The Ironton Tribune received 12 awards for its news coverage in 2004 Sunday at the the Associated Press Society of Ohio's annual banquet in Columbus. Competing against 35 other newspapers from across the state with less than 8,000 daily circulation.

"I couldn't be more proud of the entire newsroom for their hard work and dedication. Awards are not why we do this, but it certainly makes us feel like a job well done," said Michael Caldwell, managing editor. "We also couldn't do this without every other department here and the community for its support and input."

First-place awards were presented for Best Special Section for the Profile 2004 edition and to staff writer Teresa Moore for "Best Investigative Reporting" for her 5-part "Death of Hospital" series looking at the fall of River Valley Health Systems.

Second-place awards were presented to photographer Jessica St. James for "Best Photo Essay," and "Best Photographer," to Kevin Cooper for "Best Illustration."

Third-place awards were presented for "Best Full Page Layout," "Best Page One Layout," "Best Illustration," and for the "Best Daily Sports Section." Kevin Cooper won third place for "Best Spot News Photo." Michael Caldwell won third for "Best News Writer" and "Best Sports Breaking News."

"We are excited for what we have accomplished but know that it a continuous effort," Caldwell said. "We are already looking ahead at how we improve our product and surpass this in 2005."