California Newspaper Publishers Association announces annual awards

The California Newspaper Publishers Association announced its award winners for its annual journalism contest, and I am grateful to have multiple stories recognized.

I received 1st place in Writing for “Lost Ship of the Desert.” Here’s what the judges said:

Though lengthy, the excellent reporting, writing and presentation carry the reader through and craft an engaging, informative article that leaves the reader wanting more.

I also earned 2nd place honors as the editor on a series of two stories on sexual harassment and assault at Coachella and Stagecoach music festivals. Here’s what the judges said:

When The Desert Sun staff noticed discrepancies in reported statistics of sexual assault/harassment at the Coachella music festival, the publication decided to conduct its own investigation into the matter. Reporters surveyed a high sample of Coachella attendees to determine a more a more accurate assessment of the problem. It is commendable that, in a nod to transparency, the Sun included information as to how it conducted the investigation and what survey questions were asked to attendees.