WWN wins 3 awards

The Western Wayne News team and its community news coverage was celebrated at the annual Hoosier State Press Association awards luncheon Sept. 13.

Within the newspaper’s division of non-daily papers in Indiana with circulation greater than 1,500, the WWN won first place in the categories “Best News Coverage Under Deadline Pressure,” “Best Headline Writing” and “Best Website.” Contest award winners are determined by an impartial panel of reviewers from outside the state.

The deadline pressure news coverage accolade in particular recognized reporting by Mike Emery, Millicent Martin Emery and Chris Hardie on the April 2023 toxic plastics fire in Richmond. The event was breaking news locally and across the country. The WWN team provided continuous coverage throughout the day on our website and on social media that helped to keep residents informed and safe as officials battled the blaze.

“These awards highlight how our small but versatile reporting team is able to adapt to the evolving local news needs of the community,” said Hardie, WWN’s publisher. “Whether it’s covering numerous sports games, government meetings or important events in our print edition, or bringing breaking news coverage to online readers, we’re passionate about keeping Wayne County informed, and it’s wonderful to see that hard work honored at the state level.”