ALAMOSA — Valley Courier Editor Ruth Heide and Staff Writer Jefferson Geiger received awards during the Colorado Press Association convention this past weekend.

Competing against newspapers with similar circulation across Colorado, the Courier took three awards. Heide took second place in headline writing and second place in best news story for a March 2016 story about the Voss fatal child abuse case.

Geiger, who has worked at the Courier for nearly a year, took second place in the best photography portfolio with photos including youth conservation corps, Early Iron Festival pinstriping (pictured), the sheep show at the Valley fair, a motorcycle run, the Stephanie L. Miner event, Mellow Yellow Lemon Run and La Puente’s HOPE Week candlelight vigil.

In addition, Courier Publisher Keith R. Cerny was recognized during the convention for his years of service on the Colorado Press Association Board of Directors.

Colorado Governor John Hickenlooper shared remarks during the convention, which included numerous workshops and presentations.