Two World Company Web sites have been singled out as the best in the nation.

The Newspaper Association of America’s New Media Federation announced the Eleventh Digital Edge or “Edgie” awards for 2006 in Orlando, Fla.

Lawrence.com was named the best entertainment Web site among newspapers circulation 50,000 or less. It also ranked first for best design and site architecture.

LJWorld.com was named the best overall news site among newspapers 50,000 circulation or less.

Other top winners in their respective circulation categories were the Washington Post, Modesto Bee and the Minneapolis Star Tribune.

Here’s a quote from the judges:

“This year’s list of winners includes sites that have made an impressive habit of consistent excellence, such as washingtonpost.com and Lawrence.com.”

“I’m just stunned to hear our team’s efforts mentioned as consistently great with the likes of the Washington Post,” said Dan Simons, president of The World Company’s electronics division. “That is amazing, and this isn’t a contest of lightweights; 187 of America’s best newspapers compete for the awards. Some companies build products to win awards, we build products for the reader and advertiser. In my mind, it is that focus that separates us from others. I’m proud of our team.”

Select comments from Edgie judges appear below.

Best Overall News Site

“Repeating as the winner in the Best Overall News Site category, LJWorld.com continues its reign as a strong, clever news provider that has earned its reputation for interactivity, responsiveness and innovation.”

Best Design and Site Architecture

“The winner of last year’s Best Home Page User Experience category treats its audience to consistent accessibility, intuitive design and great visual order.”

Best Entertainment Site

“What makes Lawrence.com so special? Start with the useful and authoritative content, such as ultra timely “Restaurants Open Now” list, move on to fantastic online radio station, head toward the terrific band listings and catch your breath with the extensive video offerings.”

Dan Cox, director of World Online, said he and his team were gratified by the awards.

“It’s an honor to be recognized for our efforts,” Cox said. “We work hard to build the finest Web sites possible for our news, community, and our readers. We are dedicated to continue providing meaningful, informative content and interaction to our readers.”

LJWorld.com also earned the 2005 EPpy Award for the Best Internet News Service from Editor & Publisher and Mediaweek magazines. It won the EPpy award for best news site in 2003.

And last year, World Company Web sites collected four “Edgie” awards: LJWorld.com was named Best Overall News Site; Lawrence.com won Best Home Page User Experience, and LJWorld.com/sports won Best Sports Site for its sports sections on LJWorld.com and KUsports.com.