DAILY NEWSPAPER CATEGORY

Spot News Reporting

First Place

"Wait, see for Maui"

Nanea  Kalani, Melissa Tanji, Chris Hamilton, Tressa Verber

Maui News

Judge’s comments: “Solid coverage that touched all the bases.”

Finalists

“Oracle Corp. CEO to buy Lanai”

Nanea  Kalani, Melissa Tanji

Maui News

“Man pulls a gun”      

Lila  Fujimoto

Maui News

General News/Enterprise Reporting

First Place

“Solid Waste”

Nancy Cook Lauer, Erin Miller

West Hawaii Today

Judge’s comments: "This package clearly has the best material in the category, but the reporters and editor need to do a better job of tying it together for the reader. It begins with strong facts suggesting a watchdog story is in store. But there's no nut graph and no attempt to tell the reader why so much money is being wasted. On the jump, the story loses its focus and lets public officials off the hook. I would stay on this story. Keep digging. "

FINALISTS

“No Kayak for You”

Erin Miller

West Hawaii Today   

Judge’s comments: "This story has a strong lede and is told authoritatively. I'd like to see more on the economic impact of closing the bay to tours. I'd like to see more on the importance of this to tourists and recreation. In other words, more impact."  

“Wailuku Main Street”

Ilima Loomis

Maui News

Judge’s comments: “This story exposes a clear problem about accountability for this nonprofit. I love some of the digging the reporter did. I'd like to see the reporter go beyond the government agency and the nonprofit. How accountable are other nonprofits that take government money? What do experts in the field think? Is the new administration putting the squeeze on other nonprofits or did it find issues with just this one? How important is this nonprofit to the community? What do real people think about its work in the community? Are there political connections I'm missing? Is this a group of powerful people in the community not accustomed to being questioned?”

Category comments: "I thought the stories in this category could have been stronger. Many are short dailies that go little beyond the officials I would expect the reporters to contact.

The Scales of Justice story seems like an ambitious project that lacked a clear focus. It could have been helped with stronger editing and storytelling. The first few sentences have compelling information, but perhaps the team could have found a stronger way to top the story. Leading with a records request is a little too dry for most readers. "

Feature Writing/Short Form

First Place

“Marines form unusual friendship with lion”

Carolyn Lucas-Zenk

West Hawaii Today

Finalists

"Ride, Zaly ride"

Chelsea Jensen            

West Hawaii Today

“Pu‘u O‘o”

Colin Stewart               

Hawaii Tribune-Herald

Feature Writing/Long Form

First Place

“Vanilla skies”

Carla Tracy

Maui News

Judge’s comments: “Informative and engaging”

Feature Page Design

First Place

“Faces of survival”

Meg Scarbrough

Hawaii Tribune-Herald

Judge’s comments: "This winning design clearly stood out from the competition by emphasizing storytelling through faces, images and copy blocks, without relying on gimmicks or cluttering the page."

Category comment: "Entries were high in energy and effort, although some took design elements to the extreme and not to the benefit of the reader. The winning entry had the right combination of sophistication and reader-first approach."

NONDAILY NEWSPAPER

General News/Enterprise Reporting

First Place

"Hi on Ice (Cream)"

James Cave

Honolulu Weekly

Judge’s comments: "Well researched, well sourced, well told. Nice headline too.”

Finalists

"The Invisibles; Come to Table"

Wanda A. Adams

Honolulu Weekly

Judge’s comments: “Loved the story. But not the lead: Too much, literally, and too much focus on list of big names and where they are or are not. Once we get to the invisibles, the story flows."

"David Murdock trying to sell Lanai"

Duane Shimogawa

Pacific Business News

Judge’s comments: “A good, newsy read."

Feature Writing

First Place

"Her Natural Home"

Mindy Pennybacker

Honolulu Weekly

Judge’s comments: “This piece is highly informative re: green construction  but manages to also be interesting by telling the story through one family's experience."

Finalist

"Tackling the All-Marine Rugby Team"

Christine Cabalo

Hawaii Marine

Judge’s comments: “An interesting look at how working on one's hobby (in this case rugby) can help one in one's profession (soldiering), Liked how the writer did not go overboard on the small size of the guy playing a physically demanding sport. That fact is significant, of course, but the story is more than that (some feature writers wouldn't get past it)."

Community Reporting

First Place

"Country's Time; Turtle Bay EIS; Saving what Matters"

Joan Conrow, Blake McElheny, Gil Riviere

Honolulu Weekly

Judge’s comments: “Very thorough reporting on an issue that is clearly close to the hearts of readers who live in the community. A classic tale of development vs. nature. Good stuff!"

Finalists

"Running with the devil dogs"

Christine Cabalo

Hawaii Marine

Judge’s comments: “Loved the photography and the story was nice, too. Captured the essence of community involvement, a key role of newspapers."

“Buried Truth; Rail Broke Burial Rules; Buying Rail Estate; Honolulu's Big Bus Shibai; Defend Dillingham: or Get Ready for El Hell"

Tiffany Hervey, Tom Coffman, Kevin  O'Leary, Matthew  Kain, Curt Sanburn"

Honolulu Weekly

INTERNET

Online News Reporting

First Place

“Can a White Federal Agent Who Killed a Hawaii Local Get a Fair Trial?”

Nick Grube

Honolulu Civil Beat

Judge’s comments: “Strong writing and reporting and choice of subject matter. Clear explanation of past and present events. Nice to have clear links to other resources.”                         

Finalists

“Concerns Of Voter Intimidation Raised In Cachola Victory”

Nick Grube, Chad Blair, Michael Levine

Honolulu Civil Beat

Judge’s comments: “Well-written with good data and charts. Quotes stand out as strong. Good links to other resources for more info.”                   

“McCormack, Wee add more Lavaman crowns to trophy cabinets”

Karin Stanton, Baron Sekiya

Hawaii 24/7

Judge’s comments: “Very interesting subject. Great detail and exposition. Video element was also strong - makes good use of digital medium.” 

Category comments: "Strong writing, reporting, editing and storytelling are common to the winners. Would love to see even more digital elements when possible, but all the winners drew me into the narrative and prompted me to read additional stories related to the contest entry (and that's more important than the medium)."

Online Feature Reporting

First Place

“Land Barren: Japanese Billionaire Is Raising Eyebrows, Razing Houses”

 Adrienne LaFrance

Honolulu Civil Beat

Judge’s comments: “Loved it. Well-written and really interesting story with great mystery. (If I have a suggestion it would have be to include even more visuals of the houses/properties.)”

Finalists

“Honolulu candy makers resurrect dying Japanese craft”

Diane Ako, Tracy Arakaki

Staradvertiserblogs.com

Judge’s comments: “Fascinating video on original subject matter. Well executed.”

“Inouye's Last Wish Is Abercrombie's Biggest Burden”

Nick Grube, Chad Blair

Honolulu Civil Beat

Judge’s comments: “A fascinating range of subject matter in this category. The winners were all well-written and presented.”

Best Multimedia Presentation

First Place

“Jana's Story: Life as an Underage Sex Trafficking Victim in Honolulu”

Malia Zimmerman, Jim  Dooley, Duncan Armstrong

Hawaii Reporter                             

Judge’s comments: “Comprehensive in writing and video. Very Well Done!!”

Finalists

“VIDEO: Kahuku Residents Fight To Save Homes From Developer”

Joe  Rubin, Sophie Cocke

Honolulu Civil Beat

“FOCUS: Meet Kenny Endo, The Taiko Drummer”

Nathan Eagle, Anita  Hofschneider

Honolulu Civil Beat

Judge’s comments: “The video is a compliment to the written story instead of re-telling the story. Very well done.”              

Category comment: “The entries in this category were all very good making the decision very difficult. The top choices show that multimedia journalism is excellent in Hawaii.”

Best Overall News Site

First Place

“CivilBeat.com”

Staff

Honolulu Civil Beat

Judge’s comments: "The site is clean, easy to navigate, and most importantly, dedicated to news."  

Finalists

“Pacific Business News.com”

Staff

Pacific Business News

Judge’s comments: “I can tell that news is the top priority.”

“HawaiiReporter.com”

Malia Zimmerman

Hawaii Reporter

Best Hawaii News Blogger (1-person site)

First Place

“All Hawaii News”

Nancy Cook Lauer

All Hawaii News

Judge’s comments: “This site represents an impressive amount of work for a single blogger. And it's incredibly informative. Nice job.”

Category comment: “Only one entry here but it's a good one.”

Best Hawaii Features Blogger (1-person site)

First Place

“Sugar + Shake”

Dawn Sakamoto Paiva

sugarandshake.com

Judge’s comments: "This blog wins the category because of its amazing photography and ability to make my stomach growl. It's also nicely written, with just the right casual touch for a blog but packed with enough information to make it a must-read. Loved this blog."                   

Finalist

“The Cat Dish. The Adventures of Catherine Toth

Catherine Toth

www.thecatdish.com

Judge’s comments: “I appreciated the variety of topics covered here and the emotional post about the writer's grandparents.”             

Category comments: “Two nice entries that I enjoyed reading.”

MAGAZINE

Business Reporting

First Place

“The Stogeyman”

Michael Shapiro

Hana Hou!

Judge’s comments: "Michael Shapiro skillfully combines a personality profile, a business story and a unique slice of Hawai'ian life in this engaging read. He places us right there in the tobacco field with Les Drent in the first paragraph and rewards us with several ‘gold coins’ throughout the piece."                   

Finalists

“Let's Make a Deal”

Shara Enay

Hawaii Business

Judge’s comments: "Shara Enay provides us with a fun, interesting look at the people that buy and sell outside the typical realm of retail stores."      

“Kakaako's Building Boom”

Beverly Creamer

Hawaii Business

Judge’s comments: “Beverly Creamer's article is a well-researched and comprehensive look at an important transformation taking place in Hawai'i's urban landscape.”

Industry or Trade Reporting

First Place

“Dragon 'Em Around”

David Thompson

Honolulu Magazine

Judge’s comments: “A well-written look at the growing number of Chinese visitors and how they are being welcomed by Honolulu's tourism industry. The inside look at one group's whirlwind tour of the city is packed with interesting details that sets this entry apart in a category full of good stories.”

Finalists

“Federal Law Gives Hawaii Longliners Free Rein to Ignore International Quota”

Patricia Tummons, Teresa Dawson

Environment Hawai'i

“Global Orchards”

Janice  Crowl, Michael  Shapiro, Julia  Steele

Hana Hou!

Profile

First Place

“Eric Yeaman Revives an Island Icon”

Beverly Creamer

Hawaii Business

Judge’s comments: "Sharp prose and thorough reporting combine to make a well-rounded, solid profile of an island mover and shaker."

Finalists

“The Lava Dwellers”

David Thompson

Honolulu Magazine

Judge’s comments: “A fascinating examination of an eclectic community of real outsiders written with great style.”           

“New World”

Beverly Creamer

Hawaii Business

Judge’s comments: “An often nail-biting examination of the trials and triumphs of a local business organized in a intriguing manner.”

Feature Writing/Short Form

First Place

“Being Hawaiian men and women of worth”

Kathy Muneno, John Matsuzaki

Ka Wai Ola

Judge’s comments: “An intriguing story powered by graceful writing and strong reporting.”

Finalists

“In search of a song”

Lynn Cook

Ka Wai Ola

Judge’s comments: "A book review, a slice of history and a look at local culture make this story a satisfying read."             

“Seeing Stars”

Derek Paiva

HAWAI'I Magazine

Judge’s comments: “It made me see the sights – and the stars.”

Feature Writing/Long Form

First Place

“A Good Egg”

Jennifer Meleana Hee

Honolulu Magazine

Judge’s comments: “A fascinating first-person account of a woman's journey of egg donation. Honest and nicely written.”

Finalists

“Create a Business in 54 Hours”

Jason Ubay

Hawaii Business

Judge’s comments: "A useful, lightly written description of a cutting-edge trend."

“Hawaii's Richest People”

Dennis Hollier

Hawaii Business

Judge’s comments: “People love stories about rich people. This one is breezy and tells readers what went on behind the scenes to determine who's the richest.”

Page Design                

First Place

“Best of Hawaii 2012”

Mae Ariola

HAWAI'I Magazine

Judge’s comments: "Comprehensive and intriguing, every section of this Best of Hawaii mixes beautiful photography with fun illustrations to make an editorial package that keeps the pages turning. Subdued color palette for the backgrounds and graphic elements allow the images to pop. A nice variety of photography from many angles. This ""Best Of"" is the best of."      

Finalists

“Going Upcountry”

Mae Ariola

HAWAI'I Magazine

Judge’s comments: "Nothing says country better than a chicken! The opening spread of ‘Growing Up Country’ captures the essence of the story beautifully. Gorgeous photography throughout with great thought to the pacing of the feature."

“Honolulu in 1888: The City that Made the Magazine”

Cody Kawamoto

Honolulu Magazaine

Judge’s comments: "The ‘Honolulu in 1888: The City That Made the Magazine’ is a great example of utilizing existing resources and making them feel relevant and engaging. Graphic treatment marries the subject matter perfectly and it feels just right."

Magazine Cover

First Place

“November 2012: Honolulu in 1888”

Cody Kawamoto

Honolulu Magazine

Judge’s comments: "With such a rich history to draw upon, Honolulu's 125th anniversary cover feels both nostalgic and modern at the same time. The typography is balanced and engaging. The subject in the photo must have known he would be on the cover 125 years later! Great quality for such an old image. Kudos for getting it right!"

Finalists

“Bodies of Art”

Shuzo Uemoto, Keone Nunes, Sarah Pacheco, Nelson Gaspar

Ka Wai Ola

Judge’s comments: “Was immediately drawn to the composition of the cover. The tattoos are in positions that flow naturally for emphasis and become integral graphic elements to the overall effect. Nice lighting on the photography.”

“Hawai'i Magazine March/April issue”

Mae Ariola

HAWAI'I Magazine

Judge’s comments: “The lighting and color gradations draw attention straight to the subject. Her board tilting slightly upward gives a nice sense of motion and guides the reader to the cover lines. Very pleasing to the eye.”

NEWSPAPERS

Business Reporting

First Place

“David Murdock trying to sell Lanai”

Duane Shimogawa

Pacific Business News

Judge’s comments: "This is a complicated story, but the clear way it's written and the many interesting details make it easy to follow. The reporter clearly worked hard to dig into this sale and give it the coverage it deserved."       

Finalists

“Checking Out”

Erin Miller, Chelsea Jensen

West Hawaii Today   

Judge’s comments: "This could have been a simple daily news story, but the context added made it  more. The human element of hotel employees woven into the narrative made it an engaging read. Well-written deadline story."

“To market, but where to?; Generation Next: Food Growers; Is There Hope for Ho'opili?"

Wanda A. Adams, Tiffany Hervey, Kevin O'Leary

Honolulu Weekly

Judge’s comments: “The highlight of this series is Kevin O'Leary's thoroughly researched overview of O'ahu's land-use controversy.”

News Page Design

First Place

“Tribune-Herald, A1”

Staff

Hawaii Tribune-Herald

Judge’s comments: "Nice page on deadline, the equal play was the right choice given the news of the day. The top 2 photos were nice the down page photo about extended polling hours was hard read. would have perhaps played up the run off photos bigger and forgone the polling photo. also would have liked to see the return numbers out in display type to emphasize the closeness of the race. That said election night pages are hard to pull off and this one was nicely done. "

STUDENT

Student News Reporting in Any Media

First Place

“Tax Pyramid”

Marcie Kagawa

Hawaii Business

Judge’s comments: "Well researched, reported and written. This entry gets the edge over the other because it seems a little more complicated."

Finalist

“Hawaii Struggles to Level the Playing Field”

 Marcie Kagawa

Hawaii Business

Judge’s comments: “Another great entry. No problems here; the 1st place entry just seemed to tackle a slightly more complicated issue.”

Category comments: "Both of these impressive entries were from the same reporter and you could tell. They are well researched, reported and written. It was hard to choose."

Student Feature Reporting in Any Media

First Place

A Computer for Every Student

Marcie Kagawa

Hawaii Business

Judge’s comments: “Well reported and well written. Great combination. I felt like I learned a lot from this story.”

Finalists

“Doing it All”

Jennifer Meyers

Hawaii Business

Judge’s comments: “Great stories about an interesting concept.”   

“Heaven or Hell”

Marcie Kagawa

Hawaii Business

Judge’s comments: “The strength of this story is its good examples and nice research.”

Category comments: "Overall, this was a great group of student-written materia

RADIO

General News/Enterprise Reporting            

First Place

“‘Mother Of Outcasts’ To Be A Saint For Leprosy Work”

Heidi Chang                

National Public Radio

Feature Reporting

First Place

“Soundtracking ‘The Descendants’ With ‘Real’ Hawaiian Music

Judge’s comments: “Terrific job of weaving the music into the story, connecting it with what the subjects of the piece were talking about.”                   

Heidi Chang, Tom Cole

National Public Radio

TELEVISION

Business Reporting

First Place

“New flights to Fukuoka allow Hawaii residents to enjoy Kyushu”

Vanessa Stewart, Taires Hiranaka

KHON2    

General News/Enterprise Reporting

“O'ahu's south shores invaded by mysterious creature”

Brianne Randle, Greg Lau

KHON2    

Judge’s comments: “Interesting story about millions of mysterious creatures washing up on shore and how experts are trying to learn more about them. Great use of video and storytelling to draw the viewers in to want to find out more.”

Finalists

“EXCLUSIVE: Ala Moana murder suspect gives chilling interview”

Brianne Randle

KHON2

Judge’s comments: “Great enterprising story with an interview that shine the light on a murder suspect for the public and police as the investigation continues.”

“Laptop stolen, airline gate-check agent arrested”

Gina Mangieri

KHON2

Judge’s comments: "Great job helping a viewer get assistance after her laptop was stolen. With a lack of video because the crime happened in a different state, the report at least provided pictures to show who did it and where it occurred."      

Feature Reporting    

First Place

“Honolulu candy makers resurrect dying Japanese craft”

Diane Ako, Tracy  Arakaki

Diane Ako

Judge’s comments: “Great editing nats and writing. What a feature story is about.”

Finalists

“Waipahu boy diagnosed with cancer wants to meet The Rock”

Olena Heu

KHON2

Judge’s comments: “Touching story told well.”              

“KHON SPECIAL: Bee sting allergies and treatment”

Brianne Randle

KHON2

Judge’s comments: “Great insight into a personal story.”

Category comments: “Very good entries in this category.  Candy Makers distinguished itself among these three winners.”

Spot News Reporting

First Place

“Shark attack survivor home from the hospital”

Brianne Randle, Greg Lau

KHON2

Judge’s comments: “Nice story, covered all angles."

Investigative Reporting

First Place

“Nanakuli resident dumps trash in stream”

Kristine Uyeno, Gina Mangieri, Brianne Randle

KHON2

Judge’s comments: "Neighbor caught polluting stream. Experts reveal chemical and other dangers to children, who swim in polluted stream. As a result of the investigation, the state takes action. Well told."                                                                                                                                                     

Videography              

First Place

“Honolulu candy makers resurrect dying Japanese craft”

Diane Ako, Tracy Arakaki

Diane Ako

Judge’s comments: "A very nice entry, terrific B-roll, good interviews, and it moves well. The children really bring the piece home. Nice intro with the drumming and sushi. Criticisms would be that it feels about 30 seconds too long, and blown audio at the beginning with the Taiko drums. Nice entry.”

Category comments: "Only one entry, but the winner deserving of an award.  Good piece."

Series Reporting/Documentary/Special News

First Place

“St. Marianne: Call of Devotion”

Gina Mangieri, Taires Hiranaka

KHON2

Judge’s comments: "Great storytelling of the cannonization into sainthood.  With limited video, the producers of this report brought this story to life with good post production effects of old pictures.  Great to see a station dedicate this much time and effort to an important part of history."

Finalist

“Under the Sea”

Justin Kanno, Olena Heu

KHON2

Judge’s comments: “A fascinating look at the adventures in Hawaii underwater and above water.  Great camerawork and use of video.”

ALL MEDIA

Column Writing or Blog/News

First Place

“Hawaii Monitor”

Ian Lind

Honolulu Civil Beat

Judge’s comments: "I love a columnist that sees his or her job as an investigatory one. These columns were enlightening and interesting - and I suspect forced some changes. Nice job."                

Finalists

“Board Talk”

Teresa Dawson

Environment Hawai'i

Judge’s comments: "Although this entry is not what I typically think of as a column, I appreciate that it's a place to hold public board accountable. I'm sure it is very well read."

“Making the scene”

Rick Chatenever

Maui News

Judge’s comments: “This was the most traditional of the entries and it was a good read.”

Category comments: “Not your typical collection of columns but they were all good for the reader.”

Column Writing or Blog/Features or Sports

First Place

“Environment Column: The Plant Hunter; Hail Snails!; Crop Sharing; Nest Building; Chase Norton”

Sheila Sarhangi

Honolulu Magazine

Judge’s comments: "I didn't expect rare fauna, snails and song birds to capture my interest but Sheila Sarhangi found a multitude of different ways to do just that. From her writing (‘rosy wolf snails — a cannibalistic snail from Florida that sucks native snails out of their shells’ and ‘Millerbirds were wiped off Laysan Island in the early 1900s after a series of destructive events, including a guano-mining operation and the introduction of environmentally destructive rabbits’) to bizarre facts (poison that reduces swelling of a broken arm, the various forms of protection for snails)."        

Finalists

"Afterthoughts”

Michael Keany

Honolulu Magazine   

Judge’s comments: "Michael Keany's collection of columns were a close second. Chinatown Lockdown was an excellent look at a serious issue, Risky Business was an interesting piece on a new phenomenon though I would have liked to have seen him take a stronger stand on whether the ‘arcades’ were a positive or negative and Thinking Continental was a nice contrast to the two news-ier columns."

"My Job: Bike Messenger, Ocularist, Tattoo Artist, Recreating Elvis on Stage, Entomologist"

Catherine Toth, Stacy Yuen Hernandez, Michael Hanson

Hawaii Business

Judge’s comments: "A neat idea. My only complaint would be some of them left me wanting more information (ocularist, Elvis impersonator)."

Government Reporting

First Place

"On the Trail of the University of Hawaii’s Missing $200,000

Malia Zimmerman, Jim Dooley

Hawaii Reporter

Judge’s comments: "Malia Zimmerman and Jim Dooley of the Hawaii Reporter win this category for showing great tenacity in flying across the country to knock on doors in search of those who defrauded the University of Hawaii out of $200,000 by posing as agents for Stevie Wonder. These stories give readers a look inside how the fake agents used a UPS store mailbox as their world headquarters and many other details that werenƒ??t available unless they went to the scene."

Finalists

Primary problems to ponder

Nancy Cook Lauer

West Hawaii Today

Judge’s comments: “This story takes voters behind the scenes of a primary election mess in which many of Hawaii County’s polls opened late and the state took over running the general election. Nancy Cook Lauer makes outstanding use of public records to show that top officials knew they had a mess on their hands before the primary but didn’t work together to sort it out.”

Supreme Court Weighs Jurisdiction in Appeal of Decision on Maui Water Teresa Dawson

Environment Hawai'i

Judge’s comments: “This entry from Environment Hawai‘i gives readers a comprehensive review of years of disputes over West Maui water rights. A big-picture examination of the environmental impact challenges surrounding the issue.”

Breaking News Reporting

First Place

"Wait, see for Maui"

Nanea  Kalani, Melissa Tanji, Chris Hamilton

Maui News

Judge’s comments: "This piece was punctuated with a strong opening quote on an ‘overprediction’ followed by tons of detail. Would have been great for a full days' work but only put together in in a few hours. Great job by the staff."

Finalist

Will Bill Gates or Larry Ellison buy Lanai?

Duane Shimogawa

Pacific Business News

Judge’s comments: “I was very intrigued by the concept of selling this island and all the reporter did to track it done. An example of good work that can happen as a result of not giving in.”                                                                                                                                                                         

Health Reporting      

First Place

“Saving Healthcare”

Dennis Hollier

Hawaii Business

Finalists

“Professional Addicts”

Matthew Kain

Hawaii Business

“A Good Egg”

Jennifer Meleana Hee

Honolulu Magazine   

Sports Reporting

First Place

“Surfing the Stratosphere”

Paul Wood, Michael Shapiro, Julia Steele

Hana Hou!

Judge’s comments: "Fascinating read with vivid descriptions that take you into the wild, blue yonder of a sport I never even knew existed. The writer does a terrific job mixing first-person experiences with pure reporting – a tough mixture to pull off but it works in this case. I think anyone who didn't know about this sport, including me, gets a clear picture of why these men love to live life at the top of the world. Well done!"

Finalists

“I Am A Roller Derby Girl”

Tiffany Hill

Honolulu Magazine   

Judge’s comments: "This is a marvelous look inside the unique world of roller derby that I think any reader can identify with. Not sure if I have more kudos for the writer's ability to tell a first-person story with such imagery passion or the pure bravery of playing this sport. Love the ""stage"" names, too."

“The Longest Ia”        

Ronald Williams, Jr., Michael Shapiro, Julia  Steele

Hana Hou!

Judge’s comments: "The writer skillfully tackles a tough story that makes for a compelling story. I'm sure it was a hit with those on the islands and particularly with those who speak the language. Also nice to see a sports story that goes deeper than wins and losses, injuries and insult."                   

Category comments: "Enjoyed reading all of the entries. The writing is fantastic, the subject matter is interesting and the sports go well beyond the normal ball-and-stick events that are the norm in so many other places. Thank you for giving me an opportunity to get a glimpse into the very interesting world of Hawaiian sports. It was a joy."

Arts/Entertainment Writing

First Place

“Songs of Kalaupapa”

Derek Ferrar, Michael  Shapiro, Julia Steele

Hana Hou!

Judge’s comments: "Congrats to the author for an educational, empathetic treatment of this subject matter. Dennis, Stephen and Patrick move in and out of the story seamlessly, leaving room for an appreciated history lesson. Effective use of song lyrics (in both languages). Simply a report that will stick with readers for a long time."

Finalists

“Hula U.”

Liza Simon, Michael Shapiro, Julia Steele

Hana Hou!

Judge’s comments: "A piece that succeeds in conveying sense of place, as well as the charisma of Taupouri Tangaro. High marks for this passage: ‘There is so much downward drive from the piko (navel) in this room that I feel like I am a piston in a V8 engine of human thighs.’"

My Scare Lady

James Cave

Honolulu Weekly

Judge’s comments: "A dynamic first-person report.”

Category comments: "Thanks for the opportunity to read all this great work!

Editorial Opinion

First Place

“Critical Review Should Have a Place in Reforestation Plans”

Patricia Tummons

Environment Hawai'i

Judge’s comments: "This editorial about reforestation plans for a 7,000-acre ranch poses many probing questions about how state and federal officials have overseen the proposal and makes an effective case in calling for more openness on how millions of dollars could be spent."

Finalist

“Afterthoughts: Chinatown Lockdown”

Michael Keany

Honolulu Magazine   

Judge’s comments: “A well-written and conversational piece that vividly explains the impact of crime on Honolulu's Chinatown neighborhood.”           

Editorial Cartoon/Illustration

First Place

“911 for the Life Aquatic”

Michael Byers

Honolulu Magazine   

Judge’s comments: “I loved looking at this artwork. The color and the size comparison between the whale and the man in the boat made me want to read the story. Excellent.”

Finalists

“Pritchett's Pen: Victoria's Secret Service”

John Pritchett

Hawaii Reporter

Judge’s comments: “Good used of image, color and clever idea. The cartoon effectively mocks the Secret Service for their members' failure in judgment."

“20 Things We Love About Hawaii Right Now: We Never Arrive At A Party Empty-Handed Even If The Host Insists/We Never Leave A Party Empty-Handed Because The Host Insists”

Tony Ablan

HAWAI'I Magazine

Judge’s comments: “Effective illustration that tells the story graphically.”

Category comments: "Judging editorial cartoons and illustrations are like comparing apples and oranges in that their goal is entirely different things. Graphically, the entries in this category were very strong."

Informational Graphic

First Place

“New Cool for Downtown”

Jen Tadaki Catanzariti

Hawaii Business

Judge’s comments: "This news graphic answers many of the important questions related to the project – the size, the cost, the timeline and whom it will affect."   

Category comments: "Editors would do well to remember that graphics editing isn't limited to the text in the graphic – the visuals need an editing eye, too. Your bottled cry for help has reached the mainland."

News Photography/Videography

First Place

“Hawaii a privileged viewpoint for a rare display”

Matthew Thayer

Maui News

Judge’s comments: “A compelling lede photo made this photo series take first place. It was nice to see the photographer made sure readers saw what the subjects in the photos were looking at. A solid package.”             

Finalists

“Hot new ride”

Matthew Thayer

Maui News                   

Judge’s comments: “We could tell the photographer is always prepared for spot news and was rewarded with this compelling image. Good job.”                              

“Pahala wildfire rages”

Hollyn Johnson

Hawaii Tribune-Herald

Judge’s comments: “We believe the two images displayed helped readers understand the impact of the fire on their community. Some photographers may have been too quick to tighten their frame on the firefighters but this photographer had the right presence of mind to show the size of the blaze which made this entry a finalist.”

Feature Photography/Videography

First Place

“The Ti of Life”

Leigh  Morrison, Dana  Edmunds, Samuel  Leigh, Kunio Hayashi

Hana Hou!

Judge’s comments: “The detail and colors of the plants are gorgeous and harmonious. The typography really enhances it as well.”

Finalists

“The Lava Dwellers"

Christine Hitt, David Thompson, Vanessa Kaneshiro, Christian Vetter

Honolulu Magazine   

Judge’s comments: "Really interesting story. The video really give the sense of being there, and what it would be like. Fascinating to see the lava in its molten form."               

Season of Obon

Consuela  Yokomura

HAWAI'I Magazine   

Judge’s comments: "The composition of each image is lovely, and the colors work well as a spread. Nice pairing. The design enhances it all well. Engaging."           

Category comments: "I can appreciate the skills needed to capture action photos, like in the newspaper shots, and the firefighting story. There were more entries worthy of mention."

Sports Photography/Videography

First Place

“Action-packed day at Makawao Rodeo”

Matthew Thayer

Maui News

Judge’s comments: An attention-grabbing lede photo set this entry apart from the rest.  We imagined ourselves falling off the back of the sheep after seeing the photo. Nice work by the photographer to be in the right place at the right time.

Finalists

“Illinois no ka oi”

Matthew Thayer

Maui News

Judge’s comments: “Nice to see photographer waited for a unique and humorous moment to occur. His patience was rewarded with a nice out-of-the-ordinary image.”

“I Am a Roller Derby Girl”

Vanessa Kaneshiro, Christine Hitt, Tiffany Hill

Honolulu Magazine

Judge’s comments: “We found this video entry to be a thorough explanation of a unique and uncommon sport. Great quotes and transitions plus a robust length made this entry a finalist.”

Photo/Video Essay

First Place

“Kalaupapa Memories”

Wayne Levin

Honolulu Magazine

Judge’s comments: “Amazing portraits that grab you and lure you into the story. Artful and full of detail. I love this feature. Very cohesive and holds together well to the end. Great package.”

Finalists

“Brothers in Fire”

Elyse Butler, Matt Mallams, Leigh Morrison, Samuel Lee, Kunio Hayashi Hana Hou!      

Judge’s comments: “Beautiful portraits. Consistent quality of images. Difficult to shoot.”

“First Responders”

David Croxford

Hawaii Business

Judge’s comments: "The photographer clearly had to make a great effort to get these images, and was possibly even in harm's way. Powerful."

Category comments: “Great entries. I love seeing a totally different culture/lifestyle than my own from the perspective of the people who live there.”

Headlines

First Place

"It May Look Like Magic, but It's Hard Work, Smart People, Dumb Mistakes, Nothing is Better Than Free”

Catherine Toth, Jolyn Okimoto Rosa, Matthew Kain

Hawaii Business

Judge’s comments: "A good collection of smart, imaginative headlines sets this entry apart. We like the subtle play on words."

Finalists

"The Sho Must Go On, Survival of the Fittest, Amber Waves, K-Hip, Endless Winter"

Michael  Shapiro, Julia Steele

Hana Hou!

“Descent Into Haole: ‘The Descendants’ Land Barren: Japanese Billionaire is Raising Eyebrows, Razing Houses”

Staff

Honolulu Civil Beat

Best Reporting Using Social Media

First Place

Our Hawaiian Spring: Facebook Voting Game Aims To Boost Voter Turnout Patti Epler, Heidi Pliszka, Alice Terry Honolulu Civil Beat

Special Section

First Place

“Changing Communities”

Beverly Creamer, Dennis Hollier

Hawaii Business

Judge’s comments: “These stories do an excellent job taking readers inside two very different communities as they deal with changes brought on by new development. The good use of many viewpoints shows deep reporting.”

Finalists

“Celebrate Hula”

Tribune-Herald staff

Hawaii Tribune-Herald

“A Debt Paid”

Naomi Sodetani, Ricky Li, John Matsuzaki, Francine Murray, Lisa Asato

Ka Wai Ola                  

A118          Investigative Reporting

First Place

"Boss GMO; Monsanto Ed; Monsanto Protest; GMO Transparency; GMO ‘Candy’”

Tiffany Hervey, Joan Conrow, Debbie Millikan

Honolulu Weekly

Judge’s comments: "Outstanding investigation. An incredible amount of work done to chronicle the breadth of the GMO seed industry in Hawaii, its far reach, the influence and money behind the industry, the lack of regulation, and the dearth of testing regarding the safety of genetically-modified foods.

Finalists

“Cops, Prostitutes and Pimps – Series on Sex Trafficking in Honolulu"

Sara Lin

Honolulu Civil Beat

Judge’s comments: “Top-notch investigation. Terrific data story: The numbers are incredibly revealing. Well written. And backed by an editorial calling for change.”                            

"On the Trail of the University of Hawaii’s Missing $200,000"

Malia Zimmerman, Jim  Dooley

Hawaii Reporter         

Judge’s comments: Good old shoe-leather reporting. The story keeps getting better and better. And the university looks more and more stupid.

Best Independent Journalist (not supported by an organization)

No entries

Public Service Reporting

First Place

Innovative HOPE Probation Program Sharply Criticized

Jim  Dooley

Hawaii Reporter

Judge’s comments: "Collection of articles shows problems in a successful program, one that costs lives. No taking sides, just highlighting concerns. Great work."

Finalists

High Surf Higher Stakes

Donna Ching

Honolulu Weekly

Judge’s comments: "Clear language showing the need for supporting a public employee like lifeguards, and the increasing role they play in public safety. Very engaging, couldn't stop reading."      

Hawaii's Vanishing Voter – Special Report on Voter Participation

Ian Lind, Michael Levine, Patt Epler

Honolulu Civil Beat

THANK YOU TO THE HAWAII JUDGES OF THE INDIANA SPJ CHAPTER’S CONTEST

Brad Ballesteros

Jim Borg

Martha Cheng

Christina Chun

Linda Cicotello

Linda Dalrymple

Teresa Dawson

Linda Dela Cruz

Bill Dorman

Susan Essoyan

Dennis Hollier

Sean Ibara

Stephanie Kendrick

Nancy Cook Lauer

Anne Lee

George Lee

Kristin Lipman

Audrey McAvoy

Stirling Morita

Curtis Murayama

Steve Murray

Stirling Morita

Dennis Oda

Lennie Omalza

Mary Poole

Rob Perez

Steve Petranik

Brianne Randle

Charlene Robinson

Sam Spangler

Christine Strobel

Dave Swann

Jen Tadaki

David Thompson

Mary Vorsino

Christi Young

Lucy Young Oda

Stacy Yuen