Meet the 2024 Operations All-Stars
The 2024 Operations All-Stars were celebrated on Sept. 26 at the International Newspaper Group (ING) conference in Indianapolis, where top professionals in the newspaper operations sector were recognized for their critical contributions to their publications. The annual salute, organized by Editor & Publisher in partnership with ING, honors excellence in the vital work of getting the paper out — printing, prepress, warehouse and transportation/delivery.
Richard Rinehart, ING president and McClatchy's director of production, acknowledged the winners, saying, "This year's Operations All-Stars program demonstrated remarkable talent that attracted applicants from across the nation. The winners were selected based on their significant contributions to their organizations, unwavering dedication to teamwork, and pursuit of excellence. On behalf of the ING board of directors and myself, congratulations to all the winners. We would also like to acknowledge all those who were nominated for their outstanding efforts."
Brian Karnick, senior vice president of manufacturing at Tribune Publishing and head of the All-Stars committee, highlighted the leadership and innovation of the awardees: "The ING All-Stars class of 2024 was made up of a group of industry leaders with a diverse set of skills and expertise. Among the common themes of this group was their desire to lead from the front and influence their colleagues across departments, overcome obstacles and seize opportunities in order to accomplish the goals of their organizations."
The 2024 Operations All-Stars event underscored the importance of recognizing the hard work and dedication of those who keep newspaper operations running smoothly. As the industry continues to evolve, this year's honorees set a high bar for excellence in their respective fields.
Large Market Co-Winners
Alfredo Silva, Transportation Supervisor, Chicago Tribune
Alfredo Silva, transportation supervisor at the Chicago Tribune, was recognized as a co-winner in the Large Market category. Nominated by Catherine Holt, senior manager of packaging, she praised Silva for his 25 years of service and leadership in transportation operations. Despite daily challenges, including driver shortages, she said Silva ensures all routes are covered and customer metrics are consistently met.
Reflecting on his win, Silva said, "After almost 30 years as an employee of the Chicago Tribune, working through the different production reorganizations, systems changes and transition challenges, I can truly say that this prestigious award is not only a huge surprise, but an honor. It proves that hard work is not only self-rewarding, but it does not go unnoticed."
Holt added, "Alfredo is a dedicated and company-driven individual who never complains. He has been the bridge between manufacturing, transportation and distribution operations. He steps up and takes on additional responsibilities while ensuring operations run smoothly and safely."
Scott Ossenheimer, Production Packaging Manager, Cleveland Plain Dealer
Sharing the top honor in the Large Market category, Scott Ossenheimer, production packaging manager at the Cleveland Plain Dealer, was recognized for his leadership and technical expertise. He was nominated by Aaron Phipps, director of production at Advance Local, who praised Ossenheimer's efforts to improve packaging operations across all Advance Local affiliate markets.
Phipps said, "Scott's vision and leadership have been instrumental in achieving 99.4% insert accuracy and 99.6% on-time performance. He has helped create a more efficient system across multiple markets, and his contributions are invaluable."
"It's an honor to be recognized as an ING Operations All-Star," Ossenheimer said. "This achievement is a testament to the great work done by the dedicated team at The Plain Dealer. It truly is a team award, showing our collective commitment to excellence."
Small Market Winner and Runner-Up
Roger Wright, Production Manager, North State Journal
Roger Wright, production manager at the North State Journal, was awarded first place in the Small Market category. He was nominated by William King, COO of Charlotte Publishing Co., who cited Wright's versatility and commitment to delivering quality work as key reasons for his recognition.
King said, "Roger is the main driver behind our success as a printer for The Wall Street Journal. He leads by example and is highly respected by his team and peers. His leadership has made a significant impact on our operations."
In accepting the award, Wright expressed his gratitude: "It was truly an honor being nominated and winning this award, especially by such prestigious people in the newspaper industry. Thank you to everyone involved. I think if you're still in the newspaper business these days — for this long — we're all All-Stars. Thank you to Dow Jones for showing me another way to do things, to McClatchy and Richard Rinehart for bringing me on board to continue doing what I enjoy, to Neal Robbins, Trip Hoffend and William King for the trust in bringing me on board at the Charlotte Publishing Company, and most of all, to my family for keeping things going on the home front while I'm at work."
Stanly Ochs, Production Manager, CherryRoad Media (Runner-Up)
Stanly Ochs, production manager at CherryRoad Media, was named runner-up in the Small Market category. He was nominated by Paul Hunting, production director at CherryRoad, and celebrated for his hands-on approach and dedication to ensuring smooth production operations.
"Stan is the kind of manager who will jump behind the wheel of a truck to make deliveries if needed," Hunting noted. "His commitment to quality and keeping the team on track is exceptional."
Prepress Winner
Laura Scales, Supervisor of Prepress Operations, Advance Local
The first-place award in the Prepress category went to Laura Scales, supervisor of prepress operations at Advance Local. Nominated by Matt Fleming, director of creative and prepress at Advance Local, Scales was recognized for her leadership in streamlining workflows and training staff. "Laura has been a pillar in guiding our team through significant changes. Her attention to detail and ability to train others while maintaining efficiency has been key to our success."
Scales expressed her appreciation: "I am honored to be recognized by E&P and ING with this generous award. I'm fortunate to work with an amazing team of co-workers and exceptional leadership who make my job easy. Their support and encouragement create a rewarding work environment where we're always learning and growing in this ever-changing industry."
In recognition of their exceptional achievements, first-place winners received a $2,000 cash prize, while runner-up winners were awarded a $1,000 cash prize.
Rinehart expressed gratitude to the event's sponsors, adding, "We take pride in the ING Conference's commitment to recognizing individuals who make impactful contributions, and we extend our sincere gratitude to our All-Stars sponsors: CellMark, imPRESSions Worldwide and Editor & Publisher. We look forward to the 2025 ING Conference and the next celebration of Operations All-Stars honorees."
