The Center for Inquiry-Portland awarded The Malcontent’s Gambit the 2012 Award for Best Northwest Podcast. I gratefully accepted the award from coordinator Sylvia Benner during the Secular Summer Picnic on Saturday, July 14, at Laurelhurst Park in Portland, Ore. Approximately 100 people attended the event, which was sponsored by CFI-Portland and the Humanists of Greater Portland.
I’m truly honored and surprised. CFI-Portland initially announced the award during its Sunday, July 1 VIP and Volunteer party in Portland. I was vacationing in Hawaii at the time, and a friend who attended the party sent me a text message informing me that I had won. I slathered on some more SPF 100 sunscreen, poured myself a glass of wine and toasted to CFI and my success.
At the picnic, Benner gave me a certificate that reads, “In recognition of outstanding dedication to science, reason, and secular values in the Pacific Northwest.” I couldn’t be more pleased and honored.
I have only received one award prior to this. In high school I won the junior varsity 1,500 meter run at the Portland city finals. I attribute my success to coaches moving as many athletes as possible up to the varsity level for a competitive edge. (I recall my time being rather slow for a junior runner, too.)
I’d like to take a moment and thank the entire CFI-Portland leadership team for their time developing events, curriculum and a reason-safe environment: Sylvia Benner, coordinator; Renee Barnett, education; Kurt Johansen, treasurer; Jay Klein, development; Ryan Marquez, Campus Outreach; Jon Peters, member-at-large; Barry Ruffin, minority outreach; Dani Tofte, communications; Brock Wilson, community programs.
I’m currently working on my next podcast, which I will broadcast at the end of this month. I hope you enjoy it, and look forward to your questions and comments. A big thanks to CFI-Portland and all my readers and listeners.
