The J-Lab is a University of Maryland housed project for investigating, understanding, and supporting uses of technology in media for the public interest. Whew, that's a mouthful. In support of these goals, they've launched a contest, the Batten Awards, to highlight innovation in online journalism.
In any event, the whole shebang is run by the talented Jan Schaffer, who I've had the pleasure of meeting on occasion.
Memo to self: stop by J-Lab next time I visit home
Memo two self: win 2004 Batten Award