Writer of the Year
Matt Johanson

Congratulations to Matt Johanson for winning OWAC Writer of the Year once again for his body of work judged superior in several categories.

This year the OWAC Excellence in Craft Awards program received 50 entries in 7 categories. Winners received a certificate and cash prize of $100 for 1st place and $50 for 2nd place.

Category Winners

Category 1: News Article

1^st:    Matt Johanson – These Black Californians blazed trails in the outdoors

2^nd:  Bob Semerau – Bluefin Bite goes limit-style on Fortune Charter

Category 2: Feature Article

1^st:    Jody Martin – The Stars In Our Eyes

2^nd:  John Poimiroo – Cycling California’s Royal Road

Category 3: Photography/Artwork – People

1^st:    Phil Reedy – Lessons From Grandpa

2^nd:  John Williamson – Spenker Family Farm

Category 4: Photography/Artwork – Nature

1^st:    Nancy Sorrells – Red-eyed Tree Frog

2^nd:  Mercedes Lilienthal – Stunning Alaska and 2024 Alcan 5000 INEOS Grenadier Vehicle

Category 5: California Conservation Article

1^st:    Chuck Graham – Fly, Eagles Fly

2^nd:  Barbara Steinberg – California Rambling: Wildflowers adorn California landscapes

Category 6: OWAC Conference-Related Work

1^st:    Matt Johanson – Rafting the Tuolumne

2^nd:  Barbara Steinberg – California Rambling: International Sportsmans Expo Sacramento 2024 is more than you imagine

Category 7: Audio & Video

1^st:    Lara Kaylor – CaliforniaFallColor.com

2^nd:  Matt Johanson – Adventures of Detour: A Pacific Crest Trail Journey