Place Name: First Place Contestant Name: Hibbing Daily Tribune Entry Title: SERIES ON TREATMENT COURTS Entry Credit: Eric Killelea Judge Comment: This series was very well done. A mix of gripping personal stories, along with a thoughtful examination of systemic challenges and policy objectives, made the articles engaging and really helped drive home the need for and work of special court programs. Great job.
Place Name: Second Place Contestant Name: Bemidji - The Bemidji Pioneer Entry Title: A Grassroots Movement: Advocates hope to legalize marijuana in Red Lake Nation Entry Credit: Jordan Shearer Judge Comment: This was a very thorough, well researched and deeply reported take on an important issue. It was full of important context and examined a wide range of opinions on a very controversial and complicated topic.
Place Name: Third Place Contestant Name: Willmar - West Central Tribune Entry Title: Home for the homeless Entry Credit: Carolyn Lange Judge Comment: While not as in-depth as the two entries that finished above it, this was perhaps the best narrative description of what sounds like an amazing and important program addressing a major need. Clear and concise writing made me want to keep reading.
