The North Coast Current was recognized for local news excellence with seven awards Wednesday, July 17, from the Society of Professional Journalists San Diego Pro Chapter.

The Current won second place online News Site in the contest’s Digital category. Contest judges commended the site for its ease of navigation and crisp design.

Contributing writers won first and third place awards in nondaily environmental reporting. Cameron Niven received first place for his in-depth story “Environmental hot water? Local ocean temperatures hitting historic highs,” about record high local ocean temperatures in 2018. Meghan Lanigan received third place for “San Elijo Lagoon might appear in jeopardy now, but it’s all part of a plan,” a story about restoration of San Elijo Lagoon.

“This detailed look at rising ocean temperatures not only lays out the story, but explores what is causing the conditions and how it could impact the environment in the future,” contest judges noted about Niven’s ocean temperature story. “A well-researched piece written in understandable terms for the average reader.”

Lanigan’s piece about changes at San Elijo Lagoon received similar praise.

“This story demonstrates the important role of journalism as an explainer of what is going on,” they noted. “It informs the public and helps them from jumping to false conclusions. Good job.”

Contributor Joel Vaughn won first place nondaily political/government story for “Carlsbad council hopefuls weigh impact of district-based voting,” about the city’s transition to district-based City Council seats during the 2018 election.

Contributor Lauren J. Mapp won first place for her nondaily food story “Roasters brewing up artisan coffee movement in North County,” about the growth of local independent coffee roasters.

North Coast Current Publisher and Editorial Director won second and third place awards for headline writing.

The Society of Professional Journalists is a national organization representing print, online and broadcast journalists, journalism educators and students. More information about the San Diego Pro Chapter can be found online at spjsandiego.org.

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