File photo | The Business Journal took home multiple awards at the annual Alliance of Area Business Publishers (AABP) Editorial Excellence Awards on Tuesday, May 19.

Business Journal reporter Frank Lopez brought home the gold at the 2026 Alliance of Area Business Publishers (AABP) Editorial Excellence Awards.

Lopez was awarded gold for the small dailies category of “Best Coverage of Local Breaking News” for his stories covering local reaction to immigration enforcement in January.

“The reporter provided strong sourcing and vivid details from farmers illustrating the immediate fear and labor disruptions rippling through the agricultural community within a short period of time,” according to a judge’s comment.

The awards slideshow highlighted two of the articles Lopez wrote, the first was about how Border Patrol operations and social media rumors sparked Central Valley migrant fears, causing work absences, protests and confusion.

The second was about how Border Patrol operations in Kern County sparked social media panic over rumored immigrant raids, though officials denied ICE involvement.

The Business Journal also took home two silver awards and a bronze in the following categories (including judge’s comments):

Silver:

Best Overall Design – Small Tabloids

Gabriel Dillard, Cecilia Lopez, Israel Meave

“The dynamic range of front-page compositions establish an immediate sense of energy and intent, offering a fresh visual approach for each issue. Large bold headlines anchor the pages, provide visual entry points, and help establish an elevated sense of visual hierarchy. The thoughtful use of color paired with creative photography, like coffee beans and wine, further elevate the overall design.”

Best Beat Reporting, Economics and Finance

“Shark Tank investor Kevin O’Leary endorses Hanford
doc’s diabetes education startup; FFB Bank anticipates hit to merchant services but will follow FDIC path; SBA to require citizenship verification for loans, local lenders say compliance will continue”;

Ben Hensley, reporter, Dylan Gonzales, reporter

“These reporters handle a variety of stories with a clear voice – sifting through banking regulations to explain an announced consent decree on a local lender – and a light touch – showcasing a promising startup endorsed by TV’s “Mr. Wonderful.”

Bronze:

Best Newspaper – Small Tabloids

Gabriel Dillard, Cecilia Lopez, Israel Meave

“Interesting cover stories grab attention, particularly the thoughtful feature on the closing of a local wine distributor. The People on the Move section does a nice job of highlighting the community, while Executive Profile offers deeper introductions. Cover photo illustrations for “The Final Pour” and “Startup Grind” were particularly noteworthy.”