PITTSBURG, Kan. — The Kansas Press Association announced winners of the statewide Awards of Excellence on Wednesday. The Morning Sun staff members collectively won 25 awards.
For the awards, Kansas newspapers were divided by circulation, or subscription numbers, and Morning Sun staff members competed with other newspapers in the same division. Entries are judged by newspaper staff in another state. Awards are given to first-, second- and third-place winners of each category.
First Place winners
Staff Writer Aaron Pyle won first place in the Column Writing category with his Pyle’s Perspective. He was also awarded first place for Story/Photo Combination, General News Photo, and Photo Package.
Lead Designer Sara Hannigan won first place for Best Fashion Ad, Best Specialty Ad, and Best Use of Color.
Sports Editor Jim Henry was awarded first place for Sports Column Writing.
News Editor Ron Womble won first place for Feature Photo.
Staff Writer Antjea Wolff was awarded first place for Local Business Story.
Second Place winners
Wolff won second place in the Seniors Story and Best Story/Picture Combination.
Hannigan received second place for Special Section-Advertising.
Third Place winners
Hannigan placed third in Best Professional Service Ad, Best Automotive Ad, Best Political Ad, and Best House Ad. She also won third place for overall Best Graphic Designer.
Wolff won third place for Feature Story and Spot News Photo.
Publisher Josh Letner was awarded third place for Series.
Staff Writer Dustin Strong won third place for Column Writing.
Henry was awarded third place for Feature Sports Writing.
Pyle won third place for General News photo.
Designer Caroline Bergen won third place for Best Front Page.
“From my first day at the Sun, it was clear to me that we are blessed with a talented staff of dedicated professionals,” Letner said. “Our staff genuinely care about the Pittsburg community, and it's incredibly gratifying to see the Kansas Press Association recognize their passion. I know I speak for our ownership group and all of the contributors to the Morning Sun when I say that I couldn't be more proud to be associated with such a fantastic team.”
