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Journalists at The News-Press and Naples Daily News are celebrating a year of recognition across multiple categories—ranging from breaking news and investigative reporting to photography and beat writing. Honors came from long-established journalism organizations, including the Florida Society of News Editors, AP Sports Editors, and the Society of Professional Journalists Sunshine State Awards. But for the team, the accolades, while appreciated, are less significant than the support they receive from readers who regularly express gratitude and acknowledge the impact of their work.
Charles Runnells, features and entertainment reporter, explained that journalism awards today serve as affirmations of purpose, particularly at a time when trust in media is under scrutiny. For him, recognition is not about trophies but about reassurance that stories resonate and inform. Runnells emphasized that the ultimate goal is to serve the community with clarity, honesty, and dedication to the First Amendment.
At the July 2025 Florida Society of News Editors award luncheon, reporters Runnells and Amy Bennett Williams, Executive Editor Cindy McCurry-Ross, visual journalist Andrew West, and reporter Tomas Rodriguez celebrated together, a reflection of the newsroom’s team spirit. Williams, who covers the environment, highlighted that award-worthy stories combine craft and courage—clear writing, deep reporting, and the ability to amplify unheard voices. She stressed that photos and videos must also capture emotion and meaning to stand out.
Awards, the journalists note, reflect commitment to quality reporting, whether on environmental issues or law enforcement accountability. They highlight the depth of research, storytelling, and analysis required to make complex issues understandable. But the team insists that recognition from readers remains the greatest reward.
The newsroom describes awards as both a morale boost and a signal to the public that its journalists are credible professionals working with integrity. Yet they acknowledge that trust must be earned daily through accountability, tough questioning, and amplifying local voices. For Naples journalists, awards validate their craft, but the lasting measure of success is the trust and connection they continue to build with the community.
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