(30 entries)

Judge: Rem Rieder, editor, American Journalism Review

First Place
JANA BOMMERSBACH
Phoenix Magazine
"Red light district," "Off the hook" and "Unhooked with dignity"
"Clear, powerful writing. Very high-impact pieces. Personal at times, but not at all self-indulgent. Interesting array of subjects. Simply first-rate work. Kept my interest throughout."

Second Place
BOB SCHUSTER
The Tribune
"Time for NRA for join search for solutions," "White trash speaks out" and "Agreement on abortion? It's possible"
"Cogent, well-argued pieces. The writing isn't flashy, but is spare and very effective. Clear, nuanced thinking about two inflammatory issues, gun control and abortion. Not at all shrill on a subject that can bring out that trait."

Third Place
DAVID HOLTHOUSE
Phoenix New Times
"Freddy Kroger," "Muzzle puzzle" and "Whither warehouse?"
"Excellent writing. Real passion. An appealing hipness. I particularly liked the `Whither Warehouse?' piece. Judicious tightening would have made these pieces even stronger."