| Monitor-Herald Announces Plans to Close |
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The Monitor-Herald began publication in Calhoun City in 1899. It will print its final edition the last day of 2009. Reflecting the people and history of the times, the newspaper's 110-year life has been eventful, significant and worth celebrating. The current owner of the Monitor-Herald, Journal, Inc., has explored selling the newspaper or donating it during the past six months, but ultimately decided to cease publication at year-end. “Calhoun County is best served by one good newspaper and The Calhoun County Journal is positioned to continue to serve as the weekly newspaper of record for the entire county,” said Journal Chairman Billy Crews. Journal, Inc. will continue to publish The Northeast Mississippi Daily Journal and seven weekly newspapers in Northeast Mississippi. The Monitor-Herald was acquired by Journal, Inc. four years ago, and while circulation has grown by 42% to 811, it remains the smallest revenue and circulation newspaper in the Journal's group of local newspapers. “The Calhoun County Journal has circulation totaling 4,700 with strong local ownership and a fine editorial tradition,” said Northeast Mississippi Daily Journal Publisher Clay Foster. “Our decision to cease publication reflects what is best for the entire county as well as our own business priorities.” “We believe a local newspaper remains the key source of news, advertising and community building,” said Calhoun County Journal Publisher Joel McNeece. “We accept the announcement of The Monitor-Herald’s closing as a challenge to build on our efforts to produce a news product that continues to serve every corner of Calhoun County with dignity, fairness and a progressive eye toward the future. We are pleased to work in partnership with the readers and advertisers of the Monitor-Herald to make this a seamless transition for the benefit of Calhoun County.” The Calhoun County Journal was founded in 1953 by the late Gale Denley and his parents Sellers and Maggie Ellen Denley. Mack Spencer will continue as news staff leader for the Monitor-Herald through December 31 when the last edition is scheduled to be published. News coverage plans include a historical review and celebration of the 110-year life of this local newspaper. If our readers or advertisers have questions or suggestions as we close the final chapter in the history of our newspaper, please contact us at 628-5241 or email your ideas to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . |