Advocate nets 13 awards for journalistic excellence

MEMPHIS, Tenn. — The Franklin Advocate brought home a total of 13 awards from this past weekend’s tri-state press association convention.

“We are extremely proud of our staff in Meadville,” Advocate Publisher Paul Keane said. “Since Sean Dunlap took over operations as general manager, the paper has continually improved on a weekly basis, and continues to win more and more awards each competition.

“Sean does outstanding work and has been honored with awards throughout his career. We are pleased that he is carrying on that tradition with The Franklin Advocate.

“We also wish to thank our readers and advertisers, and all of the support the entire community provides for us. We are here to serve the community and could not accomplish these honors without that support.”

Keane also praised the work of Advocate writer Nicole Stokes, who he called an integral and valuable part of the newspaper’s staff.

Awards were presented during Saturday’s Better Newspaper Luncheon that was part of a tri-state convention with the Mississippi Press Association, Arkansas Press Association and Memphis Press Association.

The recognition was presented by the Mississippi Press Association.

The following awards, with judges comments, were as follows:

Business News Story, Nicole Stokes, first place for “Gone to Pottery.” Judges stated, “Well written and great quotes. Makes me want to come and check this place out.”

Sports News Story, Sean Dunlap, second place for “Franklin County School Board gives OK to GoFan.”

Sports News Story, Sean Dunlap, third place for “Thompson headed to Alcorn.”

Game Story, Sean Dunlap, second place for “Rangers lasso Bulldogs.”

Website, Sean Dunlap, second place for www.franklinadvocate.com.

Sports Feature, Nicole Stokes, third place for “Martial arts builds ties.”

Sports Action Photo, Sean Dunlap, third place for a photo of Franklin County High School baseball player Ridge Clanton.

Sports Page or Section, Sean Dunlap, third place.

Special Section, Advocate staff, third place for “All Roads Lead to Franklin County’s Future.”

Design, Sean Dunlap, third place.

Magazine Story, Sean Dunlap, fourth place for “Building more than just good players.”

Feature Story, Sean Dunlap, fourth place for “Never Too Late.”

Headlines, Sean Dunlap, Fourth Place.

This year’s competition was stiffer, as the number of divisions was reduced from six to four, meaning more newspapers were competing head-to-head.

Forty-four MPA member newsrooms submitted a total of 1,981 entries in the 2021 editorial division contest.

Judging was conducted this spring by volunteers from the South Carolina Press Association.