(29 entries)

Judge: David Boardman, assistant managing editor, Seattle Times
Boardman has been the editor on two Pulitzer prize winning projects and has been a Pulitzer juror twice. He has worked for the Seattle Times 16 years as a reporter and editor.

First place
GINGER SCOTT-EIDEN, JANICE TARLETON and BRUCE ELLISON
Surprise Today
"Duo charged with killing of local woman"
"Excellent, complete coverage of this crime. Well-written and informative, with two good accompanying pieces on how residents of the community should respond."

Second place
KATY WHITEHOUSE
Payson Roundup
"Historic bar up in flames"
"Nicely told tale, with particularly strong lead and good background material on why readers should care."

Third place
(Tie)
MARY ELLEN CORBETT
The Bisbee News
"Firefighters in high drama: rescue saves Mexican boy"
"Strong account of the dramatic, cross-border rescue. Good use of detail, quotes."

and

GEORGE WITKOWSKI
Surprise Independent
"Head injury turns into mixed blessing for boy"
"Clearly written story that reflects excellent background research on this complicated medical situation."