National Newspaper Assocation recognizes the Itemizer-Observer

Congratulations, to the Itemzier-Observer on more accolades received for the 2010 calendar year - - this time on a national level.

The crew of the I-O received notice from the National Newspaper Association of three awards coming their way at NNA's national convention in September in New Mexico.

The 2010 edition of "Explore Polk County" has won First Place in its division, Pete Strong has won another First Place award for his photo of Marine Sgt. Ian Tawney's casket arrival back home from Afghanistan, and Jolene Guzman and Adam Korst received Third Place for their series of stories on Ben Casalegno and his surgical procedure allowing him to hear.

Only five total entries were submitted, so to have three earn awards and two place first at a national level is a significant accomplishment.

Congratulations to the winners!

Judges comments are below:

　

Best Breaking News Photo, Non-daily Division, circulation less than 6,000 1st place A U.S. Marine Corps Honor Guard carries the casket... 10/27/10 Pete Strong This was a difficult choice. However, the depth of field made this photo tops. The Patriot Guard, the Marines, the casket - very powerful!

Best Feature Series, Non-daily Division, circulation 4,500 - 5,999 3rd place Ben Casalegno: Moving past the sounds of silence 1/13/10 Jolene Guzman & Adam Korst Well-done account of a medical procedure.

Best Special News, Sports or Feature Section or Edition, Non-daily Division, circ. 3,000 - 5,999 1st place Explore Polk County 5/26/10 Wonderful community guide! Great photos and articles! Really reflects Polk County!