The STF31 Sector Three Annual Communications Awards are awards listed below that are awarded on an annual basis for accomplishments in the communications arena throughout the previous calendar year. These awards are awarded to all members of a chapter who were responsible for production of the newsletter/publication/website during the period covered by the award.
STF31 SECTOR THREE ANNUAL COMMUNICATIONS AWARDS
 | NEWSLETTER OF THE YEAR |
| Criteria: | |
 | The Newsletter of the Year presented to the STF31 Sector chapter newsletter that best demonstrates key aspects of journalistic quality. Regularity of publication, effectiveness and attractiveness of design and layout, and quality and relevance of content are among the aspects considered. Either print or electronic newsletters are eligible for this award. There are no longer separate awards for print and electronic newsletters. To be considered for this award, please send a minimum of two (2) different issues (if you would like to send more, please feel free to) to the Task Force 31 Communications Officer at usspawlowskico@gmail.com with “Sector Newsletter Award” in the subject line. If you are wishing to send a printed copy, please contact him at his e-mail address and he will send his mailing address to you. The recipient of this award shall be decided by the Sector Awards Committee. There are four categories for this award: – Newsletter of the Year (Best overall newsletter from the categories listed below) – Best Monthly Newsletter – Best Bi-monthly Newsletter – Best Quarterly Newsletter |
| Ribbon Description: | |
 | Black |
 | WEBSITE OF THE YEAR |
| Criteria: | |
 | The Website of the Year Award will be issued for the best overall Website. In order for web pages to be considered for the Sector Website of the Year, the web page link has to be on the STF31 website by December 31st before the judging starts on January 1st to be considered for the previous year award. Each chapter web master is responsible for making sure his/her URL link is correct wherever listed prior to December 31. Only sites about a STF31 sector member, chapter or other STF31 related item will be considered. Any other topic, even if done by a sector member, will be ineligible. The website must be authored or designed by a STF31 member, though they may use any commercial or pre-existing software or resources available. There are two categories for this award: – Sector Chapter Website – Sector Department Website While the specific method of judging will be left up to the judges, the following criteria will be considered in selecting the winning web sites: Technical Correctness: any broken links or bad spelling Advanced Features: use of Java, JavaScript, streaming media, plug-ins etc. Compatibility: can you use different web browsers or operating systems Multimedia Appeal: effective use of graphics and web content Efficiency: quick downloading and appropriate image formats Design: intuitive interface and organization Content: provides appropriate information Freshness: any recent updates Overall Appeal You are encouraged to update your web sites before judging begins. Consult the STF31 website for additional information. Sector winners will be forwarded to STF31 annual competition. |
| Ribbon Description: | |
 | Dark Grey |
 | PUBLICATION OF THE YEAR |
| Criteria: | |
 | This is for publications other than newsletters and the award has two categories: – Chapter Publication (Chapter or Chapter Department Manual) – Sector Publication (Sector HQ or Sector Departments Manuals) |
| Ribbon Description: | |
 | Light Grey |