Awards show changes category after criticism

The Niagara Socials Awards is going back to the drawing board after one of its categories was blasted on social media by one of the nominees.

The second annual event announced its nominations in 20 categories over the weekend, including Best Use in Social Media for News & Journalism. But upon seeing who he was nominated with — including a real estate office, yoga studio and the Winter Festival of Lights — St. Catharines Standard reporter Grant LaFleche withdrew his name from consideration.

“While it might seem cute to include a real estate firm, or a yoga studio in the category of ‘best in news and journalism,’ it’s kind of ridiculous,” LaFleche tweeted. “When a yoga studio starts sitting through regional committee meetings or covering murders, I’ll change my tune.”

In response, Niagara Socials organizer Matt Anthony sent an email explaining the category was meant to recognize brands which “share various news pertaining to their business/brand and community work,” at which point LaFleche withdrew his name.

“There really are some hardworking journalists in Niagara, and they all use social media as a tool for information gathering and sharing that should be recognized,” he tweeted. “Unfortunately, (Niagara Socials) have chosen to redefine journalism to mean brand promotion.”

Late Monday, an email from the Niagara Socials team announced the category was being re-evaluated after an “oversight in judgment,” and that it would be open for “qualified journalists and news outlets” to apply until Nov. 25.

Online voting for the winner runs Nov. 25 to Dec. 7

“Journalists and news outlets are essential for communication in our region and I want to ensure they deserve proper recognition,” the Niagara Socials email stated.

The second annual awards take place Dec. 7 at Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse in Niagara Falls.