Start the Presses: Sometimes an editor and his staff earn the right to party

The Glendale News-Press also took home an award for its government affairs coverage, largely because of reporter Melanie Hicken’s coverage of the issues regarding Advanced Development and Investment Inc.

ADI’s subcontractors were linked to thousands of dollars in campaign contributions to sitting City Council members. This would not normally be an issue but for the fact that ADI is accused of bilking Glendale — among other cities — of millions of dollars from affordable housing projects. Our stories forever changed the way the city does business, forcing it to be more transparent about contributions.

Additionally, both the Leader and La Cañada Valley Sun websites received first-place awards in their categories, with the brand-new Pasadena Sun receiving a second-place nod for its online coverage.

In addition, the Pasadena Sun received second place in one of the CNPA’s marquee categories: General Excellence. This is an astounding feat for a paper yet to reach its first birthday.

Together, these awards show our commitment to getting at the truth, serving our communities, and advocating for more and better transparency in our local governments.

Are we perfect? Far from it. Could we do more? Of course.

But our journalism peers believe we’re doing a heck of a good job, and that feels really good.

DAN EVANS is the editor. He not only knows the way to San Jose, but the way back. You can find him at dan.evans@latimes.com or (818) 637-3234.