Beginning in 2009, the Pulitzer Prizes in journalism will accept submissions from web-only publications that “adhere to the highest journalistic principles” and are “primarily dedicated to original news reporting and coverage of ongoing stories.” (As the New York Observerput it: “Translation: No lowly bloggers allowed!”)
This is good news for the pack of online news outlets that turned out stellar coverage this year–web-only news machines like MinnPost, ProPublica, Voice of San Diego, and the Center for Independent Media sites can seek old-media recognition for their vital pre- and post-election reporting, and for the local stories they’ve stayed on as print newsrooms hemorrhaged staff and resources.
(Thanks, Romenesko.)