The Capital Journal wins awards

PIERRE, S.D. – The Capital Journal came away from the South Dakota Newspaper Association annual convention with several individual and team awards.

In the general excellence category, the newspaper placed third in its circulation group of dailies with less than 14,000 circulation. There are eight South Dakota newspapers in the category. The Capital Journal also placed second in the typography and design category.

In the individual categories, reporter David Montgomery received first-place recognition in the best news series category for his continued coverage of the anti-abortion measure on the November 2008 election ballot. Associate Editor Rebecca Bentz and Managing Editor Rebecca Cruse got second-place for best photo series for a special photo page dedicated to the Pierre summer event, Oahe Days. Rebecca Cruse also received second place in the best headline writing category. And the editorial staff, including Rebecca Cruse, Rebecca Bentz, People section editor Shawna Bleecker and reporters Montgomery, Jeff Bunn and Jane Hinrichs received an honorable mention in the best feature series category for the Real People series, featured each Monday in the Capital Journal.

In advertising awards, sales representative Josie Huck and classifieds manager Amanda Peck won first place for most-original creative idea; sales rep. Nicole Neal won third place for best 2x4 ad idea; sales rep. Lynne Thomas won third place for best use of art service; and advertising sales manager Lisa Williams and graphic designer Kimberly Robinson, along with the advertising and design staff received first place for best multiple advertiser spread. The Capital Journal also received second place for best classifieds section.