Comet staff writer Debbie Lowe and columnist Alan Shultz were recognized Saturday by the Hoosier State Press Association as winners in its annual HSPA Foundation Better Newspaper Contest.

Lowe won second place in editorial writing for weekly newspapers with a circulation of over 4,000.

Contest judges from the Oklahoma Press Association commented about Lowe's entries: "These two editorials are fine examples of local commentary and came close to winning the top spot in this division. 'Taxpayers expect more, demand more' describes an alarming situation at the county level that in Oklahoma and probably many other states would be either referred to the district attorney or made the subject of a grand jury investigation. Evidently in Indiana the solution is for the people to react at the polls, and if that's the way things work there, the Carroll County Comet performed a public service by pointing out the shortcomings of these officeholders. The second editorial is a commentary on a pending merger of two rural electric coops and asks some pointed questions members ought to appreciate. Both are strong and informative."

Shultz, who writes Midwest Memo, won third place for best general columnist. Judges commented: "Thanks for bringing common sense to the table! If only every one of those celebrities who point their fingers at us about saving the planet could read your Midwest Memo and realize you're talking about them! I think many agree with what you expressed as 'silly talk' and 'just for show' and were happy to see someone express it publicly. You made your point, caught the reader's attention, and made a reasonable suggestion … Respect the earth, clean-up and conserve! Well-written. You brought the frustration so many of us feel regarding the general public's fascination with in-the-ear technology to the readers in a pleasant, humorous way, while making a strong point. While such gadgetry is remarkable, it's also remarkable that we're not staying 'in tune' with those around us and are missing out on the simple pleasures or skipping rocks along the river bank. I think your readers must look forward to seeing your column as you write about what they can relate to. Good job!"