The National Newspaper Association (NNA) recently announced winners for the 2019 Better Newspaper Contest, with The Fountain Hills Times earning three awards.

The local paper took first place in the nation for Best Classified Section, which is maintained by Tammie Ott. Reporter Bob Burns earned second place for Best Sports Photo for a shot he took during the November 2018 Orme Dam Victory Days Rodeo. Reporter Barb Charzuk earned second place for Best Feature Photo for her image of a hoop dancer during the January 2018 Magic Bird Arts and Crafts Festival.

The NNA divides papers from around the country into various divisions, with The Times competing in the non-daily division with circulation from 3,000 to 5,000.

Winners will be recognized during an awards ceremony on Oct. 5 at the NNA’s 133rd Annual Convention and Trade Show, which will this year be held in Milwaukee, Wis.

Between the editorial and advertising competitions, 1,510 entries were submitted from 36 states this year.

“Our staff works hard to put out a quality paper each week, and it’s always nice to see that effort recognized, especially at the national level by organizations such as the NNA,” said Publisher Brent Cruikshank. “We’re proud of Tammie, Barb and Bob’s achievements, as they once again bring recognition to the community of Fountain Hills.”

The Times has also entered the Arizona Newspaper Association’s Better Newspaper Contest, with winners to be announced in the coming months.