Best All-Round Newspaper
Class 1016 - circ. 6500 to 12499

Judge's Comments

Best All-Round: Four newspapers rose to the top of the class of 30 - alas, there is only room for three.

The Whistler Question wins by virtue of its professionalism. This vibrant newspaper is bright and bold with a look that says: Read me! There is, however, one critical area upon which this newspaper and most others can improve. Good stories - and they can be hard-hitting, too - combined with strong look-at-me photographs will elevate the ordinary newspaper. Yes, this takes experience but a good way to learn is by grabbing the CCNA Mixed Bag Exchange and checking out the best community newspapers.

Several newspapers in this class could also use a redesign to the benefit of both readers and advertisers.

The Nunatsiaq News' clear layout and concise stories are the best in the category. More importantly, the stories and advertisements run in two languages - no small feat for any publication.

The Oak Bay News takes third for its bold broadsheet design with clever stories and headlines. The sense of humour helps, too, but more news stories, please.

Unfortunately, one had to be bumped from the top three and that was the Bridgewater Bulletin. This newspaper has a great space for news and coverage but the stories require more depth and better illustrations.

Best Front Page: The awesome ski shot on the front page of the March 27, 2003, Whistler Question, along with the artist's touch for colour, makes this a winner. The clever headline helps too.

Best Editorial Page: Strong writing that speaks to the "heart" of the community is what makes for a good editorial page. The October 29, 2003, Oak Bay News does just that in reflections on downtown palm trees and the desecration of a roadside memorial to a dead teenage girl.


Blue Ribbon Recipients:

Airdire (AB) Echo
Bridgewater (NS) Bulletin
Nunavik/Iqaluit (NU) Nunatsiaq News
Oak Bay (BC) News
Port Perry (ON) This Week
Whistler (BC) Question