Simply Stated

The Press Club of Houston has notified several Houston Presswriters that they are finalists in this year's statewide Lone Star journalism awards competition.

Finalists for Print Journalist of the Year included Press staff writer Josh Harkinson and former staff writer Sarah Fenske. Harkinson was honored for "Thrilled to Death," "Ship Wrecked" and "HCCS's Gift Basket Bonanza." Fenske's work included "The Killer Next Door," "Ground Zero" and "Black and White."

Harkinson also was a finalist in the Business Story category for "Ship Wrecked."

Editor Margaret Downing was named a finalist in two categories as well. She and freelancer Bob Burtman were finalists in the Business Story category for "A Closer Look at Dillard's."

Downing also was a finalist in the Editorials category for "Beggars Can't Be Choosers."

Former staff writer Michael Serazio was a finalist in the Feature Story category for "Gambling on Iraq."

Theater critic D.L. Groover was a finalist for "One Screwy Family."

And University of Houston student Ray Hafner, writing for the Press, was a finalist in the student category of News, Sport or Feature Story for "Package Deal."

The Lone Star Awards are given in print, television, radio, public relations, online and student categories to outlets throughout the state of Texas. Winners will be announced at a June 18 banquet at the University of Houston-Hilton.