The Columbia Gorge Genealogical Society’s “Tales and Trails” quarterly newsletter was awarded the 2015 Outstanding Communication Award at the WSGS Conference in Ellensburg last month. The society received a certificate and will have possession of the perpetual Outstanding Communication Plaque for the next year.

Besides news, reports and announcements that pertain to their 38-member society, the newsletter features interesting and useful information about genealogical research and family history. It’s no easy task for Editor Jim Bull to constantly be on the lookout for quality material. He has been the Editor in Chief since 2010.

Formerly “paper copy only,”  the newsletter has now transitioned to an “on-line” edition that is available to society members, other genealogical societies, family history centers and libraries. Those without computer access still receive their copy in the mail. The change to electronic publication has resulted in a higher quality newsletter, which can be published at less expense.

The Outstanding Communication Award formerly focussed on local societies’ websites. In these fast-moving technological times, however, the award was expanded in 2015 to include all forms of communication, including websites, social media, newsletters, lectures, videos, podcasts, etc.

• General look and feel
• Readability and attractiveness
• Overall publication make-up
• Writing and editing quality
• Variety of information and originality
• Reflects local flavor of Society
• Contains information on local resources
• Current, frequent usage or viewership
• Of general genealogical interest to a broad audience

Announcements for the 2016 nominations will be posted on the Blog in Spring 2016. For more information about the Outstanding Communication Award, contact Roxanne Lowe, WSGS Recognition Chair.