Gift

Many thanks to Ben Martin for giving me an early Christmas gift by naming me as "Best Association Blogger for 2007." This is the second year in a row that I have taken home this award (and I will remind everyone that since Ben is not in the running for his own awards, there really should be an asterisk next to my name on this one). But he did say some nice things about my blogging:

Jamie makes time to post to one of his blogs virtually every day, and his posts are almost zero fluff. From book reviews, to citing posts on ASAE & The Center's executive management listserv, to the Harvard Business Review, J-Nott covers important issues for association leaders.

It really is nice to be acknowledged by Ben. He's a very smart guy, cares about associations a lot, and knows his social media. Thanks again, Ben.

And congrats to the other winners this year, notably Maddie Grant, who won best new blogger among the fiercest competition in several years, and Jeff De Cagna who won for best single blog post (which he just reprinted on his blog--yes! Jeff is blogging again!).

But now I could like to cash in my new celebrity status and strongly suggest to Ben that he add one more award, and that is Best Commenter. For that award I have only one nomination: Virgil Carter. Not only does Virgil occasionally post to the Acronym blog, he is one of the most consistent commenters around. His comments are always thoughtful, and he also comments a LOT. The volume of comments like his has been critical to the growth of association blogging in general, so in addition to the acknowledgment that Ben gives to the bloggers, the commenters also need some credit. Thanks Virgil!

Comments

[Lisa Junker]

Thanks so much for thinking of Virgil, Jamie! He's been such a great addition to Acronym this year; we're very grateful he agreed to blog with us, and I particularly appreciate his work as a commenter. He takes the time to comment in depth on posts he agrees with (and disagrees with), and his posts do a lot to raise the level of conversation on Acronym and elsewhere.

Congratulations on being this year's Best Association Blogger, as well!

[Virgil Carter]

Jamie, congratulations on your award for the second year--richly deserved. The blogosphere has so many energetic and dedicated contributors. It's a rich and rewarding environment. My congratulations to all who contribute and participate.

Thanks, too for your supportive comments (and Lisa's).

Happy new year to one and all--I hope it is a year of achievement and reward for all.

Cheers!

[Ben]

Jamie, duly noted. As I mentioned in my post, I haven't been watching comments as much this year as in previous. This being the case, I've missed probably 90% of Virgil's comments. I will take your word for it.