Denver Urban Spectrum (DUS) staff and writers earned 15 awards in the Colorado Better News Media Contest for work published in 2020. DUS competed in Circulation Class 5, earning the top sweepstakes awards in the category for Advertising Excellence, Editorial Excellence, and General Excellence. Contest results were announced by the Colorado Press Association on May 20.
DUS staff won first and second place for Best Print Ad. The first place award was for an ad titled “What if Democracy Fails,” and the second place award was for “Remembering and Honoring 1619-2019.”
Late DUS contributor Charles Emmons won first place for Best Editorial Writing for his story, “In Memory of Freddy Rodriquez.” The judges commented, “Clear and persuasive essay on the importance of leadership in today’s world and for tomorrow.”
Emmons widow, Jackie Emmons, responded to her husband’s posthumous win, “Thank you for submitting Chares’ article. He would have been excited to be blessed with another award. Congratulations to DUS, all nominees, and award recipients. I wish you continued success in all your endeavors.”
DUS contributor Alfonzo Porter won second place for Best Editorial Writing for his story, “New Direction for Seasoned Executive.” The judges commented, “Interesting and important editorials that appeal to readers needs and aspirations.”
Porter also won first place for Best Education Story for “School Choice Debate Misses the Point.” The judges commented, “Your passion for education comes through in your writing.”
DUS staff won first place for Best Use of Digital Advertising for the Weekly Advertising Guide (WAG) emails. The judges commented, “Nice. I liked it very much.”
DUS Publisher Rosalind “Bee” Harris won first place for Best Page Design for the article, “There’s No Place Like Home.” DUS staff won second place for Best Cover Design for the June 2020 Issue, “COVID-19 Coronavirus, Celebrating Black Music Month.” The judges commented, “This is a great idea for a cover!”
DUS contributor (Ruby Jones won first place for Best Feature Story for her story, “Chocolate Yoga.” The judges commented, “A great story, well written, factual…a memorable story with stunning photos.”
DUS contributor Daryn Fouther won second place for Best News Story for “Cleo Parker Robinson, Raising the Beat for 50 Years.” The judges commented, “This was a well-written and engaging account of an outstanding woman’s life. I especially enjoyed the lede and the way the story was organized.”
DUS contributors Lauren Turner and Angelia McGowan won second place for Best Editorial Special Section for “Colorful Stories.” The judges commented, “Keep up the great work!”
DUS contributors Thomas Holt Russell and Tanya Ishikawa won second place for Best Business News/Feature Story for “A Safer Return to Work and School.” The judges commented, “Qualified insight into pandemic.”
