Georgia Press association Honors Local Newspapers with Journalism Awards
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News and other Smith Communications publications for excellence in local news coverage.">
The Georgia Press Association (GPA) celebrated outstanding achievements in community journalism at its annual convention on Jekyll Island, presenting 482 awards across 42 categories to 74 newspapers on June 20. Among the honorees were several Smith communications publications, including The Jones County News, The Eatonton Messenger, and Lake Oconee News.
Top Honors for Local News coverage
The Jones County News Editor Debbie Lurie-Smith received a first-place award for Local News Coverage, highlighting the newspaper’s commitment to delivering impactful stories to its community. Lurie-Smith also secured third-place awards in Lifestyle Coverage and Business Writing, showcasing her versatility and dedication to journalistic excellence.
Did You Know? The GPA editorial contest saw a total of 2,213 entries this year, underscoring the competitive landscape of community journalism in Georgia.
Smith Communications Publications Shine
Other Smith Communications publications also garnered notable recognition. the Eatonton Messenger, under Managing Editor Josh Lurie, earned a first-place GPA award for Layout and Design. Lurie also received a second-place award for Page One Design for The Messenger. The Baldwin Bulletin placed first for layout and Design under editor Bailey McCully, and The Jones County News staff placed third in the same category.
Messenger editor Ian Tocher and sports reporter Lance McCurley won second place for sports section or pages.
lake Oconee News associate editor Hannah Barron placed first in Lifestyle Coverage, with Messenger editor Ian Tocher taking second place in the same category.
McCully won first- and second-place awards in education writing for The Bulletin.
For special issues,Lake Oconee News earned a third-place award with credit going to McCurley,Tocher,and Lurie. They also won a third-place award in special issues for The Bulletin.
Tocher received a first-place award for Photo Essay, and Brandy Round received third place in the same category for The Jones County News.
The Jones County News reporter Greenberry Moore won second place in feature writing.
Lake Oconee News won second place in magazine product, credited to Lakelife Magazine editor Lynn Hobbs and Lurie. Lake Oconee News also earned a third-place award in the same category, attributed to McCurley and Lurie.LON’s Leigh Lofgren and Hank Segars also won first- and second-place awards in magazine photography, respectively.
A Legacy of Journalistic Excellence
The awards highlight the ongoing commitment of these local newspapers to providing high-quality journalism and serving their communities. The Georgia Press Association’s recognition underscores the vital role these publications play in informing and engaging citizens across the state.
Pro Tip: Supporting local journalism helps ensure that communities remain informed and engaged. Consider subscribing to your local newspaper to stay up-to-date on important issues.
Award Highlights
| Publication | Award | Category | Recipient |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Jones county News | First Place | Local News Coverage | Debbie Lurie-Smith |
| The Eatonton Messenger | First Place | Layout and Design | Josh lurie |
| The Baldwin Bulletin | First Place | Layout and Design | Bailey McCully |
| Lake Oconee News | First Place | Lifestyle Coverage | Hannah Barron |
| the Eatonton Messenger | Second Place | page One Design | Josh Lurie |
| The Jones County News | Third Place | Layout and Design | Staff |
The Enduring Importance of Local Journalism
Local journalism plays a crucial role in informing communities, holding local leaders accountable, and fostering civic engagement. In an era of increasing media consolidation and the rise of social media, the role of local newspapers and news outlets is more critically important than ever. These publications provide in-depth coverage of local issues, from school board meetings to city council decisions, ensuring that citizens have the information they need to participate in their communities.
furthermore, local journalism helps to build social capital by connecting people to their neighbors and fostering a sense of shared identity. By reporting on local events, community initiatives, and the stories of local residents, these publications help to create a sense of belonging and strengthen the bonds that hold communities together.
Frequently Asked Questions About Community Journalism
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why is local news coverage important?
Local news coverage is crucial for informing communities about local events, holding local leaders accountable, and fostering civic engagement.
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What role do community newspapers play in society?
Community newspapers connect people to their neighbors, foster a sense of shared identity, and report on local events and initiatives.
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How can I support local journalism?
You can support local journalism by subscribing to your local newspaper, attending community events, and engaging with local news outlets on social media.
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What are the challenges facing local news organizations today?
Local news organizations face challenges such as declining advertising revenue,increasing competition from online sources,and the need to adapt to changing audience preferences.
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How does the Georgia Press Association support community journalism?
The Georgia Press Association supports community journalism by providing training, resources, and recognition to local newspapers and journalists across the state.
What are your favorite local news sources? How do you stay informed about what’s happening in your community?
Share this article and join the conversation about the importance of local journalism!
