The True Dakotan brought home seven news/ editorial awards from South Dakota Newspaper Association’s (SDNA) annual contest, announced May 12 during the joint SDNA/North Dakota Newspaper Association (NDNA) Convention held in Devils Lake, ND. The contest spotlights some of the best work done by newspapers across the state, recognizing excellence in various aspects of newspaper journalism for the 2022 year.
Editor/Publisher Kristi Hine won three editorial awards in the weekly circulation category including first place in the Best Headline Writing category and second in Best Sports Reporting category for Christensen Brings Home Second Straight Heavyweight Title. Judges commented, “Enjoyed that this was a profile of a champion as much as it was announcing his success. Nice writing style.” Hine also earned second place in Best News Series with Community Concerns Spur School Board Listening Session. Judges weighed in, “What began as a seemingly simple request for a community listening session concerning public schools ended up being a deep dive into the matter. The True Dakotan’s Kristi Hine reports in depth on citizens’ concerns, and the school district’s responses.”
Hine also won three photographic awards which include first place for Best Spot News Photo covering the Leap to Lane event, Weekend Event Helps Small Town Make Big Leap Forward. Bringing home second place in the Best Sports Photo category was a steer wrestling photograph from Foothills Rodeo. One judge commented, “Nice shot! Made me feel like I was part of the action!” Hine won third place for Memorial Day coverage in the Best Photo Series category. One judge pointed out, “Good use of unusual shapes in the layout. The detail shot with the crosses is nice. Good job of setting the scene and showing details. The barrel flash in the main image is cool.”
In the advertorial portion of the contest, Graphic Designer Cam Fagerhaug won second place in the Best Use of Color category for the ad designed for Seed Barn and L Double J Implement’s Thanksgiving ad titled Attitude of Gratitude. One judge noted, “Excellent arrangement and use of color.”
“The SDNA Better Newspaper Contest serves as the industry standard when it comes to recognizing top-notch journalism, photography, newspaper design and advertising in the state,” said Hine. “Our commitment to providing True Dakotan readers and advertisers with a high-quality community newspaper every week remains unwavering. We are honored to bring these awards back to Jerauld County.”
