FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 6, 1999 CONTACT: Lisa Lacher, (515) 271-3119 DRAKE STUDENTS PRODUCE AWARD-WINNING MAGAZINE The first edition of 515 magazine, which was produced by Drake University students, has received a gold medalist rating - the highest rating a magazine can earn - from the Columbia Scholastic Press Association. "What a superior first edition," the judge said of 515. The magazine received 957 out of a possible 1,000 points and earned the All-Columbian Award for concept, content and creativity. "For such quality in a first try, there is not enough praise," said Patricia Prijatel, Drake's E.T. Meredith distinguished professor of journalism and publisher of 515, which derives its name from the local telephone area code. A magazine for young people living and working in Des Moines, 515 is produced as a capstone project by the senior-level magazine class at Drake University. Delving into often-overlooked corners of the city, 515 provides the information needed for a young person to get the most out of the city - from examining Des Moines' burning political issues to listing the best restaurants to try. The next issue of 515 is scheduled to be distributed in May 2000.