FORTHRIGHTNESS (50pts)
Establishes the publication in the minds of readers as the advocacy voice for electric cooperative consumers. Demonstrates courage in communicating the objectives of the electric cooperative network to consumers in support of the objectives of the electric cooperative network. Presents national, state, and regional electric cooperative issues in a way that relates them to the interests of the electric consumer and builds consumer loyalty to electric cooperatives.
CLARITY (25pts)
Publications contain lucid writing, quality pictures and graphics, and professional design and layout. Writing and design makes issues of importance to electric cooperatives understandable and interesting to consumers. Publications attract and build readership. Adheres to professional journalistic standards.
BALANCE (25pts)
Publications strike a reasonable balance in presentation of co-op and non-co-op issues. Covers important legislative matters and promotes proper use of electricity. Promotes electric cooperative contributions to the quality of life of their communities.
JUDGING PROCESS
STATEWIDE PUBLICATIONS ENTER THE HAGGARD AWARD COMPETITION IN DECEMBER BY SUBMITTING ALL EDITIONS OF THE PUBLICATION ISSUED DURING THAT CALENDAR YEAR.
PRELIMINARY JUDGING IS COMPLETED BY INDEPENDENT JOURNALISTS USING THE POINT SYSTEM OUTLINED ABOVE. THE TOP THREE SCORES MOVE TO THE FINAL ROUND OF JUDGING.
FINAL SELECTION MADE BY STATEWIDE MANAGERS NAMED BY THE RESMA PRESIDENT.
The winner of the Haggard Award will be based on how well, in the judgement of statewide managers, a publication has educated electric cooperative members as to why they should care about and be loyal to electric cooperatives.
THE HAGGARD AWARD CARRIES A $2,500 HONORARIA: $1,000 FOR THE EDITOR OF THE WINNING PUBLICATION AND $1,500 FOR THE STATEWIDE ASSOCIATION.