Spotlight News received a first-place award in the best front page category at this year’s New York Press Association spring conference held last weekend.
Spotlight News’ flagship edition, which serves the towns of Bethlehem, New Scotland and Guilderland, was recognized for the look and content of its front page over the course of 2013. In their summary, the judges noted they “really enjoyed the design of each of the front pages. There is thought and creativity while still ensuring readability.” One judge said, “I would enjoy getting these delivered to my home.”
This marks the third consecutive year that Spotlight News has won best front page in its division.
“It’s great,” John McIntyre, publisher of Spotlight News, said. “This proves that we have a great look.”
Managing Editor Kristen Roberts, who has been the lead designer of the front pages at Spotlight News for the past three years, said the award highlights the work of everyone in the newsroom.
“Really, it’s about the whole package,” said Roberts. “If it weren’t for the quality content, it would all just be window dressing.”
Spotlight News also received a second place award for sports action photo for McIntyre’s picture of a play in a Guilderland-Ballston Spa football game. The image earned praise from the judges for highlighting “the competitive drive.”
“It’s great to be at the right place at the right time and to be able to capture it,” McIntyre said.
Arts writer Dania Bianchi and former Spotlight editor Charles Wiff were honored with a third-place win for coverage of the arts in the Spotlight on Living section, which was added in fall 2013.
“Visually interesting and photos are active, interesting and well-done. Both breadth and depth are explored in coverage,” the judges said.