This one is bright and clever. It's effective which is exactly what you want in an Earth Day cover. This piece gets the reader's attention, then earns it.

The photos that really topped off for third place are the first two (woman with the microphone and the officer). Those are incredible-the emotion, the framing, everything about them. The other photos in this package are great captures too and really show the level of protesting that was going on.

Thanks for bringing me into Copa on its final night. Descriptive and succinct all rolled into one. Each of these pieces set a tone and establish a mood, bringing readers to the table. Great job.

The color and feel of a rage, or 'woodsie' in some parts of the country, is brilliantly captured by the masterful writing of this reporter. And it explains the frat's relationship with the school in a similarly colorful way. The writer has the style and choice of phrases that make it come to life. Kudos.