WESTPORT — Three Westport Journal writers have been recognized in the 2024 “Excellence in Journalism” contest sponsored by the Connecticut chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists.

The award winners and their work, cited in the SPJ contest’s Division C for small news outlets, are:

Thane Grauel, the Journal’s former editor, for “Tragedy averted: 28 rowers rescued from frigid waters.” 

The May 21, 2024, report recounted the dramatic rescue of rowers from three rowing sculls and a chase boat from the Saugatuck Rowing Club that took on water near Cockenoe Island after a sudden change in the weather.

The report was awarded first place in the “Breaking News” category.

Gretchen Webster, for “Should town step back from closing off Church Lane?”

The July 3, 2024, report examined the contentious issue of whether closing a downtown street to traffic, from spring through fall, was a help or hindrance to area businesses and the implications for related parking and traffic issues.

The report was awarded third place in the “Business” category.

Linda Conner Lambeck, for “Couple confronts school officials over racist bullying at Staples.”

The Feb. 16, 2024, report spotlighted the emotional allegations of racist bullying that a Black couple told the Board of Education their child routinely was subjected to at Staples High School, raising questions about how the school district addresses the problem.

The report was awarded third place in the “Education” category.

“It is gratifying to see our work being recognized as ‘excellent’ by our peers in the news business,” said Doug Weber, Westport Journal publisher.