Southeast Missourian taking nominations for Spirit of America Award

The Southeast Missourian again is accepting nominations for its Spirit of America Award, presented July 4.

Celebrating its 13th year, the award recognizes an individual who embodies the spirit of America. 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, Kent Zickfield and Kenneth Bender.

"The 2014 recipient was former state Rep. Mary Kasten," said Lucas Presson, general manager of rustmedia. "Ms. Kasten is a public servant. Not only did she serve for two decades as a state representative, but her community service has helped shape the Cape Girardeau area and beyond. Her involvement with the Community Caring Council is a particular mark of distinction."

Presson explained the Southeast Missourian Spirit of America Award recognizes a person who upholds the principles and ideals of the nation. Award recipients represent a range of service, from military to community and church to other public service.

"Patriotism and service include many things. Several Southeast Missourian Spirit of America recipients served in the military, while others have been community-focused, helping drive initiatives and support worthy causes," Presson said.

This year's recipient will be recognized at the City of Cape Girardeau's Great American Fourth of July celebration, and a $1,000 cash prize will be awarded to the nominating organization.

If the recipient is nominated by an individual, the award recipient will direct the cash prize to a charity.

For those who wish to nominate a candidate online, visit semissourian.com/spirit or fill out the form regularly printed in the Southeast Missourian.

The deadline to nominate is June 11.

All nominees will be previewed in the July 2 print edition of the Southeast Missourian.

For more information, contact Presson at 388-3649 or at lpresson@rustmedia.com.

smaue@semissourian.com

388-3644