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Matthew Rink from The Independent has been named News Writer of the Year for Division B in the 2009 Best of GateHouse contest.
About his entry
Reporter Matthew Rink, last year’s winner in this category, used investigative reporting abilities as well as narrative writing skills in his entry. In a story about a much-hyped biomass project planned for Stark County, Ohio, he deftly explained a project that went awry when an out-of-state company accepted a nearly $5 million bond to start the project, then disappeared after bouncing a check to a contractor. Rink unraveled the scheme using a variety of sources, and he described it to readers in a way that was easy for anyone to understand. Rink also investigated an incident in which a local school district unknowingly hired a service that employed a convicted felon to transport a troubled student. In a compelling feature about a World War II casualty, Rink told the story of Pvt. Donald D. Owens, a soldier whose remains have never been found. Through interviews with a French historian and Owens’ family, Rink helped settle the mystery of the soldier’s death and helped a family find closure.
Judges’ comments
Judges praised Rink for his compelling writing style and ability to detail complex issues for readers “using a variety of sources” and “clear and concise writing.” “Rink won out against three talented finalists for his exhaustive reporting abilities, writing craftsmanship and versatility.”
Finalists
Nate Birt Boonville (Mo.) Daily News
Eric Timmons The Register-Mail, Galesburg, Ill.
Erin Pustay The Independent, Massillon, Ohio
Matthew Rink from The Independent has been named News Writer of the Year for Division B in the 2009 Best of GateHouse contest.
About his entry
Reporter Matthew Rink, last year’s winner in this category, used investigative reporting abilities as well as narrative writing skills in his entry. In a story about a much-hyped biomass project planned for Stark County, Ohio, he deftly explained a project that went awry when an out-of-state company accepted a nearly $5 million bond to start the project, then disappeared after bouncing a check to a contractor. Rink unraveled the scheme using a variety of sources, and he described it to readers in a way that was easy for anyone to understand. Rink also investigated an incident in which a local school district unknowingly hired a service that employed a convicted felon to transport a troubled student. In a compelling feature about a World War II casualty, Rink told the story of Pvt. Donald D. Owens, a soldier whose remains have never been found. Through interviews with a French historian and Owens’ family, Rink helped settle the mystery of the soldier’s death and helped a family find closure.
Judges’ comments
Judges praised Rink for his compelling writing style and ability to detail complex issues for readers “using a variety of sources” and “clear and concise writing.” “Rink won out against three talented finalists for his exhaustive reporting abilities, writing craftsmanship and versatility.”
Finalists
Nate Birt Boonville (Mo.) Daily News
Eric Timmons The Register-Mail, Galesburg, Ill.
Erin Pustay The Independent, Massillon, Ohio
