Once again, The Register placed first in national newspapers in the general excellence category. Judge Richard Osicki, a professor of journalism in Winnipeg, described The Register:

“Fine journalistic writing. Eloquent editorials. Stunning front pages. Clear attempt to reach younger audiences. A variety of news. High quality of design and typography. Strong graphics. Not Toronto-centric. Powerful section on AIDS. Overall, a thoroughly professional publication.”

More than 60 Christian magazines and newspapers from across Canada took part in the annual competition. Catholic publications received 29 awards.

The convention was co-sponsored by the Association of Roman Catholic Communicators of Canada, which was holding its 25th anniversary. The association gave its annual ARCCC award to Fr. Tom Rosica, CSB, and Salt+Light TV.

The Register also took first place in layout and design of a newspaper edition, by Managing Editor Mickey Conlon and Art Director Paul McLellan. Associate Editor Michael Swan won a first for his photo essay on an inner-city bakery run by St. John the Compassionate Mission, and Publisher and Editor Joseph Sinasac won first for media reviews.

McLellan also won a second place for original artwork in newspapers. Third-place finishes went to Youth Editor Sara Loftson, for a newspaper biographical profile of a young Opus Dei member; McLellan for newspaper front page; and Swan for news story in a newspaper.

The Register also received an honourable mention for its Special Report on AIDS in the coveted A.C. Forrest award for social justice journalism. The United Church Observer won the award. Sinasac also received an honourable mention for editorial writing.