Southeast Missourian accepting nominations for Spirit of America Award

The Southeast Missourian is accepting nominations for its 12th annual Spirit of America Award.

Begun in 2003, the award recognizes people who have demonstrated a patriotic commitment to service through the military or community involvement.

Civic organizations are encouraged to submit nominations. The nominating organization of the award recipient will receive $1,000. Individuals also are welcome to nominate a candidate. If nominated by an individual, the winner will select a charitable organization to receive the cash prize. Nominees from past years who have not received the award may be nominated again.

"We've had the great pleasure of recognizing some outstanding individuals over the years," said Southeast Missourian editor Bob Miller. "The Spirit of America Award is a continuation of the newspaper's effort to shine a light on wonderful people. We single one person out every year, but the truth is our communities are rich with great folks. People think of the media only covering negative or controversial issues, but we make a habit of reporting the virtues of our community. The Spirit of America Award is a great way to add to Cape's Fourth of July traditions, and raise up an individual who has contributed in profound ways to our American way of life."

The deadline for nominations is June 12. The nominees will be announced in the newspaper July 3, and the award recipient will be recognized July 4. More details will be released later regarding the time and location.

The 2013 recipient was Ken Bender, a World War II veteran and active member of the community through board memberships and civic clubs.

Past recipients include John "Doc" Yallaly, Dr. Dan Cotner, Melvin Gateley, Neal Edwards, James Harnes Sr., Jane Randol Jackson, Harry Rediger, Rob Callahan, David Hitt and Kent Zickfield.

"The roster of those who have been recognized is an impressive one," said Southeast Missourian publisher Jon K. Rust. "There are many people who display their American spirit through dedicated work behind the scenes over many years. They don't seek recognition. Others are more visible in their efforts. We are looking to recognize both kinds of efforts. If you know someone who should be honored, we encourage you to nominate him or her. Just reading the descriptions of everyone who is nominated every year is inspirational. By nominating someone, you can help us tell their inspirational story."

Nominations may be submitted online at semissourian.com/forms/spirit. Forms also will run periodically in the print edition of the newspaper.

Award nominations may be mailed to Southeast Missourian, c/o editorial page editor Lucas Presson, P.O. Box 699, Cape Girardeau, MO 63702.

Pertinent address:

301 Broadway, Cape Girardeau, Mo.