The Beacon Journal becomes a historic siteWhat started out as an overcast May day soon brightened as the plaque dedicated to the memory of John Shively Knight honoring the Beacon Journal as a Historic Site was unveiled.
The National Society of Professional Journalists, Sigma Delta Chi, recognizes people or events of outstanding significance in the history of American journalism. On May 25, two journalism greats were honored - the Beacon Journal as a great newspaper and John S. Knight, who made it great.
During the hour-long ceremony attended by about 400 people, friends and co-workers paid tribute to Mr. Knight through their speeches and words of praise. But all agreed that JSK probably did more for journalism, newspapering, setting standards, and reaching goals than any other person.
"His column (Editor's Notebook) was given the accolade of the Pulitzer Prize. To those of us who've taken an active role in the Society of Professional Journalists, Sigma Delta Chi, John Knight's record has distinguished him as a giant," said Charles Novitz, National President of Sigma Delta Chi.
After the dedication of the plaque, Mayor Roy Ray hosted a luncheon for several community leaders, employees and friends who came from far and near to be a part of this historic event.
To conclude this memorable day, the John S. Knight Awards banquet was held at the Tangier. This year, instead of naming a new recipient for the award, Mr. Knight and winners during the past 15 years were honored. Past winners have included:
1974 - Ben Maidenburg, Robert Dix
1975 - Eddie Butler, Murray Powers
1976 - Frances B. Murphey
1977 - Kenneth Nichols, Loris Troyer
1978 - James L. Jackson, Clayton G. Horn
1979 - Elinor M. Taylor, Philip J. Dietrich
1980 - Albert E. Fitzpatrick, Angelo R. Sicuro
1981 - Kenneth F. Cole, Robert Lane
This was a proud day for Akron, a proud day for the Beacon Journal and a proud day for honoring the memory of the man who made it all happen, John Shively Knight.
[From Tower Topics, employee publication of the Beacon Journal, May-June, 1982]
"JSK probably did more for journalism, newspapering, setting standards, and reaching goals than any other person."
ReplyDeleteIt's too bad the current not-Knight leadership doesn't follow Jack Knight's example.