Star named Best of CNI

Tallulah – The Graham Star – Graham County’s hometown newspaper since 1955 – was recently awarded the “Best of CNI, Division B” distinction by its owner, Community Newspapers Inc.

The Star was one of just two recipients of the award. with the other being the Cherokee Scout for Division A in Murphy. The two publications were chosen from a field of 24 under the CNI umbrella.

The Graham Star had not received the honor since 2010.

“To say that being named one of the ‘Best’ in your company is very humbling would be an understatement,” said Kevin Hensley, publisher/editor of The Graham Star. “This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication our staff puts in into our product – not just the publication that you pick up at a newsstand each week, but the behind-the-scenes efforts that no one ever thinks to take into account.”

To be named Best of CNI, a panel of judges weighs advertising, circulation and editorial achievements for each publication under the banner of Community Newspapers, which is based in Athens, Ga.

Despite the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, The Graham Star has continued to produce concise, quality content and improved advertising results.

“As the newspaper with the second-smallest circulation in our company, the odds are against us each time these awards are judged,” Hensley added. “We crank out a weekly publication with a small staff and my thanks go to Staff Writer Charlie Benton, Sales Associate Debbie Dills, Composition Manager Christy Guthrie – who actually works out of Murphy – Staff Photographer Art Miller and Office Manager Diane West, who help keep the ship on-course each week.

“I would also be remiss if I did not give a tip of the cap to our contributing writers and columnists, who all help give readers added incentive to purchase our product each week.”

The Graham Star has a circulation of 2,400 and hits stores each Thursday.