2016 Osman C. Hooper/Collegiate Newspaper Awards by Josh

Osman C. Hooper Newspaper Awards

& Ohio Collegiate Newspaper and Best Website Awards

Awards & Judgesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Reports 2016

Osman C. Hooper Newspaper Awards & Ohio Collegiate Newspaper and Best Website Awards

Competitions for Weely and Collegiate newspapers presented by the Ohio Newspaper Association Weekly Newspaper Committee and the Ohio Newspapers Foundation. 2

As presented at the 2016 Ohio Newspaper Association Convention 17, 2016 Osman C. Hooper Newspaper Awards &February Ohio Collegiate Newspaper and Best Website Awards

When the Ohio Newspaper Association was established in 1933, Osman C. Hooper was already a significant contributor to the organization. For many years, he conducted the annual “Ohio Newspaper Show,” which was held as part of the Buckeye Press Association convention in Columbus. At the turn of the 20th century, the Buckeye Press Association, which represented weekly newspaper publishers, and the Associated Ohio Dailies were conducting separate events. ONA’s founding was the result of their merger into a single state trade association. It was also in 1933 that Hooper published one of several books: The History of Ohio Journalism, which traces the beginnings of Ohio newspapers. At the 1937 ONA Convention, Hooper was presented a resolution citing “his part in the development of increasingly high standards for Ohio community papers,” and his name was added to the annual weekly newspaper contest. Hooper spent 58 years at The Columbus Dispatch, beginning as a telegraph editor in 1880. He was an editorial writer for nearly 20 years and was made literary editor in 1917. Hooper became a journalism professor at Ohio State University in 1918 and was named professor emeritus in 1932. Throughout his teaching career, he continued to edit The Columbus Dispatch book page. In 1925, Hooper established the Ohio Journalism Hall of Fame, which is housed at Ohio State University, and in 1939, he was inducted into the Journalism Hall of Fame. He died in 1941 at the age of 83.

Osman C. Hooper Newspaper Awards & Ohio Collegiate Newspaper and Best Website Awards

Competing weekly newspapers were divided into four divisions according to circulation information already on file with the Ohio Newspaper Association. Competing collegiate newspapers were divided into two divisions based on student enrollment.

HOOPER The Athens News The Budget (Sugarcreek) Cuyahoga Falls News-Press Hudson Hub-Times The Press (Millbury) ThisWeek Dublin Villager ThisWeek Olentangy Valley News ThisWeek Westerville News & Public Opinion

HOOPER Aurora Advocate Barberton Herald Chagrin Valley Times Clermont Sun Geauga County Maple Leaf Jackson County Times Journal The Peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Defender The Press (Avon Lake) Putnam County Sentinel The Register Herald The Telegram (Jackson) ThisWeek New Albany News West Life (Westlake)

HOOPER Englewood Independent The Free Press Standard The Gazette (Jefferson) Geauga Times Courier Huber Heights Courier Journal & Noble County Leader Morgan County Herald Paulding Progress Perry County Tribune Pike County News Watchman Progressor-Times ThisWeek Tri-Village News

HOOPER Ada Herald Archbold Buckeye Bluffton News The Courier (Conneaut) The Delphos Herald Fulton County Expositor The Lake County Tribune The News (Pymatuning) North Ridgeville Press Ripley Bee Solon Times Swanton Enterprise Vandalia Drummer News Vermilion Photojournal Vinton County Courier Yellow Springs News

COLLEGIATE

undergraduate student enrollment of 10,000 or more The Buchtelite (University of Akron) The Kent Stater (Kent State University) The Guardian (Wright State University) The Independent Collegian (University of Toledo) The Jambar (Youngstown University) The Lantern (The Ohio State University) The News Record (University of Cincinnati) The Post (Ohio University)

COLLEGIATE

undergraduate student enrollment of 9,999 or fewer Cedars (Cedarville University) The Chimes (Capital University) The Collegian (Ashland University) The Pulse (University of Findlay) T&C Magazine (Otterbein University)

Osman C. Hooper Newspaper Awards & Ohio Collegiate Newspaper and Best Website Awards

Hooper Category 1: News Coverage Judged by Catherine Cassara; Nancy Brendlinger; Ken Garland

Cuyahoga Falls News-Press Judge’s Notes:

Very strong coverage of community news that included local information, crime, education and local government. Some local feature stories and some local entertainment articles created a nice blend of coverage. The addition of sports coverage and regional and state news produced a broad aspect of coverage. Credits: Phil Keren

ThisWeek Olentangy Valley News Judge’s Notes:

Front cover and sports page of Division A/First Place winner, Cuyahoga Falls News-Press

Strong emphasis on hard news stories with relevance to readers. Stories about a referendum, a change in state law wanted by Township Trustees, a teacher charged with rape and no condos in the township constituted excellent local coverage. Likewise, articles about the missing sisters who were returned home and the firm that helps autistic people expanding into the county provided strong, pertinent coverage. The Police reports supplied good crime information and the Schools section provided good education coverage. Also, the sports coverage was strong.

The Athens News Judge’s Notes: Excellent coverage of the trial of the former sheriff. In-depth reporting enhanced by numerous strong photos. Otherwise, limited local news coverage except for the articles on training being provide after the local school board superintendent was put on leave and on sex assault response. The Best of Athens was a strong community piece that provided good information about the people and places in the area. Well done. Feature stories seemed limited to arts and entertainment. The polar lunge story was a strong feature piece. Excellent photos. Campus section provided some relevant information for readers. The most relevant was the journalist being the keynote speaker for a Black history event.

Front cover of Division D/First Place winner, Yellow Springs News, noted for its police department series.

Front covers of Division C/First Place winner, Perry County Tribune

Osman C. Hooper Newspaper Awards & Ohio Collegiate Newspaper and Best Website Awards

The Telegram (Jackson) Judge’s Notes: Very extensive and broad news coverage to include education, crime and local government (Council). Good mix of hard news, public affairs, features and sports. Excellent use of photos to enhance stories. Great layout with various ‘mini-sections.’

Chagrin Valley Times

Geauga County Maple Leaf

Judge’s Notes:

Strong coverage with emphasis on local government (Council). Good blend of hard news and community information such as policeman promoted to Sargent, the Click It or Ticket campaign and the construction of a new Meijer store. Good blend of news and feature stories. Extensive sports coverage.

Good blend of stories to include hard news (crime), human interest story (recovery from flood), feature story (91-year-old genealogist) and community news (in own section). Sections like 4-H and School news were very effective. Also strong use of photos to enhance stories.

Perry County Tribune Judge’s Notes: Good balanced coverage of government, business, school, crime, sports and community news. Particularly liked that they took state news and localized it.

Pike County News Watchman Judge’s Notes: Good mix of hard and human interest news in the front pages. Rest of the paper well organized so one can easily find news of their interests. Credits: Matt Lucas, Julie Billings, Stephanie Stanley

Englewood Independent Judge’s Notes: Good mixture of news that would matter to the community. Credits: Ron Nunnari

Yellow Springs News Judge’s Notes: Excellent combination of community news and community information. Enterprise reporting (police department series) took this newspaper to the top.

Swanton Enterprise

Fulton County Expositor

Judge’s Notes:

Excellent combination of local community news and community information. Front pages were showcases for the news.

Strong coverage of local hard news and soft news, features and community events.

Osman C. Hooper Newspaper Awards & Ohio Collegiate Newspaper and Best Website Awards

Collegiate Category 1: News Coverage Judged by Dick Morris

The Post (Ohio University) Judge’s Notes:

Like most of the entries, The Post does an excellent job of reporting the news of the day. What made The Post stand out was then taking that news of the day and reporting on how it effects the daily lives of the students on campus.

Credits: Maria DeVito

Two entries from The Post, Division A/First Place winner. The judge commented on this newspaper’s ability to report on events that effect students’ lives.

The Lantern (The Ohio State University) Judge’s Notes:

This is an excellent newspaper. Loaded with plenty of coverage on diverse areas of interest, The Lantern has something for everyone.

The Kent Stater (Kent State University) Judge’s Notes:

Solid coverage of campus news with interesting columnists and graphics. Excellent coverage of the Ebola scare.

Half of the front page of Division A/ Second Place winner, The Lantern

The Kent Stater’s coverage of the Ebola scare (Division A/ Third Place)

Osman C. Hooper Newspaper Awards & Ohio Collegiate Newspaper and Best Website Awards

Front page, campus calendar and an opinion article from Division B/First Place winner, The Pulse

The Pulse (University of Findlay) Judge’s Notes:

Strong, strong overall newspaper. I loved Julianna Koballa and Kelsey Nevius’s columns putting forth well thought-out opinions. The story choice is well-planned, and I love the news briefs and campus calendar on page 2 for those wanting a quick read.

The Collegian (Ashland University) Judge’s Notes:

The Collegian did an excellent job covering a hard story, budget cuts resulting in faculty loss. Not only reporting the “news” but going on to explain how the problem occurred, the departments affected and what that means to the students.

Division B/Second Place winner, The Collegian, was recognized for its coverage of faculty cuts in their October 2 edition. This article was featured on the newspaper’s front page.

Osman C. Hooper Newspaper Awards & Ohio Collegiate Newspaper and Best Website Awards

Hooper Category 2: In-Depth Reporting Judged by Catherine Cassara and Nancy Brendlinger (Division A and B); Nicole Kraft (Division C and D)

The Athens News

The Press (Millbury)

Judge’s Notes:

Incredibly well-done story that developed over time. Never dropped a comma while exposing the kind of news most newsrooms never uncover. Credits: Conor Morris, Terry Smith

Beautiful, well thought-out, interesting and accessible stories that are interesting and easy to read.

ThisWeek Westerville News & Public Opinion Judge’s Notes:

Incredible depth and range; interviews, life stories, etc. show range and reach; probably the best info graphic around.

Clermont Sun Judge’s Notes: Kristin Rover wrote about an important topic that was more than just an event. Good enterprise reporting, including many sources. Clear writing. Starting with a recovering heroin addict and using him as the backbone of the story initially engaged the reader, helped with organization and kept the reader interested. Credits: Kristin Rover

West Life Judge’s Notes: This is an important story covering multiple meetings and also reporting beyond those meetings in order to describe and document the government process in the town. Kevin Kelley was able to dig back into West Life’s files from 10 years ago to add to the discussion. Balanced reporting on what must have been a heated issues. Credits: Kevin Kelley

Putnam County Sentinel Judge’s Notes: Anne Coburn-Griffis did not report on an event, but rather was able to do enterprise reporting on an important local issues, using many sources and good graphics to enhance the story. She chose to lead the series with a description of the problem itself in terms of numbers and focused on the government and other agencies that deal with problems associated with opiate abuse. Credits: Anne Coburn-Griffis

“This is a series of articles and editorial columns related to a controversy in Athens/Ohio University focused on presidential housing and efforts by the Trustees to move the president off-campus.” - Terry Smith, who submitted these entries

Osman C. Hooper Newspaper Awards & Ohio Collegiate Newspaper and Best Website Awards

Pike County News Watchman Judge’s Notes: A quality effort on a difficult topic. Lots of strong details well-shaped.

Credits: Matt Lucas

Yellow Springs News

Huber Heights Courier

Englewood Independent

Judge’s Notes:

Interesting piece looking at economic factors.

Interesting enterprise piece.

Credits: Greg Smart

Yellow Springs News

Credits: Ron Nunnari

Yellow Springs News

Judge’s Notes:

Excellent series -- engaging and committed to the broad topic. Anecdotes really make the stories come to life and engage readers over time. Credits: Diane Chiddister, Lauren Heaton, Megan Bachman

Compelling topic, well framed and presented in a way that is consumable to readers. Credits: Megan Bachman

Compelling story that is unique and has strong reader interest.

Credits: Megan Bachman

Division C/First Place winner, Pike County News Watchman

Division D/First Place winner, Yellow Springs News Kristin Rover wrote a four-part series on heroin addiction for Division B/First Place winner, the Clermont Sun.

Osman C. Hooper Newspaper Awards & Ohio Collegiate Newspaper and Best Website Awards

Collegiate Category 2: In-Depth Reporting Judged by Steve Keller and Phillip Buffington

The Lantern (The Ohio State University)

The News Record (University of Cincinnati)

Judge’s Notes:

An exhaustive look at an issue affecting all college campuses. Wellrounded and complete coverage of the issue from a variety of angles. A good collection of articles.

These three articles constitute very good, in-depth reporting on the same subject. The first article, focused on the comments of victims, was spellbinding and very well done.

Credits: Katie Coburn, Elizabeth DePompei, Becky Butts

The Kent Stater (Kent State University) Judge’s Notes:

Nicely done. This young writer seems to have a good grip on the local political process and how frustrating and confusing different points of view can be. Good insight.

Credits: Matthew Merchant, Graham Smith, Ryan Dunn

Division A/First Place winner, The Lantern, examines student alcohol use in “Booze, books and balance.”

This graphic from Division A/Second Place winner, The News Record, details the crime scene where university students were robbed. The story follows the timeframe of events.

T&C Magazine (Otterbein University)

The Collegian (Ashland University)

Judge’s Notes:

Good job with a tough topic. Holds attention throughout and makes the reader thankful Violet has made progress. But still, there is a tone of sadness throughout the piece. Well done.

Strong work and balance on a hotbutton topic. Well put together, wellwritten, well thought out. Strongest submission from this school.

A lot of of personal interaction between writer and subject. A sad but real human situation wellcovered by well-written words. Judges felt a connection with the reporter and the subject.

Credits: Taylor Numbers, Mary Murphy

Credits: Allyson Miller, Jennifer Hall

Credits: Audrey Art

Osman C. Hooper Newspaper Awards & Ohio Collegiate Newspaper and Best Website Awards

Division B/ First Place winner, T&C Magazine

Division B/ Third Place winner, The Collegian

An excerpt from Division B/Second Place winner, T&C Magazine, written by Allyson Miller: The first three months that Aesha Al Izzi started wearing the niqab that cloaks her identity, she would often get “the look” from strangers. Some would call her a terrorist, others would tell her to go back to her country. “It’s tragic but I kind of [got] used to it,” she said. “And now I would say I am more strong to those things now.”

Osman C. Hooper Newspaper Awards & Ohio Collegiate Newspaper and Best Website Awards

Hooper Category 3: Best Local Feature Judged by Nancy Brendlinger (Division A); Ann Schierhorn (Division B); Mike Sweeney (Division C); Spencer Hunt (Division D)

ThisWeek Olentangy Valley News Judge’s Notes: Towns are full of interesting people and places with interesting stories, but Thomas Gallick’s story about a young student with leukemia and the school he goes to stood out because of the good writing and multiple sources. Strong lead, strong transitions, good use of quotes and satisfying concluding sentence results in a human interest story that stood out above the crowd of a lot of stories about other interesting people and places.

Credits: Thomas Gallick

The Press (Millbury) Judge’s Notes: The reporters of The Press took on an ambitious project of developing a series of explanatory feature articles published over a period of three weeks that helped its readers understand the problems behind and the results of the toxin algae threatening Lake Erie.

The Athens News Judge’s Notes: David DeWitt of The Athens News tackles the hometown university’s athletic budget and analyzes it from several perspectives. It is well-sourced and thorough. This ambitious article is a good example of combining hard news style with explanatory feature writing.

Credits: David DeWitt

Chagrin Valley Times Judge’s Notes: A thoughtful story, sensitively told, about Jacob Hunt and his transition from a young woman to a man. Family members talked openly to reporter Barbara Christian about their reactions and adjustment.

Credits: Barbara Christian

ThisWeek New Albany News Judge’s Notes: A remarkable story about a young man who made his own prosthesis through 3-D printing.

Credits: Lori Wince

The Telegram (Jackson) Judge’s Notes: After his father has a seizure, a 6-year-old calls 911 with clear directions on how to find the two of them in the woods. It really was amazing.

Credits: Steven P. Keller 9

Osman C. Hooper Newspaper Awards & Ohio Collegiate Newspaper and Best Website Awards

Division A/First Place winner, ThisWeek Olentangy Valley News

Division B/First Place winner, Chagrin Valley Times

Geauga Times Courier Judge’s Notes: Wow. A great feature, from the first paragraph to the last. Strong hook in the lede, clear narrative spine and a satisfying snap at the end. Concrete descriptive detail shows the reader the family’s love of its car-enhancing business. A clear winner.

Credits: John Horton

Pike County News Watchman Judge’s Notes: What sets this apart is that it’s actually two stories in one -- of a longtime love and a battle against a terrible disease. The story is sympathetic yet not maudlin. The reporter did a great job of gathering information and weaving into a heartwarming story.

Credits: Julie Billings

Englewood Independent Judge’s Notes: There’s drama here that’s fairly easy to do right -- just get out of the way of the story. But it’s the surprising back-story of the hero that frames this narrative and makes it special. Kudos to the reporter who dug a little deeper than the surface.

Credits: Ron Nunnari Osman C. Hooper Newspaper Awards & Ohio Collegiate Newspaper and Best Website Awards

Division C/First Place winner, Geauga Times Courier

Division D/ First Place winner, Archbold Buckeye

Division B/Second Place winner, ThisWeek New Albany News

Archbold Buckeye Judge’s Notes: This was touching and well-written. The writer ties the beginning to the end in a powerful way, showing how (Tonya Gomez) struggled to breathe, and these days can blow up a swimming pool.

Credits: Mary Huber

Vinton County Courier Judge’s Notes: This is a well-written political horse race profile. This was done with style and a lot of research.

Credits: Tyler Buchanan

Archbold Buckeye Judge’s Notes: This is a really strong profile of a young man who focuses on, and realizes, his goals. You learn a lot about MMA in the process.

Credits: Mario Gomez 11

Osman C. Hooper Newspaper Awards & Ohio Collegiate Newspaper and Best Website Awards

Collegiate Category 3: Arts & Entertainment Judged by Ellen Kleinerman

Division A/Second place winner, The Post

The first four grafs of an A&E article written for Division A/First Place winner, The News Record

The News Record, University of Cincinnati Judge’s Notes:

Zack Hatfield’s use of prose allows a reader to glide through stories. He used nice imagery in the art therapy story about Robert Simmang and gave detailed descriptions allowing the reader to know the art processes. His review was thoughtful and revealed enough to give the reader a true sense of the movie. Credits: Zack Hatfield

The Post (Ohio University) Judge’s Notes:

Nicely written stories on important topics for students studying playwriting, film and the arts. The descriptive phrases in “Madness” gave the reader a first-hand look at how students learn to write and produce plays. The piece on female filmmakers was well-written and timely as topics go linking the plight of future filmmakers to the “Selma” film. Common Thread opened up a path that likely not many people know of. All three pieces had tight writing, good use of quotes and a variety of sources to provide different voices in the stories.

Credits: Meryl Gottlieb, Elizabeth Backo

The Lantern (The Ohio State University) Judge’s Notes:

The subject matter was interesting and the writing on all three pieces was clear and wellbalanced. Writers used multiple sources to build their stories and gave the reader a unique perspective. I especially liked the description of the family dynamics of Betsy Ross. It gave me insight into its sound without ever hearing them. Utilitarian Beauty described a new approach to spotlighting environmental issues. Weinland Park project quoted lots of people and gave insight into a unique urban neighborhood. Credits: Nick Roll, Jon McAllister, Denise Blough

Osman C. Hooper Newspaper Awards & Ohio Collegiate Newspaper and Best Website Awards

The Collegian (Ashland University) Judge’s Notes:

Nicely written feature stories using the narrative style. The short stories about homecoming were a unique way to tell the story. The profiles gave a deep look into the people’s lives.

Cedars (Cedarville University) Judge’s Notes:

Interesting profile on Nathan Price. Interviewing family and others around him gave great depth to the story.

Cedars (Cedarville University) Judge’s Notes:

Nicely written profile with good use of quotes.

Credits: Nate Spanos

Homecoming coverage from Division B/First Place winner, The Collegian

Cedars, Division B/Second and Third Place winner, was recognized for its student profiles. The judge in this category said that profiles were well-written and interesting.

Osman C. Hooper Newspaper Awards & Ohio Collegiate Newspaper and Best Website Awards

Hooper Category 4: Original Columns Judged by Robert Benz

The Athens News Judge’s Notes: Terry Smith uses his column to educate, inform and amuse his readers -- even at the risk of being eaten by cannibals. His piece on the prisonbound sheriff of Athens County reminds readers of their duty to pay attention to the news. He lists the warning signs that voters chose to ignore. And he closes strong by imploring readers not to be fooled again: “Let’s hope, going forward, that Athens Countians will be more skeptical when a public official rides into office on a white horse, dragging a closet full of skeletons.” In another piece, he urges a third-party probe of the real estate deal surrounding the president of Ohio University’s house. And in an amusing throwback to 1976, he recalls his days as a student tenant when his landlord sent a letter informing him and his roommate their lease would not be renewed. The story resonates in a college town that revels in tales of slumlords and shiftless students. As Smith writes, “The hand-scrawled letter ... perfectly captures the eternal tug-a-war in this college town between mercenary slumlords and irresponsible, slovenly student tenants.” Here’s hoping he manages to dodge the cannibals to continue his important work.

Credits: Terry Smith

Terry Smith writes about his experience on July 19, 1976. Smith and his roommates received a letter from his then-landlord explaining how their rent would not be renewed. Smith explains the conditions of the house and asks the audience to answer who is responsible for the terrible conditions of their apartment: the terrible tenants, the terrible landlord or some combination of the two? The letter pictured here reads: “Tom, It is not possible to re-rent the apartment to you, Terry and John; by the standards of the Code Office you would not qualify as good tenants for standard housing. Sorry, but I guess you will have to find some other place to live this fall. If I hear of any place, I will let you know. Respectfully, Joe”

Hudson Hub-Times Judge’s Notes: Tim Troglen’s Smoke Signals column addresses issues every community knows too well: disgraced heroes, drug addiction, roadside memorials to fallen family members. His direct, straightforward writing brings a clear-eyed perspective to these issues, and through his reaction to the events he describes, readers are offered an opportunity to examine their own views and opinions. Troglen, a former police officer, is particularly powerful when ruminating on a popular police chief who is accused of sexual harassment. He was a fan of the chief, as were many readers, and his sense of betrayal is palpable. And he doesn’t pull punches: “Unwanted touching, taking pictures of a female officer in a compromising position, then bragging about it, and engaging in forced sexual conversation is not fun — it’s harassment.” When a flag and cross are removed from the spot where a young man died in a tragic motorcycle accident, Troglen talks to the victim’s mother. Something he never gave much thought to -- roadside memorials -- suddenly takes on a whole new significance as he tries to help her recover the missing items. He closes the column with a powerful statement: “No family should be forced to grieve twice over the loss of a child.” If the person who took those items read this column, I can’t imagine how he or she wouldn’t return them...

Credits: Tim Troglen Osman C. Hooper Newspaper Awards & Ohio Collegiate Newspaper and Best Website Awards

Putnam County Sentinel

Barberton Herald

Chagrin Valley Times

Judge’s Notes:

I often lose patience with the columnists who traffic in first-person writing at the expense of including the audience. There’s no danger of that in Cheryl Vespoint’s columns. She tackles topics that are directly relevant to her readership, and she doesn’t pull punches when it’s time to call people out. Whether it’s about elected officials behaving badly at a meeting or landlords letting vacant storefronts scar their town, these columns take a stand with a focus on what’s best for the community. They’re short, to the point and no-nonsense. Even when Vespoint ventures into a more personal column, discussing Internet scams and the problems she’s faced with phishing, you can almost see the readers nodding in commiseration, having witnessed similar things themselves.

While there’s no original reporting here, Lange performs one of the most critical tasks columnists face: putting complex events in perspective. His columns range from local to national in scope, and he does a fine job of keeping government “malarkey” in the spotlight while providing perspective relevant to the topics he tackles. In the case of the Ebola column, he brings home a national issue with a sane, sober discussion of the situation while politicians were making hay in their efforts to politicize it.

Childless by choice, I usually have a difficult time relating to mommy bloggers/columnists. That’s not the case with Sarah Fryling Erchenbrecher’s columns. She tackles universal themes that I suspect all parents face, and she does so with humor and amusing turns of phrase. Her “Having munch with lello confingos” is delightful (kudos the the headline writer, btw) with turns of phrase such as “sentient ball of knees and elbows.” To be successful, a column must transcend the writer, speaking to shared experiences that all readers will relate to. These columns accomplish that. Her column on Christmas reminds parents of their role in “writing the stories that your kids will tell in the future, and that is, for lack of a better phrase, super cool.” Super cool, indeed. Credits: Sarah FrylingErchenbrecher

Credits: Dave Lange

Credits: Cheryl Vespoint

Full column of Division B/First Place winner, Putnam County Sentinel

Osman C. Hooper Newspaper Awards & Ohio Collegiate Newspaper and Best Website Awards

Perry County Tribune Judge’s Notes: The tagline to Josh Givens’s column promises that his articles “will be humorous, heart warming and carry a life lesson — well, sometimes.” And he delivers on that promise. Givens is an everyman, “just a janitor” who grapples with the issues his readers likely face every day. While his writing is rooted in his own experiences, it branches out to make statements we all can relate to. He doesn’t flinch at tackling difficult topics. Gay marriage. The Ferguson unrest. The depression we all suffer from time to time. And he does so with a deft touch. There’s no preaching here. We watch him educate himself, and in the process, we too are educated. I suspect that even readers who don’t agree with his conclusions have to concede this is a thoughtful writer who isn’t afraid to challenge his core beliefs with open-minded determination.

Credits: Josh Givens

Yellow Springs News Judge’s Notes: Lauren Heaton’s columns are a great example of the critical role a local columnist plays in the news ecosystem. They’re concise, well-written and focus on issues that directly affect her audience. Appalled by a police shooting at the Beaver Creek Walmart, she turns attention to an opportunity for her community to ensure its police force doesn’t make the same mistake. There’s no police bashing here. Rather, she’s urging the community to participate in a process that will help discuss how to help the police do their job better. Her conclusion is right on the mark: “It should help to carry us further toward a department of police who are trained to help, not harm. Just how much force to use while providing the help is what the discussion is all about.” In a similar fashion, she discusses private funding for public schools, informing her readers about similar situations in other jurisdictions and how they might or might not apply locally. Again, we find her urging her readers to participate in the process, to demand transparency and to insert themselves into the democratic process. It’s refreshing to see a journalist who takes her Fourth Estate duties seriously. And she’s not afraid to have fun, either. In a column that sounds as if she’s about to discuss an epic sports struggle, she deftly shifts to discuss a music competition. Well done.

s charges don’t further debate Credits: Lauren Heaton

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Vandalia Drummer News

Collegiate Category 4: Opinion Writing Judged by Andy Young

The Jambar (Youngstown State University) Judge’s Notes:

Jambar’s staff served its readers well by focusing tightly on issues and events unique to the Youngstown State campus. Its editorials, although long, were balanced, thoughtful and opinionated without being strident.

The Independent Collegian (University of Toledo) Judge’s Notes:

Judge’s Notes:

The Independent Collegian focused appropriately on issues specific to the University of Toledo.

Ms. Ensley focused on issues specific to OU and Athens in her columns on activism and a center catering to pregnant women and girls.

Opinion section of Division A/ Second Place winner, The Independent Collegian

The Post (Ohio University)

Credits: Jessica Ensley

Osman C. Hooper Newspaper Awards & Ohio Collegiate Newspaper and Best Website Awards

T&C Magazine (Otterbein University) Judge’s Notes:

Otterbein’s staff clearly understood the importance of Anna Schiffbauer’s lawsuit and the need to explain it to readers, but the staff was not content to document and celebrate the progress of the suit, filed in February 2014. It brought its own challenge to the administration a year later over the university president’s refusal to let a reporter cover an issue before the trustees, whose meetings were normally open.

The Pulse (University of Findlay) Judge’s Notes:

Ms. Nickel used specifics to describe her reaction to her mother’s death, explaining, for example, how grief overwhelmed her in “crashing waves.”

Credits: Abbey Nickel

Cedars (Cedarville University) Judge’s Notes:

Mr. Johnson wrestled with an important issue in his column on Charlie Hebdo.

Credits: Erik Johnson Osman C. Hooper Newspaper Awards & Ohio Collegiate Newspaper and Best Website Awards

Hooper Category 5: Best Editorial Judged by Barb Hipsman Springer

Solon Times Judge’s Notes: Well-researched, pointed commentary on Nestle’s seeming end-run on local municipal officials.

Credits: Dave Lange

Second Place winner, The Telegram

First Place winner, Solon Times

The Telegram

Archbold Buckeye

Yellow Springs News

Judge’s Notes:

Shop locally. When a local paper reminds us of that, how can we argue? Well-written, we’re sure your point has been well-taken!

Touched a nerve with the Turnpike editorial - well-deserved criticism of a state plan to siphon off (Oh, Borrow...) money from turnpike revenue to fund other road projects. Writing hits hard. Let’s hope it is heard.

Good review of an issue that obviously concerns the public in Y.S. Questions raised; options noted. Seems to be a good look at an evolving controversy.

Credits: Steven P. Keller

Credits: David Pugh 19

Credits: Diane Chiddister

Osman C. Hooper Newspaper Awards & Ohio Collegiate Newspaper and Best Website Awards

Collegiate Category 5: Sports Coverage Judged by Mike Shearer

The Kent Stater (Kent State University)

The Post (Ohio University)

Judge’s Notes:

Sports reporting must be about more than game stories. This entry had solid enterprise reporting and strong features on topics likely to connect with its readers.

Another very strong entry with solid features and compelling writing. Well done.

The Lantern (The Ohio State University)

Credits: Luke O’Roark

Not only are these two from the same high school, but they’ve been best friends since they were three years old. Division A/Second Place winner, The Post, explores their friendship and hockey skills.

Division A/First Place winner, The Kent Stater

The Collegian (Ashland University)

The Pulse (University of Findlay) Division B/First Place winner, The Collegian

Osman C. Hooper Newspaper Awards & Ohio Collegiate Newspaper and Best Website Awards

Hooper Category 6: Sports Coverage Judged by Hans Meyer

ThisWeek Westerville News & Public Opinion Judge’s Notes: In a tough category to judge because of a number of similarly strong entries, Westerville takes the top spot because of its must-see photography. I also appreciate the depth of its coverage and the compelling stories its writers weave into even the most mundane game coverage. The features that highlight each member of a team combine good design with more than run-of-the-mill content. I like that it focuses on players’ achievements rather than their favorite movie or song.

ThisWeek Olentangy Valley News Judge’s Notes: The OV does a great job providing thorough and interesting coverage of the high school sports scene in the area. It combines good design, lots of color photos and exhaustive coverage to bring a sports community what it needs. I appreciate that it features some of the lesser followed sports, such as swimming and diving and gives them front page real esate.

Hudson Hub-Times Judge’s Notes: Sharp writing by Frank Aceto and compelling feature stories elevate this section above most others. These sports sections contain lots of relevant interesting content to bring a reader community together.

Credits: Frank Aceto

Chagrin Valley Times Judge’s Notes: The Chagrin Valley Times sports section truly devotes itself to community sports. With several strong feature stories and compelling action photos instead of provided scores and team photos, the paper stands above the competition. My hat’s off to Tony Lange for finding stories to tell and not jsut scores to report, and for the designers for using the tabloid size and color photos to the fullest effect. Credits: Tony Lange

West Life Judge’s Notes: Lots of compelling photography and exhaustive coverage of the local teams make the West Life sports stand out from a crowded field. The writers do a good job finding interesting stories in each game they cover, and the photographers and designers go above and beyond to make the paper visually appealing and eye-catching.

Credits: Ryan Kaczmarski, Joe Ostrica

Osman C. Hooper Newspaper Awards & Ohio Collegiate Newspaper and Best Website Awards

Geauga County Maple Leaf Judge’s Notes: I loved the feature story and photography on the new McGarry gym court. I also loved how this paper involves its readership. I like the featured player and Spirity of the Redskins column each week. The design and writing are compelling and draw the community together around their teams. I appreciate the paper does more than just cover games as well.

Credits: Jamie Ward, Pam Miller

ThisWeek Tri-Village News Judge’s Notes: A solid, clean layout highlights the true strength of this section: great content. The writers focus more on telling stories than covering games. Strong, emotional photos also underscore the impact sports has on this community. I especially enjoyed the strong feature on Grant Varner and the rain-soaked photos of Grandview football. The shootout win Grandview soccer story also displayed the true thrill of victory in both the photography and the story that didn’t just lead with the score.

Pike County News Watchman Judge’s Notes: It looks like she’s a one-woman band, but Julie Billings has a great nose for sports news. She excels at capturing the emotion and allure of high school sports through writing, photography and design. I especially liked her track photos of Timothy Trawick and Maddy Reed. She also understands that often one large, compelling photo is better than a bunch of small ones. All in all, this is a great example of what local sports staffs can accomplish.

Credits: Julie Billings

Englewood Independent Judge’s Notes: Good, clean design and writing. Good use of large photos.

Credits: Ron Nunnari

Fulton County Expositor

Vinton County Courier

Vandalia Drummer News

Judge’s Notes:

The Expositor has a balanced design that features lots of local sports photos without overwhelming the readers. It also does a good job establishing the hierarchy of stories. The writing also finds what’s most important and interesting about the games being covered and features it in easy to read chunks.

The Courier uses design and photography effectively to differentiate between stories and establish which is most important. It covers important high school games competently by giving readers what they want. The paper does a great job with a small staff.

Nice clean layouts feature big, bold headlines that draw attention to well-written game coverage and interesting photography. Credits: Darrell Wacker

Osman C. Hooper Newspaper Awards & Ohio Collegiate Newspaper and Best Website Awards

Division A/First Place winner, ThisWeek Westerville News & Public Opinion

Division B/First Place winner, Chagrin Valley Times

Division C/First Place winner, ThisWeek Tri-Village News

Osman C. Hooper Newspaper Awards & Ohio Collegiate Newspaper and Best Website Awards

Collegiate Category 6: Design Judged by Julianna Sukle

The Lantern (The Ohio State University) Judge’s Notes: Beautiful, airy and clean layouts — especially on the front page. Interesting, modern appearance of masthead. Great color correcting, placement and cropping regarding photos.

The Post (Ohio University) Judge’s Notes: Nice play on serif and sans serif fonts throughout. Great skills regarding creative layouts for otherwise dry topics. Great photography; use of photography. Good, consistent and thorough use of style guide.

Credits: Jake Newton

The News Record (University of Cincinnati) Judge’s Notes: Nice use of margins — very clean. Clear, established visual hierarchy. Appreciate the headers — unorthodox yet classic. Very nice front page for midterm elections — clean yet dynamic.

Osman C. Hooper Newspaper Awards & Ohio Collegiate Newspaper and Best Website Awards

Cedars (Cedarville University) Judge’s Notes: Very nice pull quote structure.Unobtrusive ad placement. Creative photography.

T&C Magazine (Otterbein University) Judge’s Notes: Appreciate open quote for pull quotes.

The Chimes (Capital University) Judge’s Notes: Appreciate the font utilized throughout for body and headlines.

Osman C. Hooper Newspaper Awards & Ohio Collegiate Newspaper and Best Website Awards

Hooper Category 7: Design Judged by Kevin Dilley

The Athens News Judge’s Notes: Overall clean, modern design that sticks to it’s design plan in a cohesive way.

ThisWeek Dublin Villager Judge’s Notes: Strong photography and good use of layers in the design set this publication apart.

ThisWeek Olentangy Valley News Judge’s Notes: Good use of visuals to support a clean solid design.

Osman C. Hooper Newspaper Awards & Ohio Collegiate Newspaper and Best Website Awards

ThisWeek New Albany News Judge’s Notes: Solid foundational design that gets a boost from excellent photojournalism that is played very well.

Chagrin Valley Times Judge’s Notes: Clean, crisp design with lots of good detail and surprises throughout for the reader.

Credits: Amanda Petkiewicz, Maureen Bole

Englewood Independent Judge’s Notes: Good use of spacing, lines and typography make for a very organized and clear design and for a good read.

Credits: Kirsta Simmons

Pike County News Watchman Judge’s Notes: Fun and modern design has a lot of impact. Use of whitespace and other tools create an easy-tonavigate design.

Credits: Stephanie Stanley

ThisWeek Tri-Village News (Grandview) Judge’s Notes: Solid design foundation buoyed by strong photojournalism that is played very well.

Osman C. Hooper Newspaper Awards & Ohio Collegiate Newspaper and Best Website Awards

Vinton County Courier Judgeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Notes: This entry stood out in an otherwise weak category. Good typographic heirarchy and clean design helped place this above the others.

Credits: Angela Wince, Tyler Buchanan

Ada Herald Judgeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Notes: The overall design is solid and organized well for the reader.

Osman C. Hooper Newspaper Awards & Ohio Collegiate Newspaper and Best Website Awards

Collegiate Category 7: Photojournalism Judged by Keith Rathbun

The Post (Ohio University) Judge’s Notes: Union Street Fire, photographed by Arielle Berger. Not every picture tells 1,000 words; this photograph tells one million. Berger brilliantly captures the moment of raw emotion between two friends as one tries desperately to console the other. It’s beautiful but in such a heartwrenching way.

Credits: Arielle Berger

The Kent Stater (Kent State University) Judge’s Notes:

Rachel Le Goubin is there at the beginning when two Kent gymnasts chalk up before the start of their competition. So expertly photographed you want to squint so as not to get chalk in your eyes.

Credits: Rachel

LeGoubin, Erin McLaughlin

The Lantern (The Ohio State University) Judge’s Notes:

When opportunity presents itself, you’d better grab the ring. The Ohio State University had just won the first ever College Football Playoff, and Mark Batke “scored” the winning photograph. Pure celebration of Meyer hoisting the trophy and Elliot’s childlike wonderment captures sports’ thrill of victory.

Credits: Mark Batke,

Yann Schreiber

Osman C. Hooper Newspaper Awards & Ohio Collegiate Newspaper and Best Website Awards

Cedars (Cedar University) Judge’s Notes: Pie eating, photographed by Tianle Li. Most “foodeating competition” photos are disgusting. Li captures a moment in which the competitor actually makes the competition look appetizing. Simply a case of the photographer and competitor having their pie and eating it, too.

Credits: Jillian Philyaw, Tianle Li

The Pulse (University of Findlay) Judge’s Notes: Rector and Parachute, photographed by Jingyou Liao and Tijana Raicevic. Concert photography is difficult, but these two artists have their collective finger on The Pulse. Quality photos enhanced by an appealing layout: a wide angle shot of the band “sets the stage” for three classic performance shots.

Credits: Tijana Raicevic, Jingyun Liao

The Collegian (Ashland University) Judge’s Notes: Photographer Halee Heironimus has a great eye: Anthony Taylor, Ashland University star running back, is caught not only breaking the school’s alltime rushing yardage record, but he’s pictured doing an inadvertent Heisman Trophy pose in the moment. Desmond Howard’s pose was staged, but this one is all natural, photographed expertly by Heironimus. What’s better than being in the right place at the right time? Taking advantage of it.

Credits: Halee Heironimus, Ashley Santore, Jane Yount

Osman C. Hooper Newspaper Awards & Ohio Collegiate Newspaper and Best Website Awards

Hooper Category 8: Advertising Judged by Kevin Dilley

ThisWeek Westerville News & Public Opinion Judge’s Notes: Good range of designs that are simple with strong calls to action.

The Athens News Judge’s Notes: Clever and cute designs that get the message across quickly.

Chagrin Valley Times Judge’s Notes: Unique group of designs that combine good design, strong calls to action and also fit within the overall design of the publication.

Geauga County Maple Leaf

Putnam County Sentinel

Judge’s Notes:

Credits: Betty Ellerbrock,

Several strong ads in this group.

Jordan Blythe

Credits: Connie Gabor, Travis Rock

Division B/First Place winner, Chagrin Valley Times

Division A/First Place winner, ThisWeek Westerville News & Public Opinion

Division A/Second Place winner, The Athens News

Osman C. Hooper Newspaper Awards & Ohio Collegiate Newspaper and Best Website Awards

Journal & Noble County Leader

Progressor-Times

Judge’s Notes:

Clean and to-the-point design that works well for the client and the reader. Credits: Mary Kromer

Overall a close group among top winners in this category. This group of ads stood out with clean and snappy designs that used color well to grab attention and avoided over-design.

Judge’s Notes:

ThisWeek Tri-Village News (Grandview) Judge’s Notes: Solid designs throughout. Very clean and crisp.

Division C/Second Place winner, the ProgressorTimes Division C/First Place winner, Journal & Noble County Leader Division D/First Place winner, North Ridgeville Press

North Ridgeville Press

Yellow Springs News

Judge’s Notes:

Overall clean, organized and effective design.

Best ad of the category is Evan’s Steak House! That combined with a strong group made this easily first place. Clean and crisp designs with good calls to action. Credits: Connie Thomas

Judge’s Notes: Credits: Robert Hasek, Matt Minde, Suzanne Szempruch

Vermilion Photojournal Credits: Tracy Lee Miller, Connie Thomas, JoAnne Porras

Osman C. Hooper Newspaper Awards & Ohio Collegiate Newspaper and Best Website Awards

Collegiate Category 8: Headline Writing Judged by Peter Comings

The Kent Stater (Kent State University) Judge’s Notes: Meaningful, succinct headlines that accurately reflect the stories they serve.

The Jambar (Youngstown State University)

The Lantern (The Ohio State University)

Judge’s Notes:

Effective headlines.

Judge’s Notes:

Effective word play to engage readers with the stories. Nice to see Clint Eastwood allusion.

Credits: Gabby Fellows, Liam Boquet, Justin Wier

Cedars (Cedarville University)

T&C Magazine (Otterbein University)

Judge’s Notes:

This publication wins for visual image created and the dual meaning of getting behind the scene to understand the SCAB. Other two headlines are sound.

Use of hashtags relays conversation happening online.

The Chimes (Capital University) Credits: Danny Hamen

Osman C. Hooper Newspaper Awards & Ohio Collegiate Newspaper and Best Website Awards

Hooper Category 9: Best News Photo Judged by Terry Rentner, Kathy Bradshaw and Nancy Brendlinger

ThisWeek Olentangy Valley News Judge’s Notes: The circular effect with the focus on the mother captured the tension of the potential tragedy in this photo by Bickel. It made me want to read the story to see if the sisters were OK.

Credits: Joshua Bickel

ThisWeek Dublin Villager Judge’s Notes:

Bickel made everything work in this photo -- the framing, the diagonal line, the colors and in particular the exact moment to get both boys’ faces at their most intent.

Credits: Joshua Bickel

The Athens News Judge’s Notes: The moment was one to be photographed, and Powell captured just the right moment with the inscrutable expression on Kelly’s face.

Credits: Dennis E. Powell Osman C. Hooper Newspaper Awards & Ohio Collegiate Newspaper and Best Website Awards

Chagrin Valley Times Judge’s Notes: Beautiful shot of a local hero. Credits: Peggy Turbett

The Telegram (Jackson) Judge’s Notes:

Good job showing the damage.

Chagrin Valley Times

Credits: Bradford Sherman

Judge’s Notes:

Captures the pain in this moment to represent the heart of the story. Credits: Geoff Powers

Osman C. Hooper Newspaper Awards & Ohio Collegiate Newspaper and Best Website Awards

The Gazette Judge’s Notes:

Good action shot. Peeks curiosity about how this happened. Good irony of “fire and ice.” Not a routine photo.

Credits: Dee Riley

Geauga Times Courier Judge’s Notes:

Photo tells the entire story. Captures emotion on faces of everyone in the photo (especially the little boy). Good use of scale of people in forefront and background. Excellent camera angle. Excellent composition that is simple and uncluttered. Credits: Philip Botta

Progressor-Times Judge’s Notes:

Photo tells a great story. Interesting subject matter. Excellent composition. Good scale of people in the photo forefront and background).

Credits: Kyle Hunter Osman C. Hooper Newspaper Awards & Ohio Collegiate Newspaper and Best Website Awards

Yellow Springs News Judge’s Notes:

Good angle. Tells a story with action and expression. Excellent use of b/w photography. Excellent composition with church and other protestors in background. Photo shows diversity.

Credits: Lauren Heaton

Vandalia Drummer News Judge’s Notes:

Very unique photo. Good camera angle, color and balance. Photo draws reader into the story. Captures the emotion of the situation. Credits: Ron Nunnari

Vermilion Photojournal Judge’s Notes:

Good action photo that tells a great story of perseverance. Excellent color and depth. Excellent composition and camera angle.

Credits: Markos Paradissis

Osman C. Hooper Newspaper Awards & Ohio Collegiate Newspaper and Best Website Awards

Collegiate Category 9: Best Multi-Media Package Judged by Kirk Dougal

The Kent Stater (Kent State University) Judge’s Notes:

Excellent use of production skills. Good choices on techniques such as voiceovers with indirect action so the viewer was hearing about one part of the story while watching another, furthering the storyline and interest while keeping it to a tight time frame.

Credits: Chelsae Ketchum

The Lantern (The The Lantern (The Ohio State University) Ohio State University)

Anthony (left) left his college scholarship to help Vann (right), his younger brother, train for the NBA. Division A/First Place winner, The Kent Stater, used video and an article to create its multi-media package.

Judge’s Notes:

Jarvis was a national story for college football fans, but this multimedia package brought in his personality and made him feel like the kid next door. Excellent choice in keeping him in shot for almost every frame, heightening the emotion for Jarvis even when using voiceovers, etc.

Solid piece of reporting with good techniques.

Credits: Hayden Grove

Credits: Franz Ross

Jacob Jarvis, a teen with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, was an honorary captain of the Ohio State Buckeyes in 2014. In a video produced for Lantern TV, Hayden Grove interviews Jarvis and his family.

Cedars (Cedarville University)

The Collegian (Ashland University)

Judge’s Notes:

Credits: Halee Heironimus

This multimedia project made good use of music, voiceovers, and transitions in addition to the standard video. The editors also made good use of camera angles, including one where the subject was visible in the background creating her art while her parents framed her with their heads and talked about her struggles. That shot alone gave the piece weight and emotion.

Division B/First Place winner, Cedars, covers a university professor’s daughter who has NF2, a disease that destroys her physical body. Cedars examines how she inspires others through blogging and painting.

Credits: Emily Paul Osman C. Hooper Newspaper Awards & Ohio Collegiate Newspaper and Best Website Awards

Hooper Category 10: Best Feature Photo Judged by Mitch McKenney (Division A and B); Bob Stewart (Division C and D)

ThisWeek Olentangy Valley News Judge’s Notes:

The Athens News

“Go get art of Taste of Spring.” I can imagine the editor asking for it and the photographer’s dread. But this sweet shot of a little guy enjoying the treats turned an oh-no assignment into a winning image.

Judge’s Notes:

Credits: Lorrie Cecil

Eye-catching moment that really illustrates this story about vape culture. The only thing that could have made this better was if his vapor cigarette were visible -- presumably it’s just out of the frame in his left hand.

Credits: Dennis E. Powell

ThisWeek Westerville News & Public Opinion

Judge’s Notes:

Shot through glass in less-than-ideal light, this image captures a child’s delight with a Christmas train display. It could be a frame grab of a remake of “A Christmas Story.’’

Credits: Lorrie Cecil 39

Osman C. Hooper Newspaper Awards & Ohio Collegiate Newspaper and Best Website Awards

The Register Herald

Judge’s Notes:

The photographer captures a child’s face during a candlelight vigil for crime victims. Low lighting and the solemn moment made this a difficult shot to get.

Credits: Jeremy Erskine

Chagrin Valley Times

Judge’s Notes:

The Register Herald Judge’s Notes: How can you not smile along with the kid who just won the spelling bee? In this case, his classmate’s cheerful reaction completes the moment.

Credits: Eddie Mowen Jr.

A long shutter speed helped the photographer show the moves as two dancers prepare for a performance. The result is an eye-catching image that conveys the dancers’ grace in a way that a stop-action image could not. Credits: Tyler Stabile

Pike County News Watchman

Judge’s Notes:

Strong, creative image that captures the emotion of a loss as well as an honoring of a fallen public servant. Credits: Stephanie Stanley

Geauga Times Courier Judge’s Notes:

Highly dramatic scene that captures a community coming together for a winter festival. Credits: Peggy Turbett

Paulding Progress

Judge’s Notes:

A beautiful image that surprises us. Credits: Melinda Krick

Osman C. Hooper Newspaper Awards & Ohio Collegiate Newspaper and Best Website Awards

Solon Times

Judge’s Notes:

This photo captures the intensity of the music director. Draws the reader into the story. Powerful!

Credits: Geoff Powers

Solon Times

Judge’s Notes:

The golden moment captures the effort of this individual as she strives to build her strength. An image worthy of cutting out and posting it on the fridge.

Credits: Geoff Powers

Archbold Buckeye

Judge’s Notes:

Well-composed image of a community activity, which captures the energy of the moment. Credits: David Pugh

Osman C. Hooper Newspaper Awards & Ohio Collegiate Newspaper and Best Website Awards

Collegiate Category 10: Best Website Judged by Erica Peterson

The Post (Ohio University) Judge’s Notes: The clean, uncluttered look of the site allows the strong photographs to shine. The site was updated regularly, even during winter break. And having the Twitter feed prominently displayed helps keep the site current and alive.

The Lantern (The Ohio State University) Judge’s Notes: The layout lets the eye quickly scan over the latest news, and the Recent News column is a nice feature.

The Kent Stater (Kent State University) Judge’s Notes: Nice photos and carousel and variety of stories. Making Latest Updates more visible, perhaps integrated into the carousel, would better showcase the timely work you do.

Cedars (Cedarville University) Judge’s Notes:

The nice, clean look and large photos make a visually appealing site. Lots of links, clearly labeled and easy to maneuver, make for a pleasant browsing experience.

Osman C. Hooper Newspaper Awards & Ohio Collegiate Newspaper and Best Website Awards

Hooper Category 11: Best Sports Photo Judged by Leonardo Carrizo

ThisWeek Westerville News & Public Opinion

ThisWeek Olentangy Valley News Judge’s Notes:

Sometimes a sports feature photo can tell a story better than a peak action photo. I was drawn to the celebration and expressions. Credits: Joshua Bickel

Credits: Chris Parker

ThisWeek Dublin Villager Judge’s Notes: It’s nice to see photo coverage of non-traditional sports.

Credits: Ryan M.L. Young

Osman C. Hooper Newspaper Awards & Ohio Collegiate Newspaper and Best Website Awards

Chagrin Valley Times

Judge’s Notes:

Great peak action and timing. Credits: Geoff Powers

Huber Heights Courier Judge’s Notes: Wow, the player looks like he is flying; clean background and expression on his face. Credits: Adam Lacy

Chagrin Valley Times

Pike County News Watchman

Capturing a running back upside down always makes a good picture! Credits: Geoff Powers

Good job getting higher to make this image. Credits: Julie Billings

Chagrin Valley Times

Pike County News Watchman

Judge’s Notes:

I love the expression on the players sliding into third base. Credits: Philip Botta

Judge’s Notes:

The determination on the player’s face completes the image. Credits: Julie Billings

Osman C. Hooper Newspaper Awards & Ohio Collegiate Newspaper and Best Website Awards

Archbold Buckeye

Judge’s Notes:

I was intrigued by the body language in this image and then noticed the smile on the player. The caption completed the story. Credits: Mary Huber

Archbold Buckeye

Judge’s Notes:

Good moment and decision to crop in to make the action stand out. Credits: Mary Huber

The Delphos Herald

Judge’s Notes: Great moment.

Credits: Jim Metcalfe 45

Osman C. Hooper Newspaper Awards & Ohio Collegiate Newspaper and Best Website Awards

Hooper Category 12: Best Headline Judged by John Kroll

Chagrin Valley Times Judge’s Notes: The headline reveals layers of meaning as the reader goes through the story. Very good accomplishment in just three words. Credits: Ellen Kleinerman

Vinton County Courier Judge’s Notes: In a sea of pun headlines, this one stood out because both meanings actually worked.

Credits: Angela Wince,

Geauga County Maple Leaf

Journal & Noble County Leader

Judge’s Notes:

Credits: Anne Chlovechok

The headline is unusual enough to attract the eyes even if readers aren’t familiar with the show.

Tyler Buchanan

Osman C. Hooper Newspaper Awards & Ohio Collegiate Newspaper and Best Website Awards

Hooper Category 13: Special Edition or Section Judged by John Kroll

The Athens News Judge’s Notes: Incredibly well-done story that developed over time. Never dropped a comma while exposing the kind of news most news rooms never uncover. Credits: Conor Morris, Terry Smith

ThisWeek Westerville News & Public Opinion Judge’s Notes: Acres of content. The compact usefulness of the highlights boxes and the consistent formatting of the stories made me wish they’d gone all the way toward formatting, with bite-sized info bits rather than long and repetitive stories -- using the space gained to tell more overall stories about trends and strategies.

ThisWeek Dublin Villager Judge’s Notes: Liked the hole-by-hole commentary; wished it engaged the maps more directly with callout boxes. Liked the list of 40 defining things; wish it were kept together and given more design attention.

Osman C. Hooper Newspaper Awards & Ohio Collegiate Newspaper and Best Website Awards

Chagrin Valley Times Judge’s Notes: By far the best-looking in this category. Clean, consistent typography; lush use of photos. Simple, modular layout. Comprehensive coverage. Credits: H Kenneth Douthit III

The Telegram (Jackson) Judge’s Notes: Comprehensive and ambitious. Busy design and inconsistent typography detract from -- and on some pages make it difficult to read -- the copy. A cleaner approach, relying on better photography rather than clip art and candy-colored backgrounds, would better serve the content.

The People’s Defender Judge’s Notes: This section stands out from other sports previews for its focused cover, clean layouts, and one simple but reader-friendly feature: Captions (or at least names) on all photos.

Credits: Mark Carpenter

OVERALL COMMENTS:

Lots of reader service. Keeping things simple -- consistent typography, captions on all photos -- can elevate things to the next level.

Osman C. Hooper Newspaper Awards & Ohio Collegiate Newspaper and Best Website Awards

Geauga Times Courier Judge’s Notes: The complete package: superb content, writing, organization and design.

Credits: H Kenneth Douthit III

Paulding Progress Judge’s Notes: Timeline approach shows how a simple idea can yield a smart, attractive section.

Credits: Melinda Krick, Kelly Pracht

OVERALL COMMENTS:

The two award winners show that size is no limit on excellence when editors combine a thoughtful approach to content with good writing and sparkling design.

Yellow Springs News

Solon Times

Judge’s Notes:

A clean, uncluttered design shows off extensive content. Good mix of lists and interesting, well-written features. I would only wish for a strong opening spread rather than phone numbers and an ad directory.

Strong from top to bottom: Beautiful photos and design, thorough coverage.

Credits: H Kenneth Douthit III

OVERALL COMMENTS: 49

Vermilion Photojournal Judge’s Notes: Strong contender thanks to consistent, easy-to-navigate packaging of short, to-the-point stories.

Impressive, reader-friendly issues stuffed with useful content.

Osman C. Hooper Newspaper Awards & Ohio Collegiate Newspaper and Best Website Awards

Hooper Category 14: Community Awareness Judged by Dave Martens

The Press (Millbury) Judge’s Notes: This reporting team is an excellent example of how a newsroom can champion a story to make life better for a community. Their thorough, understandable series informed and empowered readers to make a difference.

Solon Times

The Athens News

Judge’s Notes:

Reporter Sue Reid has a knack for finding the right people to put a face on the story. She’s also a fine writer. Her series on Solon’s rich diversity is a clear winner.

Reporter David DeWitt showed readers how human trafficking impacted life in the community. He brought home a story most readers didn’t realize existed in their town.

Credits: Sue Reid

Credits: David DeWitt

Putnam County Sentinel Judge’s Notes: By creating a special section for the local Kiwanis Health Fair, the Sentinel helped their readers see a path to a healthier lifestyle. No doubt their efforts increased traffic as well.

Credits: Nancy Kline Osman C. Hooper Newspaper Awards & Ohio Collegiate Newspaper and Best Website Awards

Hooper Category 15: Best Website (Independent) Judged by Steve Dorsey

Geauga County Maple Leaf Judge’s Notes: I was impressed with a fresh take on local news, clear attention given to visuals and the only example I saw that too advantage of technology to present a responsive site that would be user friendly at any size, on any device.

Clermont Sun

The Telegram (Jackson)

Judge’s Notes:

Easy to navigate and find what you seek. Clear sense of community. Direct design wins points in a category where design is lacking among the competition. Serviceable and user friendly.

Colorful.

Credits: Phillip Buffington and Rick Callebs

Osman C. Hooper Newspaper Awards & Ohio Collegiate Newspaper and Best Website Awards

Hooper Category 15: Best Website (Group) Judged by Steve Dorsey

Paulding Progress Credits: Melinda Krick

OVERALL COMMENTS:

Putnam County Sentinel

Ada Herald

Stronger photo presence than most other sites in these categories. Vertical rotators are at least visual. Simple navigation made it easier to find what youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looking for. Article page-level design distinguished from competition.

Osman C. Hooper Newspaper Awards & Ohio Collegiate Newspaper and Best Website Awards

Frank E. Deaner Award for General Excellence in Collegiate Journalism

Osman C. Hooper Newspaper Awards & Ohio Collegiate Newspaper and Best Website Awards

Hooper Newspaper of the Year Award

Osman C. Hooper Newspaper Awards & Ohio Collegiate Newspaper and Best Website Awards

Special thanks to all our judges!

Collegiate Judges: Erica Peterson, Record Publishing Keith Rathbun, The Budget (Sugarcreek) Peter Comings, West Life (Westlake) Mike Shearer, Gannett Ellen Kleinerman, Chagrin Valley Times Kirk Dougal, Times Bulletin (Van Wert) Dick Morris, The Daily Standard (Celina) Andy Young, The Chronicle Telegram (Elyria) Steve Keller, The Telegram (Jackson) Phillip Buffington, The Telegram (Jackson) Julianna Sukle, Press and Journal (Middletown, PA)

Hooper Judges: Catherine Cassara, Bowling Green State University Terry Rentner, Bowling Green State University Nancy Brendlinger, Bowling Green State University Ken Garland, Bowling Green State University Kathy Bradshaw, Bowling Green State University Mike Sweeney, Ohio University Robert Benz, Ohio University Hans Meyer, Ohio University Bob Stewart, Ohio University Ann Schierhorn, Kent State University John Kroll, Kent State University Barb Hipsman Springer, Kent State University Mitch McKenney, Kent State University Nicole Kraft, Ohio State University Spencer Hunt, Ohio State University Leonardo Carrizo, Ohio State University Kevin Dilley, Ohio State University Dave Martens, York Dispatch (York, PA) Steve Dorsey, Statesman Media (Austin, TX)

Osman C. Hooper Newspaper Awards & Ohio Collegiate Newspaper and Best Website Awards