SPJ is now taking applications for the Rookie of the Year Bob Chandler award. The qualifications are simple: nominees must have been employed as full-time journalists for the first time in 2009. Editors should submit a CV, cover letter, and work sample to lbonczijk@newberggraphic.com

The First Freedom Award is given to a lay person who has pushed back against government for public records in 2009. A short letter describing the candidate’s efforts as well as any articles that resulted from it should be submitted to lbonczijk@newberggraphic.com

The deadline for both contests is 5 p.m. March 31, 2010.