Rhode Island Press Association honors journalists for 2017 work

NORTH KINGSTOWN -- The Rhode Island Press Association Friday presented 139 awards to journalists throughout the state for writing, design and photography in its editorial contest for 2017.

The association also inducted four new members into its Journalism Hall of Fame: Katherine Gregg, State House reporter for The Providence Journal; Joe Baker, retired reporter for The Newport Daily News; the late Bob Thayer, photographer for The Providence Journal; and the late Peter Connell, sports writer and editor for Observer Publications Inc. and the Valley Breeze Observer.

During the annual banquet, held at the Quonset “O” Club, the press association elected officers for next year: James Bessette of Providence Business News will remain as president of the organization; Michael McDermott of The Providence Journal will remain vice president; Sarah Francis of Rhode Island Monthly will remain as treasurer; and Linda Lotridge Levin, University of Rhode Island, emeritus, will remain as secretary.

The categories and award winners can be found by clicking here.