Newspaper wins big in national journalism contest

The Southeast Missourian has won four first place awards in the national Local Media Association contest.

The newspaper was awarded the following:

* First place -- Best continuing coverage for coverage of Clay Waller, who pleaded guilty to second-degree murder of his wife, Jacque Waller

* First place -- Best breaking news for "Waller gets 20"

* First place -- Best front page

* First place -- Best niche product for Flourish, a magazine for Southeast Missouri women

The Southeast Missourian also received third place in best election coverage for its 8th Congressional District reporting.