Better 2017 Newspaper Contest
130th Annual Meeting Oct. 12-14, 2017 Olympia, Wash.
2017 Better Newspaper Contest
Awards reflect on the important work we do By Fred Obee First, on behalf of the staff and the Board of Directors for WNPA, let me offer you our heartfelt congratulations on the awards you all have received. While reviewing the contest entries and putting together this publication, I was constantly impressed by the high quality entries. Vivid photos, compelling stories, and clever, attention-getting ads dominated. Judges from the Pennsylvania NewsMedia Association all said how impressed they were
with the quality of the entries. It shows what can be accomplished, even when we are pressed for time and even when resources are scarce. Our own initiative powers what we do, and it’s clear we have lots of that among WNPA members. Here are just a few excerpts from the comments left by the judges:
“Excellent use of photos! Refreshing to see page designers are not timid about using large photos, creating bold layouts
CONTEST FACTS JUDGES: Pennsylvania NewsMedia Association
“Very strong content throughout; crisp layout and design elements help to set this newspaper apart; the display advertising was uniformly excellent; the sections of the newspaper are presented logically; the number of legal notices
CONTEST PERIODS Regular Contest: April 1, 2016-March 31, 2017 Tourism Special Sections: June 1, 2016May 31, 2017 General Excellence: Sept. 18 & Sept. 25, 2017
Better Newspaper Contest Committee Members Don Nelson, WNPA President (Methow Valley News) Fred Obee, WNPA Janay Collins, WNPA
CIRCULATION GROUPS Circulation Group 1 – up to 2,500 Circulation Group 2 – 2,501-5,000 Circulation Group 3 – 5,001-12,500 Circulation Group 4 - 12,501 and up
NUMBER OF ENTRIES BY DIVISION Advertising: 340 Special Sections: 139
This special section was edited, designed and produced by the WNPA staff, Executive Director Fred Obee and Member Services Director Janay Collins. Printing was provided by the Wenatchee World. The betterbnc.com website is provided and hosted by SmallTownPapers (smalltownpapers. com.) Additional copies of this publication are available from WNPA by request to Fred Obee at fredobee@ wnpa.com or by mail at WNPA, PO Box 389, Port Townsend, WA 98368.
“Newsy publication impressed me with its breadth of original reporting, interesting presentation and comprehensive coverage.”
News: 1,211 Photography: 313 Web: 25 General Excellence: 35 Number of Participating Newspapers: 59
BETTER NEWSPAPER CONTEST
About this publication
and compelling packages.”
was staggering. Job very well done.” “Fantastic use of art and color. Love the concept. This ad pops! It tells you everything you need to know. This ad has fun written all over it! Great job!
I started entering WNPA contests more than 30 years ago, and I’ve collected my share of awards. Over that time, the importance of
these awards has never diminished in my eyes. I have always held them in high esteem. The work we do in our communities is vitally important, especially today when fake news hawkers are so prevalent. We are needed more than ever, and the work in this contest proves we are up to the task. Again, I offer my congratulations. I’m proud to represent you at WNPA. Fred Obee is WNPA’s Executive Director.
DeVaul gets Turnbull award; Hussey wins Bradley honor Frank DeVaul, a long-time publisher from Southwest Washington, accepted the Miles Turnbull Master Editor/Publisher award at the WNPA luncheon Oct. 13, 2017. Frank, with his wife Judy, are publishers of the The East County Journal, the Tenino Independent and The Skamania County Pioneer. Frank was WNPA president in 1998. Frank and Judy are entrepreneurs. In addition to the newspapers, the couple operates a number of other businesses. Accepting the Dixie Lee Bradley award at the same luncheon was Darla Hussey of the Methow Valley News in Twisp. She is the go-to IT person for all of the paper’s operating systems. She’s the webmaster, Facebook page manager and she designs news and advertising materials. She helps out at the front desk with advertising and circulation inquiries, oversees all aspects of the production process, and takes a photo or two when the opportunity presents itself. Says her publisher: “She believes in what we do and makes everything we do better.”
Contents Advertising Division ...........................................................3-6 Special Sections ..................................................................7-8 News Division ...................................................................9-19 General Excellence ...........................................................10-11 Photography Division .......................................................20-23 Digital Division .....................................................................23
2 2017 WNPA BETTER NEWSPAPER CONTEST
Advertising Ad of the Year Groups 1 - 4
Third Place
Kelsey Thomas, John Rodriguez, Ariel Naumann Green Way Marijuana North Kitsap Herald
Second Place
Vanessa Calverley, Marleen Martinez Ace Hardware, Spring is Here Bainbridge Island Review
Third Place
Tera Redwine, Dana Moreno Moses Lake Chamber, 360 Degrees of Adventure Columbia Basin Herald
Best Single Ad for Single Advertiser, Promoting a Sale or Event: Smaller than 1/2-page Groups 1 & 2 First Place
Jessica Blancas Cave B Inn & Spa The Quincy Valley Post-Register
Second Place
Terry Hamberg Boulet Productions, Christmas Show Northern Kittitas County Tribune
Third Place
Casey Clark C.W. Barbershop Northern Kittitas County Tribune
Group 3
First Place
Ruth Lauman, Molly Ernst Subaru Specialty Show N Shine The Northern Light
Second Place
Wendy Fried Night Must Fall, Valley Center Stage Snoqualmie Valley Record
Third Place
Ruth Lauman, Molly Ernst Birch Bay Chamber Rollback Weekend The Northern Light
Group 4
First Place
Julie Black, Polly Shepherd Kent Wine Walk Kent Reporter
Second Place
Marcie Shannon, Cindy Ducich Jimmy Mac’s Brewery Night Federal Way Mirror
Third Place
Marcie Shannon, Kay Miller TechKnowHow, Summer Camps Federal Way Mirror
Diana Nelson Sammamish Day & Nights Issaquah/Sammamish Reporter
Bringing Class to Smoking Grass
First Place
Best Branding Ad: Single Ad for Single Advertiser Groups 1 & 2
HUNDREDS OF PRODUCTS FROM OVER 40+ PRODUCERS
First Place
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Cartridges & concentrates
FULL MENU ON
Glassware & Informative Accessories Sales Staff
Handicap Accessible
ATM on site
Micki Brass, Michelle Nedved Catering To You Newport Miner
Second Place
Vanessa Calverley, Marleen Martinez Buckley & Buckley Bainbridge Island Review
Third Place Ask about our Frequently High Loyalty Program OPEN 7 DAYS :: WEEKLY & DAILY SPECIALS
4851 Geiger Rd, Port Orchard | 360.443.6988 | www.greenwaymarijuana.com
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Mon-Sat 9-10 :: Sun 9-9
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WARNING: 1. This product has intoxicating effects and may be habit forming.; 2. Marijuana can impair concentration, coordination, and judgment. Do not operate a vehicle or machiner y under the influence of this drug.; 3. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product.; and, 4. For use only by adults twenty- one and older. Keep out of the reach of children.
Best Single Ad for Single Advertiser, Promoting a Sale or Event: 1/2-page or larger Groups 1 & 2 First Place
Vanessa Calverley, Marleen Martinez John L. Scott Eileen Black Bainbridge Island Review
Second Place
Erin Goodfellow Linds of Whidbey Island South Whidbey Record
Third Place
Terry Hamberg All Nations Heritage Night Northern Kittitas County Tribune
Group 3
Terry Hamberg Cannabis Superstore Northern Kittitas County Tribune
Groups 3 & 4 First Place
Lena Howe Rawson’s Back to School The Omak-Okanogan County Chronicle
Second Place
Kelsey Thomas, Ariel Naumann Root Cellar Port Orchard Independent
Third Place
Ruth Lauman, Catherine Darkenwald Farmstrong Brewing Company The Northern Light
Most Effective Use of Small Space (B/W or Color) Groups 1 & 2 First Place
Sherry LaVigne Chewelah Associated Physicians The Independent
First Place
Second Place
Second Place
Third Place
Theresa Murray Mariano’s Jewelry & Design Shelton-Mason County Journal Ruth Lauman, Molly Ernst Birch Bay Polar Bear Plunge The Northern Light
Third Place
Theresa Murray Shelton Health & Rehabilitation Shelton-Mason County Journal
Group 4
First Place
Kelsey Thomas, Rich Peterson The Deck Store Port Orchard Independent
Second Place
Marcie Shannon, Cindy Ducich PowelsWood Fuscia Days Federal Way Mirror
Brian Edwards Lotus Integrated Health Nisqually Valley News Darla Hussey Face Painting & Glitter Tattoos Methow Valley News
Group 3
First Place
Ruth Lauman, Janet McCall Lummi Seafood Market The Northern Light
Second Place
Ruth Lauman, Catherine Darkenwald Tulip Valley Winery The Northern Light
Third Place
Ruth Lauman, Janet McCall Ferndale Cherry Blossom Festival The Northern Light 2017 WNPA BETTER NEWSPAPER CONTEST 3
Advertising Community Service
Community Service
First Place
First Place
Groups 1, 2 & 3
Group 4
Nisqually Valley News Nicole Kiourkas Relay for Life
Port Orchard Independent Kelsey Thomas, Rich Peterson United Way of Kitsap Golf Classic
Second Place
Port Townsend Leader Lloyd Mullen, Marian Roh Jefferson County Public Health
Second Place
Daily Sun News Job Wise Free Movie Food Drive
Third Place
Federal Way Mirror Marcie Shannon, Cindy Ducich Casino Night
Third Place
Most Effective Use of Small Space (B/W or Color) Group 4 First Place
Kelsey Thomas, Ariel Naumann Los Agaves Mexican Food Port Orchard Independent
Second Place
Jennifer Anderson, Marcie Shannon Christmas Dessert Theatre Federal Way Mirror
Third Place
Cindy Ducich, Marcie Shannon Centerstage Theatre, Mark Twain Federal Way Mirror
Multiple-Advertiser Ad: 1 to 2 Full Pages Groups 1 & 2 First Place
Job Wise, Ileana Martinez, Elaine Schneider, Karen Zackula Sunnyside Christian High School Poster Daily Sun News
Second Place
Daralyn Anderson, Carrie Van Buren, Dennis Clouse Halloween Safety Game Vashon/Maury Island Beachcomber
Third Place
Daralyn Anderson, Nance Scott Go Seniors 2016 Vashon/Maury Island Beachcomber
Groups 3 & 4 First Place
Julie Black, Marie Skoor Mother’s Day Kent Reporter
Second Place
Ruth Lauman, Doug DeVisser, Molly Ernst, Louise Mugar Holiday Harbor Lights The Northern Light
4 2017 WNPA BETTER NEWSPAPER CONTEST
Federal Way Mirror Marcie Shannon, Cindy Ducich Jimmy Mac’s Food Drive
Third Place
Mark Gillespie, John Rodriguez, Priscilla Wakefield Fall Sports North Kitsap Herald
Ad Campaign for Single Advertiser (B/W or Color) Groups 1 & 2
Group 3
First Place
Catherine Brewer, Chris Hawley Jefferson County Vision Port Townsend Leader
Second Place
Theresa Murray Vaner Wal’s Garage Shelton-Mason County Journal
First Place
Third Place
Second Place
Group 4
Nicole Kiourkas Yelm Liquor Nisqually Valley News Micki Brass Smile Miracles Newport Miner
Third Place
Daralyn Anderson, Dennis Clouse Core Centric Personal Training Center Vashon/Maury Island Beachcomber
Katie Montanez, Kate Mackenzie Sunrise Chevrolet Detailing The Omak-Okanogan County Chronicle
First Place
Julie Black, Nicole Schultes Ignite Financial Kent Reporter
Second Place
Kae Lamberton, Lisa Yaskus-McLaren Reserve at Renton Renton Reporter
Third Place
Julie Black, Marie Skoor Kent Regional Fire Authority Kent Reporter
Use of Process Color, Full Page Ad Groups 1 & 2 First Place
Erin Goodfellow Gemkow Construction Island Home Living South Whidbey Record
Second Place
Nicole Kiourkas Jason’s Greenhouse Nisqually Valley News
Third Place
Vanessa Calverley, Marleen Martinez Happy Thanksgiving Bainbridge Island Review
Advertising Use of Process Color, Full Page Ad Groups 3 & 4
Use of Clip Art in Ad Groups 1 & 2
First Place
First Place
Ruth Lauman, Catherine Darkenwald Cinderella’s Secret The Northern Light
Elaine Schneider Barber Classes Daily Sun News
Second Place
Second Place
Third Place
Third Place
Use of Process Color, 1/2 Pg. or Larger Groups 1, 2 & 3
Group 3
Catherine Brewer, Scott Herning Autoworks Port Townsend Leader
Vanessa Calverley, Marleen Martinez Ace Hardware, Customer Appreciation Day Bainbridge Island Review
Jen Clark, Scott Herning Thunderbull Productions Port Townsend Leader
Erin Goodfellow Loyal Companions, Pet Services Group Ad South Whidbey Record
First Place
Ruth Lauman, Molly Ernst Wheel House Bar & Grill The Northern Light
First Place
Vanessa Calverley, Marleen Martinez Beyond the Report Card Bainbridge Island Review
Second Place
Mark Gillespie, Sharon Allen Blue Heron North Kitsap Herald
Third Place
Jen Clark, Scott Herning Swan School, Picnic on the Pier Port Townsend Leader
Second Place
Linda Frizzell Spooner Berry Farm, Strawberries Here Now Shelton-Mason County Journal
Third Place
Mark Gillespie, Bill McDonald Sport HAUS North Kitsap Herald
Group 4
Group 4
First Place
First Place
Kelsey Thomas, Ariel Naumann Keeping it Local Port Orchard Independent
Group 3
Marcie Shannon, Cindy Ducich Branches Garden Center Federal Way Mirror
First Place
Second Place
Diana Nelson, Sonny Ebalo Summer Fun Guide Redmond Reporter
Second Place
Third Place
Jennifer Anderson, Marcie Shannon East India, Big Game Federal Way Mirror
Third Place
Second Place
Third Place
Use of Process Color, Smaller than 1/2 Page Groups 1 & 2 First Place
Ruth Lauman, Janet McCall The Oyster Bar on Chuckanut Drive The Northern Light Ruth Lauman, Catherine Darkenwald Chuckanut Brewery The Northern Light Vanessa Calverley Barna & Co. North Kitsap Herald
Casey Clark Cle Elum-Roslyn School District, Honoring Our Veterans Northern Kittitas County Tribune
Group 4
Vanessa Calverley, Marleen Martinez Peacock Family Services Bainbridge Island Review
Second Place
Nicole Kiourkas Mountain Meadow Lavender Nisqually Valley News
Third Place
Second Place
Third Place
5 2017 WNPA BETTER NEWSPAPER CONTEST
First Place
Julie Black, Polly Shepherd Help Vitalize your Downtown Kent Reporter Marcie Shannon, Kay Miller Guadalajara, Grand Opening Federal Way Mirror
Promotion of Newspaper, Single House Ad Groups 1 & 2 First Place
Terry Hamberg Community, Delivered Every Thursday Northern Kittitas County Tribune
Marcie Shannon, Cindy Ducich Centerstage, Red Riding Hood Federal Way Mirror
Second Place
John Rodriguez, Priscilla Wakefield Lockheed Martin Central Kitsap Reporter
Third Place
Marcie Shannon, Cindy Ducich PowelsWood, Mother’s Day Federal Way Mirror
Terry Hamberg Merry Christmas from the Tribune Staff Northern Kittitas County Tribune Terry Hamberg What Does 2017 Hold For The Upper County? Northern Kittitas County Tribune
Advertising Third Place
Pinnacle Award
Mark Gillespie, Bill McDonald Coast Hardware North Kitsap Herald
Jonel Lyons Sequim Gazette
Humor in Advertising Groups 1 & 2 First Place
WNPA manages a statewide network for small black and white impact ads. The Pinnacle Award is given to the WNPA member who records the highest revenue numbers in sales of these ads.
Nicole Kiourkas Attwood’s Auto Sales Nisqually Valley News
Groups 3 & 4 First Place
Mark Gillespie, Bill McDonald Dahlquist’s Fine Jewelry North Kitsap Herald
The award comes with a $1,000 check. The contest runs from the Monday after the fall convention through Sept. 30 the following year.
Promotion of Newspaper, Single House Ad Group 3 First Place
Mark Gillespie, Donna Etchey The Last Page of 2016 North Kitsap Herald
Second Place
Jen Clark, Scott Herning Join 15,000 Neighbors, Subscribe Port Townsend Leader
Third Place
Will Adams Time for a Refill Shelton-Mason County Journal
Second Place
Shawna Whelan, Will Adams, Dave Pierik, John Lester Highclimbers Bowling Varsity Shelton-Mason County Journal
Group 4
First Place
Marcie Shannon Join Our Team! Federal Way Mirror
Second Place
Marcie Shannon Best of Federal Way Invite Federal Way Mirror
Third Place
Marcie Shannon Game Page Federal Way Mirror
Most Original Idea Groups 1 & 2 First Place
Brad Skiff, Karen Zackula, Staff Seahawks Forever Daily Sun News
Second Place
Jessica Blancas Quincy Animal Shelter The Quincy Valley Post-Register
Third Place
Terry Hamberg Cannabis Superstore, Comfort & Joy Northern Kittitas County Tribune
Groups 3 & 4 First Place
Julie Black, Polly Shepherd Help Vitalize your Downtown Kent Reporter
Second Place
Mark Gillespie, Mary Mollahan Liberty Bay Auto Center, Gift of Shine North Kitsap Herald
6 2017 WNPA BETTER NEWSPAPER CONTEST
Third Place
Jen Clark, Scott Herning Uptown Pub Port Townsend Leader
Youth-Oriented Content Groups 1 - 4 First Place
Ruth Lauman, Doug DeVisser, Louise Mugar Borderite Report The Northern Light
Second Place
Ruth Lauman, Doug DeVisser, Louise Mugar Bay Builders The Northern Light
Third Place
Erin Goodfellow Brandon Biehler DMD, Falcon Sports Guide South Whidbey Record
Special Sections
Topical-In Paper/Non-Tourism Special Sections Groups 1 & 2 First Place
Staff Relay for Life 2016 Northern Kittitas County Tribune
Second Place
Jennie McGhan Mat Classic Daily Sun News
Third Place
Philip Watness Prepare Skamania County Pioneer
Group 3
First Place
Dennis Box Emerald Downs 20th Anniversary The Courier-Herald
Second Place
Marian Roh, Local Kids Perspectives Port Townsend Leader
Third Place
Ruth Lauman Wings over Water The Northern Light
Group 4
First Place
Staff College & University Costs and Resources El Mundo
Second Place
Marcie Shannon, Kay Miller, Cindy Ducich Red White & Blues Federal Way Mirror
7 2017 WNPA BETTER NEWSPAPER CONTEST
Third Place
Second Place
Tourism/Community Guide Special Sections Group 1
Third Place
Staff State Elections, Know Your Candidates El Mundo
First Place
Staff Springtide Journal of the San Juan Islands
Second Place
Scott Hunter, Gwen Hilson, Roger Lucas, Jacob Wagner Grand Coulee Dam Visitors’ Guide 2017-2018 The Star
Third Place
Staff Visitors Guide 2016-2017 The Quincy Valley Post-Register
Group 2
First Place
Staff Made in the Methow Methow Valley News
Second Place
Staff Methow Valley Winter 2016-2017 Methow Valley News
Third Place
Rebecca Sedlak, John Bruijn Our Coast 2017 Chinook Observer
Groups 3 & 4 First Place
Staff Whidbey and Fidalgo Islander Whidbey News-Times
Kara Furr Dennison, Doug DeVisser, Ruth Lauman, Louise Mugar Waterside 2017 The Northern Light Staff North Olympic Peninsula Visitor’s Guide, Spring/Summer 2017 Sequim Gazette
Lifestyle/Culture Special Sections Group 1 First Place
Sebastian Moraga, Jeannie Moraga, Jessica Blancas, Dave Burgess Bridal Guide The Quincy Valley Post-Register
Second Place
Dave Burgess, Jeannie Moraga, Jessica Blancas, Sebastian Moraga Spring Home and Garden 2017 The Quincy Valley Post-Register
Third Place
Colleen Smith Armstrong, Mandi Johnson, Shane Watson Women in Business Islands’ Sounder
Group 2
First Place
Staff Living with Alzheimer’s: The Reddington Project Methow Valley News
Second Place
Staff Living with Fire Methow Valley News
Special Sections
Lifestyle/Culture Special Sections Third Place
Staff 2017 Methow Home Methow Valley News
Groups 3 & 4 First Place
Kara Furr Dennison, Louise Mugar, Doug DeVisser, Ruth Lauman Pacific Coast Weddings 2017 The Northern Light
Second Place
Oliver Lazenby, Doug DeVisser, Stefanie Donahue, Pat Grubb Mount Baker Experience, Spring 2017 The Northern Light
Third Place
Patricia Morrison Coate Living on the Peninsula: Explore your National Park Sequim Gazette
Special Events/Festivals Special Sections Groups 1 & 2 First Place
Jill FitzSimmons, Jessica Blancas, Sebastian Moraga, Sunshine Didra 2016 George Crier The Quincy Valley Post-Register
Second Place
Staff Sports Preview, Spring Season Newport Miner
Group 3
First Place
Staff Western Rendezvous The Omak-Okanogan County Chronicle
8 2017 WNPA BETTER NEWSPAPER CONTEST
Second Place
Leslie Kelly, John Rodriguez Military Appreciation Day North Kitsap Herald
Group 4
First Place
Leslie Kelly 125 Years of Puget Sound Naval Shipyard Central Kitsap Reporter
Second Place
Cale Johnson Fall Sports 2016 The Reflector
Best Special Section Cover Groups 1 & 2 First Place
Group 3
First Place
Marian Roh Jefferson County Profile 2017 Port Townsend Leader
Second Place
Staff Profile Shelton-Mason County Journal
Third Place
Staff Visitor’s Guide Shelton-Mason County Journal
Group 4
First Place
John Rodriguez Military Appreciation Day Central Kitsap Reporter
Darla Hussey Methow Valley Winter Methow Valley News
Second Place
Briana Alzola, Joan Pringle, Kimberly Jacobson, Colette Weeks 2016 Holiday Guide Anacortes American
Third Place
Second Place
Third Place
Darla Hussey Methow Valley Summer Methow Valley News
John Rodriguez The Northwest Chronicle Central Kitsap Reporter John Rodriguez The Northwest Chronicle Port Orchard Independent
News 2017 SPORTS WRITER OF THE YEAR
2017 NEWS WRITER OF THE YEAR
2017 FEATURE WRITER OF THE YEAR
Groups 1 - 4
Groups 1 - 4
Groups 1 - 4
First Place
Dan Trujillo Camas-Washougal Post-Record
First Place
Brianna Loper Shelton-Mason County Journal
First Place
Bob Smith Port Orchard Independent
Second Place
Second Place
Second Place
Third Place
Third Place
Third Place
Best News Story, Long Group 1
Group 4
Third Place
Nick Elges Lynden Tribune David Pan Edmonds Beacon
First Place
Colleen Smith Armstrong Reality of Heroin Addiction Islands’ Sounder
Second Place
Cali Bagby, Colleen Smith Armstrong Survivors Speak out Against Sex Crimes Journal of the San Juan Islands
Third Place
Mandi Johnson Homeless in Paradise Islands’ Sounder
Group 2
First Place
Justin Burnett Maxwelton’s Dirty Fix South Whidbey Record
Second Place
Natalie St. John Locals Fear Deportation after Arrests Chinook Observer
Third Place
Sarah Low New Law Brings Suicide Prevention and Gun Rights Activists Together Vashon/Maury Island Beachcomber
Group 3
First Place
Brian Soergel Rocking the Boat Edmonds Beacon
Second Place
Michael Dashiell Sequim Man Critically Hurt in Mexico Sequim Gazette
Third Place
Allison Arthur Out in the Open: Cannabis Grower aims for Sustainability Port Townsend Leader
9 2017 WNPA BETTER NEWSPAPER CONTEST
Steve Hunter Kent Reporter Michael Heinbach Shelton-Mason County Journal
First Place
Steve Powell, Douglas Buell Women Firefighters The Marysville Globe
Second Place
Catherine Krummey, Samantha Pak, Allison DeAngelis Eastside Police Departments Examine Future of Proactive Policing Kirkland Reporter
Third Place
Allison DeAngelis Homeowners Left High and Dry after Sewage Line Backup Bellevue Reporter
Best News Story, Short Group 1 First Place
Sandy Stokes Covert Operation Illuminates Bridge La Conner Weekly News
Second Place
Dave Burgess Intermodal Facility eyed for Waste Shipments The Quincy Valley Post-Register
Jessica Shelton Bainbridge Island Review Patricia Guthrie Whidbey News-Times
Sophia Aldous Wolves Still a Fanged Issue Newport Miner
Group 3
First Place
Ruth Bayang Community Leaders Urge WSU officials to Reinstate Player Robert Barber Northwest Asian Weekly
Second Place
Ruth Bayang 30-day Clause to Remove Homeless moves to Committee Northwest Asian Weekly
Third Place
Stacy Nguyen Vegan or Vegetarian? Questions arise Surrounding Chinese Menu Northwest Asian Weekly
Group 4
First Place
Raechel Dawson City Focused on Gaps in Homeless Services Federal Way Mirror
Third Place
Second Place
Group 2
Third Place
Ashley Hiruko Recall Effort Starts against Sen. Ericksen Ferndale Record
First Place
Ann McCreary Uneasy Riders Methow Valley News
Second Place
Jessica Shelton Winner, Winner, White House Dinner Bainbridge Island Review
Jonathan Haukaas Miscommunication Leads to Flooding on Road The Reflector Ryan Murray South Asians Lead Resistance to Hate Crimes Bellevue Reporter
General Excellence Group 1 First Place The Chewelah Independent Staff Second Place Ferndale Record Staff Third Place Islands’ Sounder Colleen Armstrong, Mandi Johnson, Shane Watson
Group 2 First Place Chinook Observer Matt Winters Second Place Bainbridge Island Review Staff Third Place Newport Miner Staff
10 2017 WNPA BETTER NEWSPAPER CONTEST
General Excellence Group 3 First Place Shelton-Mason County Journal Staff Second Place Sequim Gazette Michael Dashiell, Matthew Nash, Patricia Morrison Coate, Mary Field Third Place Bremerton Patriot Staff
Group 4 First Place The Marysville Globe Steve Powell, Douglas Buell, Brandon Adam, Kirk Boxleitner Second Place Port Orchard Independent Staff Third Place Renton Reporter Brian Beckley, Leah Abraham, Polly Shepherd
2017 WNPA BETTER NEWSPAPER CONTEST 11
News Best Breaking News Story Groups 1 & 2 First Place
Natalie St. John Push Comes to Shove Chinook Observer
Second Place
Gary DeVon Navy Helicopter Rescues Hiker Okanogan Valley Gazette-Tribune
Third Place
Joan Pringle Shell Refinery Halts Rail Project Anacortes American
Groups 3 & 4 First Place
Kirk Boxleitner Sailboat Captain, ‘Pirate’ Calls Coast Guard for Help Port Townsend Leader
Second Place
Brian Soergel Drive Takes Tragic Turn Edmonds Beacon
Third Place
Oliver Lazenby Customs & Border Patrol Supervisor Arrested after Fireworks Explosion The Northern Light
Best Health or Medical Story Group 1 First Place
Sebastian Moraga You Can Pause but Never Stop The Quincy Valley Post-Register
Second Place
Courtney Oldwyn Sniffing out Parkinson’s Journal of the San Juan Islands
Third Place
Dave Burgess Plan Emerges for Medical Center The Quincy Valley Post-Register
Group 2
First Place
Group 3
First Place
Terryl Asla CPR Saved Life of Ex-Marine North Kitsap Herald
Second Place
Brianna Loper Bringing ‘Difficult Subject’ into Conversation Shelton-Mason County Journal
Third Place
Brianna Loper A Local Fix to Save Lives Shelton-Mason County Journal
Group 4
First Place
Samantha Pak Cardiac Arrest Survivor Pays it Back on Soccer Field Redmond Reporter
Second Place
Andy Nystrom One Tough, Inspirational Mustang Redmond Reporter
Third Place
Joe Livarchik Understanding Suicidal Youth Issaquah/Sammamish Reporter
Best Environmental Story Group 1 First Place
Mandi Johnson Permit for Gateway Pacific Terminal Denied Islands’ Sounder
Second Place
Philip Watness National Forest is a Dumping Ground for Garbage Skamania County Pioneer
Third Place
Heather Spaulding Where have all the Salmon Gone? Journal of the San Juan Islands
Group 2
First Place
Sam Liebl Battling the Beetle Invasion Methow Valley News
Kyle Jensen Death with Dignity South Whidbey Record
Second Place
Nick Twietmeyer Health Study on Rubber Turf under Scrutiny Bainbridge Island Review
Third Place
Marcy Stamper Low Immunization Rate worries Health Officials Methow Valley News
Groups 3 & 4
Second Place
Third Place
Ann McCreary Large Scale Restoration Methow Valley News Natalie St. John Rare Deer Still Struggle Chinook Observer
Second Place
Nicholas Johnson Mukilteo Man reels in National Conservation Award Mukilteo Beacon
Third Place
Brian Soergel Snowmageddon Edmonds Beacon
Best Business News Story (incl. Technology and Agriculture) Group 1 First Place
Courtney Oldwyn Ferry Food Fight Hits the Streets Journal of the San Juan Islands
Second Place
Gary DeVon Gebbers and Chelan Fruit Step in to Help Okanogan Valley Gazette-Tribune
Third Place
Gary DeVon Gold Digger Apples Files for Bankruptcy Protection Okanogan Valley Gazette-Tribune
Group 2
First Place
Don Gronning Service Dog Conflict at Priest Lake Newport Miner
Second Place
Luke Whittaker Commercial Fishing Update: Dungeness Crab maintain Economic Grip Chinook Observer
Third Place
Don Nelson Charting the Methow Valley’s Eclectic Economy Methow Valley News
Groups 3 & 4 First Place
Sophie Bonomi Back Rent vs. Black Mold North Kitsap Herald
Second Place
Nicholas Johnson Electroimpact’s Zieve says he’s Victim of State’s Probe Mukilteo Beacon
Third Place
Allison Arthur Inn: Half for Halves, Half for Have-nots Port Townsend Leader
First Place
Erin Hawkins Saving the Hemlock Sequim Gazette 2017 WNPA BETTER NEWSPAPER CONTEST 12
News Community Service First Place
Bremerton Patriot Leslie Kelly, Staff Puget Sound Naval Shipyard’s 125th
Special section commemorating the 125th anniversary of Puget Sound Naval Shipyard. Second Place
Port Orchard Independent Bob Smith, Terryl Asla Homelessness in Kitsap County
Multi-story effort examining homelessness, its causes and possible solutions.
Best Business Feature Story (includes Technology and Agriculture) Group 1 First Place
Philip Watness Mill Embarks on Game-changing Upgrade Skamania County Pioneer
Second Place
Sebastian Moraga Longtime Barber Tries on a Different Kind of Grooming The Quincy Valley Post-Register
Group 2
First Place
Luke Whittaker Blessing & Curse: Rain Sustains, Threatens Rose Ranch Chinook Observer
Second Place
Jessica Shelton Tuesdays with Melinda: BIMA Bistro Chef Makes Dinner a Foreign Adventure Bainbridge Island Review
Third Place
Ann McCreary Looking for a Home on the Range Methow Valley News
Group 3
First Place
Brianna Loper Six Decades of Helping Animals Shelton-Mason County Journal
Second Place
Stacy Nguyen The Making of a Serial Entrepreneur Northwest Asian Weekly
13 2017 WNPA BETTER NEWSPAPER CONTEST
Third Place
Tiffany Ran New Bill brings Cultural Competency to Food Inspection Northwest Asian Weekly
Group 4
First Place
Group 2
First Place
Marcy Stamper Self-navigation in the Wide-open Digital World Methow Valley News
Second Place
Marcy Stamper Outdoor Classroom Methow Valley News
Ryan Murray Bellevue Vacuum Closes its Doors Bellevue Reporter
Third Place
Leah Abraham Card Shop Owner Hosts Autograph Sessions for Charity Renton Reporter
Group 3
Second Place
Third Place
Cale Johnson Hair Stylist takes Creative Talents to Whole Other Level The Reflector
Best Education Story Group 1 First Place
Maria Matson Day One on the Road to High School Graduation La Conner Weekly News
Second Place
Colleen Smith Armstrong School and Parents Correct Classroom Disruptions Islands’ Sounder
Third Place
Hayley Day Schoolhouse Rock Journal of the San Juan Islands
John Fannin Educational Cancer Daily Sun News
First Place
Nicholas Johnson Bond’s Defeat Demands Dialogue Port Townsend Leader
Second Place
Ron Newberry On Top of the World Whidbey News-Times
Third Place
Sophie Bonomi Wolfle Symphony to Perform at Benaroya North Kitsap Herald
Group 4
First Place
Heidi Sanders Troubles at Green River College Kent Reporter
Second Place
Leah Abraham IB Class Hard Work Finally Paid Off Renton Reporter
News Best Education Story Third Place
Jessica Keller Elementary Curriculum helps Teachers, Students Find Success Federal Way Mirror
Best Government Reporting Group 1 First Place
Gary DeVon Commissioners Spend Nearly $90K in One Month Fighting Lawsuit Okanogan Valley Gazette-Tribune
Second Place
Sandy Stokes This Government is Closed to the Public La Conner Weekly News
Third Place
Hayley Day Clash over Tides Journal of the San Juan Islands
Group 2
First Place
Marcy Stamper Legislative Efforts Produce Mixed Results Methow Valley News
Second Place
Natalie St. John Place to go for Mail-order Divorces Chinook Observer
Third Place
Ann McCreary Newhouse in absentia at Public Meeting Methow Valley News
Group 3
First Place
Tony Buhr Shady Acres Residents Speak Out Daily Record
Second Place
Kirk Boxleitner Sanctuary Debate On Port Townsend Leader
Third Place
Stefanie Donahue Dissonance among NWFR Commissioners Swells The Northern Light
Group 4
First Place
Rick Bannan The Columbia River Conundrum The Reflector
Second Place
Ana Karen Perez Guzman, Ray Still City Council Power Struggle Continues Covington/Maple Valley/Black Diamond Reporter
Third Place
Third Place
Best Crime and Court Story Group 1
Comprehensive Coverage of a Single Issue or Series Group 1
Robert Whale Long-neglected Property Auburn Reporter
First Place
Angelo Bruscas Burglaries Spark Citizen Concern North Coast News
Second Place
Colleen Smith Armstrong Colton Harris-Moore Islands’ Sounder
Third Place
Colleen Smith Armstrong Claim that Orcas Couple Embezzled Islands’ Sounder
Group 2
First Place
Natalie St. John Car Destroys Mobile Home Chinook Observer
Second Place
Brian Kelly 911 Recording Prompts Arrest of Security Guard Bainbridge Island Review
Third Place
Jennie McGhan Bail Set at $25K for Teacher Daily Sun News
Group 3
First Place
Raechel Dawson Sixth Murder of 2016 Shakes Community Federal Way Mirror
First Place
Heather Spaulding, Hayley Day The Fate of Orcas in our Waters Journal of the San Juan Islands
Second Place
Colleen Smith Armstrong, Courtney Oldwyn, Cali Bagby, Hayley Day Teacher Accused of Sexual Misconduct Islands’ Sounder
Third Place
Philip Watness Cannabis Grow Operation Focuses on Medical Market Skamania County Pioneer
Group 2
First Place
Ann McCreary Forest Health Series Methow Valley News
Second Place
Paul Delaney Pure Joy: It’s No Longer your Father’s Marijuana Cheney Free Press
Third Place
Justin Burnett South Whidbey Ferry South Whidbey Record
Stacy Nguyen A Life Taken and Other Lives Forever Changed Northwest Asian Weekly
Group 3
Nicholas Johnson Victims’ Loved Ones Express Anguish over Mass Shooting Mukilteo Beacon
Second Place
Second Place
Third Place
Steve Powell Conductor Railroaded Arlington Times
Group 4
First Place
Samantha Pak Local Law Enforcement Respond to Dallas Shooting Redmond Reporter
Second Place
Joe Livarchik Residents Speak Out after Claim of Raciallymotivated Incident Issaquah/Sammamish Reporter
First Place
Alexandria Valdez Concussions in Youth Sports Shelton-Mason County Journal Mark Briant Bremerton’s 125th anniversary Bremerton Patriot
Third Place
Terryl Asla, Sophie Bonomi The Story behind “Aluminum Overcast” North Kitsap Herald
Group 4
First Place
Bob Smith Tight Housing Market Port Orchard Independent
Second Place
Allison DeAngelis Agency Cuts all Head Start Funding Bellevue Reporter
2017 WNPA BETTER NEWSPAPER CONTEST 14
News Comprehensive Coverage of a Single Issue Second Place or Series Danielle Frost Third Place
John William Howard Two-part Series on Heroin Kirkland Reporter
Investigative Reporting Groups 1 & 2 First Place
Sandy Stokes Tribal Lawyers Influenced State Tax Policy La Conner Weekly News
Second Place
Natalie St. John Litigious Candidate is an Anti-government Activitist Chinook Observer
Third Place
Natalie St. John Leaders Slow to Respond to Domestic Violence Allegations Chinook Observer
Groups 3 & 4 First Place
Jessie Stensland Treatment Didn’t Stop Alleged Cascade Mall Shooter Whidbey News-Times
Second Place
Andrew Davis Addiction: Love, Hope and Tragedy Shelton-Mason County Journal
Third Place
Steve Powell Why the Firing? Arlington Times
Best General Feature Story, Long Group 1 First Place
Anna Ferdinand Coping in the Margins: Troubled Youth Rewrite their Futures La Conner Weekly News
Second Place
Judy Booth Adventures on the Road in a Cuban Taxi Colectivo La Conner Weekly News
Third Place
Angelo Bruscas Sand and Sawdust Still Together North Coast News
Group 2
First Place
Marcy Stamper Help from All Over Methow Valley News
15 2017 WNPA BETTER NEWSPAPER CONTEST
Wheel in the Sky Camas-Washougal Post-Record
Second Place
Ann McCreary Bailing Twine a Fatal Attraction for Osprey Methow Valley News
Third Place
Third Place
Group 3
Group 3
Jessica Shelton Good Grief Bainbridge Island Review
First Place
Allison Arthur Homeless Vet Becomes a Suicide Statistic Port Townsend Leader
Second Place
Ann McCreary Lofty Solitude Methow Valley News
First Place
Ron Newberry Sheep Barn Placed on State Heritage Barn Register Whidbey News-Times
Allison Arthur A Tiny House for Ruby Port Townsend Leader
Second Place
Oliver Lazenby Ski to Sea with the Wetboyz The Northern Light
Third Place
Third Place
Group 4
First Place
Megan Campbell Seattle’s “Gateway to the Orient” Issaquah/Sammamish Reporter
Second Place
Nicole Jennings Museum Solves 30-year Family History Mystery Issaquah/Sammamish Reporter
Third Place
Mark Klaas Honoring a Forgotten Kent Reporter
Best General Feature Story, Short Group 1 First Place
Angelo Bruscas Quinault Big Cedar Finally Falls North Coast News
Second Place
Maria Matson The Norwester brings John Wayne to La Conner La Conner Weekly News
Third Place
Sebastian Moraga Dry Falls Redefines Awesome The Quincy Valley Post-Register
Group 2
First Place
Katie Metzger Two Islanders Celebrate 100th Birthdays Today Mercer Island Reporter
Jacqueline Allison One of the Best Barns Port Townsend Leader Ray Still Bonney Lake Mayor Opens Scholarship Foundation The Courier-Herald
Group 4
First Place
Ana Karen Perez Guzman Covington Man helps Bring a Wish to Life Covington/Maple Valley/Black Diamond Reporter
Second Place
Heidi Sanders Special Delivery Kent Reporter
Third Place
Leah Abraham Veterans Transform Farm Providing Equine Therapy for Vets with PTSD Renton Reporter
Best Lifestyle Feature Story Group 2 First Place
Juli Goetz Morser Living Life with Cancer Vashon/Maury Island Beachcomber
Second Place
Juli Goetz Morser Island Woman earns Triple Crown of Hiking Vashon/Maury Island Beachcomber
Third Place
Marcy Stamper Firearms Training Methow Valley News
Group 3
First Place
Stacy Nguyen Young Artists Harness the Power of Bruce Lee Northwest Asian Weekly
News Best Lifestyle Feature Story Second Place
Sarah Sharp Quilting is More than a Job The Northern Light
Second Place
Stacy Nguyen Vietnamese Newspaper Publisher urges Stronger Community Voice Northwest Asian Weekly
Third Place
Third Place
Group 4
Group 4
Tiffany Ran Meals on Wheels Test Drives Asian Menu Northwest Asian Weekly
First Place
Raechel Dawson Hike It Baby Helps Moms Recharge Federal Way Mirror
Second Place
Jessica Keller Students Breaking Fashion Barriers with Clothing Line Federal Way Mirror
Third Place
Bob Smith Vlist’s Motor is Purring like a Dream Port Orchard Independent
Best Personality Profile, Long Group 1 First Place
Sebastian Moraga Requiem for a Good Sport The Quincy Valley Post-Register
Nicholas Johnson Artist Hopkins calls Mukilteo Home Mukilteo Beacon
First Place
Ann McCreary Saving Something for Themselves Methow Valley News
Second Place
Bob Smith Two Old Geezers Port Orchard Independent
Best Personality Profile, Short Group 1 First Place
Colleen Smith Armstrong Stamper: You can’t Arrest Yourself out of Social Problems Islands’ Sounder Sebastian Moraga Wenatchee’s Pybus Market a Hangout Spot The Quincy Valley Post-Register Mandi Johnson Melinda Milligan is Retiring Islands’ Sounder
Group 2
First Place
Juli Goetz Morser Art Legacy: Daughter of Island Artist Exhibits her Work Vashon/Maury Island Beachcomber
Anneli Fogt Young Farmer ventures into Field with Humanitarian Perspective Vashon/Maury Island Beachcomber
Second Place
Luke Whittaker Yellow Jacket Hunter Chinook Observer
Third Place
Third Place
Group 3
First Place
Nicholas Johnson A Pastor’s Pride: When Tony Brown took a Leap of Faith Port Townsend Leader
Group 4
First Place
Terryl Asla His Last Tall Ship Central Kitsap Reporter
Third Place
Third Place
Third Place
First Place
Terryl Asla Missing Monday Mary North Kitsap Herald
Mark Klaas Preparing Future Kent Reporter
Third Place
Group 2
Third Place
Second Place
Second Place
Second Place
Brandon Hansen Remembering Don The Independent
Matt Carstens Nick on the Rocks Daily Record
Sara Miller Anne Kennedy: Beautiful Reflections Port Orchard Independent
Second Place
Heather Spaulding The Kozloff Legacy Journal of the San Juan Islands
Second Place
Kyle Jensen Langley do-it-yourselfer juggles Businesses, Hobbies South Whidbey Record Juli Goetz Morser Island Artist Constructs New Work out of Old Objects Vashon/Maury Island Beachcomber
Group 3
First Place
Gordon Weeks Iconic Model: “I was an Ice Cream Sundae” Shelton-Mason County Journal
Leah Abraham Bullied Fourth Grader Promotes Inclusion Renton Reporter Leah Abraham Ringing the Bells Renton Reporter
Best Story on the Arts Group 1 First Place
Anna Ferdinand Seeking Redemption through Poetry La Conner Weekly News
Group 2
First Place
Amy Nile Ban Beat: Iranian Novelist Makes it to Oysterville Chinook Observer
Second Place
Ann McCreary ‘Beeest’ takes wing in Twisp Commons Park Methow Valley News
Third Place
Luciano Marano Drawn from History: WWII Graphic Novel of Six Nisei Soldiers Bainbridge Island Review
Group 3
First Place
Brian Soergel David Martin: Edmonds’ Mr. Early Northwest Art Edmonds Beacon
Second Place
Vivian Nguyen Breaking the Bamboo Ceiling Northwest Asian Weekly
Third Place
Nicholas Johnson Kamiak Alum Composes a Career in Music Mukilteo Beacon
2017 WNPA BETTER NEWSPAPER CONTEST 16
News Best Story on the Arts Group 4 First Place
Group 4
First Place
David Boehmke Dec. 28, 2016, Pallets The Reflector
Leah Abraham Art Series a Healing Process from Abuse Renton Reporter
Second Place
Leah Abraham “Trapped” chronicles Journey of Transgender Woman Renton Reporter
Third Place
Second Place
Third Place
Ryan Murray Strategies for Survival Bellevue Reporter
Best Feature Page Design Group 1 First Place
Sarah Brenden Jun. 24, 2016, In The Kitchen Covington/Maple Valley/Black Diamond Reporter Michelle Beahm Jul. 15, 2016, Kitsap ROCKS Central Kitsap Reporter
Best Front Page Design Group 1 First Place
Brandon Hansen Jan. 5, 2017, Gathering for Don The Independent
Greg Sellentin Feb. 1, 2017, Kids learn the Magic Journal of the San Juan Islands
Second Place
Mandi Johnson, Colleen Smith Armstrong Dec. 14, 2016, Return of the Sun Islands’ Sounder
Third Place
Second Place
Third Place
Mandi Johnson Jan. 4, 2017, Naughty Pirates of Neverland Islands’ Sounder
Group 2
First Place
Brandon Hansen Jan. 26, 2017, On the March The Independent Brandon Hansen Feb. 9, 2017, Battling Drugs The Independent
Group 2
First Place
Nicole Kiourkas, Michael Wagar Dec. 9, 2016, New Blood Nisqually Valley News
Brian Kelly Aug. 5, 2016, Bainbridge’s Big Artsy Weekend Bainbridge Island Review
Second Place
Brian Kelly Apr. 15, 2016, What’s so funny? Bainbridge Island Review
Third Place
Second Place
Third Place
Nicole Kiourkas, Michael Wagar Jul. 1, 2016, Prairie Days Nisqually Valley News
Group 3
First Place
Nicole Kiourkas, Michael Wagar Nov. 11, 2016, Election Results Nisqually Valley News Darla Hussey Jan. 25, 2017, Women’s March Methow Valley News
Group 3
First Place
Mark Gillespie Mar. 31, 2017, Kitsap Weekly, Taste Fresh North Kitsap Herald
Katie Kowalski Feb. 8, 2017, Identity into Focus Port Townsend Leader
Second Place
Michael Dashiell Mar. 15, 2017, Cycling Through History Sequim Gazette
Third Place
Second Place
Third Place
Michael Dashiell Mar. 8, 2017, Journey to South America Sequim Gazette
Mark Gillespie Oct. 7, 2016, Kitsap Weekly, Embrace North Kitsap Herald Adam Rudnick Nov. 10, 2016, Election Results Shelton-Mason County Journal
Group 4
First Place
Marcie Shannon May 13, 2016, Three Murders in 48 Hours Federal Way Mirror
17 2017 WNPA BETTER NEWSPAPER CONTEST
Second Place
David Boehmke Mar. 8, 2017, Columbia River Conundrum The Reflector
Third Place
John Rodriguez Mar. 3, 2017, Kitsap Weekly, The Day Kingston Was Bombed Central Kitsap Reporter
News of the Weird Groups 1 & 2 First Place
Natalie St. John Shroom Case Appeal Verdict Chinook Observer
Second Place
Natalie St. John Phone Fail Flummoxes a Felon Chinook Observer
Third Place
Kyle Jensen A Heavenly Meal South Whidbey Record
Group 3
First Place
Jessie Stensland Scary Clown Sightings Creep into Oak Harbor Whidbey News-Times
Second Place
Carol Ladwig Looking for Bigfoot Snoqualmie Valley Record
Third Place
Jessie Stensland Duck & Cover Whidbey News-Times
Group 4
First Place
Catherine Krummey Bellevue Man admits to Decapitating Duck Kirkland Reporter
Second Place
Mark Klaas Penguins Migrate Kent Reporter
Third Place
Allison DeAngelis Police Respond to 911 Calls, Discover 100+ Pokemon Go Players Bellevue Reporter
Best Sports News Story Groups 1 & 2 First Place
Brian Kelly State Champs!!! Bainbridge Island Review
Second Place
Tyler Huey Remembering Jesse Nisqually Valley News
News Best Sports News Story
Third Place
Third Place
Ryan Kuhn Kittitas Senior Embraces Baseball with a Heart Condition Daily Record
Don Nelson Simply XCellent Methow Valley News
Group 3
Group 4
First Place
First Place
Michael Dashiell Wolves nab Six Medals at State Sequim Gazette
Jerod Young Delacruz Family Deeply Rooted in Local Baseball Federal Way Mirror
Second Place
David Pan Mavericks Win State Championship Edmonds Beacon
Second Place
Michael Dashiell Eatonville Upends Sequim Sequim Gazette
Third Place
John William Howard “Linewoman” is breaking gender stereotypes Kirkland Reporter
Third Place
Sarah Brenden Valentine Returns to Coach his Alma Mater Covington/Maple Valley/Black Diamond Reporter
Group 4
First Place
Shaun Scott Spartans capture King County Soccer Title Issaquah/Sammamish Reporter
Second Place
Group 4
Cale Johnson La Center Softball Wins First State Title The Reflector
First Place
Mark Klaas Taking a Closer Look Auburn Reporter
Second Place
Third Place
Best Sports Feature Groups 1 & 2 First Place
Mandi Donohue Rarified Atmosphere Methow Valley News
Second Place
Paul Delaney Cheney’s Boys of Fall Cheney Free Press
Third Place
Sarah Low Former Junior Rowers Compete in Regatta Together Vashon/Maury Island Beachcomber
Group 3
First Place
Ryan Kuhn The Blowout Dilemma Daily Record
Second Place
First Place
Job Wise, Manny Dimas May 3, 2016, Faith and Football Daily Sun News
Jerod Young Schneider Lives out Gymnastics Dream Federal Way Mirror
Second Place
Mark Klaas Up from the Ashes Auburn Reporter
Third Place
Third Place
Michelle Beahm It’s Fun, Hard and You Can Hit People Central Kitsap Reporter
Best Sports Personality Profile Groups 1 & 2 First Place
Luciano Marano High School Athletic Trainer Protects, Inspires on and off the Field Bainbridge Island Review
Second Place
Evan Thompson Blind Student Competes in Cross Country South Whidbey Record
Third Place
Dan Trujillo Dec. 8, 2016, Community of Champions Camas-Washougal Post-Record Roger Harnack Mar. 22, 2017, Field Day Daily Sun News
Groups 3 & 4 First Place
Richard Walker, Sophie Bonomi Jul. 29, 2016, Canoe Journey North Kitsap Herald
Second Place
Adam Rudnick Aug. 4, 2016, Concussions in Youth Sports Shelton-Mason County Journal
Third Place
David Boehmke Mar. 1, 2017, State Champion! The Reflector
Ann McCreary State’s Wildlife Officer of the Year Methow Valley News
Group 3
Jason Cruz The Killing Art: Filipino Martial Arts Northwest Asian Weekly
First Place
Patrick Sullivan Daughter, Dad Work Gridiron Together Port Townsend Leader
Second Place
Third Place
Best Sports Page Design Groups 1 & 2
Rodney Harwood Wade Leslie hopes to Inspire Others Columbia Basin Herald Sophie Bonomi “Northwest Mermaid” Takes the Plunge North Kitsap Herald 2017 WNPA BETTER NEWSPAPER CONTEST 18
News Best Editorial Group 1
Second Place
Assunta Ng Reflections on Election Night Northwest Asian Weekly
First Place
Cali Bagby, Colleen Smith Armstrong Abuse of Power should be Against the Law Islands’ Sounder
Third Place
Chris Thew Point of Thew The Omak-Okanogan County Chronicle
Second Place
Colleen Smith Armstrong Don’t Let Addiction Hide in the Dark Islands’ Sounder
Best Humorous Column or Blog Groups 1 - 4 First Place
Third Place
Dennis Box Phone, Race and Constitution The Courier-Herald
Dave Burgess District Makes a Point with Parents The Quincy Valley Post-Register
Best Topical Columns or Blog Groups 1 & 2
Group 2
First Place
Michelle Nedved It’s Time Pend Oreille County Realized Marijuana is Legal Newport Miner
Second Place
Roger Harnack, John Fannin Time to Stop Free Passes Daily Sun News
Third Place
Justin Burnett Yeah, We’re not Paying South Whidbey Record
Group 3
First Place
Richard Walker A Possible Solution to Homelessness Bremerton Patriot
Second Place
Richard Walker Best Meet Community Needs Bremerton Patriot
Third Place
Steve Powell Hand this to Panhandlers Arlington Times
Group 4
First Place
Richard Walker The Enduring Lessons of WWII Central Kitsap Reporter
Second Place
Bob Smith City Council Drives Home Message Port Orchard Independent
Third Place
Matt Phelps Elected Officials Deserve Respect Kirkland Reporter
First Place
Best Editorial Cartoon Groups 1 - 4 First Place
Brad Skiff Scary Clowns The Omak-Okanogan County Chronicle
Second Place
Brad Skiff Pot Farms The Omak-Okanogan County Chronicle
Third Place
Rob Putim Puppets Shelton-Mason County Journal
Best Editorial Pages Groups 1 & 2 First Place
Staff Editorial Pages Methow Valley News
Second Place
Third Place
Michael Dashiell Editorial Pages Sequim Gazette
First Place
Sebastian Moraga Shine Columns The Quincy Valley Post-Register
Second Place
Mel Damski If I Ran the Zoo La Conner Weekly News
Third Place
Mickey Bambrick Life on the Ridge La Conner Weekly News
Group 2
First Place
Don Nelson No Bad Days Methow Valley News
Second Place
Kellie Trudeau, Brandon Hansen Editorial Pages The Independent
Third Place
Groups 3 & 4 First Place
Richard Walker Editorial Pages Bremerton Patriot
Second Place
Adam Rudnick Editorial Pages Shelton-Mason County Journal
19 2017 WNPA BETTER NEWSPAPER CONTEST
Second Place
Patricia Paul Aqiimuk’s Kitchen La Conner Weekly News
Best General Interest Column or Blog Third Place Al Stover Group 1
Michael Wagar Editorial Pages Nisqually Valley News
Third Place
Don Gronning Rodeo Scene Newport Miner
Sophia Aldous Sophie’s Choice Newport Miner Roger Harnack On the Hot Seat Daily Sun News
Groups 3 & 4 First Place
Elizabeth Widel Exploring the Okanogan The Omak-Okanogan County Chronicle
Crunch Time Cheney Free Press
Groups 3 & 4 First Place
Samantha Pak On the Shelf Northwest Asian Weekly
Second Place
Michael Heinbach Hot Corner Shelton-Mason County Journal
Third Place
Ryan Kuhn Timeout Daily Record
Photography Photographer of the Year Groups 1 - 4 First Place
Brianna Loper Shelton-Mason County Journal
Second Place
Roger Harnack Daily Sun News
Third Place
Brian Myrick Daily Record
B/W Feature, Portrait or Pictorial Photo
Groups 1 - 4 First Place
Philip Watness A Child’s Silhouette Skamania County Pioneer
Second Place
Michael Dashiell One Lump or Two? Sequim Gazette
Third Place
Wayne Diaz Three-day Music Festival Dazzles Audiences The Northern Light
B/W Sports Photo Groups 1 & 2
Brianna Loper of the Shelton-Mason County Journal won First Place for Photographer of the Year with a portfolio that “stood out for the photographer’s ability to find genuine moments of emotion.”
First Place
Roger Harnack Muddy Mess on the Volleyball Court Daily Sun News
Second Place
Brandon Hansen Little League Tournament The Independent
Third Place
Brian Kelly High-powered Twister Bainbridge Island Review
Groups 3 & 4 First Place
Roger Harnack of the Daily Sun News took second in the Photographer of the Year competition.
Michael Dashiell Point Guard, for the Block Sequim Gazette
Second Place
Matthew Nash Grip and Grimace Sequim Gazette
Third Place
Second Place
Third Place
Michael Dashiell Wolves get a Lift Sequim Gazette
B/W Photo Essay Groups 1 - 4 First Place
Brandon Hansen State 1B Basketball Coming to a Close The Independent
20 2017 WNPA BETTER NEWSPAPER CONTEST
Shawna Whelan Alpaca Antics Shelton-Mason County Journal Gordon Weeks Songs of Joy Shelton-Mason County Journal
Breaking News, B/W or Color Groups 1 & 2 First Place
John Fannin Dialing for a Ride near Sunnyside Daily Sun News
Second Place
Gary DeVon Air Lifted Off Mountain Okanogan Valley Gazette-Tribune
Brian Myrick of the Daily Record in Ellensburg placed third in the Photographer of the Year competition. Third Place
Kyle Jensen Firefighters Work to Put Out the Flames South Whidbey Record
Groups 3 & 4 First Place
Shawna Whelan Fire Destroys Home on Boundary Street Shelton-Mason County Journal
Second Place
Ron Newberry A Firefighter Consoles Whidbey News-Times
Third Place
Ray Still Grapple for the Gavel The Courier-Herald
Photography General News, B/W or Color Group 1 First Place
Ashley Hiruko Sen. Doug Ericksen Town Hall Ferndale Record
Second Place
Don Coyote All Lit Up La Conner Weekly News
Third Place
Brandon Hansen National Women’s March The Independent
Group 2
First Place
Michael Wagar Community Comes Together Nisqually Valley News
Second Place
Sophia Aldous Sun Sets on Powwow Newport Miner
Third Place
Don Gronning He Made It! Newport Miner
Group 3
First Place
Nicholas Johnson Remembering Amiyah and Yesterday Mukilteo Beacon
Second Place
Gordon Weeks Trump Supporters Shelton-Mason County Journal
Third Place
Matthew Nash Waving in the Lavender Sequim Gazette
Group 4
First Place
Rachel Ciampi of the Kent Reporter took first place in the color feature photo division in Group 4 for this pumpkin patch photo. Second Place
Mandi Johnson Homecoming 2016 Islands’ Sounder
Third Place
Don Coyote Yum! La Conner Weekly News
Group 2
First Place
Ashley Lodato No shoes, no shirt, Badass Wolverine Run Methow Valley News
Second Place
Briana Alzola Arts Festival hosts 2016 Color Run Anacortes American
Dennis Box In Memory Covington/Maple Valley/Black Diamond Reporter
Third Place
Michelle Beahm P.Ink Helps Women Reclaim their Bodies Central Kitsap Reporter
Group 3
Second Place
Third Place
Leah Abraham Students Protest at City Hall Renton Reporter
Color Feature Photo Group 1 First Place
Colleen Smith Armstrong County Fair: Barn and Raised Islands’ Sounder
Julia Hart “Maybelle” Kicks Off the Fair Daily Sun News
Group 4
First Place
Rachel Ciampi Choosy Kent Reporter
Second Place
Heidi Sanders Hands-on Science Kent Reporter
Third Place
Andy Nystrom Joyous Festival of Color Redmond Reporter
Color Portrait (Human or Animal) Groups 1 & 2 First Place
Brian Kelly Rev. Paul Stumme-Diers Finds his Soft Spot Bainbridge Island Review
Second Place
Roger Harnack Calming Effect Daily Sun News
First Place
Third Place
Second Place
Group 3
Allison Arthur Thor Fights Flu Port Townsend Leader Nicholas Johnson Chloe Rogers Port Townsend Leader
Third Place
Brianna Loper Here, Fishy, Fishy Shelton-Mason County Journal
Natalie St. John Aida Moradi Ahani Chinook Observer
First Place
Brian Myrick Drenched Dachshunds Daily Record
Second Place
Nicholas Johnson Artist Hopkins Calls Mukilteo Home Mukilteo Beacon
2017 WNPA BETTER NEWSPAPER CONTEST 21
Photography Color Portrait (Human or Animal) Group 3 Third Place
Nicholas Johnson Nick Singleton Port Townsend Leader
Group 4
First Place
Rachel Ciampi Low Rider Auburn Reporter
Second Place
Carrie Griffis Wildlife in Pastels Port Orchard Independent
Third Place
Jonathan Haukaas Throwing Corn Cobs The Reflector
Color Pictorial Groups 1 & 2 First Place
Don Coyote Hunting La Conner Weekly News
Second Place
Don Coyote Fall Foraging La Conner Weekly News
Third Place
Marcy Stamper Sea of Tranquility Methow Valley News
Group 3
First Place
Brian Myrick Star Party Daily Record
Second Place
Brian Myrick Bees Gather Pollen from a Sunflower Daily Record
Third Place
Ron Newberry A Fiery Celebration Whidbey News-Times
Group 4
First Place
Andy Nystrom My City Redmond Redmond Reporter
Second Place
Jonathan Haukaas The I-5 Bridge Rises out of the Fog The Reflector
Third Place
Steve Powell Stream to Mountain The Marysville Globe
Allison Arthur of the Port Townsend Leader took first place in the color feature photo category in Group 3 with this photo of Thor who joined other super heros in handing out flu shots to children.
Color Photo Essay Group 1 First Place
Brandon Hansen, Jared Arnold, Other Contributors Chewelah Chataqua 2016 The Independent
Second Place
Philip Watness 2016 Skamania County Fair Skamania County Pioneer
Group 2
First Place
Jim Fossett YEE-HAW! Cle Elum Roundup Billed a Winner Northern Kittitas County Tribune
Second Place
Roger Harnack High on Nitro Daily Sun News
Group 3
First Place
Sophie Bonomi Cyclists Show Grit in Twilight Criterium Races North Kitsap Herald
Second Place
Michael Dashiell, Patricia Morrison Coate, Alana Linderoth Sequim’s Irrigation Festival Fun Sequim Gazette
Third Place
Dee Camp Rainy Lake The Omak-Okanogan County Chronicle
Group 4
First Place
Dennis Box Winner and still Champions Covington/Maple Valley/Black Diamond Reporter
Second Place
Leah Abraham 2016 in Photos Renton Reporter
Third Place
Leah Abraham Multicultural Festival Friday Renton Reporter
Color Sports Photo - Action Group 1 First Place
Sebastian Moraga Axel Medina Scores The Quincy Valley Post-Register
Group 2
First Place
Luciano Marano Big Lead for a Little Racer Bainbridge Island Review
2017 WNPA BETTER NEWSPAPER CONTEST 22
Photography Second Place
Erik Pague Navigating the Big Dirty Run Northern Kittitas County Tribune
Third Place
Dan Trujillo Lofstead Vault Record Camas-Washougal Post-Record
Group 3
First Place
Matthew Nash Rugby Race Sequim Gazette
Second Place
Shawna Whelan Hold it Right There Shelton-Mason County Journal
Third Place
John Fisken Oak Harbor Center Fielder Dylan Whidbey News-Times
Group 4
First Place
Jonathan Haukaas Skaters take Advantage of the Last Few Weeks of Sunshine The Reflector
Second Place
Lee Maples A Tangle under the Basket Port Orchard Independent
Third Place
Dennis Box Kicking into State Gear Covington/Maple Valley/Black Diamond Reporter
Digital
Best Website Groups 1 - 4 First Place
Staff MethowValleyNews.com Methow Valley News
Second Place
Oliver Lazenby, Doug DeVisser, Pat Grubb MountBakerExperience.com The Northern Light
Third Place
Pat Grubb TheNorthernLight.com Website The Northern Light
Michael Wagar of the Nisqually Valley News took first place in the sports color feature photo category in Groups 1 & 2 for this photo of Yelm celebrating a state championship.
Color Sports Photo - Feature Groups 1 & 2 First Place
First Place
Brian Myrick End Zone Consolation Daily Record
Michael Wagar Yelm State Champs Nisqually Valley News
Second Place
Don Gronning Getting Ready to Ride Newport Miner
Third Place
Brian Myrick Homecoming Celebration Daily Record
Second Place
Best Online Ad Groups 1 - 4 First Place
Job Wise Anytime Fitness Daily Sun News
Best Online Photo Essay (no audio or video) Groups 1 & 2
First Place
Darla Hussey, Don Nelson 49ers Days Parade Methow Valley News
Second Place
Groups 3 & 4
Mandi Donohue, Ann McCreary, Don Nelson July 4, 2016 in Twisp Methow Valley News
Brianna Loper Finding Balance Shelton-Mason County Journal
Group 3
First Place
Michael Dashiell Sequim’s Vern Frykholm, Sr. Sequim Gazette
Second Place
Best Video Groups 1 - 4 First Place
Brandan Adam Football Preview The Marysville Globe
Second Place
Michael Dashiell Graduation Walk Sequim Gazette
Matthew Nash Sequim Lavender Weekend Sequim Gazette
Third Place
Group 4
First Place
Briana Alzola Christmas Events 2016 Anacortes American
Steve Powell The Little Schoolhouse in Marysville The Marysville Globe
Second Place
Leah Abraham Return to Renton: Car Show Renton Reporter 2017 WNPA BETTER NEWSPAPER CONTEST 23
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