Another toxic football coach story. Pretty much formulaic now.

Poignant photo of mother and child in need of help

It didn't take long for me to realize that this was all but guaranteed to be my pick for first place. Absolutely well done!

The political connection in this story is personal! What happens in and to the LGBTQ + community under the new federal administration? A couple decides to marry early should a federal mandate against same-gender marriages emerge. It has a political base affecting personal lives. Excellent reporting, writing.

This is one of the most bizarre murder cases I have ever heard of. (And this comes from an avid Dateline viewer). What a horrible case of a man displaying pure evil. Outstanding work in showcasing the specifics of this case!

Amazingly detailed report of a tragic incident. Writer pulls reader into grieving mother's world of what-ifs. Hour by hour narrative was an effective way to tell the story. Excellent work.