1. News Contest
2012 Award Winners
Recognizing the best in S.C. newspaper journalism
FIRST PLACE General News Photo: Aaron Morrison, The Lancaster
News, “Lancaster High School Graduation”
FIRST PLACE Spot News Photo: Brad Nettles, The Post and Courier, “Distraught” FIRST PLACE AND BEST OF THE BEST Sports Feature Photo: Sefton
Ipock, Independent Mail, “Slap in the Face”

2. 2 • 2012 SCPA News Contest Winners
Journalist Reid Montgomery
of the FOI AWARD
Year Award
DAILY DIVISION
DAILY DIVISION FIRST PLACE
GLENN SMITH The Index-Journal took on a major statewide problem of police agencies
THE POST AND COURIER withholding dash-cam video tapes and reports pending completion of an
investigation. This paper excelled in highlighting the issues with investigative
Glenn Smith is a veteran crime reporter who joined reporting, backed up with many well-reasoned editorials. They filed suit to
The Post and Courier’s staff in 1999. He is a native make sure the info was made public. The Index-Journal’s victory in the suit sets
of Connecticut and a graduate of UConn (though strong precedent for all S.C. media.
before they were any good in basketball). He has
been a working journalist for more than 20 years
and has won numerous state, regional and national SECOND PLACE
awards, including being named a two-time winner
Smith
of the Taylor-Tomlin Award for Investigative The Post and Courier is always a strong contender for this FOI award. The
Reporting. He writes about crime, mayhem and any number of quirky subjects. newspaper is a second place winner in a field that almost had two first place
He is a music fiend, an avid guitar player and a unrepentant beer snob. He lives in winners. The Post and Courier continues to show a wide-range of efforts in
Charleston with his wife and their daughter. seeking records and developing FOI stories. Outstanding FOI efforts in 2012
Judges’ comments: The Journalist of the Year competition was intense,
included coverage of the abuse at The Citadel and an exposé on insurance rate
with very strong entries from Tim Smith of The Greenville News and Dale
Linder-Altman of The Times and Democrat. Winner Glenn Smith rose
setting.
above the competition for both the breadth and depth of his reporting. His
dogged and aggressive reporting chronicled how The Citadel dealt with WEEKLY DIVISION
a pedophile who molested more than 50 boys and how the school tried
to protect its image instead of facing the issue. He also revealed how the FIRST PLACE
Charleston Fire Department was making many of the same mistakes that led MICHAEL SMITH
to the death of nine firefighters four years ago. Smith also exposed how the
Charleston Police Department purposefully and routinely withheld public Michael Smith of the Carolina Forest Chronicle stayed with an important
information in crime reports, bringing change in department policy. story of the hiring of a new Coastal Carolina football coach for months,
fighting for emails and records regarding the hire. He deserves a lot of
WEEKLY DIVISION credit for his perseverance and using the FOIA law in standing up to a local
COREY HUTCHINS institution. Good job!
FREE TIMES Travis Jenkins of The News & Reporter in Chester also deserves commendation
for his FOI efforts in 2012.
Corey Hutchins is a staff writer for the Columbia
Free Times. Last year he was named the S.C. Press
Association’s 2011 Weekly Journalist of the Year. He
is currently working on the United States Project
for the Columbia Journalism Review, and his work Judson Chapman
Hutchins
has appeared on the cover of The Nation and in
The Texas Observer and The Progressive magazine,
Award for Public Service
among others. In 2012, Hutchins helped cover
the GOP presidential primary for CBS News and worked on the State Integrity
Investigation, a risk analysis for corruption in all 50 state governments published
FIRST PLACE: The Post and Courier, Gene Sapakoff and Glenn
by the Center for Public Integrity, Global Integrity and Public Radio International. Smith, “Rosa says it’s time to be accountable”
His graphic novel about Alvin Greene, The Accidental Candidate, came out in Judges’ Comments: A thorough story on a tough subject.
June. Hutchins earned a journalism degree in 2002 from the State University of
New York at Morrisville and a degree in literature in 2006 from the University of
South Carolina. SECOND PLACE: The Post and Courier, Tony Bartelme, “Winners
Judges’ Comments: Corey Hutchins continued his stellar reporting to win and Losers: Finishing the Mark Clark”
the Journalist of the Year award for the second straight year. Hutchins’
“State of Corruption” article outlined the problems with income disclosure,
party financing and a toothless ethics commission. His story exposed why THIRD PLACE: Charleston City Paper, Paul Bowers, “Unbalanced
new ethics laws are needed and how the current laws are abused. His Diet”
report was widely quoted in editorials across the state. He also covered
the murky underworld of video gambling in “Sweepstakes Cafes.”

3. 2012 SCPA News Contest Winners • 3
Assertive Journalism Award
Presented by SCPA Attorney Jay Bender in memory of AP Reporter Jim Davenport
ALL DAILY DIVISION ALL WEEKLY DIVISION
FIRST PLACE: The Times and Democrat, Dale Linder-Altman, FIRST PLACE: The Travelers Rest Monitor, Roger Jewell, “City
S.C. State Coverage Administration Violates Law”
Judges’ Comments: Amazing ongoing effort to cover complex Judges’ Comments: This small town newspaper brushed aside
financial issues at S.C. State over a long period of time. Linder- pressure from local politicians and took on issues important to
Altman worked hard to hold the school’s feet to the fire on readers. Despite having a small staff and being in a small market
releasing public records. Her work defined assertive journalism where it is often difficult to hold politicians accountable, this little
for the year. newspaper did it. The Monitor was the only media outlet to cover
these key stories.
SECOND PLACE: The Post and Courier, Glenn Smith, Gene
Sapakoff and Diane Knich, “The Citadel” SECOND PLACE: Greenville Journal, Charles Sowell, “County
Disabilities and Special Needs Board”
THIRD PLACE: The Herald, Jamie Self, “Detention Center”
THIRD PLACE: Free Times, Corey Hutchins, “Stacking the Deck”
HONORABLE MENTION: The State, Haley Coverage
Photojournalist of the Year Award
ALL DAILY DIVISION ALL WEEKLY DIVISION
GERRY MELENDEZ MATT MCCOLL
THE STATE THE WEEKLY OBSERVER
Judges’ Comments: Gerry Melendez has a very Judges’ Comments: A winner among several strong
sophisticated way of seeing. Unexpected photos from contenders, this photographer covers this community
events like a funeral or a fair... the things well. His portfolio was diverse in subject and he
photographers have to cover day in and day out but, excelled at getting close to subjects and shooting at
here, they’ve made original images. Complex and busy, different angles. This grouping shows a slice of life and
but also easy to read, which is a very hard thing to leaves you feeling like you know this neighborhood
accomplish. There were lots of really great portfolios in and community. Well done.
Melendez this contest, so the photographer should be proud. McColl

4. 4 • 2012 SCPA News Contest Winners
Open Division INNOVATIVE CONCEPT All Daily
FIRST PLACE: The Post and Courier, Staff,
SERIES OF SPORTS ARTICLES “Advantage Membership” 2012 ELECTION/POLITICAL COVERAGE
FIRST PLACE: The Lancaster News, Gregory Judges’ Comments: The Post and Courier FIRST PLACE: The State
developed its metered pay model for the Web as an Judges’ Comments: The Presidential Primary,
Summers, “Lancaster Speedway” integrated part of a larger strategy of transition – a candidates bounced from ballot, local races,
Judges’ Comments: This is a nice package of stories smart, adaptable approach that should put it on a Richland County voting debacle – The State
presenting a thorough look at a track through path for long-term success. covered it all with insight, analysis and perspective
different perspectives and voices. Along with the
photos, this puts you there.
SECOND PLACE: Fort Mill Times, Michael to win in a most competitive race with great entries
Harrison and Jenny Overman, “Live, online from other papers across the state.
SECOND PLACE: Herald-Journal, Kevin SECOND PLACE: Aiken Standard
candidates debate”
Melton, “Against the odds”
THIRD PLACE: The Island Packet, Angela THIRD PLACE: The Post and Courier
THIRD PLACE: The Post and Courier, Gene HONORABLE MENTION: The Greenville News
Hamilton and Jeff Kidd, “Public safety
Sapakoff, “Mentoring through sports”
website”
EDITORIAL OR COLUMN IN SUPPORT OF
ONLINE COLUMN WRITING FOI/OPEN GOVERNMENT ISSUES
FIRST PLACE: The Moultrie News, Renae AFFILIATED OR NICHE WEBSITE
FIRST PLACE: Independent Mail, Richard FIRST PLACE: The Post and Courier, Elsa
Brabham, “Piddlin in Dixie” McDowell, “Juries”
Judges’ Comments: Great style, captivating voice. Johnson, Brandon Rink, Kerry Capps,
Judges’ Comments: This well-crafted editorial takes
SECOND PLACE: The Sun News, Issac Bailey, Greg Wallace, Mark Crammer, Sefton on an issue that often comes up when attorneys try
“GOP must rid itself of myths” Ipock, Nathan Gray and Ken Ruinard, to close court because of pretrial publicity. Well
THIRD PLACE: The News and Reporter, Travis Orangeandwhite.com reasoned. Points out the issues and raises
Judges’ Comments: Pleasant look and layout. Lots awareness of why the public should be able to
Jenkins, “Something special”
of content without looking too busy. The obtain public information.
journalism/coverage seems professional and SECOND PLACE: The Sun News, Dan Golden,
ILLUSTRATION meticulous.
“Coroner Reports”
FIRST PLACE: Herald-Journal, Gary Kyle, SECOND PLACE: Myrtle Beach Herald, Chris THIRD PLACE: Herald-Journal, Michael Smith,
“Copper Thieves” Mowder, listenupmyrtlebeach.com “Hiding Crime”
Judges’ Comments: This is a great way to add art to THIRD PLACE: The State, Dwayne McLemore,
a story that doesn’t typically have many dynamic
photo opportunities.
gogamecocks.com INVESTIGATIVE REPORTING
SECOND PLACE: The State, Susan Ardis, “What FIRST PLACE: The Post and Courier, Glenn
makes Drake?”
CRITICAL WRITING Smith and Doug Pardue, “Trouble behind
THIRD PLACE: Carolina Forest Chronicle, Chris FIRST PLACE: The Post and Courier, Adam prison walls”
Parker Judges’ Comments: Prison walls keep information
Mowder, “Girl Scouts 100th Anniversary”
Judges’ Comments: Parker is insightful, intuitive from leaking out almost as securely as they hold
and easy to read, covering complex works of art inmates in, but Smith and Pardue manage to tell
INFORMATIONAL GRAPHICS PORTFOLIO and other diverse subjects. His deconstruction of stories from within the state’s maximum security
FIRST PLACE: The Post and Courier, Gill the Batman trilogy myth is pointed, poignant and prison through hard work and perseverance –
Guerry without peer. showing a strained system with almost impossible
Judges’ Comments: The I-526 graphic is not only SECOND PLACE: The Post and Courier, Gene working conditions for corrections officers.
an interesting and well-done graphic, it also tells a Sapakoff SECOND PLACE: The Greenville News, Tim
story in a unique way. Great job! Guerry’s graphics THIRD PLACE: The Post and Courier, Bo Smith, David Dykes, Eric Connor and Ron
are easy to understand with great detail. Barnett, “Hackers steal residents’ data”
Petersen
SECOND PLACE: The Post and Courier, Chad THIRD PLACE: Herald-Journal, Lynne
Dunbar
ONLINE NEWS PROJECT Shackleford, “E. coli outbreak reported”
THIRD PLACE: The State, Meredith Sheffer FIRST PLACE: The Post and Courier, Gill
Guerry, “Storm of Money” CARTOON
SINGLE ONLINE PHOTO Judges’ Comments: The interactive graphics with FIRST PLACE: Herald-Journal, Robert Ariail
FIRST PLACE: The Island Packet, Delayna this package were very informative and helped the Judges’ Comments: Ariail’s cartoon of Assad
Earley, “Pledge of Allegiance” reader understand the information. The map with has visceral punch; his pen draws irony out of
Judges’ Comments: Good moment and good the historical storm tracks and information was an unemployment in South Carolina; and making
framing. added bonus, too. sport of tourists is always a favorite among
SECOND PLACE: The Times and Democrat, SECOND PLACE: Morning News, Rebecca J. irreverent “locals.”
Emery Glover, “Watching the blaze” Ducker, Lou Bezjak, John D. Russell, Matt SECOND PLACE: The Times and Democrat,
THIRD PLACE: The Island Packet, Sarah McColl and Andrew Golden, “Prep Talk” Walt Inabinet
Welliver, “Class 3-A state football THIRD PLACE: Fort Mill Times, Michael THIRD PLACE: The Greenville News, Roger
championship” Harrison and Jenny Overman, “Online Harvell
candidate forum”

5. 2012 SCPA News Contest Winners • 5
MIXED MEDIA ILLUSTRATION
FIRST PLACE: The State, Meredith Sheffer,
“The Masters”
Judges’ Comments: Clever! Multiple graphic
elements come together to make a clean, well-
designed illustration. Love the concept!
SECOND PLACE: Aiken Standard, Brandon
Lockett, “Building for a Better Education”
THIRD PLACE: The Times and Democrat,
Kristin Coker, “Gamecocks Capital One Bowl
Poster”
SPORTS SPECIALTY PUBLICATION OR
SPORTS MAGAZINE
FIRST PLACE: The State, “Go Gamecocks: The
Head Ball Coach Issue”
Judges’ Comments: Very complete career
retrospective of a fascinating coach.
SECOND PLACE: The State, “Go Gamecocks:
College Football Preview”
THIRD PLACE: The Post and Courier, “Tideline” FIRST PLACE Single Online Photo: Delayna Earley, The Island Packet, “Pledge of Allegiance”
FEATURE SPECIALTY PUBLICATION OR GOVERNMENT REPORTING SPORTS BEAT REPORTING
MAGAZINE FIRST PLACE: The State, Gina Smith FIRST PLACE: The Post and Courier, Darryl
FIRST PLACE: The Post and Courier, “My Judges’ Comments: Ms. Smith’s coverage of the debate Slater, “South Carolina Gamecocks”
Charleston” over Gov. Haley’s ethical practices was clear and Judges’ Comments: This impressive, detail-laden
Judges’ Comments: The art is very engaging. The engaging. The ensuing stories on the limitations of writing and reporting left the reader feeling as
layout is clean and pleasing to the eye. It is easy to S.C. ethics law showed deep understanding and a though he was present at whatever event or
read and follow. Content was useful and extremely focus on public service writing. scenario that Slater was chronicling. The samplers
informative. Wonderful job by staff. SECOND PLACE: The State, Adam Beam were all truly inside glimpses into the subject
SECOND PLACE: The Item, “Lakeside” THIRD PLACE: The Post and Courier, Stephen matter.
THIRD PLACE: The Sun News, “843 Life. Style. Dine.” Largen SECOND PLACE: The State, Neil White, “USC
Baseball”
NEWS SPECIAL EDITION OR SECTION HEALTH REPORTING THIRD PLACE: The Post and Courier, Travis
FIRST PLACE: The Greenville News, Staff, FIRST PLACE: The Greenville News, Liv Osby Sawchik, “Clemson Tigers”
“Destination Greenville” Judges’ Comments: The writer describes compelling
Judges’ Comments: Very informative for a person human dramas in ways that are both interesting and FEATURE HEADLINE WRITING
moving into the community. Good mix of stories informative. The reporting is strong and the writing is FIRST PLACE: The Post and Courier, Beth
and quick facts for the reader that provide descriptive and engaging.
Harrison
important details. A person gets this and they now SECOND PLACE: The Herald, Don Worthington Judges’ Comments: “Set in Stone” to describe
know who to call and where to go. THIRD PLACE: The Greenville News, Mike Foley history displayed in grave markers is a dignified
SECOND PLACE: Herald-Journal, Staff, “Salute and evocative bit of wordplay. Using the stock
to Veterans” EDUCATION REPORTING phrase “get out and stay out” for an article about a
THIRD PLACE: The State, Staff, “Will S.C. go FIRST PLACE: The Herald, Shawn Cetrone school that gets students out of the classroom is
rogue?” Judges’ Comments: Cetrone keeps a close eye on playful and clever.
public education and looks beyond the surface to SECOND PLACE: Independent Mail, Kylie Yerka
SPORTS SPECIAL EDITION OR SECTION expose problems and solutions. THIRD PLACE: Herald-Journal, Todd Money
FIRST PLACE: Herald-Journal, Staff, “Meet the SECOND PLACE: The Post and Courier, Diette
Candidates” Courrégé Casey SPORTS HEADLINE WRITING
Judges Comments: Great concept, carried out THIRD PLACE: The State, Andrew Shain FIRST PLACE: Herald-Journal, Mark Egan
through the entire section very well. Thorough Judges’ Comments: The Super Bowl headline on the
stories and information.
FAITH REPORTING Giants’ victory takes advantage of the score and the
SECOND PLACE: The State, Staff, “10 Wins” FIRST PLACE: Herald-Journal, Dustin Wyatt
photo – a highly effective integration of headline and
THIRD PLACE: The Island Packet, Staff, “RBC Judges’ Comments: Beautifully written.
design. “Dancing through the hoops,” initially
puzzling, is explained by the deck.
Heritage” SECOND PLACE: The Post and Courier, Adam SECOND PLACE: Independent Mail, Rusty Boggs
Parker THIRD PLACE: The Herald, Ellyn Ritterskamp
THIRD PLACE: Independent Mail, Charmaine
Smith-Miles

6. 6 • 2012 SCPA News Contest Winners
ENTERTAINMENT SECTION
FIRST PLACE: The Island Packet, Liz Farrell,
“Lowcountry Current”
Judges’ Comments: I’m not certain where the
Lowcountry is, but this section makes me wish I
lived there. Cool, fresh and I love the writers’
voices. Columnists like Patrick Donahue and Ellis
Harman were two I’d love to follow on a regular
basis.
SECOND PLACE: Independent Mail, Jake Grove
and Kylie Yerka, “Upstate Be”
THIRD PLACE: Herald-Journal, Jose Franco,
“Escape”
LIFESTYLE/FEATURE SPECIAL EDITION OR
SECTION
FIRST PLACE: Herald-Journal, “The Sky’s the
Limit”
Judges’ Comments: Very well thought-out section.
Lots of nice local photos and stories for each area
high school band. Beautiful design. A pleasure to
read.
SECOND PLACE: The Island Packet, “Back to
School”
THIRD PLACE: Independent Mail, Willie Mae
Mattress and Melissa Lewis, “Hometowner”
E.A. RAMSAUR AWARD FOR EDITORIAL
WRITING
FIRST PLACE Spot News Photo: Anna Brown, Union County News, “House Fire” FIRST PLACE: The State, Cindi Ross Scoppe
Judges’ Comments: In a very close contest among
the top entrants, Ms. Scoppe’s work stood out for its
depth and clarity. She took strong positions on
PHOTO PAGE DESIGN USE OF TWITTER complicated issues and explained them in a way
FIRST PLACE: The State, Tracy Burlison, FIRST PLACE: The Post and Courier, Andy Paras someone who is not familiar with the details and
“Super Saturday” Judges’ Comments: Talk about reader engagement! background can easily understand.
Judges’ Comments: Great photos paired with a Paras interacts with his readers in a personable, SECOND PLACE: The Post and Courier, Elsa
great layout make this a winner! Good job at yet authoritative manner 24/7. From traffic and
McDowell
sports scores to humorous tidbits, he is the real-
telling the story. Nicely done... felt like I was there,
time go-to guy for Charleston news. THIRD PLACE: The Greenville News, Beth
but glad I wasn’t.
SECOND PLACE: The Post and Courier, Staff Padgett
SECOND PLACE: The State, Susan Ardis,
“Animal Attraction” THIRD PLACE: The Post and Courier, Gene
THIRD PLACE: Herald-Journal, Todd Money, Sapakoff
All Weekly
“Special Times”
FACEBOOK PAGE
FIRST PLACE: The State, Dwayne McLemore 2012 ELECTION/POLITICAL COVERAGE
UNPUBLISHED PHOTO FIRST PLACE: Free Times, Staff
FIRST PLACE: The Times and Democrat, and Gary Ward
Judges’ Comments: Engaging, comprehensive
Christopher Huff, “No confirmation amid Judges’ Comments: If the idea of a Facebook page is
coverage and incisive commentary that clearly
to build a community, Go Gamecocks is
chaos” defined and explained the issues and personalities
succeeding. It would be easy to simply post scores
Judges’ Comments: Dramatic wreck scene captures involved in some of the biggest stories of the year.
and let the Gamecocks/rabid fans take over, but
action and emotion. Goes beyond the norm. there are recruiting updates, photos and updates SECOND PLACE: The Summerville Journal
SECOND PLACE: Herald-Journal, Tim Kimzey, about sports not in season. Add in a little bit of Scene, Leslie Cantu and Staff
“Drowning” personality to the posts, and the page becomes a THIRD PLACE: The Lancaster News, Staff
THIRD PLACE: Morning News, Gavin Jackson, destination for true fans.
“Crosswalk” SECOND PLACE: The Post and Courier
THIRD PLACE: The Greenville News, Melissa Hall

7. 2012 SCPA News Contest Winners • 7
EDITORIAL OR COLUMN IN SUPPORT OF SPORTS SPECIALTY PUBLICATION OR GOVERNMENT REPORTING
FOI/OPEN GOVERNMENT ISSUES SPORTS MAGAZINE FIRST PLACE AND BEST OF THE BEST:
FIRST PLACE: The Independent Voice of FIRST PLACE: Chronicle-Independent, “The Free Times, Corey Hutchins
Fairfield County, James Denton, “Fish or Cut Camden Horse” Judges’ Comments: Great writing and research
Bait, School Board of Untrustees” Judges’ Comments: Beautiful magazine – great combine to make a clear winner in this contest.
Judges’ Comments: Writer shows tenacity through headlines and photos. Tons of well written local Stories go beyond basic reporting and tell
his strong reporting skills. Strength in urging use of content. Well-designed. A wonderful read. interesting stories.
FOI prosecution for violations. SECOND PLACE: The Summerville Journal SECOND PLACE: The Lancaster News, Jesef
SECOND PLACE: The News and Reporter, Travis Scene, “Football 2012” Williams
Jenkins, “The Law” THIRD PLACE: Free Times, “Sideline” THIRD PLACE: Myrtle Beach Herald, Charles
THIRD PLACE: Chronicle-Independent, Martin D. Perry
L. Cahn, “Heading for Sunshine at the Beach” FEATURE SPECIALTY PUBLICATION OR
MAGAZINE HEALTH REPORTING
INVESTIGATIVE REPORTING FIRST PLACE: Fort Mill Times, Staff, “Focus on FIRST PLACE: Daniel Island News, Jennifer
FIRST PLACE: Greenville Journal, Charles Fort Mill Township” Johnston
Sowell, “County Disabilities and Special Judges’ Comments: Attractive, informative and Judges’ Comments: The writer engages the reader
well-designed. Facts and figures in demographics by using interesting, relevant facts and meaningful
Needs Board” and schools added substance. I especially enjoyed quotes. Articles are informative and effective in
Judges’ Comments: A great example of using the specific people in photos and stories. explaining health matters. Writing is clear and
multiple sources and records to paint a picture of
arrogance and mismanagement of a county SECOND PLACE: Charleston City Paper, Staff, well-organized.
agency. The depth and breadth of research and “Sun Surf Sand Beach Guide” SECOND PLACE: The Star, Phyllis Britt
reporting makes this the clear winner. Reporting THIRD PLACE: Lake Wylie Pilot, Staff, THIRD PLACE: The Clinton Chronicle, Larry
paved way for change. “Gateway to the Carolinas” Franklin
SECOND PLACE: Myrtle Beach Herald, Charles
D. Perry, Michael Smith and Tom O’Dare, NEWS SPECIAL EDITION OR SECTION EDUCATION REPORTING
“Project Blue” FIRST PLACE: The Press & Standard, Staff, FIRST PLACE: Myrtle Beach Herald, Tina
THIRD PLACE: Lexington County Chronicle “Colleton” Graham Anderson
& The Dispatch News, Jerry Bellune, “River Judges’ Comments: Writing quality far exceeds Judges’ Comments: Anderson takes a wide range of
Bluff High School” competing entries. Quality design and printing education topics and offers in-depth analysis.
enhances all aspects of this magazine, particularly SECOND PLACE: Charleston City Paper, Paul
CARTOON very strong photographic images throughout. Good Bowers
FIRST PLACE: Charleston City Paper, Steve
balance of feature stories and informative listings. THIRD PLACE: The Lancaster News, Reece
SECOND PLACE: The Clinton Chronicle, Staff, Murphy
Stegelin “Veterans Salute 2012”
Judges’ Comments: Stegelin’s take on Nikki Haley is
laugh-out-loud funny. Uncle Scrooge Mitt Duck THIRD PLACE: The Lancaster News, Staff, FAITH REPORTING
covers a lot and hits all targets. His cartoons must “Discover Lancaster County” FIRST PLACE: Myrtle Beach Herald, Tina
narrowly avoid censor. Graham Anderson
SECOND PLACE: News-Chronicle, Mike Beckom SPORTS SPECIAL EDITION OR SECTION Judges’ Comments: Extremely well written,
THIRD PLACE: Free Times, Carlos Montage FIRST PLACE: Myrtle Beach Herald, “High interesting and impactful. Enjoyed reading!
School Football Preview: The New Dream Team” SECOND PLACE: Enquirer-Herald, Jennifer
MIXED MEDIA ILLUSTRATION Judges’ Comments: Very professional design. Becknell
FIRST PLACE: Free Times, Joey Ayer, “Pitfall!” Interesting concept. Varied formats keep the eye THIRD PLACE: Pickens County Courier, Nicole
Judges’ Comments: What a clever way to illustrate moving forward. You covered all bases, from team
previews to player interviews.
Daughhetee
the potential problems with a new voter ID law. I
SECOND PLACE: The Summerville Journal
love the pitfall reference!
SPORTS BEAT REPORTING
SECOND PLACE: Charleston City Paper, Scott Scene, “McKissick”
FIRST PLACE: The News and Reporter, Travis
Suchy, “The Citadel’s shame” THIRD PLACE - TIE: The Lancaster News,
Jenkins, “Chester County Sports”
THIRD PLACE: Myrtle Beach Herald, Chris “Football 2012”
Judges’ Comments: Excellent diversity of topics,
Mowder, “New school takes flight” THIRD PLACE - TIE: The Greer Citizen, from legislative to history and traditional game
“Blueprint for Success” coverage. Writer did his homework, citing multiple
sources per story and presumably digging into the
archives to unearth a “Founding Father” football
Special Thanks embers
legend.
from SC PA and i ts m SECOND PLACE: The Gazette, Rob Gantt,
“High School Sports”
THIRD PLACE: The Summerville Journal Scene,
to The Island Packet in Hilton Head Island for printing this Roger Lee, “Community Sports”
special publication.

8. 8 • 2012 SCPA News Contest Winners
UNPUBLISHED PHOTO SPORTS ENTERPRISE REPORTING NEWS HEADLINE WRITING
FIRST PLACE: The Fort Jackson Leader, FIRST PLACE: Coastal Observer, Roger Greene, FIRST PLACE: The Berkeley Independent, Frank
Andrew McIntyre, “Top Cop Compeitition” “Troubled fund manager makes a new start Johnson
Judges’ Comments: Photo captures a dramatic on the cover” Judges’ Comments: Apt, accurate and understated:
moment. Good use of shallow depth of field to Judges’ Comments: Great enterprise reporting: Just what headlines should be.
emphasize policeman and gun. investigative, balanced and fair. This story is a SECOND PLACE: Myrtle Beach Herald, Charles
SECOND PLACE: The Weekly Observer, Matt textbook case of how to dig up, report and write a D. Perry
McColl, “Corey Bethea” story without sacrificing the human element. THIRD PLACE: The News and Reporter, Travis
THIRD PLACE: Fort Mill Times, John Marks, SECOND PLACE: Myrtle Beach Herald, Charles Jenkins
“Bottoms up” D. Perry, “Power to the Pedal”
THIRD PLACE: Free Times, Eva Moore and
USE OF TWITTER Patrick Wall, “Bases Empty”
Daily Over 50,000
FIRST PLACE: Free Times, Corey Hutchins
Judges’ Comments: Engaging, meaningful content. BUSINESS REPORTING PICTORIAL
Readers obviously enjoy interacting with Hutchins. FIRST PLACE: The Moultrie News, Sully Witte FIRST PLACE: The State, C. Aluka Berry,
Nice mix of informative and edgy, but never Judges’ Comments: Excellent background and “Dancing”
boring. Great work! narrative. Did a terrific job explaining the subject Judges’ Comments: Striking image with dramatic
SECOND PLACE: Free Times, Eva Moore matter. lighting.
THIRD PLACE: Fort Mill Times, Michael SECOND PLACE: Tribune-Times, Nathaniel Cary SECOND PLACE: The State, Gerry Melendez,
Harrison and Jenny Overman THIRD PLACE: Lexington County Chronicle & “State Fair”
The Dispatch News, Jerry Bellune THIRD PLACE: The Greenville News, Ken
FACEBOOK PAGE Osburn, “Mini Storage”
FIRST PLACE: Fort Mill Times, Michael PHOTO ILLUSTRATION HONORABLE MENTION: The Post and Courier,
Harrison and Jenny Overman FIRST PLACE: Carolina Forest Chronicle, Grace Beahm, “Watching the Game”
Judges’ Comments: Nice variety of content, good Michael Smith, “Football puzzle”
companion to newspaper/full site. Judges’ Comments: Very creative concept. Cropped
SECOND PLACE: The Cherokee Chronicle, well, not to destroy action of picture. HUMOROUS PHOTO
Tommy Martin, Jon Martin and Charles Wyatt SECOND PLACE: Coastal Observer, Tanya FIRST PLACE: The Post and Courier, Leroy
Burnell, “Protesters Ringling Bros. and
THIRD PLACE: The Weekly Observer, Matt McColl Ackerman, “Burning of the socks”
THIRD PLACE: Coastal Observer, Charles Barnum & Bailey Circus’”
Judges’ Comments: Good timing. Interesting
HARRIS AWARD FOR EDITORIAL WRITING Swenson, “Images drift down river”
subject matter. This photo makes you smile.
FIRST PLACE: Coastal Observer, Charles Swenson SECOND PLACE: The Greenville News, Mykal
Judges’ Comments: These editorials stand out for WEEKLY NEWSPAPER WEBSITE McEldowney, “Shoe”
their strong community focus and clear point of FIRST PLACE: Fort Mill Times, Michael THIRD PLACE: The Post and Courier, Grace
view. To read them is to get a strong sense of the Harrison
attitudes, culture and values of Pawleys Island. Beahm, “Zipper the Squirrel”
Judges’ Comments: The entry says the goal of the
SECOND PLACE: The Clinton Chronicle, Larry site is to be “a daily newspaper with a weekly print
Franklin product” and it succeeds. Very inviting look with NEWS HEADLINE WRITING
THIRD PLACE: Greenville Journal, Susan Clary lots of information that is well organized, FIRST PLACE: The Post and Courier, Beth
Simmons particularly with the tabs at the top. I look forward Harrison
to seeing where the site is a year from now. Judges’ Comments: The election headline deftly
PUBLIC SERVICE FOR WEEKLY SECOND PLACE: The Press & Standard combines Obama’s victory in the general election
NEWSPAPERS THIRD PLACE: The Dillon Herald with the element of the second term. Economical
and clear. The headline on the Obama-Christie
FIRST PLACE: Myrtle Beach Herald, Charles D.
Perry, Michael Smith, Tom O’Dare and Steve
LIFESTYLE/FEATURE SPECIAL EDITION OR post-Sandy tour gets in both the political and
Robertson, “Executive’s past raises questions”
SECTION disaster elements with the “stormy weather”
allusion, without hitting the reader over the head
Judges’ Comments: Excellent enterprise, FIRST PLACE: Charleston City Paper, “The with wordplay.
investigative reporting of a key player involved in a Pride Issue” SECOND PLACE: The Post and Courier, Bob
local economic development issue. The light of Judges’ Comments: Clean, symmetrical layout with
Kinney
truth was shed on Dave Rocker’s checkered past eye-catching graphics and well-composed photos.
thanks to this enterprising journalism. SECOND PLACE: Coastal Observer, “Beaches” THIRD PLACE: The State, Bobby Bryant
SECOND PLACE: Coastal Observer, Charles THIRD PLACE: The Moultrie News,
Swenson and Jason Lesley, “Walmart plans “Lowcountry Life”
Pawley’s Island store”
THIRD PLACE: Lake Wylie Pilot, John Marks,
“Former benefit families still fighting”

9. 2012 SCPA News Contest Winners • 9
SPOT NEWS REPORTING
FIRST PLACE AND BEST OF THE BEST: The Post
and Courier, Gene Sapakoff, Glenn Smith,
Edward Fennell and Jeff Hartsell, “Citadel’s
Rosa: We are sorry”
Judges’ Comments: Excellent work. Clearly lays out
accounts by key players in a complex series of
events, but – more importantly – adds
documentary evidence and analysis.
SECOND PLACE: The Greenville News, Eric
Connor, “Plea deal frees death row inmate”
THIRD PLACE: The State, Carolyn Click and
Noelle Phillips, “‘Monster’ charged with
kidnapping missing girl”
ENTERPRISE REPORTING
FIRST PLACE: The Post and Courier, Andrew
Knapp and Robert Behre, “Up in Arms”
Judges’ Comments: Great use of on-the-record
comments and the human element elevate this
submission. “The line on fines” section was
particularly well-woven and enlightening. Great
use of breakouts and graphics for data.
SECOND PLACE: The Post and Courier,
Glenn Smith and Andrew Knapp, “Like a SECOND PLACE Sports Feature Photo: Gerry Melendez, The State, “Gatorade Bath”
nightmare”
THIRD PLACE: The Post and Courier, Tony NEWS FEATURE WRITING SHORT STORY
Bartelme, “Arson records thin, full of holes” FIRST PLACE AND BEST OF THE BEST: The Post FIRST PLACE: The State, Dawn Hinshaw, “A
HONORABLE MENTION: The Post and Courier, and Courier, Andrew Knapp, “Murder in the season for early bloomers”
Stephen Largen, “Taxes paid for luxury hotel” forest” Judges’ Comments: So evocative of the hope of early
Judges’ Comments: Rich in detail, solid reporting spring, from the tomato and mayonnaise
BUSINESS REPORTING and strong writing. A great tale and a great sandwiches to the ending’s little girl want to come
FIRST PLACE: The Post and Courier, Brendan example of news feature writing. out with granddad in the garden. A nice vignette.
Kearney SECOND PLACE: The Greenville News, Lyn SECOND PLACE: The Post and Courier, Bo
Judges’ Comments: Kearney provided readers with Riddle, “Freeing the falls” Petersen, “Simple Blessings”
a multidimensional view of the Boeing Dreamliner THIRD PLACE: The State, Dawn Hinshaw, “An THIRD PLACE: The State, Dawn Hinshaw,
and its impact on Charleston. His reporting on a important little spot” “Last week of school”
renewed unionization drive showed enterprise; an
article about a jet delivery to Air India argued how
Boeing might become one of the area’s most PROFILE FEATURE WRITING OR STORY COLUMN WRITING
important economic forces since the Civil War. FIRST PLACE: The State, Carolyn Click, FIRST PLACE: The Post and Courier, Brian Hicks
SECOND PLACE: The Post and Courier, David Slade “Whitson wants to lift women of the world” Judges’ Comments: Brian Hick’s columns are
powerfully written and illuminate important local
THIRD PLACE: The Post and Courier, Warren Wise Judges’ Comments: Carolyn Click delivers a rich
issues such as educational governance, law and
and honest profile of retiring college president
Caroline Whitson. Though Whitson has enjoyed justice and quality of life. He brings a full throated
LIFEESTYLE FEATURE WRITING many successes, Click doesn’t paper over her point of view.
FIRST PLACE: The State, Otis R. Taylor Jr., disappointments. She presents Whitson in full, SECOND PLACE: The Post and Courier, John
“Something you have to work at every single day” from her considerable drive and intellect all the McDermott
Judges’ Comments: Mr. Taylor admittedly had a way down to her very fashionable shoes. THIRD PLACE: The State, Cindi Ross Scoppe
good subject to work with in Bree Boyce. He did a SECOND PLACE: The Greenville News, Amy
thorough job of storytelling that shed lights on the Clarke Burns, “Happy Ending”
person and the people who have helped her on her
journey.
THIRD PLACE: The Post and Courier, Glenn
SECOND PLACE: The Greenville News, Anna Smith, “Cannon under fire”
Lee, “Beyond Books”
THIRD PLACE: The Greenville News, Donna
Isbell Walker, “When Rock Was Young”

10. 10 • 2012 SCPA News Contest Winners
SPORTS ENTERPRISE REPORTING
FIRST PLACE: The Greenville News, Michael
Burns, “The trouble with tweeting”
Judges’ Comments: I like how the author took
something as popular and prevalent as Twitter and
turned a critical eye toward it. The story lays out
the pratfalls and benefits very well.
SECOND PLACE: The Greenville News, Bob
Castello, “A perilous path”
THIRD PLACE: The Greenville News, Rudy
Jones, “Remember the Alamo”’
SPORTS FEATURE STORY
FIRST PLACE: The State, Ron Morris, “A coach
for life”
Judges’ Comments: By reading this, I felt like I
knew someone worth knowing. Detailed
descriptions and insightful anecdotes helped paint
a vivid picture of this coach and his impact on his
community.
SECOND PLACE: The Post and Courier, Darryl
Slater, “Coastal’s CEO Coach”
THIRD PLACE: The Greenville News, Scott
Keepfer, “The home run that never was”
FIRST PLACE AND BEST OF THE BEST Spot News Photo: Matt Walsh, Index-Journal, “Sycamore Drive Fire” SINGLE PAGE ONE DESIGN
FIRST PLACE: The State, Kelly Cobb
Judges’ Comments: The vote percentages at the top
SERIES OF ARTICLES BEAT REPORTING of the page sets this apart from other designs.
FIRST PLACE AND BEST OF THE BEST: The FIRST PLACE: The Post and Courier, Glenn Informative and visually appealing approach.
Post and Courier, Tony Bartelme, “Storm of Smith, “Public safety and Courts” Grabs the eye.
Money” Judges’ Comments: Mr. Smith’s submissions show a SECOND PLACE: The Post and Courier,
Judges’ Comments: With several excellent series, good range of spot news and enterprise writing. He Maureen Hartshorn
this one stood out for its thoroughness, clear clearly demonstrates a gift for getting people to THIRD PLACE: The State, Meredith Sheffer
writing, personalization of complex issues, good talk, collecting sharp detail and relaying it with
well-constructed prose.
collection and analyses of facts and laws, and
timeliness in bringing important information to SECOND PLACE: The State, Jeff Wilkinson, INSIDE PAGE DESIGN
readers. “Military Affairs”
FIRST PLACE: The State, Tracy Burlison
Judges’ Comments: Great use of a great photo.
SECOND PLACE: The State, Sammy Fretwell, THIRD PLACE: The State, Sammy Fretwell, Clean design and powerful use of white space. Well
“Solar Energy” “Environment” done, complete-looking page.
THIRD PLACE: The State, Jeff Wilkinson, SECOND PLACE: The State, Kelly Cobb
“PTSD” SPOT SPORTS STORY THIRD PLACE: The State, Tracy Burlison
FIRST PLACE: The Greenville News, Scott
REPORTING IN DEPTH Keepfer, “Draft continues to fight” SINGLE FEATURE PAGE DESIGN
FIRST PLACE: The Post and Courier, Glenn Judges’ Comments: Took a spot news event, FIRST PLACE: The State, Elizabeth M. Smith
Smith, Gene Sapakoff and Diane Knich, announcing establishment of a memorial Judges’ Comments: Informative layout and a
“Skip Reville coverage” scholarship, and turned it into a beautiful piece, a concise design accentuating the value of the piece.
Judges’ Comments: The clear winner in this “memorial” of sorts, to the athlete’s late wife. A lot Catches the eye with its simplicity.
of heart in this story.
category. Terrific use of shoe-leather reporting and SECOND PLACE: The State, Susan Ardis
the FOIA to get to the bottom and expose the SECOND PLACE: The Greenville News, Bob THIRD PLACE: The Post and Courier, Chad
horrific molestation case at The Citadel. Special Castello, “Signature presence joins son” Dunbar
recognition to Glenn Smith for leading the charge! THIRD PLACE: The Post and Courier, Tommy
Well done!
SECOND PLACE: The State, Noelle Phillips,
Braswell, “One leaf costs Pettersson” SINGLE SPORTS PAGE DESIGN
John Monk and Mindy Lucas, “Tom FIRST PLACE: The State, Meredith Sheffer
Judges’ Comments: Creative, painstakingly detailed
Sponseller-Rachel Dunn” and eye-catching.
THIRD PLACE: The State, Sammy Fretwell, SECOND PLACE: The State, Kevin McLendon
“Industrial toxins in neighborhood” THIRD PLACE: The State, Meredith Sheffer

11. 2012 SCPA News Contest Winners • 11
SPOT NEWS PHOTO
FIRST PLACE: The Post and Courier, Brad
Nettles, “Distraught”
Judges’ Comments: The emotion of this picture is
very strong. Also captures scene with firefighters in
background. (See cover for photo.)
SECOND PLACE: The Post and Courier, Grace
Beahm, “School Pick Up”
THIRD PLACE: The Greenville News, Heidi
Heilbrunn, “Construction Accident”
HONORABLE MENTION: The Post and Courier,
Grace Beahm, “SWAT Standoff ”
GENERAL NEWS PHOTO
FIRST PLACE: The Post and Courier, Grace
Beahm, “Last Day with Veronica”
Judges’ Comments: Photo captures emotion of a
very sad case. Tight composition and good use of
depth of field.
SECOND PLACE: The State, Gerry Melendez,
“Ronald Rouse”
THIRD PLACE: The State, Kim Kim Foster-
Tobin, “Step-up Campaign” THIRD PLACE Feature Photo: Tanya Ackerman, Coastal Observer, “Green Fashion Show”
FEATURE PHOTO SPORTS FEATURE PHOTO PHOTO ILLUSTRATION
FIRST PLACE: The Post and Courier, Tyrone FIRST PLACE: The State, Gerry Melendez, FIRST PLACE: The State, Kim Kim Foster-
Walker, “Spelling Bee” “Backflip” Tobin, “Brooklyn Mack”
Judges’ Comments: Great timing, clean Judges’ Comments: Low angle and wide lens make Judges’ Comments: Stark lighting and multiple
composition. this photo a stopper. exposures make this picture stand out.
SECOND PLACE: The Greenville News, Heidi SECOND PLACE: The State, Gerry Melendez, SECOND PLACE: The State, Kim Kim Foster-
Heilbrunn, “Peter Rosset” “Gatorade Bath” Tobin, “Spa”
THIRD PLACE: The Post and Courier, Tyrone THIRD PLACE: The State, Gerry Melendez, THIRD PLACE: The Post and Courier, Grace
Walker, “Shrimp Casting” “South Carolina players celebrate their 5-1 Beahm, “Bourbon”
HONORABLE MENTION: The Post and Courier, win over Oklahoma”
Tyrone Walker, “DanceFX” DAILY NEWSPAPER WEBSITE
PERSONALITY PHOTOGRAPH OR PORTRAIT FIRST PLACE AND BEST OF THE BEST: The Post
SPORTS ACTION PHOTO FIRST PLACE: The Post and Courier, Grace and Courier
FIRST PLACE: The Greenville News, Bart Beahm, “Long Time Waiting” Judges’ Comments: The overall look of the site was
Boatwright, “Richie Shaffer (8) knocks a Judges’ Comments: Capture of reflection, tight good. The layout was good and the navigation
ground ball down” crop, and shallow depth of field make this photo options were easy to read and use. There were lots
Judges’ Comments: Amazing timing, tight crop, a stand out. of headlines on the home page.
tough shot to get but the photographer nailed it. SECOND PLACE: The Greenville News, Mykal SECOND PLACE: The State, Gary Ward, Kelly
SECOND PLACE: The Greenville News, Bart McEldowney, “Courtney Roberts” Davis, Darren Price, Rachael Lowe, Dwayne
Boatwright, “Joey Pankake (9) slides safely THIRD PLACE: The State, C. Aluka Berry, McLemore and Aubrey Jenkins
into 2nd” “Carrie LeNoir” THIRD PLACE: The Greenville News, Bill Fox
THIRD PLACE: The State, Gerry Melendez,
“Chase Vergason dives to score the PHOTO SERIES OR PHOTO STORY PHOTO GALLERY ON A NEWSPAPER
Gamecocks first run” FIRST PLACE: The State, Gerry Melendez, WEBSITE
HONORABLE MENTION: The Greenville News, “Coming Home” FIRST PLACE: The Post and Courier, Grace
Bart Boatwright, “Tanner Smith (5) tries to Judges’ Comments: Captures emotion without Beahm, “Bulls Island Winter Bow Hunt”
being invasive. Judges’ Comments: Dynamic photos that are well-
drive past Maryland guards”
SECOND PLACE: The State, Gerry Melendez, organized to tell a great story to readers.
“Unclaimed Dead Buried” SECOND PLACE: The Post and Courier, Wade
THIRD PLACE: The State, Gerry Melendez, Spees, “Jack’s Jazz Procession”
“College World Series” THIRD PLACE: The Post and Courier, Grace
HONORABLE MENTION: The State, C. Aluka Beahm, “Lowcountry Flooding”
Berry, “Carrie LeNoir”

12. 12 • 2012 SCPA News Contest Winners
ONLINE SPORTS VIDEO ENTERPRISE REPORTING PROFILE FEATURE WRITING OR STORY
FIRST PLACE: The State, Tracy Glantz, “Strong FIRST PLACE: Independent Mail, Jennifer FIRST PLACE: Herald-Journal, Jenny Arnold,
Hands” Crossley Howard, “Shuttered mills hold “Pat’s Road to Hope”
Judges’ Comments: Good story and interesting years of history” Judges’ Comments: This was a great example of
camera shots. Judges’ Comments: Very thorough, showing how following up a news story to get the real story, the
SECOND PLACE: The Greenville News, Mykal much time and research went into this piece, but real life side that goes beyond the initial facts.
McEldowney, “Trevor Smith” also written in a light, detail-full style that makes SECOND PLACE: Herald-Journal, Lee Healy,
it easy to read!
THIRD PLACE: The Post and Courier, Chris “Artist, veteran, train robber”
Hanclosky, “Tennis”
SECOND PLACE: Herald-Journal, Andrew THIRD PLACE: The Sun News, David Wren,
Doughman, “Miles of Savings” “Rape victim keeps fighting”
ONLINE GENERAL NEWS/FEATURE VIDEO THIRD PLACE: The Herald, Anna Douglas, HONORABLE MENTION: The Sun News, Maya
“Downtown incentives spark questions”
FIRST PLACE: The Post and Courier, Chris T. Prabhu, “Learning something new”
Hanclosky, “PGA Tour”
HONORABLE MENTION: The Sun News, David
Judges’ Comments: Great camera shots and use of Wren, “Plant’s pollution stirs suit” SHORT STORY
music! FIRST PLACE: The Sun News, Maya T. Prabhu,
SECOND PLACE: The Post and Courier, Grace BUSINESS REPORTING “Unclaimed funds”
Beahm, “Pet Squirrel” FIRST PLACE: Herald-Journal, Trevor Judges’ Comments: Story and photos bring a smile
THIRD PLACE: The Greenville News, Mykal Anderson to your face.
McEldowney, “Lake Jocassee” Judges’ Comments: Anderson puts a real face on SECOND PLACE: The Sun News, David Wren,
business stories. I like the focus on issues appealing to “Burnouts”
a younger audience. Really makes the business section
THIRD PLACE: Independent Mail, Mike Ellis,
more personable.
“Toilet Heist”
Daily 20,000 - 50,000 SECOND PLACE: The Sun News, Dawn Bryant
THIRD PLACE: Independent Mail, Jennifer COLUMN WRITING
PICTORIAL Crossley Howard
FIRST PLACE: The Herald, Andrew Dys
FIRST PLACE: Independent Mail, Ken Ruinard, Judges’ Comments: Andrew’s entries stood out
“Wet foot forward” LIFESTYLE FEATURE WRITING because he found and focused on real people, and he
Judges’ Comments: Love the aesthetics of this FIRST PLACE: Morning News, Ellen Meder, told their stories in a compelling manner that made
photo. The lines of the concrete juxtapose umbrella. “Healing hidden war wounds” it impossible to stop reading until the end.
The kicker is the foot sticking out. Surrealist. Judges’ Comments: The author found the perfect SECOND PLACE: The Herald, Don Worthington
Making art of real life. family to give this issue a human face, while THIRD PLACE: Herald-Journal, Linda Cobb
SECOND PLACE: Herald-Journal, Michael balancing good information from health
Justus, “Roofing Crew” professionals trained in treating PTSD.
SERIES OF ARTICLES
THIRD PLACE: Herald-Journal, Alex C. Hicks SECOND PLACE: Morning News, Ellen Meder, FIRST PLACE: The Herald, Jonathan McFadden
Jr., “Graduation” “How I learned to shoot like a girl”
and Julie Graham, “Good Grief, we love
HONORABLE MENTION: Herald-Journal, Alex THIRD PLACE: Independent Mail, Mike Ellis, comics”
C. Hicks Jr., “After the game” “Rock of Ages” Judges’ Comments: Outstanding! Thoroughly
HONORABLE MENTION: Independent Mail, enjoyed reading these wonderful stories. Way to
Ken Ruinard, “Signs in raindrops” NEWS FEATURE WRITING think outside the box! Great job!
FIRST PLACE: The Herald, Andrew Dys, “God SECOND PLACE: Herald-Journal, Jenny Arnold,
SPOT NEWS REPORTING give me one more chance” “Stand your ground law”
FIRST PLACE: Herald-Journal, Jenny Arnold, Judges’ Comments: Compelling story told in such a THIRD PLACE: The Sun News, David Wren,
“Violence disrupts worship service” way that you can imagine being there for every “Rape case revisited”
Judges’ Comments: This reporter hustled on a step of the incident and recovery with Mitch
Sunday morning to capture dramatic violence and Altman.
heroics as they unfolded. She did a great job and SECOND PLACE: Independent Mail, Charmaine
added many voiced to her story. Smith-Miles, “One magical night”
SECOND PLACE: Herald-Journal, Kim Kimzey, THIRD PLACE: The Sun News, Issac Bailey,
“Blaze hits former plant” “General laid raid ground work”
THIRD PLACE: The Herald, Jonathan
McFadden, “Local man dies cutting grass”

13. 2012 SCPA News Contest Winners • 13
REPORTING IN DEPTH
FIRST PLACE: The Herald, Andrew Dys, Jamie
Self, Shawn Cetrone and Nicole E. Smith,
“Tornado deaths, devastation and recovery”
Judges’ Comments: Excellent coverage. Great
stories on the people affected. A very thorough job
by this team... I am impressed! Great work!
SECOND PLACE: The Herald, Jamie Self,
“Murderer’s release from York Co. jail”
THIRD PLACE: The Herald, Andrew Dys,
“Court: Clover man has too much junk”
HONORABLE MENTION: The Herald, Jonathan
McFadden, “Kenny Allen recovers from dog
mauling”
BEAT REPORTING
FIRST PLACE: The Herald, Jonathan
McFadden, “Public Safety”
Judges’ Comments: Mr. McFadden’s work shows an
ability to dig deep, fast. His coverage of the
controversy over bond amounts in a drug sting
proves particularly insightful and offered readers
context about a complex issue.
SECOND PLACE: The Herald, Andrew Dys,
“Public Safety”
THIRD PLACE: Herald-Journal, Jenny Arnold,
“Law Enforcement”
SPOT SPORTS STORY
FIRST PLACE: The Sun News, Alan Blondin,
“McIlroy wins in record fashion”
Judges’ Comments: Good angle on a major story.
SECOND PLACE: Herald-Journal, Eric Boynton,
“Fans gather to show support”
THIRD PLACE: The Sun News, Ryan Young and
SECOND PLACE Sports Action Photo: Mandy Ferguson, The Greer Citizen, “Up to the challenge”
Kurt Knapek, “Coastal Carolina reassigns
Bennett”
SINGLE PAGE ONE DESIGN SINGLE FEATURE PAGE DESIGN
SPORTS FEATURE STORY FIRST PLACE: The Herald, Noelle Edwards FIRST PLACE: Herald-Journal, Todd Money
FIRST PLACE: The Herald, Darin Gantt, Judges’ Comments: The front page was balanced – Judges’ Comments: Bubbles can be risky, but with
“Carrying the torch” making good use of art, headlines and text to offset the theme of Titanic as the main story, it was a
Judges’ Comments: This story was a difficult one to hard news with a feature story. Good use of text nice link to its sinking. Great headline and use of
tell. It rose above your average sports feature and wrapping around medal cutout and nice play of color. And I liked the promos at the bottom as well.
provided a window into the psyche of a man who various font sizes/bolds/thins. Good, clean page.
many readers could relate to. SECOND PLACE: Herald-Journal, Todd Money SECOND PLACE: Independent Mail, Kylie Yerka
SECOND PLACE: The Sun News, Alan Blondin, THIRD PLACE: Herald-Journal, Shana Gray THIRD PLACE: Herald-Journal, Todd Money
“Family links”
THIRD PLACE: Herald-Journal, Eric Boynton, INSIDE PAGE DESIGN SINGLE SPORTS PAGE DESIGN
“Small ball” FIRST PLACE: The Herald, Rebekah Lewis FIRST PLACE: Herald-Journal, Nick Foster
Judges’ Comments: Well-designed photo package. Judges’ Comments: There were several Spartanburg
Pull-out quote and shaded infobox give this a big- sports pages that stood out and its staff knows
city, polished feel. what it’s doing. Foster’s front featured a great photo
SECOND PLACE: Herald-Journal, Todd Money that tells the story. It’s simple, clean and draws the
THIRD PLACE: Independent Mail, Kylie Yerka eye in.
SECOND PLACE: Herald-Journal, Robert
Walton
THIRD PLACE: Herald-Journal, Mike McCombs

14. 14 • 2012 SCPA News Contest Winners
SPORTS FEATURE PHOTO
FIRST PLACE AND BEST OF THE BEST:
Independent Mail, Sefton Ipock, “Slap in the
face”
Judges’ Comments: Unusual. Funny photo of a
serious moment. Great timing.
SECOND PLACE: Independent Mail, Sefton
Ipock, “Westside fans celebrate Friday’s 60-
56 win over rival T.L. Hanna”
THIRD PLACE: Herald-Journal, John Byrum,
“No Celebration for Second Place”
HONORABLE MENTION: Independent Mail,
Sefton Ipock, “Rally Caps”
HONORABLE MENTION: Independent Mail,
Nathan Gray, “D.W. Daniel High School
football team breaks through a paper banner”
PERSONALITY PHOTOGRAPH OR PORTRAIT
FIRST PLACE: Independent Mail, Nathan Gray,
“Robert “Mountain Man” Perry”
Judges’ Comments: Picture that screams
personality with the background, clothing and dog.
THIRD PLACE Personality Photograph or Portrait: Jonathan Dyer, The Beaufort Gazette, “Drill Instructor” Nice lighting.
SECOND PLACE: Independent Mail, Ken
SPOT NEWS PHOTO FEATURE PHOTO Ruinard, “Karson’s tops”
FIRST PLACE: Independent Mail, Sefton Ipock, FIRST PLACE AND BEST OF THE BEST: THIRD PLACE: Herald-Journal, Alex C. Hicks
“A man cries while talking to Investigator” Independent Mail, Nathan Gray, “Hillbilly Day” Jr., “Terry James”
Judges’ Comments: Strong emotion. Crossing the Judges’ Comments: Strong human interest and HONORABLE MENTION: Independent Mail,
line. timing make this picture stand out. Ken Ruinard, “Ron Wilson”
SECOND PLACE: Independent Mail, Ken SECOND PLACE: Herald-Journal, Alex C. Hicks
Ruinard, “Father to son” Jr., “A child’s game” PHOTO SERIES OR PHOTO STORY
THIRD PLACE: Independent Mail, Ken THIRD PLACE: Independent Mail, Sefton Ipock, FIRST PLACE: Independent Mail, Nathan Gray,
Ruinard, “License and registration?” “Splash” “Rodeo”
HONORABLE MENTION: Independent Mail, HONORABLE MENTION: Morning News, Judges’ Comments: Effective use of silhouette and
Rebecca J. Ducker, “Liza Hudson” strong diagonals.
Sefton Ipock, “Storage Building Fire”
HONORABLE MENTION: Independent Mail, SECOND PLACE: The Sun News, Janet
Nathan Gray, “Wreck Interstate 85 lucky” SPORTS ACTION PHOTO Blackmon Morgan, “Tobacco Farming”
FIRST PLACE: The Sun News, Janet Blackmon THIRD PLACE: The Sun News, Janet Blackmon
GENERAL NEWS PHOTO Morgan, “Milton’s Evan Nolte dives for a Morgan, “Mud”
FIRST PLACE: Morning News, Gavin Jackson, loose ball”
“Rouse funeral” Judges’ Comments: Good floor action shot, which is DAILY NEWSPAPER WEBSITE
Judges’ Comments: Emotional photo, captures hard to get in basketball. Facial expressions are a FIRST PLACE: The Herald
gravity of situation. Planned, but well composed. stopper. Judges’ Comments: Really like all of the news you
SECOND PLACE: Morning News, John D. SECOND PLACE: Independent Mail, Nathan get on the website “above the fold.” In fact, the
Gray, “Softball” quantity of news you get throughout the home page
Russell, “Spelling Bee” is impressive. Video quality could be better, but the
THIRD PLACE: The Sun News, Janet Blackmon THIRD PLACE: Independent Mail, Nathan Gray, placement of videos on home page and variety of
Morgan, “Sylvia Woods burial” “Lees-McRae College’s Scott Hudgins” multimedia offered is great. Databases make this
HONORABLE MENTION: Herald-Journal, Alex HONORABLE MENTION: Independent Mail, site stand out. It’s news you can use, easy to find,
C. Hicks Jr., “Holding on to his honor” Nathan Gray, “UNC-Pembroke’s Aaron and keeps you on the site.
Parnell is tagged out by Anderson University SECOND PLACE: Independent Mail
catcher Brett Scarberry” THIRD PLACE: Herald-Journal