For our 60th anniversary, we're adding a few new events to our usual calendar. Starting in May, Northern Illinois Newspaper Association members will gather for free informal chats at noon over Zoom. Watch for details soon.
NIU Student Journalist joins NINA Board
by Pat Szpekowski, APR - NINA President NINA is proud of its legacy and affiliation with Northern Illinois University in DeKalb. The roots of our organization were formed here and NINA has grown and prospered over the years. As we celebrate NINA’s 60th in 2022, you might have noticed our tagline for this anniversary year… Continue reading NIU Student Journalist joins NINA Board
Renew. Refresh. Restore.
by Pat Szpekowski, APR - NINA President Happy New Year! For years, I’ve repeated the mantra - Renew. Refresh. Restore. It’s been the positive way to cope with all of the challenges that pop up nearly every single day. I invite you to join me as we pursue the “Three R’s” in 2022. REPEAT all… Continue reading Renew. Refresh. Restore.
Merry Christmas from NINA
Pat Szpekowski Takes Over as NINA President in Organization’s 60th Year
Pat Szpekowski, an award-winning freelance writer and president of PR Strategies & Communications, Inc./PmS Advertising, Inc. in Elgin, IL, has been chosen to lead the Northern Illinois Newspaper Association in the organization's 60th anniversary year. Szpekowski's election is groundbreaking because of her experience as a public relations strategist, an independent businesswoman and longtime newspaper contributor.… Continue reading Pat Szpekowski Takes Over as NINA President in Organization’s 60th Year
Young journalists shine during NINA panel
by Dan Campana Remember, the light at the end of the tunnel may be you. That line – a kicker to close out the album version of Aerosmith’s 1993 hit “Amazing” – came to mind as the NINA Virtual Awards Celebration wrapped up on Oct. 28. It’s an optimistic, introspective sentence which reminds us all… Continue reading Young journalists shine during NINA panel
Daily Herald, Suburban Chronicle general excellence winners in annual news competition
DeKALB — Regional journalists and journalism educators gathered virtually Thursday for the Northern Illinois Newspaper Association’s annual awards ceremony. The Daily Herald won the general excellence award in the daily category, and the Suburban Chronicle won the general excellence award in the nondaily category. The general excellence categories replace the sweepstakes awards, which previously were awarded to the organizations that had the best showing in the competition. About 15 nameplates submitted 277 entries… Continue reading Daily Herald, Suburban Chronicle general excellence winners in annual news competition
A sign of champions
By Pat Szpekowski, NINA first vice president When driving to a destination, I usually catch a casual glance of signs when entering a new community. Cities and Villages proudly post accomplishments. You've seen them, too. Tree City USA. Hebron, Home of 1952 State Basketball Champions. Carpentersville-Bradie Tennell U.S. Olympic Champion. Algonquin-Jacobs High School alumnus Evan… Continue reading A sign of champions
Awards season brings NINA community together
Dan Campana by Dan Campana, NINA President Any way you talk about the last 19 months – personally and professionally – the word “challenge” likely pops up at some point.At the same time, words such as adapt, overcome and persevere are also fitting when considering how in the world we’ve collectively endured so much uncertainty… Continue reading Awards season brings NINA community together
Power of the local press
by Pat SzpekowskiNINA 1st Vice President Community journalism is a win-win for everyone. During a recent board meeting I attended at the Northern Kane County Chamber of Commerce in Carpentersville, a number of matters were on the agenda for review. Past and upcoming local events always bring on a lively discussion. I happened that day… Continue reading Power of the local press
Northern Illinois News Association 