CNHI News Service
The Meridian Star
MERIDIAN —
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Community Newspaper Holdings, Inc. awarded The Meridian Star as “Newspaper of the Year” Friday in the company’s “Best of CNHI” editorial contest.
More than 100 newspapers, websites and magazines produced by CNHI in 22 states competed in the contest for work done in 2009.
Judges evaluated three weeks worth of newspapers and considered reporting, writing, editing, photography, design, headlines, local editorials, local columnists, reader involvement, public affairs journalism and the impact of public affairs journalism on the community.
Ten CNHI editors participated in the final judging of the contest entries earlier this week. The Star was noted for its “courageous coverage of controversial issues” and its stories highlighting the “poignant relevance of America’s first black president to a southern city” by contest judges.
“I couldn’t be happier for this staff,” said Executive Editor Fredie Carmichael. “This is a testament to their passion and dedication to local news. This is an honor for us as a small community newspaper and we appreciate CNHI for recognizing our efforts.”
The judges said The Star excelled at “engaging the community in a discussion of those issues,” which included Freedom of Information stories, editorials and columns. Judges also praised the newspaper’s coverage of the historical significance of the inauguration of Barack Obama.
CNHI President and Chief Executive Officer Donna Barrett is expected to make a formal presentation to the staff in the coming weeks.
