The Allentown Morning Call believes it is the first newspaper in the country to develop widgets that can be embedded in other Web sites to allow users to search the newspaper’s databases without first having to come to the paper’s Web site. Widgets allowed users to search databases of regional kennels and inspection reports, outdoor calendar activities and presidential poll results.

A detailed data investigation, produced on deadline in one day, of the of danger of the gaps between platform and cars of the Long Island Rail Road that have killed or seriously injured passengers. Data let users see safety records at each station, hear from victims, and watch video.

An in-depth, multi-part series about how to revamp Illinois’ public education system that grew into a multimedia, participatory online presentation. With focus on specific targets, the series used extensive database research and interactive opportunities for the public to become involved in the debate.

A U.S News reporter developed this site as a Kiplinger fellow; it’s dedicated to helping students and parents decode and understand the jargon and consequences of applying for and receiving college financial aid. Using database analysis and user interaction, the site demonstrates the journalist’s best use of technology.

The Herald-Tribune published a state database of teachers who have a record of abusing students. While fighting two years for the official records, reporters built their own database from 30,000 paper records. Resulting stories provided a view of a state system in disarray showing students at risk.