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Edit Or Adv
RKDivisionClassWinnerNewspaperWriter or PhotographerName of EntryJudge NotesPreparerURLFiles
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Advertising
Division 1BEST 2 COLUMN AD
3rd Place
Reporter & FarmerAmanda DulitzCornwell DrugCatchy title. Placement of color ad among B&W ads makes it stand out.
Amanda Dulitz
Best 2x ad_Reporter & Farmer_Amanda Dulitz.pdf
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Advertising
Division 1BEST 2 COLUMN AD
2nd Place
Reporter & FarmerJessica WashenbergerDay County AmbulanceNice use of reverse type to make the B&W ad stand out.
Amanda Dulitz
best 2 column ad_Reporter & Farmer_Jessica Washenberger.pdf
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Advertising
Division 1BEST 2 COLUMN AD
1st Place
Hamlin County Republican
LeeAnne DufekPie and Ice Cream SocialSimple and to the point. Good choice of graphics.
LeeAnne Dufek
HCR Best 2 Column Ad - Dufek.pdf
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Advertising
Division 2BEST 2 COLUMN AD
3rd Place
Mobridge TribuneJustin PetersenElevated BeautyA simple, eye-catching design that stands out on the page.
Justin Petersen
Best 2-Column Ad - Mobridge Tribune - Justin Petersen - Elevated Beauty.pdf
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Advertising
Division 2BEST 2 COLUMN AD
2nd Place
Tea WeeklyJulia MechelsAlber's Painting A clean ad that clearly demonstrates the product or service being advertised, making excellent use of the available space.
Anne HomanBest 2 column ad_Tea Weekly_Julia Mechels.pdf
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Advertising
Division 2BEST 2 COLUMN AD
1st Place
Grant County ReviewAshlie SchweitzerCats Can't AddClever, funny ad copy draws the reader in and makes you want to continue reading the advertisement.Holli SeehaferBest 2 Column Ad_Homestead Animal Health_Grant County Review_Ashlie Schweitzer.pdf
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Advertising
Division 3BEST 2 COLUMN AD
3rd Place
Black Hills PioneerDawn Ingalls, Sage RissMeadowlark TrailerSage RissBHP_12-27-25 05.pdf
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Advertising
Division 3BEST 2 COLUMN AD
2nd Place
Black Hills PioneerDeb BlackWright Well ServicesSage RissPROSP_02-25-25_A 3.pdf
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Advertising
Division 3BEST 2 COLUMN AD
1st Place
Black Hills PioneerChloe DeJong, Sage RissThe Homestead StoreSage RissPROSP_07-29-25_A 12.pdf
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Advertising
Division 1 & II
BEST BUSINESS DIRECTORY PAGE/SIGNATURE PAGE
3rd Place
Grant County ReviewAshlie SchweitzerLocally-owned businessesGreat job personalizing the advertisers.Holli SeehaferBest Business Directory page:Signature Page_Grant County Review_Ashlie Schweitzer.pdf
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Advertising
Division 1 & II
BEST BUSINESS DIRECTORY PAGE/SIGNATURE PAGE
2nd Place
Timber Lake TopicKathy Nelson, Kristine HeinenTimber Lake Ambulance Thank YouNice to put a face to the heroes that serve the local community.Jon FlatlandTLT-05-15-2025 A16.pdf
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Advertising
Division 1 & II
BEST BUSINESS DIRECTORY PAGE/SIGNATURE PAGE
1st Place
Mobridge TribuneJustin Petersen, Karen VogelHome Service GuideGood use of limited space to tell the story and maintain the brand identities of the advertisers.
Justin Petersen
Best Signature Page - Mobridge Tribune - Home Service Guide.pdf
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Advertising
Division 3BEST DIGITAL AD IDEA/CAMPAIGN
2nd Place
Yankton Daily Press & Dakotan
StaffHyVee Digital Ad CampaignThe take-over/expandable ad is an extremely effective and strategic advertising approach. Incorporating multiple variations increases visibility and ensures the message stands out across different viewing experiences and devices.Beth RyeBest Digital Ad Campaign_Press Dakotan_Staff_3 of 3.jpg, Best Digital Ad Campaign_Press Dakotan_Staff_1 of 3.jpg, Best Digital Ad Campaign_Press Dakotan_Staff_2 of 3.jpg
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Advertising
Division 3BEST DIGITAL AD IDEA/CAMPAIGN
1st Place
Mitchell RepublicLorie HansenFire Protection SolutionsWell-designed advertisement. The transitions between slides using the fire extinguisher are especially effective and visually engaging. The execution stays strongly aligned with the brand.Lorie Hansen
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Advertising
Division 1 & II
BEST PUBLICATION PROMOTION
3rd Place
Madison Daily LeaderRita FuerstCitizen of the YearKudos to you for getting readers to think about good things done their neighbors. Wren MurphyBest Publication Promotion (Rita Fuerst, Madison Daily Leader).pdf
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Advertising
Division 1 & II
BEST PUBLICATION PROMOTION
2nd Place
Brandon Valley JournalKim Giese, Jill MeierRead to the RacesGreat way to engage readers and make them dig deep for the answers.Jill MeierBrandon Valley Journal 6-10-25 _ Best Publication Promotion _ Read to the Races _ Kim Giese & Jill Meier.pdf
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Advertising
Division 1 & II
BEST PUBLICATION PROMOTION
1st Place
Custer County ChronicleJason FergusonBe a part of historyGreat idea to tie in with the town- wide celebration and create a special issue with longevity.
Jason Ferguson
Best Publication Promotion_Custer County Chronicle_Jason Ferguson.pdf
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Advertising
Division 1 & II
BEST SERIES AD IDEA
3rd Place
Custer County ChronicleJason FergusonHoratio's Ice CreamWe all scream for ice cream!
Jason Ferguson
Best Series Ad Idea_Custer County Chronicle_Jason Ferguson.pdf
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Advertising
Division 1 & II
BEST SERIES AD IDEA
2nd Place
Volga TribuneStaffBlue Goose sports pubMade me want to go to the Pub!Mary FordbestseriesAd_Volga Tribune_Mary FOrd_2of2.pdf, bestSeriesAd_Volga Tribune_Mary Ford_1of3.pdf, bestseriesad_VolgaTribune_maryFord_3of3.pdf
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Advertising
Division 1 & II
BEST SERIES AD IDEA
1st Place
Tea WeeklyJulia MechelsJ&R Mechanical No Tricks with the monsters was catchy.Anne HomanBest Series Ad Idea_Tea Weekly_Julia Mechels.pdf
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Advertising
Division 3BEST SERIES AD IDEA
3rd Place
Black Hills PioneerDeb Black, Lex SpurlockParadigm LumberA cleanly designed full-page ad that captures attention through its strong color choices and simple, effective layout.Sage Riss'25 Fall Home 23.pdf, BH Stock Show 2025 28pgs 28.pdf, Spring Home & Garden 20pgs 11.pdf
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Advertising
Division 3BEST SERIES AD IDEA
2nd Place
Black Hills PioneerKatie Heggem, Sage RissDown Town Friday NightsA clean, eye-catching banner ad that encourages readers to look through the newspaper each week for the next concert announcement.Sage RissBHP_06-10-25 01.pdf, BHP_06-24-25 01.pdf, BHP_07-01-25 01.pdf, BHP_07-15-25 01.jpg, BHP_07-22-25 01.jpg, BHP_07-29-25 01.jpg
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Advertising
Division 3BEST SERIES AD IDEA
1st Place
Black Hills PioneerDawn Ingalls, Sage RissThe Junk DrawerCreative, engaging advertisements that capture attention.Sage RissBHP_11-19-25 30.pdf, BHP_11-26-25 38.pdf, BHP_12-03-25 34.pdf
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Advertising
Division 1BEST SINGLE AD IDEA
3rd Place
Potter County NewsMolly McRobertsWhere the fun is on tap - Karaoke at MugsGroovy!
Molly McRoberts
PCN-10-02-2025 A02.pdf
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Advertising
Division 1BEST SINGLE AD IDEA
2nd Place
Tyndall Tribune & Register
Becky TyczDog PoopcuteBecky Tycz6-4 TYNDALL pg_10.pdf
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Advertising
Division 1BEST SINGLE AD IDEA
1st Place
Timber Lake Topic
Jon Flatland, Merretta Anderson
Simmentel-simangus saleCan't miss the cow!Jon FlatlandTLT-03-27-2025 B12.pdf
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Advertising
Division 2BEST SINGLE AD IDEA
3rd Place
Minnehaha MessengerAshley HuismanHumboldt Thresing ShowUnique and great display of information. Very aesthetically pleasing and holds a concept i have never heard of. Lisa MillerSingle Ad_Ashley.pdf
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Advertising
Division 2BEST SINGLE AD IDEA
2nd Place
Mobridge TribuneJustin Petersen, Karen VogelNothing says I Love YouProps for creativity. Something I never thought of.
Justin Petersen
Best Single Ad - Mobridge Tribune - Justin Petersen - Nothing Says I Love You.pdf
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Advertising
Division 2BEST SINGLE AD IDEA
1st Place
Brandon Valley JournalKim GieseCherry Rock FarmsPairs well for the season, great use of space, immediately recognizable. Jill MeierBrandon Valley Journal 9-24-25 _ Best Single Ad Idea _ Cherry Rock Farms _ Kim Giese.pdf
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Advertising
Division 3BEST SINGLE AD IDEA
3rd Place
Mitchell RepublicLorie HansenMitchell RealtyTypical realtor ad, however the Christmas graphics and color choices add elegance and draw focus well.Lorie HansenMitchell Realty - Best Single ad Idea, 12-13-2025.pdf
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Advertising
Division 3BEST SINGLE AD IDEA
2nd Place
Black Hills PioneerDawn Ingalls, Sage RissEvergreen Property ManagementClever layout that stands out.Sage RissBHP_02-04-25 21.pdf
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Advertising
Division 3BEST SINGLE AD IDEA
1st Place
Mitchell RepublicTom StevensPatzer WoodworkingNicely designed ad. A little confused by the cowboys for a cabinet company until I saw the "see you at the rodeo" line. Overall the layout is very nice and color choices are well done.Lorie HansenPatzer Woodworking - Best Single ad idea 7-17-25.pdf
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Advertising
Division 1BEST USE OF COLOR
3rd Place
Reporter & FarmerAmanda DulitzCustom MeatsI need a ribeye!
Amanda Dulitz
REPO02102025_A05.pdf
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Advertising
Division 1BEST USE OF COLOR
2nd Place
The SpecialKatie Vanden TopChili FeedYum!Lisa MillerUse of Color_Katie.pdf
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Advertising
Division 1BEST USE OF COLOR
1st Place
Reporter & FarmerRashantae McCartneyCandyland KitchenA Chicken offering ice cream is a good thing in my book!
Amanda Dulitz
best use of color_Reporter & Farmer_Rashantae McCartney.pdf
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Advertising
Division 2BEST USE OF COLOR
3rd Place
Dells City JournalKatie Vanden TopCongratsThe red/white blend helps make it really pop. Lisa MillerBest Use of Color_Katie.pdf
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Advertising
Division 2BEST USE OF COLOR
2nd Place
Lennox IndependentJulia MechelsChuck's Drive inIncredible use of color. Absolutely stunning. Shadows, the blue. Very very eye catching. Anne HomanBest use of color_The Lennox Independent_Julia Mechels.pdf
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Advertising
Division 2BEST USE OF COLOR
1st Place
Grant County ReviewAshlie SchweitzerSecond AnniversaryThe space in white has well picked colors that really pop.Holli SeehaferBest Use of Color_The Lakes One Stop_Grant County Review_Ashlie Schweitzer.pdf
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Advertising
Division 3BEST USE OF COLOR
3rd Place
Yankton Daily Press & Dakotan
Staff2M&D Cleaning Services Best Use of ColorBeth RyeBest Use of Color_Press & Dakotan_Staff.pdf
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Advertising
Division 3BEST USE OF COLOR
2nd Place
Yankton Daily Press & Dakotan
Kathy PritchardKuztom Auto LLC Best Use of ColorBeth RyeBest Use of Color_Press & Dakotan_Kathy Pritchard.pdf
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Advertising
Division 3BEST USE OF COLOR
1st Place
Black Hills PioneerDawn Ingalls, Sage RissChristina Singer - KWSage RissBHP_04-24-25 17.pdf
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Advertising
Division 1BEST USE OF LOCAL PHOTOGRAPHY
2nd Place
Reporter & FarmerAmanda DulitzCornwell DrugExcellent way of blending photos without seeming too busy.
Amanda Dulitz
best use of local photography_Reporter & Farmer_Amanda Dulitz.pdf
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Advertising
Division 1BEST USE OF LOCAL PHOTOGRAPHY
1st Place
True DakotanKristi Hine A2 Aerial Solutions Great use of black and white photography that really shows what this is.Kristi Hine A2 Aerial Solutions-BW.pdf
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Advertising
Division 2BEST USE OF LOCAL PHOTOGRAPHY
3rd Place
Madison Daily LeaderRita FuerstBest of Lake County - Dairy QueenHard to beat kids and ice cream!Wren MurphyBest Use of Local Photography (Rita Fuerst, Madison Daily Leader).pdf
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Advertising
Division 2BEST USE OF LOCAL PHOTOGRAPHY
2nd Place
Brandon Valley JournalKimGieseIron Sharpens IronGreat action!Jill MeierBrandon Valley Journal 11-19-25 _ Best Use of Local Photography _ Iron Sharpens Iron _ Kim Giese.pdf
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Advertising
Division 2BEST USE OF LOCAL PHOTOGRAPHY
1st Place
Custer County ChronicleJason FergusonGet ready to burnMade me want to attend the next Burning Bettle!
Jason Ferguson
Best Use of Local Photograph_Custer County Chronicle_Jason Ferguson.pdf
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Advertising
Division 3BEST USE OF LOCAL PHOTOGRAPHY
1st Place
Black Hills PioneerDeb Black, Lex SpurlockRapid Trailer SalesSage RissBH Stock Show 2025 28pgs 22.pdf
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Editorial
Division 1 & II
BEST EDITORIAL WRITING
3rd Place
Custer County ChronicleJason FergusonOur Viewpoint
This entry delivers solid editorial fundamentals: clear logic, an accessible tone, and strong command of civic context. The writing is steady and professional, with good local grounding. It does not reach the same emotional punch or originality as the top two, but it is consistently competent.
Jason Ferguson
Best Editorial Writing_Custer County Chronicle_Jason Ferguson.pdf
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Editorial
Division 1 & II
BEST EDITORIAL WRITING
2nd Place
Arlington SunFrank CrislerThe Arlington Sun Editorials
Crisler’s voice is confident, distinct, and intellectually energetic. The arguments are provocative but generally fair and well-reasoned, with strong pacing and memorable lines. At times the breadth of topics in a single piece dilutes focus, but the writing shows real authority and craft.
Frank CrislerEditorial The Arlington Sun 1 of 3.pdf, Editorial The Arlington Sun 2 of 3.pdf, Editorial The Arlington Sun 3 of 3.pdf
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Editorial
Division 1 & II
BEST EDITORIAL WRITING
1st Place
True DakotanKristi Hine True Dakotan Editorial Writing
This entry is the strongest blend of public-service purpose, persuasive clarity, and local accountability. The writing is disciplined, credible, and emotionally grounded without being melodramatic. These editorials demonstrate civic leadership, excellent structure, and a clear understanding of journalism’s duty to community trust.
Kristi Hine WSTD 02 19 25_A05.pdf, WSTD 09 10 25_A05.pdf, WSTD 08 13 25_A07.pdf
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EditorialDivision 3BEST EDITORIAL WRITING
1st Place
South Dakota Searchlight
Seth TupperThree editorials by Seth TupperTerrific essays that tell stories with human relationships. Excellent writing, convincing conclusions related to the focused issue, and relying on statements made by real people pro and con. Seth Tupper
The simple solution for South Dakota’s budget woes_ Restore the sales tax rate • South Dakota Searchlight.pdf, 'Big, beautiful' funding for Trump statue garden could put an ugly blemish in the Black Hills • South Dakota Searchlight.pdf, Political leaders too often enable violence after saying they condemn it • South Dakota Searchlight.pdf
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EditorialDivision 1BEST FEATURE PHOTO
3rd Place
Hamlin County Republican
LeeAnne DufekSenior Jamison KeszlerThe excitement by Jamison and the stands after an OT win is palatable!
LeeAnne Dufek
HCR Best Feature Photo - Dufek.pdf
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EditorialDivision 1BEST FEATURE PHOTO
2nd Place
True DakotanKristi Hine Smiles and Friendly Competition Highlight Foothills PlayDaysLoved the smiles and the comraderie between these siblings, along with the trust.
Having fun!!
Kristi Hine Foothills PLaydays 2025.jpg, WSTD 08 13 25_A01.pdf
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EditorialDivision 1BEST FEATURE PHOTO
1st Place
Freeman CourierJeremy WaltnerFlag and FireworksThis image gave me goosebumps!
Perfectly framed, and stands for so much right now!
Nice and sharp without a lot of noise using that high of an ISO.
Beautiful sentiments for America!
Jeremy Waltner
fc-2025-07-16 1A.pdf
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EditorialDivision 2BEST FEATURE PHOTO
3rd Place
Brandon Valley JournalJill MeierAn authentic, but soggy learning experienceHow cool (and difficult) is it to capture the moment of impact for a water balloon? My only complaint is this picture should have been played more prominently. Jill MeierJRNL05212025_A01.pdf
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EditorialDivision 2BEST FEATURE PHOTO
2nd Place
Custer County ChronicleEsther NoeGoing for the goldWhat a great picture to anchor the front page -- lots of enthusiasm pulses through the image along with confetti in mid-flight. The picture has great lines and framing.
Jason Fergusonn
Best Feature Photo_Custer County Chronicle_Esther Noe.pdf
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EditorialDivision 2BEST FEATURE PHOTO
1st Place
Madison Daily LeaderWren MurphyFlyer Day talent showHow can you top a picture of a kid that shows both motion and emotion? Simply captivating. Wren MurphyBest Feature Photo SOLO (Wren Murphy, Madison Daily Leader).jpg, Best Feature Photo (Wren Murphy, Madison Daily Leader).pdf
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EditorialDivision 3BEST FEATURE PHOTO
3rd Place
Mitchell RepublicAdam ThuryBoat parade I really enjoyed the uniqueness of this photo. A band director in a boat leading band members in their own boats. Great job in difficult lighting conditions.Luke Hagen8-15-25MarchingBandBoatParade-20.jpg
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EditorialDivision 3BEST FEATURE PHOTO
2nd Place
Aberdeen InsiderRobb GarofaloBusting MovesGreat job capturing the look on this boy's face as he holds on for dear life, it looks like. Really nice photo.
Scott Waltman
https://aberdeeninsider.com/gallery-check-out-the-sites-and-scenes-from-the-2025-brown-county-fair/20250814_AI_1A.pdf
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EditorialDivision 3BEST FEATURE PHOTO
1st Place
Aberdeen InsiderScott WaltmanFun bubbles overThe joy of foam and bubbles is captured in this delightful photo of a boy in the middle of it. What makes this photo is the facial expression and just bubbles everywhere. Nice job.
Scott Waltman
https://aberdeeninsider.com/gallery-check-out-the-sites-and-scenes-from-the-2025-brown-county-fair/20250821_AI_5A.pdf
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EditorialDivision 1BEST FEATURE SERIES
3rd Place
Marshall County JournalBridget ShilenyWhere the Saddle Still MattersInteresting series.. Strong agriculture ties to the community.
Bridget Shileny
Feature Series_Marshall County Journal_Bridget Shileny_2 of 2.pdf, Feature Series_Marshall County Journal_Bridget Shileny_1 of 2.pdf
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EditorialDivision 1BEST FEATURE SERIES
2nd Place
Onida WatchmanStaffOur Wisest PursuitStrong series promoting agriculture and those associated with it. Great variety. Good job.Sheila RingOur Wisest Pursuit.pdf
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EditorialDivision 1BEST FEATURE SERIES
1st Place
Reporter & FarmerLeyton BeardsleeThe buzz about beesInformative. Well written. Clear choice! The photos add to the package, too.
Amanda Dulitz
best feature series_Reporter & Farmer_Leyton Beardslee.pdf
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EditorialDivision 2BEST FEATURE SERIES
3rd Place
Mobridge TribuneClare SchoelermanDown Country RoadsInteresting stories and well-written.
Justin Petersen
Best Feature Story Series - Mobridge Tribune - Clare Schoelerman - Down Country Roads 1.pdf, Best Feature Story Series - Mobridge Tribune - Clare Schoelerman - Down Country Roads 2.pdf
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EditorialDivision 2BEST FEATURE SERIES
2nd Place
Madison Daily LeaderWren MurphyDomestic Violence NetworkThe stories were informative and well-written. Quality work in every way.Wren MurphyBest Feature Series (Part 1 of 2, Wren Murphy, Madison Daily Leader).pdf, Best Feature Series (Part 2 of 2, Wren Murphy, Madison Daily Leader).pdf
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EditorialDivision 2BEST FEATURE SERIES
1st Place
Brandon Valley JournalJill MeierGrandparents become Mom and DadThe writing is very good. The subject matter is interesting and the stories flow together well. Excellent work!Jill MeierBest Feature Series.pdf
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EditorialDivision 3BEST FEATURE SERIES
3rd Place
South Dakota News Watch
Molly WetschCloser look at SD film industryA three-part series that looks at South Dakota's role in the moviemaking industry. The key story is Pt. 2 on why many films about South Dakota are shot elsewhere, but the other two parts explore other aspects of movies and South Dakota.
Bart PfankuchThree in explanation
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EditorialDivision 3BEST FEATURE SERIES
2nd Place
Yankton Daily Press & Dakotan
Randy DockendorfCOVID: Five Years LaterA two-part series lokback about how local churches and a local nun monastery adapted to Covid during the pandemic. Enjoyable.
Kelly HertzBest Feature Series_Yankton Press & Dakotan_Randy Dockendorf.pdf
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EditorialDivision 3BEST FEATURE SERIES
1st Place
Mitchell RepublicJennifer Leither Jen's feature series A three-part series series exploring the lives of traveling healthcare workers. Informative and interesting look into an aspect of health care jobs that many might be unaware of.
Luke HagenJen, series3.pdf, Jen, series1.pdf, Jen, series2.pdf
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EditorialDivision 1BEST FEATURE STORY - NON-PROFILE
3rd Place
Tri-City StarDoug WermedalLocal connections to A-bomb remembered during Veteran's DayReally enjoyable read. I especially like the way you relate Tinian and Hiroshima to places your readers know ... more soldiers on Tinian than residemts of current day Brooking County, etc.
Having access to the historic photos really adds to the quality of your package.

Thanks for writing and submitting.
Doug Wermedal
featureNonProfile_TriCityStar_DougWremedal_2pages.pdf
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EditorialDivision 1BEST FEATURE STORY - NON-PROFILE
2nd Place
Prevailer NewsLeslie HladyszA closer look at the Keystone sewer plantLeslie Hladysz did an excellent job of breaking down the process, putting into layman's terms exactly why rates are going to increase and how elected officials came up wioth them.

The accompanying piece on the lift station fully beaks down the process and helps the reader understand that things are more complicated than simply flushing.

Excellent effort and a good read.
Jason Ferguson
Best Feature Story Non Profile_Hill City Prevailer News_Leslie Hladsyz.pdf
84
EditorialDivision 1BEST FEATURE STORY - NON-PROFILE
1st Place
Hamlin County Republican
LeeAnne DufekCommunity support helps spruce up Bryant TheaterWHAT A GREAT COMMUNITY STORY AND EFFORT, and to raise $85,000 in a town of less than 400.

You did an outstanding job of naming those who did work and recognizing the folks who pulled it off.

As somone who grew up in a town of 379 people and wtach the theatre close and deteriorate, kudos for saving an integral part of your town's history.
LeeAnne Dufek
HCR Best Feature Storey - NonProfile.pdf
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EditorialDivision 2BEST FEATURE STORY - NON-PROFILE
3rd Place
Custer County ChronicleJason FergusonWest Dam becoming a realityA new generation will make memories at West Dam. Nice job of intertwining the memories of the past with prospects for the future.
Jason Ferguson
Best Feature Story Nonprofile_Custer County Chronicle_Jason Ferguson.pdf
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EditorialDivision 2BEST FEATURE STORY - NON-PROFILE
2nd Place
Madison Daily LeaderWren Murphy'Strange bedfellows:' Anti-pipeline advocates working across party linesNeighbors bonding over a controversial pipeline. Good job blending quotes with facts about the pipeline.Wren MurphyBest Feature Non Profile (Wren Murphy, Madison Daily Leader).pdf
87
EditorialDivision 2BEST FEATURE STORY - NON-PROFILE
1st Place
Brandon Valley JournalJill MeierGood cookin' for a good causeIt sounds like they broke the mold when Ed Polzine was conceived. What a great event to honor Mr. Polzine, provide a benefit to the community and have a lot of fun in the meantime.Jill MeierBest Feature-Non-Profile.pdf
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EditorialDivision 3BEST FEATURE STORY - NON-PROFILE
3rd Place
Black Hills PioneerMark WatsonTarghee’s wayward adventures come to a close
Everybody loves a happy ending, especially about a lost dog (TWO MONTHS!), so this was fun to read. Great use of quotes. Would've liked to see a sidebar about how to foster or adopt. Suggest a follow-up in a year to see if little Targhee has given up his wandering ways.
Mark WatsonBestFeatureStory(non-profile)_BHPioneer_MarkWatson.pdf
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EditorialDivision 3BEST FEATURE STORY - NON-PROFILE
2nd Place
South Dakota News Watch
Megan LutherCalving goes high techBeautifully written feature story about calving using modern technology - and luck. Bravo!Bart Pfankuchhttps://www.sdnewswatch.org/high-tech-calving-cameras-south-dakota-agriculture/
90
EditorialDivision 3BEST FEATURE STORY - NON-PROFILE
1st Place
Aberdeen InsiderShannon MarvelHerreid miracleHeart-rending story told perfectly.
Scott Waltman
https://aberdeeninsider.com/herreid-girl-who-was-abused-at-3-months-now-walking-talking-miracle/20250605_AI_1A_5A.pdf
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EditorialDivision 1BEST FEATURE STORY - PROFILE
3rd Place
True DakotanKristi HineHoops, Highways and HeartThis is what local journalism is about, highlighting the local people. I loved this story and felt the passion from the grandparents. Written well!
93
EditorialDivision 1BEST FEATURE STORY - PROFILE
2nd Place
Marshall County JournalDoug CardAnother Chance at the DreamGreat example of making a national story local. This profile is not just about a pro football player, it's about a local on a national stage. Felt like I learned so much about this local football player.
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EditorialDivision 1BEST FEATURE STORY - PROFILE
1st Place
Freeman CourierJeremy WaltnerMike Peterson: A self-built, Americna-made pardoxWhat a story written well! You painted a picture of a community member and I was hooked from the first sentence.
95
EditorialDivision 2BEST FEATURE STORY - PROFILE
3rd Place
Grant County ReviewHolli SeehaferDeb Hemmer Concludes Diverse Career in NewspaperSomeone needs to tell our story and this entry did an excellent ob of doing that. Impressive work, impressive career. Very well done and necessary to tell about an ever changing important piece of AmericaHolli Seehaferfeature, profile_grantcountyreview_holli.seehafer_2of2.pdf, feature, profile_grantcountyreview_holli.seehafer_1of2.pdf
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EditorialDivision 2BEST FEATURE STORY - PROFILE
2nd Place
Fall River County HeraldBrett NachtigallCrash claims life of Edgemont school teacher, mother of two
What a wonderful tribute to a very special person gone too soon. A lot of life lived as the writer points out yet a lot of life taken away. Reading this you get to know how special she was and how she crammed a lifetime into a short time. Good but very sad read which is how it should be
Brett Nachtigall
Best Feature Profile_FRC Herald_Brett Nachtigall.pdf
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EditorialDivision 2BEST FEATURE STORY - PROFILE
1st Place
Madison Daily LeaderWren MurphyLinked by heartThe importance of doing something for others and in this case saving as well as preserving a life. Writer helps you get to know the people being featured and what results is a feel good story with a strong message. Good workWren MurphyBest Feature Story Profile (Wren Murphy, Madison Daily Leader).pdf
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EditorialDivision 3BEST FEATURE STORY - PROFILE
3rd Place
Rapid City JournalMadison WillisSilent scarsThis is a sensitive and courageous feature that offers a deeply personal look at the lasting impact of trauma, handled with restraint and empathy.Mike BrownleeSilent Scars_Page 1 of 2.pdf, Silent Scars_Page 2 of 2.pdf
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EditorialDivision 3BEST FEATURE STORY - PROFILE
2nd Place
Watertown CurrentRoger Whittle
Best Feature Story - Profile, Watertown Current, Roger Whittle, "Accident quiets..."
A compelling portrait that honors Mr. Blais while inviting readers to reflect on perseverance, identity, and adaptation in the face of life-altering accident.
Tucker Hermans
https://watertowncurrent.com/accident-quiets-his-body-but-not-his-spirit/Feature Story-Profile_Watertown Current_Roger Whittle_Accident quiets his body, but not his spirit.pdf
100
EditorialDivision 3BEST FEATURE STORY - PROFILE
1st Place
Mitchell RepublicLuke Hagen Luke, Neppls adoption journeyRich detail, careful pacing, and indelible moments — it's so clear how much trust this reporter built up with the Neppl family. Just a wonderful, emotional, powerful piece.Luke HagenLuke feature profile.pdf