Student Run Media Best Print Newspaper Story 2 Year/Trade Third Place School Thanksgiving memories First Place Staff Foster Care...We Care Lorain County Community College Angela Wolfe, Sharmayne Schaffer Creative and entertaining recounting of Thanksgiving and what it Tri-C means to different people. Good job researching and providing the human element on a seri- Best TV News Story Trade/2 Year School ous issue. Very thorough and well written. First Place Second Place Hillary Clinton Rallies College Students Tri-C Sex Offenders: You Must Report Angela Wolfe Angela Wolfe Tri-C Tri-C Best Online Report Trade/2 Year School Thorough, balanced reporting on contentious issue that pulled out First Place an important angle about college. Students struggle with obesity Third Place Charlotte Weiss Dr. Church retires Lorain County Community College Staff Second Place Lorain County Community College LCCC president retires Very thorough report on retiring administrator written with short Staff notice. Lorain County Community College Best Print Sports Story 2 Year/Trade School Best Print News Story 4 Year School First Place First Place The New Face of Tri-C Basketball Ohio bill calls for defunding of abortion-performing organizations Mitchel Guy Emily Mills, Allie Johnson Tri-C Kent State University It would have been easy in a profile on a new coach to merely write Very balanced and thorough reporting on controversial topic that glowing things him. And the story does a good job of showing his provided a lot of great supplementary materials for readers. Loved work with the team. But noting the discipline challenges faced by the extras provided in addition to the core reporting and writing the team displayed good journalistic instincts of not bending the skills. facts to the narrative. Well done. Second Place Second Place A call for help: University says more students reporting sexual as- Tri-C Hopefuls Get Their Chance at Soccer Tryouts saults Robert Fenbers Ian Flickinger Tri-C Kent State University Details helped tap into some tryout underdog narratives - the Great job humanizing this important topic and getting into the nu- player working through the injured groin, the coach watching from ances of it. Strong reporting. the sidelines so as not to make players nervous. Helped put the Third Place reader on the field and in the moment. Kent man armed with machete shot and killed by police Third Place Emily Mills, Ian Klein Cross Country takes 9th at nationals Kent State University Cody Grossman, Olivia Moe Love the way this was presented with strong writing and reporting Lorain County Community College supplemented with everything from video to Tweets. Great job using Packed a lot of information into the story. But don’t be afraid to all the tools modern media has to offer. be more judicious with the quotes. Readers don’t need a long, long Best Print Sports Story 4 Year School paragraph’s worth of a quote when a sentence or two will do. And First Place double bylines are tough. Nice job of working together. Making the most of a second chance Best Print Feature Story Trade/2 Year School Stephen Means First Place Kent State University A victim of violence Strong lead sentence. Brought out good emotion with quotes. Alex Delaney-Gesing Good depth Liked the mulitmedia aspects as well; video with team- Lorain County Community College mates reaction and stats sidebar. Exhaustively reported, powerfully written, and diligently pursued. Second Place Great job getting on the record sourcing. The writing distinguished Bitskos death continues to raise questions of athletes competing it also. with heart conditions Second Place Richie Mulhall Students struggle with obesity Kent State University Charlotte Weiss Good lead sentence. Lorain County Community College Strong depth; good job explaining process. Great job humanizing a critical topic. Good use of graphics. Strong writing and research. Best TV News Story 4 Year School Smart Business Akron/Canton First Place Third Place Making a difference Columbus CEO Studying Student Debt Vivian Feke Mary Yost Kent State University Columbus C.E.O. Magazine Best TV Sports Story 4 Year School Features: Package First Place First Place Mogadore High School LeBron Inc.: Sports Superstar. Philanthropist. Businessman. Tyler Carey Staff Kent State University Smart Business Cleveland Best Online Report 4 Year School Second Place First Place Which public CEOs delivered the best bang for the buck? Ohio bill calls for defunding of abortion-performing organizations Steve Watkins Emily Mills, Allie Johnson Cincinnati Business Courier Kent State University Third Place Second Place Biggest bang for the buck Nine dead after plane crash in Akron Evan Weese Allie Johnson, Tyler Singleton Business First Kent State University Features: Trends Business Publications First Place General News The smell of a bust First Place Tom Knox Ohio targeted for $5.7 billion Thai project collection of stories Business First Tom Knox Business First Second Place Addressing the education talent gap Second Place Adam Burroughs The moment of truth: Scott L. Scarborough is confident tough times Smart Business Akron/Canton will soon be a distant memory at the University of Akron Mark Scott Third Place Smart Business Akron/Canton When leaders walk away Dan Shingler, Rachel Abbey McCafferty Third Place Crain’s Cleveland Business Frisch’s is in a pickle Steve Watkins Public Service/Investigative Cincinnati Business Courier First Place Special Report: Manufacturing – The Internet of Things Features: Personality Profile Dennis Seeds First Place Smart Business Cleveland Why this guy won’t lay off the insurance industry Carrie Ghose Second Place Business First Coverage of antiquated Ohio liquor laws Dan Eaton Second Place Business First Steady at the helm: How Dr. Steven Gabbe provided calm leader- ship at Wexner Medical Center while ushering in profound cultural Third Place change Most Connected Jayne Gest Staff Smart Business Columbus Crain’s Cleveland Business Third Place Departments or Columns The throwback kid First Place Dan Eaton Uniquely Columbus Business First Jayne Gest, Jim Mericsko Smart Business Columbus Features: General First Place Second Place Cincinnati’s All-Star festivities a home run for out-of-town visitors, Building Stronger Communities locals Adam Burroughs, Mark Scott Steve Watkins Smart Business Akron/Canton Cincinnati Business Courier Third Place Second Place Care and Feeding The challenge at the edge: Former SpaceX engineer Jeff Taylor Daniel Flowers navigates regulations, fast growth at Event38 Smart Business Akron/Canton Adam Burroughs Daily Newspapers perspective to the story found nowhere else. Breaking News: Single Story Second Place First Place 9 dead in plane crash 9 dead in plane crash Staff Staff Akron Beacon Journal Akron Beacon Journal Excellent coverage of a quickly breaking story that hit all of the This contains remarkable detail considering deadline constraints angles–from the news of the accident to a timeline of local plane and the fact aspects of the story were still unfolding. The reporter crash history. Strong photos really bring the impact of the news to asks all the right questions, enlightening readers with such infor- the reader. mation as the condition of the plane, the chronology of its flights and compelling eyewitness accounts from the scene. Gathering Breaking News: Single-Day Package such detail from events of this nature is never easy and takes com- First Place mitment. This covers all the bases. Job well done! ‘We have lost a brother’ Staff Second Place The Cincinnati Enquirer As creek raged, ‘there was nothing they could do’ Extremely strong and comprehensive reporting on a heart-breaking Cameron Knight, Liz Dufour, Rebecca Butts story. The reporters and photographers clearly took great care to The Cincinnati Enquirer tell the stories of the police officer and the gunman who shot and This story wisely strays from straightforward breaking news into a killed him. The stories provided a great deal of context and depth more personalized account of a flooding tragedy that left several at what must have been an uncertain time for the community. Well people dead. Quotes from survivors are both poignant and detailed. done. Good job! Second Place Third Place Mayor suffers cardiac arrest, crashes SUV Prayer Tom Troy, Ignazio Messina, Lauren Lindstrom Nick Glunt The Blade (Toledo) Medina County Gazette This was a well-reported story. The Blade’s reporters and pho- This is a remarkably thorough accounting of a prayer conflict in- tographers made the reader feel like he or she was witnessing the volving government authorities and the ACLU. The reporter found events as they unfolded. Going the extra mile to interview the Good multiple sources to make this account both objective and informa- Samaritan made this entry truly shine. tive. Third Place Breaking News: Consecutive Days- Same Topic Mayor calls it quits First Place Staff Hopple Street bridge collapse Akron Beacon Journal Staff Good coverage of a bizarre twist in Akron politics. This story The Cincinnati Enquirer was all about context. The reporting carefully wove together the Comprehensive coverage of a deadly construction incident on a mayor’s background with his recent comments to help readers un- major highway. The writing was clear and detailed, providing valu- derstand what happened. able context about the complexities of the incident and the signifi- cance of the area affected. Graphics, photo and video enhanced the General News: Single Story coverage a great deal. Job well done. First Place Heroin is bad: We’re making it worse Second Place Dan Horn, Terry DiMeo Mayor suffers cardiac arrest, crashes SUV; acting mayor steps up The Cincinnati Enquirer Staff Outstanding work. Great writing. Two reporters know their subject, The Blade (Toledo) humanized it, and offered solutions. Excellent work covering this sad story. Tracking down the good Samaritan made this package shine. Second Place How John Kasich could win Third Place Chrissie Thompson Police Cameras The Cincinnati Enquirer Nick Glunt An off-beat, but very engaging, political story. Good job. Medina County Gazette Compelling update about how local police department are ap- Third Place proaching the controversial issues of body cameras and increased 482 Mile Pilgrimage public scrutiny. Elizabeth Dobbins Medina County Gazette Breaking News: Ongoing Coverage A well-told tale. First Place ‘This is without question a murder’ General News: Multiple Stories- Same Topic Staff First Place The Cincinnati Enquirer Ohio charter schools This package covered this national story in a balanced manner Doug Livingston which didn’t miss an angle. The Enquirer provided the kind of depth Akron Beacon Journal only found in outstanding local media. For example, its look at Wow! What an effort. This is what journalism is supposed to do – how University of Cincinnati police operate added an important uncover the problems that affect the community. The victims in this case were taxpayers and children in the education system. It’s not often a media outlet will reach out to competitors for a story, but woman whose life unfolds on both a personal and bureaucratic that happened here, to the benefit of all. level. Fine writing and first-rate multimedia elements work together Second Place with good sources and, of course, a splendid subject, to make this a Ohio’s e-school controversy riveting, documentary-style project. Simply excellent! Patrick O’Donnell Second Place The Plain Dealer The long way home I wish I could have given a tie for first place for the Cleveland John Faherty, Carrie Cochran Plain Dealer and the Akron Beacon Journal for their efforts to The Cincinnati Enquirer investigate the mess that is the charter school “system” in Ohio. This is an impressive piece on a difficult subject, death. The report- Great work is demonstrated here. er and photographer give us an unusually close look at a man who Third Place wrestles with issues all too familiar to terminal cancer patients, Transgender in Cincinnati not the least of which is treatment vs. quality of life. This pulls no Anne Saker, Meg Vogel, Amanda Rossmann punches yet avoids the pitfalls of emotionalism and overwrought The Cincinnati Enquirer prose. To the contrary, this story – through words and images – is The Enquirer’s well-written and comprehensive series on being at once stark, artfully told and compelling. This took time, effort transgender was ahead of the curve. Excellent writing and re- and commitment, and the result is an example of journalism at its search. best. Features: Personality Profile Third Place First Place 2,670 Brutal Days Freedom: First day of the rest of my life Jon Wysochanski James McCarty The Chronicle-Telegram The Plain Dealer This is a wonderful story, rich in detail, multi-sourced and compel- This is an excellent portrait of a man unfairly jailed. Given his ling in no small part because of the surprisingly stoic remembranc- professed turn from hatred to compassion, this is a story at once es of a man who endured captivity and torture in the service of his inspirational and enlightening. Nicely written, with restraint from nation. Nicely done! hyperbole and emotion. The facts and, of course, the words of this Public Service wrongly imprisoned, rightly released gentleman tell a story that First Place needs no embellishment. It was up to the reporter to let the story When There’s Not Enough unfold, and he did so masterfully, with restraint, tight prose and at- Sharon Coolidge, Liz Dufour tention to detail. Well done! The Cincinnati Enquirer Second Place Clearly this project moved the community to action. The reporting Life for Justine Siegal, first woman to throw batting practice to and photography brought the reader into the classrooms and homes Major Leaguers, ‘is about getting back up’ o f these students. Marc Bona Second Place Cleveland.com What Works: How midsized cities succeed This is a very fine portrait of a barrier-breaking woman whose Keith Burris professional baseball goals have led to a message of inspiration to The Blade (Toledo) women everywhere. This is written tightly and brightly, with not an What a refreshing concept: A columnist that gets out from behind ounce of preachy prose. The reporter lets the subject’s accomplish- the desk and looks for solutions to problems. ments and words speak for themselves, and to great effect. Ending Third Place the article with a series of the subject’s inspirational quotes was a Who will lead? brilliant touch. What’s not to like here? Great story, wonderfully Staff told. Akron Beacon Journal Third Place A look at problems facing the community in the near future. A great A warrior’s love example of activist journalism showcasing the paper’s ability to Melissa Linebrink lead. The Chronicle-Telegram Investigative This is a no-frills, no-tears, straight-ahead look at a new mother First Place and newly diagnosed cancer patient whose positive, yet realistic Glenara’s death attitude is pervasive in this portrait. The reporter recognizes the Staff strength in her subject and lets the story unfold without a maudlin The Cincinnati Enquirer tone or overwrought prose. Well done! What happened to Glenara Bates is inexcusable. The Enquirer Features: General reporters dug deep and brought out the truth about the failures First Place of Hamilton County C&YS so that this girl’s death would not be Finding Her Way in vain. Excellent example of watchdog journalism revealing the Dan Horn, Cara Owsley problems with a government agency that failed to do its job and The Cincinnati Enquirer bringing effective change. A superb example of why journalism still matters, this excellent Second Place project peers into one of the lesser known aspects of foster care – Ohio ignores online school F’s as it evaluates charter school over- older kids who “time out” of the program – and presents a compel- seers ling, informative portrait of the trials and travails of a single young Patrick O’Donnell The Plain Dealer Best Section Original reporting caught Ohio Department of Education break- First Place ing state law and giving bad grades for e-schools a pass. The Arts state’s school choice officer resigned but the reporting by the Plain Staff Dealer’s Patrick O’Donnell made a convincing argument that the The Plain Dealer superintendent should have been bounced, too. Large photo/graphic illustration of the lead story is original and Third Place eye-catching. Section explores interesting views of stories, such as ED clinic Don Draper and the end of “Mad Men,” that other newspapers Amber Hunt would miss. This is an attractive and interesting section to read. The Cincinnati Enquirer Second Place Enquirer reporter Amber Hunt showed dogged determination in Taste Section pursuing a tip to newspaper’s consumer complaint line, taking it Staff from one complaint about an erectile dysfunction clinic to finding The Plain Dealer many people subjected to questionable if not unethical medical This section’s graphics are extremely creative and fun. The stories practices. She zeroed in on doctors whose expertise was not quali- are well-written and benefit from this strong layout and presentation. fied for the medical jobs being performed, backgrounding the crimi- Third Place nal past of the clinic owner/operator, and through her work forced Best Sports Section the Ohio State Medical Board to take action on their licenses. Albert Grindle, Betty Szudlo Business Medina County Gazette First Place Clean layout makes this special section easy to read, Solid Why Heinen’s first downtown Cleveland store is more than just a previews of the teams make this the type of special section that supermarket readers will keep and refer to. Janet Cho Digital Media The Plain Dealer Newspaper Website This is a very comprehensive and well-written package about how a First Place local family-owned business is investing in downtown development Daytonbusinessjournal.com by providing a grocery store. Covers a lot of bases and answers DBJ Staff questions shoppers would have about the store. Dayton Business Journal Second Place Clean, easy to navigate, well put-together. Bendix leaves Elyria Second Place Lisa Roberson Cincinnati.com The Chronicle-Telegram Staff A well-balanced report on how a major employer moving will affect The Cincinnati Enquirer the community at large. A close second. Third Place Third Place Struggles and Victories of Ohio’s Middle Class Workers Chronicleonline Olivera Perkins Staff The Plain Dealer The Chronicle-Telegram These stories are very thorough and comprehensive and put a hu- man face on labor statistics. Breaking News Single Story First Place Sports Gorilla Glue moving its headquarters First Place Tom Demeropolis The Pete Rose investigation revisited Cincinnati Business Courier James Pilcher The Cincinnati Enquirer Breaking News Series Exhaustively researched, well-organized piece that combines com- First Place pelling storytelling and pertinent documents from years ago with Ohio State Buckeyes win National Championship fresh reporting. Well done. Matt Florjancic WKYC Second Place Pete Rose: The boy from Braddock Street Use of Social Media Paul Daugherty First Place The Cincinnati Enquirer WKSU Social Media Vivid descriptions and terrific storytelling make the reader feel as Staff though he/she is there with Rose. WKSU Third Place Second Place Which 10 Cleveland sports figures deserve a statue? Blade Internet mayoral debates Tim Warsinskey Staff The Plain Dealer The Blade (Toledo) A debate starter among sports fans. Enterprising idea that demands Online Storytelling reader interaction. First Place Last of Little Syria documentary Hasan Dudar, Katie Rausch Heartbreaking interview without being overly sensational. The The Blade (Toledo) inclusion of the slideshow of photographs was especially effective. Compelling and beautifully told. A standout in a strong field. Second Place Second Place Rock and Roll Hall of Fame turns 20 Baseballs Battle of Ohio Staff, WKYC.com Michael Nyerges WKYC The Cincinnati Enquirer Very cool look at the Hall. Fun and engaging. A great piece. Third Place Third Place Akron’s Sina King is Queen of the Comeback Domestic Violence: A Crime Without Boundaries Matt Florjancic WKYC Staff,WKYC.com Staff WKYC WKYC Well-written profile. Incredibly thorough work on an important topic. Blogs Magazine Website First Place First Place Business of Sports CincinnatiMagazine.com Kevin Kleps Amy Brownlee Crain’s Cleveland Business Cincinnati Magazine Good writing, clear connection with readers and knowledge of topic. Great variety of fresh, interesting content and engaging art. Infographics Second Place First Place ColumbusCEO.com What do you remember about Ki-Jana Carter? Staff Michael Nyerges Columbus C.E.O. Magazine The Cincinnati Enquirer Television News Website Daily Newspaper Photography First Place Spot News - Daily Newspaper Cleveland19.com First Place Staff Massive Fire WOIO-TV Bruce Bishop Clean design, easy to navigate. The Chronicle-Telegram Second Place Second Place WKYC.com Deadly Crash Staff Ed Suba Jr. WKYC Akron Beacon Journal Online General News story Third Place First Place Officers remove police K-9 shot and killed in a Toledo standoff Lakewood Hospital to close for family health center, sparks com- Jeremy Wadsworth munity controversy The Blade (Toledo) Bruce Geiselman General News - Daily Newspaper Cleveland.com First Place Comprehensive, easy-to-understand coverage of an issue of huge Hanging on importance to readers. This is what media is meant to do - nothing Bruce Bishop sensational, just solid coverage of what readers need to know. Well The Chronicle-Telegram done. This photo lends visual clarity to a microcosm of American life that Second Place is familiar to far too many. Beachwood City Council denies receiving free pool passes, records Second Place destroyed Nothing But Love Bob Sandrick Kristin Bauer Cleveland.com The Chronicle-Telegram Good reporting on what at first seems a petty issue, but reveals a The gentleness and care of this mother comes through with the dove deeper problem with record-keeping and honesty of public officials. release. Beautiful! Dogged research and reporting brought the truth to light here. Third Place Third Place Still Standing Akron Plane Crash Bruce Bishop Cleveland19.com staff The Chronicle-Telegram WOIO-TV Amazing! Great contrast between the symbol of faith and back- Online Feature story ground of devastation. First Place Sports - Daily Newspaper Samaria Rice’s Struggle First Place Cleveland19.com staff Head Over Heels WOIO-TV Kristin Bauer Third Place The Chronicle-Telegram Kyle Goes Home Spectacular shot! Hope the player was okay. Kristin Bauer Second Place The Chronicle-Telegram Up in the air General Circulation Magazines Ed Suba Jr. News Akron Beacon Journal First Place What an incredible shot! Like a instant replay frozen in time. Shots Fired Third Place Erick Trickey Moment of impact Cleveland Magazine Kareem Elgazzar Second Place The Cincinnati Enquirer For Tamir Can’t believe you actually caught the sweat in mid-air! James Bigley II General Feature - Daily Newspaper Cleveland Magazine First Place Third Place Dancin the jig Survivor Story Mike Cardew Michael C. Butz Akron Beacon Journal Cleveland Jewish News Precious. Good composition. Features: Personality Profile Second Place Kyle Goes Home First Place Kristin Bauer Coaching Success The Chronicle-Telegram Ed Wittenberg Create use of natural light and contrast. Cleveland Jewish News Third Place Second Place ‘Dirty Knees’ Day and Night Carrie Cochran Jonah L. Rosenblum The Cincinnati Enquirer Cleveland Jewish News Emotionally moving. Overall impact leaves one to ponder on the Third Place different responses to death. Rise Up Studio Photography - Daily Newspaper Joel Oliphint First Place Columbus Monthly Adam Jones Features: General Sam Greene First Place The Cincinnati Enquirer The Final Round Portrait / Personality Photography - Daily Leo DeLuca Newspaper Ohio Magazine First Place Second Place Warrior Mom My Name is Julie Kristin Bauer James Bigley II The Chronicle-Telegram Cleveland Magazine A powerful photograph of a beautiful mother and her infant son. Third Place Second Place Between Two Worlds Zay RJ Smith Meg Vogel Cincinnati Magazine The Cincinnati Enquirer Features: Consumer Photo Journalism - Daily Newspaper First Place First Place How Cincy Works Arthur Staff Liz Dufour Cincinnati Magazine The Cincinnati Enquirer Takes what could be a dull directory and with great graphics cre- A visually stunning look at a year in the life a little boy who, de- ates a creative guide to the city spite being underprivileged, is photographed in such a way that the viewer can still see a bright spark in his eyes. The juxtaposition of Second Place environment versus emotion is captured perfectly. Aged to Perfection Staff Second Place Cincinnati Magazine Behind the lens: Columbus Castings photo shoot more about the Even if you don’t like bourbon, this guide is lush and inviting. Made people me want to go everyplace and sample everything Jeffry Konczal Business First Third Place Features: Personality Profile Take the Fall First Place Staff A Rust Belt Education Cincinnati Magazine Rick Perloff Hard to go wrong with gorgeous photos and enticing descriptions Belt Magazine of great fall trips. Second Place Features: Art Remembering Camu Tao First Place Andy Downing Rock Star Columbus Alive Leo DeLuca Third Place Ohio Magazine SNL star Bayer draws on local upbringing for comedic inspiration Second Place Kristen Mott Different Drumm Cleveland Jewish News Jim Vickers Features: General Ohio Magazine First Place Third Place From comp lit to the adjuncts’ champion: The academic odyssey of A Cut Above Maria Maisto Jill Sell Rick Perloff Ohio Magazine Belt Magazine Public Service/Investigative Second Place First Place At last: After nearly three decades, their day has finally come This is How We Lose Them Jonah L. Rosenblum Linda Vaccariello Cleveland Jewish News Cincinnati Magazine Third Place In an age of candidates espousing quick fixes, the writer explores Internet Famous just why there is no simple solution for this life and death situation Brad Keefe affecting the most helpless and their families. Columbus Alive Second Place Public Service Survivor Story First Place Michael C. Butz Saving Lake Erie Cleveland Jewish News The Press Staff An important look at a hidden topic. Both the writer and subject The Press deserve applause for putting this in the spotlight. Second Place Third Place Ohio State cleaning up the neighborhood Renaissance Fair Tom Knox Richey Piiparinen Business First Cleveland Magazine Third Place Departments or Columns Weed The People: The Money, Influence & Turmoil Behind Issue 3 First Place Jill Moorhead Lake Effect Columbus Alive Staff Cleveland Magazine Sports A terrific resource for Cleveland culture, with strong writing, art First Place and layout. Clearly a well-oiled machine that produces this. Better luck this year: Blue Jackets poised to make some noise as expectations rise Second Place Brad Keefe The Dish Columbus Alive Kim Schneider Cleveland Magazine Arts & Entertainment A local food section to compete with the best in U.S. newspapers First Place and magazines. Worthy of the scene it covers. Scene and Heard: Local musicians creating space for women, trans- gender and non-binary artists Third Place Andy Downing Family Finance Columbus Alive Denise Trowbridge Columbus Parent Second Place Violins of Hope at the Maltz Performing Arts Center Non-Daily Newspapers Carlo Wolff Breaking News Cleveland Jewish News First Place Rabbi Karp charged with sex crimes in Maryland Third Place Ed Wittenberg Black Lives Matter: Columbus artists and musicians keeping debate Cleveland Jewish News alive Andy Downing Columbus Alive Second Place Community / Local Coverage Seeing Insides From Out First Place Jon Wysochanski Unlikely Columbus not so far-fetched anymore for political con- The Chronicle-Telegram ventions Interesting look at an advance in medical technology Tom Knox Third Place Business First A holistic approach BEST Section John Walsh First Place John Carroll University Health: Senior Living Section A comprehensive and complete report on a growing subset of medi- Staff cal education and practice, and what distinguishes it Cleveland Jewish News Politics / Government Writing Non Daily Newspaper Photography First Place General News Ohio ignores online school F’s as it evaluates charter school over- First Place seers Toxic Brewery Patrick O’Donnell Sarah Bennett The Plain Dealer Dayton Business Journal This is why investigative journalism exists. Great job breaking down a complex issue. This was a comprehensive investigation with General Feature measurable change. Bravo. First Place Millennials in the workplace Second Place Sarah Bennett Colorful drive illustrates issue Dayton Business Journal Paula Schleis This mirthful photo of Millennials was a clear winner. Akron Beacon Journal Lively writing. Great job explaining the actual effects of gerryman- Second Place dering. Tractor Show Ken Grosjean Third Place The Press Flores not only one with record Excellent composition. Brad Dicken The Chronicle-Telegram Third Place Thorough, fair reporting that calls out the local Democratic Party Last of the leaves in its hypocrisy. Ken Grosjean The Press General News Column Great shot. First Place Dear Mrs. DuBose, I visited your son today Open Chris Graves Technology Writing The Cincinnati Enquirer First Place This was well written, very thoughtful, and gut wrenching piece. It 5 things Columbus startup scene needs now made me cry. It was a brilliant idea on the right day. Carrie Ghose Business First Second Place Nice job packing lots of information into readable chunks, breaking Uncommon ground up what could have been a long narrative into a better format. Jeff Gerritt The Blade (Toledo) Second Place Love her straightforward and simple writing. Very easy to read and Columbus CEO Data Hotspot: City’s Critical New Sector fun with good take-a-ways. Kitty McConnell Columbus C.E.O. Magazine Third Place A comprehensive look at an important, but little-known topic. Another Toledo water crisis? It’s possible, if we lose focus on Lake Erie Third Place David Kushma Acquisitions aren’t always a hit for local companies The Blade (Toledo) Chuck Soder Very nicely researched piece of journalism. Crain’s Cleveland Business Sports Column Medical / Health Writing First Place First Place Lauren Hill played ‘to the final buzzer’ How Baltimore cut its infant mortality rate: Saving the Smallest Paul Daugherty Brie Zeltner The Cincinnati Enquirer The Plain Dealer This is a solid column that taps into the emotion and captures a An eye-opening report on how a comparable community attacked a sense of Lauren Hill and how people felt about her without go- life-and-death issue that could hold promise for Cleveland ing over the top. The reader comes away feeling like they know Lauren Hill and what she stood for. In several places, Daugherty says much with few words. Best example: “I interviewed her twice. Headline Writing Newspapers (Daily & Non I didn’t pity her once.” This column was much like the service it Daily) describes. Not too long, and done with a touch of grace. First Place Second Place “Stung driver makes beeline for treatment” Lion’s killing is a lot of things, but it’s not hunting Benjamin Nagy Matt Markey The Chronicle-Telegram The Blade (Toledo) Second Place As good as Paul Daugherty’s piece on Lauren Hill is, Matt Markey “Oh, Christmas tree, how lovely are your panfish/ Sunken trees cre- runs him a close second with this take on the killing of Cecil the ate habitat for fish, hot spots for anglers lion. It’s a thoughtful piece in two parts. First, Markey illustrates Mark Spang what ethical hunting is with examples of friends who live by a fair The Plain Dealer chase code and use what they kill. Then he dismisses the lynch mob Third Place reaction to the dentist who shot Cecil with some good ways to make Veni, vidi ... Vinci? restitution - a year’s worth of dental work in a region that has little Kevin Aprile or none. Strong opinion made stronger by the absence of boiler- The Chronicle-Telegram plate outrage. Headline Writing All Other Publications Third Place First Place Jack Nicklaus: The mountaintop and the means of ascent Pay Daze Bill Livingston Michael von Glahn The Plain Dealer The College Store Magazine Livingston does a nice job of weaving Nicklaus history into a story of his help for Lorain County CC. I love the image of the Bear hit- Second Place ting balls in the rain, and the telling of his respect for hard work Isle of White and people fighting uphill. Good reading for anyone, but espe- Matthew Hall cially for someone old enough to remember the days of golf’s “Big Boutique Design Three.” Reviews/Criticism Business Column First Place First Place Concert review: Buckeye Country Superfest at Ohio Stadium From the Publisher – Long live the king Andy Downing Dustin S. Klein Columbus Alive Smart Business Cleveland Second Place Second Place Winehouse documentary no cure for the blues On the Ball – The Trust Gap Carlo Wolff Andre Thornton Cleveland Jewish News Smart Business Cleveland Third Place Lifestyle Movie review: Star Wars: Episode VII: The feelings awaken First Place Brad Keefe Recipes a link to home Columbus Alive Mary Beth Breckenridge Single Essay Akron Beacon Journal First Place This story shines in its food descriptions – exactly where it’s impor- University of Akron demise is hard to watch tant. You convey a picture of this community and its history through Bob Dyer not just naming the dishes and describing them, but your memories Akron Beacon Journal of meals there (paneled basement, wedding cookie tables, etc). Second Place Great work. I really feel like I got a taste of the place (excuse the Emmett Till’s killing holds timely lessons pun) Richard Perloff Second Place The Plain Dealer Toledo is the new Peoria Third Place Kirk Baird Who’s really white in America, anymore? The Blade (Toledo) Jeff Gerritt I love how this article used a story about a national fast food fran- The Blade (Toledo) chise to make a point about Toledo – that it’s a city that’s excellent at being average. Really fun writing around the topic too. Obituary First Place Third Place Jews remember Stokes Memory of dad defines mom Jonah L. Rosenblum Rini Jeffers Cleveland Jewish News The Chronicle-Telegram Really moving piece, and I love how it sheds light on the difficulties Second Place of seeing parents through at the end of their lives when you live in a Julius Julie Abrams, Nov. 29, 1913 to April 18, 2015 Longtime different place. minyan attendee, helped Holocaust survivors Carlo Wolff Cleveland Jewish News Deborah Snook Third Place The Plain Dealer MORTON NOVEMBER: SEPT. 2, 1926 - JULY 12, 2015 Gifts Radio touched thousands around town in memory of his daughter News Kristen Mott First Place Cleveland Jewish News Coverage of the Michael Brelo Verdict Single Editorial WKSU Staff First Place WKSU His strength is his weakness I thought the coverage of the judge’s decision was thorough, but I Michael Douglas would have liked to hear from the prosecutors and more from the Akron Beacon Journal victims’ family members - more than the 30 seconds allotted to the What an example of an effective editorial. driver’s sister at the end. The writing on the website was very good and explained a bit more than the radio story did. Second Place Mr. Kasich’s leadership Second Place David Kushma Hosting the Gay Games meant more than a one-time economic The Blade (Toledo) boost Nice job. Environmental issues can be tough to tackle, but this Kevin Niedermier editorial does so succinctly. WKSU This was very informative and filled with back-up facts and figures. Third Place As a news story, however, it needed more balance. I believe it would Rose lied, lost again fit better as a business or feature story. And I would have liked to Jeremy Fugleberg hear from someone who opposed the Gay Games coming to Cleve- The Cincinnati Enquirer land - making it more of a news story. Some tough love for a local legend. Skillfully written. On-going Coverage Analysis First Place First Place Wrapping Up 2016 Mayor Plusquellic’s claims are absurd Andy Chow, Jo Ingles, Karen Kasler Bob Dyer Ohio Public Radio Akron Beacon Journal What a great ongoing service for the public, media, etc. Quality Food Writing coverage - fair, balanced. Very informative and detailed. First Place Second Place The 7 Day Taco Diet Tamir Rice Beth Stallings News Team Columbus Crave 90.3 WCPN ideastream Who knew tacos could be so interesting? I loved the writer’s Good ongoing coverage. Very fair and balanced coverage of a dif- tongue-in-cheek style and vivid descriptions...with a little humor ficult subject. sprinkled on top. It made me want to get some tacos A.S.A.P.! Third Place Second Place Mayor Don Plusquellic Resigns With the Grain Staff Beth Stallings WKSU Columbus Crave Fair coverage of a difficult situation with detailed analysis. Well Excellent sentence structure and descriptions. Captivating writing written with good actualities. style and beautiful illustrations. Public Service Third Place First Place Farm Fresh Namaste: A past in Bhutan, a future in Akron Staff M.L. Schultze, Amanda Rabinowitz Ohio Magazine WKSU A very interesting article and superb research. Excellent job! Documentary Travel Writing First Place First Place Our Land: A Conversation About Community Policing Adventure Season Tony Ganzer Staff 90.3 WCPN ideastream Ohio Magazine In-Depth Coverage Second Place First Place THAT TOWN UP NORTH Ann Arbor is a friendly place to roam Remembering Vietnam: Commemorating the 40th anniversary of behind enemy lines the fall of Saigon Susan Glaser Staff The Plain Dealer WKSU Third Place An outstanding historical look at a significant time in our nation’s Great lobster catch in Portland, Maine history. Interesting facts about the Vietnamese in Ohio and histori- cal coverage of the Vietnam war in Ohio. Well done. Second Place Hilary Golston Election Day 2015 WKYC Karen Kasler, Jo Ingles, Andy Chow Public Service Ohio Public Radio First Place Great facts and figures with substantiating soundbites/actualities United Against Domestic Violence from all sides. Helpful to the media. Staff Third Place WKYC Adoptees Make Emotional Choices To See Long-Hidden Adoption Unique academic partnership. Solid multi-media presentation with Records user-friendly elements of public service. Karen Kasler Second Place Ohio Public Radio Hidden Homeless Left Out in the Cold in Northeast Ohio A very interesting topic with great stories. Hilary Golston Human Interest WKYC First Place Good introduction to tough topic. Brick City Tells Tales of the Forgotten Neighborhood Third Place David C. Barnett See The Possible: Jobs 90.3 WCPN ideastream Staff Second Place WKYC Cleveland students bridge the income, opportunity gaps with Lo- Admirable public service. rain inmates Human Interest Kabir Bhatia First Place WKSU The Volley of Fire Third Place Ali Ghanbari Historic housing complex in Youngstown gets a new purpose for WJW Fox 8 vets An excellent story which takes the time and dedication needed to Tim Rudell honor our fallen heroes. Good use of soundbites to carry the story. WKSU Good use of natural sound and music to add to the message. A Use of Sound touching tribute to our nation’s Veterans and their families. First Place Second Place Why a chef cares that a pig gets to roam Cancer Triathlete Vivian Goodman Derek Steyer WKSU WFMJ News Writing Good pacing, very good use of voice, excellent use of letting sound- First Place bites tell the story. Ohio’s racinos are holding their own, but the future is a gamble Third Place Amanda Rabinowitz Triumph Uplifts Cleveland Community WKSU Hilary Golston Radio Show WKYC First Place A good look at positive news for Black History Month. The story is Sound of Ideas: Syrian Refugees well told and well paced. A refreshing look at the community. Amy Cummings, Mike McIntyre Sports Report or Commentary 90.3 WCPN ideastream First Place Television The Overtime Report News TV 21 Sports Team First Place WFMJ Robot Classmate Feature Photography Derek Steyer, Paul Kiselica First Place WFMJ Sunday night delivery Second Place Ali Ghanbari Lemonade Stand WJW Fox 8 Derek Steyer The way the segment was filmed put the viewer in the story as WFMJ volunteers went out to help the less fortunate. Camera angles and shots were chosen with a purpose and served as a way to convey Third Place the thoughtfulness and hard work of its subjects. Religious Convictions vs Civil Rights Robert Busby, John London Second Place WLWT-TV Saving Your Skin Chris Reece On-Going Coverage WJW Fox 8 First Place Prosecutor ‘Called Out’ by Family, Community in Tamir Rice Case Third Place Mocha & I Ali Ghanbari Tire Business Newspaper WJW Fox 8 Second Place Television Show Pep Boys saga First Place Bruce Davis Where We Stand Tire Business Newspaper Courtis Fuller, Robert Busby, Allison Smith Third Place WLWT-TV Special Section: Automotive parts Second Place Chris Sweeney Ideas: Violins of Hope Rubber & Plastics News Amy Cummings, Rick Jackson, Lance Shultz Features: Trends WVIZ/PBS ideastream First Place Third Place Bone dry and beautiful OSU National Championship Michelle Simakis Sheila Miller GIE Media WFMJ Second Place Trade Publications Planning for the Unthinkable. Run. Hide. Fight. Trade Report Michael von Glahn First Place CS Extra Continental takes ownership of Veyance Third Place Bruce Meyer, Mike McNulty, Don Detore Understanding Today’s Rare Coin Market Rubber & Plastics News Steve Roach Second Place Coin World Impact of antidumping duties Departments or Columns Miles Moore First Place Rubber & Plastics News Editor’s Viewpoint Third Place Bruce Meyer State of associations Rubber & Plastics News William Schertz, Jennifer Karpus-Romain Second Place Tire Business Newspaper Editorials Features: Personality Profile Staff First Place Tire Business Newspaper ‘What we do matters’ Third Place Michelle Simakis The College Store Editorial GIE Media Michael von Glahn Second Place The College Store Magazine ‘Tire questions? Ya gotta talk to da boss’ Visuals Kathy McCarron Single cartoon Tire Business Newspaper First Place Third Place Drink Lake Erie Lite/ More Algae – Less Toxic A man of vision Kirk Walters John Walsh The Blade (Toledo) John Carroll University Second Place Features: General FirstEnergy wants to share the risk First Place Richard Williams Goodyear fined $14.1 million in bribery case Crain’s Cleveland Business Miles Moore Third Place Rubber & Plastics News Kasich refugees Second Place Brian Shellito Chief Content Officer Magazine Akron Beacon Journal Staff Illustration Single image Content Marketing Institute First Place Third Place Hoopla in Dayton Where ‘customer’ is a dirty word John Hancock William Schertz Dayton Business Journal Tire Business Newspaper Second Place Features: Special Section/Package Frogtown regatta First Place Jeff Basting Generations in the Workplace The Blade (Toledo) Jennifer Karpus-Romain Third Place Second Place Season of the Arts Korean, Demystified Tom Fisher Betsy Becker The Blade (Toledo) Columbus Monthly Multiple Illustrations for One Story- All Pub- A great explanation of Korean cuisine that’s also colorful and easy lications to follow. First Place Third Place 50 Things Every Clevelander Must Do Loco for Tacos Shaw Nielsen, Kristen Miller Sam Twarek Cleveland Magazine Cleveland Magazine Infographics Appetizing and easy to follow. First Place A-1 News Front- Daily and Non-Daily Collegiate Market Watch Newspapers Monica Doud First Place The College Store Magazine Jennifer Lyon Eye-catching and extremely informative. Medina County Gazette Second Place Gorgeous covers. Lusitania sinking Second Place William Neff Kevin Cox The Plain Dealer Cincinnati Business Courier Appeals to the history geek in me. Third Place Third Place Jon Larson 2015 Central Ohio Leadership Census Cleveland Jewish News Jim Mericsko Spread or Multiple Page- Broadsheets Smart Business Columbus First Place Timely and interesting. Who Will Lead? Single page design- Broadsheet Mark Turner, Kimberly Barth First Place Akron Beacon Journal Venomous snakes of Ohio The clear winner. Excellent writing and an objective view of an is- Jeff Basting sue facing many cities in the country. Well done. The Blade (Toledo) Second Place The snakes almost jump off the page (creepy, but cool)! Bright, Historic homes spread colorful and well-designed. Valerie Morris Second Place The Chronicle-Telegram Best Page Design Third Place Jennifer Lyon Ohio State National Championship Medina County Gazette Staff Good photography and a nice design. The Plain Dealer Third Place Spread or Multiple Page- Tabs High School Football Preview First Place Brian Shellito, Phil Masturzo Building a better board Akron Beacon Journal Rebecca R. Markovitz Bright photography and a nice layout. Crain’s Cleveland Business Single page design- Tab An interesting piece on an oft-overlooked issue. First Place Second Place You’ll be AMAZED A New Growth Industry Edna Jakubowski Kevin Cox Akron Beacon Journal Cincinnati Business Courier I love that the graphics mimic the maze. Bright photography com- The better of the two marijuana legalization stories in this catego- pliments the design.A clear winner. ry. Helpful infographics. Second Place Third Place Book of Lists Let’s play SimCity Rebecca R. Markovitz Kevin Cox Crain’s Cleveland Business Cincinnati Business Courier Single page design- Magazine Spread or Multiple Page- Magazines First Place First Place Gifts for the Sugar Fiend COSI – World of Wonder Alyse Kordenbrock Jim Mericsko Columbus Alive Smart Business Cleveland Colorful, eye-catching and engaging. Gorgeous design. Spectacular photo anchors an eye-catching design. Best Use of Multimedia Second Place First Place 50 Things Every Clevelander Must Do LeBron Inc.: Sports Superstar. Philanthropist. Businessman. Kristen Miller Staff Cleveland Magazine Smart Business Cleveland Inviting layout draws the reader’s eye. Photography - ALL OTHERS Third Place General Photo - All Others Columbus CEO Data Hotspot: City’s Critical New Sector First Place Yogesh Chaudhary Dayton VA Columbus C.E.O. Magazine Sarah Bennett Dayton Business Journal Covers: General Circulation Magazines- Sun- Innovative use of light, angle and space to present and highlight the day Magazines topic. First Place Food Adventures Second Place Lesley Blake Mike Martin Realty Ohio Magazine Sarah Bennett Fantastic cover - looks good enough to eat! Great texture and light- Dayton Business Journal ing. Makes me want to pick up the magazine. Strong illustration of the news at hand. Second Place Third Place Coolumbus Bundt Talk Alyse Kordenbrock Burklehagen Photography Columbus Alive Cleveland Magazine Evocative of summer - great photo. While readers may not understand, this is a challenging environ- ment in which to take a photo. Use of hot lights and melting food Third Place needed specific timing. Well done! Canvas Spring/Summer 2015 Jon Larson General Photo - All Others Cleveland Jewish News First Place Collection of images Covers: Business Publications Jeffry Konczal First Place Business First Hoopla in Dayton John Hancock Second Place Dayton Business Journal Collection of images Very engaging design that draws the reader’s eye. Dan Trittschuh Business First Second Place The Right Mix Portrait / Personality Photography - All Oth- Rebecca R. Markovitz ers Crain’s Cleveland Business First Place Great use of color. Bob Juniper Dan Trittschuh Third Place Business First Priority 1: Jobs John Hancock Second Place Dayton Business Journal Willie Phoenix Tessa Berg Covers: Trade & Professional Publications Columbus Monthly First Place State of the Tomato Report - Produce Grower Magazine, February Third Place 2015 Toxic Brewery Jamie Winebrenner Sarah Bennett GIE Media Dayton Business Journal Colorful, engaging, and eye-catching. This makes me want to pick Studio Photography - All Others up the magazine. First Place Second Place 40 under 40 State of the Edibles 2015 James E. Mahan Stephanie Antal Dayton Business Journal GIE Media Photo Journalism - All Others Third Place First Place HB Magazine Winter/Spring 2015 Behind the lens: Columbus Castings photo shoot more about the Vanessa Butler, James Douglas Studio people Hathaway Brown Jeffry Konc Business First Second Place Best in Ohio: Photographer Columbus CEO Local Craft Beer Business Bubbling Over First Place Tim Johnson Sam Greene Columbus C.E.O. Magazine The Cincinnati Enquirer Third Place Compelling. That is the word that describes the lead photo in this With the Grain series. Sam Green’s work is excellent. Well done sir! Will Shilling Second Place Columbus Monthly Meg Vogel Pictorial - All Others The Cincinnati Enquirer First Place It makes judging easier when pictures and stories are presented Steaming Ahead together. Viewing in context is important. Meg Vogel’s work gave an Steven Manheim important visual to the printed text. Confession: I like cats and had The Chronicle-Telegram a positive emotional response (PUR) to the first photo in the series. Second Place Third Place Columbus CEO L Brands interiorscape Lynn Ischay Tim Johnson The Plain Dealer Columbus C.E.O. Magazine Must say that judging was not easy at the top tier level. The word here is creative. And Lynn did an excellent job of bringing to life Best Business Publication in Ohio the associated stories! First Place Best in Ohio: Freelance Writer Columbus CEO Staff First Place Joel Oliphint Second Place Joel has a captivating writing style where the reader feels as if she Dayton Business Journal is actually there. Magnificent use of quotes and colorful descrip- Staff tions. Well done! Third Place Second Place Smart Business Columbus Jill Sell Staff Smart Business Cleveland Jill has a beautiful writing style and her research is superb. I en- joyed reading about her various topics and enjoyed her historical Best Website in Ohio backgrounds. First Place Third Place Daytonbusinessjournal.com Vince Guerrieri Staff Vince is a terrific writer with a knack for capturing the essence of Dayton Business Journal his subjects. Great job! Second Place Best in Ohio: Staff Reporter bizjournals.com/cincinnati Staff First Place Cincinnati Business Courier Dan Horn The Cincinnati Enquirer Third Place Nadia’s story (“Finding Her Way”) reads like great literature. Cleveland19.com Emotionally gripping, bringing tears and smiles. The other stories Staff are good examples of watchdog journalism. WOIO-TV Second Place Best Magazine in Ohio Alexander Coolidge First Place The Cincinnati Enquirer Cincinnati Magazine Strong investigative reporting. Coolidge explains complex subjects Staff well. This magazine just looks great and mix of articles has something Third Place for everyone. Paula Schleis Second Place Akron Beacon Journal Canvas Thoughtful, comprehensive biography. Schleis provided a good Staff measure of Plusquellic’s career. She put his resignation in context. Cleveland Jewish News Best In Ohio: Column Nice photography and pieces about up and coming artists and First Place neighborhoods. Regina Brett Third Place Cleveland Jewish News Cleveland Magazine Second Place Staff From the CEO Tackles some tough stories as well as the nostalgic ones. Fred Koury Smart Business Cleveland Second Place Third Place Rubber & Plastics News Bob Dyer Staff Akron Beacon Journal Third Place Best in Ohio: Page Design HB Magazine Staff First Place Hathaway Brown Lesley Blake Ohio Magazine Best in Ohio: Cartooning Second Place First Place Alyse Kordenbrock Jeff Darcy Columbus Alive Cleveland.com Third Place Second Place Rebecca R. Markovitz Brian Shellito Crain’s Cleveland Business Akron Beacon Journal Best In Ohio: Headline Writing Third Place Kirk Walters First Place The Blade (Toledo) Benjamin Nagy The Chronicle-Telegram Best in Ohio: Illustration All Publications Second Place First Place Susan Gapinski Price Ted Crow Akron Beacon Journal The Plain Dealer Third Place Second Place Vince Guerrieri Rebecca R. Markovitz The Chronicle-Telegram Crain’s Cleveland Business Best In Ohio: Reviews/Criticism Third Place Andrea Levy First Place The Plain Dealer Steven Litt The Plain Dealer Best in Ohio: Infographics Second Place First Place Laura Adiletta Yogesh Chaudhary Cleveland Magazine Columbus C.E.O. Magazine Interesting and informative while still being eye-catching. Third Place Brad Keefe Second Place Columbus Alive Michael Nyerges The Cincinnati Enquirer Best In Ohio: Essay Writing Best Radio Newscast in Ohio First Place Bob Dyer First Place Akron Beacon Journal WKSU ‘All Things Considered’ Newscast Staff WKSU Best In Ohio: Editorial Best Television Newscast in Ohio First Place Michael Douglas First Place Akron Beacon Journal Channel 3 News at 11 Thorough research and reporting, and very well written. Nicely Staff WKYC done. Absolutely fantastic team coverage of plane crash. Wow! You man- Second Place aged to cover all angles of the story and still fit in weather and Jeff Gerritt sports along with updates throughout the newscast. Very well done! The Blade (Toledo) Second Place Third Place Cleveland 19 News @ 11pm David Kushma Staff WOIO-TV The Blade (Toledo) Best Non-Daily Newspaper in Ohio: Best Trade Publication in Ohio: Community Newspaper First Place First Place Boutique Design Cleveland Jewish News Staff Staff Non-Daily Newspapers Best Non-Daily Newspaper in Ohio: Alternatives First Place Columbus Alive Staff Best Daily Newspaper in Ohio: 75-000 or less circulation First Place The Chronicle-Telegram Staff The Chronicle is the kind of newspaper that all communities–it pro- vides extensive local coverage while also including local and na- tional. Good writing and photography throughout, Layout is solid and includes huge headlines (like “EQUALITY) for very impor-tant stories, which is something few newspapers do these days. It is an out-\standing community resource. Second Place Medina Gazette Staff The Gazette shows what good journalism is as it covers its com- munity well. Plenty of names...which always means news as well as solid coverage of local news from the county government to sports to out-standing high school students. Layout is clean and makes the pages inviting and easy to read. Best Daily Newspaper in Ohio: more than 75-000 circulation First Place The Plain Dealer Staff The front page coverage of important local news, from details of th Tamir Rice shooting to the Brelo verdict to Cleveland children in danger from lead poisoning, the journalism is impressive and demonstrates a commitment to in-depth investigative journalism. Front page layout, especially photography. is impressive. Special sections are also impressive, Overall, the PD staff produces solid, interesting journalism that serves its public well. Second Place Akron Beacon Journal Staff The Beacon-Journal also provides important coverage of local news, Its special sections are of note and run the gamut from the Cavs’ season preview to a look at the candidates for mayor. The features writing is very strong and covers a number of interesting topics. Football coverage ishould satisy any fan. Third Place The Blade, Toledo Staff An overall strong newspaper, The Blade has a particularly good opinion page and columns featuring a variety of voices. Community coverage performs vital public service.