First place: Joe Alberico, Hannibal Courier Post

About this entry: Joe Alberico consistently produces engaging coverage of local athletes and is an expert at profiling his subjects.

Read online: Mark Twain RB leads the nation in rushing this season, and has linemen to thank, Hannibal High School girls basketball is starting to come together

The reporter shows an eye for finding a good story and a some nice writing style, such as the lead on the Tyler Elledge story. The feature on the teens who are baseball mascots captured their voices and enthusiasm.

Second place: David Wolcott, Old Colony Memorial

About this entry: David Wolcott’s incredible knowledge about his community shines in his stories and his ability to report on such a vast range of subjects is remarkable.

Read online: Big changes for Plymouth’s little sluggers, 31 seniors prepare to represent their high schools one last time on the gridiron

Follow David on Twitter @DavidWolcott1

Terrific variety of topics shows off how well the reporter knows his community. The youth baseball explanatory story was well-reported and fairly easy to follow, and undoubtedly helped a lot of parents navigate the various options now available to them.

Third place: Randy Dickson, formerly of Crestview News Bulletin

About this entry: “Sports editor Randy Dickson covers the issues the community cares about: like why there aren’t enough ball fields in a city of 23,000 residents; he touches our hearts with features on unsung heroes; and he provides commentary on topical, local sports news.” — Thomas Boni  

Strong community-based reporting that touched a variety of topics and illustrated the writer’s ability to change voices effectively. The writer made a strong case in the Houston McTear column and had me searching for any updates on a possible movie.