San Diego Press Club
51st Annual Excellence in Journalism Awards – All Winners
PROFESSIONAL MEDIA
At Large: Body of Work
First Place - Adam Racusin, Steve Reusch, “The Cost of Care,” KGTV-TV
Second Place - Mateo Hoke, “Best Overall Body of Work — Mateo Hoke,” San Diego Magazine
Third Place - Ken Stone, “Ken Stone body of work,” Times of San Diego
Honorable Mention - Ken Herman, “Ken Herman, Classical Music Critic,” sandiegostory.com
At Large: Wildcard: ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
First Place - Jamie Reno, “AI: It It May Be 'Artificial', And Sometimes It lies, But It Sure Is Intelligent,” BreakingCancerNews.com
Second Place - Jennifer Kastner, “Mind-Bending Businesses Behind the Generative AI Explosion,” San Diego Business Journal
Rising Star: Rising Star
First Place - Elyan Shor, “Rising Star award nomination - Elyan Shor,” San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance
Online and Daily newspapers: Architecture and Design
First Place - Nicole Sours Larson, “Catio homes a cool solution for cooped-up felines,” The San Diego Union-Tribune
Second Place - Alana Coons, Sande Lollis, Ann Jarmusch, Janet O’Dea, Allen Hazard, “Rediscovering Calle Judeo,” Save Our Heritage Organisation
Third Place - Alana Coons, Sande Lollis, Ann Jarmusch, Janet O’Dea, Allen Hazard, “The Golden Era of San Diego's Architectural Art Tile: 1910-1940,” Save Our Heritage Organisation
Honorable Mention - Nicole Sours Larson, “Big dreams on a small scale: TinyFest returns to Del Mar Fairgrounds March 16-17,” The San Diego Union-Tribune
Online and Daily newspapers: Breaking News
First Place - Lauren J. Mapp, Jeff McDonald, “Man trapped for possibly days in Sunset Cliffs crevasse freed after 19-hour rescue,” The San Diego Union-Tribune
Second Place - Karen Kucher, “San Diego police dog, armed suspect killed in confrontation at Mesa College,” The San Diego Union-Tribune
Honorable Mention - Jamie Reno, “Now It’s A Fair Fight! The Age of Immunotherapy Has Arrived For Cancer Patients,” BreakingCancerNews.com
Online and Daily newspapers: Business & Financial
First Place - Philip Salata, “‘White gold’ could revolutionize Imperial Valley. Will locals be included?,” inewsource
Second Place - Lara Azevedo-McCaffrey, “San Diegans feel the impact of 99 Cents Only Store closure,” KPBS.org
Third Place - George Varga, “NAMM, the Super Bowl of music trade shows, resumes in Anaheim with new CEO who welcomes AI and influencers,” The San Diego Union-Tribune
Honorable Mention - Ken Stone, “Google Saving Local Journalism or Dooming It? LA Times Exec Fears Statewide ‘News Desert,’” Times of San Diego
Online and Daily newspapers: Column - Light Subject
First Place - Irv Erdos, “Task it or casket: It’s a daily choice, Brooklyn home: No views, no peace, no quiet, no parking: $4 million, Trading San Diego sun for Montana snow,” The San Diego Union-Tribune
Second Place - Gayle Lynn Falkenthal, “Falkentalk,” NY Fights
Third Place - Jim Trageser, “Tales From the Newsroom,” Lost In Cyberspace
Online and Daily newspapers: Column - Serious Subject
First Place - Jan Goldsmith, “Someone San Diego Should Know,” The San Diego Union-Tribune
Online and Daily newspapers: Criminal Justice
First Place - Sofía Mejías-Pascoe, “Border Patrol Chase,” inewsource
Second Place - Roberto Camacho, “The Heavy Toll,” Palabra
Third Place - Lauren J. Mapp, “Nearly four years after protests took a violent turn in La Mesa, the healing continues,” The San Diego Union-Tribune
Honorable Mention - Lauren J. Mapp, “Silent seniors continue monthly protests in University Heights to honor Black Lives Matter movement,” The San Diego Union-Tribune
Online and Daily newspapers: Editorials
First Place - Chris Jennewein, “San Diego’s Brian Jones Helps Build an Effective ‘Loyal Opposition’ in Sacramento,” Times of San Diego
Honorable Mention - Gayle Lynn Falkenthal, “Saudi Boxing League Isn't What The Fans Think,” NY Fights
Online and Daily newspapers: Education
First Place - Jakob McWhinney, “A Gun Sighting at a Middle School Puts Discipline at San Diego Unified into Focus,” Voice of San Diego
Second Place - Andrea Figueroa Briseño, “Covering South Bay schools,” inewsource
Third Place - Ron Donoho, “Words Alive! Nonprofit Strives To Turn The Page On Literacy Shortfalls,” The San Diego Sun
Honorable Mention - Alexander Nguyen, “Students privacy rights vs. parental notifications — legally speaking, it’s complicated,” KPBS.org
Online and Daily newspapers: Election Coverage
First Place - inewsource team, “San Diego voters head to the polls,” inewsource
Second Place - Alexander Nguyen, “Primary Election 2024: What is the Central Committee and why can’t I find information about it?,” KPBS.org
Third Place - Ken Stone, “Toss-Up in Congress Race of Rep. Levin vs. Matt Gunderson? GOP Poll Is Scrutinized,” Times of San Diego
Online and Daily newspapers: Entertainment Reporting
First Place - Beth Wood, “Projections, props, dance and spoken word poetry are expanding the boundaries of classical concerts,” The San Diego Union-Tribune
Second Place - George Varga, “Hip-hop at 50: Its global impact has surpassed that of rock ‘n’ roll a generation earlier,” The San Diego Union-Tribune
Third Place - Marcia Luttrell, “World Ballet Festival brings Tiler Peck and much more to San Diego,” The San Diego Union-Tribune
Online and Daily newspapers: Environment
First Place - Alexander Nguyen, “New technology helping San Diego researchers study elusive rattlesnake,” KPBS.org
Second Place - Zoë Meyers, “On the shores of the Salton Sea, a glimmer of the American Dream drives growth,” inewsource
Third Place - Phil Diehl, “It took 30 years, but world’s largest artificial reef built near San Diego nuclear power plant is finally thriving,” The San Diego Union-Tribune
Honorable Mention - Ken Stone, “‘Love Your Neighbor’: San Diego Diocese Divests, Boasts Full-Time Climate Chief,” Times of San Diego
Online and Daily newspapers: Essay/Commentary/Opinion
First Place - Gayle Lynn Falkenthal, “Saudi Boxing League Isn’t What The Fans Think,” NY Fights
Second Place - Ron Donoho, “CNN’s 2023 Hero Of The Year: ‘Let’s Look Out For Each Other,’” The San Diego Sun
Third Place - Bill Swank, “Former Negro League player spoke clearly on patriotism, respect for the flag,” The San Diego Union-Tribune
Honorable Mention - Jamie Reno, “From Rebel to Lifesaver: AI and Cancer,” BreakingCancerNews.com
Online and Daily newspapers: Feature - Light Subject
First Place - Roberto Camacho, “Chicano (Park) Power,” Palabra
Second Place - Bill Swank, “Babe Ruth, Tony Gwynn lead our lineup of Baseball Santas as ho-ho-holiday arrives,” The San Diego Union-Tribune
Third Place - Beth Wood, “Lang Lang on Alicia Keys, Herbie Hancock, Disney and ‘Tom and Jerry’ cartoons,” The San Diego Union-Tribune
Online and Daily newspapers: Feature - Serious Subject
First Place - Sofía Mejías-Pascoe, Cody Dulaney, Philip Salata, Zoë Meyers, “48 Hours in a Migrant Encampment,” inewsource
Second Place - Chris Stone, “Turning the Tide Against Suicide: Retired Fire Chief at Annual Games in San Diego,” Times of San Diego
Third Place - Bransen Harper, Patrick Watkins, “‘There were guys with guns, with silencers,’” East County Magazine
Online and Daily newspapers: Food
First Place - Lauren J. Mapp, “Welcome to Tides & Tacos, a project sharing diverse stories of San Diego's food scene,” Tides & Tacos
Second Place - Lauren J. Mapp, “Apple picking season on track for success in Julian, even in Hilary’s aftermath,” The San Diego Union-Tribune
Third Place - Irv Erdos, “Pasta, pastry, and progeny promise perfect Pasqua,” The San Diego Union-Tribune
Online and Daily newspapers: Gardening
First Place - Caron Golden, “Neighborhood Composting Creates a Community Out of Kitchen Scraps,” The San Diego Union-Tribune
Second Place - Nicole Sours Larson, “A living sculpture garden in Mission Hills,” The San Diego Union-Tribune
Online and Daily newspapers: General News
First Place - Phil Diehl, “San Diego freight trains continue running despite threat of San Clemente landslides,” The San Diego Union-Tribune
Second Place - Alexander Nguyen, “Time’s ticking for San Diego Diaper Bank Program,” KPBS.org
Online and Daily newspapers: Health & Medicine
First Place - Adam Behar, “Gringos who drive to Zona Rio for mental help...The trip from Whittier via Utah to Playas,” The San Diego Reader
Second Place - Jakob McWhinney, “UCSD Researchers Are Studying Whether Magic Mushrooms Can Treat Phantom Limb Pain,” Voice of San Diego
Third Place - Lauren J. Mapp, “A $25 minimum wage for California’s health care workers could increase retention, but at what cost?” The San Diego Union-Tribune
Honorable Mention - Andrea Figueroa Briseño, Crystal Niebla, “Child care centers in San Diego, Imperial counties among thousands yet to comply with lead testing,” inewsource
Online and Daily newspapers: History
First Place - Chris Stone, “How Did He Survive WWII, Korea and Vietnam? ‘I Ran Fast and Ducked Low,’” Times of San Diego
Second Place - Elisabeth Frausto, “La Jolla Luminaries: Tim Gonzalez, The Cave Store,” lajolla.ca
Third Place - Marsha Sutton, “Recognizing a Landmark Supreme Court Ruling, 70 years later,” Times of San Diego
Honorable Mention - Gayle Lynn Falkenthal, “Boxing's 8 Best Ringwalks,” NY Fights
Online and Daily newspapers: Humor
First Place - Bill Swank, “The old PCL Padres oozed character. Here’s a look at some of their craziest stories,” The San Diego Union-Tribune
Second Place - Irv Erdos, “Brooklyn aunts proclaim: ‘Tis the sea, son,’” The San Diego Union-Tribune
Third Place - Irv Erdos, “Extended forecast: Sunshine, sea breeze, solace, and swagger,” The San Diego Union-Tribune
Online and Daily newspapers: Investigative Reporting
First Place - Cody Dulaney, “Illegal rent increases,” inewsource
Online and Daily newspapers: Military
First Place - Chris Stone, “Not ‘Big Hairy Monsters’ or Superman, Say San Diego Navy SEALs of Vietnam,” Times of San Diego
Second Place - Jamie Reno, “New Cancer Moonshot Initiatives for Troops and Veterans With Cancer,” BreakingCancerNews.com
Third Place - Bill Swank, “Padres, military were aligned long before the team began wearing camo jerseys,” The San Diego Union-Tribune
Honorable Mention - Ken Stone, “Walt Nauta's ‘Weird’ Navy Bio: Why Was Trump Aide in San Diego Only a Month?,” Times of San Diego
Online and Daily newspapers: Multicultural
First Place - Jakob McWhinney, “For Native Communities, SDUSD Flag Raising Part of a Bigger Picture,” Voice of San Diego
Second Place - Joshua Silla, “Houses Of Israel & Palestine Coexist In Balboa Park's International Cottages,” The San Diego Sun
Third Place - Chris Stone, “San Diego Diocese Ordains Vietnamese, Mexican Immigrants as Auxiliary Bishops,” Times of San Diego
Honorable Mention - Lauren J. Mapp, “Santee approves plans for Ukrainian Catholic Church: ‘It will feel like a little piece of Ukraine,’” The San Diego Union-Tribune
Online and Daily newspapers: Political/Government
First Place - Greg Moran, Crystal Niebla, “The devastating flood of 2024, told by those who were there,” inewsource
Second Place - Ken Stone, “Q&A With GOP’s Ellis T. Jones, D3 San Diego City Council Candidate, Ex-Felon,” Times of San Diego
Third Place - Ken Stone, “Threats to Local Elected Officials Studied: Nearly Half of Women Consider Quitting,” Times of San Diego
Honorable Mention - Michael Howard, “La Mesa bans remote public comments after anti-Semitic rants,” East County Magazine
Online and Daily newspapers: Profile
First Place - Bill Swank, “Bill Swank: San Diego’s Walter McCoy was a living link to Negro Leagues, baseball history,” The San Diego Union-Tribune
Second Place - Karen Kucher, “Think school drug assemblies are boring? Then you haven't heard former DEA Agent Rocky Herron give one,” The San Diego Union-Tribune
Third Place - Madison Geering, “World-Class Paralympian Has Meaty New Goals For Gaslamp Quarter Restaurant,” The San Diego Sun
Online and Daily newspapers: Public Service/Consumer Advocacy
First Place - J W August, “On Sunshine Week, San Diego's Open Records System Is Failing,” Times of San Diego
Second Place - Miriam Raftery, “How dangerous is the area where La Mesa seeks to erect digital billboards?” East County Magazine
Online and Daily newspapers: Real Estate
First Place - Elisabeth Frausto, “‘Climate migration’: Is extreme weather driving up real estate demand in La Jolla?” lajolla.ca
Second Place - Elisabeth Frausto, “Foxhill Estate: La Jolla’s den of French endurance,” lajolla.ca
Online and Daily newspapers: Reviews: Live Performance
First Place - George Varga, “Stevie Nicks spun an expertly calibrated musical web at her San Diego concert,” The San Diego Union-Tribune
Second Place - George Varga, “Willie Nelson's San Diego concert defined, not defied, the passing of time. He turns 91 on April 29,” The San Diego Union-Tribune
Third Place - Kristen Nevarez Schweizer, Susanna Peredo Swap, “San Diego Opera Offers a Double Pour of Catharsis,” Vanguard Culture
Honorable Mention - Mario Sanguinet, Susanna Peredo Swap, “‘It’s been (over) one week’ since Semisonic and The Barenaked Ladies Performed at SDSU’s CalCoast Credit Union Open Air Theatre,” Vanguard Culture
Online and Daily newspapers: Reviews: Misc
First Place - Sande Lollis, “CATHRYN BEEKS: The After Times,” San Diego Troubadour
Online and Daily newspapers: Reviews: Theater
First Place - Cassiopeia Guthrie, “Review: La Jolla Playhouse's ‘Babbitt,’” San Diego Magazine
Second Place - ErinMarie Reiter, “‘FAT HAm’ at The Old Globe,” TalkTheatreToMe.com
Third Place - ErinMarie Reiter, “THE CURIOUS INCIDENT OF THE DOG IN THE NIGHT-TIME at CCAE Theatricals,” TalkTheatreToMe.com
Honorable Mention - Cassiopeia Guthrie, “‘The Angel Next Door’ Gets Laughs… But at Whose Expense?” sandiegostory.com
Online and Daily newspapers: Science/Technology/Biotech
First Place - Elisabeth Frausto, “Marine cloud brightening: Could it work to combat warming?” lajolla.ca
Second Place - Jamie Reno, “CAR T Comes of Age; Secondary Cancers Remain An Issue,” BreakingCancerNews.com
Third Place - Jamie Reno, “Physician, Researcher, Humanitarian, Friend: Dr. Gwen Nichols Is Changing The Way We Look At Blood Cancer,” BreakingCancerNews.com
Honorable Mention - Jamie Reno, “Insilico Medicine: An Ethical, Innovative, Forward-Thinking Artificial Intelligence (AI) Company For Cancer Patients,” BreakingCancerNews.com
Online and Daily newspapers: Series - Light Subject
First Place - Adam Behar, “San Diego surfing spots open up to everyone. But not everyone's happy about it,” The San Diego Reader
Second Place - Ryan Rizzuto, Chris Costa, “Galactic Produce from Down-to-Earth Farmer,” Edible San Diego Magazine
Third Place - Sande Lollis, “Will Stucky: Taking Up Space,” San Diego Troubadour
Honorable Mention - Alana Coons, Sande Lollis, Ann Jarmusch, Robin Lakin, “The Marstons: A California Story History Series,” Save Our Heritage Organisation
Online and Daily newspapers: Series - Serious Subject
First Place - Jakob McWhinney, “Educator Misconduct,” Voice of San Diego
Second Place - Miriam Raftery, “Water Conservation Garden struggles to thrive,” East County Magazine
Third Place - Jan Goldsmith, “Someone San Diego Should Know,” The San Diego Union-Tribune
Honorable Mention - Jamie Reno, “Someone Saved My Life Tonight,” BreakingCancerNews.com
Online and Daily newspapers: Sports
First Place - Bill Swank, “San Diegan’s 100th birthday brings back memories of Padres hero buried at ballpark site downtown,” The San Diego Union-Tribune
Second Place - Ken Stone, “Why Did Chula Vista Lose U.S. Paralympic Track and Field Trials to Miramar, Florida?,” Times of San Diego
Third Place - Jakob McWhinney, “Tennis vs. Pickleball: The Rivalry that Shook San Diego’s Courts,” Voice of San Diego
Honorable Mention - Gayle Lynn Falkenthal, “Crawford Beats Spence With Pound For Pound Performance,” NY Fights
Online and Daily newspapers: Travel - Domestic
First Place - Lisa Gipson, “Visit Dana Point: A Fun Family Getaway from San Diego,” San Diego Family Magazine
Second Place - Michelle Stansbury, “Inside the Golden Door in San Marcos, California,” Marie Claire
Online and Daily newspapers: Travel - International
First Place - Beth Wood, George Varga, “Montreal Jazz Festival a treat for music fans of multiple genres – and a bargain, with 150-plus free concerts,” The San Diego Union-Tribune
Second Place - Nicole Sours Larson, “Guadalupe Valley is a wine-lover’s paradise,” The San Diego Union-Tribune
Third Place - Lauren J. Mapp, “Visiting the Blue Lagoon, other Icelandic geothermal pools make for a relaxing Ring Road trip,” Off the Mapp
Online and Daily newspapers: Visual/Fine Art Reporting
First Place - Cornelia Feye, Susanna Peredo Swap, “In Blue Time - Tatiana Ortiz-Rubio's Exciting Interpretation of ‘Parable of the Sower,’” Vanguard Culture
Second Place - Rebecca Romani, Susanna Peredo Swap, “The Museum of Contemporary Art reaffirms its commitment to the Latinx community with compelling shows by Griselda Rosas and Celia Álvarez Muñoz,” Vanguard Culture
Third Place - Cathy Breslaw, Susanna Peredo Swap, “The Serene Artistic Symphony of Pat Steir’s ‘Painted Rain,’” Vanguard Culture
Honorable Mention - Cori Wilbur, Susanna Peredo Swap, “From ‘Cowboy Bebop’ to ‘My Hero Academia’: The Comic-Con Museum's New Exhibitions Show the Multigenerational Capacity of Anime,” Vanguard Culture
Online and Daily newspapers: Wildlife/Nature
First Place - Eston Ellis, Caitlin Hannah, Sara Maher, “Surprise! They’re Pollinators,” San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance Stories Site
Second Place - Lauren J. Mapp, Emily Alvarenga, “Hiking when it’s hot can quickly veer from fun to fatal. ‘They’re usually just not prepared,’” The San Diego Union-Tribune
Third Place - Elyan Shor, “Take a Breath,” San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance
Honorable Mention - Elisabeth Frausto, “Parroting presence: Chattering birds return to the coast,” lajolla.ca
Non-daily newspapers: Architecture and Design
First Place - Ray Huard, “New Tandem HQ Follows Circadian Rhythms,” San Diego Business Journal
Second Place - Ray Huard, “Housing Complex to Bloom in San Ysidro with Colorful Design,” San Diego Business Journal
Third Place - Ray Huard, “Los Patios' Colorful Design Earns Praise,” San Diego Business Journal
Non-daily newspapers: Business & Financial
First Place - Karen Pearlman, “NeoVolta Navigates NEM 3.0 Challenges, Opportunities,” San Diego Business Journal
Second Place - Brad Graves, “Cyber Concerns Have Contractors Reaching for Wallets,” San Diego Business Journal
Third Place - Brad Graves, “Stone Brewing Eyes $60M in Capital Spending,” San Diego Business Journal
Honorable Mention - Elizabeth Marie Himchak, “Rancho Bernardo couple created a growing fig jam business in their home,” Rancho Bernardo News Journal
Non-daily newspapers: Column - Light Subject
First Place - David Ross, “Curmudgeon: A principled politician,” Valley Roadrunner
Second Place - David Ross, “The Curmudgeon: What next, camps?,” Valley Roadrunner
Third Place - David Ross, “Curmudgeon: New ‘America Firsters’ much like the old ones,” Valley Roadrunner
Non-daily newspapers: Column - Serious Subject
First Place - Marsha Sutton, “Education Matters: Other people's money, other people's kids, Special education saga continues,” Del Mar Times
Second Place - Ricardo Márquez, “Ricardo Márquez Columns,” The Southern Cross
Third Place - David Ross, “Curmudgeon: Dead man’s party,” Escondido Times Advocate
Honorable Mention - David Ross, “Curmudgeon: What's wrong with both-sidesism,” Escondido Times Advocate
Non-daily newspapers: Education
First Place - Denis Grasska, “‘Realistic’ Training Strengthens School Safety,” The Southern Cross
Second Place - Elizabeth Marie Himchak, “New Poway Unified Transition Program class has special needs students cooking up new skills,” Rancho Bernardo News Journal
Third Place - Denis Grasska, “‘We’re Grateful to Have a Place to Call Home,’” The Southern Cross
Non-daily newspapers: Election Coverage
First Place - Julie Gallant, “Ramona Unified trustees weigh options for putting school facilities bond on November ballot,” Ramona Sentinal
Second Place - David Ross, “Michael Simon is not your typical Democrat candidate,” Escondido Times Advocate
Non-daily newspapers: Entertainment Reporting
First Place - Denis Grasska, “New Mouse Tale Weaves Faith and Fun for Kids,” The Southern Cross
Second Place - Elizabeth Marie Himchak, “Disneyland saxophonist to join Coastal Communities Concert Band for Poway show,” Rancho Bernardo News Journal
Non-daily newspapers: Environment
First Place - Karen Billing, “Solana Beach School District takes green new approach to lunch waste,” Solana Beach Sun
Second Place - Julie Gallant, “Poway joins program that gives owners acces to ranches and farms in emergencies,” Poway News Chieftain
Honorable Mention - Jess Levy, “What’s in your backyard?” Carlsbad Business Journal
Non-daily newspapers: Essay/Commentary/Opinion
First Place - Charles Carr, “‘Reinstate the Fairness Doctrine’ - ‘America’s best day’ - ‘Cable news is making us dumber (several dates),’” Valley Roadrunner
Second Place - David Ross, “Stuck in the middle,” Valley Roadrunner
Non-daily newspapers: Feature - Light Subject
First Place - Scott Hopkins, “Future Pointers have a chance to experience football,” Peninsula Beacon
Second Place - Denis Grasska, “Young Adults Dive into Books & Snorkels,” The Southern Cross
Third Place - Elizabeth Marie Himchak, “Mahjong, a game of skill and luck, has come to Rancho Bernardo Library,” Rancho Bernardo News Journal
Honorable Mention - Elizabeth Marie Himchak, “Rancho Bernardo couple shares their love of train village displays,” Rancho Bernardo News Journal
Non-daily newspapers: Feature - Serious Subject
First Place - Elizabeth Marie Himchak, “Poway Backpackers alumni gather to honor group’s late founder, Eddie Lindros,” Rancho Bernardo News Journal
Second Place - Adam Behar, “East Village sidewalk tents not dwindling...San Diego yellow vest workers start homeless clean-up at 17th,” The San Diego Reader
Third Place - Karen Billing, “Local teacher and coach’s 335-mile ‘Rungiving’ journey raises $10,000 for Monarch School,” Del Mar Times
Non-daily newspapers: Feature Layout Design
First Place - Shelly Pinomaki, “‘Rebuilder’ of Mission San Luis Rey Comes Home,” The Southern Cross
Second Place - Edgar Rodriguez, “Carlsbad Summer Strawberry Crawl,” Carlsbad Business Journal
Non-daily newspapers: Food
First Place - Catharine Kaufman, “Kitchen Shrink: If onion rings, answer it--nutritious vegetable transcends boundaries,” Del Mar Times
Second Place - Julie Gallant, “Poway winery has fresh take on industry -- barrel-aged wines with the flavors of bourbon, rum and tequila,” Poway News Chieftain
Third Place - Ray Huard, “Michelin Star Chef Opening North Park Eatery,” San Diego Business Journal
Honorable Mention - Jennifer Kastner, “Let’s Skip Dinner and Get Straight to the Pint,” San Diego Business Journal
Non-daily newspapers: Gardening
First Place - Regina Elling, “Ramona couple use maps and YouTube channel to put spotlight on local farmstands,” Ramona Sentinal
Second Place - Elizabeth Marie Himchak, “Expert tells Rancho Bernardo gardeners how to protect citrus trees from deadly disease,” Rancho Bernardo News Journal
Non-daily newspapers: General News
First Place - Elizabeth Marie Himchak, “RB Library helping patrons preserve their photos, videos,” Rancho Bernardo News Journal
Second Place - Luke Harold, “Board of Supervisors approves resolution in support of affordable housing at Del Mar Fairgrounds,” Del Mar Times
Non-daily newspapers: Health & Medicine
First Place - Jeff Clemetson, “The AI Doctor-Patient Experience,” San Diego Business Journal
Second Place - Julie Gallant, “Rick Daynes has reason to celebrate on Valentine's Day -- he helped save a life and has a new book,” Poway News Chieftain
Third Place - David Ross, “For woman with rare disorder SPS, life is like being in prison,” Valley Roadrunner
Non-daily newspapers: History
First Place - Denis Grasska, “‘Rebuilder’ of Mission San Luis Rey Comes Home,” The Southern Cross
Second Place - Marsha Sutton, “Education Matters: Son of Holocaust survivors speaks to Canyon Crest students,” Carmel Valley News
Third Place - Ray Huard, “Historic Building Spruced Up for Centennial,” San Diego Business Journal
Non-daily newspapers: Humor
First Place - Charles Carr, “The age-old old-age question,” Valley Roadrunner
Second Place - David Ross, “VCMWD limits water service to three days per week,” Valley Roadrunner
Third Place - David Ross, “Curmudgeon: Roll up your sleeves,” Escondido Times Advocate
Non-daily newspapers: Military
First Place - Karen Billing, “Rowe students show their gratitude for veterans at ‘Take Flight’ jogathon,” Rancho Santa Fe Review
Second Place - Brad Graves, “Aevex Delivers Phoenix Ghosts, Grows Revenue to $500M,” San Diego Business Journal
Non-daily newspapers: Multicultural
First Place - Adam Behar, “Filipinos and Mexicans struggle for power in National City...What district elections along ethnic lines produced,” The San Diego Reader
Second Place - Michael J. Williams, “Spread Love Not Hate: Leucadia elementary teacher pens children's book addressing the ‘n’ word,” Encinitas Advocate
Non-daily newspapers: Political/Government
First Place - Luke Harold, “A former Solana Beach council candidate agreed to pay $775K to settle a defamation case. Then he tried to back out,” Solana Beach Sun
Second Place - Julie Gallant, “Poway council OKs improved safety signs on Midland Road -- the site of two traffic fatalities,” Poway News Chieftain
Third Place - Julie Gallant, “Poway preparing to launch ban on homeless camping on Aug. 17,” Poway News Chieftain
Non-daily newspapers: Profile
First Place - Regina Elling, “Sharing his love of music helped Ramona musician to heal, help others,” Ramona Sentinal
Second Place - Regina Elling, “‘Old Man River’ tackles trash, water issues on neglected property in Ramona,” Ramona Sentinal
Third Place - Regina Elling, “Custom hats are a feather in the cap for Ramona designer Tara Holsapple,” Ramona Sentinal
Honorable Mention - Elizabeth Marie Himchak, “Rancho Bernardo Library’s new branch manager comes full-circle in her career,” Rancho Bernardo News Journal
Non-daily newspapers: Real Estate
First Place - Julie Gallant, “Poway City Council OKs Harmon Ranch housing development amid density, traffic concerns,” Poway News Chieftain
Second Place - Ray Huard, “Airport Landscaping Combines Whimsical and Practical,” San Diego Business Journal
Third Place - David Ross, “Record low inventory for real estate: What does it mean?” Escondido Times Advocate
Non-daily newspapers: Reviews: Restaurant
First Place - Nathalie Taylor, “‘Let’s Go Retro’ and Escape to the Past with Iconic San Diego County Fair Food!” Fallbrook Village News
Non-daily newspapers: Reviews: Theater
First Place - Alejandra Enciso-Dardashti, “La Jolla Playhouse Presents SUMO in a Co-Production with Ma-Yi Theater Company,” From Another Zero
Second Place - Lynne Friedmann, “The 39 Steps, New Village Arts Theatre, Carlsbad,” CultureVulture
Third Place - Alejandra Enciso-Dardashti, “"He is dead and gone lady./ He is dead and gone…,” From Another Zero
Honorable Mention - Lynne Friedmann, “Sense of Decency, North Coast Repertory Theatre, Solana Beach,” CultureVulture
Non-daily newspapers: Science/Technology/Biotech
First Place - Brad Graves, “Richard Sandstrom Looks Back on a Constructive Career,” San Diego Business Journal
Second Place - David Ross, “Terra-Gen reps answer planners' safety concerns, but satisfy few,” Valley Roadrunner
Third Place - Jennifer Kastner, “A New Wave of Boat Drones,” San Diego Business Journal
Non-daily newspapers: Series
First Place - Julie Gallant, “Poway Unified school board to evaluate superintendent after she is accused of threats and harassment,” Poway News Chieftain
Non-daily newspapers: Sports
First Place - Scott Hopkins, “Point Loma whips Mustangs before being bucked by Broncos,” Peninsula Beacon
Non-daily newspapers: Travel - International
First Place - Nathalie Taylor, “Budapest – A Delight on the Danube,” Fallbrook Village News
Non-daily newspapers: Visual/Fine Art Reporting
First Place - Julie Gallant, “Pottery artist brings history to life at Old Poway Park,” Poway News Chieftain
Second Place - Elizabeth Marie Himchak, “Rancho Bernardo Library art exhibit focuses on ‘A Night at the Opera,’” Rancho Bernardo News Journal
Non-daily newspapers: Wildlife/Nature
First Place - Regina Elling, “Ramona barn owl drama can be watched worldwide on livestream,” Ramona Sentinal
Second Place - David Ross, “Kiwanis club hears from state park interpreter,” Valley Roadrunner
Magazines: Architecture and Design
First Place - Mateo Hoke, “Nautilus Your Average House,” San Diego Magazine
Second Place - Andrea Naversen, David Harrison, “Star Struck,” Ranch and Coast Magazine
Third Place - Andrea Naversen, Mia Park, Vincent Knakal, Bob Stefanko, “Elevated, Everyday Style,” Ranch and Coast Magazine
Magazines: Business & Financial
First Place - Andrea Naversen, “Redux in the Ranch,” Ranch and Coast Magazine
Second Place - Paul Hormick, Lauren Di Matteo, “Intentionally Regenerative,” Edible San Diego Magazine
Third Place - Deanna Murphy, “Empowering Innovators,” Ranch and Coast Magazine
Magazines: Column - Light Subject
First Place - Nicolle Monico, “Unhinged, A Dating Series,” San Diego Magazine
Second Place - Elizabeth Hansen, “Detour Destinations,” Ranch and Coast Magazine
Third Place - Sara Gold, “The Bachlawrette,” San Diego County Bar Association
Magazines: Column - Serious Subject
First Place - Jody Lee Cates, Lisa Gipson, Sharon Bay, “Parenting with Purpose,” San Diego Family Magazine
Magazines: Drawing or Illustration
First Place - Amy Blandford, “Identity Theft,” San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance
Honorable Mention - Lulu Yueming Qu, “Winter Market Guide Issue 72,” Edible San Diego Magazine
Magazines: Editorial Cartoon
Honorable Mention - George Brewster, “Chatbot Dress for Success...Or Else,” San Diego County Bar Association
Magazines: Education
First Place - Jakob McWhinney, “Chronic Absenteeism Is the Real Problem,” Voice of San Diego
Second Place - Megan Woolsey, Lisa Gipson, Sharon Bay, “The 411 on Prop 28: How Will Your School Use its New Arts Funding?,” San Diego Family Magazine
Third Place - Audrey Mendivil, Lisa Gipson, Sharon Bay, “Play Math: Fun ways to support your kids (even if math isn't your favorite subject),” San Diego Family Magazine
Honorable Mention - Deanna Murphy, “High School Home Stretch,” Ranch and Coast Magazine
Magazines: Entertainment Reporting
First Place - Marcia Luttrell, “Maysa: On Her Own and On a Roll,” Smooth Jazz News Magazine
Second Place - George Nicolaidis, Jim Trageser, “When Jazz Helped Integrate San Diego,” San Diego Troubadour
Magazines: Environment
First Place - Bill Abrams, “Nature and "The Nat" — Celebrating a 150-Year Partnership,” Ranch and Coast Magazine
Second Place - Ryan Rizzuto, Deanna Sandoval, Katie Stokes, “Rescuing Food Never Tasted So Good,” Edible San Diego Magazine
Magazines: Essay/Commentary/Opinion
First Place - Danielle Allaire, “Seven Decades of Style,” San Diego Magazine
Magazines: Feature - Light Subject
First Place - Nicolle Monico, “The Future is Today,” San Diego Magazine
Second Place - Leorah Gavidor, Tanner Saraspe, Olivia Hayo, Jordan Kastlunger, “Families of Fish,” Edible San Diego Magazine
Third Place - Elizabeth Hansen, “Abundant Indulgence,” Ranch and Coast Magazine
Honorable Mention - Elizabeth Hansen, “It’s Santa Season in San Diego,” Ranch and Coast Magazine
Magazines: Feature - Serious Subject
First Place - Lauren Fish, Kristina Grifantini, “Scripps Research Centennial Feature,” Scripps Research
Second Place - Deanna Murphy, “Always a Time of Need: Shining a light on organizations that rise to the challenge across San Diego and beyond,” Ranch and Coast Magazine
Third Place - Jody Lee Cates, Lisa Gipson, Sharon Bay, “Make Time to Power Down to Strengthen Family Bonds,” San Diego Family Magazine
Honorable Mention - Vaani Chawla, “Attorney Asylee — The Story of Hamid Qazi,” San Diego County Bar Association
Magazines: Feature Layout Design
First Place - Scripps Research Marketing Communications Office, DesignAranda, “Scripps Research Centennial Feature,” Scripps Research
Second Place - Rachel Cobb, Thea Gurns, “A Lavendar Farm in Ramona,” San Diego Floral Association’s California Garden
Third Place - Samantha Lacy, “South Bay Proud,” San Diego Magazine
Honorable Mention - Chloe Pedersen, “Savor & Style,” Ranch and Coast Magazine
Magazines: Food
First Place - Michael Gardiner, “Chef Drew Deckman Dishes on His Road to Gastronomic Greatness,” Locale Magazine
Second Place - Mia Park, Vincent Knakal, Bob Stefanko, Chloe Pedersen, “Savor & Style,” Ranch and Coast Magazine
Third Place - Samantha Lacy, “The Earth Provides,” San Diego Magazine
Honorable Mention - Patrick Ballow, Luke Schmuecker, Katie Stokes, “The Appellations of San Diego Wine Country,” Edible San Diego Magazine
Magazines: Front Page Design
First Place - Maria Hesse, Katie Stokes, Tim Topalov, “Flow - Issue 74 Cover,” Edible San Diego Magazine
Second Place - Rik Thiesfeld, Michele Hancock, Lisa Gipson, Christianne Dowd, Sharon Bay, “October 2023 cover, San Diego Family Magazine,” San Diego Family Magazine
Third Place - Attiba Royster, “AI and The Law,” San Diego County Bar Association
Magazines: Gardening
First Place - Cindy Saylor, “Seed-Saving Renaissance,” Edible San Diego Magazine
Second Place - Rachel Cobb, Nancy Carol Carter, Thea Gurns, John Blocker, Lee Somerville, “Heritage Trees of Coronado,” San Diego Floral Association’s California Garden
Third Place - Rachel Cobb, Nancy Carol Carter, Thea Gurns, John Blocker, Lee Somerville, “Lavender Farming,” San Diego Floral Association’s California Garden
Honorable Mention - Rachel Cobb, Nancy Carol Carter, Thea Gurns, John Blocker, Lee Somerville, “Embracing the Mediterranean Climate,” San Diego Floral Association’s California Garden
Magazines: Headlines
First Place - Peggy Scott, “Scott Headline Compilation,” San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance Journal
Magazines: Health & Medicine
First Place - Jim Trageser, “Update on Child Hepatitis,” BioSupply Trends Quarterly
Second Place - Jackie Bryant, “An Exercise in Restraint,” San Diego Magazine
Third Place - Colin H. Richard, Lauren Di Matteo, “Collaborative Conservation,” Edible San Diego Magazine
Magazines: History
First Place - Peggy Scott, “Belle Benchley: The Trailblazing ‘Zoo Lady,’” San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance Journal
Second Place - Andrea Naversen, David Harrison, “Salvaging San Diego’s History,” Ranch and Coast Magazine
Third Place - Martin Lindsay, “Seafood City,” Edible San Diego Magazine
Honorable Mention - David Ross, “A school built by local labor still serves the community,” Valley Magazine
Magazines: Humor
First Place - Cole Novak, “You are Where You Surf,” San Diego Magazine
Magazines: Military
First Place - María José Durán, “On the Food Lines,” San Diego Magazine
Second Place - Bill Abrams, “A Steadfast Mission,” Ranch and Coast Magazine
Third Place - Melissa Johnson, “Was There Honor in My Service?,” San Diego County Bar Association
Honorable Mention - Bob Stefanko, Bill Abrams, “Looking Forward to 103,” Ranch and Coast Magazine
Magazines: Multicultural
First Place - Amelia Rodriguez, “Horse Girls,” San Diego Magazine
Second Place - Colin Richards, “Restoring Water Ways,” Edible San Diego Magazine
Magazines: Profile
First Place - Mateo Hoke, “Jordan Howlett’s Secret Sauce,” San Diego Magazine
Second Place - George W. Brewster, “David Gill Marks 50,” San Diego County Bar Association
Third Place - Jim Trageser, “Arthur Adams: Six Decades of Blues,” Living Blues
Honorable Mention - Lauren Di Matteo, Beth Demmon, “All Eyes on Claudette,” Edible San Diego Magazine
Magazines: Public Service/Consumer Advocacy
First Place - Anne Malinoski, Lisa Gipson, Sharon Bay, “The 411 on IEP Meetings: How to prepare more and stress less,” Flourishing Families
Second Place - Cole Novak, “Ask an Expert: 7 Tips to Buying Your First Acoustic Guitar,” San Diego Magazine
Third Place - Wendy Smith, Lisa Gipson, Sharon Bay, “Building a Bridge: The when and how of life planning,” Flourishing Families
Magazines: Reviews: Misc
First Place - Jim Trageser, “The Count Basie Orchestra: Swings the Blues!” Living Blues
Second Place - Jim Trageser, “Ed Croft: Have Mersey,” San Diego Troubadour
Magazines: Reviews: Restaurant
First Place - Troy Johnson, “Home is Where the Restaurant Is,” San Diego Magazine
Second Place - Brandon Hernández, Vincent Knakal, “Room at the Top,” Ranch and Coast Magazine
Magazines: Science/Technology/Biotech
First Place - Steve Murray, “Signing Up for Science,” StarDate Magazine
Second Place - Roberto Camacho, “Using Drones to Remember,” San Diego Magazine
Third Place - Sandi Schwartz, Lisa Gipson, Sharon Bay, “How to Raise Scientifically Literate Kids,” San Diego Family Magazine
Magazines: Series
First Place - Sharon Bay, Adrienne Sigeti, Lisa Gipson, “10 Ways to Have an Epic Summer, parts 1 & 2,” San Diego Family Magazine
Second Place - Andrea Naversen, Vincent Knakal, Bob Stefanko, Mia Park, Chloe Pedersen, “At Home with Richard and Jazmin Blais: The Culinary Couple Continues to Blaze Trails,” Ranch and Coast Magazine
Third Place - Deanna Murphy, Andrea Naversen, Mia Park, Chloe Pedersen, “New, Now, Next,” Ranch and Coast Magazine
Honorable Mention - Beth Demmon, “Food News,” San Diego Magazine
Magazines: Sports
First Place - Deanna Murphy, “A Triumphant Return to Montezuma Mesa,” Ranch and Coast Magazine
Second Place - Linda St.Angelo Burritt, Lisa Gipson, Sharon Bay, “Sports Are for Everyone: From inclusive to special programs, San Diego has it all,” Flourishing Families
Magazines: Travel - Domestic
First Place - Deanna Murphy, “Western Elegance: The luxurious Green O is a refined haven in rural Montana,” Ranch and Coast Magazine
Second Place - Elizabeth Hansen, “Move / Nourish / Rest,” Ranch and Coast Magazine
Third Place - Ron Donoho, “A Toast to Temecula Valley,” Ranch and Coast Magazine
Honorable Mention - Elizabeth Hansen, “Oregon's Columbia River,” Ranch and Coast Magazine
Magazines: Travel - International
First Place - Deanna Murphy, “An Incomparable Sanctuary in Punta Mita,” Ranch and Coast Magazine
Second Place - Tom Gable, “Rio de Janeiro -- Beyond Beaches and Carnival,” Wine Dine & Travel Magazine
Third Place - Mara Altman, “Hecho a Mano,” San Diego Magazine
Magazines: Visual/Fine Art Reporting
First Place - Amelia Rodriguez, “The Trouble with Trash Lamb,” San Diego Magazine
Second Place - Janeen Lewis, Lisa Gipson, Sharon Bay, “Maker-Minded: Raising DIY Kids,” San Diego Family Magazine
Magazines: Wildlife/Nature
First Place - Peggy Scott, “To the Rescue: Saving Wildlife, One Animal and Plant at a Time,” San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance Journal
Second Place - Katie Stokes, Maria Hesse, Julie Pendray, Luke Schmuecker, “A Living Landscape,” Edible San Diego Magazine
Third Place - Joe Yogerst, “What’s the Difference Between Bison and Buffalo?” Good Nature
Photography - Still: Breaking News
First Place - Chris Stone, “Victim of San Diego flooding,” Times of San Diego
Photography - Still: Feature - Light Subject
First Place - John Gastaldo, “Moving Feast,” The Southern Cross
Second Place - Lauren Di Matteo, “From Macro to Micro and Back,” Edible San Diego Magazine
Third Place - Elizabeth Hansen, “On the Fruit Loop, Hope Ranch Lavender Farm provides a good view of Mount Hood,” Ranch and Coast Magazine
Honorable Mention - Chris Stone, “Baton twirlers at La Jolla Christmas Parade,” Times of San Diego
Photography - Still: Feature - Serious Subject
First Place - Chris Stone, “King Tides at La Jolla Cove,” Times of San Diego
Photography - Still: News
First Place - Chris Stone, “Artillery salute at USS Canley commissioning,” Times of San Diego
Second Place - Chris Stone, “Waiting for reopening of OB Pier,” Times of San Diego
Third Place - David Maung, “Auxiliary Bishops’ Ordination,” The Southern Cross
Photography - Still: Photo Essay
First Place - Chris Stone, “Navy SEALs on Honor Flight San Diego,” Times of San Diego
Second Place - David Maung, “Auxiliary Bishops’ Ordination,” The Southern Cross
Third Place - Luke Schmuecker, “Hurry Up and Wait,” Edible San Diego Magazine
Honorable Mention - David Maung, “Academic Decathlon,” The Southern Cross
Photography - Still: Portrait
First Place - Chris Stone, “Sha’Carri Richardson at start of 100,” Times of San Diego
Second Place - Chris Stone, “Noah Lyles at start of 100,” Times of San Diego
Third Place - Chris Stone, “Megan Rapinoe’s final season,” Times of San Diego
Honorable Mention - Thom Vollenweider, “Blindfolded,” The San Diego Union-Tribune
Photography - Still: Sports
First Place - Chris Stone, “Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone Stands Alone as Icon,” Times of San Diego
Second Place - Scott Hopkins, “Pointer catcher puts the tag on a Cathedral Catholic baserunner,” Peninsula Beacon
Third Place - P.J. Panebianco, “Aztecs win final game of Brady Hoke’s career and reclaim Old Oil Can,” East Village Times
Honorable Mention - Scott Hopkins, “Pointer Ryan Burdine out-leaps a defender for touchdown catch,” Peninsula Beacon
Photography - Video: Feature - Light Subject
First Place - Chris Stone, “King tides, majestic birds at La Jolla Cove,” Times of San Diego
Second Place - Thom Vollenweider, “The Birds And The Bees,” Thom Vollenweider
Third Place - Brendan Cleak, Sinjun Balabanoff, “Graduation Day 2024 | Scripps Research,” Scripps Research
Honorable Mention - Juliette Vara, Michael Saucedo, “Running for ALS Cure,” KSWB Fox 5
Photography - Video: Feature - Serious Subject
First Place - Juliette Vara, Michael Saucedo, “Mountain Lion in Oceanside,” KSWB Fox 5
Second Place - Brendan Cleak, Sinjun Balabanoff, “The Next 100 Years of Scripps Research: A Century of Science Changing Life,” Scripps Research
Third Place - Chris Stone, “Sunset on Vietnam Veterans Memorial replica,” Times of San Diego
Photography - Video: News
First Place - Kasia Gregorczyk, Michael Saucedo, “Lifeguards Fire Boat,” KSWB Fox 5
Second Place - Ken Stone, Chris Stone, “Vietnam-era Navy SEALs homecoming in San Diego,” Times of San Diego
Third Place - Chris Stone, “Snapdragon Streaker Exposed — Jacob T. Parker Eluded Security at Man U Match,” Times of San Diego
Photography - Video: Photo Essay
First Place - Michael Saucedo, “Last Minute Valentine’s Day Shopping,” KSWB Fox 5
Second Place - Chris Stone, “Long jump diva Tara Davis-Woodhall puts on show,” Times of San Diego
Third Place - Chris Stone, “Sha’Carri, Noah, Sydney sizzle in Olympic Trials prelims,” Times of San Diego
Honorable Mention - Chris Stone, “Up-Close at the U.S. Olympic Trials,” Times of San Diego
Photography - Video: Portrait
First Place - Sarah Alegre, Michael Saucedo, “Micro Kitchens,” KSWB Fox 5
Photography - Video: Sports
First Place - Ken Stone, “Jay Scriven wins national sumo heavyweight title,” Times of San Diego
Second Place - Troy Hirsch, Michael Saucedo, “Padres Fantasy Camp Frank Shoes,” KSWB Fox 5
Radio/Podcast: Audio Editing
First Place - Dave Drexler, “The Best of ‘Inside Art’ 2023,” KSDS-FM
Second Place - Phil Farrar, Charles Watson, “JIMMY BUFFETT: ‘EVERLASTING ESCAPE TO PARADISE,’” KOGO-AM
Radio/Podcast: Breaking News
First Place - Lucinda Kay, Jon Fink, Kevin Finnerty, Jan Darwin, “Hurricane Hilary Coverage,” KOGO-AM
Radio/Podcast: Enterprise/Investigative Reporting
First Place - Alexander Nguyen, “Students privacy rights vs. parental notifications — legally speaking, it’s complicated,” KPBS-FM
Radio/Podcast: Feature
First Place - Phil Farrar, “Jimmy Buffet: ‘Everlasting Escape to Paradise,’” KOGO-AM
Second Place - Alexander Nguyen, “New technology helping San Diego researchers study elusive rattlesnake,” KPBS-FM
Radio/Podcast: General News Story
First Place - Jack Cronin, “Hurricane Hilary Reporting,” KOGO-AM
Radio/Podcast: Podcast
First Place - Eileen Gaffen, “The Gift of Perspective: Wisdom Gained from Losing a Leg and Two Lungs,” Women Lead Radio
Second Place - Lauren Fish, Melissa Suran, “Science Changing Life Podcast Season 2024,” Scripps Research
Third Place - Bret Schanzenbach, Darcy Wolfe, DifMix, “Episode 115 of Carlsbad: People, Purpose, and Impact: Flight Path to Finance: Darcy’s Journey,” Carlsbad: People, Purpose, and Impact
Radio/Podcast: Specialty Reporting - Series
First Place - Phil Farrar, “America's Air Show,” KOGO-AM
Radio/Podcast: Specialty Reporting - single report
First Place - Phil Farrar, “America’s Air Show,” KOGO-AM
Radio/Podcast: Talk/Interview/Call-in Program
First Place - Andrew Bracken, Scott Rodd, Lara McCaffrey, “KPBS Roundtable,” KPBS-FM
Second Place - Dave Drexler, “The Best of ‘Inside Art’ 2023,” KSDS-FM
Third Place - Joseph Nelson, “‘Shotgun Tom Kelly’ The Producer Joe Show with Joe Nelson - Episode 121 - June 27, 2024,” The Producer Joe Show with Joe Nelson
Honorable Mention - Joseph Nelson, “‘Batman Producer Michael Uslan’ The Producer Joe Show with Joe Nelson - Episode 116 - June 10, 2024,” The Producer Joe Show with Joe Nelson
Television/Online Video: Breaking News
First Place - Alexander Nguyen, Matthew Bowler, “San Diegans join in global protests to end war in Gaza,” KPBS-TV
Second Place - Elizabeth Alvarez, David Pradel, “POLICE CLEAR ‘GAZA SOLIDARITY’ ENCAMPMENT AT UC SAN DIEGO,” KSWB Fox 5
Television/Online Video: Community Service/Public Affairs Report
First Place - J W August, Amita Sharma, David Washburn, “Bill aims to nix California requirement that hospitals report abuse suspicions to police,” KPBS-TV
Television/Online Video: Documentary
First Place - Mannix Gonzalez, Samuel Borden, Kyra Merryman “Rebuild Mt. Empire High,” Mt. Empire High School and Institute for Public Strategies
Television/Online Video: Interview/Talk Show
First Place - Alejandra Enciso-Dardashti, Melinda Lopez, Joel Perez, “Talking STIR with Melinda Lopez and Joel Perez,” From Another Zero-YouTube Channel
Second Place - Alejandra Enciso-Dardashti, Bianca Marroquin, “Bilingual English-Spanish Interview with Bianca Marroquín,” From Another Zero-YouTube Channel
Third Place - Alejandra Enciso-Dardashti, Eric Keen-Louie, “Eric Keen-Louie in 2024 as Artistic Producing Director,” From Another Zero
Television/Online Video: Investigative Reporting: Single Report
First Place - J W August, Amita Sharma, David Washburn, “Citizen brings to light questionable spending in Ramona cemetery district,” KPBS-TV
Television/Online Video: Live Report
First Place - Elizabeth Alvarez, David Pradel, “COUNTY UPDATE ON FLOOD SERVICES AFTER POWERFUL STORM HITS SOUTHCREST,” KSWB Fox 5
Second Place - Elizabeth Alvarez, David Pradel, Khrystyne Valena, “OCEAN BEACH CLIFF RESCUE,” KSWB Fox 5
Third Place - Elizabeth Alvarez, David Pradel, “FAMILY BEGINS TO CLEAN UP HOME AFTER DEVASTATING FLOODING IN SOUTHCREST,” KSWB Fox 5
Television/Online Video: News Feature Pre Produced
First Place - Maria Villalobos, “Converted school bus serves migrant children in Tijuana,” ABC News
Second Place - Brenda Gregorio Nieto, “Four friends help revive Carlsbad’s beloved pizza parlor after pandemic,” NBC 7/39
Third Place - Christelle Koumoué, Sasha Bryhadyr, “Balloon Magic,” KSWB Fox 5
Honorable Mention - Alexander Nguyen, Carlos Castillo, “New technology helping San Diego researchers study elusive rattlesnake,” KPBS-TV
Television/Online Video: News Feature Same Day
First Place - Sarah Alegre, Michael Saucedo, “Restaurants Break ins,” KSWB Fox 5
Second Place - Alexander Nguyen, Carolyne Corelis, “New firefighting tool unveils in North County as Wildfire Awareness Month starts,” KPBS-TV
Television/Online Video: Service Program
First Place - Michelle Ciccarelli-Lerach, Eden Hughes, Christina Ng, Jane Bills, “Generation Regeneration: Women Forging Change,” University of California Television (UCTV)
Second Place - Michelle Ciccarelli-Lerach, Eden Hughes, Christina Ng, Jane Bills, Eileen Gregory, “At the Water’s Edge: Capturing and Conserving Our Most Precious Resource,” University of California Television (UCTV)
Television/Online Video: Specialty Reporting: Series
First Place - Adam Racusin, Steve Reusch, Amol Brown, Raymond Higgins, “The Cost of Care,” KGTV-TV
Second Place - Jeremy Sazon, Emily Heft, Troy Johnson, “SDM’s Guide to Food & Drink,” San Diego Magazine
Television/Online Video: Specialty Reporting: Single Report
First Place - Phil Blauer, Michael Saucedo, “Midway Education,” KSWB Fox 5
Second Place - Alexander Nguyen, Carolyne Corelis, “Time's ticking for San Diego Diaper Bank Program,” KPBS-TV
Third Place - Andrew Luria, “Healing In Harmony,” KSWB Fox 5
Honorable Mention - Andrew Luria, Ruby Chen, Aaron Eudaley, Neil Burgess, “The United Sounds of America,” KSWB Fox 5
Television/Online Video: Sports Reporting
First Place - Andrew Luria, Megan Healy, Julian Del Gaudio, Zara Barker, Jaime Chambers, “News Team Assemble,” KSWB Fox 5
Second Place - Allison Edmonds, Joaquin Duncan, “Gwynn lineage continues,” KUSI-TV
Third Place - Troy Hirsch, Michael Saucedo, “Padres Fantasy Camp Cisneros,” KSWB Fox 5
Honorable Mention - Allison Edmonds, Joaquin Duncan, “Breaking Boards and Bounds,” KUSI-TV
Television/Online Video: Video Editing
First Place - Kasia Gregorczyk, Michael Saucedo, “Snapdragon Bowl Bash 2023,” KSWB Fox 5
Second Place - David Pradel, “SAN DIEGO FIRE DEPARTMENT KICKS OFF TOYS FOR TOTS DRIVE," KSWB Fox 5
Third Place - Samuel Borden, Mannix Gonzalez, “Rebuild Mt. Empire High,” Mt. Empire High School and Institute for Public Strategies online
Television/Online Video: Writing Feature
First Place - Enedina Cisneros, Kimberly Hunt, Gerald Labrador, “San Diego Honors ‘El Padrecito del Barrio,’” KGTV-TV
Second Place - Andrew Luria, “Healing In Harmony,” KSWB Fox 5
Third Place - Andrew Luria, “The United Sounds of America,” KSWB Fox 5
Websites: Blog - Topic Based
First Place - Tom Gable, “Exploring the World of Sauvignon Blanc,” San Diego Wine Guru
Second Place - Cassiopeia Guthrie, “On The Craft Reviews,” On The Craft
Third Place - Lauren J. Mapp, “Tides & Tacos Food and Beverage Blog,” Tides & Tacos
Websites: Blog by Corporation or Group
First Place - Carl Nettleton, Shauna Buffington, “The Transition Newsletter - reporting on the people and progress in solving the ocean plastic crisis,” OpenOceans Global
Websites: Blog for/by journalists
First Place - Carl Nettleton, “The Nett Report - navigating life in a changing world,” Substack
Websites: Entertainment Site
First Place - Staff, “San Diego Zoo Wildlife Explorers website,” San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance
Second Place - Susanna Peredo Swap, Rob Marlbrough, “Vanguard Culture,” Vanguard Culture
Third Place - Mark Burgess, Ken Herman, Bill Eadie, Kris Eitland, Welton Jones, “sandiegostory.com by Critics LLC,” sandiegostory.com
Websites: General Interest Site
First Place - Staff, “San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance Stories Site,” San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance
Second Place - Maggie Espinosa, “TravelWithMaggie.com website,” TravelWithMaggie.com
Third Place - Chloe Pedersen, Anya Shah, Mia Park, “Ranchandcoast.com,” ranchandcoast.com
Websites: News Site
First Place - Chris Jennewein, Times of San Diego Team, “Best San Diego News Website,” Times of San Diego
Second Place - Barry M. Bloom, “LUIS ARRÁEZ’S THROWBACK SKILLSET NO LONGER VALUED IN MODERN MLB,” Sportico
Third Place - Caron Golden, “Keto for Kids? Why Experts Are Still Nervous,” Diabetes Daily
Honorable Mention - Ron Donoho, “The San Diego Sun,” The San Diego Sun
Websites: Overall Use of Design
First Place - inewsource team, “inewsource UX and multimedia design,” inewsource.org
Second Place - Faith Hark, John McDonagh, Anna Andersen, Desi McCoy, Lauren Fish, “Scripps Research Centennial Website,” Scripps Research
Third Place - Phil Enzler, Camila Enzler, Chloe Pedersen, Bob Stefanko, Mia Park, “Ranchandcoast.com,” ranchandcoast.com
Websites: Public Service or Consumer Advocacy Site
First Place - Barbara Medina, Blaise Nauyokas, “DAnewsCenter.com,” San Diego County District Attorney's Office
PR, PIO and Trade publications: Annual Report
First Place - Staff, “San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance 2023 Annual Report, ‘Expertise with Impact,’” San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance
Second Place - Sarah Blanch, Samuel Borden, Institute for Public Strategies, “2023 Impact Report - Institute for Public Strategies,” Institute for Public Strategies
Third Place - Tanya Sierra, “2023 San Diego County District Attorney Annual Report,” San Diego County District Attorney’s Office
Honorable Mention - Jennifer Whitelaw, Sarah Austin, Teresa Warren, “Endeavor Bank 2023 Annual Report,” Endeavor Bank
PR, PIO and Trade publications: Association/Member publication
First Place - Staff, “San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance Journal,” San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance
Second Place - Staff, “Wild Connections 2023 vol. 2,” San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance
PR, PIO and Trade publications: General Writing for External Publication
First Place - Ann Marie Price, Connor Christiansen, Denise Scatena, “Focus on Your Service, Not Your Finances–How Military Families Can Make Financial Well-being a Priority in 2024,” The San Diego Union-Tribune
Second Place - Denise Nix, “A Non-Exhaustive List of Reasons Why You Won’t Cut It as a CFO,” Going Concern
Third Place - Nicole Vargas, “City College student-athletes make holidays magic at 12th Annual Shop With a Jock,” sdcityknights.com
Honorable Mention - Tanya Sierra, “Deception Behind the Computer Screen: Phishing, Tech and Banking Scams,” East County Californian
PR, PIO and Trade publications: General Writing for Internal Publication
First Place - Rick Griffin, “Realtors Trade Group’s Blog: Monthly Housing Economic Report,” Pacific Southwest Association of Realtors
Second Place - Rick Griffin, “Realtors Trade Group’s Blog: Monthly Housing Economic Report,” Pacific Southwest Association of Realtors
Third Place - Rick Griffin, “Realtors Trade Group’s Blog: Monthly Housing Economic Report,” Pacific Southwest Association of Realtors
Honorable Mention - Jennifer Whitelaw, “Welcome, Andrew and Emma! One Family’s Surrogacy Journey,” Platt/Whitelaw Architects Blog Site
PR, PIO and Trade publications: In-house or employee publications.
First Place - Samuel Borden, Brittany Hunsinger, Meredith Gibson, Paul Levikow, Institute for Public Strategies, “Institute for Public Strategies iNewsletter,” Institute for Public Strategies
Second Place - Alex Heckman, Connor Christiansen, “Scatena Daniels Edges Out Major Healthcare Organizations for Top Honors at Health Care Communicators of Southern California’s Finest Awards,” Scatena Daniels Communications Blog ("Headlines")
Third Place - Alex Heckman, Connor Christiansen, “Scatena Daniels Scores National PRSA ‘Bronze Anvil’ Award for Nonprofit Media Relations,” Scatena Daniels Communications Blog ("Headlines")
Honorable Mention - Sammi Beatrice, Connor Christiansen, “A Beginner’s Guide to Social Media Management,” Scatena Daniels Communications Blog ("Headlines")
PR, PIO and Trade publications: Newsletter
First Place - Gillian Flynn, Chloe Pedersen, “Ranch & Coast Living,” Ranch and Coast Magazine
Second Place - Staff, “Notes from the Field 2024 No. 5; Our Home Is Their Home,” San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance
Third Place - Samuel Borden, Brittany Hunsinger, Meredith Gibson, Paul Levikow, Institute for Public Strategies, “PICture This - The Partners in Change Newsletter by Institute for Public Strategies,” Institute for Public Strategies
Honorable Mention - Chloe Pedersen, Mia Park, “New, Now, Next,” Ranch and Coast Magazine
PR, PIO and Trade publications: Press Release Writing - Light Subject
First Place - Annie Pierce, Mari Chosich, “As Pickleball’s Popularity Surges, Injuries Are Also on the Rise,” UC San Diego Today
PR, PIO and Trade publications: Press Release Writing - Serious Subject
First Place - Annie Pierce, “UC San Diego Health among First in Nation to Perform Regenerative Brain Cell Procedure for Epilepsy,” University of California
Second Place - Geneva Gámez, Denise Scatena, “Wakeland Housing and Development Corporation and County of San Diego Achieve Milestone with Grand-Opening of Levant Senior Cottages, the First Affordable Housing Property Built on Repurposed County-owned Land,” Scatena Daniels Communications
Third Place - Barbara Medina, “DA Honors 6 Local Heroes at Inspiring ‘Citizens of Courage’ Awards,” San Diego County District Attorney’s Office
Honorable Mention - Geneva Gámez, Denise Scatena, “New Public Art Installation Gives Voice to City Heights Refugee Residents,” Scatena Daniels Communications
PR, PIO and Trade publications: Special interest or one-time publications.
First Place - Georgeanne Irvine, “Amazing Omeo: A Baby Koala’s True Story of Survival,” San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance Press
Second Place - Michael Brown, Jen Barsell, Brianne Mundy Page, Danny Palomino, Philip Gibbons, “‘Port of Firsts” - Explaining How the Port is Improving Air Quality by Being the First to Deploy New Technology,” Special series of publications printed and distributed at events in San Diego County
Third Place - Jayoung Mackenzie, Sara Maher, Caitlin Hannah, Ellie McMillan, “Special Edition Notes From the Field, ‘Leap Day Legends,’” San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance
Honorable Mention - Ellie McMillan, Caitlin Hannah, Sara Maher, “A Momentous Hatch,” San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance Stories Site
PR, PIO and Trade publications: Video
First Place - Barbara Medina, Dorian Iribe, “Citizens of Courage 2024,” San Diego County District Attorney’s Office
Second Place - Annie Pierce, Alethea Go, “Living Liver Transplant Reignites Patient’s Life,” UC San Diego Today
Third Place - Gayle Lynn Falkenthal, Kimberly Jenks, Adam McCain, “John’s Story,” Serving Seniors
COLLEGE MEDIA
College Print or Online: Best College Newspaper
First Place - The Sun Staff, “The Southwestern College Sun,” The Southwestern College Sun
Second Place - City Times Media Staff, “City Times Media | sdcitytimes.com,” City Times Media
Third Place - Mesa Press Staff, “The Mesa Press,” The Mesa Press
College Print or Online: Best Magazine
First Place - El Sol Staff, “El Sol Magazine XIV,” El Sol Magazine
College Print or Online: Column
First Place - Diego Higuera, “Column Writing,” The Southwestern College Sun
Second Place - Zeke Watson, “Column Writing,” The Southwestern College Sun
College Print or Online: Cover Design - Newspaper
First Place - Nicolette Monique Luna, Alexa Lima, Alfonso Julían Camacho, Ivan Medida, “All Heaven Breaking Loose,” The Southwestern College Sun / El Sol Magazine
Second Place - City Times Staff, “City Times, 2024 Commencement Edition,” City Times Media
Third Place - Morgan Jacobson, Juan H. Estrada, Julio Rodriguez, Yanelli Z. Robles, Emily Ingco, “Boyhood Dream Come True,” The Southwestern College Sun
College Print or Online: Drawing- Illustration or Cartoon
First Place - Carla Labto, “Free Speech on the Ropes,” The Southwestern College Sun/El Sol Magazine
Second Place - Emily Esparza, “Satan’s Sandbox,” The Southwestern College Sun
Third Place - Carla Labto, “Native American Students Advocate For Missing Women,” The Southwestern College Sun
College Print or Online: Feature
First Place - Nicolette Monique Luna, “Southwestern Superman JMS," The Southwestern College Sun
Second Place - Elizabeth (Jazlyn) Dieguez, “Pawsitive impact: How college students and foster pets can support each other in San Diego,” SDSU School of Journalism
Third Place - Brittany Cruz-Fejeran, “Ancestral roots, a bridge to new ambitions: San Diego CHamorus reclaim indigenous identity despite fears of imposter syndrome,” SDSU School of Journalism
College Print or Online: Feature Layout Design
First Place - Iyarie Murguia, “Century Of Sewage,” The Southwestern College Sun
College Print or Online: Investigative
First Place - Iyarie Murguia, “Century Of Sewage,” The Southwestern College Sun
Second Place - Marco Guajardo, “SDCCD chancellor finalist receives votes of no confidence from two Los Rios community colleges,” City Times Media
Third Place - Danny Straus, “Series of break-ins at City College gym, sports fields pulling resources from athletics budget,” City Times Media
College Print or Online: News
First Place - Keila Menjivar Zamora, Marco Guajardo, Bailey Kohnen, Nadia Lavin, Vince Outlaw Susana Serrano, “City College students, faculty among ‘peaceful’ protesters at campus walkout (with video and gallery),” City Times Media
Second Place - Camila A. Gonzalez, “Humanitarian Was Never Down In The Dumps,” The Southwestern College Sun / El Sol Magazine
Third Place - Mesa Press Staff, “SD Police shoot, kill man on Mesa campus,” The Mesa Press
College Print or Online: Opinion/Commentary/Opinion
First Place - Luis Zavala, “Counselor Shortage Plagues Students,” The Southwestern College Sun
Second Place - Alexa Lima, “Gun Violence Steals Young Americans' Futures And Dreams,” The Southwestern College Sun
Third Place - Liliana Anguiano, “Gutting Free Speech Is A Dangerous Idea,” The Southwestern College Sun / El Sol Magazine
College Print or Online: Photography - Arts
First Place - Oliver Reed, “Deja Re performs to Jennifer Lopez’s Super Bowl mashup,” City Times Media
Second Place - Katerina Portela, “Loyal hip-hop fans come together in Los Angeles for 10th year of Rolling Loud,” The Daily Aztec
Third Place - Camila A. Gonzalez, “‘Good Day To Be An Indian,’” The Southwestern College Sun
College Print or Online: Photography - News
First Place - Sean Monney, “Members of M.E.Ch.A de City College stand together,” City Times Media
Second Place - Yanelli Z. Robles, “Hi Mom!” The Southwestern College Sun
Third Place - Yanelli Z. Robles, “COLA Demands Bubble Over As SCEA Seeks Raise,” The Southwestern College Sun
College Print or Online: Photography - Sports
First Place - Danny Straus, “Knight forward Alex Crawford goes up for a dunk,” City Times Media
Second Place - Camila A. Gonzalez, “Winless And Wonderful,” The Southwestern College Sun
Third Place - Yanelli Z. Robles, “Quick Six,” The Southwestern College Sun / El Sol Magazine
College Print or Online: Reviews
First Place - Anahy J. Gutierrez, “‘Mugre’ A Gratuitous, Machismo, Sexist Mess Of A Play,” The Southwestern College Sun
Second Place - Miguel Nicolas, “¡Viva El Mejor Mariachi!,” The Southwestern College Sun
Third Place - Valeryah Lara-Urrea, Yanelli Z. Robles, “Satan's Sandbox,” The Southwestern College Sun
College Print or Online: Sports
First Place - Juan H. Estrada, Yanelli Z. Robles, “Boyhood Dream Come True,” The Southwestern College Sun / El Sol Magazine
Second Place - Juan H. Estrada, “Net Results,” The Southwestern College Sun / El Sol Magazine
Third Place - Emily Ingco, “Hardwood Superheroes,” The Southwestern College Sun
College Radio/Podcast: Feature Reporting
First Place - Joe Panek, “PODCAST: Late growth spurt, persistence leads to NCAA Division I scholarship for City College baseball player,” City Times Media
College Radio/Podcast: Sports Reporting
First Place - Joe Panek, Vince Outlaw, “San Diego City men's basketball takes on Allan Hancock for spot in 3C2A Elite Eight,” City Times Media
College TV: Feature Reporting
First Place - Elizabeth (Jazlyn) Dieguez, “Finding Beck’s Forever Home,” SDSU School of Journalism
Second Place - Susana Serrano, “Trans Excellence Drag Show returns to City College,” City Times Media
College TV: Newscast
First Place - Roxy Vieira, Benjamin Guadarrama, Veronica Springer, CTTV Staff, “VIDEO: Newscene’s latest episode covers campus Gaza protests, FAFSA updates,” City Times Media | CTTV
College TV: Sports Reporting
First Place - Joe Panek, Vince Outlaw, “San Diego City men’s basketball takes on Allan Hancock for spot in 3C2A Elite Eight,” City Times Media
SPECIAL AWARDS
Harold Keen Award for Outstanding Contribution in Journalism
Given to the journalist who has, throughout his/her career, gone above and beyond standard practices
for the sake of fairness and truth telling.
Amita Sharma
KPBS
Andy Mace Award for Outstanding Contribution in Public Relations
Given to a PR practitioner who, over the course of his or her career, has exemplified fairness and integrity, and has effectively disseminated the truth to concerned publics.
Peter MacCracken
Strategic Communications
Andy Mace Award for Outstanding Contribution in Public Relations
Given to a PR practitioner who, over the course of his or her career, has exemplified fairness and integrity, and has effectively disseminated the truth to concerned publics.
Dr. Kaye Sweetser, APR+M, Fellow PRSA
San Diego State University
Jim Reiman Enlightened Media Management Award
Goes to the boss or supervisor who “gets it” when it comes to managing information teams.
Lora Cicalo
The San Diego Union-Tribune
Terry Williams Directors Award
Given to a group or individual who has made a significant and lasting impact on the media industry
in our region.
Jerry McCormick
San Diego Association of Black Journalists
SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS
This annual competition is open to students in San Diego County universities and community colleges or permanent residents of San Diego County attending college elsewhere.
Frank Saldana Memorial Scholarship
In memory of the longtime San Diego Tribune journalist who had a passion for mentoring young professionals in the newsroom, this $2,500 award goes to a 4-year college or university student who demonstrates an interest in pursuing a career in communications or journalism.
Grace Chaves
Point Loma Nazarene University
Sycuan Casino Resort Scholarship
Thanks to the generous support of Sycuan Casino Resort, this $1,500 award goes to a community college student who demonstrates an interest in pursuing a career in communications or journalism.
Julio Rodriguez
Southwestern College