Squamish’s community newspaper went three-for-three at the B.C. and Yukon Community Newspapers Association’s Ma Murray Awards gala in Richmond on the weekend.
During the event honouring the best and brightest for 2013 on Saturday (April 26) at the River Rock Casino, The Chief was awarded first place for Newspaper Excellence in Category C.
As well, reporter/photographer Ben Lypka grabbed the top spot in the Feature Photo Award (circulation under 25,000) category for his photo, “Polar Expression” that appeared on the front page of the Dec. 5, 2013, edition of the newspaper.
As well, The Chief’s Nicolas Hesson won first place in the Ad Design Award category (circ. under 25,000) for his Brave Planet ad. The Chief’s Kristen Dillon placed second in the same category for her Kaos Kids ad.
The judge who chose The Chief as the best newspaper among 15 in its circulation category in B.C and the Yukon had this to say: “The Squamish Chief stands out because it is so unique. Excellent photography is highlighted with extra large photos that are clean and sharp. Excellent, inviting front pages, interesting local content, superior production quality and an overall attractive package combine to make this paper a clear winner. With top scores in eight of the 11 judging categories, it’s no surprise that The Chief took first place again.”
Judges also lauded Lypka’s shot of “The Conductor” sharing in the excitement of a youngster on board the Polar Express train at the West Coast Railway Heritage Park.
“A fun front-page photo that grabs the reader’s attention using strong subject interaction and expressions,” the judge wrote. “It shows the joy and excitement children enjoy at Christmas time.”
Hesson’s winning ad used “strong photography and imagery, as well as powerful emphasis and great hierarchy,” the judge wrote. Of Dillon’s Kaos Kids ad, the judge wrote, “Fun and fresh graphics, and a modern look and feel.”
