AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2025 | 9 was also writing for at the same time—although we only recently discovered that fact. To become pro cient at my cra , I completed dozens of college writing courses; attended a dozen more writers conferences; and, in recent years, enrolled in 40-plus online classes learning about a variety of genres, including copywriting, op-eds and essays (one of my nonmusic essays was published in the “Chicken Soup for the Soul: My Clever, Curious, Caring Cat” book in 2021). I may never amass a body of publication credits like Ken or Marcia have because managing this magazine gives me less time to write. However, I do contribute at least one piece to each issue. So, one of the most memorable moments of my journalism career happened at the American Smooth Jazz Awards in 2010 when I won the “Journalist of the Year” award. I take as much pride in my writing as I do in publishingSmooth Jazz News. My goal as the publisher is to give our readers the most accurate, informative and engaging content possible. at’s why I seek writers whose work I admire, and I am proud of their achievements. I felt complimented when Marcia encouraged me to enter some of my articles into a writing competition. “I would like to suggest that you or Ken submit for this year’s San Diego Press Club,” she said. “ at piece you did about the Catalina career when Island JazzTrax Festival in 2024 was a wonderful feature. And, Ken’s work is always sincere, knowledgeable and informative. Deserving work is deserving work.” Well, the deadline to enter the San Diego Press Club’s contest is Aug. 4, a few days a er this issue of Smooth Jazz News has been published. e winners will be announced on Oct. 28. I’ll let you know if I make the submission deadline. Wish me luck!
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