Mark Ridolfi

Nomination letter

Nominee: Mark Ridolfi
Star Positions Held:Editor 1980, Editorial Page Editor 1979

Nominated by: Michael Burke

Reason for nomination: Star alum Mark Ridolfi is an old-school journalist whose “hometown” coverage often has national implications. As editor of the editorial page for the Quad-City Times in Davenport, Iowa, Mark’s questioning during early presidential sparring can help or hinder a leading contender. Mark’s editorial endorsement can make or break a presidential campaign.

Mark has held the post since December 2002. Before that, he worked for 10 years as the Quad-City Times City Editor and devoted nearly 20 years on city desks in Moline, Indianapolis and Davenport. Mark also has served as chairman of the Board of Directors of the Mid-America Press Institute. He has won numerous awards, including a first place from the Suburban Newspapers of America for Editorial Page and Editorial Writing.

Mark first honed his journalistic skills at The Northern Star, where he served as editor in 1980 and editorial page editor in 1979. Mark Ridolfi is a consummate Star-type: a rigorous reporter who writes like a poet and doesn’t shy from asking tough questions.


From Jim:

• Mark's Quad City Times blog
• In 2003 Mark won first place from Suburban Newspapers of America for Editorial Page and Editorial Writing.
• Sample editorial from the QC Times