Major kudos goes to Jesus Sanchez of The Eastsider LA! It was announced yesterday he’s being honored by the Los Angeles chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists as one of five “Distinguished Journalist” winners of the year. His work in the category of “Distinguished Work in New Media” earned him this top spot, and is among other fine honorees in different categories, including Lisa Bartley (ABC7 investigative producer), Bob Moon (radio’s Marketplace), Bob Pool (LA Times), and Howard Fine (LA Business Journal).

Sanchez’s background includes 25 years in the journalism business, and was one of the LA Times newsroom’s first online reporters. And of course, he lives in Echo Park!

All the award winners will receive their honors in the spring.

Click here to read more about the awards and its winners on LA Observed.