For release: Saturday, June 22, 2013 10 p.m.
Contact:
Tay Bailey
(205) 871-7737
APA Better Newspaper Contest Award Winners Announced
Winners of the 2013 Alabama Press Association Better Newspaper Contest were announced
tonight by Dee Ann Campbell, chairman of the APA Better Newspaper Contest Committee.
Seventy-two newspapers submitted 2,668 entries in the annual contest. Kentucky Press
Association judged the entries.
The awards were presented tonight, June 22 at the 2013 Alabama Press Association Summer
Convention at the Hilton Sandestin in Destin, Florida. General Excellence, Best Public Service,
Freedom of Information, Most Improved, Best Presswork, Photo of the Year, Story of the Year and
Categories 1-8 were announced during the awards banquet.
General Excellence awards are based on total points earned from five areas: issues submitted for
the general excellence category, awards in eight general categories, awards in the public service and FOI
categories, awards in the single event categories and awards from the advertising contest.
-30(Enclosed is a list of award winners in all categories)
Alabama Press Association
2013 Better Newspaper Contest Winners
2013 General Excellence Winners
Division A
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Birmingham News
TimesDaily (Florence)
The Anniston Star
Division B
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Opelika-Auburn News
The Selma Times-Journal
The Cullman Times
Division C
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Shelby County Reporter (Columbiana)
The Arab Tribune
The Choctaw Sun-Advocate (Gilbertown)
Division D
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Southeast Sun (Enterprise)
The Eufaula Tribune
The Greenville Advocate
Division E
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
280 Living (Birmingham)
The Post (Centre)
The Homewood Star (Birmingham)
Best Public Service
Division A
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Division B
1st place
2nd place
The Anniston Star for adult obesity coverage by Tim Lockette, Cameron Steele &
Bob Davis
The Decatur Daily for Hartselle’s Title IX issue coverage by Deangelo McDaniel
& Lucy Berry
The Birmingham News for April 27 tornadoes legacy coverage by staff
3rd place
The Outlook (Alexander City) for city government coverage by staff
The Andalusia Star-News for municipal election 2012 coverage by Stephanie
Nelson
The Selma Times-Journal for YMCA of Selma coverage by staff
Division C
1st place
Shelby County Reporter for Shelby County’s sex offenders coverage by staff
2nd place
3rd place
Division D
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Division E
1st place
2nd place
The Choctaw Sun-Advocate (Gilbertown) for “Bullies Still Bully” series by Dee
Ann Campbell
The Choctaw Sun-Advocate (Gilbertown) for abandoned animals coverage by
Dee Ann Campbell
The Demopolis Times for High School Board of Education coverage by staff
The Eufaula Tribune for election coverage by staff
Hartselle Enquirer for Hartselle Board of Education coverage by staff
The Homewood Star for Homewood City Council Election coverage by staff
Village Living (Birmingham) for Lane Parke Development coverage by Madoline
Markham
FOI – First Amendment Award
Division A
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Division B
1st place
Division C
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Division D
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Decatur Daily for coverage of state employees’ unused leave by Mary Sell
Montgomery Advertiser for coverage of grade changing in Montgomery high
schools by staff
The Anniston Star for coverage of financing political campaigns by staff
The Daily Home (Talladega) for coverage of city officials hiring scandal by
David Atchison
Birmingham Business Journal for coverage of Birmingham-Jefferson Convention
Complex expansion by Ryan Poe
Birmingham Business Journal for coverage of Jefferson County bankruptcy by
Ryan Poe
The Monroe Journal (Monroeville) for coverage of Monroeville Junior High
School principal’s conviction of sexual harassment by Mike Qualls
Sumter County Record-Journal (Livingston) for coverage of Sumter County
Board of Education misdeeds by Tommy McGraw
The Demopolis Times for coverage of Demopolis High School Board of
Education by staff
The Courier (Fairhope) for coverage of City Council by Mike Odom
Most Improved
Division A
There were no entries in this category.
Division B
1st place
The Daily Sentinel (Scottsboro)
Division C
1st place
Call News (Citronelle)
Division D
1st place
The Record (Dadeville)
Division E
1st place
Village Living (Birmingham)
Best Presswork
Division A
1st place
2nd place
TimesDaily (Florence)
The Tuscaloosa News
Division B
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Clanton Advertiser
The Outlook (Alexander City)
The Cullman Times
Division C
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Monroe Journal (Monroeville)
Call News (Citronelle)
Shelby County Reporter (Columbiana)
Division D
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Madison County Record
The Greenville Advocate
Washington County News (Chatom)
Division E
1st place
2nd place
The Redstone Rocket (Huntsville)
Madison Weekly News
Photograph of the Year
TimesDaily (Florence) for “Changed Forever” by Matt McKean
Story of the Year
The Opelika-Auburn News for “Police hunting for suspect” by Donathan Prater, Ryan Wood, Mike
Szvetitz and staff
Category 1 — Best Editorial Page or Section
Division A
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Birmingham News
The Anniston Star
TimesDaily (Florence)
Division B
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Opelika-Auburn News
The Daily Mountain Eagle (Jasper)
The Selma Times-Journal
Division C
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Tri-City Ledger (Flomaton)
Call News (Citronelle)
The Monroe Journal (Monroeville)
Division D
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Greenville Advocate
The Brewton Standard
The Eufaula Tribune
Division E
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Courier-Journal (Florence)
The Post (Centre)
The Franklin Free Press (Russellville)
Category 2 — Best Lifestyle/Family Pages
Division A
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Birmingham News
TimesDaily (Florence)
The Dothan Eagle
Division B
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Cullman Times
The News Courier (Athens)
The Opelika-Auburn News
Division C
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Shelby County Reporter (Columbiana)
The Blount Countian (Oneonta)
The Monroe Journal (Monroeville)
Division D
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Hartselle Enquirer
The Southeast Sun (Enterprise)
The Demopolis Times
Division E
1st place
The Redstone Rocket (Huntsville)
Category 3 — Best Sports Page
Division A
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Tuscaloosa News
The Birmingham News
The Dothan Eagle
Division B
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Opelika-Auburn News
The Fort Payne Times-Journal
The Daily Sentinel (Scottsboro)
Division C
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Call News (Citronelle)
The Monroe Journal (Monroeville)
The Arab Tribune
Division D
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Auburn Villager
The Southeast Sun (Enterprise)
The Eufaula Tribune
Division E
1st place
2nd place
The Franklin Free Press (Russellville)
Madison Weekly News
Category 4 — Best Layout and Design
Division A
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Decatur Daily
The Tuscaloosa News
TimesDaily (Florence)
Division B
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Opelika-Auburn News
The Outlook (Alexander City)
The Cullman Times
Division C
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Birmingham Business Journal
Shelby County Reporter (Columbiana)
The Monroe Journal (Monroeville)
Division D
1st place
The Eufaula Tribune
2nd place
3rd place
The Southeast Sun (Enterprise)
The Brewton Standard
Division E
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Courier Journal (Florence)
The Redstone Rocket (Huntsville)
Madison Weekly News
Category 5 — Best Local Economic Coverage
Division A
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Huntsville Times
TimesDaily (Florence)
The Tuscaloosa News
Division B
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Cullman Times
The Selma Times-Journal
The Fort Payne Times-Journal
Division C
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Shelby County Reporter (Columbiana)
The Choctaw Sun-Advocate (Gilbertown)
The Arab Tribune
Division D
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Wetumpka Herald
The Tallassee Tribune
Madison County Record
Division E
1st place
The Redstone Rocket (Huntsville)
Category 6 — Best Local Education Coverage
Division A
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Montgomery Advertiser
The Birmingham News
The Huntsville Times
Division B
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Cullman Times
The News Courier (Athens)
The Outlook (Alexander City)
Division C
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Choctaw Sun-Advocate (Gilbertown)
The Arab Tribune
Call News (Citronelle)
Division D
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Demopolis Times
The Eufaula Tribune
The Southeast Sun (Enterprise)
Category 7 — Best Local News Coverage
Division A
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Huntsville Times
Montgomery Advertiser
Press-Register (Mobile)
Division B
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Cullman Times
The Fort Payne Times-Journal
The Daily Mountain Eagle (Jasper)
Division C
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Call News (Citronelle)
The Monroe Journal (Monroeville)
The Arab Tribune
Division D
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Wetumpka Herald
The Record (Dadeville)
Washington County News (Chatom)
Division E
1st place
Madison Weekly News
Category 8 — Best Use of Photographs/Editorial Content
Division A
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Anniston Star
The Decatur Daily
The Tuscaloosa News
Division B
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Selma Times-Journal
The Fort Payne Times-Journal
The Clanton Advertiser
Division C
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Citizen of East Alabama (Phenix City)
The Monroe Journal (Monroeville)
The Arab Tribune
Division D
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Southeast Sun (Enterprise)
Washington County News (Chatom)
The Lowndes Signal (Fort Deposit)
Division E
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
280 Living (Birmingham)
The Redstone Rocket (Huntsville)
The Homewood Star
Category 9 — Best Spot News Story
Division A
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Division B
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Division C
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Division D
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Press-Register (Mobile) for “Airbus has Landed!” by George Talbot
The Anniston Star for “Depot to lay off 500” by Laura Camper, Tim Lockette &
Patrick McCreless
TimesDaily (Florence) for “Volunteer firefighter killed trying to save own family
from blaze” by Tom Smith
The Opelika-Auburn News for “Police hunting for suspect” by Donathan Prater
The Messenger (Troy) for “Pike County weathers storm” by Robbyn Brooks &
Jane Treadwell
The Selma Times-Journal for “We’re soaked” by staff
The Citizen of East Alabama (Phenix City) for “Growth on Moon Lake has
citizen ‘distraught’” by Katherine Haas
The Arab Tribune for “Fire streak continues: Grassy house destroyed” by David
Moore
The Monroe Journal (Monroeville) for “Beatrice landmark burns” by Josh
Dewberry
The Southeast Sun (Enterprise) for “3 dead in nightclub shooting” by Carly
Omenhiser
The Demopolis Times for “Christmas tornadoes damage homes, uproot trees” by
Brittney Knox
Washington County News (Chatom) for “Wagarville couple remains jailed for
child sex crimes” by Willie Gray
Category 10 — Best In-Depth News Coverage
Division A
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
TimesDaily (Florence) for April 27 Tornado continuing coverage by news staff
Montgomery Advertiser for “Senate spending” by Sebastian Kitchen
The Anniston Star for “Courts & Rehab” coverage by Cameron Steele
Division B
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Division C
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Division D
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Division E
1st place
The Opelika-Auburn News for 1967 Seibold slayings parole coverage by Joe
McAdory
The Outlook (Alexander City) for Eagle Creek tornado coverage by staff
The Clanton Advertiser for Chilton Medical Center coverage by staff
Birmingham Business Journal for Foreclosure law coverage by Ryan Poe &
Antrenise Cole
The Arab Tribune for Howard Hawk coverage by staff
Birmingham Business Journal for “The high cost of Con” by Evan Belanger
The Atmore Advance for Escambia County vs. Poarch Creek Indians case
coverage by Blake Bell & Lisa Tindell
Sumter County Record-Journal (Livingston) for Commission pay raise coverage
by Herman Ward
The Brewton Standard for Brewton Animal Control & Adoption Center coverage
by staff
The Post (Centre) for Cherokee County Commission sewage ordinance coverage
by Scott Wright
Category 11 — Best Business Story or Column
Division A
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Division B
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Division C
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Division D
1st place
The Huntsville Times for “Who’s raking in the cash?” by Steve Doyle
The Birmingham News for “Birmingham banking scene radically changed in last
decade” by Russell Hubbard
The Huntsville Times for “What could’ve been: Space City” by Deborah Storey
The Cullman Times for “‘A new start’” by Trent Moore
The News Courier (Athens) for “Carpenter signals beginning here” by Adam
Smith
The Daily Home (Talladega) for “Logging is long hours, hard work” by David
Atchison
The Choctaw Sun-Advocate (Gilbertown) for “Black Gold again?” by Dee Ann
Campbell
Birmingham Business Journal for “Blue Cross loses market share, not
dominance” by Evan Belanger
Call News (Citronelle) for “Future of steel” by Frances Coleman
The Southeast Sun (Enterprise) for “License proves to be ‘risky business’” by
Carly Omenhiser
2nd place
3rd place
Division E
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Atmore Advance for “West Ridgeley on the rise” by Erich Hillkert
Auburn Villager for “City officials defend business incentives plan” by Daniel
Chesser
The Franklin Free Press (Russellville) for “Plant workers speak out with union
vote” by John Pilati
The Franklin Free Press (Russellville) for “Loving, giving, serving” by John Pilati
The Hoover Sun for “Brick Alley Bicycles” by Rebecca Walden
Category 12 — Best Feature Story Coverage
Division A
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Division B
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Division C
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Division D
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Division E
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
TimesDaily (Florence) for “Siege at Chosin Reservoir creates bond of
brotherhood for survivors” by Bernie Delinski
The Anniston Star for “Southern Flight 242” by Eddie Burkhalter
The Huntsville Times for “What could’ve been: Space City” by Deborah Storey
The Daily Sentinel (Scottsboro) for “Center of controversy” by Dewayne
Patterson
The Clanton Advertiser for “Hope after hurt” by Emily Beckett
The Clanton Advertiser for “Night of terror” by Justin Averette
Shelby County Reporter (Columbiana) for “Living with a lost mind” by Katie
McDowell
The Choctaw Sun-Advocate (Gilbertown) for “‘For however long it takes…’” by
Dee Ann Campbell
The Arab Tribune for “Man builds railroad at his house” by David Moore
The Moulton Advertiser for “It started with a gentle tummy rub” by Ginger
Grantham
The Piedmont Journal for “David Studdard waits for wife to recover, home ready
for her return” by Eddie Burkhalter
The Franklin County Times (Russellville) for “Beating the odds” by Kellie
Singleton
280 Living (Birmingham) for “And then there were nine” by Madoline Markham
280 Living (Birmingham) for “Raising up change in Uganda” by Madoline
Markham
The Redstone Rocket (Huntsville) for “Lasting memorial for Matt Dahl” by Kari
Hawkins
Category 13 — Best News Feature Story Coverage
Division A
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Division B
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Division C
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Division D
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Division E
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Decatur Daily for “Concussions” by Deangelo McDaniel
The Huntsville Times for “132 miles of destruction: Revisited” by Challen
Stephens
The Birmingham News for “‘A day that will go down in state history’” by Mike
Oliver
The Fort Payne Times-Journal for “Gay in DeKalb” series by Lindsay Slater
The Opelika-Auburn News for “A lasting legacy” by Chris Anthony
The Selma Times-Journal for “In focus: Dallas county constables” by Ashley
Johnson
The Arab Tribune for “Lt. Col. Mary Ewing home, home at last” by David
Moore
The Choctaw Sun-Advocate (Gilbertown) for “Bullies still bully, and kids like
Devin suffer” by Dee Ann Campbell
Call News (Citronelle) for “Medicaid divisions run deep” by Hannah Garcia
The Southeast Sun (Enterprise) for “Remorseful” by Carly Omenhiser
The Dadeville Record for “Despite home’s destruction, Berrys are thankful” by
Virginia Spears
The Clay Times-Journal (Lineville) for “‘We’re just glad to be alive!’” by Ray
Stansell
The Homewood Star for “Rebirth of an heirloom gardening legacy” by Rick
Watson
Village Living (Birmingham) for “Generations of Greek” by Madoline Markham
The Hoover Sun for “Mall makeover” by Rebecca Walden
Category 14 — Best Editorial
Division A
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Division B
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Division C
1st place
The Anniston Star for “Montgomery meltdown” by Bob Davis
The Huntsville Times for “Justice served for Amy Bishop” by John Peck
The Birmingham News for “Dramatic collapse” by Joey Kennedy
The Cullman Times for “Weapons we don’t need” by David Palmer
The Cullman Times for “What about the ‘muffin tops?’” by David Palmer
The Fort Payne Times-Journal for “What does Miller have to hide?” by David
Clemons, Jared Felkins & Lew Gilliland
The Arab Tribune for “We think it’s time for Masters to resign” by Charles
Whisenant
2nd place
3rd place
Division D
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Shelby County Reporter (Columbiana) for “Saving lives comes before making
money” by Amy Jones
The Arab Tribune for “Will the Supreme Court see open meetings light?” by
David Moore
The Luverne Journal for “Don’t vote on what doesn’t concern you” by Michael
Rodgers
The Brewton Standard for “BEO had to follow rules” by Kerry Whipple Bean
The Atmore Advance for “Schools make right decision on queens” by staff
Category 15 — Best Humorous Column
Division A
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Division B
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Division C
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Division D
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Division E
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Anniston Star for “Where there’s a smoke alarm” by Lisa Davis
The Huntsville Times for “Try your hand as a professional snuggler or… a face
slappist?” by Kelly Kazek
The Birmingham News for “For Beef of the Chiefs, check the tale of the quips”
by John Archibald
The Andalusia Star-News for “Thongs, boys’ eyeliner and teens” by Stephanie
Nelson
The Daily Mountain Eagle (Jasper) for “Wiffle balls not meant for fingers” by
James Phillips
The Daily Sentinel (Scottsboro) for “The real advice for graduates” by Dewayne
Patterson
The Arab Tribune for “Black Friday provides crock pot full of thrills” by Charles
Whisenant
The Choctaw Sun-Advocate (Gilbertown) for “About that ‘fear no evil’ thing” by
Dee Ann Campbell
Call News (Citronelle) for “New York City: A survivor’s guide” by Emmett
Burnett
The Moulton Advertiser for “State is No. 4 in cuddliness, not obesity” by Jason
Houston
The Moulton Advertiser for “Going hunting for a bargain” by Jason Houston
The Greenville Advocate for “Tooth is gone, nightmares remain” by Andy Brown
The Franklin Free Press (Russellville) for “‘But it’s a really good deal…’” by
John Pilati
The Post (Centre) for “Hot to bathe a cat” by Tim Sanders
The Franklin Free Press (Russellville) for “Debates won’t change any minds” by
John Pilati
Category 16 — Best Human Interest Column
Division A
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Division B
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Division C
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Division D
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Division E
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Huntsville Times for “‘I am about to give up on life’” by Crystal Bonvillian
The Birmingham News for “Chihuahua’s trek more than missing dog story” by
John Archibald
The Decatur Daily for “Is ‘Star Wars’ without Lucas still ‘Star Wars?’” by
Franklin Harris
The Opelika-Auburn News for “A full heart, broken” by Mike Szvetitz
The Outlook (Alexander City) for “Pocket squares evoke dear memories” by
Kenneth Boone
The Andalusia Star-News for “Vets deserve exemplary care” by Stephanie Nelson
The Choctaw Sun-Advocate (Gilbertown) for “It’s my song now, Rocky” by Dee
Ann Campbell
The Choctaw Sun-Advocate (Gilbertown) for “Memories of yeast rolls and a
brand new Sunday hat” by Dee Ann Campbell
The Choctaw Sun-Advocate (Gilbertown) for “Thoreau may have been on to
something” by Tommy Campbell
The Greenville Advocate for “Kimbro turns adversity to triumph” by Andy
Brown
The Eclectic Observer for “Alabamians’ resurgent spirit unquestionable” by
David Goodwin
The Opelika Observer for “An open letter to whomever broke into my house
Sunday” by Cliff McCollumn
The Franklin Free Press (Russellville) for “Seay enjoyed life to the fullest” by
John Pilati
Village Living (Birmingham) for “The deep end of love” by Kari Kampakis
280 Living (Birmingham) for “Blackie” by Rick Watson
Category 17 — Best Editorial Column or Commentary
Division A
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Birmingham News for “A memorandum from the lawyer of God to a
politician” by John Archibald
Montgomery Advertiser for “Let’s break it down: Obamacare not all bad” by Josh
Moon
The Decatur Daily for “Bring me the head of George W. Bush; feigned outrage
strikes again” by Franklin Harris
Division B
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Division C
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Division D
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Division E
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Outlook (Alexander City) for “BUI, DUI should be treated equally” by
Austin Nelson
The Fort Payne Times-Journal for “Time to leash dog issue” by David Clemons
The Daily Mountain Eagle (Jasper) for “Home instruction should remain in
zoning ordinance” by James Phillips
The Choctaw Sun-Advocate (Gilbertown) for “The truth about their disease” by
Dee Ann Campbell
The Choctaw Sun-Advocate (Gilbertown) for “Will we be left asking why?” by
Dee Ann Campbell
The Arab Tribune for “Politics in the pulpit lowers religion to secular level” by
Daniel Schenker
Opelika Observer for “‘Redneckognizing’ the problem” by Cliff McCollum
The Dadeville Record for “Immigration, welfare tied together” by Roger Steele
The Demopolis Times for “Deafening and expensive silence” by Jeremy Smith
The Franklin Free Press (Russellville) for “Change is needed at Pilgrim’s” by
John Pilati
The Post (Centre) for “Most in GOP can’t admit they were wrong on
immigration” by Scott Wright
The Franklin Free Press (Russellville) for “Judge shouldn’t hide opinion” by John
Pilati
Category 18 — Best Sports News In-Depth Coverage
Division A
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Division B
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Division C
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Press-Register (Mobile) for Bryant-Jordan Scholarship coverage by Josh Bean
The Anniston Star for “‘Cream of the crop’” by Al Muskewitz
Montgomery Advertiser for Iron Bowl coverage by Brad Zimaner & sports staff
The Opelika-Auburn News for “Female coach wanted to lead Hornets” by Mike
Szvetitz
The Fort Payne Times-Journal for “Putting the pieces back together” by Lew
Gilliland
The Opelika-Auburn News for “The $7.5M question” by Ryan Wood
Shelby County Reporter (Columbiana) for “Cost of chasing a scholarship worth
it?” by Wesley Hallman
Call News (Citronelle) for “Prep brawl” by Jimmy Wigfield
The Choctaw Sun-Advocate (Gilbertown) for “Vacation Tragedy” by Tommy
Campbell
Division D
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Division E
1st place
2nd place
The Eufaula Tribune for youth sports safety coverage by Patrick Johnston
Washington County News (Chatom) for “Leroy, Choctaw players suspended” by
Jimmy Wigfield
The Demopolis Times for Linden Athletic Field coverage by staff
Madison Weekly News for “Football’s Unsung Hero: The Long Snapper” by Bob
Labbe
The Franklin Free Press (Russellville) for “Heaps sees great potential for RHS
baseball program” by Mike Self
Category 19 — Best Sports Single Event Story
Division A
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Division B
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Division C
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Division D
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Division E
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Tuscaloosa News for “In the dugout” by Tommy Deas
TimesDaily (Florence) for “Flame savor three-peat” by Jeff McIntyre
Montgomery Advertiser for “Crowning moment” by A. Stacy Long
The Opelika-Auburn News for “Chizik becomes 1st coach fired within 2 years of
national title” by Ryan Wood
The Cullman Times for “4 for Andrew” by Rob Ketcham
The News Courier (Athens) for “Title Town” by Kim West
The Southern Star (Ozark) for “Carroll says goodbye coach” by Charlie Dawkins
The Choctaw Sun-Advocate (Gilbertown) for “Football brawl” by Tommy
Campbell
Shelby County Reporter (Columbiana) for “Chargers wrap up sixth title” by
Wesley Hallman
The Courier (Fairhope) for “Toro Trio” by Tony Whitehead
The Eufaula Tribune for “Season of change?” by Patrick Johnston
The Eufaula Tribune for “Valiant effort falls short” by Patrick Johnston
The Franklin Free Press (Russellville) for “Montgomery bound” by Mike Self
The Franklin Free Press (Russellville) for “Talk of the town” by Mike Self
The Franklin Free Press (Russellville) for “Russellville offense springs to life just
in time” by Mike Self
Category 20 — Best Sports Feature Story
Division A
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Birmingham News for “The spread of spice” by Kevin Scarbinsky
The Decatur Daily for “Faith of their fathers” by Bayne Hughes
The Tuscaloosa News for “Unlimited Inspiration” by Andrew Carroll
Division B
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Opelika-Auburn News for “Defining Courage” by Ryan Wood
The Andalusia Star-News for “He’s a survivor” by Andrew Garner
The Daily Sentinel (Scottsboro) for “Unbreakable Bond” by Jason Bowen
Division C
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Arab Tribune for “Grown men cried that night” by Mike Tankersley
Call News (Citronelle) for “Total Package” by Arthur Mack
The Arab Tribune for “It’s back…” by Archie Anderson
Division D
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Atmore Advance for “Balancing Act” by Chandler Myers
The Eufaula Tribune for “’85 All-Stars made Bluff City history’” by Patrick
Johnston
The Atmore Advance for “Birmingham Bound!” by Chandler Myers
Division E
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Madison Weekly News for “A Test of Faith” by Bob Labbe
The Franklin Free Press (Russellville) for “Past and present” by Mike Self
280 Living (Birmingham) for “A Tiger in the Lions den” by Rick Watson
Category 21 — Best Local Sports Column
Division A
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Division B
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Division C
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Division D
1st place
The Tuscaloosa News for “Bama a force of nature, but it’s not perfect, yet” by
Cecil Hurt
The Birmingham News for “Is Malzahn strong enough to change Auburn for
better?” by Kevin Scarbinsky
The Tuscaloosa News for “Newspaper cuts a loss for everyone” by Cecil Hurt
The Opelika-Auburn News for “Remembering April 27 an important act” by
Jason Galloway
The Selma Times-Journal for “Court Date?” by Robert Hudson
The Outlook (Alexander City) for “Football doesn’t have to change, protection
does” by J.D. Cowart
The Choctaw Sun-Advocate (Gilbertown) for “The rose in the thorns” by Dee
Ann Campbell
Shelby County Reporter (Columbiana) for “Bulldogs sweep in playoff opener” by
Wesley Hallman
The Monroe Journal (Monroeville) for “Enforce rule or shut up!” by Mike Qualls
Auburn Villager for “Something must be done about AU football” by Rachel
Morand
2nd place
3rd place
Division E
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Demopolis Times for “Living, loving life with a high motor” by Jeremy D.
Smith
The Eufaula Tribune for “Writer bemoans wife’s brilliant bracket picks” by
Patrick Johnston
Madison Weekly News for “Margaret Hoelzer: A typical Southern girl with a
very exceptional story” by Bob Labbe
The Franklin Free Press (Russellville) for “Gifted guards taking over Franklin
County” by Mike Self
Madison Weekly News for “Liberty defeats Hartselle to claim North Alabama
championship” by Bob Labbe
Category 22 — Best Feature Photo
Division A
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Division B
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Division C
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Division D
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Division E
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Anniston Star for “Meet the co-grand marshals of this year’s Veterans Day
parade” by Stephen Gross
The Decatur Daily for “Nothing like a tire swing” by John Godbey
The Birmingham News for “Chilton County crosstie plant picks up steam” by
Bernard Troncale
The News Courier (Athens) for “‘My hero’” by Edd Davis
The Opelika-Auburn News for “The definition of courage” by Vasha Hunt
The Clanton Advertiser for “Sing out” by Stephen Dawkins
The Monroe Journal (Monroeville) for “Remembering our Fallen” by Josh
Dewberry
The Citizen of East Alabama (Phenix City) for “Soldiers deploy” by Katherine
Haas
Shelby County Reporter (Columbiana) for “Off the chain” by Kreable Young
The Luverne Journal for “Profile 2012” by Michael Rodgers
The Luverne Journal for “Festival at the well” by Michael Rodgers
The Islander (Gulf Shores) for “Coastal Christmas Spotlight” by Michelle Carroll
Stancil
The Redstone Rocket (Huntsville) for “Families stay cool with pool play at
Redstone” by Ellen Hudson
The Redstone Rocket (Huntsville) for “Cheers for military children” by Ellen
Hudson
The Redstone Rocket (Huntsville) for “Celebrating our armed forces” by Ellen
Hudson
Category 23 — Best News Photo
Division A
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Division B
1st place
TimesDaily (Florence) for “Changed Forever” by Matt McKean
The Decatur Daily for “Behind the lens” by Gary Cosby Jr.
The Anniston Star for “Freedom Riders bus, 1961, Anniston” by Stephen Gross
3rd place
The Opelika-Auburn News for “Ex-AU player Goodwin sentenced to 15 years”
by Vasha Hunt
The Cullman Times for “20 years later, officials finally break ground on Duck
River Dam” by Amanda Shavers-Davis
The Selma Times-Journal for “Hug of support” by Tim Reeves
Division C
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Monroe Journal (Monroeville) for “Rocking and reeling” by Josh Dewberry
The Arab Tribune for “Lt. Col. Mary Ewing home, home at last” by David Moore
The Monroe Journal (Monroeville) for “Firing it up” by Josh Dewberry
2nd place
Division D
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Jacksonville News for “Community comes out for Sgt. Ben Tomlinson’s
return” by Anita Kilgore
The Tallassee Tribune for “Splish, Splash” by Lauren Newman
The Wetumpka Herald for “Hundreds Honor Collar” by Kevin Taylor
Category 24 — Best Spot News Photo
Division A
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Division B
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Division C
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Division D
1st place
The Decatur Daily for “Twisters hit again” by Gary Cosby, Jr.
TimesDaily (Florence) for “Water, water everywhere” by Matt McKean
TimesDaily (Florence) for “No one injured in standoff” by Jim Hannon
The Fort Payne Times-Journal for “‘I’m Sorry’” by Melissa Smith
The Outlook (Alexander City) for “Truck takes out guard rails” by Kenneth
Boone
The Opelika-Auburn News for “Welcome back?” by Laura Chramer
The Choctaw Sun-Advocate (Gilbertown) for “Shotgun attack” by Tommy
Campbell
The Monroe Journal (Monroeville) for “Raging flames” by Josh Dewberry
The Tri-City Ledger (Flomaton) for “Family loses everything in fire” by Joe
Thomas
The Wilcox Progressive Era (Camden) for “Wreck on highway” by Mark Curl
2nd place
3rd place
Opelika Observer for “‘Rocky Brook Rocket’ accident injures young girl” by
Robert Noles
The Clay Times-Journal (Lineville) for “Sawdust fire at Tru-Wood” by Justin
McCullers
Category 25 — Best Sports Photo
Division A
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Anniston Star for “Sammie Coates” by Stephen Gross
The Huntsville Times for “Tuesday Muddy Tuesday” by Bob Gathany
The Tuscaloosa News for “Crimson Storm” by Robert Sutton
Division B
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Opelika-Auburn News for “Just not enough” by Vasha Hunt
The Outlook (Alexander City) for “Rodeo!” by Kenneth Boone
The Gadsden Times for “Tide” by Nick Johnston
Division C
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Shelby County Reporter (Columbiana) for “Journey ends short of title” by Jon
Goering
The Choctaw Sun-Advocate (Gilbertown) for “Saints turn Sumter upside down”
by Mickey Bryant
The Citizen of East Alabama (Phenix City) for “Masters Water Ski & Wakeboard
Tournament” by Denise DuBois
Division D
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Washington County News (Chatom) for “Bear Arms” by Bruce Hansen
The Eufaula Tribune for “Too tough for Tigers” by Patrick Johnston
The Independent (Robertsdale) for “Classic collision course” by Eric Mann
Division E
1st place
Madison Weekly News for “The Brenton” by Jeff Abbott
Category 26 — Best Photo Essay
Division A
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Division B
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Division C
1st place
The Huntsville Times for “Sugar and spice? Think again.” by Eric Schultz
The Tuscaloosa News for “Baseball’s Best” by Dusty Compton
Montgomery Advertiser for “‘There’s a reason I’m still here’” by Mickey Welsh
The Clanton Advertiser for “Future flyer” by Justin Averette
The Selma Times-Journal for “Lights & Sounds” by Sarah Cook & Tim Reeves
The Daily Home (Talladega) for “Hugh O’Neal makes tiny creatures look
lifelike” by Bob Crisp
Shelby County Reporter (Columbiana) for “Season-ending sting” by Jon Goering
2nd place
3rd place
Division D
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Division E
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Shelby County Reporter (Columbiana) for “Bull riding band” by Jon Goering
The Monroe Journal (Monroeville) for “Wounded Warrior honored” by Mike
Qualls
The Greenville Advocate for “Cirque 2012” by Andy Brown
Hartselle Enquirer for “Time to celebrate” by staff
The Southeast Sun (Enterprise) for “Fans jam out at BamaJam” by Laura Fezie,
Carly Omenhiser, Kim Lewis & Jason Johnson
The Homewood Star for “Summer Fun Photos Contest Winners!” by staff
The Redstone Rocket (Huntsville) for “Heroes week & Veterans Day” by Ellen
Hudson
Village Living (Birmingham) for “Summer Fun Photo Contest Winners!” by staff
Category 27 — Best Use of Graphics or Illustrations
Division A
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Division B
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Anniston Star for “Ghost Writers” by AnnaMaria Jacob
The Decatur Daily for “The top 5 players” by Kristin Williams
The Tuscaloosa News for “Handling the Heat” by Anthony Bratina
The Opelika-Auburn News for “Hometown success” by staff
The Selma Times-Journal for “It’s an explosion of art” by Katie Wood
The Outlook (Alexander City) for “Battle on the Bayou” by J.D. Cowart & Audra
Spears
Division C
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Tri-City Ledger (Flomaton) for “Jay Peanut Festival” by Janet Cooper
Birmingham Business Journal for “Top 40 Under 40” by Derek Morrow
The Arab Tribune for “Bravery & Sacrifice” by Sheila McAnear
Division D
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Dadeville Record for “Go Tigers” by staff
Washington County News (Chatom) for “A Triumphant Trio” by staff
The Greenville Advocate for “Holy infestation, Batman” by Andy Brown
Category 28 — Best Headline
Division A
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Tuscaloosa News for “It’s always App-y hour” by Ken Roberts
The Decatur Daily for “Tweet home Alabama” by Mike Wetzel
Montgomery Advertiser for “Welcome back, Trotter!” by Gary Goodson
Division B
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Division C
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Division D
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Division E
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Outlook (Alexander City) for “Rights of way wrong for signs” by Austin
Nelson & Virginia Spears
The News Courier (Athens) for “The elephant in the room” by Adam Smith
The Andalusia Star-News for “City: Dam those beavers” by staff
The Tri-City Ledger (Flomaton) for “W82TXT” by Janet Little Cooper
The Arab Tribune for “Banking on a gallery” by David Moore
The Citizen of East Alabama (Phenix City) for “Police pursue perpetrator in pit
bull puppy pilfer attempt” by Katherine Haas
The Greenville Advocate for “Holy infestation, Batman” by Andy Brown
The Lowndes Signal (Fort Deposit) for “Not so silent night” by Fred Guarino
The Demopolis Times for “Kickin’ bass & taking names” by staff
280 Living (Birmingham) for “And then there were nine” by Madoline Markham
280 Living (Birmingham) for “Vivid livery flourishes on vocab day” by Jeff
Thompson
The Franklin Free Press (Russellville) for “Talk of the town” by Mike Self
Category 29 — Best Special Section
Division A
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Division B
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Division C
1st place
The Huntsville Times for Wernher Von Braun section by staff
The Birmingham News for Triumph! section by sports staff
The Decatur Daily for “‘We’re OK.’” section by photo staff
The Selma Times-Journal for “Letters from Home” section by staff
The Gadsden Times for “Kickoff” section by Kim Craft, Nick Johnston & J.J.
Hicks
The Clanton Advertiser for “A Story to Tell” section by staff
2nd place
3rd place
Shelby County Reporter (Columbiana) for Shelby County Football section by
staff
Shelby County Reporter (Columbiana) for Profile 2012 section by staff
The Citizen of East Alabama (Phenix City) for 2012 Football Guide by staff
Division D
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Moulton Advertiser for “Pride” section by staff
The Southeast Sun (Enterprise) for 2012 Football Preview by staff
The Southeast Sun (Enterprise) for Fort Rucker Appreciation section by staff
Division E
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Madison Weekly News for 2012 Football Preview by Sirvell Carter
The Redstone Rocket (Huntsville) for 60th Commemorative Edition by Skip
Vaughn, Kelley Sivley & Rhonda Stennett
Madison Weekly News for 2012 Holiday Event Guide by John Few
Category 30 — Best Niche Publication
Division A
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Birmingham News for “1963” book by Barnett Wright
The Anniston Star for Calhoun County Business magazine by staff
The Tuscaloosa News for Tuscaloosa Magazine: Wedding Belles by Robert
Sutton & staff
Division B
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Gadsden Times for Gadsden Style magazine: L.A. Girl by staff
The Selma Times-Journal for Spanish Moss Magazine by staff
The Outlook (Alexander City) for Lake Martin Living Magazine by staff
Division C
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Shelby County Reporter (Columbiana) for Shelby Living magazine by staff
Shelby County Reporter (Columbiana) for H Life magazine by staff
The Arab Tribune for Arab Alabama magazine by staff
Division D
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Wetumpka Herald for Elmore County Living magazine by staff
The Hartselle Enquirer for Our Time: A Championship Season by staff
The Greenville Advocate for Camellia Magazine: Fall 2012 by staff
Division E
1st place
The Courier-Journal (Florence) for “Kidsville News!” by staff
Alabama Press Association
2013 Web Contest Winners
Category 1 – General Web Excellence
Division A
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Huntsville Times
Montgomery Advertiser
The Tuscaloosa News
Division B
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Opelika-Auburn News
The Cullman Times
The Clanton Advertiser
Division C
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Birmingham Business Journal
Shelby County Reporter (Columbiana)
The Monroe Journal (Monroeville)
Division D
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Hartselle Enquirer
The Greenville Advocate
Madison County Record
Division E
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Redstone Rocket (Huntsville)
Courier Journal (Florence)
Madison Weekly News
Category 2 – Creative Use of Multimedia
Division A
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Montgomery Advertiser
The Decatur Daily
TimesDaily (Florence)
Division B
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Opelika-Auburn News
The Opelika-Auburn News
The Cullman Times
Division C
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Birmingham Business Journal
Shelby County Reporter (Columbiana)
Shelby County Reporter (Columbiana)
Division D
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Hartselle Enquirer
The Moulton Advertiser
The Moulton Advertiser
Division E
1st place
The Redstone Rocket (Huntsville)
Category 3 – Online Breaking News Coverage
Division A
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Huntsville Times
Montgomery Advertiser
TimesDaily (Florence)
Division B
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Clanton Advertiser
The Opelika-Auburn News
The Opelika-Auburn News
Division C
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Shelby County Reporter (Columbiana)
Shelby County Reporter (Columbiana)
Birmingham Business Journal
Division D
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Moulton Advertiser
Madison County Record
The Greenville Advocate
Category 4 – Continuing Web Coverage
Division A
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Montgomery Advertiser for coverage of grade changing probe
The Huntsville Times for tornado coverage
The Decatur Daily for Data Central
Division B
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Opelika-Auburn News for University Heights Shooting
The Clanton Advertiser for tornado coverage
The Clanton Advertiser for hospital closure coverage
Division C
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Shelby County Reporter (Columbiana) for coverage of teacher molestation
charges
Birmingham Business Journal for rate increase coverage
Shelby County Reporter (Columbiana) for coverage of mold situation in an
elementary school
Division D
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Moulton Advertiser for Chief Deputy Knighten indictment coverage
The Moulton Advertiser for death of Coroner Micah Coffee coverage
Madison County Record for coverage of Madison Hospital opening
Division E
1st place
The Redstone Rocket (Huntsville) for Technology Today
Category 5 – Best Presentation of Online Advertising
Division A
1st place
2nd place (tie)
2nd place (tie)
The Tuscaloosa News
TimesDaily (Florence)
The Decatur Daily
Division B
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Clanton Advertiser
The Opelika-Auburn News
The Cullman Times
Division C
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Shelby County Reporter (Columbiana)
Birmingham Business Journal
The Monroe Journal
Division D
1st place
2nd place (tie)
2nd place (tie)
3rd place
Madison County Record
Hartselle Enquirer
The Moulton Advertiser
The Greenville Advocate
Division E
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Madison Weekly News
Courier Journal (Florence)
The Redstone Rocket (Huntsville)
Category 6 – Best Innovative Online Advertising – Single Ad
Division A
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Decatur Daily for Albany Bistro “Free Dessert” ad
The Decatur Daily for Albany Bistro “Foldout” ad
The Tuscaloosa News for Craig’s Corn Patch
Division B
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Cullman Times for Cokes & Smokes Tobacco Outlet ad
The Cullman Times for Cullman MMA Fight ad
The Opelika-Auburn News for East Alabama Arts ad
Division C
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Shelby County Reporter (Columbiana) for Treetop Family Adventure ad
Shelby County Reporter (Columbiana) for Nichols Outfitters ad
Shelby County Reporter (Columbiana) for Busy Hands Framing ad
Division D
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Madison County Record for Studio 180 ads
Hartselle Enquirer for Hartselle Eye Care ad
The Moulton Advertiser for Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce ad
Division E
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Madison Weekly News for Miller Insurance ad
Courier Journal (Florence) for Capstone Realty ad
Courier Journal (Florence) for Fowler Auction ad
Category 7 – Best Online Advertising Campaign
Division A
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Decatur Daily for Albany Bistro “Sunday Supper” campaign
The Decatur Daily for Albany Bistro “Free Dessert” campaign
The Decatur Daily for Cedar Ridge Golf Course campaign
Division B
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Opelika-Auburn News for Auburn CityFest campaign
The Opelika-Auburn News for Opelika Sportsplex campaign
The Opelika-Auburn News for Callaway Gardens campaign
Division C
1st place
Shelby County Reporter (Columbiana) for Treetop Adventure campaign
Division D
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Madison County Record for in-house classified campaign
Hartselle Enquirer for Hartselle Eye Care campaign
The Moulton Advertiser for Lawrence County Chamber campaign
Category 8 – Online Revenue Builder
Division A
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
TimesDaily (Florence) for TNValleystuff.com
TimesDaily (Florence) for TNValleydeals.com
The Decatur Daily for TNValleywheels.com
Division B
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
The Cullman Times for SEC Digital Network
The Opelika-Auburn News for Readers’ Choice Awards
The Opelika-Auburn News for “Love 4 Mom” text campaign
Division C
1st place
Shelby County Reporter (Columbiana) for Facebook campaign
Division D
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Madison County Record for in-house classified campaign
Hartselle Enquirer for “News at Noon” campaign
Madison County Record for “Lock, Stock, Barrel” campaign