Oct. 9 is deadline for Hooper Newspaper Contest
Reflecting just a few changes, complete details for this year’s Osman Hooper Newspaper Contest have been sent to all ONA member weekly newspapers.
Among the modifications made by the Weekly Newspaper Committee during their July 17 meeting was a reduction to 12 topical classes by combining the previous Sports Special Sections class with what is now the class for Special Sections or Editions. In an effort to increase the chances for newspapers to compete for General Excellence honors, the committee also made some changes in the point system. The bonus category, which was instituted as a promotional tool a few years ago, has been eliminated.
The committee has also retained the method for judging newspapers by circulation. Dependent upon the number of newspapers entered, they will be divided equally into four or five circulation divisions. There is also a separate competition for Best Weekly Newspaper Web Site.
The deadline for entries is Oct. 9. Winners will be honored during a presentation at the ONA Convention, Thursday, Feb. 11, at the Hilton Columbus at Easton Town Center. First notification to the winners will be made in early January.
Named for one of the first university journalism professors in Ohio, who was also instrumental in the founding of ONA, the Osman Hooper Newspaper Contest is an activity of ONA’s Weekly Newspaper Committee. The committee members are Jeff Donahue, This Week Community Newspapers, Columbus, chairman; Diane Chiddester, Yellow Springs News; Mary Huber, Archbold Buckeye; David Keller, Morgan County Herald; Bill Lange, The People’s Defender, West Union; Jerry Mossbarger, The Telegram, Jackson; Doug Nutter, Paulding Progress; and Erica Peterson, Record Publishing Co., Stow.
Questions about the Hooper Contest should be directed to Sue Bazzoli, manager, administrative services, at ONA.
