2009-10 CRMA Judges’ Comments
General Excellence III (circulation more than 60,000)
Boston Magazine
From its bold logo to its savvy use of typography, Boston Magazine manages to entice readers
and keep them engaged. The combination of great photographs, fun illustrations and effective
design architecture helps this magazine stand out among the entrants.
Chicago Magazine
Muscular and widely ambitious, like the city it covers, Chicago Magazine shows tremendous
scope and heart. This year’s issues include great crime narratives, significant database work and
extensive community surveys, which reveal some surprising facts about the secret life of
Chicago teens. The art direction is sophisticated, the photography is beautiful, and the copy is
clean, crisp and highly readable. And the food reporting is, well, beefy.
Los Angeles Magazine
Like some of Hollywood’s biggest blockbusters, Los Angeles Magazine is best at great
storytelling. In nearly every issue, strong, compelling writing chronicles a sprawling metropolis
filled with big personalities and small ones, trends, food, fun, fame and infamy. The September
issue is a particular reminder of how great writing can elevate the quiet stories of everyday
people into extraordinary gems.
Philadelphia Magazine
With its packages on beaches and boardwalks as well as the decline of an iconic city law firm,
Philadelphia Magazine accomplishes what a good city magazine should. That is, excellent
coverage of compelling local stories with great service. Because Philadelphia does this all so
well, it is not just a local but a national must-read. The writing and the stories can be that
compelling.
Texas Monthly
Magazines seem to come and go, but for 37 years Texas Monthly has remained a standard for the
industry. Whether you’re from Texas or a long-distance admirer, it has something for everyone:
long-form narratives, personal profiles and investigative pieces. By mixing superb writing with
stellar photos, bold designs and dynamic illustrations, Texas Monthly is a standout —year after
year after year.
General Excellence 2 (circulation from 30,000 to 60,000)
Cincinnati Magazine
Cincinnati Magazine boasts impressive feature wells containing clear and often compelling
writing. Its editorial content constitutes an excellent mix of investigative, explanatory and service
journalism. Additionally, the magazine’s design enhances the visibility of the stories, rather than
overwhelming the content.
Columbus Monthly
Columbus Monthly carries out its mission “to help readers understand and enjoy the region”
remarkably well through a good mix of articles both light and serious. The covers grab your
attention, the TOC makes you want to flip to every story, and the calendar of events seems
thorough and helpful. Each month, its features keep readers engaged and wanting more.
Indianapolis Monthly
A regional magazine is not where you would expect to find a previously unpublished short story
by the late writer Kurt Vonnegut. But the October issue of Indianapolis Monthly features
“Fubar,” a whimsical fable by the Indianapolis native that had languished in a box at a local
library for years. The magazine is full of such surprises. With its clean design and sprightly mix
of service and features, Indianapolis Monthly continues to deliver information and entertainment.
Milwaukee Magazine
With a deft combination of in-depth features, reviews and guides, Milwaukee Magazine well
serves its community. Coverage ranges from a comprehensive city manual to a well-written
package on Wisconsin lakes, which included not only a survey of their attributes but also an
investigation into threats to the lakes’ well being. The layout and graphics are consistently clean
and easy to follow, and the selection of photos is always relevant.
Portland Monthly
Portland Monthly has a hip layout, consistently readable packages and an editorial tone of mild
playfulness combined with journalistic rigor. Its February issue is unashamefully boosterish, but
its subjects — filmmaking, luxury dog care, tattooed chefs, epicurean snacking —are all
approached with both reportorial seriousness and dry humor. A lovely read.
General Excellence 1 (circulation fewer than 30,000)
Berkshire Living
Berkshire Living has a crisp, sophisticated design that complements its clean, carefully edited
stories. The magazine is infused with a sense of place — its stories couldn’t have been written
about anything but the Berkshires. In-depth features mesh well with quick department stories to
give each issue a sense of completeness.
Honolulu Magazine
It must be tough to live in a place known as “paradise” and maintain a sense of identity amid the
hordes of tourists. But Honolulu Magazine appeals to both residents and visitors. It reflects
Hawaii’s multiple dimensions, from popular culture and food to civic issues, including Hawaii’s
sovereignty movement. It’s reader-friendly in all senses of the word — its content, design and
editorial range are integrated into a beautiful, useful package.
Main Line Today
Whether writing about life after divorce or an unexpected trend in real estate, Main Line Today
editors provide a number of windows into Westchester, Penn. The stories are well-written and
well-edited. Short, inspirational topics abound. And to careful eyes, the visual concepts always
seem to contain the vibrant colors of the community. Main Line Today reflects a potent mixture
of every aspect of good journalism.
Martha’s Vineyard Magazine
Even the “fluff” in Martha’s Vineyard Magazine has gravitas, as one might expect from a place
that has attracted political and literary intellectuals for so many years. Serious articles about drug
use, the survival of independent bookstores or interviews with literary luminaries are the bread
and butter of the magazine. But it doesn’t forget the sugar and salt, and sprinkles fun in just
enough quantity to transform the magazine into a rich visual and informational dish.
Memphis Magazine
Memphis residents have no reason to sing the blues when Memphis Magazine shows up in their
mailboxes. With a bold, vibrant design; eye-catching photography; and a smart editorial balance,
this magazine delivers the happenings of the River City in an attractive package. Memphis is also
willing to take chances. The July cover depicts a patient with an open hospital gown. It’s slightly
risqué without being offensive and puts a fun spin on an otherwise bland topic.
General Criticism
Berkshire Living
Seth Rogovoy’s richly textured rock ’n’ roll columns recall the glory days when LP liner notes
told you something you didn’t already know about your favorite musicians. He digs into his
subjects and renders a complete picture of their history, significance and sound.
Los Angeles Magazine
Tom Carson turns his critical eye toward books by schooling readers on the writers’ talents and
shortcomings. With literary and pop cultural references ranging from Joan Didion and Tony
Horwitz to Ann Coulter and Pink, his reviews are romping fun reads.
Los Angeles Magazine
To read Steve Erickson regularly is to alter one’s worldview. From Battlestar Galactica to the
re-emergence of the Beatles in video games, his essays navigate the gaudy peaks of popular
culture — and persuade us that it all truly matters.
Los Angeles Magazine
Ariel Swartley displays an appreciable insight into the workings of both fiction and nonfiction.
Her reviews take readers into the pages of books they might not have read, shining a light on
theme, plot and character in a way that leaves them feeling as though they have.
Texas Monthly
Film critic Christopher Kelly brings a demanding and educated sensibility to a familiar cultural
exercise. His reviews are marvels of economy, intellectual reach and irony, proving that he
deserves a much larger audience.
Spread Design
Atlanta Magazine “Deep Freeze”
The not-so-subtle pink and blue colors add context to the frozen chicken egg in a gorgeous
spread about freezing embryos. With elegant but simple touches, such as the melting ice, the
design entices and engages readers.
Chicago Magazine “Trashed”
Arresting is the word that comes to mind when studying this haunting presentation. It’s just an
ordinary alleyway, but the strong one-point perspective and hand-scrawled text draw us into the
scene and ultimately down the road — despite that inner voice that says, “Let’s get out of here.”
Philadelphia Magazine “And Starring Michael Smerconish, as Himself”
Ass on the line, indeed. This gutsy spread is flawlessly executed and visually represents the
outrageous hyperbole of AM talk radio that spews from your car’s speakers.
Philadelphia Magazine “Last Days of the French Chef”
The plaintive look on the chef’s face and the spilt wine effectively set the table for a story about
changes in Philadelphia’s culinary scene. Classic typography and elegant white space also give
the spread a delectable finish.
Texas Monthly “Ted or Alive”
This type treatment whips up a spellbinding Texas tornado. The font hits the mark, flowing into
the fold to connect with a wind-swept, rip-roaring photo of Ted Nugent. Filled with details and
smart additions, the spread draws the viewer in, demanding closer inspection.
Reporting
Atlanta Magazine “The Good People of Dalton Would Like Jobs Now, Please”
With creativity, grace and hard work, Thomas Lake goes far beyond the stereotypes of Latino
immigration in the rural South. He not only documents the Mexican diaspora in Dalton, Ga., but
also exposes a suspicious fire that almost burned one barrio to the ground. Full of nuanced
cultural reporting without the clichés or gauzy romanticism.
San Diego Magazine “The Border Trilogy: Blood of Their Brothers, All the Dead Heroes,
Redeemed by Their Blood”
What more can be said about drug violence on the U.S.-Mexico border? Quite a bit, thanks to
S.D. Liddick’s courageous immersion. Liddick avoids clichés and caricature as he so thoroughly
and convincingly documents one forgotten, violent episode. Readers gain powerful, new insights
into a chronic condition.
Texas Monthly “Across the Line”
With brilliant reporting and persuasive writing, Michael Hall tackles the coverage of a wrongful
prosecution involving child sexual abuse allegations. He exemplifies the difference between
worthy work that’s interesting to read and courageous, essential journalism that needs to be acted
upon immediately by public officials.
Texas Monthly “An Isolated Incident”
Nate Blakeslee provides a well-researched, compelling account of a father’s painstaking search
for truth after the drug overdose death of his son in a fraternity house at Southern Methodist
University. This powerful exposition reveals how the university bungled the investigation in its
attempt to downplay and whitewash a serious substance abuse issue.
Texas Monthly “With God on Their Side”
Devastating and detailed, Katy Vine’s story about what really went on inside a polygamous sect
in West Texas untangles an impossibly complex and emotional case. Vine avoids snap
judgments and conventional wisdom to give readers deep insight into the largest child custody
battle in U.S. history.
Cover
Boston Magazine’s November cover
The moving, heroic image of the young Ted Kennedy provides an uplifting, final memory of the
Massachusetts congressman. The “Teddy Without Tears” cover line and its related subheads
work seamlessly with the image to send a clear, single message, filled with emotion and strength.
Cincinnati Magazine’s July cover
With its overstuffed hot dog, piled with chili and cheese, Cincinnati Magazine moves well
beyond the expected photo for its Mmmm...Chili issue. With its vintage image and modern type
treatment, the cover feels both slightly retro and totally current, and it balances both perfectly.
D Magazine’s March cover
This cover’s quiet mood and black-on-black scheme are powerfully juxtaposed with a bold
portrait of Craig Watkins and a cover blurb labeling him as a rebel. The subtle gray type blends
into the background, and the name of the subject and the magazine pop in a fire-truck red and
school-bus yellow.
Los Angeles Magazine’s December cover
Loud, frenetic, muscular and in your face. This cover is what L.A.’s all about. With its gutsy
typography and a photo that personifies laid-back motorcycle cool, it oozes the city’s culture and
attitude. From handcrafted jewelry to handmade guitars, this cover puts the L.A. design
community on the map.
Texas Monthly’s July cover
With Ted Nugent for the cover subject, a magazine can have some fun. Texas Monthly’s bold
move to run the word “Nuge” in type twice the size of the nameplate works and draws readers in.
The playful deck gives a sense of the magazine’s voice, and smaller sell lines ensure that nothing
intrudes on the photo of Ted and a submachine gun.
Food or Dining Writing
Cincinnati Magazine
Cincinnati often gets short shrift from foodies. But Donna Covrett proves there’s more to the
Queen City’s cuisine than chili five ways. Covrett seeks out under-the-radar establishments with
a friendly and inclusionary tone, inviting you to share in the exuberance of her delectable
discoveries.
Los Angeles Magazine
There’s not a single “mouth-watering” or “to-die-for” found in Patric Kuh’s articles. Instead of
clichés, he provides vivid and thoughtful descriptions, such as writing about a puree of carrots
that “has the airiness of a mousse passed through a silk screen five times.” His ability to weave
telling details into the big picture sets him apart.
New Jersey Monthly
Eric Levin injects new life into this often-tired genre by employing breaking news and feature
writing in his work. His prose truly comes alive in his profile of oddball chef Zod Arifai. Levin
digs beyond the surface freakiness, showing Arifai’s personal side with well-placed, priceless
anecdotes.
Orange Coast Monthly
Gretchen Kurz critiques local dining establishments with fairness and fun. She is a fine writer
who clearly knows her subject well, and her readers reap the rewards.
Seattle Metropolitan
Kathryn Robinson’s writing is engaging, smart and witty. She manages to put the current Seattle
food scene in both cultural and historical context and provides the reader with good
comprehensive service. Robinson clearly knows her stuff.
Personality Profile
Charlotte Magazine “Blind Faith”
In this engrossing profile of blind, novice hiker Trevor Thomas, writer Jeremy Markovich
embarks on a harrowing journey across the Appalachian Trail. He vividly details how Thomas
perseveres through a six-month journey filled with 1,500 falls, 30 bear encounters and a broken
foot. Readers gain new respect for this hiker who has zero/zero vision but inestimable courage
and strength.
Indianapolis Monthly “Free Man”
Painful and honest, “Free Man” follows David Scott as he tries to re-enter his family and society
after spending two decades in prison for a crime he didn’t commit. Writer Tony Rehagen
exposes a too-familiar American headline without any soap box preaching or pontification.
Through undramatized storytelling, we feel the hopelessness of Scott and realize how
detrimental these cracks in our criminal justice system can be.
Los Angeles Magazine “Julius Shulman in 36 Exposures”
Readers might not be familiar with Julius Shulman, the architectural photographer who’s
synonymous with mid-Century Los Angeles style. Regardless, Mary Melton’s profile of his
outsized life, talent and ego make this an absorbing read. She produces a picture of him that’s
full of the kind of vivid color, sharp perspective and detailed composition that characterize her
subject’s finest works.
Philadelphia Magazine “Will This Doctor Hurt Your Baby?”
While deftly integrating a discussion of the anti-vaccine crusade, Jason Fagone reveals the pain a
scientist feels when bombarded by emotionalism. This compelling portrait of the man at the
center of the debate shows us how his mind works when confronted with what he considers a
nonfactual attack on his campaign to save lives.
Texas Monthly “Mike Leach is Thinking …”
It’s all too easy to write the football-coach-as-hero profiles, but S.C. Gwynne isn’t afraid to show
the now infamous man from Texas Tech as a bit of a kook. We realize that Leach, with his
strange pirate obsession, was probably as surprised by his team’s success as the rest of the
country. Gwynne’s thoughtful detail and colorful anecdotes allow us to see Leach under a
different light than in the stadium.
Feature Design
Baltimore Magazine “One Man’s Trash”
Simple designs and cleanly organized information are rarely seen today, so it’s refreshing that
Baltimore Magazine gave such a large amount of space to portraits. The design, while subtle,
enhances the imagery. The use of bold, but small, typographic headlines that hover over each
image is elegant without being intrusive.
Cincinnati Magazine “Welcome to the Outer Limits”
This layout takes more than just an inquisitive look beneath the surface of the suburbs. The
designers achieved a near-perfect mixture of illuminating photography and elegant delivery. This
is a magazine experience at its best: smart reporting delivered in a compelling package that puts
the reader’s attention square on the discoveries at hand.
Los Angeles Magazine “Find it. Cook it. Eat it.”
Chock full of great information, this spread guides readers through a plethora of service pieces.
Its great grid structure, minimal color elements and strong typography carry out the theme. The
vivid imagery and illustrations are certainly the strength to this story.
Los Angeles Magazine “The Best New Bars”
The varied but cohesive typography gives this delightful package a “printed on a bar napkin”
feel. The use of dingbats is inventive but not overdone. Los Angeles Magazine elevates the
design of a traditionally mundane “Best of” story to an exciting package with little nuggets worth
unearthing on every page.
Texas Monthly “The 50 Greatest Hamburgers in Texas”
We’ve all seen hamburgers, eaten hamburgers, even dreamed of them. But Texas Monthly takes
the American staple to mouth-watering heights. The storytelling comes off the page with salivainducing photos and an elegant design. This spread accomplishes what any great food feature
strives for: It makes readers hungry for more.
Feature Story
Atlanta Magazine “The Debtor”
It’s all too easy to get immersed in this narrative by Thomas Lake, who guides the reader through
thorny territories with aplomb. His facile writing and strong organizational skills ensure that the
story keeps moving and readers keep reading. This is the kind of narrative nonfiction that movies
are made of.
Chicago Magazine “A Mugging on Lake Street”
Being assaulted in such a savage manner had to be hard for John Conroy to endure, but writing
about it had to be doubly so. Whereas a lesser writer would have struggled to keep his emotions
from pervading this piece, Conroy adeptly walks the line between cool analysis and cathartic
subjectivity.
Portland Monthly “The Last Days of My Left Breast”
Losing a breast to cancer before the age of 35 isn’t funny. Why then is the reader left laughing
out loud at Viva Las Vegas’ unflinching description of exactly that? Las Vegas, a stripper, writer
and bartender, treats her own story with honesty and humor. The result is a delightfully written
piece about a topic to which the word “delight” can rarely be attributed.
Texas Monthly “Children of the Storm”
Mimi Swartz couples exceptional reporting with excellent writing in the story of five black
children who were taken in by a white woman after Hurricane Katrina and their biological
mother who struggles to regain custody. Swartz masters all the difficult tasks before her
including earning the trust of hostile subjects, addressing issues of racism and pursuing questions
that have no clear answers.
Texas Monthly “Still Life”
In the hands of Skip Hollandsworth, “Still Life” begins as a tale of tragedy and ends as a
beautiful and moving story of love. He explores the fleeting nature of public sympathy, the true
meaning of strength and, above all, the bond between mother and child. These age-old topics are
exquisitely rendered anew by skilled storytelling.
Column
Chicago Magazine
One must have a sick sense of humor to associate cognitive dysfunction syndrome with the
ingestion of too many hamburgers. Jeff Ruby does that, as well as explores how two Windy City
brothers are the real Santa Claus(es). He pokes fun at himself and his adopted town in a lively,
accessible voice that’s all his own.
Connecticut Magazine
Lary Bloom takes readers behind the headlines — in columns on a high-profile divorce trial, an
innovative school-justice program and his own former newspaper, the Hartford Courant. He
finds the telling details, the pathos and the humor in a wide variety of situations.
Los Angeles Magazine
Anne Taylor Fleming doesn’t so much rip stories from the headlines as wander into them,
contemplating what her hometown narratives mean to her. In a city where journalists regularly
achieve new heights by sinking to new lows, Fleming instead considers the humanity of her
subjects as she admits to her own.
Seattle Metropolitan
Kathryn Robinson’s columns fuse an unmistakable personal voice with insights on social issues.
She discovers, for example, the social repercussions of her new sobriety and uses the prism of
her preteen daughter’s foray into calling boys to discuss gender inequities in dating. Her work is
at once entertaining, smart and emotionally resonant.
Seattle Metropolitan
Eric Scigliano represents the best of column writing: solid reporting and strong opinions. What
he also epitomizes is a columnist who works hard and cares about his community, giving his
readers something solid to think about each month.
Blog Column
Chicago Magazine “Deal Estate”
Anyone living in Chicago, thinking about living in Chicago or perhaps leaving Chicago should
check out this blog about the most notable properties for sale. Dennis Rodkin doesn’t just recite
numbers or offer pictures (though he does both of those things), he also tells the history of each
place.
Memphis Magazine “Ask Vance”
If only Vance Lauderdale could be rented out as a cocktail party companion, he would make
social engagements so much more fun. This “know-it-all” does indeed seem to know all when it
comes to local trivia and history. A great voice and lovely use of old-timey images come through
loud and clear.
Mpls.St.Paul Magazine “Party Patrol”
With a gossipy, light-hearted voice, “Party Patrol” fits right into the blogosphere world while
upholding the magazine’s standards. Writers Maura Ryan and Erin Gulden keep the locals
informed on what’s happening and who’s going to be there.
New Orleans Magazine “The Editor’s Room”
Errol Laborde’s Editor’s Room blog is like a backstage pass to New Orleans’ political
underground. Using a true newspaperman’s no-nonsense style, Laborde gets to the heart of the
matter with commentary that’s informative and deeply sourced.
Pittsburgh Magazine “Pulling No Punches”
This laugh-out-loud sports blog has lots going for it – a sense of immediacy that works so well
with sports reporting, great integration of imagery and an accessible “every man” style. Sean
Conboy is able to make readers care about an enthusiastic niche and create converts.
Redesign
Berkshire Living
The magazine’s elimination of the spread section openers in favor of one main image gets the
reader engaged right away. Combining the back-of-book listings make the Guide more appealing
and functional. Overall, the font’s change from a classic serif to a much rounder and friendlier
typeface makes this magazine more inviting.
Hudson Valley Magazine
Stronger and bolder fonts, engaging photography and an effective use of white space characterize
Hudson Valley’s new design. By scaling images with respect to type, the designers have created
visually well-balanced pages. The feature spreads are light years ahead of where they used to be.
Milwaukee Magazine
Already a visually strong publication, Milwaukee Magazine’s redesign is more evolution than
revolution. The overstated department heads have been replaced by more subtle typography and
a welcome increase in white space. Refined departments along with beautifully photographed
feature wells demonstrate that the design has matured nicely.
St. Louis Magazine
The new St. Louis Magazine carries a dramatically bolder and better look than its predecessor.
With sophisticated typography and a bold use of space, the magazine makes an energetic
statement and projects a fun, hip attitude.
Writer of the Year
Robert Sanchez, 5280 Magazine
Whether it’s a story about a historic crime that mesmerized Colorado or a portrait of a former
NFL linebacker who’s losing his mind, Robert Sanchez immerses himself into fascinating
material and memorable characters. His pieces are wonderfully easy to read, like small
storybooks mixed with the elbow grease of great reporting. If range makes a writer, then Sanchez
is at the top of the game.
Thomas Lake, Atlanta Magazine
A probing, adventurous reporter who isn’t afraid to tackle the tough stories, Thomas Lake
handles each of his pieces with dignity, honesty and a keen writer’s touch. His series on an
army medic killed in the line of duty and satirical piece on Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt
Ryan are examples of how good an idea can be executed if the writer is willing to take a risk.
Bryan Smith, Chicago Magazine
Bryan Smith’s voice is like no one else’s working in city and regional magazines today, taking
the reader through epic highs and lows. It can be playful, as evidenced in the piece about his
exploits as a figure skater. Or it can be haunting, as he describes two sons who set out to avenge
the murder of their beloved patriarch. Smith has the reporting chops to stand against anyone in
the industry.
Tony Rehagen, Indianapolis Monthly
Tony Rehagen’s incredible eye for detail makes his narratives come alive. With empathy and
bare-bones beauty, he describes the experiences of an innocent Indiana man who spent more than
two decades in prison. Weaving through frantic, late-night traffic, Rehagen also turns his
impersonation of a pizza delivery driver into a fun, riveting story. These details not only make
the writing sing but also make for an exceptional body of work.
Mimi Swartz, Texas Monthly
With her striking and diverse body of work, Mimi Swartz emerges as an excellent and relentless
reporter, compassionate narrative storyteller and a fine columnist, tackling difficult topics with
clarity and grace. In “Children of the Storm,” she goes behind the headlines of the murky story
of Hurricane Katrina evacuees. In “Failing Darla,” Swartz makes a strong argument that
developmentally disabled people can not only contribute to society but can also thrive.
Designer of the Year
Grace Saunders, Cincinnati Magazine
Annual lists, such as the city’s best restaurants, can become a bore, but Grace Saunders makes
them highly compelling. Photographs are played large and stand alone when appropriate. Her
designs are fun and bold, especially in the “Welcome to the Outer Limits” spreads.
Lisa Lewis, Los Angeles Magazine
From the elegant simplicity of her spread for “The Last Frontier” to the playful graphic solution
for “Flour Power,” Lisa Lewis demonstrates a high level of diverse design skills. Her layout on
the Charles Manson oral history showcases her ability to mix photographic illustrations and
select typography.
Steven Banks, Los Angeles Magazine
In the hands of Steven Banks, Los Angeles Magazine becomes a roller-coaster ride of boldness
and aggression. His strong type sensibility dominates every page, easily capturing the frenetic
energy of the city. This in-your-face style is cleverly complemented by great navigation and very
readable type.
Brian Johnson, Minnesota Monthly
With modern, thoughtful and game-changing designs, Brian Johnson has set the bar very high.
Month after month, he produces beautiful, clean typography and imaginative photography,
giving us the sense that it all comes very easy to him.
Andrew Zahn, Philadelphia Magazine
Andrew Zahn works with typography in creative ways as is evident in his spreads for “1978
Called. It Wants Its Newspaper Back” and “This Party Sucks” features. His design consistently
enhances the story without drawing too much attention to itself.
Photo Essay
5280 Magazine “The Forgotten Plains”
Paying homage to Colorado’s high plains, this moving photo essay displays Colorado’s
sweeping landscapes, giving readers a full picture of life on the non-mountainous half of the
state. Photographer Jefferson Panis met the challenge to convey a sense of scale within the vast
spaces that are pictured.
Atlanta Magazine “Arrested Development”
There must have been thousands of stories written about the implosion of the U.S. housing
market, but photographer Andrea Fremiotti brings a fresh perspective to this well-worn subject.
The most telling images contrast empty lots and half-built roads with pristine suburban houses
and manicured golf courses.
Los Angeles Magazine “Shadow Play”
This whimsical fashion essay is fun and original. Light is used to create humorous situations and
hidden messages as the shadows become the subjects in Hugh Kretschmer’s photographs. The
fashion complements the scenes that were created.
Sactown Magazine “Tats Incredible!”
Celebrating the art of the tattoo, Jeremy Sykes’ collection of starkly photographed, heavily
tattooed individuals silhouetted on white backgrounds is strangely upbeat. Although the images
are shocking, they are tempered by the humanity of individual stories, especially in the picture of
a 20-year-old tattoo artist and a 62-year old grandmother.
Texas Monthly “Fear Factor”
Who doesn’t love a good ghost story? Todd Hido showcases a series of eerie portraits — a
crumbling hotel lobby, a decrepit crypt, an abandoned prison cellblock — each location with a
spine-tingling history of misdeeds and hauntings.
Excellence in Writing
Boston Magazine’s November Issue
Boston Magazine is a consistently strong publication with terrific writing and a good mix of
serious and lighter topics. The November 2009 issue will be remembered as the definitive tribute
to Teddy Kennedy. It’s a keeper.
Chicago Magazine’s November Issue
Frank Sinatra should have had a copy of Chicago Magazine when he sang this city’s anthem. It
authoritatively captures Chicago’s majesty and the sobering reality. This issue not only informs
readers with smart advice, such as the best 30 restaurants for a $30 dinner, but also dives deeply
into serious issues, such as the gripping narrative of a teenager whose body turned up in an alley.
Philadelphia Magazine’s June Issue
Philadelphia exemplifies a publication’s devotion to probing, provocative, relevant and just plain
fun writing. Its stories on a wealthy family consumed by greed and the collapse of a prominent
Philly law firm are tailored for the citizens who know and love the City of Brotherly Love.
Texas Monthly’s September Issue
Texas Monthly is a legitimate reason to want to live in the Lone Star State. Whether exploring
why tortilla chips are so good, taking a whimsical look at the crowned queens of Texas’ smalltown festivals or explaining how novel plays made Mike Leach perhaps the best college football
coach in the country, this magazine entertains and enlightens.
Yankee Magazine’s July/August Issue
Yankee’s consistently high caliber of writing and attention to detail are evident throughout its
pages — from the smallest of captions to the cover story titled “Who Doesn’t Love a
Lighthouse?” This issue continues the rich tradition of well-crafted, sparkling writing that speaks
to the New Englander in all of us.
Excellence in Design
Chicago Magazine’s October issue
Sophisticated design touches appear throughout this issue. The Arena section features an array of
visual approaches, and the bridal registry layout is a stellar example of how even the tiny onecolumn spaces between ads can be designed effectively.
Cincinnati Magazine’s July issue
The invitingly delicious cover of the July 2009 edition does not disappoint, with beautiful
illustrations and well-chosen photographs exploding off of the page. Superb graphics and a
purposeful use of fonts help organize Chicago’s overall layout, which is thoroughly enjoyable.
Los Angeles Magazine’s September issue
Los Angeles Magazine’s sophisticated typography is contemporary while paying homage to the
city’s historic roots. The magazine is not afraid to look inside the “Anatomy of a Prison” with
raw black and white images or produce a fall fashion layout centering on sweet, youthful urban
romance.
Philadelphia’s December issue
Stunning visuals pack the pages of Philadelphia, particularly in its well-designed gift guide and
the cover story. The display type projects a clear sense of local personality, and an engaging
variety of designs on department pages supports a consistent feel for the overall magazine.
Texas Monthly’s July issue
The July issue has a well-tailored feel to its overall aesthetic, as the cover and opening pages
provide an inviting window into the rest of Texas Monthly’s book-like feel. Story layouts such
as the spirits feature combine strong photography with elegant typography, and the Ted Nugent
opening spread is expertly crafted.
Reader Service
5280 Magazine “Snow Business”
This high-energy package includes the perfect mix of “what to do” and “did you know?”
material about Colorado’s snow season. Readers learn about people whose lives and jobs
revolve around the snow business as well as driving tactics and how meteorologists have fared at
predicting the powder over the years.
Atlanta Magazine “Street Smarts”
This comprehensive piece navigates through the traffic and road issues of a bustling metropolis.
Humor and history are woven into the stories, and the fun packaging provides lots of options on
each page. Atlanta residents will feel ready to get behind the wheel again after reading “Street
Smarts.”
Chicago Magazine “Teen Confidential”
After surveying nearly 600 teens and 250 parents, Chicago editors compiled a fascinating look at
what teens think about their school, sex and drugs, among other topics. Quotes from the teens
provide real insight and a personal touch, rather than leaving this story feeling clinical.
Chicago Magazine “How to Deal with a Medical Crisis”
Taking the angle of a recently diagnosed patient, this insightful article walks the reader through
myriad questions likely to confound them in the minutes, days and weeks following the
introduction to their new reality. Graham Meyer answers the obvious and not-so-obvious
questions.
Seattle Metropolitan “Adult Ed 101”
From the opening-page graphics to the final listing of a nine-month Human Resources
Management session at Bellevue College, this article hooks readers. Instead of another article on
how to save money, this piece takes a pro-active approach, providing actionable advice, along
with pricing information for 25 change-of-life educational adventures.
Civic Journalism
Hudson Valley Magazine “A Resident Outraged”
It can be easy to over-dramatize a story about unsafe drinking water. But Greg Ryan avoids those
pitfalls in this well-documented piece about Debra Hall, who discovered high levels of a toxic
substance in her neighborhood’s water wells. Ryan writes with stunning detail, showing how the
fractured pieces of a town under siege can coalesce through civic action.
Los Angeles Magazine “The War Within”
In her documentation of a troubled veteran returning to L.A. from Iraq, Louise Farr skillfully
interweaves the case study with big-picture statistics, projections and interviews. The result is an
eminently readable story about a disturbing phenomenon that is almost certain to worsen
throughout the Los Angeles area and the nation.
Los Angeles Magazine “Anatomy of a Prison”
Joe Domanick listened to the horror stories about prison overcrowding and barbarism. Then he
went to see the situation for himself at the prison closest to downtown Los Angeles. The reality
is scarier than even the worst rumors.
Texas Monthly “Dream of a Common Language”
By tackling the decades-long travail of bilingual education in Texas, Nate Blakeslee performs a
significant public service. His piece airs the stagnation and the dramatic consequences suffered
by children whom the system has failed. Blakeslee also reveals solutions available, proving that
journalists can play a constructive role in helping resolve conflicts.
Washingtonian Magazine “Call 911! Trouble in the ER”
John Pekkanen’s sophisticated probe into D.C.’s emergency medical care system reflects the best
qualities of investigative journalism. Solid reporting and sourcing combined with a clear and
compelling narrative voice make for spellbinding reading. One source in the article says if the
people knew they were rolling the dice every time they called 911, they’d demand a change.
Now, they know.
Leisure/Lifestyle Interests
Boston Magazine “The Obsessive’s Guide to the 2009 Boston Red Sox”
Anyone who reads the lead of this piece by Tommy Craggs gets a wonderful taste of what’s to
come. The two spreads of Fenway Park, entitled “It Happened Here,” are alone more than worth
the price of the magazine.
Cincinnati Magazine “Mmmm … Chili”
Mouth-watering descriptions in this feature about “bowls of red” make us want to take a seat at
the counter and order. The testing panel spread is a nice touch as are the vivid details and solid
writing.
Columbus Monthly “The Best Damn Tailgate Guide in the Land”
To appreciate this fun and useful guide to Ohio State Football, you have to know about the
fanaticism of the 100,000 or more people who pack Ohio Stadium every Saturday in the fall.
This nicely chunked piece covers everything from hiring mascot Brutus Buckeye for your
tailgate to a musical bottle opener that plays the OSU fight song.
Martha’s Vineyard Magazine “Spring’s Wild Edibles, Summer’s Wild Edibles, Fall’s Wild
Edibles”
This three-part series highlights various foods and ingredients available on the island during the
spring, summer and fall seasons. Large photos depict locals collecting watercress, cutting wild
roses and foraging for sassafras. The packages provide useful service, such as what plants should
look like during the growing season and enticing recipes.
Texas Monthly “Step Right Up”
Texas Monthly takes readers on a lively two-step through the state’s traditional country dance
halls, paying homage to eight of these historic honky tonks, where the music’s hot and the Shiner
Bock is cold. Brisk writing and a roundup of current top performers make this one story you
shouldn’t sit out.
Special Issues
Boston Magazine’s November issue
Boston Magazine’s Ted Kennedy special section limns a man and an era in both supple prose and
revealing pictures from surprising sources and with surprising emotion. The life of a giant is laid
out before us in a journalistic smorgasbord that hits historical highs and tabloid lows. This
section covers the national story in fresh ways.
Chicago Magazine’s July issue
All the juicy details you’d like to know about your neighbors but would never dreaming of
asking can be found in this lively, creatively packaged Sex & Love issue. Outsiders can enjoy the
behind-the-curtains peep at Chicago’s romantic habits, but locals will appreciate stories such as
“The Big Party,” reliving the sexual escapades of Hugh Hefner and his Gold Coast mansion.
Los Angeles Magazine’s February issue
Los Angeles Magazine’s Movie Lovers Guide delightfully mixes personalities, commentary and
criticism. The content is timely and relevant, with elements such as “The Loot” and “The Fans”
making the issue as fun to look at as it is to read.
Portland Magazine’s February issue
This Hollywood-themed issue manages to incorporate glitz and journalistic gravitas with its
special section on local film production. The stories bring Hollywood down to earth with deep
reporting and revealing interviews.
Texas Monthly’s March issue
Texans have a style unto themselves, as this well-rounded issue of Texas Monthly explains. From
hats to homes, these fun-loving stories reveal the talent, ingenuity and history behind the Lone
Star State through its use of elegant visuals, intriguing interviews and smart feature writing.
Excellence Online
Atlanta Magazine
A lively site that goes far beyond the online consumer guides, AtlantaMagazine.com is not a
supplement to the magazine but a destination in itself. From the current issue to blogs and social
networking, this site can only grow in the stories, information and services it provides.
Chicago Magazine
Chock full of stories about the city’s dining, shopping and news, ChicagoMag.com provides
online viewers a chance to interact. The site goes beyond its printed publication with a number of
blogs that extend the Chicago Magazine brand.
Mpls.St.Paul Magazine
Mspmag.com uses colorful images, compelling headlines and interesting content to wow readers
the moment they hit the home page. The magazine makes nice use of social media, blogs and
multimedia to tell stories and cover social events.
Philadelphia Magazine
Phillymag.com offers an impressive array of information in numerous formats. Its extensive
databases help readers pick a restaurant, find a bar, choose a dentist and look for a doctor.
Feature articles receive prominent play on the home page.
Texas Monthly
TexasMonthly.com delivers content with a clean, easy-to-navigate and intuitive online
presentation. Its multimedia exclusives take this site to the next level.
Ancillary Publications I (fewer than 35,000 circulation)
Berkshire Living for BBQ: Berkshire Business Quarterly
The forces behind BBQ explore the creative reaches of what a business publication can be. The
playful title and cooking-themed sections are memorable and lead readers to engaging articles on
topics that venture beyond business magazine staples. The design is equally innovative and
provides added impact. The carefully selected photos and typography make for lush pages that
draw readers in.
Berkshire Living for Berkshire Living home+garden
The graceful elements that make a house a home receive special play in Berkshire Living home+
garden: from antique French wallpaper and tribal rugs made from vegetable dyes to a stone table
covered with green moss and white lichen. Inviting photos and articles capture the personal
stories that bring elegant homes to life.
Evansville Living for Evansville City View
If you’re thinking of moving to Evansville, this magazine should be your Bible. Practical and
punchy, Evansville City View provides a superb newcomer’s guide that could probably tell
residents a thing or two. Especially useful are articles such as “A Perfect Day in Evansville,”
which offers advice for singles, parents or empty-nesters.
Inside Columbia for Inside Columbia’s CEO
CEO is a smart, sometimes surprising take on the local business scene. Unlike other rah-rah
magazines that tout local CEOs as demigods, Inside Columbia’s publication is appropriately
skeptical when the stories call for it. Clever writing and graphics make this a cover-to-cover
read.
Martha’s Vineyard Magazine for Home & Garden
This absolutely beautiful magazine gives readers dream homes to drool over and stories about
gardeners who aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty. Terrific photos splash across pages in clean,
uncluttered layouts. Elegant niceties about angel-wing begonias mix with unexpected details on
indoor composting toilets and how to use chickens as a source of heat.
Ancillary Publications 2 (more than 35,000 circulation)
Boston Magazine for Boston Home
Boston Home successfully implements heaps of content without looking cluttered. Gorgeous
two-page photographic spreads with typographic callouts create standout openers for the Kitchen
Confidential package. Superb interior home photography, lively typography and coordinating
color palettes make this publication among the most polished of home magazines.
Boston Magazine for New England Travel
With so many travel magazines throwing everything but the kitchen sink into the mix, New
England Travel’s commitment to an elegant, understated grid is a refreshing change of pace.
Clean lines, solid typography and bold colors make for easy navigation and a handbook for those
on the go. Fantastic photographs combined with playfully illustrated maps are the icing on the
cake.
Philadelphia Magazine for Philadelphia Home
Photographs dominate this magazine and give it flair and stylish excellence – the same qualities
of a well-designed, planned home. The design establishes Philadelphia Home as a credible and
accessible source, a magazine to use as well as peruse. Its contents offer a guide to the purpose,
planning and execution of home design with thorough stories, inviting design and easy reading.
Seattle Metropolitan for Seattle Metropolitan Bride & Groom
Even if you’re not part of a wedding yourself, you can appreciate Seattle Metropolitan Bride &
Groom. With stunning photography and a clean, welcoming design, it introduces the reader to
interesting people, takes them to important events and offers suggestions on how the bride and
groom can make their day more special.
Washingtonian Magazine for Washingtonian Bride & Groom
Bridal magazines are typically full of stock stories and to-do lists, but this one comes with a great
look and original writing. Perhaps most striking is the use of well-conceived, creative
photographs. The opening spreads are particularly strong, making readers want to continue,
whether they’re getting married or not.
E-Newsletter
5280 Magazine “Table Talk”
Referring readers back to the magazine’s Web site, 5280’s “Table Talk” is a useful tool. The
variety of topics it covers and the clean, simple design are inviting. Having multiple authors
helps establish credibility and ensures thorough coverage of a large and sprawling metro area.
Chicago Magazine “Dish”
“Dish” proves that a newsletter can be a fun, light, conversational and entertaining way to deliver
news and other information. Strong typography and design break up items with a simple, subtle
bar, and bolded names of people, restaurants and addresses make it easy to skim.
Chicago Magazine “Chicago Guide”
The “listicle” format of “Chicago Guide” makes for easy reading in e-mail format. Breaking
down the list by types of entertainment helps readers scan for what they are most interested in. It
also refers readers to the Web site without being repetitive, highlighting information that is
probably buried elsewhere online.
Philadelphia Magazine “The Weekender”
This e-newsletter succeeds because it separates events by category and takes some space to
describe why they’re getting special attention. Its simple layout is useful to readers who want to
look at their weekend options at-a-glance.
Rhode Island Magazine “The Dish”
This comprehensive monthly e-newsletter provides readers with news about the local food scene,
including a culinary calendar, recipes, profiles of area restaurants and chefs, and a Q&A section.
Multimedia
Washingtonian Magazine
Washingtonian uses multimedia when it’s the right way for a story to be told, not just as an addon. Its stories have good pacing and a nice narrative arc, with an engaging style that invites users
to care about the topic. Creative photography really helps this entry stand out.
What’s Up? Annapolis
What’s Up? Annapolis impresses with top-notch production quality, jaunty storytelling and a
clear desire to engage its Web audience. The video of Ava’s Pizzeria and Wine Bar is a model
for the shot-on-location restaurant profile. Its approach to editing, use of sound and photo quality
is among the best in the country.
Yankee Magazine
Yankee Magazine’s video entries are fun, informative and provocative. It’s not easy to put
together a regular cooking show, but this Annie Copps series is a delightful break from the
ordinary and shows an adept experiment with branding.
Community Service Project
5280 Magazine “Single in the City”
The opportunity to bring together Denver’s top 24 singles, throw a trendy party and partner with
ABC’s The Bachelor provided the perfect opportunity for 5280 to raise money to benefit
Volunteers of America. The sold-out event was also a clever way for 5280 to strengthen its
relationship with the often hard-to-reach younger demographic.
Berkshire Living “The Rest of the Story”
“The Rest of the Story,” in which citizens gathered at a local cinema for a question-and-answer
session, appealed as a meaningful way to foster community conversation. Although this was not
a fundraising endeavor, it got people out of their homes and into one another’s lives for learning
and conversation.
Cincinnati Magazine “Books by the Banks”
This free event brought together readers of all ages and authors to talk about literary genres and
explore ideas. The event, which attracted 2,600 people and led to $42,000 in book sales, also
focused on the larger issue of literacy and the importance of reading.
Rhode Island Magazine “Best of Rhode Island ArtReach”
This signature event is truly owned by the magazine and awards more than $60,000 in grants to
dozens of local art teachers, allowing talented students to show off their work. The 2009 event
raised $31,000, attracted 1,100 guests and aired during primetime on ABC and on the local NBC
affiliate.
St. Louis Magazine “FEVER Fall Fashion Show”
Having raised more than $95,000 for charities since 2004, St. Louis Magazine’s fall fashion
show (coinciding with its fashion issue) sold out in 2009 and collected more $37,000 for Autism
Speaks. Celebrity guest Holly Robinson-Peete, who has an autistic son, was featured locally on
every major TV and radio station.