Place Name: First Place Contestant Name: Mora - Kanabec County Times Entry Title: Locals adjust to higher prices Entry Credit: Kirsten Faurie Judge Comment: Good, comprehensive report on the problem. Solid use of data, along with interesting and varied personal accounts of folks impacted by high prices. And useful resources for the reader seeking help. Nice!
Place Name: Second Place Contestant Name: Cloquet - Pine Knot News Entry Title: Wanted: a place for lost dogs and cats Entry Credit: Francy Chammings, Jana Peterson Judge Comment: Solid report on a local issues that tugs at the heartstrings. Reporter does a nice job of laying out the challenges and possible avenues to address the problem of lost/stray cats and dogs in the community.
Place Name: Third Place Contestant Name: Pequot Lakes - Pineandlakes Echo Journal Entry Title: Mother speaks up on worst nightmare Entry Credit: Travis Grimler Judge Comment: Really good report on a serious problem. Red flags and places to turn for help especially helpful.
Competition Comment: This contest featured a number of good articles addressing important community issues. It was good to see the writers raise awareness of problems, and provide useful resources. Many of the articles did miss at least one key element, such as data related to the problem, and/or content that puts a face on the issue, rather than relying on "official" comments. All in all a nice batch of entries.
