Seeking Spirit nominations

Do you know someone who embodies the spirit of America?

Someone who has given of himself or herself for the benefit of many? Someone who has shown courage under duress or grace under pressure? Someone whose contributions have improved a community?

Now is the time to nominate that person for the Southeast Missourian's Spirit of America Award.

Readers in Cape Girardeau, Perry, Bollinger, Stoddard and Scott counties in Missouri, and Union, Pulaski and Alexander counties in Illinois are invited to submit nominations for the 10th recipient of the award. The award will be given at the Fourth of July celebration in Cape Girardeau. A $1,000 cash prize will be awarded to the local charity or civic group of his or her choice. All nominations will be featured in a special section.

The deadline for nominations is June 15.

To nominate someone for the Spirit of America Award, find the ad in the Good Times section of today's newspaper, or go online to www.semissourian.com/forms/spirit.

The past Spirit of America winners are:

David Hitt, 2011

Rob Callahan, 2010

Harry Rediger, 2009

Jane Randol Jackson, 2008

James Harnes Sr., 2007

Neal Edwards, 2006

Melvin Gateley, 2005

Dr. Dan Cotner, 2004

John "Doc" Yallaly, 2003

That's an impressive list of names. We look forward to adding to it this Independence Day.