For a distinguished example of general or spot news reporting within a newspaper's local area of circulation, preferably by an individual, giving consideration to alertness, resourcefulness and high quality of writing, One thousand dollars ($1,000).
Louisville Courier-Journal , by Richard Whitt
For his coverage of a fire that took 164 lives at the Beverly Hills Supper Club at Southgate, Ky., and subsequent investigation of the lack of enforcement of state fire codes.
The Jury
The Jury
William J. Woestendiek(Chair)
Executive Editor, Arizona Daily Star
Robert C. Bergenheim
Publisher, Boston Herald American
Richard Dudman
Chief Washington Correspondent, St. Louis Post-Dispatch
Louis Martin
Columnist, Sengstacke Newspapers, Chicago
William N. Roesgen
Editor, Billings Gazette
Winners in Local General or Spot News Reporting
Margo Huston
For her reports on the elderly and the process of aging.
Gene Miller
For his persistent and courageous reporting over eight and one-half years that led to the exoneration and release of two men who had twice been tried for murder and wrongfully convicted and sentenced to death in Florida.
Staff
For its coverage, under enormous difficulties, of the tornado that wrecked the city on April 3, 1974.
Arthur M. Petacque and Hugh F. Hough
For uncovering new evidence that led to the reopening of efforts to solve the 1966 murder of Valerie Percy.
1978 Prize Winners
William Safire
For commentary on the Bert Lance affair.
Walter Kerr
For articles on the theater in 1977 and throughout his long career.