(60 entries)

Judge: Don Fry, Poynter Institute for Journalism Studies
Fry, an independent writing coach, helps writers to write better, editors to edit better, and managers to organize better. He headed the writing and ethics faculties at the Poynter Institute in St. Petersburg, Florida, and edited the Institute's series Best Newspaper Writing. He is now an independent consultant and writes novels ­ the most recent about a newsroom that hires a hitman to solve its management problems.

First Place
AMY SILVERMAN
Phoenix New Times
"The Terminator"
"This somewhat outrageous piece gets the reader up close on a fascinating personality. Deep reporting, a good ear for quotes, and sheer courage makes this profile unusual and outstanding."

Second Place
MICHAEL KIEFER
Phoenix New Times
"Buck's the System."
"This deeply reported piece succeeds by setting scenes and cleverly dancing around its subject."

Third Place
AMANDA KINGSBURY
The Tribune
"Midas Touch."
"After a strong and charming lead, this piece sets out a series of scenes putting the reader in the presence of a tricky character."

Honorable Mention
SCOTT THOMSEN
The Associated Press
"Presidential candidate a study in contrasts."
"This narrowly focused profile explains one aspect of one person to the reader. It succeeds because of its economical phrasing and just plain shortness."