In yesterday’s mail I received a large envelope from my state representative, Ron Hood. Upon opening it I discovered I have received a certificate of recognition by The General Assembly of Ohio for winning the 2016 Independent Author Network Book of the Year in non-fiction/history. Obviously the assembly does not have enough to do, but I appreciate the award anyway!

Here is the full text of the document:

On behalf of the House of Representatives of the 131st General Assembly of Ohio, we are pleased to pay tribute to Gerhard Maroscher on winning the non-fiction/history category of the 2016 Independent Author Network Book of the Year Awards.

A creative and talented individual, you have demonstrated exemplary initiative, enthusiasm, and perseverance in developing and sharing  your skills, and as a result, your book, entitled “Why Can’t Somebody Just Die Around Here?” won first place  in the non-fiction/history category of this year’s IAN Book of the Year Awards. Your unwavering commitment to literary excellence has earned you a reputation as a truly gifted author, and you are deserving of high praise.

You have worked tirelessly to develop your special talents of expression, and through your writing, you have touched, inspired, a gained the respect of many. Your success is a justifiable source of pride for you and your community, and we are certain that as you further pursue your interests, you will continue to make invaluable contributions to your community and to the world around you.

Thus, with sincere pleasure, we commend you for tremendous achievement and salute you as a fine Ohioan.

[The Seal of Ohio]

Signatures by Representative Ron Hood of House District 78, Representative Gary K. Scherer of House District 92, and Clifford A. Rosenberger, speaker Ohio House of Representatives.

Update: this recognition has been mentioned in the Circleville Herald, Gerhard’s hometown newspaper!