Congrats to the winners of the 2024 MPA Better Newspaper Contest. This year’s competition boasted 1,442 entries from 36 newspapers & digital outlets competing in 59 categories and three divisions. Thanks to our 2024 Contest Partners including Lynne Lance, and the Nebraska Press Association.
Click Here to connect to all categories with the exception of General Excellence Advertising, General Excellence Print, Best in Show, and Individual Awards.
For those categories, Click Here.
Annual Business Meeting | 8:45 a.m. – 9:15 a.m.
Sessions | 9:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.
Elevating Your Stories: Art Meets Journalism
Unlock the secrets to transforming your stories from ordinary to extraordinary! Discover how the perfect blend of photographs, charts, graphs, and graphic elements can amplify your narrative. Dive into the minds of a photographer, data journalist, and page designer as they reveal how to infuse your stories with dynamic visual artistry and design thinking.
Presenters include Leela Stockley of the Bangor Daily News, Cyndi Wood of The Ellsworth American and Ernie Anderson of the Sun Journal.
Sessions | 10:45 – 11:45 a.m.
Editors’ Roundtable: Strategies, Innovations, and More
Join a dynamic group of editors from across the state for a high-energy roundtable session. Delve into hot topics like the role of AI in journalism and the upcoming election coverage. Share strategies, brainstorm solutions, and engage in a lively exchange of ideas. Bring your questions and be ready for an interactive and insightful discussion.
Join Lindsay Putnam of the Bangor Daily News and Scott Monroe of The Kennebec Journal and Morning Sentinel for this session.
Reporters’ Roundtable: The Untold Stories
Step into the world of reporting with this exclusive session just for reporters. Hosted by a select group of award-winning journalists, this is your chance to swap jaw-dropping stories, seek advice, and ask those burning questions you wouldn’t dare pose to your boss. Get ready for a candid and entertaining conversation among peers.
Join the current Maine Journalist of the Year, Michael Shepherd of the Bangor Daily News, and Johnathan Riley of The Lincoln County News for this session.
Hall of Fame Induction Luncheon | 12 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Join us at the Hall of Fame luncheon to honor some of Maine’s most influential journalists. This year’s inductees highlight the rich history and ongoing impact of journalism in the state:
Larry Mahoney – With over 50 years at the Bangor Daily News, Mahoney is a legendary figure in Maine sports journalism. Known for his extensive coverage of local high school and college sports, he has authored around 30,000 stories over his illustrious career. His dedication has earned him the title of Maine Sportswriter of the Year six times.
Naomi Schalit and John Christie – The founders of the Maine Center for Public Interest Reporting, publishing as The Maine Monitor, Schalit and Christie are recognized for their commitment to fearless and non-partisan journalism. Their pioneering work in the non-profit media sector has expanded the organization from a two-person operation to a thriving team of 11, serving over 10,200 subscribers.
Additionally, the event will feature an address by Michael Shepherd, the current Journalist of the Year and politics editor at the Bangor Daily News. Shepherd has been a key figure in state and federal political reporting since joining the paper in 2015.
Sessions | 1:45 – 2:45 p.m.
Getting the most for your clients
In this workshop, you’ll learn how to conduct a comprehensive client needs analysis for your customers. We’ll guide you through the process of identifying business goals, understanding target audiences and setting budgets to craft a tailored advertising strategy. By the end of the session, you’ll be equipped to create customized advertising plans that align with client expectations and maximize impact.
This session will be led by Courtney Spencer, Vice President of Advertising for Maine Trust for Local News.
Generating Story Ideas: From Concept to Creation
Struggling to come up with compelling story ideas? This session is your ultimate guide to brainstorming, researching, and crafting narratives that resonate. Learn from seasoned editors and reporters about how to keep your ideas fresh, relevant, and deeply engaging. Say goodbye to writer’s block and hello to a steady stream of inspiration.
This session will be led by Faith DeAmbrose of the Mount Desert Islander and Jennifer Osborne of The Ellsworth American.
Keynote Discussion: Courage Under Fire | 3:00– 4:15 p.m.
In the face of chaos and danger, the Sun Journal’s team sprinted towards the heart of Maine’s darkest hour. Gain exclusive insight into the high-stakes decisions and relentless dedication that shaped their coverage of the state’s worst mass shooting. Join a riveting panel discussion, moderated by Kate Cough, editor of the Maine Monitor, and hear firsthand from those who braved the storm to deliver critical news.
The panel will consist of Marla Hoffman, Sun Journal managing editor/nights who supervised the coverage from the Lewiston office with the unnerving sound of sirens filling the background the entire shift; Joe Charpentier, SJ cops reporter and first reporter at the bowling alley; Russ Dillingham, SJ photographer and the first photographer at the bowling alley, and then at Schemengees; and Julia Arenstam, Press Herald city editor, who managed the live blog that night and coordinated additional help from Press Herald staff.
5 – 6 p.m. | Scholarship Auction and Reception
6:30 p.m. | Awards Dinner and Banquet
* Note: A previous schedule included a session about newsletters. That session has been cancelled.
Please join us Saturday, Oct. 19 at Atlantic Oceanside Hotel & Event Center in Bar Harbor for the 2024 MPA Conference. A full day of events is planned, including informative sessions, the Hall of Fame Induction Luncheon, the annual Scholarship Auction & Reception and the Better Newspaper Awards Dinner & Banquet.
Come to the Conference and engage with other MPA members, learn something new at the variety of programming, drive up the bidding at the Scholarship Auction, and cheer on your comrades and friends as we name Best Newspaper, Best Website, Journalist of the Year, Best Young Writer, Advertising Person of the Year, and Unsung Hero at the Awards Dinner & Banquet.
Registration is required for attendance at the Conference, regardless of whether you plan to attend programming, the Hall of Fame Induction Luncheon, and/or the Awards Dinner & Banquet. The Conference Registration Deadline is Sept. 27. Click here for the registration form.
IMPORTANT: As the registration form explains, the $15 registration fee is REQUIRED for ALL MPA members/staff—even if only attending the programming or Awards Dinner. Guests, family and non-staff do not pay the registration fee.
Conference Hotel Room Reservations for Oct. 18-19 must be made directly with Atlantic Oceanside Hotel, or the lodging of your choice. We have a room block reserved at Atlantic Oceanside with a special conference rate of $249-$289/night. Click here for more information and to book online or call 1-207-288-5801.
The Hotel Reservation Deadline is Sept. 27. The hotel will try but cannot guarantee group rate & room availability beyond this date.
Annual Business Meeting | 8:45 a.m. – 9:15 a.m.
SESSIONS | 9:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.
Elevating Your Stories: Art Meets Journalism
Unlock the secrets to transforming your stories from ordinary to extraordinary! Discover how the perfect blend of photographs, charts, graphs, and graphic elements can amplify your narrative. Dive into the minds of a photographer, data journalist, and page designer as they reveal how to infuse your stories with dynamic visual artistry and design thinking.
Editors’ Round Table: Strategies, Innovations, and More
Join a dynamic group of editors from across the state for a high-energy roundtable session. Delve into hot topics like the role of AI in journalism and the upcoming election coverage. Share strategies, brainstorm solutions, and engage in a lively exchange of ideas. Bring your questions and be ready for an interactive and insightful discussion.
SESSIONS | 10:45 – 11:45 a.m.
Getting the most for your clients
In this workshop, you’ll learn how to conduct a comprehensive client needs analysis for your customers. We’ll guide you through the process of identifying business goals, understanding target audiences and setting budgets to craft a tailored advertising strategy. By the end of the session, you’ll be equipped to create customized advertising plans that align with client expectations and maximize impact.
Reporters’ Round Table: The Untold Stories
Step into the world of reporting with this exclusive session just for reporters. Hosted by a select group of award-winning journalists, this is your chance to swap jaw-dropping stories, seek advice, and ask those burning questions you wouldn’t dare pose to your boss. Get ready for a candid and entertaining conversation among peers.
Hall of Fame Induction Luncheon | 12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Join us at the Hall of Fame luncheon, hosted by the Maine Press Association on October 19, to honor some of Maine’s most influential journalists. This year’s inductees highlight the rich history and ongoing impact of journalism in the state:
~ Larry Mahoney – With over 50 years at the Bangor Daily News, Mahoney is a legendary figure in Maine sports journalism. Known for his extensive coverage of local high school and college sports, he has authored around 30,000 stories over his illustrious career. His dedication has earned him the title of Maine Sportswriter of the Year six times.
~ Naomi Schalit and John Christie – The founders of the Maine Center for Public Interest Reporting, publishing as The Maine Monitor, Schalit and Christie are recognized for their commitment to fearless and non-partisan journalism. Their pioneering work in the non-profit media sector has expanded the organization from a two-person operation to a thriving team of 11, serving over 10,200 subscribers.
Additionally, the event will feature an address by Michael Shepherd, the current Journalist of the Year and politics editor at the Bangor Daily News. Shepherd has been a key figure in state and federal political reporting since joining the paper in 2015.
Join us to celebrate the contributions and achievements of these remarkable journalists who have shaped the landscape of Maine journalism. The luncheon will take place during the conference on October 19 at 12 p.m. Tickets are $35 and are available by contacting MPA Executive Director Diane Norton at mainepressmail@gmail.com or 691-0131.
SESSIONS | 1:45 p.m. – 2:45 p.m.
Using Newsletters Effectively: Engage, Inform, Monetize
Unlock the full potential of your newsletters! Discover what’s working in the world of email journalism, and learn how to boost engagement, drive website traffic, and explore monetization strategies. Equip yourself with practical insights and actionable tips to make your newsletters a powerful tool in your editorial arsenal.
Generating Story Ideas: From Concept to Creation
Struggling to come up with compelling story ideas? This session is your ultimate guide to brainstorming, researching, and crafting narratives that resonate. Learn from seasoned editors and reporters about how to keep your ideas fresh, relevant, and deeply engaging. Say goodbye to writer’s block and hello to a steady stream of inspiration!
Keynote | 3:00 p.m. – 4:15 p.m.
Keynote Discussion: Courage Under Fire
In the face of chaos and danger, the Sun Journal’s team sprinted towards the heart of Maine’s darkest hour. Gain exclusive insight into the high-stakes decisions and relentless dedication that shaped their coverage of the state’s worst mass shooting. Join a riveting panel discussion, moderated by Kate Cough, editor of the Maine Monitor, and hear firsthand from those who braved the storm to deliver critical news.
5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. | Scholarship Auction and Reception
6:30 p.m. | Awards Dinner and Banquet
The MPA’s annual conference will be held Saturday, Oct. 19 at Atlantic Oceanside Hotel & Event Center in Bar Harbor. A full day of events is planned, including informative sessions, the 2024 Hall of Fame Induction Luncheon, the annual Scholarship Auction & Reception and the 2024 Better Newspaper Awards Dinner & Banquet.
Come to the Conference and engage with other MPA members, learn something new at the variety of programming, drive up the bidding at the Scholarship Auction, and cheer on your comrades and friends as we name Best Newspaper, Best Website, Journalist of the Year, Best Young Writer, Advertising Person of the Year, and Unsung Hero at the Awards Dinner & Banquet.
All winners of the 2024 Better Newspaper Contest were notified August 30, with the exception of the Special and Individual Awards including General Excellence, Freedom of Information, Journalist and Advertising Persons of the Year, Bob Drake Young Writer, and Unsung Hero—which will be revealed at the Awards Banquet.
Registration is required for attendance at the Conference, regardless of whether you plan to attend programming, the Hall of Fame Induction Luncheon, and/or the Awards Dinner & Banquet. The Conference Registration Deadline is Sept. 27. Click here for the registration form.
Conference Hotel Room Reservations for Oct. 18-19 must be made directly with Atlantic Oceanside Hotel, or the lodging of your choice. We have a room block reserved at Atlantic Oceanside with a special conference rate of $249-$289/night. Click here for more information and to book online or call 1-207-288-5801. The Hotel Reservation Deadline is Sept. 27. The hotel will try but cannot guarantee group rate & room availability beyond this date.
Preparations are underway for the 2024 MPA’s Conference, to be held Saturday, Oct. 19, at Atlantic Oceanside Hotel & Event Center in Bar Harbor. A full day of events is planned, including informative sessions, the 2024 Hall of Fame Induction Luncheon, Annual Scholarship Auction & Reception and the 2024 Better Newspaper Awards Dinner & Banquet.
We expect to notify winners of the 2024 Better Newspaper Contest by August 31, with the exception of the Special and Individual Awards including General Excellence, Freedom of Information, Journalist and Advertising Persons of the Year, Bob Drake Young Writer, and Unsung Hero—which will be revealed at the Awards Banquet.
Conference Hotel Room Reservations for Oct. 18-19 must be made directly with Atlantic Oceanside Hotel, or the lodging of your choice. We have a room block reserved at Atlantic Oceanside with a special conference rate of $249-$289/night. Click here for more information and to book online or call 1-207-288-5801. The Hotel Reservation Deadline is Sept. 27. The hotel will try but cannot guarantee group rate & room availability beyond this date.
Three new members will enter the Maine Press Association Hall of Fame on October 19.
Naomi Schalit, John Christie and Larry Mahoney have been selected by the MPA’s Hall of Fame Committee and will be inducted during the luncheon at this year’s fall conference in Bar Harbor.
After decades-long careers in Maine journalism, Naomi Schalit and John Christie founded the Maine Center for Public Interest Reporting, which publishes The Maine Monitor today. With a commitment to delivering fearless, hard-hitting and non-partisan journalism, the two took on some of the state’s thorniest and complicated issues showing the public all dimensions of a complex problem.
In 2009 the Maine Center for Public Interest Reporting was born and its first story, researched and written by John, examined the role of money, influence and personal relationships in Gov. John Baldacci’s handling of tax reform legislation.
When they were done with their reporting, they gave it away for free to any newsroom across the state that wanted to publish it. That first story also ran in the Bangor Daily News, the Lewiston Sun Journal, The Ellsworth American and Mount Desert Islander. MCPIR was off and running.
Christie and Schalit were pioneers of Maine’s non-profit media landscape, believing that the model would sustain the organization. Fifteen years later, the company has grown from two to 11 employees and delivers its content to more than 10,200 subscribers.
Larry Mahoney has been the face of sports at the Bangor Daily News for more than 50 years.
During his time at the BDN, Mahoney has covered sports at all levels and is a staple on the sidelines and in press boxes of high schools and colleges throughout the state. He likely possesses more knowledge about local athletes than anyone else in Maine.
Mahoney has been the beat writer for the University of Maine’s men hockey team since its inception and covered the program’s NCAA national championship in 1993 and 1999. He also covered the state championship high school field hockey games in 1976—the first year that even existed in Maine.
In 2023, Mahoney wrote 598 bylined stories, a typical year in the newspaper’s estimation. That would put Mahoney at about 30,000 stories over the course of his career—so far.
Mahoney has also been recognized as Maine Sportswriter of the Year six times by national media associations.
The MPA Hall of Fame, established in 1998, honors newspaper people with Maine connections who have made outstanding contributions to the profession. Its members are on the MPA website, at http://mainepressassociation.org/hall-of-fame/.
Tickets to the October 19 Hall of Fame induction ceremony, which takes place during the luncheon, are available by contacting MPA Executive Director Diane Norton at mainepressmail@gmail.com or 691-0131.
The nomination period for the 2024 MPA Individual awards – Journalist of the Year, Advertising Person of the Year, Bob Drake Young Writer, and Unsung Hero – has been extended to Friday, July 19.
Please email all nominations to maine@newspapercontest.com by July 19, 2024. Digital entries only, please. All nominations will receive a confirmation of receipt. If you’ve already submitted a nomination and have not received a confirmation, please resubmit.
The 2024 winners will be announced at the MPA Fall Conference on Oct. 19 in Bar Harbor. Here are the categories:
Note: If the number of entries is insufficient for any individual award, that award may not be given. In that case, any nominations will be held over for the following year.
It’s time to nominate your deserving staff and co-workers for the 2024 MPA Individual awards. Please email all nominations to maine@newspapercontest.com by July 5, 2024. Digital entries only, please. The 2024 winners will be announced at the MPA Fall Conference on Oct. 19 in Bar Harbor. Here are the categories:
Note: If the number of entries is insufficient for any individual award, that award may not be given. In that case, any nominations will be held over for the following year.
Nominations are now being accepted for 2024 inductees to the Maine Press Association Hall of Fame. The deadline to submit nominations is Friday, June 28. Candidates must be Maine newspaper professionals who made lasting career contributions to their craft, in or out of the state. Members can be elected posthumously.
The Hall of Fame was established in 1998. A list of all inductees is on the MPA website. To view, click here.
Each nomination should be accompanied by supporting material that will help committee members as they make their decisions. Nominations and supporting materials must be submitted in an electronic format.
Questions and nominations can be sent to the committee in care of Faith DeAmbrose at fdeambrose@mdislander.com. The 26th annual Hall of Fame induction ceremony will be held October 19 at the MPA Fall Conference in Bar Harbor.