paNOW was recognized for its extensive news coverage of the fire on Christmas Day that destroyed the Salvation Army in downtown Prince Albert. (Image Credit: Submitted)

By paNOW Staff

FWD awards

paNOW wins storytelling honour at Western Canadian media conference

Jun 5, 2026 | 5:10 PM

paNOW.com has been recognized for its extensive and evolving coverage of the devastating Christmas Day fire that destroyed the Salvation Army building in Prince Albert, earning a News & Storytelling Excellence Award at the 2026 FWD Conference in Kelowna.

The award highlights journalism that demonstrates accuracy, creativity and impact while providing in-depth coverage of major events or public issues.

paNOW’s submission centred on its sustained reporting of the fire that gutted the long-standing downtown facility on Dec. 25. The newsroom was among the first to report on the blaze as thick smoke and flames engulfed the building, and continued to follow the story as it developed over the following days and weeks.

Coverage included on-the-ground reporting from the scene, with images and updates from firefighters battling the blaze in extreme cold conditions, as well as details on the immediate emergency response and the coordinated efforts by the City of Prince Albert, the Salvation Army and community agencies to relocate warming shelter services overnight.

In the days that followed, paNOW continued to track the broader impact of the loss on vulnerable residents who relied on the facility for meals, shelter and support services. Reporting also included interviews with long-time volunteers and community members reflecting on the significance of the building and the emotional toll of its destruction.

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The newsroom also followed the investigation into the cause of the fire, reporting when officials later confirmed the blaze was human-caused and involved multiple points of origin inside the structure.

The FWD Conference recognizes work that goes beyond routine reporting, highlighting journalism that provides context and depth. Organizers said the storytelling category is intended to recognize coverage that helps audiences better understand the significance and impact of major events.

paNOW.com was among several media outlets honoured at the 2026 conference in Kelowna.

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by paNOW Staff

paNOW wins storytelling honour at Western Canadian media conference

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