For a distinguished example of meritorious public service by a newspaper through the use of its journalistic resources which may include editorials, cartoons, and photographs, as well as reporting, a gold medal.
The Charlotte Observer , by The Charlotte Observer
For revealing misuse of funds by the PTL television ministry through persistent coverage conducted in the face of a massive campaign by PTL to discredit the newspaper.
Finalists
Nominated as finalists in Public Service in 1988:
Staff
For its compelling investigation of the state's unusually high infant-mortality rate, which prompted legislation to combat the problem. (Moved by the Board to the General News Reporting category.)
Staff
For reporting that described vote-buying and influence peddling in Kentucky elections and resulted in calls for new state and federal legislation.
Winners in Public Service
The Pittsburgh Press
For reporting by Andrew Schneider and Matthew Brelis, which revealed the inadequacy of the FAA's medical screening of airline pilots and led to significant reforms.
The Denver Post
For its in-depth study of "missing children," which revealed that most are involved in custody disputes or are runaways, and which helped mitigate national fears stirred by exaggerated statistics.
Fort Worth (TX) Star-Telegram
For reporting by Mark J. Thompson which revealed that nearly 250 U.S. servicemen had lost their lives as a result of a design problem in helicopters built by Bell Helicopter -a revelation which ultimately led the Army to ground almost 600 Huey helicopters pending their modification.
Los Angeles Times
For an in-depth examination of southern California's growing Latino community by a team of editors and reporters.
1988 Prize Winners
Dave Barry
For his consistently effective use of humor as a device for presenting fresh insights into serious concerns.
Tom Shales
For his television criticism.