Originally found on RANGEfire!.

RANGE magazine was founded in Nevada and has been based in Carson City since its inception in the mid-1980s. With editor and publisher, CJ Hadley at the helm, RANGE invariably hauls in big wins in the Nevada Press Association’s annual “Better Newspaper” awards. Honoring the best in book publishing, investigative journalism, commentary, and Western photography, the 2023 awards do not disappoint.

1st Place Special Project

1st place RANGE for Face to Face with the American West (CJ Hadley, John Bardwell, Carolyn Dufurrena)

Judge’s comment: “Fantastic Book. Amazing photos that represent the various people and cultures that make up the American West. While the black and white photos give it a vintage feel, I would really like to see some color photos included as well.”

3rd place RANGE for 2023 Real Buckaroo Calendar (CJ Hadley, John Bardwell)

Judge’s comment: “Very well done. Great photography and layout.”

2023 Real Buckaroo Calendar cover by Todd Klassy

Profile (Magazine)

1st place Carolyn Dufurrena for “A Life Well-Lived” (Summer 2022, pages 40-42)

Judge’s comment: “Evocative and well-written, this story really pulls the reader in from the get-go.”

Photo by Carolyn Dufurrena

2nd place John L. Moore for “Filly Chaser” (Summer 2022, pages 84-86)

Judge’s comment: “A great blend of biography, history and personal reflection in this piece.”

Photo courtesy of John L. Moore

Feature Photo (Magazine)

1st Place Pierre G. Carricaburu for “Standoff in Wyoming” (Winter 2022/2023 page 73)

Judge’s comment: “Picture perfect timing to capture this highly emotionally time. Great photo! Would have loved to see how the racoon got away.”

Photo by Pierre G. Carricaburu

Multiple Photo Essay or Gallery

3rd Place Larry Turner for “Alder Creek Branding” (Summer 2022, pages 80-83)

Judge’s comment: “Thorough telling of life on the ranch through the use of photos with lots of faces and action.”

Photo by Larry Turner

Explanatory Journalism

1st Place Jim Chilton for “Hundreds of Trails, Thousands of Mules” (Winter 2022/2023, pages 82-84)

Judge’s comment: “Brilliantly illuminates an important and complex subject, showcasing the reporter’s understanding of the topic. The quality of reporting, clarity of writing, significance and local relevance make it a standout piece of journalism!”

Photo courtesy Chilton Family

2nd Place Dennis Golden, Rachel Dahl for “Out of Balance” (Fall 2022, pages 82-85)

Judge’s comment: “Captivates readers with its insightful reporting, shedding light on a significant and complex problem facing many western States. The clear writing style and local relevance contribute to its impact, making it a strong contender.”

Photo by Golden Productions

3rd Place Marjorie Haun for “Fake Meat” (Spring 2023, pages 68-69)

Judge’s Comment: “A valuable exploration of an important and novel subject that is gaining attention everywhere. Quality reporting and very informative. A thought-provoking piece.”

Photo via Internet