47th Annual
MID-AMERICA REGIONAL
EMMY® AWARDS
Presented by Branson and Silver Dollar City
2023
ELIGIBILITY PERIOD
April 1, 2022 — March 31, 2023
ENTRY PERIOD
March 1, 2023 — May 5, 2023
Regional EMMY® NOMINATIONS
August 10, 2023
Regional EMMY® AWARDS
Ceremony
September 30, 2023
Branson Convention Center, Branson, MO
THE NATIONAL ACADEMY OF TELEVISION ARTS & SCIENCES
The National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences Awards Committee determines policy for all NATAS awards competitions. The Call for Entries Awards manual reflects our ever-changing industry and is forward looking with terms, rules and categories. All regional chapters adhere to the same standard contest rules as outlined in our Call for Entries; and, while each chapter may select different categories based on what they feel is most appropriate for their region, the category titles and definitions are the same across chapters.
ELIGIBILITY AREA
All broadcast, cable, broadband, cable / community / government access and video content providers (not close circuit or venue specific) located within the following Designated Market Areas (DMAs):
- St. Louis
- Kansas City
- Little Rock
- Springfield (MO)
- St. Joseph
- Columbia/Jefferson City
- Joplin/Pittsburg
- Quincy/Hannibal/Keokuk
- Ottumwa/Kirksville
- Davenport/Rock Island/Moline
- Paducah/Cape Girardeau/Harrisburg
- Champaign/Springfield/Decatur
- Fort Smith/Fayetteville/Springdale/Rogers
- Jonesboro
- Monroe-Eldorado and Shreveport (LA)
ABOUT CATEGORIES
Added
#208 — Live Sporting Event Game
#312 — Entertainment – Short Form (for performances)
#326 — Government/Politics Long Form
GONE THIS YEAR
Live News Producer
DID YOU KNOW?
#106. Weekend Newscast - All Markets
This is for day and evening weekend newscasts.
CATEGORY VIABILITY RULE
If the Mid-America Emmy® Awards Committee deems a category non-viable due to insufficient number of entries, the category may be canceled or merged with another similar category. If a category is merged, submitters will be notified and given a choice of withdrawing the entry and having the fee refunded, or, leaving the entry to be judged in the merged category.
We encourage you to thoroughly read through the rules and category descriptions this year. Don’t risk having your entry disqualified because you didn’t read the rules.
ENTRIES
CHANGES TO ENTRIES
DURING THE ENTRY PROCESS
During the entry process the only thing you can’t do is change a category or delete an entry.
The Emmy® office will do this for you.
Just ask.
AFTER THE ENTRY PROCESS
You are responsible for the correct information on the entry form; changes/corrections/additions after the entry deadline and before Nominations are announced will result in a $25 fee.
Proof your “Confirmation of Entry” email details for accuracy and inclusion before the deadline. And please, turn off ALL CAPS before typing.
DO NOT USE ALL CAPS ON YOUR ENTRY!
PREPARING YOUR ENTRY
EMMY® EXPRESS
Entries must be submitted and videos must be uploaded through EMMY® EXPRESS.
MAKE TITLES SHORT
Entry titles should be five words or less. Title + Maximum length = Five Words or less. Why? Because it looks and fits better on the statuette that you hope to take home.
SECOND OF BLACK RULE
- One (1) second of black must be inserted between elements of a composite.
- One (1) second of black must be inserted between elements of a series entry or between excerpts if the original video has been edited to fit the entry time limit for the category.
REMINDER OF TERMS
- News Single Shift is for stories shot, edited and aired in a single shift – a day turn.
- News No Time Limit refers to the time spent producing the story not the length of the story itself. These categories are for stories you worked on over multiple days.
- Short Form Content is non-news material that runs up to ten minutes in length – material that used to be entered in the Program Feature or Segment categories or short stand-alone content.
- Long Form Content is non-news material longer than ten minutes, including traditional 30 and 60-minute programs.
- News Content is journalistic material from news departments at TV stations, newspapers, and online news reporting organizations. (While News Content is generally not permitted in the Short and Long Form Content categories, shows and specials produced by news organizations should be entered in an appropriate Long Form Content category.)
JUDGING
Judging agreement: submission of an entry constitutes an agreement that each entrant listed on the entry will serve as a peer judge on at least two panels in the next 12 months (calendar year 2023).
There will be judging opportunities from other NATAS chapters from March-October 2023. Entrants will be notified via email blasts when judging is available. To sign up, login to your EMMY® EXPRESS dashboard to see available panels. Select a panel and request to be added to the panel.
FEES
MEMBERSHIP FEES
ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP FEES
Fee: $75
Membership must be current to receive the entry fee discount.
MEMBERSHIP
MEMBERSHIP IS IN THE NAME OF THE INDIVIDUAL, NOT THE CORPORATION OR BUSINESS.
The membership process is completely integrated with your entries.
Complete the member application only once and BEFORE you enter. You will be able to manage/update your membership information very easily by following the prompts in the Member Dashboard.
Membership fees are paid through Paypal.
Become/Renew membership BEFORE entering and paying for entries.
NOTE: There are no refunds for entry overpayments.
NOTE TO JUDGES: Individuals who judged 2+ times during the eligibility period 1/1/2022-12/31/2022 will automatically receive a $10 discount from each of his/her entry fees.
ENTRY FEES
ACTIVE MEMBER ENTRY FEE
$95 for first entrant name
$75 for additional names listed, per entry
NON-MEMBER ENTRY FEE
$225 for first entrant name
$200 for additional names listed, per entry
CHANGES TO WORDING ON AN ENTRY AFTER DEADLINE $25
Entrants may make changes to their entries (such as title changes, spelling corrections, description changes) up to the final May 5 deadline.
After May 5th the office must make the changes; these are the fees: $25 per entry.
ENTRY PAYMENTS
Entry Payments can be made via PayPal or check.
MAKE CHECKS PAYABLE TO “NATAS Mid-America” and MAIL TO:
NATAS Mid-America
3655 Olive St
St. Louis, MO 63108
All Payments are due MAY 15, 2023.
PLEASE REMEMBER:
Member and Entry fees must be paid separately
ADDITIONAL CHARGES AND EXTENUATING CIRCUMSTANCES
If extenuating circumstances result in a qualified name being left off an entry, the name may be added to entry after Nominations are announced provided these criteria are met: a letter detailing the circumstances must be emailed to the office not later than five days after nominations are announced. If approved, the entry fee is $500 per name.
REMEMBER
To be eligible ALL entries must be submitted through EMMY® EXPRESS and all videos must be uploaded.
QUESTIONS?
The Mid-America cell phone number is: 314-533-2993
Please call with any questions or email: maggie@emmymid-america.org
PREFERRED FILE FORMAT
- MP4 USING H.264 VIDEO CODEC AND AAC AUDIO CODEC
- For best quality, encode your video at its original size
- Sizes 1920×1080 or 1280×720 are recommended
- Your video should be at least 720p
- Entrants are responsible for the technical quality of their videos
SUPPORTED FILE FORMATS
The system supports nearly any format other than DRM-encrypted media. For more detailed information regarding acceptable video formats, encoding and other settings, visit:
JW Player upload guidelines .
UNSUPPORTED FILE FORMATS
- Quicktime (MOV) files that use the Apple Intermediate Codec (used in Final Cut Pro)
- DRM protected files from Microsoft (WMV) or the iTunes Store (M4V, MOV)
- WMV videos using the MSS2 video codec (for screencasting)
2023 CALL FOR ENTRIES
EMMY® Categories
MID-AMERICA SCHEDULE
Eligibility Period
April 1, 2022 – March 31, 2023
ENTRY DEADLINE
May 5, 2023
ENTRY VIDEO UPLOAD DEADLINE
May 5, 2023
scholarshipS
CAREER GRANT for PROFESSIONALS
Continuing Education Opportunity Grant C.E.O.G
Applications Deadline
April 30, 2023
Awards Store
Contact US
If you have any questions, contact us at:
314-533-2993 / maggie@emmymid-america.org
Mid-America Regional EMMY® Awards
Contest Rules
To recognize outstanding achievements in television and allied media by conferring annual awards of merit in the Chapter’s designated award region which includes the television markets primarily in Missouri, Arkansas and Illinois and surrounding DMAs:
- St. Louis
- Kansas City
- Little Rock
- Springfield (MO)
- St. Joseph
- Columbia/Jefferson City
- Joplin/Pittsburg
- Quincy/Hannibal/Keokuk
- Ottumwa/Kirksville
- Davenport/Rock Island/Moline
- Paducah/Cape Girardeau/Harrisburg
- Champaign/Springfield/Decatur
- Fort Smith/Fayetteville/Springdale/Rogers
- Jonesboro
- Monroe-Eldorado and Shreveport (LA)
The presentation of these awards is intended to be an incentive for the continued pursuit of excellence for those working in the television and digital media industry and to focus public attention on outstanding cultural, educational, technological, entertainment, news, informational programming and craft achievements in television and online.
Membership in The National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences is not required to enter the Emmy® Awards. Entrants must have each performed a significant and hands-on role in the production. Eligibility is determined by role rather than an individual’s job title. Managers, News Directors, clients and supervisory personnel are typically not considered eligible but may petition to be included if they actively participated and their work significantly contributed to the creative process of the video content being submitted.
Entrants, producers, management or designated representatives may submit an entry on behalf of another individual. In that case, the submitter is responsible for confirming the entrant’s knowledge of and adherence to all eligibility rules and that they have given their consent to the content submitted. Also, submitters are strongly encouraged to reach out to all key contributors on the entry, to make them aware that their work is being submitted and to allow them the opportunity to add their name.
Students are not considered peer professionals and as such, their regional student productions are not eligible for Emmy® award recognition. If material is produced as part of a class for which school credit is received, the material is considered to be the work of a student. If a student works on a project submitted for Emmy® consideration by a professional, and is included on the entry for that project, they cannot enter as a student, but instead must pay the appropriate professional entry fees. Student award recipients or their institutions from any NATAS Chapter’s high school or college competitions may not use the Emmy® name or replica of the Emmy® figure in any form of commercial advertising or promotion for their recognition.
To be eligible, original entries must have been transmitted to the general public by a television station, a cable company, satellite, the Internet or other digital delivery medium. Eligibility is limited to digital and telecast/cablecast programming that was originally produced and intended for the Chapter’s regional or local audience during the Chapter’s eligibility year.
Broadcast and cablecast entries must have been produced and intended for a regional or local audience, within the Chapter’s designated awards area, and must have had their first transmission in that awards area during the eligibility period. Entries produced and intended for a wider audience (a national audience) should be submitted for consideration in NATAS’ national awards.
Video content distributed via the Internet must have been produced and intended for a regional or local audience within the Chapter’s designated awards area. Internet content intended for a wider audience (a national audience) should be submitted for consideration in NATAS’ national awards.
Additional eligibility clarification notes:
- Local station news coverage that may receive national exposure should be submitted to regional Emmy® Award competitions.
- A documentary film that has a limited theatrical release at film festivals (showing on 50 or fewer screens in the U.S. over a one-year period) before telecast or being made available online is eligible provided the program content is produced and intended for the regional or local audience. Documentary films with a theatrical debut more than one year prior to their television or streaming debut will not be eligible.
- Local content that later receives national distribution may be submitted to either a regional or a national awards competition, but not both.
- Local segments that are eligible to participate as entries in National Emmy® Award competitions (i.e. News & Doc) may compete in both regional and national awards competitions under prevailing rules.
In determining whether content distributed online, without geographic restriction, is more
appropriate for submission to a regional competition or a national one, entrants should
consider the following:
- Subject matter must be regionally or locally focused rather than national or global in scope.
- If the content or program has been submitted into any of the NATAS national competitions in a previous or current awards cycle, it may no longer be submitted regionally.
- Company/individual has entered other similar content into NATAS national competitions.
- If the program or content has been promoted to/marketed to a national audience or produced in association with a national media brand, it may not be entered regionally.
- All promotional and craft-category submissions associated with the content must be submitted to the same competition.
Regional content that later receives national distribution may be submitted to either a Regional Awards competition or a relevant National Awards competition, subject to the following restrictions:
- Content may only be submitted to a single competition. A program submitted to a regional competition may not then be submitted to a national competition or another regional competition.
- All craft-category submissions associated with the content must be submitted to the same regional or national competition.
- Eligibility for a regional competition is determined by the date the production was first telecast or made available online or via VOD in a region.
- Eligibility for a national competition is determined by the date the production was first telecast or made available online or via VOD nationally.
At least two-thirds of an entry must consist of original material, unless previously produced material has been given some unique and creative treatment that, in the opinion of the Chapter Awards Committee, results in new, original content.
Materials provided by a news service, cooperative news association or similar source must be treated as previously produced material, unless originally intended for first release in the Chapter’s regional awards eligibility area to which it was submitted with on-site supervision by the entrant.
The interpretation of the Chapter Awards Committee is final and absolute. Entries must be submitted as originally shown. There may not be any post-distribution changes except as noted in the category descriptions.
The following programming is not eligible:
- Pornographic, violent, defamatory or offensive content.
- Previously distributed programs, series or related craft content which was distributed and met eligibility requirements during a previous awards year or another Emmy® competition.
- Program length commercials or infomercials.
- Closed circuit content or internal communications.
- No content produced or created for a regional or national Emmy® awards show may be submitted to an Emmy® awards contest. Related craft material is also ineligible.
- Motion picture content that premiered in general release to the public in theaters.
- Compilation reels, “clip shows” or “best of…” programs that were edited from original content.
- Any acquired foreign productions not originated in the United States.
In order to sustain a high level of award excellence, Chapters must continue to self-regulate their entries, making sure only the appropriate individuals are recognized. To maintain this consistency, there is a maximum quota of 10 eligible names allowed on each entry. Any name(s) added beyond this number will require written authorization from the primary responsible entrant detailing the additional job title and responsibility. Chapters would then have the option of accepting these additional entrants or not.
In the event that the number of entries in a category falls below a range of four (4) to nine (9), Chapters have the option of eliminating or merging the category with another. If a category is merged, entrants would have the option of dropping out of the competition and receiving a refund of their entry fees.
Categories for which entrants do not readily volunteer to judge may be eliminated in the following eligibility year.
An excerpt is defined as a continuous segment or section from longer content.
Unless noted in the category description, no more than three (3) excerpts may be used to bring longer content to the category’s specified entry time limit.
For entries representing a program series, content must be included from multiple episodes of the series. A maximum of three (3) representative excerpts is permitted. One to two seconds of black, with no audio or slates, must be added to separate excerpts.
If the awards committee determines the content of any excerpt is ineligible, the entire entry will be ruled ineligible.
Removal of a commercial break between segments does not constitute a separate excerpt.
A composite is defined as a sampling of a minimum of two (2) and no more than five (5) representative segments or examples of work that convey to a judging panel the scope, breadth, or range of an individual’s talents within the specified craft category.
The elements within a composite, unless otherwise noted in the category description, are to be “as aired” with no post-distribution changes, such as additional edits, music or special effects. Composites may include stories or segments in their entirety and/or excerpts from longer content.
One to two seconds of black between cuts, with no audio or slates, must be added to separate segments within the composite.
DEMO REELS OR MONTAGES ARE NOT ALLOWED.
When an entry’s content allows for a choice of category placement, the producer has the discretion to enter the material in the most appropriate content category in addition to any craft achievement categories where it is eligible.
However, certain rules must also be considered and followed:
- No entry may be submitted to more than one Emmy® awards competition (Regional or National).
*Exception: Regional Emmy® recipients in the Breaking News and Investigative Report categories are eligible for submission to the National News & Documentary competition under prevailing rules. - Different episodes from the same program or series can only be entered in one Emmy® Awards competition
- Entrants are not allowed to separate content from individual craft achievement and submit in multiple Emmy® Awards competitions.
- If the Chapter deems content ineligible, craft submissions related to that content would also be ineligible.
- The first distribution of the entry is the primary determination of eligibility.
The Chapter reserves the right to disqualify outright or move any entry to a different category if in its judgment such action is warranted. Entries will not be accepted if no applicable category is found.
No entry may be submitted in its entirety in more than one content category. No entrant may be recognized more than once for performing the same job function for the same content.
Exceptions are given for content that was part of a full newscast, or included as an excerpt in the Overall Excellence, News Excellence and Community Service categories. To be eligible for this exception in the newscast categories, the same entrant cannot be listed on the newscast entry and another entry.
Example:
An investigative reporter is listed on a newscast entry. Under this double-dipping rule, a portion of the newscast content could be entered in Investigative Report, but the same reporter cannot be listed as a reporter since their name already appeared on the newscast entry in that specified role.
If you enter a full program or episode from a series in a content category, you cannot also enter a segment from the same program or series in another content category.
Content produced as both a multi-part series and a full-length program may be entered only once, regardless of the amount of new material added.
Example:
An investigative team does a three-part series within a newscast on gun control. Once the three parts have aired, and the same material re-purposed as a news or program special, the team would need to decide if they should enter the original series or the special, not both.
For Branded Franchise series, you may choose to submit up to five (5) representative segments from the series as a single entry in the appropriate category. If you enter the Branded Franchise as a series, you cannot also enter a segment from the same Franchise in another content category. However, if you do not submit the franchise as a series entry, you may submit individual segments in the appropriate categories.
Example:
Your franchise is “This Week’s Health Advice.” The specific subject matter varies from week to week with topics such as Heart Health Awareness, Mary’s Battle with Lupus, Dietary Tips, The Best Yoga Studios in Springfield. You may submit each segment separately as individual entries based on the subject matter. Alternatively, you may submit all 5 segments in the Health category as a single entry representing the franchise. However, if you submit the franchise as a series entry, you may not submit any individual segments from the franchise elsewhere.
A single or multi episode full-length program, or a multi-part news series, all on the same subject, may only be entered in one content category. If the subject matter varies, different episodes from the same overall program series can be entered in other program categories as appropriate based on content. This exception does not apply to individual stories from a news series.
Examples:
• Your entry is a four-part series, Saving the Bay. Part one of the series is entered in the Informational/Instructional category. Part three cannot be entered in the Environment category.
• Your program is called Community Weekly, an on-going weekly series. Though it is basically a Public Affairs series, episode 204 may be about music, episode 216 about sports, while other episodes are more generic. Under our rules, episode 204 could be entered in an Entertainment category, while episode 216 could be entered in Sports. Other episodes from the series could be entered in Public Affairs.
In situations where craft persons, like writers, photographers, editors, etc., served in multiple roles that significantly impacted the final product, they may be listed on content categories and/or craft achievement categories provided they don’t violate double-dipping guidelines.
Examples:
• If a craft person is a writer/photographer on a documentary, they could enter the documentary in a program category listing themselves as only the writer. They could also enter the documentary (or a portion of it) in the photographer craft category, listing themselves as photographer only.
• If they are not an entrant on the program entry, they could enter the writer and/or photographer craft categories, using the same material since they performed different job functions.
• If they list themselves as both writer and photographer on the program entry, they are ineligible to enter either the writer or photographer craft categories.
• They cannot enter either craft category using the dual job title since one craft category is only for writer and the other only for photographer.
The National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences assumes no responsibility for the acts or omissions of those individuals or entities submitting entries pursuant to this notice. All submitting entities and/or individuals are advised to review submissions with respect to correct name credits and other information. NATAS shall accept all submissions that are not in conflict with any of its rules and regulations.
Once a Chapter’s award nominations are announced, there is a 5 calendar day grace period in which names, under extreme, special circumstances, can be added to a nominated entry. These requests should be authorized in writing to the Chapter from the person who submitted the entry or one of the entry nominees requesting this addition and detailing why this request should be granted. An individual may petition the Chapter directly if the situation warrants. The Chapter’s Awards Committee will make the final decision and ruling.
Once the Emmy® Awards ceremony has concluded, NO individual names can be added to an awarded entry as an additional recipient, under any circumstances.
The entrant warrants that they are the party most responsible for the award-worthiness of the entry. The intentional falsification of production credits or entry credits will result in disqualification.
Attempts to adjust show titles, original distribution dates and/or descriptions of content in order to submit to multiple chapters or multiple categories, regardless of the circumstances, is prohibited.
Ineligible entries may be disqualified during any phase of the competition.
Each entrant agrees that any form of analog and/or digital recording, whether it be film, tape recording, screenshot or supplemental printed material that is furnished to NATAS in connection with an entry may be retained by NATAS for file, reference and archival purposes and may be viewed partially or in its entirety for judging purposes. All of, or portions of, said content may be used on or in connection with the awards ceremony, any broadcast/telecast and other exhibition, including internet; as well as with promotional announcements or activities for any of the foregoing. If required, the entrant is further responsible for approval and clearances to the appropriate parties for any use of this copyrighted content.
Judging panels should be made up of no fewer than 6 qualified judges who shall be certified as peer judges, with no more than 3 of those judges from the same station or company. Whenever possible, it is preferred that the judging coordinator secure at least 8 qualified individuals to serve on a judging panel. Judges may not have a conflict of interest, which is described as having a direct involvement in the production of an entry, or having a personal relationship with a member of the production staff of an entry. Group ownership, by itself, does not necessarily create a conflict of interest.
Entries are judged against a standard of excellence on their own merit and do not compete against each other. Craft entries are evaluated using a 1-10 scale each for Creativity and Execution. All other entries are scored using a 1-10 scale each for Content, Creativity and Execution. There may be one award, more than one award or no award given in each category. Any exceptions will be noted in the category description.
Entries in English will be judged by English-speaking professionals. Entries in Spanish will be judged by Spanish-speaking professionals. Entries in other languages may be entered. We recommend that entrants in languages other than English or Spanish submit an English-language translation of the spoken sequences.
The success of the Emmy® Awards process depends on the willingness of qualified professionals to serve as judges. Peers in other NATAS Chapters are judging our Chapter’s entries. Our Chapter will judge other Chapters’ entries. By entering, you agree to serve as a judge when asked.
In order to maintain fair, consistent peer judging without influence, judges must not disclose how they voted. If they ignore or abuse this privilege, their ballot will be disqualified and/or their judging status revoked.
Producers, craft persons and other eligible entrants as listed on the entry form receive the Emmy® statuette.
Eligible entrants must have significant, creative, and hands-on involvement in the actual production of the video that is submitted. Roles peripheral to the actual video production (proposal/grant writing, research, fundraising, general supervision, etc.) are not substantial enough to be considered in this competition.
Executive Producers and management personnel (such as News Directors) are not eligible for Emmy® statuettes unless directly involved in the hands-on production of the work submitted. Those who serve in a managerial or supervisory role only should not be listed on the entry. To be considered, Executive Producers, General Managers, News Directors or other management personnel must have directly participated in the execution of the video. In such cases, a written request outlining the person’s involvement should be submitted via email to the Chapter’s awards committee for approval.
Note: General Managers are statuette eligible for the Overall Excellence category. News Directors are statuette eligible for the News Excellence category.
In the Craft Achievement categories, those who actually perform a specific discipline receive the Emmy® statuette. Supervising or directing the work of others does not qualify except for achievements in directing categories.
Emmy® Awards are presented to individuals, not to their employers. It is the individual entrant’s achievement that is being judged and recognized, even if an employer pays entry fees.
Others who work on a nominated or recognized entry may order contributor certificates or plaques. Individuals who did not receive a statuette, but were eligible for production certificates and/or plaques are not considered Emmy® recipients.
As a courtesy, stations, studios, production companies and other Chapter-approved organizations may order a commemorative statuette for public display at their place of business. The statuette is engraved the same as the original Emmy® Award, with the word “commemorative” added. Neither the organization’s name nor any other special wording may be engraved in place of where the individual’s name and position would usually appear. Commemorative Emmy® statuettes cannot be ordered for individuals.
All publicity, advertising or any written reference undertaken by nominees and award recipients to the Emmy® Awards, must clearly state that the awarded achievement is for a Regional Emmy® Award. The word “Regional” must appear in these instances. The recipient of a nomination or an Emmy® Award may refer in advertising and publicity to the fact that they have been honored only for one year after the recognition was bestowed. They may use a replica of the Emmy® statuette in such advertising. Individuals who significantly contributed to the production or craft but were not honored with a statuette cannot specifically advertise they are an Emmy® Award recipient. They can only state they worked on the recognized program.
The Emmy® statuette is the property of and all rights are reserved by The National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences (NATAS) and the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences (Television Academy). The Emmy® statuette may not be reproduced or used in any commercial manner unless otherwise permitted by NATAS, it being understood that possession of the same is solely for the benefit of the recipient and the recipient’s heirs or successors in interest. If a recipient or the recipient’s heir or successor in interest proposes to sell, loan, donate or otherwise dispose of the Emmy® statuette, such persons shall be obligated to return the statuette to The National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences which will retain the same in storage in memory of the recipient.
A ® registration mark and the appropriate copyright notice: © NATAS/Television Academy must accompany any portrayal of the Emmy® statuette or moniker.
Mid-America Regional EMMY® Awards
CATEGORIES
#100 SERIES
101 · Morning / Daytime Newscast — Markets 1-49
102 · Morning / Daytime Newscast — Markets 50+
103 · Evening Newscast — Markets 1-49
104 · Evening Newscast — Markets 50-99
105 · Evening Newscast — Markets 100+
106 · Weekend Newscast — All Markets
107 · News Special
108 · Daily News Report — Single Shift
109 · Hard News Report — No Production Time Limit
110 · Breaking/Spot News — Single Report
111 · Breaking/Spot News — Multiple Reports
112 · Continuing Coverage
113 · Team Coverage
114 · Investigative — Single Report
115 · Investigative — Multiple Reports
116 · News Feature — Light Feature (Single Report or Multiple Reports)
117 · News Feature — Serious Feature (Single Report or Multiple Reports)
118 · Arts/Entertainment — News
119 · Business/Consumer — News
120 · Crime/Justice — News
121 · Diversity/Equity/Inclusion — News
122 · Education/Schools — News
123 · Environment/Science — News
124 · Health/Medical — News
125 · Historical/Cultural — News
126 · Human Interest — News
127 · Military — News
128 · Politics/Government — News
129 · Religion — News
130 · Societal Concerns — News
131 · Weather — News
132 · Weathercast
#200 SERIES
201 · Sports Story — News
202 · Sports Story — Short Form Content
203 · Sportscast
204 · Sports Interview/Discussion
205 · Sports Program — Live
206 · Sports Program — Post-Produced or Edited
207 · Sports — One-Time Special
208 · Live Sporting Event/Game
#300 SERIES
301 · Documentary — Cultural
302 · Documentary — Historical
303 · Magazine Program
304 · Public Affairs Program
305 · Special Event Coverage — Live
306 · Informational/Instructional — Short Form Content
307 · Informational/Instructional — Long Form Content
308 · Interview/Discussion — Short Form or Long Form Content
309 · Branded Content — Short Form Content
310 · Branded Content — Long Form Content
311 · Arts/Entertainment — Short Form Content
312 · Entertainment — Short Form Content
313 · Arts/Entertainment — Long Form Content
314 · Business/Consumer — Short Form Content
315 · Diversity/Equity/Inclusion — Short Form Content
316 · Education/Schools — Short Form Content
317 · Environment/Science — Short Form Content
318 · Health/Medical — Short Form Content
319 · Historical/Cultural — Short Form Content
320 · Human Interest — Short Form Content
321 · Human Interest — Long Form Content
322 · Lifestyle — Long Form Content
323 · Religion — Short Form Content
324 · Societal Concerns — Short Form Content
325 · Politics/Government — Short Form Content
326 · Politics/Government — Long Form Content
#400 SERIES
401 · Public Service Announcement — Single Sport or Campaign
402 · Promotion — News - Topical (Single Spot)
403 · Promotion — News - Image/Campaign
404 · Promotion — Program (Single Spot)
405 · Promotion — Program - Image Promo or Promo Campaign
406 · Promotion — Sports
407 · Commercial — Single Spot
408 · Commercial — Campaign
#500 SERIES
501 · Overall Excellence
502 · News Excellence
503 · Community Service
504 · Journalistic Enterprise — Individual
#600 SERIES
601 · Anchor — News
602 · Anchor — Weather
603 · Anchor — Sports
604 · Reporter — Live
605 · Program Host/Moderator
606 · Writer — News, Short Form or Long Form Content
607 · Writer — Short Form or Long Form Content
608 · Director — Live or Recorded Live
609 · Director — Short Form or Long Form Content
610 · Editor — News
611 · Editor — Short Form or Long Form Content
612 · Photographer — News
613 · Photographer — Short Form or Long Form Content
614 · Multimedia Journalist
615 · Graphic Arts — Motion Graphics and Visual Effects
616 · Audio — Live or Post Production
617 · Musical Composition/Arrangement
NEWS CONTENT
News content categories are intended for journalistic material produced by news departments within television stations, newspapers or online news reporting entities.
Producers should be the primary entrants for these categories. Qualified others may be eligible if their contributions are significant to the entry’s award-worthiness. Submitters who created work as part of media pool coverage can only enter their material once and must clearly identify their contributions on the entry.
For single News entries, the original video and submission length must not exceed 10 minutes.
Multi-part news series entries are eligible and must include a minimum of two (2) but no more than five (5) separate reports from the series. Total submission time limit for News series entries may not exceed 15 minutes.
NOTE: One (1) second of black must be inserted between elements of a series entry or between excerpts if the original video has been edited to fit the entry time limit for the category.
101
Morning / Daytime Newscast — Markets 1-49
Chapter Note: 4:00pm Newscasts should be entered in #103 Evening Newscast
ENTRY TIME LIMIT: 30 MINUTES
102
Morning / Daytime — Markets 50+
Chapter Note: 4:00pm Newscasts should be entered in #104 or #105 Evening Newscast
ENTRY TIME LIMIT: 30 MINUTES
106
Weekend Newscast — All Markets
Chapter Note: this is for day and evening weekend newscasts.
ENTRY TIME LIMIT: 30 MINUTES
For excellence in a regularly scheduled newscast. Entry will be judged on overall content, presentation, enterprise, writing, format, teases, etc. Post edits are not permitted except for the removal of commercials. For newscasts and news specials that exceed the specified category time limit entrant may submit up to 3 excerpts.
Note: This is the basic news reporting done day-in and day-out by a news department. Entries in this category typically evolve out of the daily planning of a newscast or other news distribution product.
For excellence in coverage of a one-time-only, significant, newsworthy event, occasion or topic. Subject should be an in-depth treatment of a current topic.
Note: This is the basic news reporting done day-in and day-out by a news department. Entries in this category typically evolve out of the daily planning of a newscast or other news distribution product.
For excellence in coverage of a single news story or topic which is shot, edited and aired within one work shift. Entry may include live and/or recorded elements and online video content. Topic covered must not be considered a news investigative report or news specialty report.
Note: This is the basic news reporting done day-in and day-out by a news department. Entries in this category typically evolve out of the daily planning of a newscast or other news distribution product.
For excellence in coverage of a single hard news story or topic which has no time limit for its preparation. Entry may include live and/or recorded elements and online video content. Topic covered must not be considered a news investigative report or news specialty report.
Chapter Note: This is the basic news reporting done day-in and day-out by a news department. Entries in this category typically evolve out of the daily planning of a newscast or other news distribution product.
For excellence in coverage of a single unanticipated news event. Entry should convey a sense of immediacy in the coverage of an unfolding event. Entry must be one continuous report as originally broadcast or streamed. Entry may include live or taped elements or a combination of both.
Note: Regional recipients in this category are eligible, at their discretion, to compete for a crystal pillar in the National News and Documentary Awards in the following category: Outstanding Regional News Story – Breaking News.
For excellence in coverage of a single unanticipated news event. Entry should convey a sense of immediacy in the coverage of an unfolding event. Entry should be a composite of at least two (2) reports on the same topic – as they were originally broadcast or streamed. Exempt from composite and excerpt limit rules. Entry may include live or taped elements and online video content.
Note: Regional recipients in this category are eligible, at their discretion, to compete for a crystal pillar in the National News and Documentary Awards in the following category: Outstanding Regional News Story – Breaking News.
For excellence in coverage of a single, evolving news topic through an extended number of reports distributed over a time period exceeding 24 hours. Entries will be judged in part on story advancement. Entry should be a composite of at least two (2) reports as they were originally broadcast or streamed. Exempt from composite and excerpt limit rules.
Chapter Note: Continuing coverage entries typically consist of an establishing report followed up by additional reports that show how the story has evolved and changed with new revelations or sidebar stories over a longer period of time, such as days, weeks or months.
For excellence by a team involved in covering multiple news reports on a single subject, shot, edited, produced and broadcast or streamed within 24 hours. Entry may include multiple live and/or recorded elements and online video content. Entry may be a single, continuous report or a composite of multiple reports or elements. Exempt from composite and excerpt limit rules.
Chapter Note: As a team entry, multiple entrants must be listed on the entry form.
For excellence in a single report focused on a community problem requiring research and investigative journalism. Entry will be judged on the quality and extent of research, the presentation and the impact of the reporting, which may include new legislation, policies, government or legal investigations, public outcry, etc. Entry must include written documentation in the synopsis section of the online entry form.
For excellence in a series of reports covering one investigation focused on a specific community problem requiring research and investigative journalism. Entry will be judged on the quality and extent of research, the presentation and the impact of the reporting, which may include new legislation, policies, government or legal investigations, public outcry, etc. Entry must include written documentation in the synopsis section of the entry form and a minimum of two (2) reports.
Chapter Note: Regional recipients in this category are eligible, at their discretion, to compete for a crystal pillar in the National News and Documentary Awards in the following category: Outstanding Regional News Story Investigative Report.
116
News Feature — Light Feature (Single Report or Multiple Reports)
SINGLE REPORT ENTRY TIME LIMIT: 10 MINUTES
MULTIPLE REPORT ENTRY TIME LIMIT: 15 MINUTES
For excellence in reporting of feature news stories or topics. Features are generally defined as stories that have a personal, emotional or creative slant and include elements that go beyond the scope of straight factual information found in a hard news story. Multiple Report entries may include either several reports on the same feature topic, or several reports from an ongoing titled feature news series and must include a minimum of two (2) and no more than five (5) reports.
117
News Feature — Serious Feature (Single Report or Multiple Reports)
SINGLE REPORT ENTRY TIME LIMIT: 10 MINUTES
MULTIPLE REPORT ENTRY TIME LIMIT: 15 MINUTES
For excellence in reporting of feature news stories or topics. Features are generally defined as stories that have a personal, emotional or creative slant and include elements that go beyond the scope of straight factual information found in a hard news story. Multiple Report entries may include either several reports on the same feature topic, or several reports from an ongoing titled feature news series and must include a minimum of two (2) and no more than five (5) reports.
For excellence in news or journalistic coverage of general entertainment, variety or visual and performing arts.
For excellence in news or journalistic coverage of business, finance, consumer affairs or economic topics.
Chapter Note: For category viability, Business/Consumer– News entries may be combined with Business/Consumer – Short Form Content entries.
For excellence in news or journalistic coverage of crime, victims, courts, or justice related topics.
For excellence in news or journalistic coverage focused on topics including racism, discrimination, inequity, marginalized communities and similar social injustices, notably focused on efforts to raise awareness or effect positive change.
For excellence in news or journalistic coverage of schools, teaching or education related topics.
Chapter Note: For category viability, this category may be combined with Education/Schools – Short Form Content.
For excellence in news or journalistic coverage of environmental impact issues, science or related topics.
For excellence in news or journalistic coverage of health or medical related topics.
For excellence in news or journalistic coverage about historical or cultural related topics.
For excellence in news or journalistic coverage of stories that appeal to the human spirit.
For excellence in news or journalistic coverage of military related topics.
For excellence in news or journalistic coverage of political, civil or government related topics.
Chapter Note: For category viability, this category may be combined with Politics/Government – Short Form Content.
For excellence in news or journalistic coverage of religious and/or spiritual related topics.
Chapter Note: For category viability, Religion – News entries may be combined with Religion – Short Form Content entries.
For excellence in news or journalistic coverage of current issues of societal concern, community or immediate public interest.
For excellence in news or journalistic coverage of weather-related topics.
For excellence in an anchored weather segment from within a newscast.
Sports CONTENT
Producers should be the primary entrants for Sports Content categories. Qualified others may be eligible if their contributions are significant to the entry’s award-worthiness.
Sports News content is only eligible in the appropriate News subcategories.
For Short Form Content and Sportscast entries, the original video must not exceed 10 minutes.
Series entries are eligible and must include a minimum of two (2) but no more than five (5) separate segments from the series. Total submission time limit for News and Short Form Content series entries may not exceed 15 minutes.
For Program entries, no more than three (3) excerpts may be included to bring longer content to the 30-minute entry time limit (exception: Sports - One-Time Special) Excerpts must be presented in original, chronological order.
CHAPTER NOTE: One (1) second of black must be inserted between elements of a series entry or between excerpts if the original video has been edited to fit the entry time limit for the category.
For excellence in news or journalistic coverage of sports, athletes, coaches and other related topics.
For excellence in content about sports, athletes, coaches and other related topics. This category is intended for features, segments and other storytelling vehicles of varying lengths and NOT for traditional 30 or 60-minute programs.
For excellence in an anchored sports segment from within a newscast.
For excellence in content consisting of sports interview/discussion content that is at least 75% unscripted. This category is primarily intended for formal interviews where both the interviewer(s) and interviewee(s) are visible on camera and engaged in discussion.
Chapter Note: Some visual elements may supplement the interview, but entries for this category are live or recorded live and not heavily post-produced. Edited interviews do not qualify.
Chapter Note: One (1) second of black must be inserted or between excerpts if the original video has been edited to fit the entry time limit for the category.
For excellence in a sports program or series that is live or recorded live. Entry must have, as its basis, special coverage not to be taken from a newscast, including but not limited to pregame and postgame shows surrounding live sporting events. Entry may include multi-camera and pre-produced segments that cover the full spectrum of the event. Entry may not have post edits except for the removal of commercials. Entry will be judged on overall content, presentation, enterprise, writing, format, teases, etc.
Chapter Note: One (1) second of black must be inserted or between excerpts if the original video has been edited to fit the entry time limit for the category.
For excellence in a daily or weekly sports program or sports series (non-news). Entry must have, as its basis, special coverage not to be taken from a newscast. Content in these programs is post-produced and heavily edited. Entry may have no post-broadcast edits except for the removal of commercials. Entry will be judged on overall content, presentation, enterprise, writing, format, teases, etc.
Chapter Note: One (1) second of black must be inserted or between excerpts if the original video has been edited to fit the entry time limit for the category.
For excellence in a one-time sports-related special program that is not part of a daily or weekly sports program, game or series. Entry may be live, recorded live or post-produced. Entry should have no post edits except for the removal of commercials. Entry may include no more than eight (8) excerpts to bring the entry down to the 30-minute time limit.
Note: Examples might include content surrounding regional coverage of the World Series, Opening Day, or High School Football Championship Preview.
Chapter Note: One (1) second of black must be inserted or between excerpts if the original video has been edited to fit the entry time limit for the category.
For excellence in production of a single (live or recorded live) sporting event or game. A composite is required and should include examples of: Show Open, Specialty Graphics, Use of Replays, Inserted Pre-Produced Segments, Use of Statistical or Other Prepared Material, Highlights, Exceptional Coverage and any additional material at entrant’s discretion. Entry may include no more than eight (8) excerpts to bring the entry down to the 30-minute entry time limit.
Chapter Note: One (1) second of black must be inserted or between excerpts if the original video has been edited to fit the entry time limit for the category.
PROGRAMMING CONTENT
Producers should be the primary entrants for Programming Content categories. Qualified others may be eligible if their contributions are significant to the entry’s award-worthiness. Submitters who created work as part of media pool coverage can only enter their material once and must clearly identify their contributions on the entry.
Unless otherwise noted, the time limit for any program or long form content category is 30 minutes. A maximum of three (3) segments/excerpts is permitted to bring longer programs to the required entry time limit. For program series or long form series entries, the entry must include excerpts from at least two (2) episodes from the series.
Short Form content must be submitted in its entirety as originally distributed. The original video and submission length must not exceed 10 minutes.
News content is only eligible in the appropriate News categories.
CHAPTER NOTE: One (1) second of black must be inserted between elements of a series entry or between excerpts if the original video has been edited to fit the entry time limit for the category.
For excellence in the creation of a formal, structured television presentation with dramatic impact of an event, condition or situation of current, cultural and/or historical significance.
Chapter Note: One (1) second of black must be between excerpts if the original video has been edited to fit the entry time limit for the category.
For excellence in the creation of a formal, structured television presentation with dramatic impact of an event, condition or situation of current, cultural and/or historical significance.
Chapter Note: One (1) second of black must be between excerpts if the original video has been edited to fit the entry time limit for the category.
For excellence in a program or series consisting of various stories of regional interest designed to entertain and inform.
Chapter Note: One (1) second of black must be between excerpts if the original video has been edited to fit the entry time limit for the category.
For excellence in a program or series that focuses on current community, social or political issues that are of general public interest or concern.
Chapter Note: One (1) second of black must be between excerpts if the original video has been edited to fit the entry time limit for the category.
For excellence in coverage of a one-time-only, anticipated community or entertainment event such as a parade, holiday fireworks or a funeral procession. Entry may include multi-cameras and pre-produced segments that cover the full spectrum of the event. Live entries should include at least 75% live material, with no post edits.
Chapter Note: Entry should include at least 75% live material, with no post edits.
Chapter Note: One (1) second of black must be between excerpts if the original video has been edited to fit the entry time limit for the category.
306
Informational/Instructional — Short Form Content (up to 10 minutes)
ENTRY TIME LIMIT: 10 MINUTES
For excellence in content whose purpose is to be instructional; to teach formally or informally about a subject.
For excellence in content whose purpose is to be instructional; to teach formally or informally about a subject.
Chapter Note: One (1) second of black must be between excerpts if the original video has been edited to fit the entry time limit for the category.
For excellence in content that consists of interview/discussion material that is at least 75% unscripted. This category is primarily intended for formal interviews where both the interviewer(s) and the interviewee(s) are visible on camera and engaged in discussion.
Note: Some visual elements may supplement the interview, but entries for this category are typically live or recorded live and not heavily post-produced.
Chapter Note: Unscripted is also defined as unedited. These are considered “live to tape” interviews where the conversation is not edited. Edited interviews are not eligible.
Chapter Note: Sports interview discussion programs should enter in category #204.
Chapter Note: One (1) second of black must be between excerpts if the original video has been edited to fit the entry time limit for the category.
For excellence in a complete, stand-alone video or video series produced with the intention of connecting or engaging an audience with an organization’s brand. The content may tell a story and/or inform in an entertaining, creative, or emotional way. The video includes some visual branding, product placement or overt mention of the organization at the center of the production. Because of the nuanced nature of what constitutes “Branded Content,” final determination of category placement is at the discretion of the Chapter’s Awards Committee.
Businesses or non-profits that produce content to highlight their own establishments or services
Hospital or medical stories promoting a particular health care facility or cause such as organ/tissue donation
Videos in which organizations explore topical issues or put forth chosen experts to offer advice on topics with a focus on the organization’s viewpoint or services
Travel content produced by or for specific destinations such as “what to do when you’re in Las Vegas”
Local power company vignettes telling the story of the company’s evolution in the community
Police/fire department recruitment videos
College tour or recruitment videos
Note: Video may not contain a call for commerce. Website URLs or requests to follow social media accounts do not constitute calls for commerce. Program length commercials (infomercials) are not eligible. Content from projects identified as “branded” may not be entered in other content categories.
Examples:
For excellence in a complete, stand-alone video or video series produced with the intention of connecting or engaging an audience with an organization’s brand. The content may tell a story and/or inform in an entertaining, creative, or emotional way. The video includes some visual branding, product placement or overt mention of the organization at the center of the production.
Businesses or non-profits that produce content to highlight their own establishments or services
Hospital or medical stories promoting a particular health care facility or cause such as organ/tissue donation
Videos in which organizations explore topical issues or put forth chosen experts to offer advice on topics with a focus on the organization’s viewpoint or services
Travel content produced by or for specific destinations such as “what to do when you’re in Las Vegas”
Local power company vignettes telling the story of the company’s evolution in the community
Police/fire department recruitment videos
College tour or recruitment videos
Chapter Note: Video may not contain a call for commerce. Website URLs or requests to follow social media accounts do not constitute calls for commerce. Program length commercials (infomercials) are not eligible. Content from projects identified as “branded” may not be entered in other content categories.
Examples:
Chapter Note: One (1) second of black must be between excerpts if the original video has been edited to fit the entry time limit for the category.
For excellence in content about general entertainment, variety or visual and performing arts.
For excellence in content whose purpose is to entertain. Examples include scripted content, music videos, live stage performance.
Chapter Note: One (1) second of black must be between excerpts if the original video has been edited to fit the entry time limit for the category.
For excellence in content about general entertainment, variety or visual and performing arts.
Chapter Note: One (1) second of black must be between excerpts if the original video has been edited to fit the entry time limit for the category.
For excellence in content about business, finance, consumer affairs or economic topics.
For excellence in content focused on topics including racism, discrimination, inequity, marginalized communities and similar social injustices, notably focused on efforts to raise awareness or effect positive change.
For excellence in content about schools, teaching or education related topics.
Chapter Note: For category viability, the category may be combined with Education/Schools – News.
For excellence in content about environmental impact issues, science, or related topics.
For excellence in content about health or medical related topics.
For excellence in content about historical or cultural related topics.
For excellence in content that appeals to the human spirit.
For excellence in content that appeals to the human spirit.
Chapter Note: One (1) second of black must be inserted between excerpts if the original video has been edited to fit the entry time limit for the category.
For excellence in content that deals with everyday life subjects such as: food preparation, recipes, techniques, home improvement, decoration, renovation, gardening, outdoors, crafts and/or automotive repairs.
Chapter Note: One (1) second of black must be inserted between excerpts if the original video has been edited to fit the entry time limit for the category.
For excellence in content about religious and/or spiritual related topics.
Chapter Note: For category viability, Religion – Short Form Content may be combined with Religion – News entries.
For excellence in content about current issues of societal concern, community or immediate public interest.
For excellence in content about political, civil or government related topics.
Chapter Note: For category viability, this category may be combined with Politics/Government – News.
For excellence in content about political, civil or government related topics.
Chapter Note: One (1) second of black must be inserted between excerpts if the original video has been edited to fit the entry time limit for the category.
SPOT ANNOUNCEMENTS
For excellence in promotional, commercial or public service announcements. Entries must be regionally conceived, produced and distributed. Spots that contain more than 50% of network or syndicator-provided material do not qualify. Music, graphics and pre-edited video constitute such material. Spots may be 5 seconds to 2 minutes in length, except for the Long Form Promotional Spot category. If a campaign is entered, a maximum of five (5) spots may be included which are edited together for a single video upload. If a campaign is entered, no spots from that same campaign may be submitted in a single-spot category.
CHAPTER NOTE: One (1) second of black must be inserted between elements of a campaign.
401
Public Service Announcement — Single Spot or Campaign
ENTRY TIME LIMIT: 10 MINUTES (up to five spots, each spot up to 2 minutes in length)
For excellence in announcements that effectively create awareness, focus interest on or marshal support for worthy community causes or organizations.
Chapter Note: One (1) second of black must be inserted between elements of a campaign.
For excellence in announcements that promote news departments within television stations, newspapers or online news reporting entities and/or content produced by those entities. This includes promotion of or teases for specific news stories, breaking news or weather, sports content within newscasts, news specials, news image and on-air news/weather/sports anchors and reporters.
Chapter Note: May include cold opens and in-show teases.
403
Promotion — News – Image/Campaign
ENTRY TIME LIMIT: 10 minutes (up to five spots, each spot up to 2 minutes in length)
For excellence in announcements that promote news departments within television stations, newspapers or online news reporting entities and/or content produced by those entities. This includes promotion of or teases for specific news stories, breaking news or weather, sports content within newscasts, news specials, news image and on-air news/weather/sports anchors and reporters.
Chapter Note: One (1) second of black must be inserted between elements of a campaign.
For excellence in announcements that promote content produced outside the news department. This includes spots that promote a broader station/company image as well as regionally produced spots for network, local and/or syndicated programming.
Chapter Note: Sports Content promotion should enter in #406 Promotion Sports.
405
Promotion — Program — Image Promotion or Promotional Campaign
ENTRY TIME LIMIT: 10 minutes (up to five spots, each spot up to 2 minutes in length)
For excellence in announcements that promote content produced outside the news department. This includes spots that promote a broader station/company image as well as regionally produced spots for network, local and/or syndicated programming.
Chapter Note: This category is intended for non-news promotional campaigns- both Image Promo and Promotional Campaign. Single spots are included.
Chapter Note: One (1) second of black must be inserted between elements of a campaign.
For excellence in announcements that promote sports content produced outside the news department. This includes spots that promote a broader station/company image as well as regionally produced spots for network, local and/or syndicated programming.
Chapter Note: This is for single spots and campaigns.
Chapter Note: One (1) second of black must be inserted between elements of a campaign.
Chapter Note: Intended for promos produced for content that would be entered in the Sports Content section with the exception of Sports Story – News.
For excellence in commercial production advertising a product, business or service that is conceived, written, created and produced in and for the regional market. Program length commercials (infomercials) are not eligible.
408
Commercial — Campaign
ENTRY TIME LIMIT: 10 minutes (up to five spots, each spot up to 2 minutes in length)
For excellence in commercial production advertising a product, business or service that is conceived, written, created and produced in and for the regional market. Program length commercials (infomercials) are not eligible.
Chapter Note: One (1) second of black must be inserted between elements of a campaign.
SPECIAL ACHIEVEMENT
A statuette is awarded only to the eligible recipient(s) in each category. Others who may have contributed to the content and execution of the material presented in the entry may purchase plaques to commemorate their participation.
An entry submitted in a Special Achievement category may not be duplicated in its entirety in any other Special Achievement category.
Awarded to the President/General Manager only for excellence in the overall operations of a television station, news/sports cable system or online media outlet, during the eligibility period. Entry should reflect the organization’s overall local product including any news & sports coverage, other locally produced programs, promotional announcements, on-air examples of events hosted by the organization and involvement in the community, and any further evidence of excellence. Entrants are encouraged to include community outreach and video content distributed via social media and digital platforms. Entry should emphasize the quality, breadth, and efficacy of the organization’s operations, stressing substance rather than style, and exhibit performance in sustaining excellence throughout the eligibility year. Exempt from the excerpt and composite limits, but the entry must be comprised only of material as actually distributed. No introductions, postproduction, montages, music, or special effects may be added. This is not intended to be a “buzz” or demo reel. Entry should include a written synopsis of the organization’s operation and achievements. Synopsis may be uploaded as a PDF or typed into the available text box within the online entry form.
Chapter Note: This category is exempt from double-dipping rules. Only one entrant may be listed on the entry.
Chapter Note: One (1) second of black must be inserted between excerpts if the original video has been edited to fit the entry time limit for the category.
Awarded to the News Director only for excellence in the overall news operation during the eligibility period. Entry should present as many different examples as possible, including, but not limited to: enterprise in general assignment reporting, breaking news coverage, specialty and beat reporting, series, documentaries, continuing coverage of community issues, editorials/commentaries, etc. Entrants are encouraged to include community outreach and video content distributed via social media and digital platforms. Entry should emphasize the quality, breadth, and efficacy of a news operation, stressing substance rather than style, and exhibit the news department’s performance in sustaining excellence throughout the year. Exempt from the excerpt and composite limits, but the entry must be comprised only of material as actually distributed. No introductions, postproduction, montages, music or special effects may be added. This is not intended to be a “buzz” or demo reel. Entry should include a written synopsis of the news organization’s operation and achievements. Synopsis may be uploaded as a PDF or typed into the available text box within the online entry form.
Note: This category is exempt from double-dipping rules. However, the entry submitted for News Excellence may not also be submitted in another Special Achievement category. Only one entrant may be listed on the entry.
Chapter Note: One (1) second of black must be inserted between excerpts if the original video has been edited to fit the entry time limit for the category.
Awarded to the individual most responsible for excellence in programming; whether news or non-news, involving the entire company in a continuing effort to focus interest on and marshal support for a worthy community cause or causes. Entrants are encouraged to include community outreach and video content distributed via social media and digital platforms. Entry should emphasize the depth, breadth, duration and efficacy of the efforts and must be comprised only of material as actually distributed. No introductions, post-production, montages, music or special effects may be added. Composite entries are allowed, but entry is exempt from the excerpt and composite limits. Entry should include a written synopsis of the organization’s efforts and achievements. Synopsis may be uploaded as a PDF or typed into the available text box within the online entry form.
Note: This category is exempt from double-dipping rules. Only one entrant may be listed on the entry.
Chapter Note: One (1) second of black must be inserted between excerpts if the original video has been edited to fit the entry time limit for the category.
For excellence in the continuing endeavor of high journalistic enterprise, which may include investigative pieces, breaking news, features, profiles, interviews, documentaries, etc. Composite entry may include a maximum of 5 different stories. The distribution date and length of each story must be submitted with the entry.
Note: This category is NOT exempt from double-dipping rules.
CRAFT Achievement
For excellence in a specific craft discipline demonstrating the skills of one or more individuals. Each entry may contain a single example of the craft, or a composite of material as originally distributed. While craft entrants may submit more than one entry per craft discipline, only one of those entries may be a composite. Elements of the composite may not be separately entered as individual craft entries in the same craft category. Craft awards are intended for hands-on craft persons, not those who supervise craft persons.
CHAPTER NOTE: One (1) second of black must be inserted between elements of a composite.
CHAPTER NOTE: A composite is a sampling of a minimum of two (2) and no more than five (5) representative segments or examples of work that convey to a judging panel the scope, breadth, or range of an individual’s talents within the specified craft category. The elements within a composite, unless otherwise noted in the category description, are to be “as aired” with no post-distribution changes, such as additional edits, music or special effects. Composites may include stories or segments in their entirety and/or excerpts from longer content. One to two seconds of black between cuts, with no audio or slates, must be added to separate segments within the composite.
For Anchor, Sports Analyst and Sports Play-by-Play categories only:
A segment is an excerpt from a news program (newscast, news special, breaking news, live sporting event/game, etc.) with material that doesn’t include the entrant edited out. An entry may include up to five segments. Each segment may include material from only ONE program: think of this as “five segments equals five changes of clothing” rule. It’s allowed, but not required, for the co-anchor’s and reporters’ video to be edited out of a segment. Anchor entries may include examples of studio anchoring, field anchoring, specials, breaking, etc., but NOT reporter packages (if an anchor also does reporter packages, they must enter those in one of the reporter categories.)
A segment is an excerpt from a news program (newscast, news special, breaking news, live sporting event/game, etc.) with material that doesn’t include the entrant edited out. An entry may include up to five segments. Each segment may include material from only ONE program: think of this as “five segments equals five changes of clothing” rule. It’s allowed, but not required, for the co-anchor’s and reporters’ video to be edited out of a segment. Anchor entries may include examples of studio anchoring, field anchoring, specials, breaking, etc., but NOT reporter packages (if an anchor also does reporter packages, they must enter those in one of the reporter categories.)
Chapter Note: One (1) second of black must be inserted between elements of a composite.
Chapter Note: One (1) second of black must be inserted between elements of a composite.
Chapter Note: One (1) second of black must be inserted between elements of a composite.
Chapter Note: One (1) second of black must be inserted between elements of a composite.
Chapter Note: One (1) second of black must be inserted between elements of a composite.
Chapter Note: One (1) second of black must be inserted between elements of a composite.
Note: Script preferred for all writer categories.
(PL Track Preferred)
Chapter Note: One (1) second of black must be inserted between elements of a composite.
Chapter Note: One (1) second of black must be inserted between elements of a composite.
Chapter Note: One (1) second of black must be inserted between elements of a composite.
Chapter Note: One (1) second of black must be inserted between elements of a composite.
Chapter Note: One (1) second of black must be inserted between elements of a composite.
Chapter Note: One (1) second of black must be inserted between elements of a composite.
For excellence by a cross-discipline individual, serving as photojournalist, editor, talent, and writer (also known as an MMJ or VJ); covering a single or multi-part video story or topic. Entry may not be submitted in any other craft category. Composites are permitted.
Chapter Note: One (1) second of black must be inserted between elements of a composite.
Entries must contain graphical elements originally created for regional markets. Re-purposed content from national sources is not eligible. Graphics Composites may include more than 5 examples of work, for up to five minutes of entry video, as long as each example is separated by one second of black and there is no other post-production to the entry.
Chapter Note: One (1) second of black must be inserted between elements of a composite.
Chapter Note: One (1) second of black must be inserted between elements of a composite.
Chapter Note: One (1) second of black must be inserted between elements of a composite.
GLOSSARY OF TERMS
The document that provides information related to the Emmy® Awards contests, including rules, guidelines and categories.
A committee that oversees the Regional Emmy® Awards contest within a particular NATAS Chapter. This committee has the final say on selecting categories for the Chapter’s Call for Entries, determining content and entrant eligibility and reviewing judges’ challenges (among other duties.)
Programs or other content that consist of previously distributed material in the Programs or other content that consist of previously distributed material in the form of a “year in review” special or a collection of Titled Content Series pieces. These are NOT eligible for submission to Regional Emmy® Awards contests.
Content that is only available to a select and limited audience via distribution on a closed circuit (hospitals, in-flight entertainment, hotels, doctor’s offices, private companies, etc.).
Video content transmitted in a public sports venue, arena or stadium is not considered distribution on a closed circuit and is eligible in content and craft categories.
A sampling of a minimum of two (2) and no more than five (5) representative segments or examples of work that convey to a judging panel the scope, breadth, or range of an individual’s talents within the specified craft category. The elements within a composite, unless otherwise noted in the category description, are to be “as aired” with no post-distribution changes, such as additional edits, music or special effects. Composites may include stories or segments in their entirety and/or excerpts from longer content. One to two seconds of black between cuts, with no audio or slates, must be added to separate segments within the composite.
Having a direct involvement or vested interest in the production of an entry or having a personal relationship with an entrant. Judges may NOT judge entries in which any of these criteria are met. Group ownership, by itself, does not create a conflict of interest.
Examples: A producer working for a station owned by TEGNA in one market is not prohibited from judging an entry produced by another TEGNA-owned station in another Chapter. NBC Sports Chicago personnel are not prohibited from serving as judges for entries produced by NBC Sports Bay Area.
A category for which there are three (3) areas of excellence being considered in the judging process: Content, Creativity and Execution.
Our Chapter’s content categories can be found in category group 100-500.
(also see: Craft Category)
(also see: Craft Category)
A category for which there are two (2) areas of excellence being considered in the judging process: Creativity and Execution. These categories focus solely on the craft designated for each (photography, editing, talent, etc.) Our chapter’s craft categories are in the 600s
(also see: Content Category)
(also see: Content Category)
Short examples edited from content that showcases your work. Demo reels or montages often include shorter excerpts from the original video that may or may not have added music, graphics and/or special effects.
Example: A photographer cannot take short segments from original content and edit those pieces together for a composite submission in the craft category.
Any entry or portion of an entry submitted in more than one content category or an entrant submitting work in an attempt to be recognized more than once for performing the same job function for the same content.
See specific examples of double-dipping in the RULES section of this Call for Entries.
Period of time in which any content must have been produced to be eligible for entry in this regional Emmy® Awards contest. This window varies among NATAS Chapters and will be prominently displayed in each Call for Entries.
The most prestigious peer-judged award recognizing excellence in professional achievement with annual awards of merit in the television industry through extensive, confidential peer review of broadcast work and related media.
Individual whose work has been submitted for consideration in a regional Emmy® Award contest.
Maximum length allowed for the submitted entry video. This does not necessarily correspond with the original length of the video that was aired/distributed for viewing by the general public. Entry Time Limits vary among categories.
Example: The length of a program when it originally aired was 60 minutes. You are entering that program in a category with an Entry Time Limit of 30 minutes. You must follow appropriate guidelines to shorten the entry video to 30 minutes or less.
A continuous segment or section from longer content. Excerpts are used to bring longer content to the category’s specified Entry Time Limit.
While still journalistic in nature, this content takes less of a hard news tone while incorporating strong storytelling. It may be a serious or lighter subject. The story construction and personality of the interviewees are highlighted in a feature story. Feature news stories often run a bit longer and may not have an immediate time peg.
News or Short Form Content that includes multiple installments, all of which are produced under a unifying title and theme.
Examples: “Reports from the Border” that air every Wednesday night on a local newscast, “Tom’s Financial Tips” posted weekly on the web, “Your Pet’s Health” features in an ongoing magazine broadcast.
Classic, fact-gathering and reporting. Should include a news hook and timely peg.
A program or long form content that promotes a product, service or idea and includes a call to commerce.
Systematic, in-depth and original research and reporting of a single topic of interest, such as serious crime, political corruption, or corporate wrongdoing.
Job Title is the word or words under your name on a business card that indicate(s) what job position you hold within the organization for which you work.
Role on Entry is the particular function you performed on an Emmy® Award entry.
Many of these are similar or even the same (Producer, Photographer, Editor) while some job titles (Executive Producer, Chief Creative Officer, Assignment Desk Editor) don’t directly translate to a tangible job function performed during the production process. Entrants often perform roles on an entry that aren’t a part of their job title (a producer who edits, a director who writes, a photographer who lights the set, an editor who produces.) For the purposes of regional Emmy® Award statuette eligibility, Role on Entry is the determining factor over Job Title.
Method of coverage that considers all sides fairly, reporting without bias or persuasion.
One whose work on a production was significant enough to be considered eligible for a regional Emmy® Award statuette. In the estimation of the entry submitter, the entry would not have been award-worthy without this person’s contributions.
Video production that exceeds 10 minutes in length. These subcategories are the intended home for content that previously would have been submitted in Program categories or sub-categories, as well as longer segment or feature categories or sub-categories and online content that meets other eligibility criteria.
One who has completed the membership process in one of the 19 regional NATAS chapters.
(Membership is not required to enter regional Emmy® Awards contests)
The National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences (NATAS) was founded in 1955. It is dedicated to the advancement of the arts and sciences of television and the promotion of creative leadership for artistic, educational and technical achievements within the television industry. It recognizes excellence in television with the coveted Emmy® Award.
Regional Emmy® Awards are given in nineteen regions across the United States. National Awards are given for Daytime Entertainment, News & Documentary, Sports, Children’s & Family, and Technology & Engineering. Beyond awards, NATAS has extensive educational programs including Regional Student Production Awards for outstanding journalistic work by high school students, as well as scholarships, publications and major activities for both industry professionals and the viewing public.
Multiple reports that build on the same subject or news story.
A stand-alone program or content that is not part of a larger series of content.
The date that content was first made available (aired or otherwise distributed) to the general public.
The process by which Emmy® Awards entries are reviewed by professionals of like disciplines for the purpose of determining award-worthiness. Entries are judged against a standard of excellence and not each other.
A digital audio file made available on the Internet for downloading to or streaming on a computer or mobile device. Audio-only Podcasts are not eligible for Emmy® Award consideration. Podcasts that also include a video element would be eligible for regional entry as long as they are in compliance with all other requirements.
A term used to help determine eligibility of content for regional Emmy® Awards contests. This was previously used as the standard of eligibility but has been replaced with the phrase “produced and intended for a regional or local audience,” as the National Awards Committee determined this was more effectively measured and determined.
NOTE: The duties of the newscast producer (the person producing the overall newscast) are generally understood industry-wide and are not outlined here.
This description is meant to define duties associated with producers of specific content within a newscast or program, as well as producers of short/long form content, programs, promos, branded and other eligible content distributed on various platforms.
To be listed on an entry as “Producer” an entrant must perform the majority of the following producer duties:
- Serving as an “overseer” of the content, determining the overall tone, structure, look, sound, and mission of the content.
- Making strategic editorial decisions that have a significant impact on the resulting content.
- Identifying interview subjects and shoot locations.
- Scheduling interviews, shoots, and edits.
- Writing and/or approving scripts.
- Formulating ideas for graphics/animations and working with designers through completion.
- Working with editors to assure the content meets expectations and overseeing necessary changes.
- For studio-based programs or content, the producer would generally fulfill much of the above and/or oversee control room decisions, timing, etc.
The following are NOT considered to be Producers and are, therefore, not Emmy® statuette eligible. Note: An appropriate plaque or certificate may be purchased to recognize the support or contributions of these individuals.
- Clients, Sponsors, Underwriters, Funders, Distributors.
- CEOs, Presidents, Vice Presidents, Company Owners, General Managers with no hands-on role in the video production.
- News Directors and Executive Producers with no hands-on role in the video production.
- Support staff or management with no hands-on role in the video production.
- People or organizations that are the subject of the video, including interviewees.
- People or organizations that provide resources (archives, photos, film, location access, etc.) for and/or during the production.
Maximum length allowed to produce an entry, which may be indicated in hours or the term Single Shift.
A traditional content format used in broadcast and cable television. In order to be more inclusive of content delivered via non-traditional means, the term Long Form Content is being used in most applications that were previously referred to as Programs. Certain categories (Documentary, Sports Program, Magazine Program) have retained the term where the traditional definition remains applicable.
Multiple episodes of a program with similar subject matter or an overall unifying theme.
One who receives a regional Emmy® Award. As regional entries are judged against a standard of excellence and not each other, there may be no recipient, one recipient or more than one recipient in a given category. Honorees in the National Emmy® Award contests are referred to as “winners” since only one entry is awarded in each category, with the exception of ties.
The document that sets forth the rules and available categories for each regional chapter’s Call For Entries. It also includes a section of Chapter Guidance and this Glossary of Terms.
A section of video content that could be part of a program or entry.
Multiple installments of similar and related content.
(also see: News Series and Program Series)
Video production that is no more than 10 minutes in length. These subcategories are the intended home for content that previously would have been submitted in Program Feature or Segment categories or sub-categories, as well as online content that meets other eligibility criteria.
This is defined as the time between when a work shift begins and ends (could be a normal work shift or an extended, breaking-news type of shift). This term is replacing the previously used “within 24 hours” as a way to separate longer term projects and productions from those completed within one work shift.
Crystal pillars presented to recipients of separate contests among high school and college students, with the intention to recognize outstanding student achievements in production. Rules and category options for Student Production Awards are outlined in the Regional Awards Manual.
Content conceived and created by full-time students at a university, college, technical/vocational school or high school. Student Productions may not include any professional services and faculty involvement can only be advisory.
Exact runtime of an entry video.
Person who completes the process of entry in a regional Emmy® Award contest. This person may also be an entrant but is not required to.
Content that is licensed for distribution on multiple broadcast or online outlets and available for consumption in multiple geographic locations.
The maximum amount of time allowed. A chapter call for entries will include two (2) types of time limits: Time Limit and Production Time Limit.
Time Limit: maximum length allowed for an entry, this varies among categories.
Production Time Limit: maximum length allowed to produce an entry, which may be indicated in hours or the term Single Shift.
When an entry includes previously produced material, it is only eligible if its use is significantly different from any previous use of the same material.