Place Name: First Place Contestant Name: The Pierce County Journal Entry Title: The asphalt ribbon; A little faith; War on blue jays Entry Credit: Sarah Nigbor Judge Comment: A consultant I worked with years ago always said a great newspaper makes the reader feel something. All three of these columns succeed on that score. The writing was concise yet clear and descriptive. I felt like I was sitting with the writer in the moment. These columns are also proof that you don't need 1,500 words to make a point. Very nicely done. Lots of great competition here.
Place Name: Second Place Contestant Name: Ashland Daily Press Entry Title: Public deserves school explanation; COVID claims an Ashland gem; Bayfield County endangers its residents Entry Credit: Peter Wasson Judge Comment: A very close second. Telling truth to power can be tough in our industry's current environment. And few things are more powerful in a small town that law enforcement agencies and school boards. Congratulations on holding both accountable with strong, persuasive prose.
Place Name: Third Place Contestant Name: Barron News-Shield Entry Title: Wedge issue: Should one cheese stand above the rest?; Cat scares: Where did they go?; Monkey business: Setting the record straight Entry Credit: Ryan Urban Judge Comment: A strong 3rd place. Outstanding writing. Funny, clever, interesting. I never even thought of stopping until the end of each. I'm still laughing about "whizzing" down the road in the cheese column.
Place Name: Honorable Mention Contestant Name: Price County Review Entry Title: Karen's Korner Entry Credit: Karen Dums Judge Comment: I wish I could give more than 3 places here. I loved your writing style. It was "breezy" and "fresh." not bad for someone who loves wind.
Competition Comment: Really great work here. I wish I could have recognized more. I especially liked Rich Jackson's takes on the First Amendment. Just not enough places. Readers in Wisconsin are lucky to have such fine columnists.
