Nola Family Wins Big At Parenting Media Conference
March 9, 2020
Winners of the 2019 Parenting Media Association’s Design and Editorial Awards were announced on February 29 at its annual conference in St. Pete Beach, Florida. Nola Family Magazine came home with six awards, including the Gold Award for our profile on Steve Gleason, Silver for Overall Design, and Bronze for photography.
The awards highlight the best writing and design of regional parenting publications from across the U.S. and Canada, and are independently judged by faculty members of the University of Missouri School of Journalism.
“This year’s winning entries once again showcase the PMA publications’ strength in offering practical and frank advice on tough subjects, as well as extensive suggestions for off-the-radar activities that expand children’s horizons.” said Reuben Stern, who oversees the judging at the Missouri School of Journalism. “Amid a sea of questionable material online, these articles are packed with reliable information from experts and primary sources. The stories also validate and inspire parents by giving a window into the lives of others dealing with similar challenges.”
Editorial judges evaluate entries for accurate and comprehensive reporting, superior writing, and thoughtful analysis of the issues relevant to audience and evidence of editorial judgment, insight, and enterprise. The design competition recognizes excellence in the visual presentation of editorial matter and advertisements. Judges look for originality and intelligent use of resources in publication design.
Nola Family’s publisher, Ann Herren, and managing editor, Tim Meyer, thank the publication’s staff, photographer, designer, and writers who make the magazine a worthy resource for all families in the Greater New Orleans area.
AWARDS
Category: Profile
Gold: “Raising Gleason;” Tim Meyer, writer/editor
From the judges: “A heart-wrenching profile written as a Q&A with Steve Gleason, the former New Orleans Saints player who now contends with ALS. The player, now in an advanced stage of the disease, reflects on his career and his work with charities. This no-holds-barred interview gets into the tough parenting decisions of a man who is preparing his two children for life after he’s gone.”
Category: Column: Family Matters
Silver: “Parenting Corner;” Camille Quinn, columnist
From the judges: “The lede sets the tone: ‘…how a parent responds is more important than having the answer.’ The author has solid academic credentials and speaks with authority. In addition, she gives lots of practical tips, and she points out that tough conversations are also the place to share family values. The column is comprehensive and very helpful. A must read.”
Category: Overall Design
Silver: Ann Herren, Tim Meyer, and Cat Landrum (2nd Story Creative)
From the judges: “Cover stories get special display packages that draw extra attention to them. Stories that should be told in chunks, such as ‘5 Things I’m Loving Right Now,’ are told with copy blocks and photos. Words and visuals work together on the cover.”
Category: Column: Child Development & Parenting Issues
Bronze: “Learning Years;” Dr. Pat Blackwell
From the judges: “Dr. Blackwell delivers impressive, carefully worded explanations of relevant topics, such as a particularly well-written and researched piece on gender identity. The column about negative thinking understands that solutions are as important as a description of the problem. It is a nice balance between empathy and expertise.”
Category: General Feature Writing
Bronze: “Creating Families: Adoption in Louisiana;” Sarah Herndon, reporter
From the judges: “A solid step-by-step look at how to adopt a child in Louisiana. The feature is packed with human examples and expertise. The story is authoritative, answering everything from who can be a parent to where to start the process. It’s well-reported and easy to grasp.”
Category: Front Cover: Original Photo
Bronze: “Eco-Anxiety;” Jennifer Zdon (Twirl Photography), Ann Herren
From the judges: “This cover presents an excellent story idea that shows the magazine is thinking creatively about story topics. Framing the environmental issue using anxiety and burden is an outstanding idea. There’s a beautiful relationship between child and earth that puts both human and earth elements into a delicate balance. The pose, a relaxed fetal position, only increases the idea of protecting our future.”
To read the full list of the judges comments on the 2020 PMA Design, Editorial, & General Excellence award winners, click HERE.