGE OF BREAKING NEWS ON A DEADLINE BY ONE PERSON OR A TEAM
First Place: Staff, Los Angeles Times, “Katrina”
Second Place: Staff, Los Angeles Times, “London Bombings”
Honorable Mention: Staff, Los Angeles Times, “Tragedy on the Rails”
NEWS FEATURE
First Place: Richard Marosi, Los Angeles Times, Death and Deliverance
Judges’ comments:
Simple storytelling at its best. We can relive the story in our minds. Every sentence was packed with meaning. Story was cohesive.
Second Place: David Zucchino, Los Angeles Times, The Unvanquished: A Cop’s Story
Honorable Mention: Michael Krikorian, L.A. Weekly, War and Peace
INVESTIGATIVE/SERIES
First Place: Marcus Stern of Copley News Service, Union Tribune Staff and Copley News Service Staff
Copley News Service and San Diego Union Tribune, “Rep. Randy ‘Duke’ Cunningham’s $2.4 million in Bribes.”
Judges’ comments:
A top-drawer, relentless investigation that ends in a knockout. For investigative reporters it doesn’t get any better than this. America, both blue states and red, owes a debt of gratitude to Marcus Stern, Copley News Service and the Union-Tribune for exposing a crooked congressman who put his seat in the House up for sale and for sparking the FBI investigation that brought him to justice.
Second Place: Scott Glover and Matt Lait, Los Angeles Times, “A Case of Doubt.”
Honorable Mention: Robin Fields, Evelyn Larrubia and Jack Leonard, Los Angeles Times, “Guardians for Profit.”
BUSINESS
First Place: Robin Fields, Evelyn Larrubia and Jack Leonard, “Guardians for Profit”, LA Times
Judges’ comments:
This series was nothing short of astonishing. It is a classic piece of investigative journalism, so outrageous readers rise up to demand action – which, in this case, they got with swift changes in laws advocates had tried, unsuccessfully, to change for years. It must have taken a lot of very, very hard work to develop the multitude of sources it took to tell this story – advocates for the elderly, attorneys, conservators themselves and, most importantly, victims. The heartbreaking details of their stories made these stories flow, easily pulling readers to the end of each fairly long installment. This was a clear first place winner. Great work.
Second Place: Peter Gosselin, “The New Deal”, LA Times
Honorable Mention: Dean Calbreath, “The dragon awakes: Boom felt across the globe”, San Diego Union Tribune
SIGNED COMMENTARY
First Place: Robert David Jaffe, “Shedding Stigma of the ‘Psycho’ Straight-Jacket”, Los Angeles Times
Judges’ comments:
Jaffe’s unabashed portrayal of his bout with psychosis provides insight into and inspires compassion about mental illness that destroys lives – not just because of their impact by the disease, but also due to the stigma linked with those suffering from hallucinations and illusions. Jaffe’s superb writing and candid descriptions help to dispel the stereotypes that can – and do – prevent healing. I’m looking forward to reading his memoir.
Second Place: Mariel Garza, “Blake trial feeling more like B-movie”, Los Angeles Daily News
Honorable Mention: Bennett Ramberg, “Stay the Course?”, Orange County Register
COLUMNIST
ONE PERSON’S VIEWPOINT ON ANY SUBJECT.
First Place: Steve Lopez, Los Angeles Downbeat, Los Angeles Times
Judges’ comments:
Sometimes a story can be right under your nose, but you don’t see it. Steve Lopez did. By befriending a homeless man who was playing his two-string violin near the Los Angeles Times building, and writing about it, Lopez takes his readers on a fascinating and poignant journey into the life of a Julliard-trained musician whose struggle with mental illness led him to live out of a shopping cart on the streets of Los Angeles. By telling the remarkable story of just one man, perhaps Lopez’s readers now wonder what story lies behind the face of each homeless person they pass.
Second Place: Tim Rutten, Regarding Media, Los Angeles Times
Honorable Mention: Michael Hiltzik, Golden State, Los Angeles Times
EDITORIALS
First Place: Mary Engel, Dan Turner, “Malaria: The Sting of Death”, Los Angeles Times
Judges’ comments:
Seldom does an editorial series come … that is as comprehensive, well-written and … as Engel’s and Turner’s series on malaria. …series is all-inclusive, beginning with a concise description of the background material … facts about the disease and prevention measures that have succeeded and on-site interviews. In Africa provide insight of the toll of malaria, especially on children, and make this a compelling read. The editorials also convey the cultural and economic aspects related to malaria, adding to the …
Second Place: (tie) Robert A. Kibble, “San Diego Time Bomb”, San Diego Union-tribune
Second Place: (tie) Karen Klein, “Learning from New York”, Los Angeles Times
Honorable Mention: Staff, “Invalid Confession”, Los Angeles Daily News
ENTERTAINMENT REVIEWS/CRITICISM/COLUMN
First Place: Christopher Hawthorne, Christopher Hawthorne on Architecture, Los Angeles Times.
Judges’ comments:
Mr. Hawthorne beautifully melds reporting with criticism, focusing on context as much as on individual buildings. This is intelligent critique conveyed in clean, populist language.
Second Place: Jonathan Gold, Counter Intelligence, LA Weekly
Honorable Mention:
Ella Taylor, LA Weekly
ENTERTAINMENT HARD NEWS
First Place: Claudia Eller, Sallie Hofmeister, Viacom In Talks, Los Angeles Times
Judges’ comments:
A good topic, well-written. We like the edginess, with a little “dish.” And we give it extra points for scooping.
Second Place: Lorenza Munoz, Sallie Hofmeister, Adelphia and Porn, Los Angeles Times
Honorable Mention: Richard Verrier, Claudia Eller, James Bates, Sallie Hofmeister, Meg James, Chris Gaither, New CEO at Disney, Los Angeles Times
ENTERTAINMENT FEATURE
First Place: Mark Swed, “Explosively Original”, Los Angeles Times
Judges’ comments:
Swed uses a field trip to Los Alamos, New Mexico, with the director of the new John Adams opera, “Doctor Atomic,” to illuminate both the opera and drama that it portrays: the Manhattan Project and its many larger-than-life figures, such as scientists Robert Oppenheimer and Edward Teller, and General Leslie Groves, among others.
Second Place: Brendan Bernhard, “L’Etranger in a Strange Land: Michel Houellebecq’s Weekend in L.A.”, L.A. Weekly
Honorable Mention: Robert David Jaffee, “The Vanishing”, L.A. Weekly
SPORTS
ANY NEWS OR FEATURE ON SPORTS. ONE STORY OR A SERIES.
First Place: Drex Heikes, “The Citadel: Tale of an Underdog”, Los Angeles Times
Judges’ comments:
This tale of an underdog military academy football team that signed up as a paid sacrificial lamb against Florida State’s powerful Seminoles is fabulously well reported, and the writing simply sings. It brims with human detail and constant narrative tension, and could easily reel in readers who don’t give a damn about football. The game with the Seminoles, a mismatch to the point of cruelty, is the primary tension-driver, but with his dogged reporting and keen observation, Heikes also makes us care for the individual Citadel players and coaches and what will become of them. The winning entry is anchored by a solid back-story about the economics that compel such egregious mismatches, which make both teams money, and give the little gut a shot at recognition, but at what cost? Sports Illustrated would have been lucky to get this.
Second Place: David Wharton, “You Think Your Job is Tough?”, Los Angeles Times
Judges’ comments:
The author daily takes us into the unseen world of journeymen boxers in this gripping, well-written piece.
Honorable Mention: Steve Henson, Tim Brown, “DePodesta on the Way Out”, Los Angeles Times
SPECIAL SECTION
First Place: L.A. Weekly Staff, What You Can’t See Can Kill You, L.A. Weekly
Judges’ comments:
This section is extremely informative and, at times, downright scary. The L.A. Weekly staff provides a tremendously comprehensive look at the problem of air pollution, tracing the problem from its roots in the legislative and business communities right down to those most affected by the smog. The writing has an edge and is supplemented by plenty of artwork and graphics. Some of the graphics are a little confusing, but as a whole, this section was the clear winner.
Second Place: L.A. Times Staff, The Path Ahead, L.A. Times
Honorable Mention: L.A. Weekly Staff, Best of L.A. 2005, L.A. Weekly
HEADLINE
First Place: Steve Eames of the LA Times, title” Star Trek Bit Players Cling On.”
Judges’ comments:
The headline wordplay (Cling On for Klingon) is handled subtly. Readers who don’t know what a Klingon is will get the point of the story. (In too many headlines that use wordplay, the wordplay doesn’t work both ways). Eames used a clever means of drawing the reader into the story.
Second Place: Amy Alkon’s syndicated column. title “Oaf Wiedersehen.”
DESIGN
General comment: Despite clear rules that an entry must be “a page or pages on a related subject from a single day,” there is always someone who will not follow the rules. Unfortunately, that someone also did a great job. So, by throwing out three pages of a 9-page entry, and leaving six pages that form a special section, the result is a 1st Place winner!
First Place: Brian Harr, Pope John Paul Memorial Section, Los Angeles Daily News
Judges’ comments:
It would be an understatement to say this was a tough category to judge. Most of the entries were very, very good. Separating “very good” from “outstanding” was not easy. Using a criterion that any layout must draw a reader into the story, we decided to award top honor to a traditional newspaper layout that combined emotion with simple, effective design. We looked at the entire section and how the story, graphics and photos flowed. Interestingly, another paper also entered the same subject, and it was immediately obvious how photo selection and placement affected the emotional impact of Pope John Paul’s death. By far, the LA Daily News showed greater care in how this portrayal played out in its pages. The first photo, played full page, showed a close-up of a frail Pope John Paul. But, it was how the section ended with a full page photo titled “Farewell” that clinched the effect. That photo showed the Pontiff from a distance, seated alone with his face in his hands. Very touching. Inside, photos and text reviewed the life of the Pope; a time line and sidebars adding insight into his papacy. Again, the choice of photos and placement on the pages draw readers’ eyes to the story. This is what good newspaper layout should do. It works!
Second Place: Tom Gapen, Iraq War Dead, Los Angeles Daily News
Judges’ comments:
This is an incredibly powerful front page, printed on the day US military deaths in Iraq reached 2,000. The simplicity of the design with the names of American dead over a gray tone “2,000,” coupled with a single dog tag “lying” at the lower left, says a mouthful. This is truly outstanding page design!
Honorable Mention: Christina Martinez and Scott LaFee, “Howabunga”, San Diego Union-Tribune;
Judges’ comments:
The San Diego Union-Tribune utilizes a neat layout trick of “wrapping” (double-trucking) graphics from front to back pages of sections. We selected this particular story on how science plays into the sport of surfing because of the catchy graphics that really explain every dimension of catching that special wave. Specifically, each element was clear and straight-forward, yet graphically linked across the page. A lot of effort went into showing the science of waves and surfing, and we feel the designers/artists were successful in letting the graphics tell the story in an understandable manner. Throw in the catchy title, “HOWabunga,” and we get the picture of HOW this all works. Good job!
C. DAILY/WEEKLY NEWSPAPERS
(Under 100,000 circulation)
HARD NEWS
First Place: Doug Irving, Josh Grossberg, David Zahniser, NY-bound jet’s pilot avoids disaster, Daily Breeze
Judges’ comments:
Solid news piece done on tight deadline. The evidence is in the reporting that the team worked hard to get all the facts and include a wide range of voices. Especially like the detail color: the passenger’s cell phone text messages and those in the air who watched their own drama unfold on their seat monitors.
Second Place: Claude Walbert, Murphy Will Quit as Mayor of San Diego, Los Angles Daily Journal
Honorable Mention: Marianne Love and Shirley Hsu, All bark and no bite, San Gabriel Valley Tribune
NEWS FEATURE
First Place: Teresa Strasser, “The Evil Stepmother Dies”, The Jewish Journal of Greater Los Angeles
Judges’ comments:
An almost lyrical narrative of a ghastly family tragedy. From the brutally honest lead to the thoughtful last line, we couldn’t put the story down.
Second Place: Mellissa Heckscher, Apple Powerbook Guy, The Daily Breeze
Honorable Mention: Howard Blume, Two Families’ Dreams Were Not Demolished, The Jewish Journal of Greater Los Angeles
INVESTIGATIVE/SERIES
First Place: Jenny Marder., “The Meth Menace,” Long Beach Press-Telegram.
Judges’ comments:
Ms. Marder brings to light the dark world of crystal methamphetamine and its possible links to AIDS. The power of the series emanates from the great interviews Ms. Marder elicited from the sad addicts whose lives were ruined by drugs.
Second Place: Chip Jacobs, “Money Train”, LA City Beat.
Honorable Mention: Marshall Allen, “Turmoil at the Local Red Cross”, Pasadena Star News.
BUSINESS
An article or series on business, finance, investments or the economy.
First Place: Laurence Darmiento, “Philanthropist’s Path”, L.A. Business Journal
Judges’ comments:
Unflinching look at L.A.’s self-described “venture philanthropist” Eli Broad. Fascinating profile was well researched and featured multiple sources. The reporter didn’t back down when describing Broad’s style and missteps. Overall an encouraging portrait.
Second Place: Jason Gewirtz, “QM Relationships Tangled”, Long Beach Press-Telegram
Honorable Mention: Kato Berry, Hilary, Potkewitz, Howard Fine, James Nash, Laurence Darmiento, “CEOs Under Siege”, L.A. Business Journal
SIGNED COMMENTARY
First Place: Andrew Gumbel columns, Los Angeles City Beat
Judges’ comments:
This entry embodies what good column writing is all about – the columns make their point clearly and concisely with solid reporting, elegant writing and touches of sarcasm where appropriate. The columns we read produced a range of emotions from outrage (The Heart of Darkness) to sadness (Ask the President) to compassion (Saving Tookie). Clearly the winner in this category.
Second Place: Amy Alkon columns, Syndicated
Honorable Mention: John Boston columns, The Signal.
COLUMNIST
First Place: Teresa Strasser, Jewish Journal of Greater L.A.
Judges’ comments:
Just loved her stuff. Ms. Strasser brings a fresh and funny perspective on an age old topic: Romance. She’s the Jewish Carrie Bradshaw of Greater L.A.
Second Place: Keven Chavez, San Gabriel Valley Tribune
Honorable Mention: Amy Klein, Jewish Journal of Greater L.A.
EDITORIALS
Presented on the editorial page. May be one or series of columns on a related subject over time, credited to an individual or an editorial team.
First Place: Steve Scauzillo, “No Justice in System”, San Gabriel Valley Tribune
Judges’ comments:
Scauzillo’s compelling, well-written editorial puts a human face on the victim and his family as well as the killer who slipped through the legal system repeatedly. But the editorial goes much further, alerting readers to failures in the courts and penal system that enabled the perpetrator to continue his criminal pursuits.
Second Place: Rob Eshman, The Jewish Journal
Honorable Mention: Mike Carroll, Daily Breeze
ENTERTAINMENT REVIEWS/CRITICISM/COLUMN
First Place: Tom Teicholz, “The Gift of Larry David and Other Chanukah Miracles”, The Jewish Journal of Greater Los Angeles
Judges’ comments:
Teicholz adroitly uses an episode of “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” in which Larry David was faced with donating a kidney and learned that he was possibly adopted, to look at the larger, religious symbolism of his character and to draw parallels with David’s earlier work with the “Seinfeld” show.
Second Place: Andy Klein, “The Blessed, Accursed Hunter”, Los Angeles City Beat
Honorable Mention: John Boston, “Divorce for this ‘Honeymooners’”, The Signal
ENTERTAINMENT FEATURE
Feature coverage of any entertainment subject by one person or a team.
First Place: Leslie Simmons, “Attorney Doubles as Porn Star”, Los Angeles Daily Journal
Second Place: Naomi Pfefferman, Jewish Journal of Greater Los Angeles
Honorable Mention: Steve Appleford, Los Angeles Citybeat
SPORTS
Any news or feature on sports. One story or a series.
First Place: Doug Krikorian, “A Life on the Ropes”, Press-Telegram
Judges’ comments:
Entertaining. Don’t have to like boxing to like this story. Nice lead, good wrap, well-written.
Second Place: Bob Keisser, “From Coast to Coast”, Press-Telegram
Honorable Mention: Bob Keisser, “What Does Science (?) Want …”, Press-Telegram
SPECIAL SECTION
Fashion, health, technology, real estate, automobiles or other special section not covered in other categories and not paid advertising. Any article, series or package including art. Single publication or regularly published.
First Place: Andy Fixmer and Staff, “Who Owns Downtown?”, Los Angeles Business Journal,
Second Place: Pasadena Weekly Staff, “Fall Arts Preview”, Pasadena Weekly,
Honorable Mention: Linda Renaud, “Real Estate News & Views”, Palisadian Post
HEADLINE
First Place: Jim Farber, Show me the mummy, Daily Breeze
Judges’ comments:
Nice play on a popular catch phrase – but more than that it worked because the humor was appropriate to the exhibits needs to raise money.
Second Place: Amy Alkon, Cain, Enabled, Syndicated
Honorable Mention: Shoshana Lewin, Morris Masur, Adam Wells, Let My People Merlot, Jewish Journal of Great Los Angles
DESIGN
First Place: Daniel Kawinski and Carvin Knowles, My Iraq, The Jewish Journal
Judges’ comments:
The use of type and graphics made this cover story stand out. This much covered subject was made fresh and invited the reader to journey with
the subjects.
ART/PHOTOGRAPHY
PRINT: NEWSPAPER / MAGAZINE / WIRE SERVICE / ONLINE
NEWS PHOTO
A single image relating to a breaking story.
First Place: Carolyn Cole, “Katrina Boy”, Los Angeles Times,
Second Place: Raul Roa, San Gabriel Valley Tribune
Honorable Mention: David Crane, Los Angeles Daily News
FEATURE PHOTO
A single image created for a feature story, or as a stand-alone.
First Place: Leo Hetzel, “Snow Meets the Sea”, Long Beach Press-Telegram,
Second Place: Carolyn Cole, Los Angeles Times
Honorable Mention: Stephen Georges, Long Beach Press-Telegram
SPORTS PHOTO
A single sports image.
First Place: Jeff Gritchen, “Ice Dog Hit”, Long Beach Press-Telegram,
Second Place: Keith Birmingham, San Gabriel Valley Tribune
Honorable Mention: Wally Skalij, Los Angeles Times
EDITORIAL CARTOON
An editorial cartoon. May include several cartoons on a specific topic.
First Place: Patrick O’Connor, “Undocumented Workers”, Los Angeles Daily News,
Second Place: Dwayne “Mr. Fish” Booth, LA Weekly
PHOTO ESSAY (single topic)
At least two images published the same day, or as a series, on a single topic. By an individual or a team.
First Place: Francine Orr, “Uganda”, Los Angeles Times,
Second Place: Carolyn Cole and Robert Gauthier, “Katrina”, Los Angeles Times,
Honorable Mention: David Crane, “Mexico”, Los Angeles Daily News,
TELEVISION
REGULARLY SCHEDULED NEWSCAST (35 minutes or less)
First Place: KCBS News Team, CBS 2 “News at 11″
REGULARLY SCHEDULE NEWSCAST (over 35 minutes)
First Place: KCAL 9 News Team, KCAL 9 News at Ten
Judges’ comments:
Incredibly compelling newscast. Photojournalists captured moments after moment of intense drama and tragedy. Reporters seemed to be everywhere. Delivery, solid stories and news viewers could use. “Cold Open Into B Block” was great. Could have done without the “Exclusive” tagline. You don’t need it. The newscast sold itself.
BREAKING NEWS
Any breaking news. One reporter or a team.
First Place: Jeff Wald, “Train Crash”, KTLA
Judges’ comments:
Outstanding coverage that evolved as the story did. Helicopter/ traffic coverage gave way to extended breaking news coverage as the severity of the crash became clear. The reporters used their significant access to the scene to follow the investigation in real time as the possible causes developed from a two-train collision, to an accident with a vehicle on the tracks and eventually to an intentional act. In some of the coverage, you could actually watch other journalists overhear KTLA’s interviews and then join in because KTLA’s reporters were breaking so many updates to the story.
Second Place: Paul Button, “La Conchita Landslide”, KCBS/KCAL
FEATURE
Non-breaking news features, analysis, personalities, lifestyle, special topics.
First Place: Chris Blatchford, “Stanley ‘Tookie’ Williams”, KTTV
Judges’ comments:
Outstanding work to dig deep into the background of Stanley “Tookie” Williams on the eve of his execution. The story cut through the rhetoric to show that the reality of “Tookie” Williams was far different from the portrayal of his supporters. This story took a great deal of legwork to find old acquaintances and old video, but the effort paid off in a story that revealed a great deal of new information.
Second Place: Ana Garcia, “Mennonite Mob”, KNBC
Honorable Mention: Susan Haag, Hal Fishman KTLA
INVESTIGATIVE/SERIES
Reports showing enterprise, initiative, research. By one reporter or a team. Single report or a series.
First Place: Paul Button, “Danger in the Rearview Mirror”, KCAL/KCBS
Judges’ comments:
This story used several investigative tools – including ambush and dogged document work – to expose a real public danger. They found bus drivers whose driving records are so bad that if they applied for the job again, they couldn’t be hired. This investigation was a true public service.
Second Place: Ana Garcia, “Tow Truck Pirates”, KNBC
Honorable Mention (Tie): Chris Blatchford, “Biggie Smalls”, KTTV
Honorable Mention (Tie): Paul Button, “Bad Santas”, KCBS/KCAL
SPORTS
Any news or feature on sports. One story or a series.
First Place: Damon Andrews and Ted Green, “Famous Father’s Sons”, KTLA
TALK/PUBLIC AFFAIRS
Single episode of locally produced news, talk or public affairs series.
First Place: Marley Klaus, Lisa McRee, “California Connected” KCET, a project of KCET, KVIE, KPBS, KQED
Judges’ comments:
Brilliantly executed from start to finish. Both topics (outsourcing health care, Prop 76) were explained thoroughly and interestingly. Solid hosts, editing and graphics. The school board graphics were great. Also loved the idea of high school students learning and exploring issues. The statistics on assumption were shocking and fascinating. Great perspective from industry and patients.
Second Place: Adam Wilkenfeld, “Sticks and Stones”, CWK Network
Honorable Mention: Adam Wilkenfeld, “Against All Odds”, CWK Network
DOCUMENTARIES
A single non-fiction program on a documentary subject.
First Place: California Connected, “New Horizons”, KCET
Second Place: “Gangs of L.A.”, KTLA
RADIO
NEWSCAST
Regularly scheduled newscast from a single day.
First Place: KNX 1070, 11/10/05
Judges’ comments:
The pace and tone keeps the listeners’ attention. Nice job intermingling the traffic and weather with news. The conversational style attracts a broad audience.
Second Place: KCSN 88.5 FM, 10/27/05
Judges’ comments:
A broad range of topics is covered in an articulate and clear newscast.
BREAKING NEWS
Any breaking news. One reporter or a team.
First Place: KNX News Staff, “Metrolink Crash”, KNX
Judges’ comments:
Excellent job of bringing the latest news to listeners. The flow of new information was consistent and understandable.
Second Place: John Rabe, Frank Stolze, “Train Eyewitnesses”, 89.3 KPCC-FM
Honorable Mention: Lance Orozco, John Palminteri, “La Conchita Slide”, KCLU-FM
FEATURE
First Place: Rachel Myrow, “Illegal Employers”, 89.3 KPCC-FM
Judges’ comments:
Solid reporting with great writing and delivery. The reporter drives the main points of the story home effectively – case in point comparing the consequences for the legal immigrant vs. the employees side-by-side.
Second Place: Ben Adair, Ayda Ben-Yehude, “Voice-over Actor”, 89.3 KPCC-FM
Honorable-Mention: Frank Stolze, “Criminal Immigrants”, 89.3 KPCC-FM
INVESTIGATIVE/SERIES
First Place: Rachael Myrow, Surf n’ Turf: Port Issues Series, KPCC 89.3
Judges’ comments:
Great production. Very thorough treatment of subject with an obvious knowledge of what the story should be about. Use of natural sound makes the listener think they’re right there with the reporter. Great example of what a professional radio series should sound like.
Second Place: KPCC News Department, Illegal Immigrants: Benefit or Burden?, KPCC 89.3
Honorable Mention: Michael Linder, Ibogaine-Drug Series, KNX 1070
ENTERTAINMENT REPORTING/CRITICISM
First Place: Ben Adair, “Sam Stern”, 89.3 KPCC
Second Place: Michael, Jamie and Ray, Michael Jackson, KNX CS Radio
Honorable Mention: Anthea Raymond & Loretta Williams, TV, Film Productions Lured Back to the United States, NPR Los Angeles
SPORTS
First Place: Steven Cuevas, Little League, KPCC 89.3
Judges’ comments:
Very interesting feature on Little League using great natural sound and good interviews. Reporter paints a great picture for the listener.
Second Place: Steve Grad, Sports Commentary, KNX 1070
Honorable Mention: Ann Beebe, USC Football: Right Here, Right Now, KMPC-1540 The Ticket
USE OF SOUND
First Place: Ilsa Setziol, “Arroyo Toad”, 89.3 KPCC
Judges’ comments:
The seamless editing of natural sounds and sound bites left me feeling like I was right there in the story. Wonderful use of natural sounds to capture the ear and tell a story. The reporter clearly put a lot of effort and time into this production. The story stood out from all the rest!
Second Place: Sarah Spitz, “Tim Hawkinson: Creating Art with Moving Parts”, KCRW
Honorable Mention: Laura Belous, Ben Adair, “Water on the Border”, 89.3 KPCC
TALK/PUBLIC AFFAIRS
An episode or a locally produced news, talk, information, education or public affairs show or series.
First Place: Will Lewis, Warren Olney, “Which Way L.A.? Commuter Railroad Disaster”, KCRW
Judges’ comments:
Thorough review of breaking news. Excellent guests who explained the significance of this tragedy. Great radio.
Second Place: Jim Rondeau, Lance Orozco, “Crosstalk: The Future of Social Security”, KCLU
Honorable Mention: Sheryl Flowers, “The Tavis Smiley Show: Stanley ‘Tookie’ Williams”, PRI/KPCC
DOCUMENTARIES
First Place: Ronnie Bradford and Dave Zorn, 40 years from Vietnam, KNX 1070
Judges’ comments:
This documentary touches everyone in some way. The producer was careful to keep the story interesting all the way through and gave it a distinct beginning and end. The listener could walk away with a true experience, much more than new information or education. Producers took good care to address the subject seriously and sensitively, while shedding new light on an old dark subject.
Second Place:
Lance Orozco, The World at War, KCLU-FM
Honorary Mention:
Jon Kalish, Sarah Spitz, Rabbi Abulafias Boxed Set, KCRW
NEWS BUREAU
First Place: Warren Olney, “To the Point: London Bombings”, KCRW
Judges’ comments:
Excellent presentation of developing news event. The line-up of guests was impressive.
Second Place: Will Lewis, Warren Olney, “To the Point: Katrina Evacuees”, KCRW
Judges’ comments:
A lot of information about an interesting story. Very solid radio.
Honorable Mention: Sheryl Flowers, “Tavis Smiley Show: Stanley “Tookie” Williams, PRI/ KPCC
Judges’ comments:
Powerful and rare interview with newsmaker. Well done!
MAGAZINES
INCLUDING MAGAZINES WITH L.A. BUREAUS
NEWS/INVESTIGATIVE
First Place: David Evans, Michael Smith, Liz Willen, “Big Pharma’s Shameful Secret”, Bloomberg News
Judges’ comments:
Comprehensive, well-written, decently-packaged. Most important, the people touched by this remarkable scandal carried the narrative and kept me reading. The clear winner.
Second Place: Vickie Bane, “How They Got Scott”, People
Judges’ comments:
Nice inside job.
Honorable Mention: Theresa Marie Moreau, “Justice Is Done”, New Oxford Review
Judges’ comments:
Good effort.
FEATURE/COMMENTARY
First Place: Nelson Handel, “The Frontiers of Flavour”, The Walrus
Judges’ comments:
“Mr. Handel takes readers on a romp through the
complex yet fascinating flavor industry, where scientists and foodies merge to transform molecules into mouth-watering sensations. Mr. Handel writes with self-deprecating humor and authority, simplifying the nuances of a complicated technology into laymen’s terms. He also weaves in memorable anecdotes about his technological and gastronomic encounters, incorporating descriptive language (Construction cranes fill the horizon like wheat in a Saskatchewan field.) and making good use of quotes (Still, the average American eats like shit.) all the while. The article is a compelling look into this burgeoning industry.”
Second Place: Maia Szalavitz, “In Defense of Happy Pills”, Reason Magazine
Honorable Mention: Oliver Jones and Cathy Free, “Castaways”, People Magazine.
ENTERTAINMENT REVIEWS/CRITICISM/COLUMN
Written by one critic on film(s), television, book(s), music, Dance, architecture or the arts.
First Place: Matt Welch and Nick Gillespie, “Exploring the Cultural Impact of Free Agency in Sports”, Reason
Second Place: John Boston, Santa Clarita Valley Living
Honorable Mention: Joe Woodward, Poets and Writers Magazine
ENTERTAINMENT NEWS OR FEATURE
First Place: Gray Matter
