dailycorinthian.com - North Mississippi's Local News Source

Boehler steps down, Blankenship named as new editor at paper

Published Friday, March 28
By Jebb Johnston
Staff Writer

Robert Blankenship, a community journalist who comes to
Corinth from central Alabama, has been named the new editor of the Daily Corinthian. Blankenship began work on Wednesday and has spent his first few days getting up to speed on the newsroom operations.

"Robert brings with him experience not only as a community newspaper editor, but also experience as a writer and reporter," said Publisher Reece Terry.

"Robert shares our philosophy of being an active part of the communities we serve. Prior to joining our staff, Robert was involved in his community through the Rotary Club, Relay for Life and other organizations."

Corinth is somewhat close to home for Blankenship, who is a native of Russellville, Ala. He said he is looking forward to settling into the community with his wife, Melissa, and Samuel, their five-year-old son.

Blankenship comes to Corinth from Leeds, Ala., where he has served as editor and general manager of the Leeds News and the St. Clair News Aegis, both located in the Birmingham area.

"I look forward to working with the outstanding staff of the Daily Corinthian and moving the paper forward," said Blankenship. "I want to learn about the area we serve and be a part of the community. I definitely want to keep this a community-oriented newspaper."

Under his direction, the Leeds News was twice recognized for general excellence from the Alabama Press Association. He previously worked as managing editor of two biweekly newspapers in south Alabama and also previously worked as a reporter. He has been in the business since 1997. Blankenship, a journalism graduate of the University of North Alabama School of Communications, plans to be involved as a community advocate.

"I am interested in getting to know people and helping Corinth and surrounding areas to reach their goals," he said.

Today is the last day at the Daily Corinthian for outgoing editor Mark Boehler, who begins work Monday at radio station WOWL in Iuka.