WGME-TV, Portland, ME LOCAL STATION, SMALL MARKET

The judges call WGME's stories "well-told and beautifully executed," and applaud the strong work of this smaller market station. WGME focused its coverage on six referendum questions, including propositions to amend the state's Human Rights Act to include sexual orientation, a state forestry initiative and legalization of physician-assisted suicide. The week before the election, the station devoted its entire 5:30 p.m. newscast to these issues, using both in-depth packages and in studio debates. The judges praise the issue packages for their clear explanation of the issues, without assuming certain knowledge from the viewer. They also praise the structure of the broadcasts--the integration of packages with in-studio debates and the inclusion of viewer e-mail questions. Watch a clip of the winning footage.