By Michael J. Johnson New Orleans, LA

A jury comprised of members of the secular media and journalism schools in North America noted with distinction three editorials written by Southern Cross editor Father Douglas K. Clark. Announced on June 4, at the annual Catholic Press Association’s Catholic Media Convention in New Orleans, the first, second and third place awards acknowledged excellence in editorial writing for publications with a distribution of less than 17,000. First place: Best Editorial on a Local Issue, A Denial of Justice, on the case of Troy Anthony Davis (page 3, September 3, 2009). The judges commented that “the supporting conclusion is sure to inspire readers to re-examine their own belief in forgiveness and redemption.” Second place: Best Editorial on a National or International Issue, Cooperation in Good is Necessary (page 3, June 18, 2009). The judges commented, “The author takes what must be a very difficult premise for devout Catholics . . . and makes the case in a compelling way using common sense logic over unfettered ideology.” Third Place: Best Editorial on a National or International Issue, A Much-needed Stiffening of the Spine (page 3, December 3, 2009), on the “Manhattan Declaration: A Call of Christian Conscience.” Among the judges’ comments was this statement: “Very convincing, with some stellar use of the debater’s lexicon and style.”

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