PORT LAVACA - Members of the Texas Gulf Coast and South Texas press associations announced contest awards, installed new officers and honored outstanding contributions when members gathered in Port Lavaca for a joint convention.

Journalists throughout Texas and across the U.S. lost a mentor and cheerleader with the death March 23 of Griff Singer, retired UT professor who trained and encouraged generations of Daily Texan staff members and students.

He was 93.

The city of Gatesville was drastically changed after a massive fire broke out in the downtown area, taking out nearly an entire city block and multiple historic businesses. The fire was originally reported to Gatesville authorities about 6:50 p.m.

The Gatesville Messenger has long been regarded as the premier chronicler of local history. The Messenger has often been described as having “deep roots” in the community and has been considered a cornerstone and a record of the history of Coryell County for well over a century.

Investigative Reporters & Editors (IRE) Executive Director Diana R. “DeeDee” Fuentes died unexpectedly March 20 from an accidental fall after attending an open records conference in Washington, D.C. during Sunshine Week.

She was 67.

In addition to vendors showcasing the latest in technology and services, this year’s TPA Convention and Trade Show offers general sessions covering important topics in the newspaper industry.

Events are scheduled June 18 - 20 at the Hyatt Regency DFW Airport Hotel.