"Journalism matters" has been our mantra for more than a year now and we were able to honor a roomful of journalists who are making their work matter.
But don't just take my word for it. (I'm biased as hell, after all.) Consider these kind words from Richard Perloff, a Cleveland State professor and the winner this year of Best in Ohio in the Essay category:
"I really was taken aback by the honor I received on Friday when everyone was asked to come onto the stage. But I write to tell you that I am very impressed by how much work and how much meticulous care went into the event -- you had to check the awards carefully, get the spelling of names right (get it right in journalism, correct!), link it all with the visuals on the screen, print a program, plan the event at the House of Blues and line up speakers who did a very commendable job. I have planned similar -- though not as exhaustive -- events as a long-time professor at Cleveland State, and I can appreciate what this entailed."
Thanks again to board member Lee Moran, who oversees this large task, Lynn Bracic and Debi Weslek.
Upcoming events
Tales of a Newsmaker:
A Night with George Forbes
We have many details still to fill in but please circle Sept. 26 on your calendars for a special event with one of Cleveland's most well-known figures, former Cleveland City Council President George Forbes.
Forbes was in the middle of many of Cleveland's biggest news stories for decades. And his relationships with the press were often ... interesting. (See the YouTube video "George Forbes, How to Properly Chastise a Nuisance Reporter.")
Longtime Plain Dealer and now cleveland.com columnist Brent Larkin will emcee our event, which also will feature other guests.
More details will be forthcoming. But plan on joining us Sept. 26 for memories, war stories and lessons for today's journalists.
Calling all freelancers
Have you chosen to go independent as a freelancer or entrepreneur in journalism, communications, marketing or publishing?
Well, there still can be strength in numbers. Meet and network with colleagues who have chosen the same route at - fittingly - the Tavern of Independence.
The mixer is 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 12 at 5530 Brecksville Road in Independence. The $15 cost includes one drink (followed by a cash bar) and heavy appetizers.
And it's sponsored by a slew of your favorite organizations, including the Press Club of Cleveland, the Akron and Cleveland Chapters of the Public Relations Society of America, the American Marketing.