First place: Linda Murphy, The Herald News

Oh, how I loved all of these features. What sets them apart are attention to detail. Who would have thought to describe the veteran before he went off to war decades ago? Nice touch.

Second place: Diane Turbyfill, The Gaston Gazette

Follow Diane on Twitter @GazetteDiane

Interesting topics in the hands of a fine writer. I loved every one of them, but I was partial to Sassy the Dog.

Third place: Marc Larocque, Taunton Daily Gazette

Follow Marc on Twitter @Enterprise_Marc

Solid, engaging features across the board.