News-Times recognized by Arkansas Press Association
The El Dorado News-Times staff has been recognized with nine awards in the Arkansas Press Association's 2019 Better Newspaper Editorial Contest, taking two first place prizes.
"Recognition of my news staff by an objective press association is always a good thing," said Rita Haldeman, News-Times general manager. "This year's press awards were judged by the North Carolina Press Association. Winning isn't everything, but it definitely is nice to be honored for the work we do."
The News-Times competes against other daily newspapers with similar circulations, putting the paper in competition with the Saline Courier, in Benton, and the Pine Bluff Commercial, among others.
News Editor Terrance Armstard took the most awards for the News-Times this year, with five wins. Armstard took first, sec
ond and third in the single sports action photograph category; third place in the single feature photograph category; and third place in the picture page/photo essay category.
Writer Jason Avery took third place in the sports feature story category for his story "Sealing the Deal," which covered former Parkers Chapel baseball star Eric White's wait for the Major League Baseball First-Year Player Draft. White was drafted by the Philadelphia Phillies in the 26th round last year.
Former News-Times sports reporter Kev Moye, who works frequently as a freelance sportswriter, took first-place in the sports news story category for his story "Dragons claim Championship," which covered the Junction City Dragons' state football championship win.
Former education reporter Michael Shine took third place in the feature story category for his story "Local teen recognized by medical professionals for heroic efforts." Shine's story covered 13-year-old Jason Reed's recognition by local first responders for helping secure medical care for his father in an emergency situation after the elder Reed fell from a deer stand.
Former News-Times Managing Editor Madeleine Leroux received an honorable mention in the news story category for her story "'Stunning' damage to historic South Ark building." Her story covered damage to South Arkansas Community College's historic Administration Building resulting from a lightning strike that cause the building to catch fire.
The News-Times also received recognition for its health coverage of Union County, taking third place in the coverage of health category.
"I am proud of the News-Times team and look forward to future years and garnering more awards," Haldeman said.
The Arkansas Press Association is the oldest professional organization in the state, with 123 newspaper members and over 130 Association members. The APA serves their members by providing information and training opportunities aimed to help them grow, develop and compete in the marketplace.