HALDIMAND — From a heartbreaking feature on Dunnville’s Baby Doe to a candid editorial on mental health, The Haldimand Press’ work has earned six national awards in the 2025 Canadian Community Newsmedia Awards.
The highest recognition came with a first-place award for Best Feature Story. Tamara Botting’s article on Baby Doe was described by judges as “a truly moving story, told with compassion and journalistic rigour.”
The feature recounted the tragic discovery of Baby Doe, the unidentified young girl found in Dunnville on May 17, 2022. It highlighted resident Nancy Labuda’s memorials to the child since and her reflections on the grief and hope in the ongoing search for justice, including the wider context of the police investigation.
The Press also earned recognition in the editorial category, with Mike Renzella’s third place in Best National Editorial. His piece, A New Year’s resolution from the heart, explored his personal struggles with anxiety and depression and his decision to seek help. Judges praised the editorial for its honesty, writing that Renzella “showed courage to put himself in the spotlight with a subject that people have long been reluctant to address openly.” The piece was commended as a strong call to action for others to utilize mental health supports.
Agricultural stories and design brought another top honour, with The Press winning first place for Best Agricultural Edition. Farms Harvest 2024 was hailed by judges as nearly flawless. They highlighted its rich local content and strong layout. “Very impressive,” the judges concluded.
History coverage also earned national attention, with Botting’s article Six Nations man discovers notable historic figures in family tree winning first place for Best Historical Story. Judges praised it as “a great story” about a man who, in exploring his surname, uncovered remarkable ancestors – including one considered for inclusion on Canada’s $5 bill. The panel called it “a great example of how history can be personal and local, and why it is important for all of us to know our history.”
Botting also received second for Best News Feature Photo. Her image of 100-year-old graduate Doris Young tossing her cap outside the high school was described as “a memorable moment for the student,” praising the emotion and composition of the shot.
Digital journalism also brought accolades, with haldimandpress.com earning second place for Best Community Newspaper Website. Judges praised the site’s clear organization, accessible design, and comprehensive coverage.
“Thank you to all our subscribers and advertisers for your ongoing support. We do this work for you, but it’s only possible because of your support,” said Co-Publishers Kaitlyn Clark and Jillian Taylor.
