Nominate someone who has the Spirit of America

Diverse. Principled. Hardworking. Helpful. Patriotic.

The description of a "true American" can be tough to pin down. But when you meet someone who has the American spirit, you just know.

Many in our local communities embody what it is to be an American. Often they carry on quietly with their business and activities, happy to remain in the background while trying to improve the lives of those around them. But in our opinion, they deserve to be recognized for their contributions. And that is why 14 years ago, the Southeast Missourian established the Spirit of America Award, presented at the annual Fourth of July celebration in Cape Girardeau.

The time has come to nominate that friend, coworker or family member you think embodies the American spirit. Nominations are welcome from Cape Girardeau, Perry, Bollinger, Scott and Stoddard counties in Missouri and Pulaski, Alexander and Union counties in Illinois, and may come from individuals or organizations. If the winner is nominated by an organization, that organization will receive the $1,000 cash prize. If the winner is nominated by an individual, the recipient will choose a charity as the beneficiary.

Nominations may be submitted online at semissourian.com/spirit, or via forms that regularly appear in the Missourian. The deadline is June 14.

Past Spirit of America winners include Jerry Ford, Mary Kasten, Dr. Dan Cotner, Melvin Gateley, Harry Rediger, Kent Zickfield and Ken Bender, among others.

We look forward to seeing everyone's nominations and hope you make plans to join us at the city's Fourth of July celebration.

All nominees will be recognized in the July 1 Southeast Missourian.