The Maine Trust For Local News received several New England Newspaper & Press Association awards in the reporting, photojournalism, advertising and special section categories.

The awards were part of the 2025 New England Better Newspaper Competition, which was announced at a banquet during the New England Newspaper Convention held Saturday in Portsmouth, New Hampshire.

The Press Herald’s Dylan Tusinski, Eric Russell and former staff writer John Terhune received the first place award in the Housing News category for their story, ‘In Saco, the anatomy of a housing proposal toppled by residents.’

“Taken as a whole, the Press Herald does an outstanding job of examining different aspects of the housing crisis,” NENPA judges said in their comments. “Overall, the series is a significant contribution for anyone who wants to understand why Maine is beset with a housing shortage and what political and cultural obstacles stand in the way of solutions. These problems are not unique to Maine, and so the Press Herald’s reporting would be well worth studying by news organizations in other states.”

Press Herald staff also took home first place prizes in the Special Section/Advertising Supplement and Best Sponsored Content categories for advertising.

The Special Section award was for ‘Modern Pest — Missy on the Move.’

“Missy on the Move is FUN, engaging and works so well to highlight sponsored content! Fantastic concept!” judges said.

The Best Sponsored Content was for ‘Thank a Nurse.’

“With cohesive top banners throughout, engaging photography, a fantastic, appealing graphic format to present information in an interesting and memorable way….and the fact that it’s just a HUGE celebration of amazing caregivers. THIS section is a WINNER! Great job,” judges said.

Staff at the Sun Journal took second place in the Best Sponsored Content category while Morning Sentinel Staff took second place in the Special Section/Advertising Supplement category.

Press Herald columnist Leslie Bridgers won second place for her columns in the Serious Column category and staff writer Drew Bonifant finished second in the Sports Feature Story category for ‘Love of field hockey, and her teammates, keeps Falmouth senior going.’

Staff writer Gillian Graham won third place in the Human Interest Feature Story category for her story, ‘They’re the last cobblers left in Maine — and they’re busier than ever.’ Staff writer Megan Gray took third place in the Racial, Ethnic or Gender Issue Coverage category for ‘The first transgender woman to compete in Miss Maine is a farmer who loves to dance.’

Staff photographer Gregory Rec also received a third place award in the Personality Photo category for his photograph of Pandora LaCasse.