JACKSON — The advertising staff of The Natchez Democrat won four first place awards, second place in overall general excellence and 17 total awards Saturday at the Mississippi Press Association’s Mid-Winter Conference.

The Democrat competes with similar-sized newspapers across the state.

First place awards included:

Best retail ad in black and white — Justin Clarkston for The Liquor Store

Best auto display ad in color — Ryan Richardson for Heritage Chrysler Dodge Jeep

Best service ad in color — Rita Brooks for Paul Green & Associates

Best editorial special section — Profile 2009

Second place awards included:

Best classified house ad

Best niche publication — 2009 Community Calendar

Best Web site house ad — Ben Hillyer

Best institutional ad in color — Clarkston for Trinity School

Best institutional ad in black and white — Richardson for Parkway Baptist Church

Best grocery or restaurant ad in color — Ben Williams

Third place awards included:

Best section or edition dedicated to an editorial topic — Football 2009

Best grocery or restaurant ad in black and white — Clarkston for McDonald’s

Best institutional ad in black and white — Richardson for the Natchez-Adams County Chamber of Commerce

Best single retail ad in black and white — Clarkston for Trippe’s Western Auto

Best auto advertisement in black and white — Richardson for Trace City Toyota4 Best magazine product — Football 2009