HALDIMAND—The Haldimand Press was recognized twice this year at the annual Canadian Community News Awards, which celebrates the best in local journalism across the country.
This year’s awards, hosted by News Media Canada, honoured contributions from 2022.
The Press took second place honours in the category ‘Outstanding Community Service’ for our Provincial debate, held live at the Caledonia Lions Community Centre on May 18, 2022. The debate saw several candidates take on the issues of the day in front of a packed house.
The debate was also filmed and livestreamed online. The production was spearheaded by local filmmaker Graeme Bachiu, whose team played a vital role in expanding the debate’s audience as 1,400 people watched live online and more tuned in for the recording.
The Press has put on similar live streamed debates in recent years for the municipal, provincial, and federal elections, and will continue with our award-winning formula as new elections arise.
Secondly, Press Senior Reporter and Assistant Editor Mike Renzella took home third place honours in the category Best Historical Story, Circulation up to 9,999, for his story ‘Wartime contributions of our Indigenous neighbours’.
The story was published on November 10, 2022 as part of our annual Remembrance Day special section. It looked at historical military contributions of members of Six Nations of the Grand River and Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation, with insight from MCFN Traditional Knowledge and Land Use Coordinator Darin Wybenga.
The piece touched on the spirit that emboldened the local Indigenous population to enlist during the first World War, despite widespread disenfranchisement in the community following land disputes with the Crown and a dwindling population.
The piece also dove into the history of Cameron D. Brant, great-grandson of Joseph Brant, who became a lieutenant in the 37th regiment of the Haldimand Rifles during WWI and died on the battlefield between April 22 to May 25, 1915 in Belgium.
The team at The Press is proud of our accomplishments this year. We work tirelessly to bring you compelling and reliable coverage of what’s happening in the community. Thank you to our readers and advertisers for your continued support. It is through the support of our community that we are able to continue with our mission to bring award-winning local coverage right to your doorstep. For story ideas, email news@haldimandpress.com.
