Michael Collins won First Place for 2002’s best Investigative/Series for papers under 100,000 circulation for his “Rocketdyne Ranch” expose in the Ventura County Reporter.

Judges’ comments: A thorough and well-written report, which even included the reporter using his own nuclear radiation monitor to find radiation that had been overlooked in previous inspections.

The Winning Series:

ROCKETDYNE RANCHBATTLEGROUND AHMANSON RANCHROCKETDYNE – IT’S THE PITSDON’T BANK ON IT

Gala attendee inspects "Rocketdyne Ranch" expose on display in main hall.
Gala attendee inspects "Rocketdyne Ranch" expose on display in main hall.

Former Los Angeles Press Club President, Bill Rosendahl, presents Collins with a "cheeseboard" slang for the First Place plaque that winners take home from the annual gala.
Former Los Angeles Press Club President, Bill Rosendahl, presents Collins with his award.