Observer takes first place for national award

SPRINGFIELD, ILL. (6/29/16)--The National Newspaper Association announced the winning newspaper entries for the 2016 Better Newspaper Editorial Contest and The Observer has been awarded first place in the nationwide competition.
The Observer's coverage of the 2015 NASCAR weekend in Watkins Glen took top honors in the "Best Photo Essay" division for daily and non-daily newspapers with less than 3,000 circulation.
George Lawson, The Observer's president and publisher, said, "Our photographers and reporters, Brandon Lawson and David Specksgoor, put together an outstanding photo essay from the weekend racing event and the National Newspaper Association recognizes the best work from across the country. We are pleased that our readers get to see the best coverage that is available anywhere. "
In addition, Brandon Lawson received an Honorable Mention award in the "Best Sports Photo" category for one of his basketball action photographs.
After the judging was completed, one of the judges said, "I am always impressed with the dedication to community and quality journalism I see."
The National Newspaper Association editorial contest received 1,436 entries this year from 39 states for the various award categories.
The winning newspapers will be recognized at the association's annual convention in September.