The Republic-Times, your award-winning newspaper covering Monroe County and surrounding areas since 1890, picked up more honors Friday during the Southern Illinois Editorial Association “Better Newspaper” awards luncheon in Carbondale.

The Republic-Times won first place in the open division (all newspapers) for Best Website (www.republictimes.net). The paper took home second place honors in the open division for Best News Photo and Best Sports Photo.

The R-T also won first place in its division for Best Newspaper Design, second place for Advertising Excellence and third place for Best Local News Coverage.

The Republic-Times is also up for several Illinois Press Association state newspaper awards this year. The IPA awards luncheon takes place in June.