The Hamilton County Reporter is proud to name Janet Hart Leonard as the first recipient of our Ink-Stained Wretch Award. Janet’s award certificate reads, “In recognition and appreciation for her exceptional writing, her work as our unofficial community ambassador, and her dedication to all things Hamilton County.”
Reporter Publisher Stu Clampitt and Reporter Owner Ray Adler presented Janet with her award on Monday, May 5. Thanks to our community partners, Janet also received a fountain pen inscribed with the words “Ink-Stained Wretch,” a certificate for a free railbike ride from Nickel Plate Heritage Railroad, and a $100 gift certificate for a celebratory dinner at Pasto Italiano, 3150 E. State Road 32, Westfield.
An ink-stained wretch is an old idiom from the halcyon days when people wrote with pens. [Editor’s note: A pen is a physical device filled with ink with which we used to scratch words on paper. “Ink-stained wretch” was a phrase for those of us who made a living from writing.]
For several minutes, Janet was struck speechless. It should be noted that she did not know why she was called in for a meeting and said it felt like she was being called to the principal’s office.
“Receiving the Ink-Stained Wretch Award from the HCR leaves me grasping for words to express what this honor means to me,” Janet said. “Writing is such a passion of mine. To think that my words matter never ceases to amaze me. For 19 years, I have shared my heart and my thoughts with my readers. I am honored to be a columnist for the Hamilton County Reporter. From dreaming about being a writer in high school to becoming a columnist and author truly shows that dreams really do come true.”
Janet’s columns have been published on the front page of The Reporter every week since Feb. 16, 2014, though she had been writing for another publication for several years prior. You can read the Feb. 16, 2014 edition with Janet’s first column at tinyurl.com/JanetFirstColumn.
“The week after she was named Hamilton County’s best columnist in 2013, the newspaper she had been writing for stopped publishing her work without notice,” Reporter Publisher Stu Clampitt said. “They also said something about putting her back in print if a certain car dealership would advertise. Upon hearing that story, Ray Adler and I both reassured Janet that her place in OUR pages is safe for as long as she wants it.”
Nickel Plate Heritage Railroad Executive Director Emily Reynolds told The Reporter she was more than happy to add a free railbike excursion to Janet’s award package.
“Janet has been a tremendous member of our community,” Reynolds told The Reporter. “Her column in the paper is always a joy to read. Janet has supported Nickel Plate Heritage Railroad since our beginning and even served on the board at one time. We are honored to help recognize her.”
Adler said he appreciates the quality of her writing and how she keeps everything grounded in her faith.
“I’ve seen some things in my practice that make me a firm believer there is a God,” Adler said. “Every mistake I’ve made has been because I didn’t follow what I know. Janet lives and writes from her faith. No wonder it’s so good.”
Page Designer and Circulation Director Isaac Taylor has said many times that Janet’s caring character makes her the grandma everyone deserves to have.
“There’s a reason Janet’s words appear at the top of every week’s print edition of The Reporter: maximum exposure!” Taylor said. “Honestly, though, it’s because in her column, she speaks naturally and without reservation. Our readers benefit from her spiritual wisdom gained through years of both pain and triumph – something with which we all can relate. Frankly, this newspaper as well as this county are better because of her.”
Reporter Co-Owner Seth Wilson said Janet’s writing reminds him there is more to life than being busy.
“I appreciate Janet sharing her words of wisdom through her column,” Wilson said. “Her writing brings a fresh and encouraging perspective to life. I look forward to reading the stories and experiences she shares through her column. Janet’s columns often cause me to stop and reflect, something much needed in the busyness of life. Congratulations on being selected as the winner of this year’s Ink-Stained Wretch Award! It is well-deserved.”
Hamilton County’s Hometown Weatherman Paul Poteet, who also owns a piece of The Reporter, said he and Mrs. Poteet both love reading Janet’s work.
“I’m glad we stumbled upon Janet’s Little House on the Alley, and made her part of our Little Newspaper on the Front Page,” Poteet said. “Her warm, personal style is a hit with our readers. Mrs. Poteet bought her book, and her taste is impeccable! Congrats on being an ink-stained wretch, Janet. I look forward to seeing more stories straight from the Hart in the Hamilton County Reporter.”
Congratulations, Janet. You truly earned it.
Congratulations ! So very deserved !
Congratulations!