The 818 Now

Each month, the editors of the Glendale News-Press, Burbank Leader and La Cañada Valley Sun sit in a darkened room and choose the best articles and photos of the previous month.

Though we usually are a bit more on the ball, better late than never, no?

Below are the winners for stories and articles that appeared either in print or online in October. Click here to see the September winners.

Online winners:

Website — Chris Cadelago:
“Sergeant shoots himself on residential street” (Oct. 29) – 10,362

The 818 Now — Michael Arvizu & Raul Roa:
“92nd Rose Queen Chosen – Flintridge Sacred Heart Academy Takes Crown” (Oct. 20) – 490

Best stories:

Best News Story:
“Layaway makes comeback” by Zain Shauk (Oct. 17)
Judges’ comments: This story is a perfect example of localizing a national story. The lede immediately draws readers in and keeps them hooked, making what might otherwise be a procedural story interesting.

Best Sports Story:
“Second String: A smile on the sidelines that didn’t fade” by Grant Gordon (Oct. 29)
Judges’ comments: This column shows a clear appreciation of its subject, providing readers a better understanding of Tom Fry and his impact on the community. It is a sad column, but straddles the line between purple and descriptive prose, and between pathos and maudlin.

Best Photo:
“Duck splash” by Raul Roa (Oct. 25)
Judges’ comments: This photo just makes people smile. Raul has taken a photo of annual event and turned it into something new – simply by changing the perspective. In addition, the lines, color and saturation are technically perfect.