Jerry Micco grew up in New Castle, Pa., but never worked in Pennsylvania until March 15, when he began his new job at the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, where he'll lead a staff of 33. Before moving to Pittsburgh, Micco spent just under seven years at the Contra Costa (Calif.) Times.

As the APSE's first vice president, Micco oversaw the recent contest and judging in Kissimmee, Fla., where 95 editors spent four days judging writing and section entries.

This year's contest included the addition of an explanatory writing category and the requirement that columnists submit five entries instead of three.

In another change, judges pared down the writing finalists to 10, then passed them onto another group, where each judge ranked the stories on a scale of 1 to 10. Micco tallied the results and said he expected to release the top five and honorable mentions by the end of March.

How did the new system for writing entries work this year?

It went well. It's a good way to get more sets of eyes on 10 finalists.

What's the biggest misperception people have about the section contest?

I don't think there are any. People take judging very seriously. There are very good sections, and it's very difficult. ... What you wind up with is your best 13, and you're looking at five or six papers for the final spots.

What are the benefits of judging?

It's a great place to get ideas and exchange ideas with other editors. You're in a room with them for two to three days, and talking among yourselves, "Boy, I could do something similar." That has always been the advantage of judging.

Which sport has the best athletes?

I'm a big fan of hockey and football, but I think basketball has the best athletes. ... Second would be downhill skiing. They're tremendous athletes and incredibly strong people.

What's your favorite sport?

Football.

What's your favorite movie?

The Godfather.

What TV show do you wish had never been canceled?

Seinfeld. Or Mary Tyler Moore.

What was your first job?

Sports writer in Manassas, Va.