A debt of gratitude
by David Denor
Posted 8/26/2019
In previous columns, I have praised our talented, focused, hardworking team at Florida Trend. I feel that it is important that they all know how much their dedication to producing an exceptional editorial product is appreciated not only by me, but also by our 250,000-plus monthly readers. It is especially rewarding when the staff is recognized, honored and acknowledged by industry leaders/experts. On that note, I am particularly proud to share with you some recent recognition that Florida Trend has received.
The Alliance of Area Business Publishers (AABP) recently presented its editorial excellence awards. Twenty-four faculty members from the University of Missouri School of Journalism judged stories and layout designs. The competition was impressive and diverse — with publications from the U.S., Canada and Australia participating. FLORIDA TREND won in five categories:
Best Feature Layout: Florida’s Water Future, Art Director Gary Bernloehr and Associate Art Director Jason Morton
Best Personality Profile: Philosopher President, Associate Editor Jason Garcia
Best Recurring Feature: Icon, Associate Editor Art Levy
Best Explanatory Journalism: 919 New Floridians Every Day, South Florida Editor Mike Vogel
Best Magazine: Recognizing the entire Florida Trend editorial staff. Of particular interest was the note from the judges: “From big stories that provide coverage for one of the nation’s most dynamic states to little stories that focus tightly and locally, Florida Trend gives its readers remarkable complexity and depth. Charts, graphs and maps, along with savvy use of photographs, tell the stories about demographics, health care, transportation or political issues intertwined with business. OffBeat, quirky business stories spice up the magazine’s consistently comprehensive coverage.”
In addition to the national recognition, we were recently honored by the Florida Magazine Association and the Society of Professional Journalists. Florida Trend won across multiple categories.
Florida Magazine Association’s Charlie Awards:
Best Overall Writing
Best Advertisement Design
Best Cover Design
Best Magazine Website
Society of Professional Journalists’ Sunshine State Awards:
Best Commentary & Criticism: Editor’s Page, Executive Editor Mark Howard
Best Feature Story: International Smackdown, Jason Garcia
As business leaders, we rely heavily on the individuals we surround ourselves with, trusting their skills and judgment. I often say we would never be able to accomplish all we do if it were not for the talent of all our employees.
Recognition by others outside of our companies allows us, as business leaders, to shine the spotlight on those who rightfully deserve the recognition.
I encourage you as CEOs, directors and managers to make a point of taking notice, recognizing and complimenting those on your team who continually go above and beyond what is asked of them. A small debt of gratitude can have an amazing impact on morale, loyalty and workplace enjoyment.
— David Denor, Publisher
[ddenor@floridatrend.com]
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