An effort to document stories of tragedy, drama and eventual hope 30 years after a deadly flood helped earn The Tribune-Democrat of Johnstown, Pa., a Newspaper of the Year award in Community Newspaper Holdings Inc.’s annual journalism competition.

Results of the contest recognizing individual and team journalism at CNHI newspapers during 2007 were announced today. Thirteen senior editors considered nearly 750 entries submitted in three circulation divisions. The judges named winners and finalists in 29 categories.

Based in Birmingham, CNHI operates daily and non-daily newspapers in more than 150 communities throughout the United States.

The Tribune-Democrat won top honors for newspapers with daily circulations of 12,000 or more. Judges called it a comprehensive newspaper with a strong voice. They noted its commitment to connecting with readers and finding ways to get their stories into the newspaper. This was especially so in a project that catalogued memories of those who survived the July 1977 flood, which killed 85 people. A newspaper series led to a commemorative book and DVD.

“Everything it presents just has a community feel, a sense of place,” the judges wrote of the newspaper. “… Above all, it is really working hard to support its community, which has had its share of struggles. The Tribune-Democrat plays a strong leadership role. It will help Johnstown find a good future.”

The Gloucester (Mass.) Daily Times won a Newspaper of the Year award in the division for dailies with circulations less than 12,000. Judges cited its strong local coverage and compelling reporting about a devastating fire in downtown Gloucester. The Sentinel-Echo, of London, Ky., won its second consecutive Newspaper of the Year award in the division for non-dailies. Judges noted its attractive design and efforts to dig deeper into topics important to its readers.