Winners' info with judges' comments and info on SCPA's top honors -- our journalists of the year and Montgomery FOI winners!

1. 2011 SCPA News Contest Winners • 1
2011 News Contest
Award Winners
RECOGNIZING THE BEST IN S.C. NEWSPAPER JOURNALISM
First Place and Best of the Best Spot News Photo: George Salsberry, The Press & Standard, Church Fire First Place Feature Photo: Gwinn Davis, Tribune-Times, Fun in Snow
Honorable Mention Feature Photo: Grace Second Place General News Photo: Tim Dominick, The State, Difficult Deployment
Beahm, The Post and Courier, Street Surfer

2. 2 • 2011 SCPA News Contest Winners
JOURNALIST REID MONTGOMERY FREEDOM OF INFORMATION AWARD
OF THE
YEAR AWARD
State story, which ended with state legislators calling for an
Daily Division investigation. Her work was also supplemented with
editorials hammering away for reform.
Renee Dudley
The Post and Courier
Daily Division
Renee Dudley joined The Post and Courier in 2010 as a health reporter. Before First Place Daily Division
that, she was a reporter for The Boston Herald and The (Hilton Head) Island
Packet. Dudley has won honors from the The Post and Courier Second Place
New England and South Carolina Press
Associations for public service and in- This year’s FOI Award winner — The Post and Courier The Item
depth, enterprise, health and government — stood out in what was one of the strongest pool of
reporting. In 2010, she received the entries ever entered. The Item in
Eugene S. Pulliam Award from the Society The Charleston daily was unanimously chosen because Sumter is recognized
of Professional Journalists for her work of its long battle all the way to the S.C. Supreme Court to as second place winner for its outstanding job reporting on
defending the First Amendment. She keep a Lowcountry school board from evading the FOIA an officer-related shooting, where police secrecy kept the
graduated from Boston University, where by having their lawyer handle a superintendent evaluation public in the dark about the details, and even who was
she studied international relations, and then refusing to release the results claiming attorney- involved, in the fatal shooting of a 25-year-old man. It
journalism and French. client privilege. This case had enormous statewide started as police blocked off a large section of the road
Judges’ comments: Renee Dudley’s ramifications and the newspaper stepped up to the where the shooting happened to keep the public and press
reporting exposes wrongdoing, challenges challenge to force public accountability. Their courtroom at a distance. They then withheld the names of the officers,
powerful people and changes lives. She efforts bolstered their outstanding coverage of the case. citing an unspecified threat. The abuse of the FOIA
took on the governor, a large insurance The newspaper also used the FOI successfully in stories continued for months as police refused to say how many
company and the area’s largest hospitals. about financial issues at S.C. State University , and in other times the man was shot and where he was struck. Names
Dudley
The results of her work led to accountability stories involving the office of the governor, were omitted from incident reports. To top it off, the
investigations, changed policies, better care of taxpayer money and better care for SLED, The Citadel and the town of Summerville . coroner refused to release the autopsy report, claiming it
ill patients. By any standard, she had an extraordinary year as a journalist. And Reporter Diane Knich did an outstanding job in the S.C. was a health care record. The Item has filed suit in the case.
all South Carolinians benefitted from her work.
Fairfield County’s Newspaper Since 1844
Cincotta undertook extensive
Weekly Division Weekly Division
First Place
The Herald Independent research into the company’s
Corey Hutchins www.heraldindependent.com
origins, obtaining records from
various state agencies showing that
Free Times The Herald-Independent the board is a public body.
Corey Hutchins is a staff writer at the Columbia Free Times covering South Nevertheless, the Board maintains its position that it is
Carolina politics and was a 2008 recipient of the S.C. Press Association’s award for Jill Cincotta not a public body so The Herald-Independent has files
in-depth reporting. His work in 2011 This was a fine example of dogged reporting, smart
criminal charges against the board members. The board has
appeared on the cover of The Nation, in The tactics and persistence to overcome stonewalling and tells
requested a jury trial and the date of trial is still pending.
Huffington Post, The Daily Caller and in readers what they needed to know about this public
The Herald-Independent hopes to set a precedent in
The Texas Observer. Hutchins helped cover bodies’ efforts to circumvent the FOIA.
South Carolina and send a message to those who seek to
the 2012 GOP presidential primary in Cincotta worked tirelessly, and in the face of
circumnavigate the law and conduct public business in
South Carolina as part of the CBS News tremendous resistance, to provide the public with valuable
secret – the message is simple: The public is watching, and
National Decision Desk. He is the Palmetto insight into the day-to-day operations of the Jenkinsville
the public will not tolerate backroom politics.
State’s lead researcher on the State Integrity Water Company and its board.
Investigation at the Center for Public
Integrity in Washington, D.C. His graphic JUDSON CHAPMAN AWARD FOR PUBLIC SERVICE
novel about Alvin Greene, The Accidental
Candidate, comes out this spring. Hutchins First Second
earned a journalism degree in 2002 from The State The Post and Courier
the State University of New York at
Morrisville and a degree in literature in
Cindi Ross Scoppe Doug Pardue
2006 from the University of South Carolina. Hutchins Secessionists Were Clear The Price of Living
Judges’ comments: The breadth, depth, Judges’ comments: There were many really excellent entries
and remarkable impact statewide of Corey Hutchins investigative journalism for this award. But, the “wow!” factor of this one is unsur-
makes him the compelling choice for this honor. His investigative reporting on Lt. passed. Editor Mark Lett described the entry as “Simple, Third
Gov. Ken Ard broke the story of improper campaign spending, leading to a Straight forward, Factual, Powerfully truthful.” To these we The Post and Courier
criminal investigation. He also was the first to break the story of the firing of would add: Yes! and courageous.
University of South Carolina board member Darla Moore. He has been a bulldog
Gene Sapakoff
reporter whose work has had an impact. As a weekly journalist, he excelled in Daddy Lessons
covering both state and local issues. His work is something to emulate.

3. 2011 SCPA News Contest Winners • 3
PHOTOJOURNALIST OF THE YEAR AWARD
Daily Division Weekly Division
Nathan Gray Tanya Ackerman
INDEPENDENT-MAIL COASTAL OBSERVER
Judges’ comments: Great eye for detail in composition. Judges’ comments: This photographer has a very good way of
Excellent use of unique camera angles grabs readers’ showing emotion. We love the feeling you get from looking at
attention. Good focus on emotional impact of subject her photos -- each tells its own story. Timing and color use are
matter. Assignments show a wide range of image types exceptional. Clean composition focuses readers’ eyes on point
well presented. of interest. A great year of work!
Gray Ackerman
CREDITS
The South Carolina Press Association and its members would like to thank the Index-Journal in Greenwood for printing this special publication. Thanks to the members of the Kentucky
Press Association who judged the 2011 News Contest.

4. 4 • 2011 SCPA News Contest Winners
Illustration
FIRST: Myrtle Beach Herald, Chris Mowder, Festive Fall
Judges’ Comments: Very creative, colorful collage of
images that immediately grabs the reader’s attention.
Well done!
SECOND: The Times and Democrat, Kristin Leigh Coker, 10
Years of Community Service
THIRD: Free Times, Wilbert T. Fields, Love Stinks
Informational Graphics Portfolio
FIRST: The Post and Courier, Chad Dunbar
Judges’ comments: These informational graphics are all
very colorful, creative, informative, and just fun to look
at. Very clean and easy to understand. Nicely done!
SECOND: The Greenville News, Suzie Riddle
THIRD: Myrtle Beach Herald, Chris Mowder
Single Online Photo
FIRST: The Greenville News, Heidi Heilbrunn, Shattered Glass
Judges’ comments: Cool photo! Unique moment caught.
Love your perspective.
First Place Single Online Photo: Heidi Heilbrunn, The Greenville News, Shattered Glass. SECOND: The Summerville Journal Scene, Paul Zoeller, 2011
Ultimate Challenge USMC Mud Run
THIRD: The Post and Courier, Grace Beahm, Confederate
Memorial Day
Open Division Online Column Writing
HONORABLE MENTION: The Summerville Journal Scene, Paul
Zoeller, Family Circle Cup
FIRST: The Sun News, Sunny Fry
Editorial or Column in Support Judges’ comments: Truly an enjoyable read. This column
was entertaining and insightful, well-written and
Innovative Concept
thought-provoking. FIRST: The Summerville Journal Scene, The Turtle Times
of FOI/Government Issues SECOND: Carolina Gateway, Reece Murphy
THIRD: Lake Wylie Pilot, John Marks
Judges’ comments: Awesome idea -- The staying power of
the newspaper industry is in the hands of our children.
FIRST: The Herald-Independent, James Denton, There Getting them involved early will keep us in their minds.
Oughtta Be a Law SECOND: The Post and Courier, Experience Charleston
Judges’ comments: Denton provides a plain-english
explanation of the FOIA as well as a local example of how
Cartoon THIRD: The Beaufort Gazette, Currently Playing
taxpayers were hurt by being excluded from discussions FIRST: Herald-Journal, Robert Ariail
about attempts to fix up a historic school building. We all Judges’ comments: Very Nice! Affiliated or Niche Website
need watchdogs like Mr. Denton. Job well done. SECOND: Index-Journal, Mike Beckom
SECOND: The State, Cindi Ross Scoppe, A Little Sunshine THIRD: The Dillon Herald, Betsy Finklea FIRST: The Beaufort Gazette, David Feld, Jeff Kidd and Staff,
THIRD: The Gaffney Ledger, Cody Sossamon, It’s Not What beaufort300.com
They Did, It’s HOW They Did It Judges’ comments: Awesome “niche.” Well-designed,
Mixed Media Illustration attactive and easy to find information.
SECOND: The Post and Courier, Staff, charlestonscene.com
Series of Sports Articles FIRST: The Island Packet, Tom Robinette THIRD: Herald-Journal, Staff, preps.goupstate.com
Judges’ Comments: Very cool manipulation of the Oscar
FIRST: The State, Bob Spear and Bob Gillespie figurines. Extremely creative and fun! I’m wondering
Judges’ comments: A true chamber of commerce series for how difficult this was to do. Freakin’ cool.
South Carolina golf. Actually all the chambers should use SECOND: Herald-Journal, Gary Kyle
your series in promoting the state. THIRD: The Greer Citizen, Mandy Ferguson
SECOND: Aiken Standard, Ben Baugh
THIRD: Aiken Standard, Jeremy Timmerman

5. 2011 SCPA News Contest Winners • 5
Online News Project Education Reporting Pictorial
FIRST: The Post and Courier, Gill Guerry, Tracking an FIRST: The Herald, Shawn Cetrone FIRST: Morning News, Gavin Jackson, Patriotism Parade
Arsonist Judges’ comments: An array of in-depth articles detailing a Judges’ comments: Beautiful and touching photo.
Judges’ comments: In a highly competitive contest, you lot of major issues in area schools. Well-done, well-written. Exemplifies the phrase -- a picture is worth a thousand
are the clear winner. The overall presentation is clean, SECOND: Herald-Journal, Lee G. Healy words. Nice color and geometry.
easy to navigate and well-organized. Especially like the THIRD: Independent Mail, Anna B. Mitchell SECOND: The Post and Courier, Grace Beahm, Cypress Swamp
interactive maps, databases, photo galleries and videos. THIRD: The State, C. Aluka Berry, State Fair
Job well done!
SECOND: Independent Mail, Nikie Mayo, Erin Gillespie, Faith Reporting HONORABLE MENTION: The Beaufort Gazette, Bob Sofaly,
Lightning
Richard Johnson Jr., Jennifer Crossley Howard, Liz Carey, FIRST: Independent Mail, Charmaine Smith-Miles
Mike Ellis, Ken Ruinard, Sefton Ipock, Nathan Gray and Kirk
Brown, Snowstorm
Judges’ comments: Helping Hands story stood out among
many greats in this division. Humorous Photo
THIRD: The Times and Democrat, Brian Linder, Emery Glover, SECOND: The Herald, Don Worthington FIRST: Herald-Journal, John Byrum, Chicken on display
Larry Hardy and Thomas Grant Jr., Slammin’ and Jammin’ THIRD: Index-Journal, St. Claire Donaghy Judges’ comments: We laughed. Funny for everyone!
HONORABLE MENTION: The Post and Courier, Gill Guerry, SECOND: Independent Mail, Ken Ruinard, Buck in car
Civil War
Sports Beat Reporting THIRD: The Post and Courier, Wade Spees, RiverDogs
FIRST: The State, Neil White
Judges’ comments: Story on Scott Wingo was good read. Unpublished Photo
Chad Holbrook’s recruiting story was also an interesting FIRST: Index-Journal, Sam O’Keefe, Meth lab investigation
All Daily read. All three kept my interest.
SECOND: The Post and Courier, Phil Bowman
THIRD: Herald-Journal, Kevin Melton
Judges’ comments: Photo shows another side of the
decontamination process. We can feel the inconvenience
and depth of situation through this photo.
News Special Edition or Section SECOND: The Item, Michael Christopher, A special chat
FIRST: The Beaufort Gazette, A Walk Through History Feature Headline Writing THIRD: Morning News, Gavin Jackson, Retiring of flags
HONORABLE MENTION: The Post and Courier, Wade Spees,
Judges’ comments: This is a very solid, detailed and FIRST: The Post and Courier, Bob Kinney Charleston Fire Department
interesting piece that becomes a remarkable history book Judges’ comments: Clever, funny headlines that fit the
big plus for the planners here...blending interactivity into
print is a perfect example for others to follow. Thoroughly
enjoyable!
story and use play on words well.
SECOND: The Post and Courier, Tony Brown Use of Twitter
THIRD: Independent Mail, Kylie Yerka FIRST: The State, Kelly Davis, Rachael Lowe, Dwayne
SECOND: The State, The New Main Street McLemore, Aubrey Jenkins and Gary Ward
THIRD: The Post and Courier, 9/11
Sports Headline Writing Judges’ comments: Great, consistent posts. Good variety
of content, obvious by over 13,000 followers!
Sports Special Edition or Section FIRST: The Times and Democrat, Jennifer Spears
Judges’ comments: Headlines were consistently strong
SECOND: The Greenville News, Staff
THIRD: Herald-Journal, Stephen Largen
FIRST: The State, Twice is Nice and attention-grabbing.
Judges’ comments: Great production from front to back. SECOND: The Post and Courier, Fred Rindge
The collaboration to combine history of the season with the
biggest news into a well-organized piece is wonderful. It
THIRD: Independent Mail, Rusty Boggs Facebook Page
shows what can be done with focus when speed is a key. FIRST: The Island Packet, Staff
SECOND: Morning News, Racking Their Brains
THIRD: Herald-Journal, Facemask - Football Preview
Single Page One Design Judges’ comments: The interaction with readers is
obviously encouraged. Great idea to post image of the
FIRST: Herald-Journal, Shana Gray
Judges’ comments: Striking layout. Powerful lead art front page!
Critical Writing evokes the strong emotions of the tragedy.
SECOND: Morning News, Stephen Guilfoyle
SECOND: Morning News, Kim Ginfrida, Matt Robertson, Jackie
Torok, Brian Wilder, Rebecca Sucker and Lou Bezjak
FIRST: The Post and Courier, Bo Petersen THIRD: The Island Packet, Cate Westberg THIRD: The Post and Courier, Staff
Judges’ comments: Interesting, concise, nice writing.
Some, as in “Leeches,” do not pull punches. He definitely
would influence whether or not I read a book.
SECOND: The Post and Courier, Bill Thompson
THIRD: The Greenville News, Paul Hyde
Photo Page Design Entertainment Section
FIRST: The Times and Democrat, Kristin Leigh Coker
Judges’ comments: This design is genius. Such a creative FIRST: Independent Mail, Jake Grove and Kylie Yerka,
Health Reporting way of presenting these images. I can only imagine how
much time this took to complete. Job well done!
Upstate BE
Judges’ comments: Information-packed -- filled with
FIRST: The Post and Courier, Renee Dudley SECOND: The Item, Jessica Stephens visually-appealing items and great local content.
Judges’ comments: Five important stories, all of which led THIRD: Index-Journal, Scott Bryan SECOND: The Post and Courier, Allison Nugent and Matt
to change. Strong writing. Winter, Charleston Scene
SECOND: The Greenville News, Liv Osby THIRD: The Sun News, Caroline Evans, Kicks
THIRD: The Greenville News, Mike Foley

6. 6 • 2011 SCPA News Contest Winners
Critical Writing
FIRST:Pickens County Courier, Nicole Daughhetee, Every
Moment is a Gift
Judges’ comments: Clearly the winner in this category
that had many great entries. Nicole gives a personal feel
without making the reader feel like are reading a
personal journal. Good job.
THIRD: Charleston City Paper, Susan Cohen, Life and Death
SECOND: The Woodruff News, William Buchheit,
Tree of Life
Health Reporting
FIRST: Lake Wylie Pilot, John Marks
Judges’ comments: Fish story provides important
information for area residents. Nicely done!
SECOND: The Press & Standard, Linda Salsberry
THIRD: The Woodruff News, William Buchheit
Education Reporting
FIRST: The Horry Independent, Heather Gale
Judges’ comments: Focused, highly informative writing
on a variety of complex topics, all well-organized and
filled with compelling quotations that clearly articulate
both issues and culture of community make this honor
well-earned.
SECOND: The Gaffney Ledger, Scott Powell
THIRD: Daniel Island News, Elizabeth Bush
First Place Sports Feature Photo: Nathan Gray, Independent-Mail, After Catching a Fly Ball
Faith Reporting
FIRST: The Gaffney Ledger, Joe L. Hughes II
Lifestyle/Feature Special All Weeky Judges’ comments: The writer used the right amount of
seriousness and fun to create these well-told and
interesting stories. The “Attendees Will Get a Kick” story
Edition or Section was an especially enjoyable read.
News Special Edition or Section SECOND: Pickens County Courier, Nicole Daughhetee
THIRD: Union County News, Anna Brown
FIRST: The Post and Courier, My Charleston
Judges’ comments: Imagine yourself dropped in a brand FIRST: Clarendon Citizen, Classic Clarendon: Citizens
new spot and given one tool to help you establish your life
here. This is it! A solid, very interesting, fact-filled piece
Remember
Judges’ comments: This one just almost wrote itself! I like Sports Beat Reporting
that delivers what an area guide should. the personal accounts of “where were you when...” FIRST: The News & Reporter, Travis Jenkins, Memories and
SECOND: Herald-Journal, Preserving the Past SECOND: The Press & Standard, Colleton Magazine Memorabilia
THIRD: Herald-Journal, Think Pink THIRD: The Clinton Chronicle, Veterans Salute Judges’ comments: Awesome story.Very interesting. Good
sentence structure and presentation. Very reader-friendly.
SECOND: The Summerville Journal Scene, Roger Lee,
E.A. Ramsaur Award for Overcoming Obstacles
Sports Special Edition or Section THIRD: The Woodruff News, Jed Blackwell, Rising Chapman
Senior Dies Suddenly
Editorial Writing FIRST: The Manning Times, Hall of Fame
Judges’ comments: Wow! This section really stood out for
FIRST: The State, Cindi Ross Scoppe
Judges’ comments: MANY good entries in this group, but
the writing and subject matter. The whole package was
nicely done and an easy choice for first place. Very
Feature Headline Writing
Scoppe’s work stands out. “Secessionists” packs a punch impressive! FIRST: Spartanburg County News, Leon G. Russ
and is irrefutable. “ATV” calls for action after making her SECOND: The Herald-Independent, Fall Sports Preview Judges’ comments: By far the best entries in this category.
point very well. “Overhaul” really put the reader in the THIRD: The News & Reporter, Chester Co. Football 2011 “Pho No” was funny and creative without being
picture. Good job HONORABLE MENTION: News and Press, Southern 500 insensitive. It made me laugh out loud.
SECOND: Morning News, Tucker Mitchell SECOND: The Fort Jackson Leader, Susanne Kappler
THIRD: The Post and Courier, Frank Wooten THIRD: Chronicle - Independent, Martha Bruce

7. 2011 SCPA News Contest Winners • 7
Sports Headline Writing Use of Twitter Photo Illustration
FIRST:
The News & Reporter, Travis Jenkins FIRST: Fort Mill Times, Jenny Overman and Michael FIRST: Charleston City Paper, Scott Suchy, Poptart Cat
Judges’ comments: Headlines seem to be consistent across Harrison Judges’ comments: Very imaginative. Adorable and
the entry. Well done! Judges’ comments: Account connects to the newspaper’s hilarious. So far out of the litter box you can’t even see it!
SECOND: The Woodruff News, Jed Blackwell website and other sources to use Twitter as a part, not a SECOND: Myrtle Beach Herald, Chris Mowder, Growing
THIRD: The Gazette, Rob Gantt stand alone. Great interaction with readers. the Forest
SECOND: Free Times, Eva Moore THIRD: Coastal Observer, Tanya Ackerman, Romantic
Single Page One Design THIRD: Free Times, Corey Hutchins movies
HONORABLE MENTION: The Greer Citizen, Mandy Ferguson,
FIRST: Carolina Forest Chronicle, Michael Smith
Judges’ comments: Excellent looking centerpiece and clver Facebook Page Double duty
use of the centerpiece to present a lot of information.
Great overall use of graphics and teasers. Very clean
FIRST: Fort Mill Times, Jenny Overman and Michael Harrison
Judges’ comments: Interacts well with users, offering Weekly Newspaper Website
layout and design. external links and a wide range of interesting story topics. FIRST: Clarendon Citizen, Carol Dowell and Joe Dowell,
SECOND: Carolina Forest Chronicle, Michael Smith SECOND: Carolina Forest Chronicle, Michael Smith, Matt clarendoncitizen.com
THIRD: The Manning Times, Jason Lesley Montgomery, Chris Mowder and Amanda Kelley Judges’ comments: Good site. Well-organized. Good
THIRD: The People-Sentinel, Susan C. Delk, Jonathan Vickery and amount of local content. Nice placement of graphics.
Kaelyn Pfenning SECOND: Charleston City Paper, Joshua Curry,
Photo Page Design Harris Award for Editorial Writing
charlestoncitypaper.com
THIRD: The Press & Standard, Staff, colletontoday.com
FIRST: Coastal Observer, Charles Swenson, Year in Photos FIRST: The Clinton Chronicle, Larry Franklin, Plan is a Bad Idea
Judges’ comments: I LOVE the window idea! Very clever
and eye-catching. Very neat design idea. I’m planning on
Judges’ comments: Editorials are powerful with clearly
and forcefully presented arguments. Well done!
Photo Gallery
stealing it! SECOND: The Herald-Independent, James Denton, Loose FIRST: The Summerville Journal-Scene, Paul Zoeller,
SECOND: The Hartsville Messenger, Emily Killan, Pickin’ and Ledgers Sink Ships Down and Dirty
Grinnin’ THIRD: The News & Reporter, Travis Jenkins, A School Play Judges’ comments: Variety of topics and angles gave this
THIRD: LINK, Mykal McEldowney, C. Khid entry the edge. Emotion shows. Good composition.
SECOND: The Summerville Journal Scene, Paul Zoeller,
Public Service Family Cup
Pictorial FIRST: The Manning Times, Sharron Haley and Jason Lesley,
Line of Duty
THIRD: Clarendon Citizen, Sharron Haley, Muddy for a Cause
FIRST: Coastal Observer, Tanya Ackerman, Morning sunshine
Judges’ comments: Great use of soft light.
Judges’ comments: Excellent! Stories were well done and
many stirred up emotions from within. Tears came to my
Online Sports Video
SECOND: The Summerville Journal Scene, Stefan Rogenmoser, eyes on some. Powerful writing. FIRST: Myrtle Beach Herald, Seahawks Win State
Flaming Lips concert SECOND: The Press & Standard, George Salsberry and Charles Championship
THIRD: Coastal Observer, Tanya Ackerman, Cold Rowland, Coal Ash Landfill Judges’ comments: Good coverage of an important local event.
winter sunrise THIRD: The Gaffney Ledger, Staff, Cherokee 20/20 SECOND: Charleston City Paper, Joshua Curry, Quiddich
THIRD: Clarendon Citizen, Konstantin Vengerowsky,
Hydration
Humorous Photo Sports Enterprise Reporting
FIRST: Lake Wylie Pilot, John Marks, Octogenarian pulls
husband’s boat
FIRST: Spartanburg County News, Jed Blackwell, The Long
and Winding Region Road Online Feature Video
Judges’ comments: This is great... The one with the walker Judges’ comments: This entry was thorough and thought- FIRST: The Summerville Journal Scene, Paul Zoeller, Beat of a
is pulling the boat! provoking, as well as well-researched and well-written. The Different Drum
SECOND: The Greer Citizen, Preston Burch, White Christmas amount of effort by the writer was obvious. Great job! Judges’ comments: Beautiful photos mixed with vintage-
SECOND: Fort Mill Times, Mac Banks, Style of Play Led Lady styled video footage. Impressive!
THIRD: Coastal Observer, Tanya Ackerman, Never to old to
celebrate Halloween Falcons to Title SECOND: The Summerville Journal Scene, Paul Zoeller, A
THIRD: Daniel Island News, Elizabeth Bush, FCC Player Mother’s Day Gift
Serves Up Help for Community THIRD: Charleston City Paper, Joshua Curry, Portrait Battle
Unpublished Photo Business Reporting
FIRST: Fort Mill Times, Mac Banks, Keeps running
Judges’ comments: Great picture to portray dedication of FIRST: Daniel Island News, Elizabeth Bush Inside Page Design
the racer. Judges’ comments: Elizabeth Bush understands that the FIRST: The Gaffney Ledger, Laura Parker, St. Louis Brass
SECOND: The Fort Jackson Leader, Susanne Kappler, Training best stories, even business stories, are always about Judges’ comments: Nice, clean page. Layout draws the
exercise people. These entries were interesting, informative and reader to each element in a fluid motion. Great job.
THIRD: The Summerville Journal Scene, Stefan Rogenmoser, just good reads. This was clearly the first place winner. SECOND: The Greer Citizen, Mandy Ferguson, Journey of Love
Ice coats logs SECOND: Myrtle Beach Herald, Charles D. Perry
THIRD: The Star, Brandon Lockett, Face Your Fears
THIRD: Coastal Observer, Jackie Broach
HONORABLE MENTION: The News & Reporter, Travis Jenkins

8. 8 • 2011 SCPA News Contest Winners
Daily Over 50,000 Lifestyle Feature Writing Reporting in Depth
FIRST: The State, Dawn Hinshaw, Serious Downsizing FIRST: The Post and Courier, Renee Dudley, Waste and abuse
News Headline Writing Judges’ comments: Excellent portrayal of person and at homeless shelter
project. Leaves the reader with an understanding of who Judges’ comments: Thorough, hard-hitting reporting that got
FIRST: The Post and Courier, Tony Brown the subject is without delving into details not needed. results. Congratulations to Renee Dudley and the Post and
Judges’ comments: Thoughtful headlines that both convey SECOND: The Greenville News, Mike Foley, Basketball tourney Courier for making a difference by uncovering a scandal at
the essence of the story and draw the reader in for a look. for the deaf is a game apart the North Charleston shelter for homeless veterans.
SECOND: The State, Robert J. Venturella THIRD: The State, Dawn Hinshaw, A garden for all seasons prompting a federal audit and the firing of the director.
THIRD: The Post and Courier, Beth Harrison SECOND: The Post and Courier, Glenn Smith, Bo Petersen and
Andy Paras, Palmetto Behavioral Health
Profile Feature Writing or Story THIRD: The Post and Courier, Glenn Smith, Gene Sapakoff
Spot News Reporting and Edward Fennell, Skip ReVille molestation stories
FIRST: The Post and Courier, Yvonne Wenger, Sanford
FIRST: The Greenville News, Paul Alongi, Ben Szobody and Retrospective
Staff, Storm Delivers Judges’ comments: A large amount of time and resources Beat Reporting
Judges’ comments: Well Done! Paper does a good job of resulted in a fascinating look at a political fall from grace
showing what happened during crippling ice/snow storm. -- and now we have an insider’s point of view. Your hard FIRST PLACE AND BEST OF THE BEST: The State, John O’Connor
SECOND: The State, Noelle Phillips, Murder-Suicide Leaves work paid off. Bravo! Judges’ comments: In-depth coverage using FOI and
Four Dead SECOND: The Post and Courier, Glenn Smith, Sinking into the other means to give readers understanding of how Haley
THIRD: The Greenville News, Ben Szobody, Ron Barnett, darkness won; how she is doing on campaign promises and behind
David Dykes, Jenny Munro, Abe Hardesty and Eric Connor, THIRD: The State, Otis R. Taylor Jr., The Twist and Chubby the scenes pictures of “government” at work. Much more
Max Heller: He Made Upstate a Better Place Checker than just quoting from press releases and press
conferences. All candidates in this category are to be
commended for work that goes beyond surface coverage
Enterprise Reporting Short Story of their beats.
SECOND: The Post and Courier, Yvonne Wenger
FIRST PLACE AND BEST OF THE BEST: The Post and Courier, Renee FIRST: The Post and Courier, Bo Petersen, Council Votes on THIRD: The Post and Courier, Glenn Smith
Dudley, European Vacation or Legitimate Business? Gibberish
Judges’ comments: For sheer impact around the state, this Judges’ comments: This takes a surprising approach to city
stands out. Not only was there the initial enterprise in council coverage, and it has a real and meaningful ending. Public Service
uncovering the information, there was also the dogged SECOND: The State, Adam Beam, For Mom, Rumor Became
pursuit by the reporter that caught the governor in a Horror FIRST: The State, The Civil War: 150 Years Later
misstatement. THIRD: The State, Dawn Hinshaw, Everlasting Splendor Judges’ comments: Ambitious, exhaustive, and well-
SECOND: The State, Wayne Washington, USC’s Biomass written series that ties the events of the Civil War to
Plant Debacle contemporary successes and failures in politics and
THIRD: The Post and Courier, Yvonne Wenger and Adam Column Writing society. Difficult to relive, yet an important story that
Parker, Being Gay in Charleston can’t be forgotten.
FIRST: The State, Cindi Ross Scoppe SECOND: The Post and Courier, Doug Pardue, The Price of
Judges’ comments: All three columns are filled with great Living
News Feature Writing insight and analysis, and they offer a powerful point of view. THIRD: The Post and Courier, Tony Barteleme, Tracking an
SECOND: The Post and Courier, Brian Hicks Arsonist
FIRST: The Post and Courier, Adam Parker, Hidden hurt THIRD: The Greenville News, Beth Padgett
Judges’ comments: A compelling, intimate story about
one family’s indescribable tragedy. Well-reported, told Spot Sports Story
with detail and sensitivity. Impossible to stop reading.
SECOND: The Post and Courier, Brian Hicks, Slavery in
Series of Articles FIRST: The Greenville News, Scott Keeler, State Championship
Charleston FIRST: The State, Carolyn Click, Joey Holleman, Wayne Bittersweet for J.L. Mann
THIRD: The State, Joey Holleman, I love you Peggy Washington, Jeff Wilkinson and John Monk, The Civil War: Judges’ comments: Enjoyable read. Writer shows the
150 years later determination of Morgan Smith for both families.
Judges’ comments: A remarkable piece of historical SECOND: The Post and Courier, Jeff Hartsell, Bulldogs Recall
Business Reporting journalism, one that brings the history of the Civil War into Master Motivator
THIRD: The Post and Courier, Tommy Braswell, Cougars
the present-day world of race, politics and life in South
FIRST: The State, Jeff Wilkinson Carolina. Nice use of sidebar material and info graphics to Shoot Down Flyers
Judges’ comments: Great job! What could have been a help tell the story.
complex issue was broken down clearly for readers. SECOND: The Post and Courier, Brian Hicks, Civil War 150th
SECOND: The Post and Courier, Warren Wise Anniversary
THIRD: The Greenville News, David Dykes THIRD: The Post and Courier, Doug Pardue, The Price of
Living

9. 2011 SCPA News Contest Winners • 9
Sports Feature Story
FIRST: The State, Akilah Imani Nelson, The Wrestler
Judges’ comments: Standout feature in a very strong
category. The writer puts us in the ring with this unique
wrestler. Fantastic photos illustrate a compelling story.
SECOND: The Post and Courier, Travis Haney, Beating the odds
THIRD: The State, Josh Kendall, Garcia’s Last Stand
Sports Column Writing
FIRST: The Post and Courier, Gene Sapakoff
Judges’ comments: Sapakoff ’s columns display a winning
mix of interesting topics, styles and approaches. All of
them are well-written. His work gets the top honor in this
tough category.
SECOND: The State, Ron Morris
THIRD: The Greenville News, Bart Wright
Page One Design Portfolio
FIRST: The State, Meredith Sheffer
Judges’ comments: Great use of photos, illustrations and Second Place Photo Series or Photo Story: Gerry Melendez, The State, Gamecocks win College World Series
pull-out boxes. Visually appealing.
SECOND: The Post and Courier, Tim Thorsen
THIRD: The State, Tracy Burlison
General News Photo Sports Feature Photo
Inside Page Design FIRST: The State, C. Aluka Berry, 150th anniversary of the FIRST PLACE AND BEST OF THE BEST: The Greenville News, Bart
Civil War Boatwright, S.C. State Basketball
FIRST: The State, Meredith Sheffer Judges’ comments: Stunning. Everything about this photo Judges’ comments: Clear winner in a VERY competitive
Judges’ comments: Nice top plate and variety of stories. is beautiful. This photo makes me want to know more contest. This works because it is such an unusual
Great job! about what is going on. pregame photo. The location is unique. The right lens was
THIRD: The Post and Courier, Tim Thorsen SECOND: The State, Tim Dominick, Difficult Deployment chosen. The dramatic light from the arena adds drama to
SECOND: The State, Meredith Sheffer THIRD: The State, Tracy Glantz, Char Richards the photo. Works very nicely.
HONORABLE MENTION: The Greenville News, Heidi Heilbrunn, SECOND: The Post and Courier, Brad Nettles, Paragolfer
Easter THIRD: The State, Gerry Melendez, Jackie Bradley Jr.
Feature Page Design Portfolio HONORABLE MENTION: The Post and Courier, Alan Hawes,
Baseball team celebrates state title
FIRST: The Post and Courier, Fred Smith HONORABLE MENTION: The Post and Courier, Wade Spees,
Judges’ comments: Interesting layouts and a good variety. Feature Photo Football Practice Heat
Like use of dominant art and information boxes.
SECOND: The Post and Courier, Almar Flotildes FIRST PLACE AND BEST OF THE BEST: The State, Tim Dominick,
THIRD: The Post and Courier, Laura Joyce Gough PETA Peek
Judges’ comments: Great capture of an unusual event. Sports Action Photo
The timing is spot on. The man looking in sets this photo
Spot News Photo apart and puts it well above the others.
SECOND: The Post and Courier, Grace Beahm, Snow Catchers
FIRST: The Greenville News, Bart Boatwright, Football
Judges’ comments: Great timing. Nice football shot.
FIRST: The Post and Courier, Grace Beahm, Mothers Comfort THIRD: The Post and Courier, Wade Spees, Battle of SECOND: The Greenville News, Bart Boatwright, Greer v.
Judges’ comments: Powerful. Our hearts break for this Secessionville Wade Hampton Baseball
woman. The raw emotion, paired with perfect color and HONORABLE MENTION: The Post and Courier, Grace Beahm, THIRD: The Post and Courier, Douglas Rogers, Jerod Tucker
lighting, make this the winner. Street surfer carries the ball
SECOND: The State, C. Aluka Berry, Lightning caused a fire HONORABLE MENTION: The Post and Courier, Grace Beahm,
THIRD: The Post and Courier, Wade Spees, Car in Marsh Wozniacki Tennis
HONORABLE MENTION: The Post and Courier, Brad Nettles, St.
Stephen Tornado

10. 10 • 2011 SCPA News Contest Winners
Integration of Print and Web
FIRST: The Post and Courier, Staff, Civil War: 150 Years
Judges’ comments: Love how print and web play off of
each other in this comprehensive series. In print, strong
writing, photography and design make me want to
immediately see more online. Once online, I easily get
lost in the multimedia elements and user-submitted
content. Compelling and fun! Great work!
SECOND: The Post and Courier, Staff, Cooper River Bridge Run
THIRD: The Post and Courier, Staff, Tracking an Arsonist
HONORABLE MENTION: The State, Staff, Roads Lead to Danger
Photo Gallery
FIRST: The Post and Courier, Grace Beahm, Scottish Games
and Highland Gathering
Judges’ comments: Great range of photos! Well-edited for
content. Color, cropping, angles and emotion are
impressive. This gallery makes me wish I had been there!
SECOND: The State, Gerry Melendez, Gamecocks win National
Championship
THIRD: The Greenville News, Ken Osburn, Car Art
Second Place Spot News Photo: C. Aluka Berry, The State, Lighning Strike Causes Fire.
Online Spot News Video
Personality Photograph or Photo Illustration
FIRST: The Post and Courier, Chris Hanclosky,
Commemorating History - Civil War
Portrait FIRST: The Post and Courier, Wade Spees, Distracted Driving
Judges’ comments: Good use of cuts and panning.
SECOND: The Greenville News, Mykal McEldowney,
FIRST:The State, C. Aluka Berry, Carter Strange Judges’ comments: Great illustration of distracted. Candlelight Vigil for Liberty Victims
Judges’ comments: Wow. This image is powerful, and Definitely proves the point. Clear winner in this contest. THIRD: The Post and Courier, Chris Hanclosky, Inside a Boeing 787
more telling than words could say. Great lighting, and we SECOND: The State, Kim-Kim Foster Tobin, Bowties for
love how the parents are in the background.
Carolina Cup
SECOND: The Post and Courier, Grace Beahm, Happy Camper
THIRD: The State, Gerry Melendez, Caroline DeSanctis
THIRD: The State, Kim-Kim Foster Tobin, Jesus’ resurrection Online Feature Video
is celebrated
HONORABLE MENTION: The State, C. Aluka Berry, Steve’s Barber FIRST: The State, Gerry Melendez, Grady Matthews
Shop owner
Judges’ comments: Story told effectively through GREAT shots.
Daily Newspaper Website SECOND: The State, Gerry Melendez, Undying Love
Photo Series or Photo Story FIRST: The Greenville News, Staff, greenvilleonline.com
THIRD: The Post and Courier, Chris Hanclosky, Charleston on
Any Budget
FIRST: The Post and Courier, Wade Spees, America Street
Judges’ comments: Great site -- Very pleasant design.
Judges’ comments: Powerful series.Beautiful photos show
SECOND: The State, Gary Ward, Dwayne McLemore, Kelly
personality of community, the issues they face and hope
for the future. Good use of lenses. Overall, a stunning
Davis, Rachael Lowe and Aubrey Jenkins, thestate.com Online Sports Video
package that bring the reader into America Street. THIRD: The Post and Courier, Tom Clifford and Staff,
SECOND: The State, Gerry Melendez, College World Series postandcourier.com FIRST: The Greenville News, Manie Robinson, Bart Wright,
THIRD: The Post and Courier, Grace Beahm, 54th Scott Keepfer and Bart Boatwright, Week 7: Maryland
Massachusetts Judges’ comments: Original content with great analysis.
Refreshing, insightful coverage.
SECOND: The State, Gerry Melendez, The Wrestler
THIRD: The Post and Courier, Andrew Miller, College of
Charleston - Citadel Basketball

11. 2011 SCPA News Contest Winners • 11
Daily 20,000 -
50,000,
News Headline Writing
FIRST: Independent Mail, Kylie Yerka
Judges’ comments: All entries signify story content
excellently. Graphics on “Going Broke to Pay for Ga$?”
gets attention of every consumer. Great creativity.
SECOND: Independent Mail, Mike McMillan
THIRD: Herald-Journal, Phillip Randall
Spot News Reporting
FIRST: The Sun News, Janelle Frost, Adva Saldinger, Jake Spring
and Gina Vasselli, Plane Crash Kills 2 in NMB RV Park
Judges’ comments: No aspect of this story was left
uncovered. Great pictures, all human interest areas were
revealed -- emotion, hope and despair. Fantastic tales of
a horrific accident twisted with a positive outlook.
SECOND: The Herald, Nicole Smith, James Self, Shawn
Cetrone and Andrew Dys, Storms Pack a Punch
THIRD: Morning News, Tucker Mitchell, DOJ Weighs in on
Vote Map
Enterprise Reporting First Place Spot News Photo: Tanya Ackerman, Coastal Observer, Comforted as his home is repossessed and hauled away.
FIRST:
The Sun News, David Wren, Mortgage Papers Raise
SECOND: Independent Mail, Kirk Brown and Nikie Mayo,
Fraud Claims
Judges’ comments: Wren took a complex topic, found
News Feature Writing Body of Unidentified Woman Removed from Well
several pertinent examples to bring the subject to life, and FIRST PLACE AND BEST OF THE BEST: The Sun News, THIRD: Morning News, Dwight Dana, A Whopper of Energy
wrote a clear, informative piece on a matter with major Isaac Bailey and Tonya Root, Helms Opens Up About Past,
impact on his community and nationwide. This story
stands out as a clear No. 1 in this category.
Future
Judges’ comments: Excellent news-feature about a tragic Column Writing
SECOND: Independent Mail, Nikie Mayo and Jennifer Howard, incident. The reporters did their research and painted FIRST PLACE AND BEST OF THE BEST: The Sun News, Issac Bailey
A Legal Drug You Can Buy Anywhere vivid images with words. Congratulations. Judges’ comments: While there were many excellent
THIRD: The Herald, Don Worthington, S.C., N.C. Differ on SECOND: The Sun News, Brad Dickerson, Mailman Changes entries, Issac Bailey’s was the most thoughtful (and
Carowinds Records with the Times perhaps action-invoking). His work is very meaningful,
THIRD: Independent Mail, Nikie Mayo, Unsolved, but not brave, often putting himself into the fray and bringing it
Business Reporting Forgotten to life with knowledge, skill, and sensitivity. There was no
trouble selecting a winner.
FIRST:The Herald, Don Worthington
Judges’ comments: Bravo for the story on amusement
park ride inspection and the lack of records. Your work
Profile Feature Writing or Story SECOND: The Herald, James Werrell
THIRD: Herald-Journal, Pam Stone
FIRST: The Sun News, Steve Jones, A Light to Others
will save lives.
Judges’ comments: The clear winner in this category. The
SECOND: The Sun News, Dawn Bryant
THIRD: Independent Mail, Charmaine Smith-Miles
only thing better than reading this story about Levern
Wilson would be to meet the man himself. Steve Jones Series of Articles
lifts that desire with this moving piece.
SECOND: The Herald, Andrew Dys, Staying Power FIRST: The Sun News, Issac Bailey, Booker T. Washington
Lifestyle Feature Writing THIRD: Herald-Journal, Jenny Arnold, Not Slowing Down Anti-Violence
Judges’ comments: A passionate rendering of the crime
FIRST: Independent Mail, Nikie Mayo, A Love Not Lost plaguing one neighborhood. Says one resident: “You gotta
Judges’ comments: Delightful story that brims with
history and human interest.
Short Story hit trouble on the head. If you don’t stop it, it’s like a
FIRST: Independent Mail, Nikie Mayo, Woman Killed on Way cancer and it multiplies.” Issac Bailey’s series hits it on the
SECOND: The Sun News, Steve Palisin, The Stand on Two Wheels head. Solid writing.
to Help Dog
THIRD: Herald-Journal, Kim Kimzey, Missing Mom Judges’ comments: The details in your story are what set it SECOND: The Herald, Staff, Jail, No Bail - 50 years Later
apart from the others. You recount the scene well and clearly THIRD: Independent Mail, Liz Carey, Anna Mitchell, Kirk
did reporting outside of just the police report and court Brown, Ray Chandler, Mike Ellis, Jennifer Howard and Nikie
records. Mayo, 150th Anniversary of the Civil War