The San Diego Press Club’s 52nd annual Excellence in Journalism Awards ceremony was held October 29, 2025, at the new Encore Event Center in Kearny Mesa.
More than 500 awards in 130 categories and 10 divisions were awarded to San Diego’s reporters, writers, artists, photographers, videographers and public relations professionals. College media were also honored, and two college scholarships were awarded to: Alfonso Julian Camacho, a nonspeaking autistic student at Southwestern College, and Swasti Singhai, a San Diego resident who attends UC Berkeley.
The San Diego Sun shared five awards between six people. In the Daily & Online Newspapers Category, Ron Donoho won first place for General News Story; Joshua Silla and Madison Geering shared top honors in the Investigative Reporting category; Calista Stocker took second place in Public Service/Consumer Advocacy; Sal Giametta received an honorable mention for Photography: Photo Essay; and The San Diego Sun was picked as the number 3 top news website in San Diego.
Special Achievement Awards were presented to:
- Harold Keen Award for Outstanding Contributions in Journalism: Ginny Creighton, KGTV 10 News.
- Andy Mace Award for Career Achievement in Public Relations: Julie Wright, (W)right On Communications.
Best of Show winners for 2025 include:
- Best Daily / Online Entry: JW August, David Washburn, “LaRoche, the wandering cop,” KPBS
- Best Non-Daily Newspaper Entry: Jess Levy, “No Passport Needed,” Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce
- Best Magazine Entry: Mateo Hoke, “House Music,” San Diego Magazine
- Best Radio / Broadcast Entry: Salk Communications Office, “Beyond Lab Walls,” Salk Institute for Biological Studies
- Best Television / Online Video Entry: Enedina Cisneros, Kimberly Hunt, Jessica Howard, Gerald Labrador, Luella Mata, “Contaminated Coast: Call for Federal Action,” KGTV
- Rising Star: Nicole Mlynaryk, Salk Institute
- Body of Work: Eric Duval, Ocean Beach Historical Society
- Wildcard Category: Governance Under Fire: Macy Meinhardt, “Shaken, But OK: San Diego Housing Agency Amid Federal Crackdown,” San Diego Voice & Viewpoint
The San Diego Press Club 2025 Excellence in Journalism Awards Winners
DAILY & ONLINE NEWSPAPERS
Breaking News
First Place: Phillip Molnar “Music agent Dave Shapiro and ex-Devil Wears Prada drummer believed killed in plane crash” The San Diego Union-Tribune
Judges Comment: “This piece demonstrated speed along with razor-sharp attention to detail.”
Second Place: Brenda Gregorio-Nieto, Christina Bravo, Danielle Smith
“6 on private jet presumed dead after crash into San Diego neighborhood.”
NBC 7 San Diego
Judges Comment: “Complete coverage from a team with boots on the ground. Great package.”
Third Place: Lara McCaffrey “ICE arrests several workers from South Park restaurant” KPBS
Judges Comment: “This story showed the importance of having an ear to the ground as well as a member of the press present as history unfolds at the local level.”
Honorable Mention: Swasti Singhai “Afghan who aided U.S. Army detained by ICE in San Diego Immigration Court” Times of San Diego
Judges Comment: “A great tip led to a great story here.”
Daily & Online Newspapers: General News
First Place: Ron Donoho “Laura Fink: Why She’s Not Mourning the Death of Bob Filner.”
The San Diego Sun
Judges Comment: “Nicely written story exploring reaction to a news event.”
Daily & Online Newspapers: Investigative Reporting
First Place: Joshua Silla, Madison Geering “Blighted Fault Line Park in East Village Remains a Monument to Bad Management” The San Diego Sun
Second Place: JW August “A wandering cop–Jonathan LaRoche, El Cajon Police Department” Times of San Diego
Daily & Online Newspapers: Architecture and Design
First Place: Nicole Sours Larson “Normal Heights property takes hilltop dreams to another level” The San Diego Union-Tribune
Judges Comment: “A sweet story on a couple making their dream — home — come true.”
Second Place : Nicole Sours Larson “Learning on the job: How a Kensington couple discovered a passion for historic preservation”
The San Diego Union-Tribune
Third Place Nicole Sours Larson “TinyFest expo rounds up inspiration for the ultimate in small-space living” The San Diego Union-Tribune
Daily & Online Newspapers: Business & Financial
First Place: Serena Neumeyer “‘Female Maker Market’ Takes Over Little Italy, Showcases Craft of Women Entrepreneurs” Times of San Diego
Second Place: Ken Stone “San Diego Reader Ends 52-Year Print Run, But Will Keep the Alt-Press Faith Online” Times of San Diego
Third Place: Alexander Nguyen “San Diego businesses worry about fallout from Trump’s Canada-Mexico tariff threat” KPBS News
Honorable Mention: Phillip Molnar “U.S. to charge Chinese-built boats to dock at ports, including San Diego” The San Diego Union-Tribune
Daily & Online Newspapers: Column – Serious Subject
First Place: Cynthia Kosciuczyk “Oxygen Thieves” DesignerTastes.com
Judges Comment: “Speaking out against workplace bullying – brave and timely.”
Second Place: Barry M. Bloom “Baseball losing grasp of its own history in era of new rules” Sportico
Third Place: Marsha Sutton “Ethnic studies controversy” Times of San Diego
Daily & Online Newspapers: Column -Light Subject
First Place: Jim Trageser “The Sunday Special column from Lost In Cyberspace” Lost in Cyberspace
Second Place: Alyssa Navapanich “Art with Alyssa” San Diego Family Magazine
Judges Comment: “Super fun, creative and simple.”
Third Place: Michael Gardiner (writer), Susanna Peredo Swap (editor) “Aushak with Tomato Duxelles — A Taste of the Silk Road” Vanguard Culture
Honorable Mention: Rick Griffin “’MarketInk,’ a weekly media and marketing column, Times of San Diego” Times of San Diego
Daily & Online Newspapers: Criminal Justice
First Place: JW August and David Washburn “LaRoche, the wandering cop” Time of San Diego
Judges Comment: “What an important story to show the failures in law enforcement, which is a system meant to protect and serve the public.”
Second Place: Gabrielle Wallace “Automated license plate readers spark slew of privacy concerns in San Diego” Times of San Diego
Judges Comment: “This brings to light an area of concern for residents. It also does a great job of highlighting how the system in place can fail.”
Third Place; JW August ” Commissioner: Flaws in SDPD complaint portal hinder those with accessibility, language issues ” Times of San Diego
Judges Comment: “The community should thank you for your work bringing this issue to light.”
Daily & Online Newspapers: Education
First Place: Alex J. Schorr and MIriam Raftery “Recall effort launched against 4 GUHSD trustees who refuse to rescind mass firings” EastCountyMagazine.org
Judges Comment: “The massive reporting effort on this piece is evident. As an education reporter for 15+ years, I found it riveting to read. It’s also well written. The two reporters on this story are truly an asset to their community. Well done.”
Second Place: Staff “Free speech at issue after U-T deletes, reinstates UCSD student op-ed on Gaza” Times of San Diego
Judges Comment: “Important work, very well written, carefully stated — this story appears to have led to accountability. Great work!”
Third Place: Kate Morrissey “National City school nurse stocks ‘Period Pantry’ to keep students in class”” Daylight San Diego
Judges Comment: “One of the things I really like about this story is it uses authentic language to talk about an issue that girls in every community everywhere on earth face. It could have been a turnoff to readers, but instead feels impactful and honest. Nice work!”
Daily & Online Newspapers: Editorial
First Place: Miriam Raftery “As we celebrate Independence Day, our democracy is at risk” EastCountyMagazine.org
Daily & Online Newspapers: Election Coverage
First Place: Chris Jennewein “Times of San Diego Voter Guide” Times of San Diego
Second Place: KPBS Staff “Quiz: Where do the candidates for county supervisor stand on the issues that matter to you?” KPBS
Third Place: Miriam Raftery “What is project 2025–and how could it impact you, your family and your community?” EastCountyMagazine.org
Daily & Online Newspapers: Entertainment Reporting
First Place: George Varga “KAABOO goes kablooey: Music fest at Del Mar Fairgrounds canceled for second year in a row” San Diego Union-Tribune
Second Place: Marcia Luttrell “The Great Gatsby ballet” The San Diego Union-Tribune
Third Place: Phillip Molnar “Hollywood strikes back: San Diego Comic-Con to have major star power this year” The San Diego Union-Tribune
Honorable Mention: Cory-LaNeave Jones (writer), Susanna Peredo Swap (editor) “Behind the Scenes: Exploring the San Diego International Film Festival” Vanguard Culture
Daily & Online Newspapers: Environment
First Place: Phil Diehl “Troubled trail ahead for San Onofre’s spent nuclear fuel” The San Diego Union-Tribune
Judges Comment: “Insightful and multi-layered piece. Addresses a complex topic efficiently and effectively.”
Second Place: Elisabeth Frausto “‘Highly unusual’: Coastal animals poisoned by two neurotoxins” lajolla.ca
Judges Comment: “Engaging explanation of the scope of toxic algae and its impact on aquatic life.”
Third Place: Alexander Nguyen “Research reveals how long baby sharks stay in San Diego coast nursery” KPBS News
Judges Comment: “Informative storytelling based on research findings. Grammar issue in first line”
Daily & Online Newspapers: Essay/Commentary/Opinion:
First Place: John M. Eger (writer), Susanna Peredo Swap (editor) “COMMENTARY: Can art heal a fractured world?” Vanguard Culture
Judges Comment: “A thoughtful essay and thought-provoking essay. I wish the title weren’t phrased as a question. The answer is clear: Yes, art can heal a fractured world.”
Second Place : Lisa Ross “The Looming War on Federal Environmental Protections Will Hurt San Diegans”
Judges Comment: “From the vantage point of September 2025, nearly one year after this was published, this essay has, unfortunately, aged all too well. Great job.”
Third Place: Jim Trageser “It (was) complicated” Lost in Cyberspace
Judges Comment: “Excellent treatment of a (yes) complicated subject for a Reds fan. As an almost-lifelong Mets fan (I’m older than the franchise) I hated Rose since he beat up Buddy. This piece really resonated. Well done.”
Honorable Mention: Alejandra Enciso Dardashti “The use of cell phones during a performance: a latent issue that is becoming more aggressive” From Another Zero
Judges Comment: “Spot on commentary about the self-involved idiots who scroll in the theatre. Maddening!”
Daily & Online Newspapers: Feature – Serious subject
First Place: Ken Stone “The Real Story of Becca Taylor’s Death: How Nevada Crash Took SD Dem Chai” Times of San Diego
Second Place: Alexander Nguyen “FBI warns of rise in ‘sextortion’ scams targeting teens” KPBS News
Third Place: Karen Kucher “Little things made all the difference when a plane hit a Murphy Canyon home. ‘We are alive.’” The San Diego Union-Tribune
Honorable Mention: Roberto Camacho “How Volunteer Patrols Are Working to Protect San Diego Immigrant Communities From ICE” Bolts
Daily & Online Newspapers: Feature – Light subject
First Place: Katerina Portela “Valencia Park’s ‘Secret Stairs’ were left in disrepair, but the neighborhood brought it back” KPBS
Judges Comment: “Great storytelling and visuals”
Second Place: Beth Wood “Italian love story: Making music is a family affair for Francesca Dego and Daniele Rustioni” The San Diego Union-Tribune
Judges Comment: “Great storytelling and visuals”
Third Place: Elisabeth Frausto “In print condition: DG Wills Books a treasure trove of tomes” lajolla.ca
Judges Comment: “Great pics. anyone who can use the word “”tome”” in a headline has my attention “
Daily & Online Newspapers: Food Reporting
First Place: Nicole Sours Larson “French onion soup and beyond: comfort food ‘par excellence” The San Diego Union-Tribune
Judges Comment: “THIS is what a top-notch food feature should be! It hits some emotional and visceral moments while holding my attention and making me a little hungry, too.”
Second Place: Irv Erdos “Exploits of Brooklyn aunts preparing Christmas Eve feast San Diego Union-Tribune
Judges Comment: “Entertaining! A uniquely structured narrative, in my opinion. Well done.”
Third Place: Nicole Sours Larson “Bûche de No?l: the ultimate holiday dessert” The San Diego Union-Tribune
Judges Comment: “Thorough in its reporting, and very, very visual/descriptive. The writing has personality.”
Honorable Mention: Irv Erdos “Oy to the world” The San Diego Union-Tribune
Judges Comment: “Unusual entry, but that’s not a bad thing! It nicely blends creative writing and journalistic writing.”
Daily & Online Newspapers: Gardening
First Place: Michael James Rocha “Hollywood backyard” The San Diego Union-Tribune
Judges Comment: “Whoa, that’s an eye-catching story. very cool. nicely told.”
Second Place: Nicole Sours Larson “Fruitmommy, the ‘fruit tree whisperer,’ revitalizes ailing fruit trees” The San Diego Union-Tribune
Judges Comment: “Very informative, great pics”
Daily & Online Newspapers: Health & Medicine
First Place: Lisa Pawlak “Helpful or Harmful? What parents need to know about screen time for babies and toddlers” San Diego Family Magazine
Second Place: Jamie Reno “A Remarkable New Cancer Treatment Is Saving Lives but Scaring Some Patients” BreakingCancerNews.com
Third Place: J W August “California Families Will Face Major Care Challenges as Baby Boomers Age” Times of San Diego
Honorable Mention: Doug Brunk “What to Make of the Comorbidities Linked to Rosacea” Medscape
Daily & Online Newspapers: History
Second Place: Bill Swank “Did Dwight Eisenhower play baseball under an assumed name?” The San Diego Union-Tribune
Judges Comment: “Interesting read on little known history.”
Third Place: Elisabeth Frausto “‘Still here’: The enduring history of La Jolla’s Indigenous” lajolla.ca
Honorable Mention: Chris Stone “Carlsbad’s Neil Black, 50 years after Vietnam war, on how he survived 7½ years as POW” Times of San Diego
Judges Comment: “Well written account of harrowing experience.”
Daily & Online Newspapers: Military
First Place: Bill Swank “Named after Uncle Sam and Calvin Coolidge, this San Diegan was a Japanese American war hero” The San Diego Union-Tribune
Judges Comment: Interesting account of one Japanese American’s treatment during World War II.”
Daily & Online Newspapers: Multicultural
First Place: Lauren J. Mapp “AANHPI leaders urge San Diegans to remember community’s struggles during heritage month celebrations” Daylight San Diego
Second Place: George Varga “Young music phenom D.K. Harrell lighting up the blues: ‘He has this electricity’” The San Diego Union-Tribune
Third Place: Henri Migala “Syrian community celebrates liberation of Syria” EastCountyMagazine.org
Honorable Mention: Beth Wood “Spring Arts Preview 2025: Cellist Peter Ko is thriving at UCSD and beyond” The San Diego Union-Tribune
Daily & Online Newspapers: Political/Government
First Place: JW August “What did this politician know and when did he know it?”
Times of San Diego
Judges Comment: “Good story with impact. In-depth political reporting beneath the surface.”
Second Place: Ken Stone “Carl DeMaio selling his Rancho Bernardo home, leaving 75th District rental unit” Times of San Diego
Judges Comment: “Solid political reporting beneath the surface.”
Third Place: Ken Stone “Did DeMaio Staffer Join SD Republican Central Committee as Riverside Resident?” Times of San Diego
Daily & Online Newspapers: Profile
First Place: Rick Griffin “Profile of food blogger Darryl Gordon, who goes out to eat every night.” Times of San Diego
Second Place: Marcia Luttrell “Larisa Hall Aims to Teach Dancers of all Abilities” The San Diego Union-Tribune
Third Place: Roberto Camacho ‘The Empire’s Not Gone’ Analyst News
Honorable Mention: Rick Griffin “Profile of radio talk-show host Mark Larson’s fight with lymphoma.” Times of San Diego
Daily & Online Newspapers:
First Place: Roberto Camacho “How Volunteer Patrols Are Working to Protect San Diego Immigrant Communities From ICE” Bolts
Second Place: Calista Stocker “Public Bathrooms: San Diego Keeps Kicking the Can Down the Road” The San Diego Sun
Third Place: Miriam Raftery “Homeless people in Lemon Grove hope for dignity and homes” EastCountyMagazine.org
Daily & Online Newspapers: Real Estate
First Place: Phillip Molnar “San Diego might be having its slowest year ever for newly built housing” The San Diego Union-Tribune
Judges Comment: “Good job not only calling attention to an alarming statistic but also identifying the underlying reasons behind it.”
Daily & Online Newspapers – Reviews: Restaurant
First Place: Debra Bass “Unapologetically Blaxican: A Culinary Journey of Family, Culture, and Comfort” Edible San Diego
Judges Comment: “Yum. delicious pics. This was a tough one to score, equally attractive features.”
Second Place: Michael James Rocha “Choi’s restaurant review”
The San Diego Union-Tribune
Judges Comment: “This was a tough one to score, equally attractive features.”
Daily & Online Newspapers – Reviews: Live Performance
First Place: George Varga “Sabrina Carpenter gets fizzy with it at her flirty San Diego concert” San Diego Union-Tribune
Second Place: Noah Lyons “Foo Fighters remain triumphant at Petco Park concert, despite tragic loss” The San Diego Union-Tribune
Third Place: Cory-LaNeave Jones (writer), Susanna Peredo Swap (editor) “They Might Be Giants to Visit North Park Observatory Two Days After Mother’s Day”
Vanguard Culture
Honorable Mention: George Varga “Vocally challenged Elvis Costello snatches victory from jaws of defeat in San Diego” The San Diego Union-Tribune
Daily & Online Newspapers – Reviews: Theater
First Place: Michael James Rocha “Book of Mormon” The San Diego Union-Tribune
Second Place: Kristen Nevarez Schweizer (writer), Susanna Peredo Swap (editor) “Grit Meets Melody: SDMT’s Stripped-Down Sweeney Todd Cuts Deep” Vanguard Culture
Third Place: Mark S. Burgess “The Cast Shines in North Coast Repertory Theatre’s ‘A View from the Bridge’” SanDiegoStory.com
Honorable Mention: David Dixon “Cygnet’s Latest Excels in Emotional Richness”
San Diego Story
Daily & Online Newspapers: Reviews: Misc.
First Place: JW August “Murder Trial of a Black man who killed a police officer.” Times of San Diego
Second Place: Gayle Lynn Falkenthal “May 12, 2025, It Happened: Jim Lampley’s New Book Covers His Wide World of Sports” NY Fights
Third Place: Rebecca Romani “To mourn is to be human” Vanguard Culture
Daily & Online Newspapers: Science/Technology/Biotech
First Place: Elisabeth Frausto “Marine slayer: Why La Jolla’s ‘June Gloom’ exists” lajolla.ca
Second Place: Jamie Reno “Will China’s AI Breakthrough be a Game-Changer for Early Cancer Detection?” BreakingCancerNews.com
Third Place: Doug Brunk “Axolotl Offers Promise in Unlocking the Secrets of Skin Regeneration” Medscape
Honorable Mention: Jamie Reno “Pancreatic Cancer Vaccine: A Potentially Enormous Breakthrough for Patients” BreakingCancerNews.com
Daily & Online Newspapers: Sports
First Place: Alexander Nguyen “Recent deaths put spotlight on contact sports. Should kids be playing?” KPBS News
Judges Comment: “A great lede and a relatable theme of ‘this could happen to me or my kid’ make this story tug at the reader’s heart. The mother’s anguish is well-depicted, and the settlement artfully expressed as a large sum, but an amount that could never be enough, no matter how many zeros it had at the end of it.”
Second Place: Ken Stone “Obituary Written for U.S. Race Walking? Or Can Americans Return to Olympics?” Times of San Diego
Judges Comment: “A very comprehensive report and metaphor for the ever-changing landscape of sports. Colorful quotes and a wide array of opinions give this piece a high degree of readability, despite the subject matter being an event that might not be everyone’s first choice of sporting entertainment.”
Third Place: Bill Swank “Baseball bonded 3 Japanese Americans from San Diego during, after World War II” The San Diego Union-Tribune
Judges Comment: “The story forces one to remind oneself that internment camps were not that long ago and how history is important to remember. This piece has a warm, folksy feel to it, and the Don Larsen angle links the reader to a name people know. The old news clips and black and white photos add a nice touch”
Honorable Mention: James Miller “Chula Vista teen shares a nutritionist with Dustin Poirier. Why? He’s aiming for youth MMA title” Times of San Diego
Daily & Online Newspapers: Travel – Domestic
First Place: Elaine Masters “How to Travel Smarter in the US Without a Car” TripWellGal.com
Judges Comment: “Inspired, actionable and enviro-friendly travel hacks that can be applied to a range of travel destinations “
Second Place: Lisa Gipson “Explore Kid-Friendly Slot Canyons of Arizona: Antelope Canyon” San Diego Family Magazine
Judges Comment: “Engaging travel ideas for families”
Daily & Online Newspapers: Travel – International
First Place: Kevin Brass “In Search of Costa Rica’s Most Famous Beach” Globetrotters
Second Place: Elaine Masters “The Wondrous Evolution of Baja’s Luxury Getaway,
La Villa De Valle” TripWellGal.com
Third Place: George Varga, Beth Wood “Ahoy! Two cruise-ship virgins do Viking’s three-river Grand European Tour” The San Diego Union-Tribune
Daily & Online Newspapers: Visual/Fine Arts Reporting
First Place: Cornelia Feye (writer), Susanna Peredo Swap (editor) “In Defense of Nature – Joseph Beuys at the Broad Museum” Vanguard Culture
Judges Comment: “Feye unwraps the layers of history and meaning in the work of a complex conceptual artist beautifully. At the same time, she offers thoughts of her own that deepen the article and make it more than just a review”
Second Place: Cathy Breslaw (writer), Susanna Peredo Swap (editor) “Illuminated Text: Greta Schödl’s Mastery at Frieze Art Fair 2025” Vanguard Culture
Judges Comment: “Breslaw did research into the artist, the technique the meaning of the work, and introduced a new artist to readers while expressing the physical, emotional and conceptual aspects of Greta Schodl’s work.”
Third Place: Rebecca Romani (writer), Susanna Peredo Swap (editor) “Wonders of Creation: A Journey Through 13 Centuries of Islamic Art and Science” Vanguard Culture
Judges Comment: “A comprehensive view of the exhibition, filled with details, a walkthrough of objects and deep consideration of the thinking and inspiration behind the show. Just what a visual/fine art review should be.”
Honorable Mention: Susanna Peredo Swap “From Whimsy to the Sublime – ART: PARIS 2025 Explores the Complexities of Human Nature” Vanguard Culture
Daily & Online Newspapers: Wildlife/Nature
First Place: Karen Kucher “‘Just bodies of animals everywhere’: Toxic algae bloom taking a toll on marine life” The San Diego Union-Tribune
Second Place : Aubrey Lloyd, Mike Hausberg, Caitlin Hannah, Sara Maher, Lisa Bissi “Hope Takes Flight” San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance
Third Place: Elyan Shor “Exceptional Trees Need Exceptional Conservation” San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance
Daily & Online Newspapers: Feature Layout Design
First Place: Kenneth Pagano The San Diego-Union Tribune
MAGAZINES
General News
First Place: Elizabeth Marie Himchak “City agrees to remove controversial bollards on Diamond Street” PB Monthly
Magazines: Series
First Place: Andrea Naversen, Vincent Knakal, Bob Stefanko Mia Park, Chloe Pedersen “At Home with Sandra and Henny Den Uijl’ Ranch & Coast Magazine
Second Place : John Blocker, Rachel Cobb “Torrey Pines Reserve”
San Diego Floral Association
Third Place: Ron James, Mary James, Wine Dine & Travel’s “Discovery” Series Wine Dine & Travel Magazine
Magazines: Architecture and Design
First Place: Mateo Hoke “House Music” San Diego Magazine
Second Place: Andrea Naversen, Yoshi Makino, Chloe Pedersem “Wine + Design: Bella Union” Ranch & Coast Magazine
Third Place: Andrea Naversen, Vincent Knakal, Bob Stefanko, Chloe Pedersen “On Top of the World” Ranch & Coast Magazine
Honorable Mention: Gillian Flynn, Vincent Knakal “Coming up Roses”
Ranch & Coast Magazine
Magazines: Business & Financial
First Place: Lisa Pawlak “Biz Kids: Turning Ideas into Profit” San Diego Family Magazine
Judges Comment: “Well done, informative story with good ideas and quotes from experts to back it up.”
Second Place: Andrea Naversen “Maui’s Comeback: Resorts and restaurants welcome chefs and tourists in the wake of wildfires” Ranch & Coast Magazine
Magazines: Column – Serious Subject
First Place: Salk Communications Office “Seeds of Change”
Salk Institute for Biological Studies
Judges Comment: “Very well done, detailed and compelling. I learned something from this and would like to learn more about it.”
Second Place: Ellie Burgueno “Behind the Mask: Raising Awareness About Narcissistic Abuse” Beyond Borders Gazette
Judges Comment: “Well done, detailed piece about a subject people may not know about. Got second because first place really knocked it out of the park.”
Third Place: Ron James, Mary James “Ron and Mary’s Editor’s Note”
Wine Dine & Travel Magazine
Judges Comment: “This is well written, and the travel issue is of concern,
as we all know.”
Honorable Mention: Arlene Yang, Ben Koh, Lorena Slomanson” “Why I Lawyer”
San Diego County Bar Association
Magazines: Column – Light Subject
First Place: George W. Brewster “The Rewind” San Diego County Bar Association
Judges comment: “Entry includes a Very humorous and slightly thought-provoking rant with a strong personality (What It Isn’t), and a well-researched bio that holds the reader’s interest (Marie Herney Trailblazer.)”
Second Place: Andrea Naversen, Adrienne Alpert “Andrea Naversen Wait”
Ranch & Coast Magazine
Judges Comment: “Columnist’s final Letter from the Editor weaves glimpses of past & present Christmases in a deeply personal, engaging way.”
Third Place: “Dr. Sabrina Falquier, Jen Lo “Seasonal Superfoods – Winter, Spring and Summer” Edible San Diego
Judges Comment: “Useful info is presented in a clear, inviting way.”
Magazines: Criminal Justice
First Place: Cathy Scott “Remembering Voletta Wallace, Mother of Rapper Biggie Smalls” Psychology Today
Second Place: Cathy Scott “Five Cold Cases Solved in 2024 Because of New Technology” Psychology Today
Magazines: Education
First Place: Lisa Pawlak “The Importance of Storytelling: How reading supports SEL” San Diego Family Magazine
Judges Comment: “This is well researched and well written. It editorializes a tiny little bit, but it’s all in the scope of exploring an educational concept. I enjoyed reading this.”
Second Place: Jeff Bettger, Kim Skulavik, Eddie Flores “Meet Your Neighbors: The Arancibia Family” The Towne Local Bonita
Judges Comment: “This lively profile of an impactful local couple/family was uplifting and thoughtful.”
Third Place: Rafael Hurtado “Making a Difference in the Community…and Beyond”
San Diego County Bar Association
Judges Comment: “This doesn’t feel like a traditional magazine article, but I think that’s okay in this case. It was compelling and I came away with an understanding of an impactful program.”
Honorable Mention: Taneashia R. Morrell “The Path to Progress: Why Diversity Strengthens and Drives Innovation San Diego County Bar Association
Magazines: Entertainment Reporting
First Place: Melanie Maxwell “The 37th Catalina Island JazzTrax Festival Smooth Jazz News
Judges Comment: “Challenging category to score, equally deserving”
Second Place: Jim Trageser “Cindy Lee Berryhill Comes Full Circle”
San Diego Troubadour
Judges Comment: “Challenging category to score, equally deserving”
Magazines: Environment
First Place: Amanda Cavallari, Lisa Gipson “Suburban Homesteading: How to practice sustainable living in San Diego” San Diego Family Magazine
Second Place: Deanna Murphy “Win-Win Conservation” Ranch & Coast Magazine
Magazines: Essay/Commentary/Opinion
First Place: Nicolle Monico “The Age of Earnestness” San Diego Magazine
Second Place: Nicole D’Ambrogi “Inclusion Beyond Appearances: A Call to Action for the Legal Community” San Diego County Bar Association
Third Place: Jeff Bettger, Kim Skulavik “Letter from The Editor: Graduations”
The Towne Local Bonita
Magazines: Feature – Serious subject
First Place: Lisa Pawlak “Technoference: How technology harms parent-child relationships” San Diego Family Magazine
Second Place: Deanna Murphy “Vision, Work, and Impact” Ranch & Coast Magazine
Third Place: Elaine Masters “How Bob Dylan and Timothée Chalamet Helped Heal a Rift with My Son” TripWellGal.com
Magazines: Feature: Light subject
First Place: Lisa Gipson “How to Have a Retro Summer” San Diego Family Magazine
Second Place: Lauren J. Mapp, Lauren Di Matteo “Food Forestry – Partnering with the trees that nourish us” Edible San Diego
Magazines: Food Reporting
First Place: Mateo Hoke “Fish Farm to Table” San Diego Magazine
Judges Comment: “A breathtaking work of journalism. This is so in-depth and intriguing, well written and well edited, and sophisticated overall. It stands out above the rest in a very competitive category of food writing entries. I’m an award-winning food writer myself, and I bow to this journalist. Incredible”
Second Place: Nathalie Taylor “Savvy Macs – Bringing Color and Flavor to the World Through Macarons” Sourcebook Magazine
Judges Comment: “This is a really special story. It hits the right mark between “food story” and “business profile,” and answers a lot of questions I didn’t know I had about macarons. Well done.”
Third Place: Bill Abrams, Donald Miralle “Bad Boyz of Culinary” Ranch & Coast Magazine
Judges Comment: “This story checks many of the boxes I look for in an award-worthy food story: a unique hook, excellent writing, and a sense that I learned either something new or how to appreciate something new (in this case, this story accomplished both of those things. Nice work!”
Honorable Mention: Danielle Allaire “Campestre Harvest Report 2024”
Edible San Diego
Judges Comment: “This category was so hard to judge because every entry was great. This piece was enjoyable and nicely written in a style that pushes some envelopes. The illustrations were great, too.”
Magazines: Gardening
First Place: Peggy Scott “The Night Life: Plants That Bloom in the Dark” San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance
Second Place: Kenise Adams “From Seed to Soil” Edible San Diego
Third Place: John Blocker, Nancy Carol Carter, Rachel Cobb, Thea Gurns, Lee Somerville “In the Garden; San Diego Floral Association
Honorable Mention: John Blocker, Nancy Carol Carter, Rachel Cobb, Thea Gurns, Lee Somerville “California Garden, September/October 2024 • Volume 115, Number 5” San Diego Floral Association
Magazines: Health & Medicine
First Place: Jeff Bettger, Kim Skulavik, Kenric Martinez” “Horses Helping Humans” The Towne Local Bonita
Judges Comment: “This was a very thorough article on horse assisted therapy
and its benefits.”
Second Place: Annie Pierce “Leading the Way With Care” UC San Diego Health
Judges Comment: “Detailed, compelling article on the benefits of UC San Diego Health. Good patient examples”
Third Place: Scripps Research Communications Office “Scripps Research Magazine – Winter 2025” Scripps Research
Judges Comment: “A well done magazine but the entry did not focus on one story or feature, as the other entries did, so it wasn’t clear what story I should pick to use as the main story to compare to the others. I would recommend to the editors they pick one story to focus on for next year.”
Honorable Mention: Jim Trageser “X-Linked Carriers: What Everyone Needs to Know” IG Living
Judges Comment: “This was a very detailed explanation, bordering on being a piece for a scientific journal, but it could have benefited from some real-life examples/quotes from people impacted.”
Magazines: History
First Place: Eric DuVall “A Page from History: Story of OB’s little library is beginning a new chapter” Ocean Beach Historical Society
Second Place: Andrea Naversen “Soak up the Sun and History on Catalina” Ranch & Coast Magazine
Third Place: Andrea Naversen, Vincent Knakal, Bob Stefanko, Mia Park, Chloe Pedersen Transformation of a Treasured Landmark” Ranch & Coast Magazine
Honorable Mention: George W. Brewster “The Courthouse Clock: A Timely Tale” San Diego County Bar Association
Magazines: Military
First Place: Bill Abrams “Elevating Military Families” Ranch & Coast Magazine Judges Comment: “As a navy veteran, I am an instant fan of this piece. This was a tough category to score, both features equally deserving as a navy veteran, I am an instant fan of this piece”
Second Place: Andrea Naversen “Tour of Honor” Ranch & Coast Magazine
Judges Comment: “As a navy veteran, I am an instant fan of this piece. This was a tough category to score, both features equally deserving”
Magazines: Multicultural
First Place: Tarina Mand “A Story of Caste Discrimination in America” San Diego County Bar Association
Judges Comment: “Well-written, compelling piece about an issue. I had no idea this was still so concerning.”
Second Place: Lauren J. Mapp, Becka Vance “Reconnecting with Ancestral Lands through Agriculture” Edible San Diego
Judges Comment: “Well-done piece, touching on multiple important issues. Looking forward to reading more about the farm as it grows and the next steps
the tribe will be taking.”
Magazines: Political/Government
First Place: Judge Dana M. Sabraw “Judicial Independence: The Rule of Law and Our Democracy Depend on It” San Diego County Bar Association
Second Place: Maria C. Chavez “Preparing for the New Practice of Immigration Law” San Diego County Bar Association
Magazines: Profile
First Place: Jim Trageser “Stoney B: I’m Not Going to Run Away from the Name Blues” Living Blues
Second Place: Jim Trageser “Tee Dee Young: Icon of the Lexington Blues Scene”
Living Blues
Third Place: Ryan Rizzuto, Adriana Delgado “Field Notes with Ellee Igoe” Edible San Diego
Honorable Mention: Elizabeth Marie Himchak “Rick Aguilar returns to SDPD’s Northern Division, this time as its captain” PB Monthly
Magazines: Public Service/Consumer Advocacy
First Place: Linda St. Angelo Burritt “Inside the Autistic Mind: Understanding a spectrum of sensory differences” Flourishing Families
Second Place: Amanda Cavallari “Summer Safety: Preparation is Everything” San Diego Family Magazine
Third Place: Linda St. Angelo Burritt “Make Safety a Priority: Tips and tools to keep loved ones safe at home and away” Flourishing Families
Honorable Mention: Scott Pirrello “How San Diego Combats Elder Abuse” San Diego County Bar Association
Magazines: Real Estate
First Place: Gillian Flynn “Super Natural” Ranch & Coast Magazine
Magazines: Reviews: Restaurant
First Place: Brandon Hernandez, Vincent Knakal “Le Coq de la Promenade” Ranch & Coast Magazine
Judges Comment: “Attractive photos, good read”
Second Place: Beth Demmon, Lauren Di Matteo “An Anchor of San Diego Dining” Edible San Diego
Judges Comment: “I’m a fan of the story, but not of the layout. excellent pictures, but there’s a lot of copy on the page. I would have increased the photo size and spread that story onto another two pages.”
Third Place: Ron James, Mary James “Lima’s hot new generation of restaurants” Wine Dine & Travel Magazine
Judges Comment: “I loved the interactive portion. sans serif is a difficult font to read for many people.”
Honorable Mention: Nathalie Taylor “Backdraft Bar & Grill – Comfort Food in a Neighborly Atmosphere” Sourcebook Magazine
Magazines: Reviews: Theater
First Place: ErinMarie Reiter “’Sweeney Todd: The demon barber of Fleet Street’ at San Diego Musical Theatre” Talk Theatre To Me
Second Place: ErinMarie Reiter “A Streetcar Named Desire – Backyard Renaissance” Talk Theatre To Me
Third Place: ErinMarie Reiter “What the Constitution Means To Me – North Coast Repertory Theatre” Talk Theatre To Me
Magazines: Reviews: Misc.
First Place: Jim Trageser “Sunshine of Your Love—Peter Sprague Plays Cream”
San Diego Troubadour
Second Place: Jim Trageser “Notes from the Road by Robert Mugge Living Blues
Third Place: Jeanne Ferris “Rez Ball: Film review” News From Native California
Magazines: Science/Technology/Biotech
First Place: Salk Communications Office “Inside Salk Fall 2024”
Salk Institute for Biological Studies
Judges Comment: “From a magazine perspective, this issue is very well done. Engaging and detailed and works for a wide audience (not just scientists). I liked the themed concept on the cover and the use of illustrations throughout. Stories (main feature) tie in the personal connection to the science, which helps humanize the process.”
Second Place: Scripps Research Communications Office “Catalyst: The Science Issue Winter 2025” Scripps Research
Judges Comment: “This is well done. Energizing design, crisp writing. Overall, though, it presents more like a scientific journal than a magazine. Didn’t have the connections/emotional tie in to topics as the first-place entry.”
Third Place: Lisa Pawlak “Up and Atom! How to raise a STEM-savvy student”
San Diego Family Magazine
Judges Comment: This is well written but lacks back up for the suggestions and examples of children who have benefited or followed the suggestions within it.
Magazines: Sports
First Place: Deanna Murphy “Driven” Ranch & Coast Magazine
Judges Comment: “Compelling, trailblazing, against-the-odds type of story is always appealing, especially when it is well-written – as this one is. The piece is enhanced by the diverse and effective photo gallery.”
Magazines: Travel – Domestic
First Place: Nicolle Monico “Still Wild” San Diego Magazine
Judges Comment: “A real traveler’s travelogue, giving the reader a taste of what it would like to be there, not only now, but decades and centuries ago. Excellent, sepia-toned photos complemented the piece, and it did a great job of extolling Jackson Hole as something more than just a ski resort, weaving history and conservationism smoothly.”
Second Place: Elizabeth Hansen, Richard Adams “Getting Into Training, And Exploring Downtown Los Angeles” Ranch & Coast Magazine
Judges Comment: “Enjoyable piece about not only the destination but also the slightly less common way of getting there. Well-written and insightful information about places not necessarily well-documented in L.A. The food described sounded great and this could almost have doubled as a restaurant review, but in a good way.”
Third Place: Joe Yogerst “Grand Canyon pit stop is now a bona fide hot spot” Joe Yogerst
Judges Comment: “Between the copy, the photos and the video, the reader certainly is presented with everything he or she needs to know about the resurgence of Flagstaff. The Grand Canyon, as prominent and famous as it is, was largely ignored and I think that worked and was purposeful. If looking at stars is your thing, the piece does compel you to visit.”
Magazines: Travel – International
First Place: Ron James, Mary James “Discovering Scotland”
Wine Dine & Travel Magazine
Judges Comment: “Well described but never overwrought, a nicely done travelogue of the Scottish Highlands and Islands. As it seems most of the excursion was beset by not just rain, but sideways and wind-swept downpours, the writers did a good job of mixing that in as an inconvenient yet charming character in their adventure. Many of the mountain-shrouded photos were other-worldly but became somewhat one-note towards the end. Nice job on the waterfall photo…not an easy shot, especially in rough conditions”
Second Place: Elizabeth Hansen, Richard Adams “San Miguel de Allende”
Ranch & Coast Magazine
Judges Comment: “A succinct but well-written piece with dazzling photos (especially the cover shot). The writer also presented a nice touch of history about the first ex-pats to establish themselves in San Miguel de Allende but transitioned smoothly as to what a present-day traveler can do – and of course eat – while there.”
Third Place: Ron James “Discovering Thailand” Wine Dine & Travel Magazine
Judges Comment: “A nice job on not only detailing an exotic and varied experience that is Thailand but also weaving in the inheriting of a new travel family. Pictures we are stunning of not only the golden and giant temples and statues, but also in the villages.”
Honorable Mention: Tom Gable “African Trifecta — Serengeti, Rwanda, and Masai Mara” Wine, Dine and Travel Magazine
Magazines: Wildlife/Nature
First Place: Joe Yogerst “The Secret World of Canada’s Coastal Wolves” Joe Yogerst
Magazines: Drawing or Illustration
First Place: George W. Brewster Fees—A Parody of the Trees”
San Diego County Bar Association
Judges Comment: “This illustration fits the style, and illustrates the point of the column it accompanies in a creative way.”
Second Place: Amy Blandford “Wildlife Care” San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance
Judges Comment: “In a clear, inviting style for children, each of several integrated scenes shows a specific example of what the accompanying text covers.”
Third Place: Amy Blandford “Meerkat Mob” San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance
Magazines: Front Page Design
First Place: Vincent Knakal, Bob Stefanko, Chloe Pedersen, Mia Park “September 2024” Front Cover Ranch & Coast Magazine
Judges Comment: “I love the motion of this and the colors”
Second Place: Vincent Knakal, Bob Stefanko, Chloe Pedersen “February 2025” Front Cover Ranch & Coast Magazine
Judges Comment: “Nice, very classic”
Third Place: Dwight Huang Summer 2025” Cover Edible San Diego
Judges Comment: “Simple, yet I appreciate it very much”
Honorable Mention: Rik Thiesfeld, Michele Hancock, Christianne Dowd Front cover of Flourishing Families Flourishing Families
Judges Comment: “What a fun cover!”
Magazines: Feature Layout Design
First Place: Chloe Pedersen, Vincent Knakal “Best Restaurants: Readers’ Choice” Ranch & Coast Magazine
Judges Comment: “Each layout was more stunning than the next. It’s not just the photography but the elegance and simplicity of the pages that complemented the pictures, which of course were excellent. Even the consistency and purposefulness of the fonts impressed. Very Lovely Work.”
Second Place: Chloe Pedersen, Gillian Flynn “Bright Ideal” Ranch & Coast Magazine
Judges Comment: “The text within one of the pages mentioned a ‘come hither’ quality, and that is what these entries did as well. Appealing architectural photos anchored by the props in the center were very tastefully done and quite pleasing to the eye.”
Third Place: Peggy Scott Headline compilation San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance
Judges Comment: Wildlife and drone photography put together in an aesthetically pleasing and simple way made each of these handsome and eye-catching. Especially like the gravel-covered lizard!”
Honorable Mention: Oliver Yambao “Seeds of Change” Salk Institute for Biological Studies
Non-Daily Newspapers
Breaking News
First Place: Scott Hopkins “Student arrested for bringing pellet gun to PLHS game” Times of San Diego
Judges Comment: “Strong, concise writing.”
Non-Daily Newspapers: General News
First Place: Regina Elling “Backcountry women ranchers maintain legacies while embracing the future” Ramona Sentinel
Judges Comment: “Well-told story about women in ranching. Strong narrative, good attention to detail (e.g., smaller vaccine guns that are easier for women to hold and use.) Great job”
Second Place: Regina Elling “As prices rise, egg producers and restaurant owners in Ramona make adjustments” Ramona Sentinel
Judges Comment: “Good examination of the impacts of the nationwide egg shortage created by avian flu on ordinary business people.”
Third Place: Denis Grasska Pope Leo Is ‘One of Us’ The Southern Cross
Judges Comment: “Nice reaction piece to the elevation of Cardinal Robert Prevost
to the papacy.”
Honorable Mention: Luke Harold “State housing agency: Del Mar still must upzone bluffside properties if fairgrounds plan fails” Del Mar Times
Judges Comment: “Clear treatment of complex subject.”
Non-Daily Newspapers: Investigative Reporting
Honorable Mention: Macy Meinhardt “Rent Hikes, Neglect and Evictions Grip Blackstone Tenants ” San Diego Voice & Viewpoint
Non-Daily Newspapers: Series
First Place: Macy Meinhardt “Toxic Culture, Failing Students: Inside the Harriet Tubman Village Charter Crisis” San Diego Voice & Viewpoint
Judges Comment: “Well reported and written series on a troubled school.
Excellent work.”
Non-Daily Newspapers: Architecture and Design
First Place: Ray Huard “Swinerton Finishing $500M Hotel Del Renovation” San Diego Business Journal
Judges Comment: “Engaging balance of architecture and history.”
Second Place: Julie Gallant “Crowd cheers as Ramona archway centerpiece is unveiled on Halloween” Ramona Sentinel
Judges Comment: “Lively story celebrating the design and unveiling of the archway”
Third Place: Ray Huard “US Grant Hotel Gets $4M Facelift” San Diego Business Journal
Judges Comment: “Interesting insight into preservation and detective work to maintain history.”
Non-Daily Newspapers: Business & Financial
First Place: Julie Gallant “Ramona couple’s 180-degree flashlight to be featured on ‘Shark Tank’” Ramona Sentinel
Second Place: Brad Graves “A Boost for Shipbuilders: Bill Calls for More U.S. Cargo Vessels” San Diego Business Journal
Third Place: Madison Geering “Market-Style Retail Provides Functional Solution to Retail Vacancies” San Diego Business Journal
Honorable Mention: Karen Billing “Encinitas fashion designer building luxury brand with ROMUSE” Encinitas Advocate
Non-Daily Newspapers: Column – Serious Subject
First Place: Carlos Davalos “From the Editor” The Star-News
Judges Comment: “Succinctly written. Opinion is clear and strong, which is refreshing.”
Second Place: Marsha Sutton “Education Matters: Settlement reached, details vague and the (almost) final chapter in SDUHSD saga” Del Mar Times
Judges Comment: “Persistence pays off. And, as this writer demonstrates, persistence is mandatory when making record requests to agencies that don’t want to comply.”
Third Place: Lisa Ross “A View From The Chair” Sierra Club San Diego Chapter
Judges Comment: “Column about coping with the wildfire and its impacts was very moving.”
Non-Daily Newspapers: Column – Light Subject
First Place: Wayne Chan “Wayne’s World” San Diego Union Tribune/Chieftain
Judges Comment: “Columns about married life are rather rare these days, so these pieces seem sort of quaint. (I mean this in a nice way.) These were entertaining, fun, and funny. Nice to know it’s still ok to poke fun of ourselves, our spouses,
and The Institution.”
Second Place: Carlos Davalos “From the Editor” The Star-News
Judges Comment “Nice touch with this column, which features wry observations about ordinary life in extraordinary times.
Non-Daily Newspapers: Criminal Justice
First Place: Elizabeth Marie Himchak “Friends & Family Community Connection disbanded after embezzlement” Rancho Bernardo News Journal
Judges Comment: “Good job shining a light on the criminal activity that led to the downfall of an organization pursuing a valuable purpose. When it comes to public records access, persistence is the name of the game. Good for you (and your readers!)”
Non-Daily Newspapers: Education
First Place: Elizabeth Marie Himchak “Tiny house built by PUSD students goes up for auction” Rancho Bernardo News Journal
Judges Comment: “Awesome story — it checks all the boxes I look for in an award-winning piece. Well structured. The crisp, clean language and great context make this very enjoyable to read. This is the clear winner in this category.”
Second Place: Regina Elling “Peighton the therapy dog spreads pawsitivity at Ramona school” Ramona Sentinel
Judges Comment: “Strong story with great context and detail. The writing evokes emotion and hits home — I think we can all use a visit from this therapy dog.”
Third Place: Julie Gallant “Funding cut for new Poway Unified program for students with disabilities” Poway News Chieftain
Judges Comment: “Nice reporting on an important topic that has both local and national appeal at the same time. I appreciated the lede of this story as one of the strongest ledes in this category overall.”
Honorable Mention: Julie Gallant “Poway elementary students help pilot comic book that teaches kids about hunger” Poway News Chieftain
Judges Comment: “Cute story that goes beyond the cuteness to talk about the bigger picture! Nicely done.”
Non-Daily Newspapers: Editorial
First Place: Jess Levy “No Passport Needed” Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce
Non-Daily Newspapers: Election Coverage
First Place: Luke Harold “Judge orders change to SDUHSD candidate’s ‘false and misleading’ ballot designation” Del Mar Times
Judges Comment: “Interesting examination of a very local election issue, of the type typically overlooked by larger media. Good job shining a light on this.”
Second Place: Macy Meinhardt “Local Narratives Behind the 2024 Black Male Vote” San Diego Voice & Viewpoint
Judges Comment: Good analysis piece with a local focus.
Third Place: Ina von Ber “Food fight for the White House– Kamala’s Doritos vs. Donald’s burgers? Who will feed America?” Ambassadorial Roundtable
Non-Daily Newspapers: Entertainment Reporting
First Place: Sande Lollis “Cathryn Beeks: Cain’t Nothin’ Ever Keep Her Down” EDGE OF A PLANET MUSIC HOUSE
Second Place: Regina Elling “Inspired by Ramona mentors, musician Benjamin McCarthy pays it forward” Ramona Sentinel
Third Place: Michael J. Williams “Longtime friends from Torrey Pines High collaborate on feature film” Carmel Valley News
Honorable Mention: Elizabeth Marie Himchak “Noel Paul Stookey — of Peter, Paul and Mary — comes to RB” Rancho Bernardo News Journal
Non-Daily Newspapers: Essay/Commentary/Opinion
First Place: Charles Carr “A.I. is changing the way we think — and not for the better” Charles Carr
Non-Daily Newspapers: Feature – Serious subject
First Place: Karen Billing “Niam’s Run for Kids with Cancer raises $33,000 for Leukemia & Lymphoma Society” Carmel Valley News
Judges Comment: “Great call-to-action story with nice, human connection photos.”
Second Place: Scott Hopkins “Tragic crash ends former Pointer star’s athletic career” Times of San Diego
Judges Comment: “Sad way to learn a lesson, glad to see she’s able to use it as a teachable moment for others. well written.”
Third Place: Elizabeth Marie Himchak “Celebration of Courage shines spotlight on domestic violence” Rancho Bernardo News Journal
Judges Comment: “Good story. strange, random bolded formatting made it difficult to read.”
Non-Daily Newspapers: Feature – Light subject
First Place: Scott Hopkins “Family, neighbors welcome back Point Loma Olympian” Times of San Diego
Judges Comment: “Tacos. of course. I felt like I was there for his homecoming. great storytelling and pics.”
Second Place: Xiomara Gerardo “Pastor put families, migrants on path to healing”
The Star-News
Judges Comment: “Xiomara, you’re a great storyteller. looks like you are skilled at digging down to reach people in the community and tell their stories.”
Third Place: Aida Bustos “Parishioners Dancing to Better Health”
The Southern Cross”
Judges Comment: “Fun, upbeat story. great pics. nice call-to-action.”
Honorable Mention: Denis Grasska “’Young Saint’ Inspires Home for Catholic Youth” The Southern Cross
Judges Comment: “Nice story, great pictures. I like the human-interest story, digging in the community to share great things happening.”
Non-Daily Newspapers: Food Reporting
First Place: Catharine Kaufman “A feast for the eyes: Best foods to boost your ocular health” Del Mar Times
Judges Comment: “This was really intriguing! This is clear, crisp, smart, and helpful writing. Great job.”
Second Place: Elizabeth Marie Himchak “Rancho Bernardo to-go senior meal program going strong” Rancho Bernardo News Journal
Judges Comment: “Overall, a really nice story. It held my interest and went beyond the surface of the topic at hand.”
Non-Daily Newspapers: Gardening
First Place: Karen Billing “Del Mar Heights School garden grows on new campus”
Del Mar Times
Judges Comment: “This story captures the fun, delight and education a
school garden provides.”
Second Place: Elizabeth Marie Himchak ‘Bernardo Gardeners spring tour to provide lots of inspiration” Rancho Bernardo News Journal
Judges Comment: “This garden tour advance article makes me want to go.”
Non-Daily Newspapers: Health & Medicine
First Place: Elizabeth Marie Himchak “RB man hopes his autobiography will inspire others with medical challenges” Rancho Bernardo News Journal
Second Place: Charles Carr “Easy ways you can reduce your exposure to harmful microplastics TODAY” Charles Carr
Non-Daily Newspapers: Humor
Honorable Mention: Charles Carr “Remembering a Far From Perfect Father” Charles Carr
Non-Daily Newspapers: Multicultural
First Place: Ray Huard “$155M City Heights Refugee Campus Planned San Diego Business Journal”
Second Place: Ray Huard “Balboa Park Pavilion Celebrates Cross-Border Ties” San Diego Business Journal
Third Place: Regina Elling “560 acres near Ramona returned to Mesa Grande tribe as part of ‘Land Back’ movement” Ramona Sentinel
Non-Daily Newspapers: Profile
First Place: Karen Billing Food Network’s ‘Harry Potter Wizards of Baking’ features cake artist Carmel Valley News
Judges Comment: “Altfest’s gluten-free baking journey, presented clearly & in great detail, includes quotes & descriptive language that vividly bring her candid, enthusiastic personality to life. Lots of skill went into making profile so much fun to read.”
Second Place: Macy Meinhardt “Emerald Hills’ Martha Abraham’s Fight for Justice in Southeastern San Diego” San Diego Voice & Viewpoint
Judges Note: “The profile gives a solid, clear overview of Abraham’s life and goals, while doing it in a way that the reader can get a real feeling for Abraham as a person.
Third Place: Elizabeth Marie Himchak “Northeastern’s new police captain began his career there 30 years ago” Rancho Bernardo News Journal
Honorable Mention: Denis Grasska “‘Deacon Bob’ Made History 50 Years Ago”
The Southern Cross
Non-Daily Newspapers: Public Service/Consumer Advocacy
First Place: Regina Elling Food aid programs are stepping up efforts in Ramona as the need increases Ramona Sentinel
Non-Daily Newspapers: Real Estate
First Place: Macy Meinhardt “23 Homes, a Footnote and a Fight Over Park Space ” San Diego Voice & Viewpoint
Judges Comment: “An engaging explanation of an issue that could have otherwise made for a dull read.”
Second Place: Ray Huard “Community Groups Promote New Vision for Downtown Civic Center” San Diego Business Journal
Judges Comment: “A thorough and easy to understand explanation of
a monumental vision.”
Third Place: Julie Gallant “North Coast Church plans a 20,330-square-foot campus in Ramona” Ramona Sentinel
Judges Comment: “Appreciate the effort that went into bringing
all this information together.”
Non-Daily Newspapers: Reviews: Restaurant
First Place: Nathalie Taylor “So-Cal Chef Open – “A triumph!” Village News
Judges Comment: “Delicious looking pics. nice descriptions and quotes.”
Second Place: Nathalie Taylor “Indulge in delightful culinary creations at the San Diego County Fair!” Village News
Judges Comment: “Yum. and ramen taco…as a foodie, now I have to know what this magic is. good use of descriptions and photos.”
Non-Daily Newspapers: Reviews: Theater
First Place: Lynne Friedmann “A View from the Bridge, North Coast Repertory Theatre” CultureVulture.net
Judges Comment: “Well written, great pics. This was a tough category to score. All were equally as good.”
Second Place: ErinMarie Reiter “REGENCY GIRLS at The Old Globe” Talk Theatre To Me
Third Place: ErinMarie Reiter “3 SUMMERS OF LINCOLN at La Jolla Playhouse”
Talk Theatre To Me
Non-Daily Newspapers: Reviews: Misc.
First Place: Julie Gallant “’The Death of Us All’ celebrates nun who died protecting Amazon rainforest” Poway News Chieftain
Judges Comment: “Fascinating topic, I was interested in Stang from the beginning and would definitely like to read this book now.”
Non-Daily Newspapers: Science/Technology/Biotech
First Place: Brad Graves “Building a Lunar Economy” San Diego Business Journal
Second Place: Ray Huard “Venter Institute Moves Downtown” San Diego Business Journal
Non-Daily Newspapers: Sports
First Place: Phillip Brents “Cross country season ends on All-American note for Eastlake’s Williams” Integrity Newspapers
Second Place: Scott Hopkins “After dropping first game, Pointer baseball rolls to another CIF title” Times of San Diego
Third Place: Scott Hopkins “Dramatic win gives Pointers another CIF soccer championship” Times of San Diego
Honorable Mention: Phillip Brents “CIF girls flag football titles go to Olympian, Mater Dei Catholic” Integrity Newspapers
Non-Daily Newspapers: Travel – Domestic
First Place: Nathalie Taylor “Pala Mission – 208 years of history” Village News
Non-Daily Newspapers: Travel – International
First Place: Nathalie Taylor “Once upon a time in Sweden” Village News
Non-Daily Newspapers: Visual/Fine Arts Reporting
First Place: Julie Gallant “Japanese artist combines graphic arts and nature in Poway exhibit” Poway News Chieftain
Judges Comment: “Gallant’s piece gives the reader a strong sense of both the artist and the work, bringing her subject to life.”
Second Place: Elizabeth Marie Himchak “Rancho Bernardo Library exhibit features artist’s ‘Personal Connections’” Rancho Bernardo News Journal
Non-Daily Newspapers: Front Page Design
First Place: Edgar Rodriguez Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce
Non-Daily Newspapers: Feature Layout Design
First Place: Edgar Rodriguez Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce
Second Place: Aida Bustos, Shelly Pinomaki “You Are Not Alone” The Southern Cross
Photography – Still: News
First Place: Charlie Neuman “We Must Speak Up” The Southern Cross
Judges Comment: “A brilliant choice to resist the temptation of shooting this low. Going high gave it the impact of the crowd size. The formation of the hands of the couple in the front is striking. Fabulous work.”
Second Place: Chris Stone “Fights in the Snapdragon stands after SDFC victory” Times of San Diego
Judges Comment: “The photographer was Johnny-on-the-spot and that is half the battle. Anger in the subject’s face and jawbone are the epicenter of this photo. Great job!”
Third Place: Leonardo Enrique Fonseca “Real Presence” The Southern Cross
Judges Comment: “I get the ‘beacon of light’ symbolism, but the subject is a little too far away, and the audience in the background could stand to be a little more exposed. Otherwise, a very fine piece of work.”
Honorable Mention: Chris Stone “Memorial Day 2025 in San Diego” Times of San Diego
Judges Comment: “Well composed, but colors seem faded and photo quality not as high as it should be.”
Photography – Still: Feature – Serious Subject
First Place: David Maung “Rite” The Southern Cross
Judges Comment: “I can see the swinging motion and hear the service.”
Second Place: David Maung “Gift” The Southern Cross
Judges Comment: “What a peaceful image, the offering”
Third Place: David Maung “Tradition” The Southern Cross
Judges Comment: “Captured the moment well. I would have loved a closer view or slightly different angle, but overall, well done”
Photography – Still: Feature – Light Subject
First Place: Andy Hayt “Warm Respite” The Southern Cross
Judges Comment: “Great composition, color, light”
Second Place: Thom Vollenweider “Misty River Crossing” San Diego Union Tribune
Judges Comment: “Gorgeous colors. The movement is inviting.”
Third Place: Criselda Yee “One kite chaser actually goes airborne in his quest for the tail.” Union-Tribune Community Press
Judges Comment: “Whoa! what a shot.”
Honorable Mention: Nathalie Taylor “Cottages sit at the edge of the Baltic Sea”
Village News
Judges Comment: “Great colors, love the mirroring”
Photography – Still: Sports
First Place: P.J. Panebianco “Michael Harrison breaks a tackle against New Mexico” East Village Times
Judges Comment: “The flying dirt and the lack of noise in difficult lighting and a well-managed background are a few of the elements that make it great”
Second Place: P.J. Panebianco “Zane Kelly with the catch in center field”
East Village Times
Judges Comment: “A risky but ultimately successful composition. The signature on the wall in the background gives it a baseball feel, plus the ball is just hitting the mitt and thus visible. Very Nice.”
Third Place: Thom Vollenweider “Chasing A Loose Ball” San Diego Union Tribune
Judges Comment: “Very well composed and the intensity of the faces is what makes this photo as good as it is. Tough lighting conditions, yes, but the photo loses a point or two for noise.”
Honorable Mention: Chris Stone “Muratalla, Navarrete win Pechanga main events” Times of San Diego
Judges Comment: “Boxing is so photogenic, so a photo in this arena must really be superlative to win. This one is good, but the composition between the ropes is slightly distracting, and the shadow on the fighter’s face on the right side is bad luck”
Photography – Still: Photo Essay
First Place: Chris Stone San Diego’s Susan G. Komen 3-Day Walk 2024 Times of San Diego
Second Place: Chris Stone San Diego Rodeo at Petco Park highlight images Times of San Diego
Third Place: Chris Stone “Muratalla, Navarrete win Pechanga main events”
Times of San Diego
Honorable Mention: Sal Giametta FACES & PLACES: Comic-Con Friday 2024
The San Diego Sun
Judges Comment: “So bright and colorful. I really wanted to see their whole costumes.”
Photography – Still: Portrait
First Place: Chris Stone “Muratalla, Navarrete win Pechanga main events”
Times of San Diego
Judges Comment: “I can hear and smell this picture.”
Second Place: Chris Stone “Faces of Spirit of ’45 at Liberty Station” Times of San Diego
Judges Comment: “His face tells lifetimes of stories.”
Third Place: Lauren Di Matteo “Noris Velasquez and heritage wheat” Edible San Diego
Honorable Mention: Thom Vollenweider Twins’ Senior Portraits
The San Diego Union Tribune
Photography – Video: News
First Place: Dominique Lavigne, Michael Saucedo “OB Apartment Fire”
FOX 5 San Diego
Judges Comment: “Very simple and touching story.”
Second Place: Chris Stone, Ken Stone “Highlights of San Diego ‘No Kings’ rally and march”Times of San Diego
Honorable Mention: Macy Meinhardt, Tihut Tamrat “’Do you Hear Us?’ Encanto Residents Push Back Against Unchecked Housing Development” San Diego Voice & Viewpoint
Photography – Video: Feature – Serious subject
First Place: Brendan Cleak “How Scientists are Preparing for a Possible H5N1 Pandemic” Scripps Research
Second Place: Jennifer Franco, Michael Saucedo “Stolen Wigs” FOX 5 San Diego
Third Place: Macy Meinhardt; Tihut Tamrat “’Do you Hear Us?’ Encanto Residents Push Back Against Unchecked Housing Development” San Diego Voice & Viewpoint
Honorable Mention: Aaron Howard Salk’s transformative discovery social media video Salk Institute for Biological Studies
Photography – Video: Feature – Light subject
First Place: Brendan Cleak “Graduation Day 2025” Scripps Research Scripps Research
Second Place: Elaine Masters “Bowling Ball Beach” TripWellGal.com
Third Place: Michael Saucedo, Sarah Alegre “Migrants Attempt to board School Bus” FOX 5 San Diego
Honorable Mention: Elaine Masters“The Empress of the Deep” TripWellGal.com
Photography – Video: Photo Essay
First Place: Michael Saucedo Petco Park Rodeo FOX 5 San Diego
Judges Comment: “Cool video essay. Great high-energy visuals, concise commentary, matches visuals. I enjoyed this piece.”
Photography – Video: Portrait
First Place: Chris Keeney “Portrait of Salk Fellow Talmo Pereira: Salk Institute for Biological Studies
Judges Comment: “A refreshing alternative to the common portrait.”
PR, PIO and Trade Publication: Association/Member Publication
First Place: Staff “San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance Journal”
San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance
Second Place: Aubrey Lloyd, Mike Hausberg, Caitlin Hannah, Sara Maher, Jayoung Mackenzie, Jennifer MacEwen Wild Connections “2025 Vol. 1
San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance
PR, PIO and Trade Publication: Special Interest on One-Time Publications
First Place: Caitlin Hannah, Lisa Bissi, Chris Padilla “Nature’s Survival Instincts”
San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance
PR, PIO and Trade Publication: Newsletter
First Place: Chloe Pedersen, Mia Park “New, Now, Next Newsletter”
Ranch & Coast Magazine
Judges Comment: “If a newsletter could sparkle, this would be it! There’s such a cool vibe to it. It embodies what an effective, attractive, informative newsletter should be. Well done.”
Second Place: Salk Communications Office “Salk Newsletter” –
October & November 2024 Salk Institute for Biological Studies
Judges Comment: “This is a sophisticated and effective way to reach an audience. If I were on your mailing list, I would definitely click to open and read many of its stories. Nice work.”
Third Place: Ellie McMillan, Caitlin Hannah, Sara Maher, Jayoung Mackenzie “Notes from the Field” 2025 No. 5; Nature’s Comeback Tour San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance
Judges Comment: “What a wonderful newsletter! It’s a pleasure to both look at and read, easy to navigate, and serve the modern-day reader’s attention span.”
PR, PIO and Trade Publication: Press Release Writing-Serious Subject
First Place: Denise Scatena, Geneva Gámez
“San Diego Rotary Names Ben and Nikki Clay ‘Mr. and Mrs. San Diego 2024;” Scatena Daniels Communications
Second Place : Melissa Suran “Two HIV vaccine trials show proof of concept for pathway to broadly neutralizing antibodies” Scripps Research
Third Place: Gayle Lynn Falkenthal “Point In Time Count Results Pinpoint Solutions to Address Older Adult Homelessness” Falcon Valley Group
Honorable Mention: Denise Scatena “San Diego Blood Bank Begins 75th Anniversary Celebration” Scatena Daniels Communications
PR, PIO and Trade Publication: Press Release Writing – Light Subject
First Place: Sempra’s SDG&E Communications Team “They’re Baaaa-ck: SDG&E Deploys 300 Goats in San Diego” Sempra
Second Place: Gayle Lynn Falkenthal “Serving Seniors Leadership Transition Supports Continued Success” Falcon Valley Group
Third Place: Ann Marie Price, Connor Christiansen, Denise Scatena “GI Film Festival San Diego Celebrates 10 Years” Scatena Daniels Communications
Honorable Mention: Connor Christiansen, Denise Scatena “Torrey Pines Lacrosse Coach Jono Zissi Cements San Diego as a West Coast Powerhouse”
Scatena Daniels Communications
PR, PIO AND TRADE PUBLICATION
General Writing for External Publication
First Place: Jennifer Whitelaw “Lifesaver at the Bay” TW2 Marketing
Second Place: Ann Marie Price, Sarah Flocken “Meal deliveries for seniors save taxpayers and governments money.” Scatena Daniels Communications
Third Place: Annie Pierce “Unexpected Impact: Concussion Derails Football Dreams, Experts Help Ignite Hurdles Talent” UC San Diego Health
Honorable Mention: Jeanna Vazquez “Patient Support Program Reunites Childhood Friends” UC San Diego Health
PR, PIO and Trade Publication: General Writing for Internal Publication
First Place: Gayle Lynn Falkenthal “Farewell” Falcon Valley Group
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
PR, PIO and Trade Publication: Annual Report
First Place: Staff San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance 2024 Annual Report, “New Chapters in Conservation” San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance
Radio & Podcast: Breaking News
First Place Phil Farrar “No Kings Day: San Diego, CA ” KOGO Radio
Second Place: Veronica Carter, Ted Garcia, Lucinda Kay, Jon Fink, Dan Mitchinson “
San Diego Plane Crash May 22, 2025” KOGO Radio
Radio & Podcast: Series
First Place: Phil Farrar “McDonald’s Massacre: 40 Years Later / Gift of Life” KOGO Radio
Radio & Podcast: Feature
First Place: Phil Farrar “San Diego’s Mighty Military” KOGO Radio
Radio & Podcast: Talk/Interview/Call-in Programs
First Place: Miriam Raftery “Who will be there when they come for you?” EastCountyMagazine.org
Radio & Podcast: Podcast
First Place: Salk Communications Office “Beyond Lab Walls”
Salk Institute for Biological Studies
Judges Comment: “A brainy conversation; engaging, with considered reasons for optimism through research.”
Second Place: Jennifer Whitelaw, Suzanne Lawrence “The Finest City – Knowledge to Action / San Diego Bay” Whitelaw Marketing
Judges Comment: “Outstanding/economical exposition to create a sonic environment for well-told stories of history, environment, culture, and commerce. Conversational and informative; this judge was hooked.”
Radio & Podcast: Specialty Reporting – Single Report
First Place: Alexander Nguyen “Recent deaths put spotlight on contact sports. Should kids be playing?” KPBS News
Judges Comment: “Great storytelling, involving the injured player at the beginning and end draws in the listener — while discussing both sides of the issue in the middle.”
Second Place: Phil Farrar “Operation Frequent Wind: ‘The Fall of Saigon’” KOGO Radio Judges Comment: “Interesting piece. Would have benefitted from introducing the pilot a little earlier.”
Third Place: Lucinda Kay “Goodness – Musician Emily Marshall” KOGO Radio
Judges Comment: “Nice interview, learning about her life and performances.”
Radio & Podcast: Use of Sound
First Place: Phil Farrar “Tate Carew: ‘The Grind for Paris Olympic Gold’” KOGO Radio
Radio & Podcast: Audio Editing
First Place: Dave Drexler “Inside Art 2024: In Remembrance” KSDS-FM
Judges Comment: “The editor did a great job weaving music and interviews in and out throughout the program.”
Second Place: Phil Farrar “Mc Donald’s Massacre: Forty Years Later” KOGO Radio
Judges Comment: “Nice use of archival sound woven into today’s audio. There was some peaking, and some phone noise, but other than that, it sounded great.”
Third Place: Mike Jeffs “John Reynolds on how the brain knows the world” Salk Institute for Biological Studies
Judges Comment: “Interesting interview, with a great attempt to add interest in related audio clips. However, at times, the clips were abrupt (try fading in and out) and overpowered the speaker. Some of the speaker’s and interviewer’s levels were uneven.”
Radio & Podcast: Writing Feature
First Place: Phil Farrar “The Conclave: San Diego Catholics Wait” KOGO Radio
Second Place: Salk Communications Office “Getting to the Root of Alzheimer’s”
Salk Institute for Biological Studies
Radio & Podcast: Writing News
First Place: Phil Farrar “KOGO 12 Noon News Phil Farrar” KOGO Radio
Television & Online Video: Breaking News
First Place: Jennifer Franco, Michael Sauced “LA Jolla Flooding” FOX 5 San Diego
Second Place: Elizabeth Alvarez, David Pradel “Plane Crashes in Murphy Canyon Neighborhood” Fox 5 San Diego
Television & Online Video: Live Report
First Place: Elizabeth Alvarez, David Pradel “San Diego Honor Flight Departs to D.C.” Fox 5 San Diego
Television & Online Video: News Feature Same Day
First Place: Jennifer Franco, Michael Saucedo “Local ICE Raid” FOX 5 San Diego
Second Place: Christelle Koumoué, Joseph Ruiz “Riding Toward Hope” FOX 5 San Diego
Third Place: Alexander Nguyen, Carolyne Corelis “FBI warns of rise in ‘sextortion’ scams targeting teens” KPBS News
Television & Online Video: News Feature Pre-Produced
First Place: Christelle Koumoué, Sasha Bryhadyr” “Threads of Identity” FOX 5 San Diego
Second Place: Andrew Luria, Zak Bartleet “Live from Carlsbad, It’s CHSTV!”
FOX 5 San Diego
Third Place: Enedina Cisneros, Lindsey Peña, Maria-Camila Murcia “Schools, Families, Y La Música Que Los Une” KGTV
Third Place: Elizabeth Alvarez, David Pradel “TERI Campus of Life” Fox 5 San Diego
Honorable Mention: Christelle Koumoué, Geovanni Arreola “Riding life’s Waves”
FOX 5 San Diego
Television & Online Video: News Feature – Series
First Place: Jacob Aere, Roland Lizarondo, David Washburn, Elaine Alfaro, Brenden Tuccinardi “Soccer a la Frontera” KPBS
Second Place Elsa Elena Sevilla, Guillermo Sevilla “Historic Places the Del’s Grand Rooms Restoration” Historic Places KPBS-TV/Sevilla Productions, LLC
Third Place: Alejandra Enciso Dardashti “Theatres in San Diego: From Another Zero” From Another Zero
Television & Online Video: Specialty Reporting – Single Report
First Place: Enedina Cisneros, Lindsey Peña, Gerald Labrador, Jimmy Dedios “Historical Echoes: Deportation, Repatriation, and Finding Cultural Empowerment” KGTV
Third Place: Roberto Camacho “Police Violence Against Latinos: The Shocking Data We Now Know”Laura Flanders & Friends
Honorable Mention: Andrew Luria, Ruby Chen, Christopher Short “The Electric Prodigy: A 13-Year-Old’s Anthem for America” FOX 5 San Diego
Television & Online Video: Special Reporting – Series
First Place: Enedina Cisneros, Wale Aliyu, Gerald Labrador, Jimmy Dedios “Marie Widman: A Legacy Worth Preserving” KGTV
Third Place: Jacob Aere, Roland Lizarondo, David Washburn, Elaine Alfaro, Brenden Tuccinardi “Soccer a la Frontera” KPBS
Honorable Mention: Alexander Nguyen, Elaone Alfaro, McCoy Knapp “Fall of Sàigòn at 50: Stories of loss, legacy and identity” KPBS News
Television & Online Video: Investigative Reporting – Single Report
First Place: Tony Shin, Spencer Thornburg, Michael Saucedo “Stolen Nutcracker”
FOX 5 San Diego
Second Place: Maya Trabulsi, David Washburn, J W August “‘Wandering officer’ case highlights struggle to hold police accountable” KPBS
Third Place: JW August and David Washburn “Teed Off!” KPBS
Television & Online Video: Investigative Reporting – Series
First Place: Roberto Camacho “Police Violence Against Latinos: The Shocking Data We Now Know” Laura Flanders & Friends
Television & Online Video: Interview/Talk Show
First Place: Alejandra Enciso Dardashti, Marti Gobel “Marti Gobel, Producing Artistic Director: OnWord Theatre” From Another Zero
Second Place: Alejandra Enciso Dardashti, Gloria Calderón Kellett “Interviews From Another Zero: Gloria Calderón Kellett” From Another Zero
Television & Online Video: Documentary
First Place: Enedina Cisneros, Kimberly Hunt, Jessica Howard, Gerald Labrador, Luella Mata “Contaminated Coast: Call for Federal Action” KGTV
Second Place: Elsa Elena Sevilla, Guillermo Sevilla “Historic Places – The Del’s Restoration History” Historic Places KPBS-TV/Sevilla Productions, LLC
Television & Online Video: Sports Reporting
First Place: Alexander Nguyen, Carolyne Corelis “Recent deaths put spotlight on contact sports. Should kids be playing?” KPBS News
Judges Comment: “EXCELLENT!”
Second Place: Jacob Aere, Roland Lizarondo, David Washburn, Elaine Alfaro, Brenden Tuccinardi “Soccer a la Frontera / Soccer a la Frontera — Episode 3: Women’s soccer takes root” KPBS
Third Place: Frank Jefferson, Michael Saucedo “EA Sports College Football 2025”
FOX 5 San Diego
Honorable Mention: Gayle Lynn Falkenthal “Emiliano Vargas Chases His Dreams”
NY Fights
Television & Online Video: Video Editing
First Place: Michael Saucedo, Juliette Vara “Battling Wildfire from above”
FOX 5 San Diego
Second Place: David Pradel “Visiting the House of Puerto Rico at Balboa Park”
Fox 5 San Diego
Television & Online Video: Writing Feature
First Place: Andrew Luria “Live from Carlsbad, It’s CHSTV!” FOX 5 San Diego
Second Place: Enedina Cisneros, Gerald Labrador, Isaac Cadriel “Man Swims Through Historic Flood to Rescue Cats” KGTV
Website: News Site
First Place: Staff The San Diego Union-Tribune
Judges Comment: “This is a clean website with things that are easy to find. It’s not clogged up by advertisements. The topics are strong, and the writing is tight.”
Second Place: Chris Jennewein and Staff Times of San Diego
Third Place: Ron Donoho The San Diego Sun
Website: Entertainment Site
First Place: Ron James Wine Dine & Travel Magazine
Second Place: Rob Marlbrough (web designer), Susanna Peredo Swap (content editor) Vanguard Culture
Third Place: Mark Burgess, Ken Herman, David Dixon SanDiegoStory.com
Website: General Interest Site
First Place: Chloe Pedersen, Bob Stefanko, Mia Park, Anya Shah
Ranch & Coast Magazine
Second Place: Staff San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance Story Hub
San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance
Third Place: Katie Stokes, Maria Hesse, Wallendorf Studios Edible San Diego
Website: Blog for/by Corporation or Group
First Place: Carl Nettleton, Shauna Buffington” The Transition” OpenOceans Global
Website: Blog: Topic Based
First Place: Tom Gable San Diego Wine Guru
Second Place: Cassiopeia Guthrie On The Craft
Website: Overall Use of Design
First Place: Scripps Research Communications Office Winter 2025 – Scripps Research Magazine Landing Page Scripps Research
Second Place: Staff Catholic Diocese of San Diego website The Southern Cross
Third Place: Ron James Wine Dine & Travel Magazine
COLLEGE
Print: Best Newspaper
First Place: CTM Staff
City Times Media | San Diego City College
Print: Best Magazine
First Place: Staff
The Summit |Grossmont College
Judges Comment: “The variety of content was impressive, providing a topical overview of issues, events, elections, tips with a balance of entertaining and serious content. The visuals were a highlight, drawing the reader into the content. The piece on immigration enforcement was especially impressive, as was the look at the closure of a pool and its impact on students. Sports coverage was also well done.”
College – Print: News
First Place: Alexa Lima “Enrollment management meltdown”
The Sun | Southwestern College
Judges Comment: “Loved the stories. Lots of useful information.”
Second Place: Carla Gutierrez “Mexico’s femicide fury”
The Sun | Southwestern College
Judges Comment: “Great looking. Sharp layout. Excellent content.”
Third Place: CTM Staff “LIVE UPDATES: City College community goes to the polls (with video)”
City Times Media | San Diego City College
Judges Comment: “Nice looking page. Clean layout, useful information.”
Honorable Mention: Sydney Brammer “Annoyed by fees? Here’s why some majors cost more than others” The Point | Point Loma Nazarene University
Judges Comment: “Excellent info. It’s important that you’re covering topics essential to students.”
College – Print: Feature
First Place: Alfonso Julián Camacho, Dira Wong “Despair envelops Tijuana refugees” The Sun | Southwestern College
Second Place: Alexa Lima “National City’s immortal ‘Angel Baby’” The Sun | Southwestern College
Third Place: Blanca Esthela Castañeda Garcia “Godfather of Chicano theater” The Sun | Southwestern College
Honorable Mention: Natalia Plaza “A brief shining moment” The Sun | Southwestern College
College – Print: Column
First Place: Alfonso Julian Camacho The Sun | Southwestern College
Judges Comment: “Superb pieces. Excellent choice of subject. Heartfelt writing — which, of course, is the difference between great column writing and the news.”
Second Place: Zeke Watson The Sun | Southwestern College
Judges Comment: “Very good. Excellent perspective.”
College – Print: Investigative
First Place: Xiomara Santospieve
“AI bots stealing classes, FAFSA” The Sun | Southwestern College
Second Place: The Sun Staff
“Students, librarians speak out about rats” The Sun | Southwestern College
Third Place: Diego Higuera
“PLNU again on ‘worst’ list” The Sun | Southwestern College
Honorable Mention: Diego Higuera
“As SWC reading levels drop, support system withers away” The Sun | Southwestern College
College – Print: Opinion/Category
First Place: Alexa Lima
“Clawing back hard-earned speech rights” The Sun | Southwestern College
Second Place: Alexa Lima
“Gun violence steals young Americans’ futures and dreams” The Sun | Southwestern College
Third Place: Alexa Lima, Anahy J. Gutierrez
“We need gov board to work together” The Sun | Southwestern College
Honorable Mention: Tyra Lawley
“MTS’s new policies won’t make them more money” City Times Media | San Diego City College
College – Print: Reviews
First Place: Alexa Lima
“Michelangelo of metal” The Sun | Southwestern College
Judges Comment: “Informative, knowledgeable, and compelling. Made me curious to visit the installation!”
Second Place: David J. Bohnet
“San Diego City theatre department delivers raw, emotional performance “Stupid F##king Bird” City Times Media | San Diego City College
Judges Comment: “I enjoyed this writer’s perspective of the play and knowledge of theater. Well-written.”
Third Place: Toni Gibson “GLORIOUS GLORIA”
The Sun | Southwestern College
Judges Comment: ” I saw this play and had no idea that the cast was sick! Kudos to their professionalism. I enjoyed this writer’s analysis of the plot, songs, and performances.”
Honorable Mention: Lesley Garcia
“Sabrina Carpenter’s “”Short n’ Sweet”” is bold, unserious, and so much fun” The Daily Aztec | San Diego State University
Judges Comment: “Not a huge fan of Ms. Carpenter but this writer’s research on her Background and songs made for an ‘unserious’ read!”
College – Print: Sports
First Place: Julio Rodriguez
“From bowler to bowl games” The Sun | Southwestern College
Judges Comment: “A beautiful story of perseverance and heart. This was a difficult category to judge, because all the entries were excellent.”
Second Place: Jose Guzman
“Set shot superhero” The Sun | Southwestern College
Judges Comment: “The Southwestern College women’s soccer team is a class act. Sports bring out character in those who participate. The women Jaguars’ soccer/basketball team is a heartwarming, feel-good story about teamwork, friendship, and commitment. This was a difficult category to judge, because all the entries were excellent.”
Third Place: Valeryah Lara-Urrea
“Cheerleaders a welcome sight” The Sun | Southwestern College
Judges Comment: “A surprising and charming sports story told with wonderful cheerleading Heart and spirit. This was a difficult category to judge, because all the entries were excellent.”
Honorable Mention: Danny Straus
“Brother of Padres star making his own name at City College” City Times Media | San Diego City College
Judges Comment: “A great story about the younger brother of Padres All-Star Fernando Tatis playing baseball for San Diego City College. This was a difficult category to judge, because all the entries were excellent.”
College – Print: Photography
First Place: Mijail Jones
“Otherworldly dance” The Sun | Southwestern College
Judges Comment: “Outstanding use of shadows and contrast in feature photo…an otherworldly photograph”
Second Place: Sisy Sannoh
“Montse la Maravilla” The Sun | Southwestern College
Judges Comment: “This photo captures sight and sound…motion and rhythm”
Third Place: Yanelli Zavina Robles
“Pompom powerhouses” The Sun | Southwestern College
Judges Comment: “This is, plain and simple, a very cute picture”
Honorable Mention: Nadia Lavin
“City College’s Students for Justice in Palestine organize ‘Dabke Dance’ flashmob protest” City Times Media | San Diego City College
Judges Comment: “Powerful image of protest and anger”
College – Print: Drawing, Illustration or Cartoon
First Place: Carla Labto
“National City’s Immortal ‘Angel Baby’” The Sun | Southwestern College
Judges Comment: “This illustration captures the eye. It could even be called “”iconic.”” This is an engaging portrait of one of National City’s own who made it big – a perfect illustration to the story.”
Second Place: Carla Labto
“I stand to honor my military family” The Sun | Southwestern College
Judges Comment: “This illustration is a sensitive depiction of the conflicts and tensions surrounding the topic of the piece: “”Being a Black Veteran.”” The image of the young man saluting the flag is poignant – and the subtle shadow of a uniformed service member adds to its depth.”
Third Place: Luke Bradbury, Danny Straus
“WHAT THE CANDIDATES SAY: Housing, homelessness on the City College Community Agenda, November 2024” City Times Media | San Diego City College
Honorable Mention: Carla Labto
“Doing right by Native Americans” The Sun | Southwestern College
Judges Comment: “This illustration, showing a spirit being rising from a ceremonial fire, was drawn with cultural sensitivity and respect. The crowd watching is interesting due to their varied expressions. It is an interesting and engaging image.”
College – Print: Cover Design
First Place: El Sol Staff El Sol Magazine XV The Sun | Southwestern College
Judges Comment: “Superb composition and use of color.”
Second Place: El Sol Staff El Sol Magazine XIV The Sun | Southwestern College
College – Print: Photo Essay
First Place: Yanelli Zavina Robles, Dira Marie Wong, Cristian Piñeda, Sahra Quiroga
“Las Chicanas of Chicano Park” The Sun | Southwestern College
Judges Comment: “Impressive use of photographs to help tell the story of Las Chicanas of Chicano Park. Wonderful layout.”
Second Place: Keila Menjivar Zamora, Bailey Kohnen
“GALLERY: City College faculty, students among protesters against mass deportations”
City Times Media | San Diego City College
Judges Comment: “Powerful images add impact to mass deportation protest essay.”
College – Print: Feature Layout Story
First Place: Yanelli Zavina Robles, Dira Maria Wong, Cristian Piñeda, Sahra Quiroga”
“Las Chicanas of Chicano Park” The Sun | Southwestern College
Judges Comment: “Colorful, interesting photos set the mood for the story. This was a difficult category to judge, because all the entries were excellent.”
Second Place: Julio Rodriguez “From bowler to bowl games”
The Sun | Southwestern College
Judges Comment: “Full page image of Luis Perez in Chargers uniform explains the story in a single photo. It’s a grabber! This was a difficult category to judge, because all the entries were excellent.”
Third Place: Luz Maria Clayton, Ivan Medida, Andrea Aladin, Alfonso Julián Camacho
“National City’s Immortal ‘Angel Baby’” The Sun | Southwestern College
Judges Comment: “Good balance of images and text. Interesting history of Rosie and the Originals. This was a difficult category to judge, because all the entries were excellent.”
Honorable Mention: Luz Maria Clayton, Ivan Medida, Andrea Aladin, Alfonso Julián Camacho “I stand to honor my military family” The Sun | Southwestern College
Judges Comment: “Layout makes the story very readable. Extensive use of drop quotes. This was a difficult category to judge, because all the entries were excellent.”
College: TV & Online Video Newscast: General News Story
First Place: CTM Staff “AUDIO: Trump’s Executive Orders, SDCCD Chancellor Greg Smith on the Knights Community Round Table”
City Times Media | San Diego City College
Judges Comment: “Although it was difficult to hear the student editors question the SDCCD Chancellor in this Community Round Table, the scope of their conversation was broad and lively.”
College: TV & Online Video Newscast
First Place: CTTV Staff “NEWSCENE: New parking laws coming to San Diego, holiday travel surging, spring registration opening” City Times Media | San Diego City College
Second Place: CTTV Staff “NEWSCENE: State, San Diego election results continue to come in”
City Times Media | San Diego City College SDSun
