For a distinguished example of explanatory reporting that illuminates a significant and complex subject, demonstrating mastery of the subject, lucid writing and clear presentation, Five thousand dollars ($5,000).

Awarded to Eric Newhouse of Great Falls (Mont.) Tribune for his vivid examination of alcohol abuse and the problems it creates in the community.

Columbia University President George Rupp (right) presents Eric Newhouse with The 2000 Pulitzer Prize for Explanatory Reporting.

Finalists

Also nominated as finalists in this category were: Brent Walth and Alex Pulaski of The Oregonian, Portland, for their series on how politics influences pesticide regulation, and Michael Winerip of The New York Times for his profile of a mentally ill man who pushed a woman to her death before an onrushing subway train, a case used by the writer for a broad overview of deficiencies in the mental health care system.