(20 entries)

Judge: Elaine Povich, Newsday
Povich is Washington correspondent for Newsday, covering Congress and politics. She is the author of "Partners and Adversaries: The Contentious Connection Between Congress and the Media."

First place
DOUG MURPHY and ADRIANE HOPKINS
Ahwatukee Foothills News
"Undercover officers expose drug sales inboth local high schools" "The story, written on deadline, showed a depth and understanding of a beat that takes the reader beyond the spot nes and gives perspective to the news. The sidebar provides 'news you can use.'"

Second place
ANDY MCINNIS
The Daily Courier
"Protection or Destruction? Babbitt eyes Perry Mesa for National Monument."
"Combined high-profile visit of Interior Secretary with local knowledge of the issues to give depth and perspective to the piece. Also nicely written."

Third place
ADRIANE HOPKINS
Ahwatukee Foothills News
"Twisty Kats: Good idea or despicable?"
"Shows enterprise in folloiwng up a chance event of a friend's experience and turning it into a fine news article with reach."

Honorable mention
PATRICK CAVANAUGH
Northwest Explorer
"AEP investigation"
"Good job but should have been in the investigative reporting category."