Fredericksburg Parent & Family won five awards at the 2021 PMA Design, Editorial & General Excellence Awards on November 15, 2021.
Judged by the University of Missouri School of Journalism, judges look for the best in local and regional parenting publications, special issues, websites and social media. This competition recognizes and rewards editorial, design and general excellence in local and regional parenting publications.
Fredericksburg Parent’s awards included:
Column: Publisher’s/Editor’s Note
Silver: Fredericksburg Parent & Family; “Editor’s Note”; Chris Jones, editor, Leigh Anne Van Doren, publisher
Children “bounce back from adversity like rubber balls,” the writer says. That lovely simile provides just a taste of the excellent writing that smoothly captures each issue’s theme. Simple lists also contribute to great flow and an almost lyrical cadence.
Ancillary Overall Writing
Gold: Fredericksburg Parent & Family; “Stories of Strength and Survival”; Chris Jones, Leigh Anne Van Doren, Emily Freehling, Megan Walsh, Brandy Centolanza
This excellent special issue singled out heroes in the community who stepped up to serve struggling families during the pandemic. The writing was clear, heartfelt and informative. Using personal experiences as well as supporting material, the writers told powerful stories by choosing words that gave credit exactly where it was deserved.
(Other issue contributors include Dianna Flett, Erin Fryer, Amy Taylor, Rhiannon Ellis)
Best Blog/Bloggers
Silver: Fredericksburg Parent & Family, “Ask Mom Blog”; Mary Follin, Kristi Crosson, Chris Jones, Leigh Anne Van Doren
This blog brings a team effort – with the benefit of different ideas, experiences, and viewpoints – to bear on topics and issues that parents face now and may face in the future. The writing is simple, genuine, and serious when necessary while friendly and witty when appropriate.
Best Use of Multimedia
Gold: Fredericksburg Parent & Family; “Teddy Bear Clinic for Covid Visits”; Maria Bell, Dr. Blair Ryland, Leigh Anne Van Doren, Megan Walsh, Chris Jones
Kids’ fears and concerns about COVID-19 melt away easily with this charming how-to produced to help children know what a visit to the doctor during the pandemic might look like. Dr. Ryland’s soft tone and simple language make this information very accessible and using a teddy bear as the “guinea pig” is a brilliant idea to soften what can be an uncertain experience for anyone, not just children.
Ancillary General Excellence
Silver: Fredericksburg Parent & Family; “Stories of Strength and Survival: A Tribute to Fredericksburg During Covid19”; Chris Jones, Leigh Anne Van Doren, Emily Freehling, Megan Walsh, Brandy Centolanza
This commemorative issue highlights positive stories about the pandemic and honors the people who stepped up to help. There is strong reporting on local helpers and a recognition of the community’s diversity. Visuals are used with each story, and colors are pulled from photographs to add details and interest to pages.
(Other issue contributors include Dianna Flett, Erin Fryer, Amy Taylor, Rhiannon Ellis)
