Regions: Ohio, Delaware, Maryland, District of Columbia, Kentucky, Tennessee, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Alabama, Georgia, Florida
West Division Central Division
East Division
CENTRAL
■ ALEX GARY
■ SAFETY CAMPAIGN PROMOTES MOTORCYCLE AWARENESS
■ “SLO MILES” CAMPAIGN
■ EXHIBIT FOR LOCAL LIBRARY
■ CONGRATULATIONS ON EARNING THE SHRM-CP DESIGNATION!
■ SHARING MEDIA KNOWLEDGE
■ NATIONAL RECOGNITION FOR NICK ROHLMAN
■ IOWA REGION NAVIGATED THE TRANSITION
■ CONGRATULATIONS LAILA!
■ NEW HIRE & PROMOTION
■ TERRY MILES EXCEEDS GOAL
■ KEMP PROMOTED
■ NEIL JOHNSON
P20
WEST
■ ADAMS ASSIST TEAM
■ RETIREMENT CELEBRATION
■ CAMERON MARTINEZ
■ IDAHO PRESS CLUB AWARDS
■ REGIONAL SPJ CONTEST
P29
PROFESSIONAL ETIQUETTE FOR VIDEO MEETINGS
As we continue to leverage video conferencing for internal and external meetings, it is essential that all employees adhere to professional standards to maintain a productive and respectful virtual environment. This guidance ensures all Video meetings reflect our company’s professionalism.
BEFORE THE MEETING
- PUNCTUALITY: Join the meeting a few minutes early to ensure your audio and video are working properly.
- ATTIRE : Dress as you would for an in-person business meeting.
- LOCATION AND BACKGROUND: Choose a quiet, well-lit space. Ensure your background is professional, neutral, and non-distracting and free from visible messaging that could be perceived as political or otherwise controversial.
DURING THE MEETING
- MUTE WHEN NOT SPEAKING: Always keep your microphone muted when you are not actively talking to eliminate background noise (keyboard typing, ambient noise, etc.).
- CAMERA USE : Keep your video camera on for all required meetings to encourage engagement and connection.
- FOCUS: Avoid multitasking. Give your full attention to the meeting, maintain eye contact with your camera, and minimize all other distractions.
- SPEAKING clearly and at a moderate pace. Do not interrupt others; use the “raise hand” feature for a pause conversation.
REMINDER OF UPCOMING COMPANY HOLIDAYS
LABOR DAY
Monday, September 7th, 2026
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to be featured in the quarterly newsletter.
QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER SUBMISSIONS
Are due on the 10th of the month preceding publication. For 2026, release months are January, April, July, and October.
HUMAN RESOURCES
THE BASICS OF ELDER CARE PLANNING
As your parents or other relatives age, you may find yourself transitioning into a new role as a caregiver. Whether you live down the street or across the country, you may become suddenly responsible for many different aspects of your relative’s care, such as medical, legal and financial concerns.
An elder care plan can be a helpful resource for you, your family and your elder. This care plan maps out the areas where assistance is needed and can help you to divide responsibilities among family members. In order for this care plan to be effective, everyone should be involved in the planning process, including your elder. By getting everyone’s input upfront, you can help to ensure that the care plan is acceptable to everyone. Read more to learn about the basics of creating an elder care plan.
Deciding if the Time is Right to Help
It can be difficult to determine how your elder will react to your offers to help since such offers can signal a decline in independence. Communication is an important factor in helping an elderly relative or friend. Begin by talking with your elder about his or her physical and mental states and ask where the elder feels assistance might be needed. Some things to consider are:
• Everyday activities: Some elders simply need or want some help with simple chores, such as cooking, cleaning or shopping. Others need more extensive assistance with daily activities, such as bathing, eating and medication administration. The amount and type of assistance that your elder needs can help to guide you in your search for appropriate care.
• Driving: Many elders continue to drive long after they are able to safely operate a vehicle. The independence that comes along with a driver’s license can be difficult to give up. Some signs to watch out for are a high number of at-fault accidents, unexplained scratches or dents in the car or getting lost on a more frequent basis. If you feel that your elder should no longer drive, consider enlisting the help of his or her physician; sometimes an expert’s opinion can be helpful.
• Physical appearance: Your elder’s physical appearance can give you some clues as to how he or she is functioning on a daily basis. If your elder seems to be getting thin, perhaps a meal program would help him or her to eat better and more regularly. Also, look for signs such as unexplained cuts or bruises or a general decline in grooming habits.
• Emotional state: A depressed or lonely mood can be a signal for a lot of issues. Your elder may need to talk with his or her physician to determine the cause of these moods. Or, he or she may need to find more social outlets, such as senior centers or independent-living retirement communities.
Talking directly with your elder can provide him or her with the reassurance that you care and only have your elder’s best interests at heart. If you show that you are really listening upfront, your elder may feel more comfortable talking to you about needing help in the future.
Building a Care Network
It is near impossible for one person to cover all aspects of an elder’s care without assistance. In order to help avoid getting burned out,
you may want to build up a network of people and resources that are available to assist both you and your elder.
Some aspects of creating this network include:
• Identifying the “primary“ caregiver
• Enlisting help from trusted friends, neighbors and family
• Dividing responsibilities among available caregivers
• Researching local community resources
• Discussing the situation with your elder’s physician
Determining Care Needs
The following questions can be useful in helping to determine the types of care that your elder needs:
• Can your elder safely continue to live in his or her current residence? Can your elder afford to continue living in his or her current residence? Does your elder want to move from his or her current residence or does he or she want to remain there?
• Does your elder need help with activities of daily living, also called ADLs?
• What medical conditions does your elder have? What types of care may be needed in the future in order to manage these conditions?
• Are there finances available to cover future medical needs?
• Are wills, advance directives and trusts in order? Do you know where they are kept?
• Can your elder continue to drive safely or is transportation assistance needed?
Creating a List of Emergency Contacts
Everyone involved in some aspect of your elder’s care, including the elder, should have an updated emergency contact list. This list should include contact information for:
• Family members
• Doctors and hospitals
• Financial planners
• Attorney
• Neighbors and friends
• Geriatric care worker, if available
You should also ensure that you know the location of all important medical, legal and financial records, as well as maintaining a set of keys to both your elder’s home and car.
Resources
For more information about elder care planning, or to locate resources in your area, contact the Eldercare Locator at https://eldercare.acl.gov/ Public/Index.aspx.
Everything you need to take control of your health
We’re with you every step of the way with the support, tools and resources you need to navigate your health journey. These resources can also be found on your member website at bluecrossmn.com/BCA
HUMAN RESOURCES
Care Advocacy
Get help with all your healthcare needs from your Blue Cross Care Advocate. They’re supported by on-site doctors, nurses, pharmacists, specialists and other experts so if they don’t know the answer to your question, they can get it.
• Get to know and understand your benefits and network
• Find health care providers and arrange appointments
• Compare and understand treatment options
• Determine if a recommended procedure is covered
• Answer questions about claims
• Transfer medical records
• Set and meet health goals
Call 1-866-873-5943, TTY 711 or log into your member account to live chat, Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Central Time.
Blue Care AdvisorSM
There’s nothing more important than your health, and Blue Care Advisor can help you with your healthcare journey every step of the way. Blue Care Advisor connects you to everything you need to easily manage your healthcare, meet your goals and live healthier.
• Find quality in-network providers near you
• Know how much care will cost before you see a doctor
• Understand your health plan
• Take your digital ID card on-the-go
To get started, download the mobile app or go to bluecrossmn.com/BCA
HUMAN RESOURCES
Nurse line
Get professional medical advice and information from registered nurses 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Call 1-800-622-9524, TTY 711
Online care
Access board-certified doctors, psychiatrists and psychologists with Doctor on Demand® via smartphone, tablet or computer.
Visit doctorondemand.com/bluecrossmn Doctor On Demand® by Included Health is an independent company providing telehealth services.
Health management
Receive professional support for managing chronic or serious health conditions. Includes education, treatment plan support and community resource information.
Call 1-877-258-3738
Maternity management
Receive support and guidance from a maternity case manager. Call 1-800-793-6916
Quitting tobacco and vaping
Take advantage of personalized guidance in making a quit plan and receive ongoing support from a wellness coach.
Visit bluecrossmn.com or call 1-888-662-BLUE (2583), TTY 711
Care coordination for gender services
Connect with the Gender Services Team to discuss gender-related care options, health plan coverage and providers.
Visit bluecrossmn.com/GenderCare or call 1-866-694-9361
(10/25)
FOR
A
HEALTHIER TOMORROW, SCHEDULE YOUR PREVENTIVE VISIT TODAY
The best time to start thinking about your health is before you get sick, and routine checkups can catch health problems early. Learn more at bluecrossmn.com/Visits
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Ask Your Advocate Team
Maximize your healthcare benefits with the help of a team of licensed healthcare advocates. Gallagher is ready to help you get the most from your benefits program by providing support from an advocate at no cost to you. Get assistance with:
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Do you need help with specific benefits questions relating to how plans work, coverage questions or in-network benefits?
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Claim/complex issues
Are you unsure if your insurance will pay for a certain procedure? Do you have a complex situation and need assistance with an appeal, billing coding issue or out-of-network claim?
7 Nurse advocacy
Do you need assistance with a medical diagnosis, treatment options, pre-authorization issues, specific benefits or drug denial?
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COMPLETION OF 2025 – 2026
CPR TRAINING
Employees in Cedar Rapids, Iowa participating in CPR trainee in June.
Adams MultiMedia would like to thank and recognize more than 260 associates that have completed either the online or blended learning CPR course through the AmericanRed Cross within the past year. As an update to the CPR article in a previous newsletter, we would like to thank all participants who completed this life-saving
FLORIDA
Cynthia Acevedo
Gabriel Camarillo
Linda Carwile
Jordan Davis
Allan Forsyth
Chris Germann
Joanne Hackney
Alfred Kahn
Julie Lloyd
Loretta May
Marie Merchant
Jim Merchant
Marion Murray
Pete Muzzonigro
Toneishia Nealon
Chloe Nelson
Tristan Nelson
Diane O Gorman
David Oswald
Ylssa Ramos
Jason Santore
Danielle Sellers
Sheila Spriggs
training in 2026.
As a special shout out here, let’s also thank Heather McCalmont, HR Manager for Southern WI, OH, and MD for conducting the most recent training for Cedar Rapids, IA!
Eric Titus
Celeste Tobey
Chris Weber
Tracy Weikel
James Welsch
Shy Whitney
Noah Whitney
Amanda Young
Chad Zander
IOWA
Briana Castellanos
Bob Cunningham
Joann Dodson
Nicole French
Rick Green
Jessica Hamel
Andrea Kula
Grace Menke
Cara Moore
Vicky Ney
Kenneth Pilcher
Tammy Rhinderknecht
Amy Smith
Holly Thompson
NORTH CAROLINA
Grace Ahlers
Kellie Alexander
Kim Asby
Kelly Ayscue
Kim Bandy
Kenzie Bryant
Bobby Burns
Amy Daniels
Gwen Davis
Parker Eason
Lauren Ennis
Kevin Gavin
Kim Grizzard
Matt Guthrie
Mary Beth Hemby
Jessie Joyner
Jake Pollard
Christina Spencer
Herman Spruill
Patricia St.Clair
Kyle Stephens
WELCOME
AUTUMN MANTOOTH
Welcome Autumn Mantooth to the News-Herald & Connection Advertising Team
Please join us in welcoming Autumn Mantooth to the Lenoir City News-Herald & Connection as our newest Multi-Media Advertising Executive. Autumn started May 4, 2026.
Autumn is a recent graduate of Maryville College, where she played tennis and was a member of the cheerleading team. Prior to joining our team, she worked in sales at Print FX, a local printing company. She is ready to hit the ground running.
Welcome aboard, Autumn!
WELCOME
RYAN MCCAFFERTY
Carroll News Introduces New Sports Writer
The Carroll News is excited to welcome Ryan McCafferty to its staff. His primary focus is on covering sports, but he will also cover community activities at times.
Ryan has always said that he’s not most journalists, which is to say that being important isn’t really all that important to him. His job isn’t about chasing the glitz and glamour of covering world-famous superstars; it’s about telling stories that capture the heart and soul of the community he serves.
Ryan was raised in Herndon, Va. and spent the past several years in nearby Fairfax — D.C. suburbia to its core. For the past four years, he’s covered Meridian High School in Falls Church — and one of his very first assignments was the 2022 Class 3 State Finals for girls basketball, in which Carroll County defeated the Mustangs. He has covered George Mason University men’s basketball on a part-time basis, and has contributed to online publications such as FanSided, Yardbarker and TheSportingNews.com.
AMM EAST
THE DAILY POST ATHENIAN
BEST OF PREPS
The Daily Post Athenian held the Best of Preps Athletic Awards on Sunday, April 26th. There were around 75 students nominated with 28 winners. More than 200 athletes and their families showed up for the event. The emcee was Chattanooga Tennessee’s News Channel 9’s sports anchor, Darrell Patterson.
GABE GARCIA
L to R: Rebecca Hjulberg, Sharon Livingston, Tina Huckabey, Angela Alvarez.
THE CARROLL NEWS
GEMINI AWARDS
The annual Gemini Awards ceremony, sponsored by The Carroll News, took place at the First Methodist Church of Hillsville on the last Wednesday of March 2026. The church’s meeting room was nearly full to capacity, as business owners from throughout the twin counties came to collect their Reader’s Choice awards and enjoy lunch provided by Aunt Bea’s Barbecue.
Serena Bowman, General Manager of the Carroll News, acted as Master of Ceremonies for the event.
“Since 1920, The Carroll News has delivered local coverage to the twin counties,” said Bowman. “… Our core audience sitting here in this room is vital to our longevity and we cannot thank you enough for your support. Every community needs great education, great healthcare and great community news coverage to thrive and everyone sitting in this room has a part in making the twin counties a great place to live.”
Some local government officials made their way to Wednesday’s luncheon, including Carroll County Administrator Mike Watson and County Supervisor Jody Early and his wife Susan. Several individuals from the Carroll County Central School Board office came as well, which was appropriate as school Superintendent Dwayne Huff made the keynote speech at the event.
William “Bill” Alley, CEO of Twin County Regional Healthcare, the Premier Sponsor for this year’s Gemini Awards, addressed the audience and spoke about the dedication of his workforce. He brought along several members of his staff including Dr. Robert Menezes, who won the Gemini Award for Best General Physician. Twin County Regional Healthcare directly employs approximately 400 people and won three Gemini Awards
including best Outpatient Rehabilitation Services, best Large Business/Corporation and best Cardiac Rehabilitation Services.
“I think the Gemini Awards are a wonderful thing,” said Hal Hanks of the Vaughn-Guynn-McGrady Funeral Home, which won the Reader’s Choice Award for Funeral Home and Services. “All the recognition from peers and our community means a lot. Hillsville is really going through a rebirth right now. It’s looking good. They’re doing a lot of work and I’m glad to see those things happening.”
“I’m surprised I won and I’ll be back next year,” said Raul Garcia of Monkey Wrench Repairs, which won the Gemini Readers Choice Award for Auto Repairs.
“I thought the luncheon was tasteful,” said Toni McSwain of Virginia Mountain Realty, who won the Gemini Readers Choice Award for best Real Estate Agent and Real Estate Company. “I thought it was dignified. I thought it was extremely prestigious for our small town and I was really honored. My staff was honored that we all could attend. I think Aunt Bea’s did a beautiful job and we really enjoyed it. Everything was very well done. I liked it. Very professional... a nice level of excellence.”
“I think it’s terrific to see the community come together,”, said Jonathan McGrady, of the McGrady and McGrady law firm. Jonathan McGrady’s firm won the People’s Choice Award for Attorney Services and Jonathan himself won the Gemini Award for Best Boss. “When these are the voters from your newspaper and your readers, it means a great deal. And I think the biggest thing about this community is the fact that we all come together. We work together for what’s in our community’s best interest, and it’s very vital that we have a local newspaper like you guys, keeping your eyes and ears on everything.”
William Paine presenting certificate to Toni McSwain.
Carroll Gemini Awards 2026 room.
AMM EAST
THE DAILY TIMES
ASSIST TRAINING
SOUTHEAST OHIO BUSINESS MATTERS
CERTIFICATE OF MERIT
Kathy Barnes
THE NEWPORT PLAIN TALK
Kathy Barnes, of the The Newport Plain Talk, has been awarded a Certificate of Merit Award by the Tennessee Historical Commission for her work at the Roadman Cemetery in Newport, TN.
Barnes was one of 16 recipients recognized for exemplary work to further promote historic preservation or the study of history in Tennessee.
Barnes said her cemetery cleanup efforts started in 2023, when NPT received emails and letters about the cemetery.
“I decided something needed to be done,” Barnes said.
So, she started writing articles about the cemetery’s condition, which led her to Channing Greene, who was cleaning a neglected cemetery in Bridgeport. The two started cleaning cemeteries together and went through training on how to properly clean headstones.
“We learned how to repair damaged headstones. I have helped cut brush, vines and overgrowth from cemeteries. We even started Tennessee Historic Graveyard Preservation and Conservation Services to take care of cemeteries. Our website is tennesseegraveyard.com,” Barnes said.
Barnes described Roadman Cemetery as one of their biggest projects due to the severity of its condition.
The cemetery, which is about an acre and a half, is home to the graves of Revolutionary War, War of 1812, and Civil War veterans.
In 2025, Barnes said she organized four cleanup days and saw 30 to 40 volunteers per day. So far in 2026, she said she’s hosted three cleanup days, with about 30 volunteers per day.
“Roadman Cemetery will be finished this year. We are fundraising to put a fence around it and to build a kiosk that details the history and the significance of the cemetery and those buried there,” Barnes said.
East Division Digital Director Wendy Bretz traveled to Idaho in April to participate in Assist Training. Also pictured from left to right are Rob Ireland, VP New Business for AMM Wisconsin; Ben Childers, Central Division Digital Director; and Brian Doane, Regional President Wyoming.
PHOTO BY BENJAMIN RING
“I took this photo at Ash Cave in Hocking Hills. It captured a moment that made time stand still.”
WATAUGA DEMOCRAT
The Watauga Democrat held our Best of the Best ceremony in April with the special section coming out April 29. We had approximately 300 people in attendance, which made it the largest event to date. It was also the best one ever on the sales side. This is one of three Best Of Events we do in the High Country region (Ashe is in the beginning of the year and Avery is in August).
MOUNT AIRY NEWS
THE MOUNT AIRY NEWS READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS 2026
Nearly 200 people attended the annual Mount Airy News Readers Choice Awards — known as the Mounties — celebrating the top businesses, services, and professionals in a variety of fields from the Greater Mount Airy area.
The audience was a wide mix of local officials, professionals, business owners and employees who turned out to celebrate the annual honor, recognizing those businesses and individuals who have left a major impression on their customers. Among the crowd were folks from throughout the region — from Elkin, across Surry County, Mount Airy, and into Carroll County, Virginia. Many were on hand as repeat winners of the awards, though several were being honored for the first time in the two decade history of the awards.
PERRY COUNTY TRIBUNE
CHAMBER SPRING BANQUET
Perry County Tribune Participates in Chamber Spring Banquet
The Perry County Tribune was a proud participant in the Perry County Chamber of Commerce Spring Banquet held in April at Rustic Charm Barn in New Lexington.
The event brought together local businesses, community leaders, and organizations from across Perry County for an evening centered around community connection, celebration, and support for local students.
Representing The Perry County Tribune at the event were GM/Advertising Director Brenda Carney, Editor Jim Phillips, and Multi-Media Advertising Account Executives Stefani Young and Lyzzi O’Neill. The team enjoyed the opportunity
to connect with fellow Chamber members, local business owners, and community partners while continuing to strengthen relationships throughout Perry County.
One of the highlights of the evening was the basket raffle benefiting the Perry County Chamber of Commerce Scholarship Program. Through support from the community and participating businesses, the Chamber is able to award four scholarships annually to graduating seniors from all four Perry County high schools.
Events like the Spring Banquet continue to showcase the importance of local partnerships and community involvement. The Perry County Tribune values the opportunity to participate in events that celebrate and support the people, businesses, and students who help make Perry County strong.
Question:
What was the first newspaper printed in the American colonies?
SEND IN YOUR ANSWER FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN
Submit your answer to askhr@adamsmultimedia.com
The winner will be drawn in August 2026.
LOGAN DAILY NEWS
6TH ANNUAL HOCKING COUNTY SENIOR EXPO
The Logan Daily News hosted their 6th Annual Hocking County Senior Expo at the newly renovated historic Logan Theater in downtown Logan, bringing together local businesses, healthcare providers, organizations, and community members for a successful day focused on senior resources, wellness, and community connection.
The event welcomed more than 30 vendors and about 150 attendees from the area. Seniors had the opportunity to visit with businesses and organizations offering services specifically geared toward them.
In addition to vendor interaction, attendees also had access to health screenings, making the expo both informative and impactful for those who attended.
Hosting the event inside the beautifully restored Logan Theater added to the overall experience, highlighting one of downtown Logan’s historic landmarks while creating a comfortable and engaging venue for the community gathering.
THE DAILY TIMES
RETIREMENT CELEBRATED
Lisa Smith and Theresa Gresham were valued members of our Customer Care team who consistently demonstrated professionalism, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to providing exceptional service and support to our customers.
Both Lisa and Theresa played a significant role in our team’s success and culture. Their knowledge, experience, and willingness to help others made a lasting impact on both their colleagues and the customers they served. Beyond their professional contributions, their humor, positive attitudes, and engaging personalities brought joy to the workplace and made every team meeting more enjoyable.
They were truly dedicated team members who cared deeply
The Expo continues to serve as an important community event for the Logan Daily News, reinforcing its commitment to connecting local residents with valuable information, resources, and businesses that support quality of life throughout Hocking County.
The strong turnout and positive feedback from both vendors and attendees once again demonstrated the importance of creating opportunities for seniors to engage directly with local organizations and services in a meaningful, face-to-face environment.
about their work and those around them. Lisa and Theresa will be dearly missed, and their contributions to our team will not be forgotten. We are grateful for the time we had the opportunity to work alongside such remarkable women.
Theresa Gresham (left) and Lisa Smith hold their retirement cake at a get-together held for the two at The Daily Times office in Alabama.
AMM EAST
ATHENS MESSENGER
LOCAL JOB FAIR
Athens Messenger Connects with Community at Local Job Fair
The Athens Messenger joined with other local businesses to participate in a local job fair held at the Athens Community Center, taking advantage of a strong opportunity for community engagement, networking, and outreach.
Throughout the event, team members Paula Keplar and Robert Enyard welcomed a steady flow of attendees who stopped by our booth to learn more about Adams MultiMedia and The Athens Messenger, the services we provide, and the important role local media continues to play in our communities. Many conversations centered around current employment opportunities within our organization, generating strong interest from potential candidates interested in joining our team.
One of the highlights of the event was the opportunity for attendees to receive complimentary professional headshots. This added value was well received by job seekers looking to strengthen their professional presence while preparing for future career opportunities.
In addition to recruitment efforts, the event created valuable networking opportunities with local businesses and community organizations. Conversations extended beyond hiring into marketing needs, advertising opportunities, branding strategies, and upcoming community events and ways The Athens Messenger can help businesses better connect with local audiences through our print and digital platforms.
Overall, the event was a successful reminder of the importance of community presence and personal connection.
ADAMS MULTIMEDIA CHESAPEAKE
WINS 22 PRESS ASSOCIATION AWARDS
The editorial staff of Adams MultiMedia Chesapeake took home 22 awards at a regional press association contest last month, including Best Move of 2025.
The awards were announced during the Maryland-Delaware-DC, or MDDC, Press Association’s annual ceremony Friday, May 8, in Annapolis. The association represents more than 100 news organizations in the region.
The contest, split into six divisions, recognized the best print and online work completed in 2025. Nearly 1,600 entries across 86 categories were judged by news media professionals at the Florida State Press Association.
The Star Democrat won Best Move of 2025 for its new daily emailed newsletter, which combined strong data analytics and local content to create a useful product with clear revenue gains. The winner was determined by audience vote.
Publications across Adams MultiMedia have initiated the daily newsletters, supplying readers with a round-up of timely, local stories. To learn more, watch Adams MultiMedia’s Orestes Baez and Betsy Griffin appearance on MDDC’s podcast discussing the newsletter move. Sign up for The Star Democrat’s daily newsletter here.
Along with Best Move, The Star Democrat took home eight awards in Division D.
Sports editor Biff Haufe won first in the Sports Story and Sports Column categories. His column, “Easton’s cradle king stood for more than wins and losses,” won Best of Show, beating out the other first-place sport columns across all divisions.
Reporter Ahmad Garnett took home first place in Religion Reporting and Sports Video. Reporter Lily Tierney secured the top spot in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, and managing editor Konner Metz won first in Feature Story: Non-Profile.
The Star Democrat’s Eli Wohlenhaus
and Meredith Moore won first in the Advertising-driven Special Publication category for their work on Shore Magazine. Wohlenhaus and Jennifer Quinn placed second in the same category.
Also in Division D, Cecil Whig’s former sports editor, Patrick LaPorte, swept the Sports Photo (Action) category, winning both first and second, and placed second in Sports Photo (Feature). Senior reporter Carl Hamilton took home second in the Feature Story: Profile category, while senior reporter Jane Bellmyer notched second in State Government.
Southern Maryland News won three awards in the same division: reporter Marty Madden placed second for General News Story and reporter Riley Dauber also placed second for Public Service. Columnist Megan Johnson won first place in Local Column: Feature or Humor for her piece,
“I’ll always be my father’s daughter.”
In Division F, the Bay Times and RecordObserver secured three awards. Reporter Andrea Grabenstein was named first in Arts and Entertainment Reporting and second in the Headline category. Senior editor Hannah Combs notched second in Growth and Land Use Reporting.
Rounding out the awards, the Kent County News took home two. Will Bontrager won first in Local Government in Division F. Combs won again, placing second in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion for her profile on Vita Foods.
“I am incredibly proud of the work our newsroom reporters and advertising teams produce,” said Baez, regional president of Adams MultiMedia Chesapeake. “They both work incredibly hard to connect with our community and this kind of recognition just helps cement their efforts.”
AMM CENTRAL
ALEX GARY
BELOIT DAILY NEWS
Beloit Daily News reporter
Alex Gary recently was featured on a National Public Radio (NPR) broadcast in which he summarized some of the top stories in Beloit, Wisconsin and in the Stateline Area.
Morning Edition host Jason Cregier, based at WNIJ in DeKalb, Illinois, interviewed Gary about local government, business development
and other happenings in the area. Gary spoke about the continued construction of the Ho-Chunk tribal casino, scheduled for completion in September, proposals for data centers in the Town of Beloit and Janesville, the search for a new Beloit city manager and more. The interview served as a great cross-media promotion for the Beloit Daily News.
HOMETOWNSOURCE.COM
SAFETY CAMPAIGN PROMOTES MOTORCYCLE AWARENESS
Adams MultiMedia of East Central Minnesota held its second annual passive marketing campaign to promote motorcycle awareness on Minnesota highways this past May. There have already been 54 fatal vehicle crashes and 102 fatalities in the first three months of this year. Last year there were 342 fatal crashes and 363 lives claimed. The year 2024 was even more deadly, with 475 deaths. As drivers, many of us are terribly distracted.
From 2019 to 2023, the State Patrol reports that 1 in 11 crashes were a result of distracted driving. It would be terribly unfortunate for any of us to be injured because of our own distracted driving, but the odds are much higher that our inattentive driving is going to expand beyond our personal bubble and likely lead to an injury or death for somebody else.
Last year we introduced See Me Saturday on May 24 as a way for drivers to pay particular attention to motorcycles on our highways. It is a simple messaging campaign to awaken our senses. That weekend before Memorial Day is a kickoff to summer and bikers will flock to the roadways for the next four months.
Two years ago we lost colleague Dave Searcy in a motorcycle accident. Raising awareness about motorcycles is
our effort not only to keep his memory alive, but also to hopefully prevent more lives from being lost.
The act of creating safer roads is a shared responsibility among cars and bikers. But a distracted driver in a car is much more dangerous to a motorcyclist than a cyclist is to a car and its occupants. The metal shell simply is not there on a motorcycle.
It’s also true that motorcycles are much harder to see, and they seem to come out of nowhere. That’s why it’s so important to remind ourselves that this is the season for biking.
See Me Saturday is just one day to collectively pay attention to the bikers on our roads. In 2024, Dave was one of 76 motorcyclists who died on Minnesota roadways. Last year, another 57 were killed.
None of us wakes up one morning thinking we’ll be the cause of an accident. See Me Saturday is one day we can all vow to pay attention, avoid an accident, and maybe save a life.
THE GAZETTE
“SLO MILES” CAMPAIGN
Two Gazette sports reporters, Jeff Linder and Madison Hricik, ran Cedar Rapids’ June 8 half-marathon in honor of a stricken colleague. The two organized the “Slo Miles” campaign to raise money for our longtime photo editor and talented friend, Jim Slosiarek.
Earlier this year, Jim was diagnosed with inoperable brain
EDITOR HELPS WITH
cancer. In Jeff’s words: “A race became a cause.”
Pre-race stories and columns generated a buzz -- and more than $8,000 in community contributions!
We believe our associates define the success of our organization. Jim and Madison proved, one step at a time, that human kindness is alive and well in our ONE IOWA organization.
“Leprechauns: Cute as a Button,” an exhibit of Rosemount Leprechaun Days button contest artwork, is on display in Robert Trail Library gallery during regular operating hours June 1 through Leprechaun Days, July 18-25.
The artwork includes designs submitted by local students and images of the completed buttons over the years.
Since 2013, the Dakota County Tribune and Sun Thisweek have been working with Rosemount Middle School teachers to have students create the leprechaun that’s been featured on buttons sold as a fundraiser for the Rosemount Area Seniors and the Leprechaun Days Committee.
Leprechaun Days, which was started in 1979, didn’t always have a button, but people can find the first one and more at the library.
The Leprechaun Days Committee created the early buttons, and the newspaper’s design staff was asked to assist around 2000.
The
AMM CENTRAL
CONGRATULATIONS ON EARNING THE SHRM-CP DESIGNATION!
Therese Zadnik-Klecker, HR Manager for Iowa, MN and Northern WI has officially earned her SHRM-CP designation. She has been studying for the past year and recently sat for the 4-hour exam on May 7, 2026.This achievement is a testament
to her dedication, technical knowledge and her commitment to high ethical standards. To maintain her certification, she will earn continuing education credits every three years by attending the annual SHRM conference and other regional HR events.
From left, Kristi
Jill
Max
and Al
all helped staff a booth at the annual Career Exploration Fair and
Community Expo earlier this year. The Patriot participated in the event that attracted more than 1,000 students who were looking for more information about careers in various industries.
SHARING MEDIA KNOWLEDGE WITH INTERESTED STUDENTS
Staff at the Patriot in Waconia, Minnesota, had a successful day at the 2026 Career Exploration Fair and Waconia Community Expo earlier this year.
The event attracted more than 1,000 students from across the area, exposing them to more than 115 businesses that participated, including the Patriot, a member of the Adams MultiMedia East Central Minnesota group.
MultiMedia Account Executives Kristi Pexa and Jill Heath helped staff a booth at the event, along with editorial staff Al Lohman and Max Kappel.
An additional 1,200 community members attended the expo. AMM staff had a chance to meet with students and provide them with insights to the industry that sparked interest about a possible future in media.
Proceeds from the event help support the newly established Waconia Chamber Foundation, designed to strengthen the community and businesses at large. It will support Waconia High School scholarships and workforce initiatives that connect students with the careers and opportunities in our community.
Pexa,
Heath,
Kappel
Lohman
Waconia
THE GAZETTE
National recognition for NICK ROHLMAN
Please join me in congratulating Nick Rohlman for capturing second place in the National Press Photographers “Best of Photojournalism” Politics Singles category. His award-winning photo shows a protestor outside Rep. Ashley Hinson event in Independence holding up a sign that says: “We are not OK.” Nick’s photo was bookended in the awards by national news organizations -- Getty Images and Reuters -- with photos of Trump in the category, which drew hundreds of entries. While Nick’s photo does not have the protestor’s face, the silhouette of the hand holding up the sign speaks volumes. Take a look at how Nick’s photo is in good company with Trump in the Oval Office and the iconic photo of Trump and JD Vance berating Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy: https://bop.nppa.
Gazette photographers, among the best in the business, produce great work every day to help our readers understand the world around them. Their photos capture a story in a single image, helping lead readers to the words our reporters write.
Congratulations to Nick and the entire Gazette photo team for the work they do every day.
Jim Johnson
Managing
Editor
Phone: 651-347-0478
Email: jim.johnson@thegazette.com
Address: 116 3rd Street SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52401
A protestor holds a sign up to the window as Rep. Ashley Hinson, R-Iowa, speaks with community members during a business roundtable at the Sanity Room bar in Independence, Iowa on Tuesday, July 29, 2025. Hinson answered questions about changes to taxes on tips, flood insurance, and other issues facing small businesses.
THE GAZETTE
IOWA REGION NAVIGATED THE TRANSITION
Over the first five months of 2026, the Iowa Region has diligently navigated the transition to Adams MultiMedia. It’s been a complex change-over touching everything we do -- from vendors and platforms to policies, SOPs and new partnerships. It’s been a whirlwind, but our team across 13 newspapers and three digital sites are so happy to fully be part of Adams MultiMedia.
But one area of focus during the tsunami of change was building a clear-eyed culture across the large Iowa Region. Our challenge: How do we become ONE IOWA instead of The Gazette and 12 other titles across a prominent swath of southern and southeastern Iowa? It had to be authentic and visible, transcending org charts and dotted lines.
That is why we created our ONE IOWA Culture Committee. It’s a group of about a dozen individuals across all disciplines and departments that is focused on these priorities: Engaging, empowering, celebrating and inspiring our 80-plus employees. Through companywide interaction, events and physical efforts to acknowledge work accomplishments and personal milestones, the
new Culture Committee is led by employees. They meet monthly and report to the publisher/regional president. Anyone can be part of it.
They’ve created and organized staff potlucks and companywide celebrations when our final transition hurdle was cleared. One notable visible effort is a “Wall of Gratitude,” where individuals acknowledge the kindness and extraordinary efforts turned in by their peers. The board has attracted dozens of handwritten “thank you notes” that are posted, along with company anniversaries and birthdays.
It’s a fabulous way for our team to personally acknowledge the good work done by colleagues, while reinforcing our standards and celebrating teamwork.
We know culture eats strategy for breakfast. No matter how brilliant our strategic plans may be, they’ll collapse if our team’s culture does not support them. It’s a companywide commitment to building something special that reminds all of us, “We win with people.”
FARIBAULT DAILY NEWS
CONGRATULATIONS LAILA!
Congratulations to Faribault High School graduate Laila Stevens.
Laila is the 2026 recipient of the Faribault Daily News/ Adams MultiMedia $1000 Scholarship.
Faribault Area Public Schools Educational Trust Association (FAPSETA) in conjunction with area businesses support continued education as recipients of scholarships are eligible if attending a Community College, Junior College or 4-year College or University.
SOUTHERN MINNESOTA
NEW HIRE AND PROMOTION IN SOUTHERN MINNESOTA REGION
Tim Zyla named Regional Editor in Southern Minnesota Region
Tim brings a wealth of experience to this role, having successfully worked his way up through various newsroom structures, including previously serving as a Regional Editor. Throughout our search for the right leader, Tim’s extensive background, vibrant energy, and unwavering commitment to journalism truly stood out.
In this role, Tim will be instrumental in developing our Southern Minnesota content team and helping lead both the Southern Minnesota region and the Central Division.
The Southern Minnesota region includes:
Owatonna People’s Press
Faribault Daily News
Northfield News
Le Sueur County News
Kenyon Leader
St. Peter Herald
Waseca County News
Caledonia Argus
Lonsdale Area News Review
Tim is a Pennsylvania native and comes from a thirdgeneration newspaper family. He has spent the last 11 years with Sample News Group, where he worked as sports editor and later managing editor of his hometown newspaper in Shamokin, Pa. Two years ago, he took on the role of regional
editor, overseeing the newsrooms of two daily newspapers in Towanda and Sayre, Pa., along with weekly publications in Owego, N.Y., and Montrose, Pa. Last year, Tim was asked to help oversee news operations during the company’s acquisition of the Cortland Standard in Cortland, N.Y.
In the newsroom, Tim focuses on building a culture of accountability journalism, making effective use of public information laws and delivering timely, impactful reporting that serves readers and communities. While his passion is hard news, he also believes community newspapers should reflect the communities they serve and places an emphasis on the need for quality feature writing.
In his free time, he enjoys playing golf, traveling and cheering on Philadelphia sports teams, especially the Phillies. He recently relocated to Faribault for the position and looks forward to becoming involved in the community and getting to know the people of Southern Minnesota.
Kemp named Associate Editor
Colton Kemp has been promoted to Associate Editor for the Southern Minnesota region.
While the region was searching for a Regional Editor, Colton stepped up in assisting coordination of news operations, open positions, and cover employee leaves. He was also instrumental in organizing special sections and driving our newsletter initiative forward.
Colton has earned this well-deserved promotion, and we look forward to his continued development within the company. Congratulations, Colton!
ANTIGO JOURNAL
TERRY MILES OF ANTIGO WI
EXCEEDS GOAL
27 MONTHS IN A ROW!
Terry Miles, our MMAE in Antigo WI has exceeded his sales goal 27 months in a row. This is an incredible accomplishment and Terry has nailed it!
Terry started his MMAE position in Antigo in September of 2023 and it didn’t take him long to close the gap and start exceeding his goal, which has been at least 10% over last year’s numbers. Terry’s strong drive to go after both new print and digital clients has grown month after month. He has sold digital clients all across the country to prove the opportunity to grow digital is truly unlimited! Congratulations to Terry. A job well done!
SOUTHERNMINN.COM
KEMP PROMOTED to associate editor in Southern Minnesota
Colton Kemp was promoted to associate editor with Adams MultiMedia’s SouthernMinn team late last month, after starting as a reporter at the Faribault Daily News in June 2022.
Kemp grew up in southern Indiana. He attended Indiana University’s Media School, where he majored in journalism with a minor in Spanish.
He spent his first few years as a reporter at the Faribault Daily News, where he quickly found a passion for politics during the 2022 election cycle. In the Minnesota Newspaper Association’s 2022-2023 Better Newspaper Contest, Kemp won first prize for the Dave Pyle New Journalist Award among all multi-day publications.
In late 2024, he accepted a new role at the Northfield News. Starting in mid-2025, a series of staffing challenges and
emergency absences presented Kemp an opportunity to informally step into an interim leadership role, managing multiple reporters and freelancers and editing several SouthernMinn publications for months, including during Operation Metro Surge.
In May 2026, his efforts were recognized by Adams MultiMedia Regional President Bill Albrecht, who remarked Kemp had “done a good job stepping in and up at a critical time to keep our products going,” and Kemp was promoted to associate editor.
“I’ve grown to love these southern Minnesota communities over the past few years,” Kemp said. “I appreciate the support and recognition, and look forward to continuing the momentum I’ve built over the past few years.”
JANESVILLE GAZETTE
Neil Johnson, who worked for AMM with the Janesville Gazette from 2014-2023, has rejoined the staff as City Editor. For the past three years, Neil had been with the new radio station in Janesville, WCLO.
In his newly-created role, he directs the news staff in Janesville to return The Gazette’s coverage to the premier news outlet it has been for most of its 180 years of existence. AMM Southern Wisconsin Regional Editor Tim Sullivan is assisting Neil and the Gazette team as the interim Managing Editor for the paper.
“My role as The Gazette’s city editor is to manage the daily news report,” Neil said. “I work alongside the paper’s reporting staff, vetting local issues and occurrences, and assigning and developing local news stories.
“It’s my job to shepherd and guide the news staff as we report and write the news that shapes your day. Our central goal is to ensure the stories we publish are timely, accurate and as complete as possible.”
Along with news reporters Ryan Spoehr and Kylie BalkYaatenen, news clerk Brock Mackinnis and a sports staff consisting of Editor Zane Goedderz and reporter Matt Ellis, The Gazette is poised to rise to new heights under Neil’s leadership.
NEIL JOHNSON
EAST IDAHO & UTAH
ADAMS ASSIST TEAM
The ADAMS ASSIST team visited the Eastern Idaho and Utah sales team in April. The team completed two days of in-depth
training on best practices and digital products, followed by two days of “4 legged calls” where the local reps teamed up with ADAMS ASSIST experts. Over $20,000 in digital sales were closed on the spot, with more pending. It was highly focused, productive and a lot of fun!
SKAGIT VALLEY HERALD
SKAGIT VALLEY HERALD
CAMERON MARTINEZ
Cameron Martinez, reporter at the Skagit Valley Herald in Mount Vernon, Wash., has been selected as one of Editor and Publisher Magazine’s Tomorrow’s News Trailblazers.
Tomorrow’s News Trailblazers showcase journalism’s future — one that’s inspired, passionate and innovative — reinvigorated by fresh ideas and talent. Trailblazers are redefining the industry and transforming news media. Cameron is featured in the April edition of E&P Magazine.
Cameron is a passionate multimedia journalist who brings fresh ideas, stellar photos/videos, and quality reporting to our newsroom on a daily basis. They are enthusiastic, smart, reliable, and a pleasure to work with.
We are proud of Cameron and happy to have them on our team here in Washington!
EAST IDAHO
IDAHO PRESS CLUB AWARD WINNERS
IDAHO PRESS CLUB AWARD – BEST OF 2025
MAY 2ND, 2026
GENERAL NEWS STORY – DAILY
2nd Place – Taylor Calder – Legal yesterday, illegal today: How policy whiplash shattered Pocatello Family’s American dream.
LIGHT FEATURE REPORTING – DAILY
1st Place – Brandon Walton – How a 3-year-old’s battle inspired Malad to keep pushing for a title.
SERIES – DAILY
2nd Place – The Saga of Failed Funeral Home Director Lance Peck
SPORTS NEWS COVERAGE – DAILY
1st Place – Brandon Walton – Three years, one dream: How the Spud Kings brought a title to Idaho Falls.
2nd Place – Brandon Walton – 75 years later: Idaho State sends both rodeo teams to Nationals.
SPORTS FEATURE STORY – DAILY
2nd Place -Brandon Walton – How Idaho State helped launch the dreams of Miami Dolphins’ Tanner Conner
SPORTS PREP NEWS STORY – DAILY
1st Place – Brandon Walton – Five months after heart surgery, Irwin leads Pocatello to its best finish.
SPORTS PREP FEATURE STORY – DAILY
1st Place – Brandon Walton – How the Larsen sisters became the heart of Rigby girls basketball.
2nd Place – Brandon Walton – How Idaho Falls’ Balsmeier found her way back after her mother’s death.
AGRICULTURE REPORT – DAILY
2nd Place – Shelbie Harris – Blackfoot farmers face $21K lawsuit for dispute over water shutoff order.
CRIME REPORT – DAILY
2nd Place – Shelbie Harris – Doorbell cameras help nab man charged in multi-city quadruple homicide, his family issues apology on social media.
SPOT NEWS COVERAGE – WEEKLY
1st Place – Taylor Calder – Local family of teens shot by police looking for answers.
COURTS REPORT – WEEKLY
2nd Place – Danielle Clegg Cook – Jeremy Best sentenced to life in prison without parole for killing son, wife and unborn child.
Cameron Martinez smiles for a portrait outside the Skagit Valley Herald office in Mount Vernon, Wash.
WYOMING TRIBUNE EAGLE AND ROCKET MINER
Wyoming journalists earn 13 awards in REGIONAL SPJ CONTEST
Journalists from two Adams MultiMedia publications in Wyoming came away from the recent Society of Professional Journalists Region 9 meeting in Denver with a total of 13 awards.
During a ceremony April 25 at The Slate Hotel, the following Top of the Rockies awards were received by Wyoming Tribune Eagle staff members:
• Brian Martin and the WTE Editorial Board, first place, Columns/Op Ed pieces, “Our View” editorials. The judge said: “The Wyoming Tribune Eagle demonstrates the strength of a newspaper that understands both civic leadership and community responsibility. The Opinion pages move confidently between professional editorial guidance and deeply personal testimony, creating a publication that is intellectually grounded and socially responsive. Altogether, this is a great job. First prize goes to Editor
• Taylor Staples, third place, A&E and Food: Criticism, “Vintage Vibes and Fresh Finds” columns.
• Taylor Staples, third place, A&E and Food: News or Feature, “’I’ve never laughed more than in a Blue Man dressing room’.”
Meanwhile, staff from the Rocket Miner in Rock Springs took home the following honors:
• Ann Jantz, first place, Photo package, “Sights at Seedskadee.” The judges said: “These beautifully crafted images remind us of the fragile, majestic Nature that we’re fighting for.”
• Ann Jantz, second place, Sports News, “Still on Top;” and Personal/Humor Column writing, “Good Gravy” columns.
• Anden Garfield, second place, Sports Feature, “Inclusion through the joy of sports; and Sports Photo/Video, “Dayton Stott.”
CHECK OUT THE AMM HR PORTAL
To help simplify your employment at AMM, we have built this Associate portal as a resource for you. Inside, you will find quick links and easy access to: human resources staff, benefits contacts, job openings, newsletters and more…
This is a great place to start when you are searching for HR information. Of course, if you can’t find what you are looking for or need additional help, our HR team is always available to assist you. You can find their contact info at hr.adamspg.com/contact or you can send them a quick message to AskHR@adamspg.com.
LOOKING FOR A DIFFERENT POSITION WITHIN AMM? CHECK OUT AVAILABLE CAREER OPPORTUNITIES ON THE HR PORTAL.
Ask HR!
Have a question, but don’t know who to ask? The Human Resources staff is listening! You can always send an email to Ask HR if you have questions or concerns. Emails will be kept confidential and, if we print your question in the AMM newsletter, we will not use your name.
Questions may be emailed to AskHR@adamspg.com or sent interoffice to your regional HR representative.
KATHARINE GLASS
AMM Vice President of HR kglass@adamsmultimedia.com 865.981.1101
DEB BROOKS
HR Manager - AMM West dbrooks@skagitpublishing.com 360.416.2187 GWEN DAVIS
HR Manager - SO WI, MD, OH hmccalmont@adamsmultimedia.com 608.755.9442
HR Manager - MN, NO WI, IA therese.zadnik-klecker@ adamsmultimedia.com 763.712.3559
Know someone who would be a perfect fit at AMM?
For any successful referral of friends, family members, or professional acquaintances, you will receive the following payment:
• $100 for any person you refer after he or she is hired
• $100 for any person you refer after he or she completes 30 days of employment
• $100 for any person you refer after he or she completes 60 days of employment
• $200 for any person you refer after he or she completes 90 days of employment
• $500 for any person you refer after he or she completes 1 year of employment
There is NO situation in which an incentive will be paid for any Associate who leaves for any reason prior to being employed for 30 days. To receive a referral incentive, the person making the referral must be an Associate of the company on the day the referred Associate is hired AND the day the referral bonus is due to be paid.
Please be aware that no Associate is authorized to make an offer of employment to any individual or promise employment of any
type. All decisions regarding employment offers will be made solely by management.
Only one referral incentive will be issued for each new Associate; it will be paid to the first eligible person to submit the form below to your Adams MultiMedia Human Resources representative. Former Associates who may be rehired by the company are NOT considered to be a new referral and therefore will not be eligible for a referral incentive payment.
CONGRATULATIONS TO ASSOCIATES WHO HAVE BEEN AWARDED THE AMM REFERRAL BONUS FOR NEW HIRES!
