I received a phone call from Merle Beranczyk last week.

He is the current president of the National Newspaper Association. A publisher in Salida, Colorado, I hadn’t talked with Merle since the National convention in Omaha three years ago.

Also on the call was my good friend, Bob Sweeney, a publisher from the Denver area. After exchanging pleasantries, Merle said he had some good news for me.

I thought it had something to do with the convention being held in Phoenix this September.

“Alan, we’re calling you to tell you that you’re the recipient of the Amos Award for 2013,” Merle said.

“Congratulations, Alan,” echoed Bob.

I told them both I was humbled and appreciative of receiving what I knew was a special honor in the community newspaper field. I had previously nominated Bob for the award, which he received in 2009.

Recognized as the highest and most dignified tributes in community journalism, the award is presented to a working or retired newspaperman who has provided distinguished service and leadership to the community press and their community. There is a similar award for women called the McKinney award.

Both awards will be presented during the business luncheon Sept. 14 at the convention.

After the association made the announcement on Wednesday, I started getting congratulatory e-mails from publishers all over the country.

I replied to one, Larry Atkinson, from Mobridge, South Dakota, by saying the award was unexpected because I have basically been inactive with the association since my Deep Brain Stimulation surgery.

He replied, “Even though you haven’t been as active as in the past you are being recognized for your contribution to our profession and that’s what this award is all about, You’re most deserving of it.”

That made me feel better about receiving the award.

I later found out that my editor, Michael Scharnow, had nominated me for the award, with additional letters of recommendation about my community involvement from Council- woman Cassie Hansen and former Mayor Jerry Miles.

Thanks to all of you.

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