2018 ONPA Pictures of the Year

First Place, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Jessica Phelps / Newark Advocate

First Place, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Jessica Phelps / Newark Advocate

Daelesha Haile sneaks her head through a hole in the trampoline in her backyard while her sisters Daejahnae and Diamond, brother Dayvon and friend Samantha Elliot all jump around.The Haile children recently moved to Newark, Ohio from Detroit Michigan because their father believed there would be more opportunity and a quieter, safer life for them.

First Place, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Jessica Phelps / Newark Advocate

Bryce Hollenback dumps dried corn kernels out of boot after playing in the grain bin while his mom, not pictured, carefully watched to make sure he didn't get hurt July 18, 2018. Bryce lives on a the family farm with his parents Andy and Mamie and his older brother Arthur. Buying the farm was always Andy's dream and he says he has been fortunate to be successful so far in the 15 years they have owned the property.

First Place, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Jessica Phelps / Newark Advocate

The Dayton University Marching Band takes the field at Granville High School during the Granville Aces home game against Licking Heights September 28, 2018.

First Place, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Jessica Phelps / Newark Advocate

Joey Sanchez of St. Paris Graham Local reacts after beating Jason Hubbard of Stubenville in the division II 152 pound weight class at the OHSAA 2018 state wrestling championships, March 11.

First Place, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Jessica Phelps / Newark Advocate

Richard Collins of Licking Valley reacts in the last minute of the state semifinal game as he realizes his team just lost to Girard, destroying their hope of making it to the state championship for the first time in school history. They fought hard, but in the second half could not keep their lead, and in the final minute of the game lost 53-48, November 25, 2018.
"That might be the greatest game in the history of Licking Valley," Coach Baughman told his team afterwards. "You'll probably hurt for a while, but you will always remember you were involved in this one. I couldn't be prouder of any team I've ever had. You gave us every ounce of effort that you had."

First Place, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Jessica Phelps / Newark Advocate

The daughter of David Earl Barcus addresses the court during the plea hearing for Dustin Lehoe, who pleaded guilty for the aggravated murder of her father on May 17, 2018. Through sobs, she wondered out loud why her father's life had to be taken for drugs and money. "You all took something from me I'll never get back," she said, as she was supported by other family members. Lehoe received 20 years to life in prison, and will be eligible for parole in 23 years.

First Place, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Jessica Phelps / Newark Advocate

Andy Hollenback wipes dirt from his son, Arthur's face July 19, 2018. The pair live on a family far with Andy's wife Mamie and their younger son Bryce. Buying the farm was always Andy's dream and he says he has been fortunate to be successful so far in the 15 years they have owned the property. This year has been a bit different, however, with the tariffs that have been imposed due to President Donald Trump's trade war with China.

First Place, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Jessica Phelps / Newark Advocate

Smoke engulfs the firefighters who responded to a call of fire at Trillium farms November 30, 2018. The fire which started in a pullet barn was left to burn under the supervision of firefighters from multiple departments. Smoke could be seen from miles away. The building and all the hens inside were a complete loss.

First Place, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Jessica Phelps / Newark Advocate

The Crawford family, like many in Newark, Ohio are forced to live in a cramped, unsafe house. The city is lacking in affordable housing, and the homes that are in reach of those living in poverty are often run by absentee landlords and are not kept up to code. The Crawfords, who have 6 children, are doing the best they can to make ends meet and build a better life for their children. The children, however, are very close and always run together in a pack; where one goes the others will soon follow.

Layla, Raquel, Tristen and Sorai Crawford (left to right), watch from their backyard in Newark, Ohio as a storms rolls in April 26, 2018. The siblings and their parents, Melisa and Jack live in a crowded 3 bedroom house on Mt. Vernon Ave. in Newark. Their landlord has been good to the family if they are a couple of days late with rent, but has also been slow fixing the holes in the wall caused by water damage and replacing the kitchen floor which is currently made of plywood.

First Place, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Jessica Phelps / Newark Advocate

Jay, the oldest Crawford child holds his youngest brother, Tristan, after school in April, 2018, as his mom, Melissa, begins to go through a book on financial literacy, required reading to qualify for a Habitat for Humanity house. After months of getting her finances in order, Melisa was finally able to qualify for the Habitat house which will be a safer more affordable option than the home she has been renting in Newark, Ohio.

First Place, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Jessica Phelps / Newark Advocate

Always helping to take care of his younger siblings, Jay Crawford, braves their screams in the kitchen to pour them each a glass of soda, June 26, 2018. The Crawford, a family of eight live in a rundown three bedroom home in Newark. The landlord has been slow to fix problems as they arise, if at all.

First Place, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Jessica Phelps / Newark Advocate

Tristan, 2, the youngest of the six children, curiously puts his fingers in the holes in the entry way of their home April 11, 2018. The three bedroom home, which is too small for their family, but all his parents, Melisa and Jack Crawford can afford, has a myriad of problems, including the holes and cracks in the wall from water damage.

First Place, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Jessica Phelps / Newark Advocate

Landon Crawford unpacks his backpack in the entryway of his home April 26, 2018. Landon, his five siblings and parents live in a crowded unsafe home in Newark, Ohio. Finding safe affordable housing in the city has become an issue for many families in the area.

First Place, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Jessica Phelps / Newark Advocate

Raquel, Jay, Tristen, Landon and Sorai Crawford, play on their bikes in their backyard, April 26, 2018, in Newark, Ohio. Melissa, their mom is always watching them outside because the yard is not safe for the children to play in alone, and there is a whole in the fence the younger children could escape through. Her landlord has been notified multiple times but has yet to fix the problem.

First Place, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Jessica Phelps / Newark Advocate

Melissa Crawford hurries her children inside as rain begins to fall on April 26, 2018, in Newark, Ohio. Melissa, is always watching them outside because the yard is not safe for the children to play in alone, and there is a whole in the fence the younger children could escape through. Her landlord has been notified multiple times but has yet to fix the problem.

First Place, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Jessica Phelps / Newark Advocate

Melissa Crawford (far right) sits on the couch and watches the weather report with her six children, Raquel, Layla, Jay, Tristan, Landon and Sorai to make sure their home was not in the path of a possible tornado, April 26, 2018 Their home is too small for the family, but it is the best Melissa and her fianc√©, Jack can afford.

First Place, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Jessica Phelps / Newark Advocate

Sorai Crawford, 4, sits in her living room with a bucket on her head April 11, 2018. Sorai and her 5 brothers and sisters, and parents, Melisa and Jack live in a crowded 3 bedroom house on Mt. Vernon Ave. in Newark. Their landlord has been good to the family if they are a couple of days late with rent, but has also been slow fixing the holes in the wall caused by water damage and replacing the kitchen floor which is currently made of plywood.
Melisa works 56 hours a week and still has trouble making ends meet for her family.

First Place, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Jessica Phelps / Newark Advocate

In the beginning weeks of summer little leaguers in the farm and varsity division battle it out at Mound City Ball Park for the coveted Shrine Tournament Championship title. The teams come from all over Licking County come and play on the same ball field where their fathers and often grandfather played. Tensions and expectations run high as the teams get narrowed down to the final game.

Thomas Olon, of the Dor-Mar varsity team, watches his teammates bat during the Shrine championship game against Mattingly Landscape on June 28, 2018. Dor-Mar won the game 5-4 and the coveted Shrine Tournament trophy.

First Place, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Jessica Phelps / Newark Advocate

The pitcher from Empire Tattoos takes a deep breath before throwing a pitch in the first round of games during the 74th annual Shrine Tournament June 2, 2018. Empire Tattoos lost their game to Laser Skin Solutions, never getting the chance to advance further in the Shrine Tournament at Mound City Ball Park in Newark, Ohio.

First Place, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Jessica Phelps / Newark Advocate

Aiden Floyd of Troy'z Boy'z slides safely into home as pitcher, Mason Brogan of Dor-Mar from the HSYAA also slides into home trying to tag him out. Dor-MAr was victorious advancing to the next rounds of the tournament. The Shrine Tournament kicked off Saturday June 2, 2018 at Mound City Ball Park. Each weekend for the month of June area little league teams will face off for a chance to compete in the championship game at the end of the month.

First Place, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Jessica Phelps / Newark Advocate

Jaiden Dansby is embraced by teammate Jackson Broyles after scoring the first run the the game for LMH against Newark Optometry on June 16, 2018. LMH won the quarterfinal game 10-2, and proceeded to the semifinal game the following weekend where they lost to Dor Mar NNL in the variety league.

First Place, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Jessica Phelps / Newark Advocate

Dan's Family Pizza pitcher, Chase Wolfe, leaves a handprint on his pants after testing the dirt with hands. Wolfe was pitching tough game during the elite eight week June 16 during the Shrine Tournament, which they won advancing them to the quarterfinal round.

First Place, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Jessica Phelps / Newark Advocate

Players from the Dor-Mar HSYAA farm team gather on the pitchers mound during a time-out in the first round of tournament games during the 74th annual Shrine Tournament held at Mound City Ball Park in June 2, 2018.

First Place, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Jessica Phelps / Newark Advocate

Bat boy for Dan's Pizza, Cooper Wolfe, rubs his eyes after the wind blew dust into eyes at Mound City Ball Park in Newark, Ohio. Wolfe's older brother, Chase pitches for the team and his dad coaches. Each week Wolfe hangs out in the dugout with the older boys running after the bats they toss during the Shrine Tournament June 2, 2018.

First Place, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Jessica Phelps / Newark Advocate

Brayden Koby of the LMH farm team gets a pep talk from his coach and father, Brian Koby, during the 5th inning of the consolation game against Newark Optometry June 29, 2018. LMH won the consolation game, placing them 3rd in the 74th annual Shrine Tournament farm division.

First Place, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Jessica Phelps / Newark Advocate

Mattlingly Landscape players celebrate Hayden Woodward and his home-run hit as he rounds out to home plate in the championship game June 28, 2018. Woodword's homer wasn't enough to give Mattingly Landscape the Shrine Championship Title. They lost the game to Dor-Mar.

First Place, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Jessica Phelps / Newark Advocate

Ahmed and Dunya Al Haek came to Ohio as refugees from Iraq in 2011 with their two daughters, Dima and Maryam. Their son, Mousa was born in Ohio in 2013. The couple have been careful to keep Iraqi and Muslim traditions a strong part of their lives in Ohio. They also understand that their kids are growing up in America and will inevitably take on pieces American culture. Ahmed and Dunya believe that raising their children with the best pieces of each world will give them more advantages in life.
Dima Al Haek, 13, warms up on her violin before returning inside to play for her family at her Aunt's engagement party, March 25, 2018 in Columbus, Ohio. Dima arrived in Ohio in 2011 with her parents and younger sister, Maryam. The family had fled fromIraq to Syria in 2010 after it became unsafe for them in Iraq due to her father working as a translator for the US military.

First Place, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Jessica Phelps / Newark Advocate

Dima Al Haek (left) tries to get her sister, cousins and friends to sit down on a school bus before their summer youth program takes off for a field trip June 14, 2018. The group was heading to Blendon Woods Metro Parks and it was the first time most of them had the chance to wander through the woods.
Dima and her sister Maryam and parents Ahmed and Dunya all came to Ohio from Iraq by way of Syria in 2011. Their younger brother Mousa was born in Ohio.
The family is finding a balance between Iraqi and American cultures, making sure their kids are strongly rooted in their faith and Iraqi traditions while letting them experience life in America.

First Place, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Jessica Phelps / Newark Advocate

Dunya Al Haek (right) helps Gretchen Klingler translate words from Arabic to English during a class on US citizenship. Dunya is taking the class to make sure she passes the citizenship test in the next few months so she can officially become a US citizen.

First Place, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Jessica Phelps / Newark Advocate

Maryam (right) and her older sister, Dima (left) stare incredulously at the vending machine as their bag of Bugles gets stuck. The sisters were at the courthouse waiting for their mother, Dunya's naturalization ceremony on November 14, 2018.

First Place, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Jessica Phelps / Newark Advocate

Sisters Dima (far left) and Maryam (far right) play on their cell phones while their friends and cousins watch. The group were celebrating Dima's 13th birthday as well as her younger brother, Mousa's (not pictured) 4th birthday on November 25, 2017.

First Place, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Jessica Phelps / Newark Advocate

Mousa Al Haek slowly cuts into his 'Angry Birds' birthday cake with help from his mom, Dunya on November 25, 2017. Moussa was born in the US, but his parents fled Iraq with his two older sisters after it became too dangerous for them to remain in Baghdad.
His parents have been very careful to make sure their Iraqi traditions are not forgotten. They only speak Arabic in the home. Mousa, however has learned English by watching American cartoons, which is where he got his love of 'Angry Birds'.

First Place, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Jessica Phelps / Newark Advocate

Ahmed Al Haek curls up on the couch with his two youngest children, Maryam, 8, and Mousa, 3. Ahmed has always been very affectionate with his children.
He moved his family to America in 2011 because Iraq was no longer safe for his family after he worked as a translator with the US military.
Ahmed loves the opportunities America can give his children but is careful to hold tight to Iraqi traditions.

First Place, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Jessica Phelps / Newark Advocate

Ahmed Al Haek dances in the kitchen with his wife, Dunya and oldest daughter Dima at his sisters engagement party, March 25, 2018. Ahmed and Dunya are making sure their children experience the best of American culture while ensuring they hold onto their Iraqi roots.

First Place, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Jessica Phelps / Newark Advocate

Mousa playfully attacks his cousin, Ban, with his Spiderman action figure as they wait for more family to arrive for their aunts engagement party, March 25, 2018. Mousa's parents are making sure he and his sisters experience the best of American culture, while ensuring they hold onto their Iraqi roots.

First Place, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Jessica Phelps / Newark Advocate

One of The Al Haek children's favorite things about American life is Halloween. Every year they get dressed up with their cousins, Ban and Rahaf on October 31 and race from house to house trying to get as much Halloween candy as possible.
After Trick-or-Treating is finishes they dump their candy out at home and begin separating out the pieces that are not Halal. They give those to their non-muslim classmates.

First Place, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Jessica Phelps / Newark Advocate

Dunya Al Haek helps her daughter, Maryam, with her hijab before family and friends arrive for an engagement party for a family member March 25, 2018. Dunya and her husband Ahmed have been careful to keep Iraqi and Muslim traditions a strong part of their lives in Ohio with their three children. They also understand that their kids are growing up in America and will inevitably take on pieces American culture. Ahmed and Dunya believe that raising their children with the best of both worlds will give them many advantages in life.

First Place, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Jessica Phelps / Newark Advocate

Maryam Al Haek and her older sister Dima along and other with other family members dance traditional dances at an engagement party their family is holding for their aunt, Zainab March 25, 2018. The family is steadfastly holding onto their traditions and culture from Iraq while watching their children thrive in America. They believe blending the two worlds will give their children can more advantages in life.

First Place, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Jessica Phelps / Newark Advocate

Dunya Al Haek gently kisses her son Mousa as he absentmindedly waves an American flag in the air at his father's naturalization ceremony, October 23, 2018 in Columbus, Ohio. The family arrived in Ohio eight years ago on a green card. Mousa, 5, was born in Ohio. His two older sisters, Dima and Maryam will receive their citizenship after their parents have theirs.

First Place, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Jessica Phelps / Newark Advocate

Ahmed Al Haek opens his shirt "Superman" style to reveal a T-shirt with both the Iraqi and American flags while on the steps of the courthouse. Ahmed received his citizenship after going through the naturalization ceremony October 23, 1018. Ahmed brought his family to the US in 2011 on a green card after serving as a translator with the military in Iraq.

Second Place, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Lorrie Cecil / ThisWeek Newspapers

Second Place, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Lorrie Cecil / ThisWeek Newspapers

Alexandria Koebel, two, chases bubbles during the Dance Party at the Orange Branch Library on Monday February 19. The Dance Party is held every Monday at 10AM and is structured toward toddler and preschool aged children.

Second Place, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Lorrie Cecil / ThisWeek Newspapers

A butterfly lands on the Chihuly sculpture in the Blooms & Butterflies at the Franklin Park Conservatory on Friday March 16. At any one time there are approximately 2000 butterflies are flying around the Pacific Island Water Garden and around 32,000 over the span of the event which runs through September 16. At 1 pm and 3pm each day is Butterflies 101 where a specialist releases butterflies and at 11am Monday through Friday is Ask a Butterfly Expert where visitors can ask the experts questions as they release butterflies one at a time.

Second Place, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Lorrie Cecil / ThisWeek Newspapers

Sheridan'sAnna Foster, left, and Kettering Archbishop Alter's Perri Bockrath collapse on the track after finishing first and second in the Division II girls 3200 meter during the State Track and Field Meet on Saturday June 2 at Jesse Owens Memorial Stadium.

Second Place, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Lorrie Cecil / ThisWeek Newspapers

One year old Graham Prorok of Pickerington gets a drink from the fountain at the Slate Run Living Historical Farm on Friday July 6. Friday was Story Time at the farm and visitors could listen to "The Little Red Hen" being read. For a schedule of events at Slate Run Historical Farm and the other Metro Parks visit metroparks.net

Second Place, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Lorrie Cecil / ThisWeek Newspapers

Friendship Village of Dublin resident Carole Pehoushek receives a kiss from fellow resident Connie Williams as Connie's husband Sam looks on. They were at John Glenn International Airport on Saturday April 7 to welcome home veterans, including four from Friendship Village as they returned home from their trip to Washington D.C. as part of Honor Flight Columbus. Carole's husband Joe Pehoushek was one of the returning veterans.

Second Place, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Lorrie Cecil / ThisWeek Newspapers

Delta's Cole Mattin does a backflip after defeating Northridge's Klay Reeves in the 126 lbs weight class of the division III State Wrestling Championship finals at the Schottenstein Center on Saturday March 10, 2018.

Second Place, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Lorrie Cecil / ThisWeek Newspapers

Nora Paxton, six, gets her frog to jump by blowing on him during the Dublin Kiwanis Frog Jump on Saturday June 23 at Coffman Park.

Second Place, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Lorrie Cecil / ThisWeek Newspapers

Pickerington Central's Matt Scrape looks up to the sky as he crosses the finish line to become Division I state champion in the boys 3200 meter on Saturday June 2 at Jesse Owens Memorial Stadium. The Tigers were the boys team champions.

Second Place, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Lorrie Cecil / ThisWeek Newspapers

Four year old Hosana Debessay of Groveport has fun making a funny face at Youth Services Specialist Sheri Nicodemus as they read "Chrysanthemum" during the Reading Buddies Power Hour at the Southeast Branch of the Columbus Metropolitan Library on Wednesday March 7. During the group program kids 6-11 read together and play literacy games.

Second Place, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Lorrie Cecil / ThisWeek Newspapers

Levy committee member and parent Joe Buscemi and levy committee co-chair Katie Matney celebrate the passing of issue 6, a 5.84 mil. bond levy, and 1 mill operating levy for Grandview Heights Schools.

Second Place, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Lorrie Cecil / ThisWeek Newspapers

Hartley batboy Justin Wooten, son of assistant coach Randy Wooten, stands with the team during the National Anthem prior to during their division II district final game against Desales on Thursday May 17 at Blacklick Elementary in Gahanna. Hartley no hit Desales and won 1-0.

Second Place, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Lorrie Cecil / ThisWeek Newspapers

Upper Arlington's Dane Goodwin, top, is mobbed by his teammates after his shot at the buzzer gave the Golden Bears a 44-41 win over Dublin Coffman on Saturday February 3.

Second Place, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Lorrie Cecil / ThisWeek Newspapers

Nicole Koenig of Columbus cuddles with her two year old corgi Samson during the Central Ohio August Corgi Meet-Up at Godown Park on Saturday August 4.

Second Place, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Lorrie Cecil / ThisWeek Newspapers

Desales' Owen Faulkner can't quite reach this pass during their game against Watterson at Hagley Field on Friday October 26, 2018. Watterson won 21-14.

Second Place, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Lorrie Cecil / ThisWeek Newspapers

Visitors walk through the rainbow tunnel at the Aglow exhibition on Thursday December 12, 2018 at the Franklin Park Conservatory. The exhibit runs through January 2, 2019.

Second Place, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Lorrie Cecil / ThisWeek Newspapers

Following the Deaths of Westerville Police Officers Eric Joering and Anthony Morelli people from throughout the area came to show their support.

Kris Delagrange, a close friend of the Joering family, fights back tears as a procession carrying the bodies of fWesterville Officers Eric Joering and Anthony Morelli makes its way from the funeral homes to St. Paul the Apostle Parish on Friday February 16. photo by Lorrie Cecil/ ThisWeek Newspapers

Second Place, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Lorrie Cecil / ThisWeek Newspapers

Westerville Division of Police officers Det. Steve Grubbs (far left), Cpl. Jack Johnson (center) and Sgt. Anthony Rudd (right) are consoled as they leave Moreland Funeral Home where the body of Westerville Division of Police officer Anthony Morelli was taken from the Franklin County Coronerís Office. A procession, which included officers from around the state, then escorted the body of officer Eric Joering to Hill Funeral Home.

Second Place, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Lorrie Cecil / ThisWeek Newspapers

Grace Fox, 13, and other members of the Generations Performing Arts Center, hang notes of gratitude and condolence Feb. 12 on a tree near the memorial for fallen officers Morelli and Joering.

Second Place, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Lorrie Cecil / ThisWeek Newspapers

Sgt. Ollie and his partner Delaware K-9 Officer Adam Graham came to St. Paul the Apostle Parish Church to honor Westerville Police Officers Eric Joering and Anthony Morelli on Friday February 16.

Second Place, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Lorrie Cecil / ThisWeek Newspapers

Westerville Detective Steve Grubbs wipes away tears as he prepares to leave Moreland Funeral Home where the body of Officer Anthony Morelli was escorted. The escort which included officers from around the state, then escorted the body Officer Eric Joering to Hill Funeral Home.

Second Place, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Lorrie Cecil / ThisWeek Newspapers

10 year old Trenton Sherwood watches the cars go by on State Street from the window of Edward Jones on Friday February 16. State Street was full of police cruisers from around the state and country coming to attend the funeral for Westerville officers Eric Joering and Anthony Morelli. Trenton was at work with his mom, Senior Branch Office Administrator Kristy Sherwood since Westerville Schools were off on Friday.

Second Place, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Lorrie Cecil / ThisWeek Newspapers

Centerburg Cheerleaders left to right Mikaila Griffith, Hope Lejeune and Korinne Newman console one another while at the memorial in front of Westerville City Hall for Officers Eric Joering and Anthony Morelli on Friday February 16. The Centerburg cheerleading squad came and stood in front of City Hall holding a "Thin Blue Line" flag as the procession carrying the bodies of officers Joering and Morelli from the funeral homes to St. Paul the Apostle Parish.

Second Place, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Lorrie Cecil / ThisWeek Newspapers

Westerville Police Officers carry the body of Officer Eric Joering out of St. Paul the Apostle Parish. A joint service for Joering and Officer Anthony Morelli were held on Friday February 16.

Second Place, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Lorrie Cecil / ThisWeek Newspapers

Westerville Police Chief Joseph Morbitzer carries a folded flag to present to Linda Morelli, the widow of fallen officer Anthony Morelli during a joint funeral for Morelli and fellow Officer Eric Joering on Friday February 16.

Second Place, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Lorrie Cecil / ThisWeek Newspapers

Pictured here is part of an ever growing memorial in front of Westerville City Hall to honor fallen Westerville Police officers Eric Joering and Anthony Morelli.

Third Place, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Shane Flanigan / ThisWeek Newspapers

, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Shane Flanigan / ThisWeek Newspapers

Evelia Morales holds on tightly to the remains of her son, Andrew Morales, as she and her husband, Fernando Morales, right, and son, Luis Morales, make their way past rows of Dublin Coffman students and faculty after a vigil held in Andrew's honor March 8, 2018, at Dublin Coffman High School in Dublin, Ohio. Andrew died unexpectedly during a symphonic band practice Monday night, March 5.

, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Shane Flanigan / ThisWeek Newspapers

Dublin Muirfield's Brady Delmore, right, pinches teammate Brayden Swenson's cheeks before their heat in the age 9-10, 100-meter freestyle relay at the NEW League Championships on July 16, 2018, at Dublin Community Pool North in Dublin Ohio.

, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Shane Flanigan / ThisWeek Newspapers

JoeJoe Willis, 5, of Grove City, runs through the thick smoke billowing from a fog machine at the annual Boo Off Broadway trick-or-treat event, hosted by Grove City Parks and Recreation, Oct. 31, 2018, in Grove City, Ohio.

, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Shane Flanigan / ThisWeek Newspapers

Dublin Coffman outsider hitter Riley Wagoner is photographed Sept. 13, 2018, at Dublin Coffman High School in Dublin, Ohio. Last season, Wagoner was named OCC-Central Division Player of the Year and first-team all-state while leading the Shamrocks in kills (456), serves received (375) and finishing second in digs (300).

, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Shane Flanigan / ThisWeek Newspapers

Africentric's Tearra Cook (11), Charjae' Brock (12), Lyric Ransom (3), and Arianna Smith (5), dance with head coach William McKinney as he receives his medal after the Nubians defeated Versailles, 53-47, in the Division III state championship game March 17, 2018, at The Jerome Schottenstein Center in Columbus, Ohio. Africentric claimed its sixth girls basketball title with the victory.

, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Shane Flanigan / ThisWeek Newspapers

Lita Jenkins, 9, of Westerville, determinedly takes bites from a suspended doughnut without using her hands at Otterbein University Center for Community Engagement's annual Fall Harvest Festival on Sept. 29, 2018, at the Otterbein Community Garden in Westerville, Ohio.

, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Shane Flanigan / ThisWeek Newspapers

Westerville South's Chip McGrew competes in the 1 meter dive during a swim meet Dec. 21, 2018, at Westerville Community Center in Westerville, Ohio.

, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Shane Flanigan / ThisWeek Newspapers

Olentangy Orange players prepare to take the field against Watterson on Aug. 31, 2018, at Olentangy Orange High School in Lewis Center, Ohio.

, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Shane Flanigan / ThisWeek Newspapers

Evelyn Lucas, 2, of Delaware, plays with a dinosaur-themed, water fountain at the Veterans Park splash pad July 17, 2018, in Delaware, Ohio.

, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Shane Flanigan / ThisWeek Newspapers

Grandview Heights' Carlie Orr celebrates with teammate Tia Thomas (14) after scoring the tying goal with 17 seconds remaining in regulation during a Division III regional semifinal match against Zanesville Rosecrans on Oct. 30, 2018, at Lakewood High School in Hebron, Ohio. The Bobcats fell to Rosecrans in a shootout, 2-1 (3-1).

, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Shane Flanigan / ThisWeek Newspapers

Lifetime Dublin's Taylor McCoppin reacts to her team's performance in the age 9-10, 100-meter freestyle medley during the NEW League Championships on July 16, 2018, at Dublin Community Pool North in Dublin Ohio.

, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Shane Flanigan / ThisWeek Newspapers

Pickerington Central's Jada Tate lets her emotions out while hugging teammate Madison Greene after the Tigers defeated Solon, 49-45, in the Division I state championship game March 17, 2018, at The Jerome Schottenstein Center in Columbus, Ohio. Central claimed its seventh girls basketball state title with a 49-45 win over Solon.

, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Shane Flanigan / ThisWeek Newspapers

Lt. Kevin Childs, with Truro Township Fire Department, helps Joseph Finnerty II, 5, of Reynoldsburg, spray some targets at a firefighter game during the fourth annual National Night Out event, hosted by the Reynoldsburg Division of Police, on Aug. 7, 2018, in Reynoldsburg, Ohio.

, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Shane Flanigan / ThisWeek Newspapers

Dublin Scioto seniors Logan Williams (54), Jarrett Marshall (70), Kyron Rogers (5), Eric Holsinger (2) and Cayson Pfeiffer wait for the coin toss before a game against New Albany on Aug. 30, 2018, at Dublin Scioto High School in Dublin, Ohio.

, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Shane Flanigan / ThisWeek Newspapers

From left, Africentric's Ly'Heem Hilliard, John Figueroa and Dorian Holloway react on the bench after a 67-57 loss to Deer Park in the Division III state championship game March 24, 2018, at The Jerome Schottenstein Center in Columbus, Ohio.

, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Shane Flanigan / ThisWeek Newspapers

Kelly Helser, art teacher, can't help but laugh as Todd Sautters, social studies teacher, both with Canal Winchester High School, reacts to his bowl losing its shape on a pottery wheel Jan. 17, 2018, at Canal Winchester High School. CWHS faculty and students are creating ceramic bowls for the Canal Winchester Human Services' SOUPer Bowl fundraiser. Guests who attend the event Feb. 4, 2018, can enjoy a free lunch of homemade soups and desserts and purchase the ceramic bowls for $10. All proceeds go toward helping the day-to-day operations at Canal Winchester Human Services.

, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Shane Flanigan / ThisWeek Newspapers

Residents of the Willow Brook Christian Village retirement community participated in a flag football game in honor of Jake Jarvis, an 18-year-old Delaware Area Career Center student who works at the community center. Jarvis, who has Duchenne muscular dystrophy, dreams of becoming a sports announcer and was set to announce the game, but was unable to attend due to illness. The game continued on.

Village 99-ers players Dana Brush, 85; Steve Wells, 76; and Frank Rowe, 89, wait for the start of the Village Super Bowl on Feb 2. 2018, at Willow Brook Christian Village in Delaware, Ohio.

, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Shane Flanigan / ThisWeek Newspapers

From right to left, Shirley Jackson, 95; Phyllis Wood, 95; Shirley Brush, 82; and Pat Coe, 82, cheer on their Village 99-ers flag football team at the Village Super Bowl on Feb 2. 2018, at Willow Brook Christian Village in Delaware, Ohio.

, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Shane Flanigan / ThisWeek Newspapers

An assortment of football-themed cookies were part of the refreshments available at the Village Super Bowl on Feb 2. 2018, at Willow Brook Christian Village in Delaware, Ohio.

, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Shane Flanigan / ThisWeek Newspapers

Kandy Cox, director of resident services and Village 99-ers head coach, runs around her blockers during the Village Super Bowl on Feb 2. 2018, at Willow Brook Christian Village in Delaware, Ohio.

, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Shane Flanigan / ThisWeek Newspapers

Warren Shively, 84, passes the ball during the Village Super Bowl on Feb 2. 2018, at Willow Brook Christian Village in Delaware, Ohio.

, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Shane Flanigan / ThisWeek Newspapers

Julie Bardelang-Wolf, right, high fives and wishes good luck to Charlene Blum, 76, before the start of the Village Super Bowl on Feb 2. 2018, at Willow Brook Christian Village in Delaware, Ohio.

Award of Excellence, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - /

Award of Excellence, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Scott Heckel / The Canton Repository

Kourtney Hochstetler, the wife of Joshua R. Hochstetler, is embraced by Donna Hochstetler, Joshua's aunt, during a Memorial Checkpoint Presentation at the Massillon Recreation Center on Thursday, August 23, 2018. The event honored the memory of Joshua R. Hochstetler, who was killed by a drunk driver in 2017. Kourtney survived the accident and received a standing ovation after her emotional address to the group.

Award of Excellence, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Scott Heckel / The Canton Repository

Perry's Gia Durieux (31) and Payton Gottshall (glasses) leap into each others arms while their teammates race onto the field after defeating Lakota West 11-1 during their D1 state championship game at Firestone Stadium in Akron on Saturday, June 2, 2018.

Award of Excellence, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Scott Heckel / The Canton Repository

Kristina Lockwood holds her 1-1/2 year old daughter Elise as SingStark! performs classic Beatles tunes at the Canton Brewing Company Speakeasy on Wednesday, June 20, 2018.

Award of Excellence, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Scott Heckel / The Canton Repository

Louisville's Max Hartline (5) is brought down by Hoover's Elliot Tornow (21) and Chase Columber (50) on fourth down during the second quarter of their game at Hoover on Friday, August 31, 2018.

Award of Excellence, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Scott Heckel / The Canton Repository

Trinity Hinton (a.k.a "Trinity"), Ken Smith (a.k.a "Hatteras Jack") and Stephen Hinton (a.k.a. "Captain Blade") are a group of pirates who do fundraising for local groups. The group, known as "Pirates of the Rusty Cutlass," are shown in the Hinton's home in Canton on Friday, March 9, 2018.

Award of Excellence, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Scott Heckel / The Canton Repository

West Branch players mob pitcher Kelsey Byers (center) after their 3-1 victory over Perry in the D2 regional semifinal game at Firestone Stadium in Akron on Wednesday, May 23, 2018.

Award of Excellence, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Scott Heckel / The Canton Repository

"Buddy" is helped into a window by Devin Ryan, a police officer with the Cambridge Police Department during training in the 2100 block of Clearview Avenue NW in Canton on Wedneday, May 2, 2018.

Award of Excellence, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Scott Heckel / The Canton Repository

Massillon's Jaylen Leedy slides to make the catch on a ball hit by Fitch's Kole Klasic during the third inning of their D1 district semifinal game at Thurman Munson Memorial Stadium in Canton on Monday, May 14, 2018.

Award of Excellence, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Scott Heckel / The Canton Repository

Justin T. Layne wipes away a tear during his guilty plea in the death of six month old Braydon M. Perry in a Stark County Common Peas courtroom in Canton on Tuesday, Dec. 18, 2018.

Award of Excellence, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Scott Heckel / The Canton Repository

Tears stream down the face of GlenOak's Aniyah Hall after losing 44-41 to Jackson in D1 district final at the Canton Memorial Field House on Thursday, March 1, 2018.

Award of Excellence, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Scott Heckel / The Canton Repository

Emalea Strack reacts after bumping her nose into the ice cream cone of her mother Kandice Strack during an ice cream social at Fairmount School for those enroling in the year-round school for Canton City Schools on Tuesday, July 10, 2018. Also visible is Emalea's sister Kaylea Strack (left).

Award of Excellence, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Scott Heckel / The Canton Repository

Louisville's Emma Patterson took a drink of water before pouring the rest on her face duing the East Canton Invitational Cross Country Meet in East Canton on Thursday, August 30, 2018. Patterson finished third.

Award of Excellence, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Scott Heckel / The Canton Repository

Canton firefighter/paramedics Debbie Dawson (left) and Jimmy Mills walk through water on Spring Avenue NE and 14th Street NE after a storm swept through Canton causing flash flooding Thursday, July 5, 2018.

Award of Excellence, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Scott Heckel / The Canton Repository

Ray Lewis (right), and and his former Ravens teammate Jonathan Ogden, recreate Lewis' pregame dance during Lewis' speech at the Pro Football Hall of Fame Festival Enshrinement in Canton on Saturday, August 4, 2018. Ogden was enshrined in 2013.

Award of Excellence, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Scott Heckel / The Canton Repository

Jackson’s Jake Ehmann takes a hand to the face while driving through the lane during the second quarter of their D1 regional semifinal game against Copley at the Wolstein Center in Cleveland on Wednesday, March 14, 2018.

Award of Excellence, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Scott Heckel / The Canton Repository

Royal Knights' Nick Doyle takes a knee and prays at center court before their Stark Public Special Olympics game against Medina DD at Louisville on Thursday, Jan. 11, 2018.

Award of Excellence, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Scott Heckel / The Canton Repository

Royal Knights' Cameron Broom greets Canton Charge mascot "Pozzie" while being introduced before their Stark Public Special Olympics game against Medina DD at Louisville on Thursday, Jan. 11, 2018.

Award of Excellence, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Scott Heckel / The Canton Repository

Royal Knights' Max Broom takes a shot during their Stark Public Special Olympics game against Medina DD at Louisville on Thursday, Jan. 11, 2018.

Award of Excellence, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Scott Heckel / The Canton Repository

Stephanie Gray cheers with the Louisville cheerleaders during a Stark Public Special Olympics game between the Royal Knights and Medina DD at Louisville on Thursday, Jan. 11, 2018.

Award of Excellence, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Scott Heckel / The Canton Repository

Medina's Josh Fry is lifted to his feet by Royal Knights players during the second quarter of their Stark Public Special Olympics game against Medina DD at Louisville on Thursday, Jan. 11, 2018.

Award of Excellence, Photographer of the Year - Small Market - Scott Heckel / The Canton Repository

Emily Hill cheers with Louisville cheerleader Caroline Gatta during a Stark Public Special Olympics game between the Royal Knights and Medina DD at Louisville on Thursday, Jan. 11, 2018.