Missourian wins awards for reporting, Web site

The nation's largest newspaper trade association has recognized the Southeast Missourian with five reporting awards, as well as first place for best newspaper Web site in its 2006 contest. The National Newspaper Association has more than 2,500 newspapers, primarily outside of metropolitan regions.

"Following on the heels of the best newspaper award from the Suburban Newspapers of America, judged by the American Press Institute, this is quite a heady time for the Southeast Missourian and our readers," said Jon K. Rust, publisher. "It's nice to be recognized.

"But what is most vital to us is continuing to serve our readers to the best of our ability each day," Rust said. "Congratulations go to our news and online departments, with special kudos to James Baughn, webmaster, and Callie Clark Miller, features editor."

The Web site of the Southeast Missourian, semissourian.com, received more than 160 million hits in 2005, 20 million page views, and served thousands of people daily. Content from the daily newspaper represents only a small portion of the online content.

"There are photo galleries online with thousands of community photos that never appear in print," Rust said. "There is an online interactive calendar, which will be massively improved in the next few months, sports and business blogs, video and audio. It really is remarkable to be recognized by the industry like this."

A first-place award went to Callie Clark Miller for best feature story for her article "Behind the musical."

Rudi Keller won second place in the category of freedom of information with his article, "Filth found year before Perry County boy's death."

Scott Moyers won third place in best business story for his "The mysterious Mr. Fishman."

Honorable mention awards went to Marty Mishow for best sports story, "Billings is out as coach," and to Matt Sanders for best performing arts story for "Coaching off Broadway."

The awards will be presented officially at the NNA's 120th annual Convention and Trade Show, Oct. 11 to 14 in Oklahoma City.

The entries are judged by journalism publishers, editors and professors throughout the country. The names of the judges, along with the number of newspaper entries, will be revealed at the trade show in October.