Time to consider contest entries

As 2021 draws to a close, it’s time to start considering entries for the next Texas Better Newspaper Contest, which opens for entries Feb. 1.
As part of the transition to an annual summer convention, the 2020-21 contest covers the period from Sept. 1, 2020, through Dec. 31, 2021.
To be eligible for the contest, the newspapers must be members in good standing at the time of entry in 2022 as well as during the contest period, 2020 and 2021.
Rules for the 2020-21 contest will be available for download online Jan. 1. Those interested in entering are encouraged to download the rules and read the guidelines for entries.
The entry period opens Feb. 1 on the BNC website. Deadline for entries is March 4. TPA member newspapers may submit entries from material published during the 16-month period ending Dec. 31, 2021.
The contest has 18 competition categories. Sweepstakes competition categories include advertising, column writing, editorial writing, feature photography, feature writing, general excellence, headline writing, news photography, news writing, page design, sports coverage and sports photography. Points for awards in competition categories are used to determine the sweepstakes winners in each division. Special award categories include best magazine, best website, community service, online live coverage, public notice and special section.
Contest fees are $10 per category entered.
Members are reminded that with the exception of the specific online categories, best website and online coverage, material entered must have been published in the newspaper’s print product — including photography categories.
Members of the West Virginia Press Association will judge the entries. In the spring, TPA member volunteers will be needed to judge entries in the West Virginia contest.
Awards will be presented during the Texas Press Association Convention and Trade Show July 28-30 in San Marcos. Plaques and certificates are awarded for first-place honors with certificates awarded for second- through fourth-place honors.
Beginning in 2022, the contest will return to a calendar year publication period.