The Claremont COURIER newspaper received notification of awards received in the 2012 California Newspaper Publishers Association (CNPA) Better Newspaper Contest. Seven first or second place awards and 5 honorable mentions were earned by COURIER staff for work produced from November 2011 to November 2012.

The CNPA sponsors the contest with daily and weekly publications competing in separate divisions based on circulation. There were a total of 28 categories this year, with approximately 3000 entries received from the 700 daily and weekly newspapers in California. The CNPA operates its offices in the state’s capital and is governed by a 35-member board of directors.

Staff awards include a first or second place award for the 2012 Almanac in the special section category. The COURIER was also a blue ribbon finalist in general excellence for a sampling of work submitted that was produced throughout 2012. Award notification of first or second place is received from the CNPA by mail, with the final announcements to be made at a CNPA lunch and awards show on Saturday, April 27.

In photography, Steven Felschundneff won either first or second place for his front page graphic illustration published October 10, 2012, titled “Drop by Drop: Your water bill explained.” Mr. Felschundneff was also honored in the category of photo essay for his work covering the city’s Fourth of July festivities. Blue ribbons in photography include news photo, artistic photo and sports photo.

Reporting awards went to Beth Hartnett in the local breaking news category for story “Longtime Claremonter looks to rebuild,” published April 11, 2012. Ms. Hartnett recounted the story of Anna Petrovich, an 86-year-old Claremont resident, whose neighbors came to her aid after her home was destroyed in a fire.

In the best investigative reporting category, reporter Sarah Torribio and editor Kathryn Dunn share a blue ribbon finalist distinction for their series of stories following the dismissal, rehiring and private investigation of former Sumner School principal Frank D’Emilio.

In layout and design, graphic artist Jenelle Rensch and Ms. Dunn share a first or second place honor for best page layout and design, Ms. Dunn also received a first or second place award for best front page, tabloid.

Publisher Peter Weinberger, the mastermind behind the COURIER website, took first or second in the best website category.

—Kathryn Dunn

editor@claremont-courier.com