Kirkland Reporter Staff Writer Kendall Watson was recently honored with two Northwest Excellence in Journalism awards from the Society of Professional Journalists at the Western Washington Pro Chapter’s Annual Awards Banquet.

The gala, which drew more than 200 journalists, editors and scholarship winners, was held May 30 at the Meydenbauer Center in Bellevue.

Watson received first place in the Editorials category for his piece, “Time to let Malkandi go.” In addition, he received second place in the Minorities category for his story, “Juanita family pleads for mercy.”

“I have been very impressed and proud of Kendall’s quality reporting,” said Mike Walter, Kirkland Reporter publisher. “I am pleased to see that he was recognized for his great work with these awards.”