Photographer Jenny Sparks has secured a notable achievement by placing second in the Best News Photo category at the Colorado Press Association contest. Her award-winning photograph captures students at Garfield Elementary School as they observe the 2024 solar eclipse, a moment that reflects both educational engagement and the wonder of science.
The image features students gazing skyward, equipped with protective eclipse glasses, as part of a ‘real-life learning’ lesson. Sparks’ ability to encapsulate such a significant event in a single frame has garnered recognition in the competitive environment of the Better News Media Contest, where the Reporter-Herald contended against other publications within its size division.
Additional Honors for BizWest and Its Contributors
In the same contest, BizWest also received accolades, showcasing the quality of journalism in the region. Christopher Wood earned first place in Serious Column Writing, demonstrating his skill in delivering impactful commentary. Meanwhile, Dallas Heltzell achieved second place in two categories: Environmental Writing for his insightful piece on Lyons and its ongoing recovery from the devastating 2013 floods, and Headline Writing, highlighting his creative prowess in titling compelling stories.
Another contributor, Sharon Dunn, received second place for her in-depth examination of the legal issues surrounding the Future Legends project. Her work adds valuable context to the discussions surrounding this significant initiative.
The recognition of these journalists underscores the importance of quality reporting and photography in informing the public. The awards reflect not only individual talent but also the dedication of news organizations like the Reporter-Herald and BizWest in delivering meaningful content to their communities.
As journalism continues to evolve, such accolades serve as a reminder of the power of storytelling and visual representation in capturing pivotal moments in society.
