63rd ANNUAL
CHICAGO / MIDWEST REGIONAL
EMMY® AWARDS
2021
ELIGIBILITY PERIOD
JUNE 1, 2020 through MAY 31, 2021
ENTrY DEADLINE
FRIDAY, JUNE 18, 2021
Entries submitted between
JUNE 19 and JUNE 25
will be accepted with late fees
EMMY® NOMINATIONS
OCTOBER 2021 (TBA)
EMMY® AWARDS CEREMONY
NOVEMBER 2021 (TBA)
63rd ANNUAL
CHICAGO / MIDWEST REGIONAL
EMMY® AWARDS
2021
ELIGIBILITY PERIOD
JUNE 1, 2020 through MAY 31, 2021
ENTrY DEADLINE
FRIDAY, JUNE 18, 2021
Entries submitted between
JUNE 19 and JUNE 25
will be accepted with late fees
EMMY® NOMINATIONS
OCTOBER 2021 (TBA)
EMMY® AWARDS CEREMONY
NOVEMBER 2021 (TBA)
CALL FOR ENTRIES
HELP AND FAQs
For Help with determining categories:
What info should you gather before entering?
*These videos are helpful but some info does not pertain to our chapter rules.
MEMBERSHIP
STUDENT PRODUCTION AWARDS
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):
Illinois Markets
CHICAGO
PEORIA/BLOOMINGTON
ROCKFORD
INDIANA Market
SOUTH BEND/ELKHART
WISCONSIN Markets
GREEN BAY/Appleton
Madison
Milwaukee
Wausau/Rhinelander
UPDates for 2021
As in the past, according to the National rules, there is a maximum of 12 eligible names allowed an entry. Any name(s) added beyond 12 will require written authorization from the primary responsible entrant detailing the additional job title and responsibility. The chapter’s Rules Committee would then review and make a ruling accepting these additional entrants or not. If approved by the chapter, there will be a $30 fee for each name beyond 12 that is added to the entry. Please know we are among the few chapters left that charge a flat fee for entries and do not charge on a per name basis. Because of this, our chapter provides significant savings on the front end of the entry process in comparison to other chapters.
In order for National to allow our chapter to continue this practice, Chicago/Midwest entrants need to be very mindful of who and how many entrant names they are listing. Every person listed on an entry should be considered a KEY CONTRIBUTOR. Each person listed should be EQUAL in term of their award-worthiness. In the estimation of the entry submitter, the entry would not have been award-worthy without this person’s contributions. If the entry is nominated or is a recipient of an Emmy®, others, whose work was less significant, may order contributor certificates or plaques.
QUICK TIPS
You are responsible for the accuracy and correct spelling of all information submitted on entry form.
Changes/corrections after the entry deadline will incur a $30 reprocessing fee.
Please proofread the email confirmation of entry details. Ask other entrants listed to read it as well.
- We have LATE FEES now for entries submitted after June 18th.
- The National Awards Committee, which determines policy for all NATAS awards competitions, worked tirelessly throughout 2020 to review and rewrite the Regional Awards Manual which serves as the basis for all 19 chapters’ Call for Entries. The newly revised manual reflects our ever-changing industry and is forward looking with terms, rules and categories. All regional chapters adhere to the same standard contest. See the new glossary of terms starting on p. 20.
- We have added categories for News Specials (cat. 7), Sports Promotion (cat. 21-c), Sports Editing (cat. 28-d). Also, please see the new wording from National for categories 5 and 6.
- As last year, the FIRST entrant name listed on the entry needs to be a member to receive the member rate. The FIRST entrant name will also be the name used for the statuette band for the winning statuette usually given out on Emmy® night. Please note that online the “submitter” is different from the “entrant”. The submitter is simply the person who fills out the paperwork online on behalf of themselves and/or others. The submitter’s membership status does not determine entry prices. The entrants are those eligible in the category and those awarded.
1. BECOME A MEMBER
Renew your membership (or become a member if you're not already). This will enable you to receive the lower
"member" entry fee and it will save money overall. If you’ve been a member in the past, please renew rather than submit a new
membership form; just follow the links on the membership page for passwords or call the office for your password/membership ID.
Can you enter without becoming a member?
Yes, certainly, but the fees are higher. If you enter as a non-member, all your entries will be at the non-member
price.
2. FILL OUT YOUR ENTRY
Fill out and submit the online entry form for your entry. Be sure to list all eligible names for the entrants. Pay for
the entry at this time. You'll receive an email confirmation of your entry, with the Entry ID Number on the form.
3. UPLOAD YOUR VIDEO
Uploading on Emmy® Express is as easy as uploading a
video on YouTube! After you upload, you will be able to watch the uploaded video on Emmy®
Express and approve it for submission.
VIDEO FORMATS
PREFERRED FILE FORMAT
MP4 USING H.264 VIDEO CODEC AND AAC AUDIO CODEC
For best quality, encode your video at its original size.
Sizes 1920x1080 or 1280x720 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.
ADDITIONAL SUPPORT
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).
VIDEO UPLOAD STEP BY STEP
PREPARING YOUR UPLOAD
Ensure that you have a video file in a format that can be uploaded.
· Videos must be uploaded through Emmy® Express.
· The browser window must remain open while the file is being uploaded.
SUPPORTED FILE FORMATS
Once the file has been uploaded, processing will begin.
· If you don't want to wait, you may close the browser window. The video will be processed in the background.
· NOTE: If you close the browser window, you must come back to approve the video upload.
APPROVAL
After upload and processing, you must double check the video and approve the upload.
· If you close the browser window during processing, you must come back later to approve it.
Categories 1 — 22:
- Categories 01 — 08 for News
- Categories 09a — 09f are for Sports Programs
- Categories 10 — 19 are for Programming
- Categories 20 — 22 are for Announcements (Promos, PSAs, Commercials)
Entries may be submitted by stations, studios, production companies, and/or any other organization
associated with the production.
Producers should be the primary entrants for Categories 1 to 22.
Definition of Producer — The producer(s) is defined as the person(s) most responsible for a program,
from conception to execution. This can include research, planning, field producing, field directing, writing, shot-sheeting, associate
producing, co-producing and supervising the edit. The intent is to present the award to the person directly involved in creating the
program.
For a News Director, Executive Producer, Senior Producer or Supervising Producer to be eligible, that
individual must have been involved in the creative effort, not merely the one who approved the creative enterprise. Entrants may be
required to provide documentation, including proof of performance affidavits or verified production credits, if deemed necessary by
the Emmy® Judging and Rules Committee.
Categories 23 — 30:
Categories 23 — 30 are designed to recognize craft achievements on and off camera. Each
person may submit a single achievement or a composite, which he or she believes to be outstanding in a specific area of expertise.
An individual with accomplishments in more than one area of talent or craft may submit an entry in each area. Producers may not be
entered in these categories since they are eligible in the other program categories, unless they served in a craft position as well for
the same content.
See the "Double-Dipping" section below under "Standard Clauses" for more information. To avoid any
confusion, the basic formula for "double-dipping" is the following: An individual entrant can only been recognized once for the same
job function, utilizing the same program content. Craft persons, like writers, photographers, editors, etc., are allowed to enter in
programming categories if they directly contributed to the content of the program or segment, and have the permission of the
primary producer. If a craft person does enter as a producer in a program category, they may enter the same content again in their
respective craft category.
2020 — 2021 STANDARD CLAUSES AND GENERAL RULES
To recognize outstanding achievements in television and allied media by conferring annual awards of merit in the Chapter’s designated award region within the following Designated Market Areas (DMAs): Illinois Markets: Chicago, Peoria-Bloomington and Rockford; Indiana Market: South Bend-Elkhart; Wisconsin Markets: Green Bay-Appleton, Madison, Milwaukee, and Wausau-Rhinelander. 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 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 its 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.
- Materials provided by a news service, cooperative news association or similar source must be treated as previously produced material unless it was originally intended for first release in the regional awards eligibility area to which it was submitted with on-site supervision by the entrant.
- 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.
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-broadcast changes except as noted in the category descriptions.
The following programming is not eligible:
- Pornographic, violent, defamatory or offensive content.
- Previously aired programs, series or related craft content which aired and met eligibility requirements during a previous award year or another Emmy® competition.
- Program length commercials or infomercials.
- Closed circuit content or internal communications.
- Content from telethons, pledge breaks and/or programs with a unique call to action aired for the purposes of raising money for political parties, charities or other related causes.
- 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 12 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 Administration and the Awards Committee deem 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, entrants would have the option of dropping out of the competition and receiving a refund of their entry fees.
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 specified category 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 entry 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.
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.
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 show 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.
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 single entry, you may not submit any individual segments from the franchise elsewhere.
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 single 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.
Example:
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 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.
Example:
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 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 10 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 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, airdates 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 copyright 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.
Spanish-language entries will be judged by a panel of Spanish-language media professionals who are bilingual or Spanish proficient.
Programs in languages other than English or Spanish may also be entered; however, judging of these entries in their native language is subject to the availability of qualified, peer judges who speak the language of the entry. Therefore, NATAS requires that these entrants submit their entries with English subtitles or with English on a second audio channel.
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 eliminated.
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.
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.
JUDGING
Judging CRITERIA AND TABULATION
PROGRAM ENTRIES ARE JUDGED ON
3 CRITERIA:
CONTENT
CREATIVITY
EXECUTION
CRAFT ENTRIES ARE JUDGED ON
2 CRITERIA:
CREATIVITY
EXECUTION
MASTER LIST
The Emmy® Judging and Rules Committee is vested with the authority to determine the eligibility of entries and to change any entry’s category if improperly submitted. Such decisions are final. To that end, the Emmy® Judging and Rules Committee will attempt to have a master list of entries (PDF document) available for review in the beginning of September. Please proof your entries for typos to avoid reprinting and/or re-engraving.
Voting is done by ballot with scores tabulated by the accounting firm of Wipfli, LLP.
JUDGING & RULES COMMITTEE
Diana Borri
Co-Chair
Jamie Caesar
Co-Chair
Pablo Alfaro
Chris Cangilla
Sunmee Choi
Melissa Forman
Lee Hood
Yolanda Joe
Steve Novak
Fees
ENTRY FEES
The FIRST entrant name needs to be a member to receive the member rate
The FIRST entrant name will also be the name used for the statuette band for the winning statuette given out on Emmy® night. Please note online that the “submitter” is different from the “entrants” listed. The submitter’s membership status does not determine entry prices.
MEMBER RATE
NON-MEMBER**
Standard Fees: for entries submitted before Friday, June 18th
Program
Categories
1 — 22
$125
$220
Craft
Categories
23 — 30
$95
$190
Late fees: for entries submitted from June 19th to June 25th
Program
Categories
1 — 22
$155
$250
Craft
Categories
23 — 30
$125
$220
** The first entrant’s membership must be paid through 3/31/21.
If you do not know your membership status, check on Emmy® Express to confirm if your membership is current or call the Chapter office at 312-369-8600 or email rcowing@emmyonline.tv.
Please become a member before you start the online entry process. Once you join, all entries (with your name listed as the first entrant) will come up at the member price. Non-member entries do not include a year’s membership. If you enter as a non-member, all your entries will be at the non-member price. To receive the member price, you must renew or become a member separately.
FEES FOR CHANGES AND MISTAKES
Only those names listed on the official entry forms are eligible to receive awards. Changes or corrections to the official entry form are allowed in some circumstances but are not encouraged. Fees will be charged for each change made to an entry as follows:
Reprocessing Fee
$30
Entries that are missing information, list ineligible entrants, have incorrect fees, will be subject to a $30 reprocessing fee or may be subject to disqualification from the Chicago/Midwest Emmy Awards. The original entry fee will not be returned.
Changes after the Nominations Party
$60
Changes made after Nominations Party (changes must be made in the 10 days following the Nominations party): $60 per change.
The Chicago/Midwest Chapter will permit NO changes in the listing of entrants after 10 days following the Nominations party and after the announcement of recipients. There are no exceptions to this rule.
PAYMENT METHODS
Accepted CREDIT CARDS
VISA
MASTERCARD
AMEX
DISCOVER
CHECK OR MONEY ORDER
If paying by check or money order, mail payment to our office by June 18th 2021.
The NATAS office address is:
NATAS, Chicago/Midwest Chapter
c/o Columbia College Chicago, Communication Dept.
33 East Ida B. Wells Drive, Ste. 535
Chicago, IL 60605
Payment DEADLINE
All payments must be made by
June 18th 2021, at 11:59 p.m.
EMMY® CATEGORIES
CATEGORIES 01 — 08
· NEWSCAST — MORNING
Larger Markets
· NEWSCAST — MORNING
Smaller Markets
· NEWSCAST — EVENING
Larger Markets
· NEWSCAST — EVENING
Smaller Markets
· CONTINUING COVERAGE
· INVESTIGATIVE REPORT
Single Report
· INVESTIGATIVE REPORT
Multiple Reports
· DAILY NEWS REPORT
A "Single Shift" Category
· HARD NEWS REPORT
A "News No Time Limit" Category
· NEWS SPECIALS
· ARTS / ENTERTAINMENT
News Feature or Series
· BUSINESS / CONSUMER
News Feature or Series
· CRIME NEWS
News Feature or Series
· EDUCATION / SCHOOLS
News Feature or Series
· ENVIRONMENT / SCIENCE
News Feature or Series
· HEALTH / MEDICAL
News Feature or Series
· HUMAN INTEREST
News Feature or Series
· POLITICS / GOVERNMENT
News Feature or Series
· RELIGION
News Feature or Series
· SPORTS
News Feature or Series
· WEATHER
News Feature or Series
· MILITARY
News Feature or Series
· SOCIETAL CONCERNS
News Feature or Series
CATEGORIES 09A — 09F
· SPORTS
Short Form Segment
· SPORTS PROGRAMS / SERIES
Live
· SPORTS PROGRAMS / SERIES
Post-Produced or Edited
· LIVE SPORTING EVENT / GAME
Single Game / Series
· SPORTS DOCUMENTARY
CATEGORIES 10 — 19
· DOCUMENTARY
Cultural
· DOCUMENTARY
Historical
· DOCUMENTARY
Topical
· INFORMATIONAL / INSTRUCTIONAL
Short Form or Long Form Content
· INTERVIEW /DISCUSSION
Short Form or Long Form Content
· MAGAZINE PROGRAM
Series
· MAGAZINE PROGRAM
Single Program
· PUBLIC AFFAIRS PROGRAM
Series
· PUBLIC AFFAIRS PROGRAM
Single Program
· SPECIAL EVENT COVERAGE
Live / Edited
· ARTS / ENTERTAINMENT
Long Form Content
· ARTS / ENTERTAINMENT
Short Form Content
· CHILDREN / YOUTH / TEEN
Short Form or Long Form Content
· HUMAN INTEREST
Long Form Content
· HUMAN INTEREST
Short Form Content
· LIFESTYLE
Short Form or Long Form Content
CATEGORIES 20 — 22
· PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT
Single Spot / Campaign
· NEWS PROMOTION
Single Spot / Campaign
· PROGRAM PROMOTION
Single Spot / Campaign
· SPORTS PROMOTION
Single Spot / Campaign
· COMMERCIAL PROGRAM
Single Spot
· COMMERCIAL PROGRAM
Campaign
CATEGORIES 23 — 30
· ANCHOR
News
· ANCHOR
Weather
· ANCHOR / REPORTER / PLAY BY PLAY / ANALYST
Sports
· HOST / MODERATOR / CORRESPONDENT
· REPORTER
Daily News
· REPORTER
Investigative
· REPORTER
Transportation / Traffic
· GRAPHICS
Graphic Arts / Art Direction / Set Design
· AUDIO
Live / Recorded
· LIGHTING
· DIRECTOR
Live or Recorded Live / Newscast / Sports
· EDITOR
News
· EDITOR
Long Form Content
· EDITOR
Short Forms (Promotions / PSAs / Commercials)
· EDITOR
Sports
· PHOTOGRAPHER
News
· PHOTOGRAPHER
Long Form Content
· PHOTOGRAPHER
Sports
· WRITER
News
· WRITER
Long Form Content
· WRITER
Short Form Content
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.
NEWSCASTS
01B
Newscast - Morning
Smaller Markets (51+)
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 that exceed the 30 minute category time limit entrant may submit up to 3
excerpts.
Chapter Note: The entry should be one newscast. Eligible to enter: Anchors,
Reporters, Assignment Editors, Producers, Photographers, Writers, Editors, and Directors.
02B
Newscast - Evening
Smaller Markets (51+)
Time limit: 30 minutes
For excellence in a regularly scheduled morning 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 that exceed the 30 minute category time limit entrant may submit up to 3
excerpts.
Chapter Notes: The entry should be one newscast. Eligible to enter:
Anchors, Reporters, Assignment Editors, Producers, Photographers, Writers, Editors, and Directors.
NEWS GATHERING
03
Continuing Coverage
Time limit: 30 minutes
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. Eligible to enter: Anchors, Reporters, Assignment Editors, Producers,
Photographers, Writers, Editors, and Directors.
04B
Investigative Report
Multiple Reports
Time limit: 30 minutes
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. Series entries must include a minimum of two (2) reports.
Chapter Note: Eligible to enter: Reporter/Producer.
05
DAILY NEWS REPORT
(A "Single Shift" Category) See definitions for more info
Time limit: 10 minutes
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.
Chapter Note: Eligible to Enter: Reporter/Producer.
06
HARD NEWS REPORT
(A "News No Time Limit" Category)
Time limit: 10 minutes
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.
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.
Chapter Note: Eligible to Enter: Reporter/Producer.
07
NEWS SPECIAL
Time limit: 60 minutes
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.
Chapter Note: Eligible to Enter: Producer.
NEWS SPECIALTY
Producers should be the primary entrants for Specialty Content categories. Qualified others may be eligible if their
contributions are significant to the entry’s award-worthiness.
News content is only eligible in the appropriate news subcategories.
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.
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.
Chapter Note: Topic covered must not be considered a news investigative report.
News content is only eligible in the appropriate news subcategories.
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.
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.
Chapter Note: Topic covered must not be considered a news investigative report.
Eligible to Enter: Reporter/Producer.
08A
Arts/Entertainment News
Feature time limit: 10 minutes
Series time limit: 15 minutes
Series time limit: 15 minutes
For excellence in coverage of general entertainment, variety, or visual and performing arts.
08B
Business/Consumer News
Feature time limit: 10 minutes
Series time limit: 15 minutes
Series time limit: 15 minutes
For excellence in coverage of business, finance, consumer affairs or economic topics.
08C
Crime News
Feature time limit: 10 minutes
Series time limit: 15 minutes
Series time limit: 15 minutes
For excellence in coverage of crimes or other violations of the law.
08D
Education/Schools News
Feature time limit: 10 minutes
Series time limit: 15 minutes
Series time limit: 15 minutes
For excellence in coverage of schools, teaching or education.
08E
Environment/Science News
Feature time limit: 10 minutes
Series time limit: 15 minutes
Series time limit: 15 minutes
For excellence in news or journalistic coverage of environmental impact issues, science or related
topics.
08F
Health/Medical News
Feature time limit: 10 minutes
Series time limit: 15 minutes
Series time limit: 15 minutes
For excellence in news or journalistic coverage of health or medical related topics.
08G
Human Interest News
Feature time limit: 10 minutes
Series time limit: 15 minutes
Series time limit: 15 minutes
For excellence in coverage of stories that appeal to the human spirit.
08H
Politics/Government News
Feature time limit: 10 minutes
Series time limit: 15 minutes
Series time limit: 15 minutes
For excellence in coverage of political, civil, government issues or subject matter.
08I
Religion News
Feature time limit: 10 minutes
Series time limit: 15 minutes
Series time limit: 15 minutes
For excellence in coverage of subject matter of a religious and/or spiritual nature.
08J
Sports News
Feature time limit: 10 minutes
Series time limit: 15 minutes
Series time limit: 15 minutes
For excellence in coverage of sports in general, sports-related topics or sports news.
08K
Weather News
Feature time limit: 10 minutes
Series time limit: 15 minutes
Series time limit: 15 minutes
For excellence in coverage of weather in general, weather related topics or subject matter within
a news program.
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.
For Short Form Content, the original video must not exceed 10 minutes.
For Program entries, the original video must be longer than 10 minutes and submission length may not exceed 30 minutes (exception: Sports Documentary). No more than three (3) excerpts may be included to bring longer content to the 30-minute time limit (exceptions: Sports - One-Time Special and Sporting Event/Game Live Broadcast.) Excerpts must be presented in original, chronological order.
Series entries are eligible and must include a minimum of two (2) but no more than five (5) separate segments from the series.
09A
Sports
Short Form Content
Time limit: 10 minutes
For excellence in content about sports, athletes, coaches and other related topics.
Chapter Note: Eligible to Enter: Producer. For Short Form Content, the original video
must not exceed 10 minutes.
09B
Sports Program/Series
Live
Time limit: 30 minutes
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: Eligible to Enter: Producer.
09C
Sports Program/Series
Post-Produced or Edited
Time limit: 30 minutes
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: Eligible to Enter: Producer.
09D
Sports One-Time Special
Time limit: 30 minutes
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 Kentucky Derby, Boston Marathon, Hockey Day Minnesota or High School Football Championship Preview.
Chapter Note: Eligible to Enter: Producer.
09E
Live Sporting Event/Game
Single Game/Series
Time limit: 30 minutes
For excellence in production of a single program or series, (live or recorded live) sporting event or
game.
A composite is required and should include examples of: Show Open, Graphics Package, Use of Replays, Inserted Pre-
Produced Segments, Use of Statistical or Other Prepared Material, Highlights, Standard Coverage (e.g. Routine Innings or Downs)
and any additional material at entrant’s discretion. Series entries must have something that makes it a series (an actual baseball
series, playoff series, season series between teams, etc.) Entry may include no more than eight (8) excerpts to bring the entry down
to the 30-minute time limit.
Chapter Note: Eligible to Enter: Producer.
PROGRAM CONTENT
Producers should be the primary entrants for Program 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 or long-form series entries, the entry must include excerpts from at least two (2) episodes from the series.
For Short Form Content entries, the original video and submission length must not exceed 10 minutes.
10C
Documentary
Topical
Time limit: 60 minutes
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: Eligible to Enter: Producer.
11
Informational / Instructional
Short Form or Long Form Content
Time limit: 30 minutes
For excellence in program content whose purpose is to be instructional; to teach formally or
informally about a subject.
Chapter Note: Eligible to Enter: Producer.
12
Interview / Discussion
Short Form or Long Form Content
Time limit: 30 minutes
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.
Chapter Note: Eligible to Enter: Producer.
13A
Magazine Program
Series
Time limit: 30 minutes
For excellence in a program or series consisting of various stories of regional interest designed to
entertain and inform.
Chapter Note: Eligible to Enter: Producer.
13B
Magazine Program
Single Program
Time limit: 30 minutes
For excellence in a program or series consisting of various stories of regional interest designed to
entertain and inform.
Chapter Note: Eligible to Enter: Producer.
14A
Public Affairs Program
Series
Time limit: 30 minutes
For excellence in a program, series, or short content that focuses on current community, social or
political issues that are of general public interest or concern.
Chapter Note: Eligible to Enter: Producer.
14B
Public Affairs Program
Single Program
Time limit: 30 minutes
For excellence in a program, series, or short content that focuses on current community, social or
political issues that are of general public interest or concern.
Chapter Note: Eligible to Enter: Producer.
15
Special Event Coverage
Live / Edited
Time limit: 30 minutes
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: Eligible to Enter: Producer.
16A
Arts / Entertainment
Long Form Content
Time limit: 30 minutes
For excellence in a program, special, or series on general entertainment, variety, or visual and
performing arts.
Chapter Note: Eligible to Enter: Producer.
16B
Arts / Entertainment
Short Form Content
Time limit: up to 10 minutes
For excellence in a feature or segment from a program or series covers general entertainment,
variety, or visual and performing arts.
Chapter Note: For Short Form Content, the original video must not
exceed 10 minutes.
Chapter Note: Eligible to Enter: Producer.
17
Children/Youth/Teen (19 and under)
Short Form or Long Form Content
Time limit: 30 minutes
For excellence in content that is of interest and value to a target audience 19 years of age or
younger.
Chapter Note: Eligible to Enter: Producer.
18A
Human Interest
Long Form Content
Time limit: 30 minutes
For excellence in content that appeals to the human spirit.
Chapter Note: Eligible to Enter: Producer.
18B
Human Interest
Short Form Content
Time limit: up to 10 minutes
For excellence in content that appeals to the human spirit.
Chapter Note: For Short Form Content, the original video must not
exceed 10 minutes.
Chapter Note: Eligible to Enter: Producer.
19
Lifestyle
Short Form or Long Form Content
Time limit: 30 minutes
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: Eligible to Enter: Producer.
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. 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: If a campaign is entered, no spots from that same campaign may be submitted in a single-spot category even if spot is not included in composite submitted of campaign.
Chapter Notes: If a campaign is entered, no spots from that same campaign may be submitted in a single-spot category even if spot is not included in composite submitted of campaign.
20
Public Service Announcement (PSAs)
Single Spot / Campaign
Spots may be 5 seconds to
2 minutes in length
2 minutes in length
For excellence in announcements that effectively focus interest in and marshal support for worthy
community or area causes.
If a campaign entered, a maximum of three spots may be included which are edited together for a single video upload.
Chapter Note: Eligible to Enter: Producer.
21A
News Promotion
Single Spot / Campaign
Spots may be 5 seconds to
2 minutes in length
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: Eligible to Enter: Producer.
21B
Program Promotion
Single Spot / Campaign
Spots may be 5 seconds to
2 minutes in length
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 Notes: This category is for promotional announcements related to
television/cable programs, not corporate self-promotion. Eligible to Enter: Producer.
21C
Sports Promotion
Single Spot / Campaign
Spots may be 5 seconds to
2 minutes in length
2 minutes in length
Intended for promos produced for content that would be entered in the Sports Content section
with the exception of Sports Story - News.
Chapter Note: Eligible to Enter: Producer.
22B
Commercial Program
Campaign
Spots may be 5 seconds to
2 minutes in length
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: Eligible to Enter: Producer.
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 Notes: For craft entries, please include your name in your entry's title.
Examples: “John Smith: Composite” or “John Smith: Tornado Watch.” If fewer than 3 entries, categories and/or sub-categories may be dropped. 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."
ON-AIR ACHIEVEMENT
For the Anchor categories only (23a-23c): A segment is an excerpt from a news
program (newscast, news special, breaking news, etc.) with the material that doesn’t include the entrant edited out. An entry may
include up to five segments. Each segment can include material from only ONE news 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: Category not for feature or beat reporters.
OFF-AIR ACHIEVEMENT
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: Category not for feature or beat reporters.
PL Track is Preferred.
For content longer than 10 minutes.
For content under 10 minutes.
Chapter Note: Category for Promos, PSAs, Commercials, etc.
For content longer than 10 minutes.
Chapter Note: Scripts required. You will be able attach
scripts to your entry online.
For content longer than 10 minutes.
Chapter Note: Scripts required. You will be able attach
scripts to your entry online.
For content under 10 minutes.
Chapter Note: Category for Promos, PSAs, Commercials, etc.
Chapter Note: Scripts required. You will be able attach
scripts to your entry online.
GLOSSARY OF TERMS
Short form content that includes multiple installments, all of which fit under a unifying theme.
Examples: “Tom’s Financial Tips” that air every Wednesday night on a local newscast, “Reports from the Border” that post on a local news website over a 6-month period.
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 Call for Entries, determining content and entrant eligibility and reviewing judges’ challenges (among other duties.).
Programs or other content that consist of previously aired material in the form of a “year in review” special or a collection of Branded Content Series pieces. These are NOT eligible for Regional Emmy® Awards contents.
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 are 1 – 22. (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 23-30. (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.
The process of getting video content from a producer to a viewer. This may include being broadcast on a television or cable station, streamed on a website or app, posted on a company website or social media account.
Any entry submitted in its entirety in more than one content category or instance of any 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.
A continuous segment or section from longer content, excerpts are used to bring longer content to the specified category 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.
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.
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. All entrants listed should be equal in terms of award-worthiness.
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, Community Service, Sports 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.
As outlined in the NATAS bylaws, this group of people administers the policy and structure of the National and Regional Emmy® Awards process. Its membership consists of representatives from each of the National Awards constituencies as well as regional/chapter reps.
As outlined in the NATAS bylaws, this group of people administers the policy and structure of the National and Regional Emmy® Awards process. Its membership consists of representatives from each of the National Awards constituencies as well as regional/chapter reps.
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.
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).
(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 between which 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. A story assigned one day but researched, scheduled, and shot over another day or multiple days, should be submitted in a “no time limit” category.
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: Entry Time Limit and Production Time Limit.
Entry 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.
COLLEGE
CALL FOR ENTRIES
ENTRY DEADLINE
Friday, June 18 2021
Eligibility Period
June 1, 2020 - May 31, 2021
NOMINATIONS PARTY
OCTOBER 2021
AWARDS CEREMONY
NOVEMBER 2021
STANDARD RULES
To recognize outstanding achievements in television and allied media by conferring annual awards of merit in the Chapter’s designated award region within the following Designated Market Areas (DMAs):
ILLINOIS MARKET:
CHICAGO
PEORIA/BLOOMINGTON
ROCKFORD
CHICAGO
PEORIA/BLOOMINGTON
ROCKFORD
INDIANA MARKET:
SOUTH BEND / ELKHART
SOUTH BEND / ELKHART
WISCONSIN MARKETS:
GREEN BAY / APPLETON
MADISON
MILWAUKEE
WAUSAU / RHINELANDER
GREEN BAY / APPLETON
MADISON
MILWAUKEE
WAUSAU / RHINELANDER
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
Programs or program segments conceived, produced and executed by students at a university, college or technical/vocational school within the Chapter’s designated award area are eligible for student award consideration. Returning students who previously worked as professionals are not eligible. No professional services may have been employed in the production of the entry. Faculty involvement can only be advisory.
Students may enter work that was produced as a class assignment, extra-curricular assignment or in conjunction with their academic experience. Students who perform professional work may enter their work in our professional awards competition, provided they meet all eligibility requirements. No entry may be submitted to more than one Chapter’s awards. The entry does not need to have been broadcast, cablecast or webcast to be eligible.
Submitted programs must have been made during the period of June 1, 2020 to May 31, 2021.
The College or University submitting must be located within the ADI (area of dominant influence) of the television markets within the Chicago/Midwest chapter jurisdiction. The television markets that the Chicago/Midwest Chapter covers are:
ILLINOIS MARKET:
CHICAGO
PEORIA/BLOOMINGTON
ROCKFORD
CHICAGO
PEORIA/BLOOMINGTON
ROCKFORD
INDIANA MARKET:
SOUTH BEND / ELKHART
SOUTH BEND / ELKHART
WISCONSIN MARKETS:
GREEN BAY / APPLETON
MADISON
MILWAUKEE
WAUSAU / RHINELANDER
GREEN BAY / APPLETON
MADISON
MILWAUKEE
WAUSAU / RHINELANDER
Entry and payment must be submitted online at chicagoemmyonline.org with the EMMY® EXPRESS system. The entry video is to be uploaded online as well (all directions online). Judging will also be done online. Entry forms can be printed out once you complete the entry process online. The email confirmation you receive should have a link listed for the printing of the entry form. We recommend that you print a copy of the entry form for your own records.
Administrative fee per entry: $40 for NATAS student members and $50 for student non-members. The FIRST entrant name listed on the entry needs to be a member to receive the member rate. The membership status of the “submitter” or professor/teacher is not applicable.
The validation form must be filled out by the faculty advisor.
VALIDATION FORM
All entry forms, online credit card payment, and video uploading must be completed by 6/18/2021. Visa, Master Card, American Express, and Discover are accepted. If paying by check or money order, payment should be sent to the TV Academy office with a copy of your entry form.
Our address is:
NATAS, Chicago/Midwest Chapter
c/o Columbia College, Communication Dept
33 East Ida B. Wells Drive, Ste. 535
Chicago, IL 60605
c/o Columbia College, Communication Dept
33 East Ida B. Wells Drive, Ste. 535
Chicago, IL 60605
Judging programs or segment entries are on a scale of 1 to 10 on each of three criteria: Content, Creativity and Execution for program entries; and two criteria: Creativity and Execution for craft entries. Judging panels are made up of professional judges.
There is no limit to the number of entries a school may submit. 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. Judging of these entries is subject to the availability of qualified judges who speak the language of the entry. We recommend that entrants in languages other than English or Spanish submit an English-language translation of the narration track.
At least two-thirds of an entry must consist of original material, unless previously produced material has been given some unique and creative treatment. Entrants must specifically identify and give credit to all non-original material included in the entry. This includes music use.
College and University students may refer to the fact that they are recipients of a NATAS Student Achievement Award but may not use the Emmy® name or replica of the Emmy® figure in any form of commercial advertising or promotion.
Students responsible for the production will each receive a certificate. Certificates will be provided for students who are nominated and/or win. The winning crystal pillar is given to the school directly. Individual winning students may order a duplicate of the pillar after the Awards ceremony.
For outstanding achievement in a newscast. Post edits are not permitted except for the
removal of breaks. Entry will be judged on overall content, presentation, enterprise, writing, format, teases, etc.
Time Limit: 30 minutes
For outstanding reporting achievement in a presentation of timely news, information and
current events. Entry should be one story or a story series (the series should cover the same issues and up to 3 examples can only
be included).
Composites are not allowed and should be entered under Cat.
S-7 Talent.
Entries may contain spot news coverage, investigations and feature stories on any
newsworthy subject. Coverage of controversial issues is welcome. Entries will be judged on the basis of editorial content and
pictorial coverage, which demonstrates awareness of broadcast journalistic standards including accuracy and fairness. Judges will
particularly look for well-organized material paying close attention to clearly written narration and appropriate sound bites.
Preference will be given to individual pieces demonstrating reporting and field production. In-studio set-up or anchor link work will
not be considered as an asset unless it materially contributes to the editorial content of the individual report.
Time Limit: 10 minutes
For outstanding reporting achievement in a presentation of content devoted to cultural or
artistic significance. Entry should be one story or a story series (the series should cover the same issues and up to 3 examples can
only be included).
Composites are not allowed and should be entered under Cat.
S-7 Talent.
Time Limit: 10 minutes
For outstanding achievement in a presentation of a short-form treatment of a single fictional
subject. Dramatizations or student originated soap operas or plays are permitted. Content, creativity and execution will be important
elements in judging the entries. Judges will particularly look for well-organized material, paying close attention to clearly written
narration and appropriate sound bites.
Time Limit: 10 minutes
If the original presentation is longer than 10 minutes, entrants are permitted to make
three lifts to bring the entry to time.
For outstanding achievement in a presentation of a short-form treatment of a single non-
fiction subject. Subject matter can include (but is not limited to) investigations, examinations of social issues, personal relationships,
sports lifestyles, music, performing arts, entertainment, fashion and historical retrospectives. Content creativity and execution will
be important elements in judging the entries. Judges will particularly look for well-organized material, paying close attention to
clearly written narration and appropriate sound bites.
Time Limit: 10 minutes
If the original presentation is longer than 10 minutes, entrants are permitted to make
three lifts to bring the entry to time.
For outstanding achievement in a presentation of sports news and information. In-studio
set-up or anchor link work will not be considered as an asset unless it materially contributes to the editorial content of the
presentation. Judges will particularly look for well-organized material, paying close attention to clearly written narration and
appropriate sound bites.
Time Limit: 10 minutes
For outstanding achievement in announcements that effectively focus interest in and
marshal support for worthy community or area causes. Spots may be 5-seconds to 2 minutes in length. The category is also for
outstanding achievement in commercial production advertising a product, business or service that is conceived, written, created and
produced for a class/school project.
Spots may be 5-seconds to 5-minutes in length
For outstanding achievement in on-camera talent demonstrating the skills of one or more
individuals in the areas of news anchoring, reporting, host/moderator, sports play-by-play, analyst, etc. Entries may contain a single
example of the craft, or a composite of material as originally transmitted (5 examples allowed).
Time Limit: 10 minutes
1. BECOME A MEMBER
Renew your membership (or become a member if you're not already). This will enable you to receive the lower
"member" entry fee and it will save money overall. If you’ve been a member in the past, please renew rather than submit a new
membership form; just follow the links on the membership page for passwords or call the office for your password/membership ID.
Can you enter without becoming a member?
Yes, certainly, but the fees are higher. If you enter as a non-member, all your entries will be at the non-member
price.
2. FILL OUT YOUR ENTRY
Fill out and submit the online entry form for your entry. Be sure to list all eligible names for the entrants. Pay for
the entry at this time. You'll receive an email confirmation of your entry, with the Entry ID Number on the form.
3. UPLOAD YOUR VIDEO
Uploading on Emmy® Express is as easy as uploading a
video on YouTube! After you upload, you will be able to watch the uploaded video on Emmy®
Express and approve it for submission.
VIDEO FORMATS
PREFERRED FILE FORMAT
MP4 USING H.264 VIDEO CODEC AND AAC AUDIO CODEC
For best quality, encode your video at its original size.
Sizes 1920x1080 or 1280x720 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.
ADDITIONAL SUPPORT
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).
VIDEO UPLOAD STEP BY STEP
PREPARING YOUR UPLOAD
Ensure that you have a video file in a format that can be uploaded.
· Videos must be uploaded through Emmy® Express.
· The browser window must remain open while the file is being uploaded.
SUPPORTED FILE FORMATS
Once the file has been uploaded, processing will begin.
· If you don't want to wait, you may close the browser window. The video will be processed in the background.
· NOTE: If you close the browser window, you must come back to approve the video upload.
APPROVAL
After upload and processing, you must double check the video and approve the upload.
· If you close the browser window during processing, you must come back later to approve it.