All three declined comment on recent turmoil at the paper but seemed relatively at ease. Steiger, now head of the new investigative organization Pro Publica, focused his speech on the state of international reporting, but didn't miss the opportunity to honor his chosen successor. Mentioning his 16 years heading the Journal, he praised his former colleagues but named just one — Brauchli — to audience applause. And one of the Journal reporters accepting an award for reporting on the Indian economy pointedly referred to a tradition at the paper "that has enabled great journalism in the past and, it is hoped, in the future."

Rupert Murdoch wasn't the only press baron whose presence was felt, however. Bob Drogin, a national security and intelligence reporter for the Los Angeles Times who was honored for his book "Curveball," recalled advice he got about appearing on "The Colbert Report." Treat him as you would a drunk at a bar, Drogin said, avoiding a fight and trying to have fun. "I think about that advice a lot at the L.A. Times," he said, where new Tribune owner Sam Zell "reminds me of Stephen Colbert's character, except he's not trying to be funny." He mourned "the scaling back of a world-class institution," and said, "Instead of covering a disaster, we're in danger of becoming one." — Irin Carmon

PARTNER IN COPY: Maxim editorial director James Kaminsky brought back his number two from Playboy and Maxim — the first time he edited the title — to be the managing editor at Maxim yet again. Lisa Grace joins the magazine from Best Life, where she had been managing editor since 2006. Prior to Best Life, Grace helped launch Quick & Simple, which Hearst Magazines introduced in 2005. Kaminsky also promoted another loyal lieutenant at Maxim: David Swanson was upped to features editor from senior editor. Kaminsky brought Swanson from Rolling Stone to Men's Journal when he edited the Wenner Media men's title. When Kaminsky left Men's Journal last August to helm Maxim, he brought in Swanson shortly afterward. — S.D.S.

ELLE RAISER: Though Elle and former fashion director Nina Garcia have not yet settled on the terms of their future working relationship (nor her relationship to "Project Runway," since Elle is contracted to the show through season five), the magazine elevated several staffers, including Garcia's old assistants, to fill the gap. First, Kate Lanphear, senior style and market editor who is said to be a possible successor for Garcia, has been promoted to style director. Joann Pailey, formerly senior fashion market editor, was promoted to market director. Also, Jade Frampton was elevated to a market editor and Malina Joseph has been named fashion bookings editor. A replacement for Garcia, who was fired from her position earlier this month, has not yet been appointed.