Spirit of America

Each year since 2003, the Spirit of America Award has been given by the Southeast Missourian to an individual who best embodies this nation's bedrock ideals. The honor, presented during Cape Girardeau's annual Fourth of July celebration, is the region's highest of its kind.

John "Doc" Yallaly, Dr. Dan Cotner and Melvin Gateley are the previous recipients. The Southeast Missourian will present the 2006 award at the Fourth of July Libertyfest celebration on the riverfront in Cape Girardeau.

Civic clubs, church groups, veterans organizations, Scout troops, sports leagues, school groups, auxiliaries and other organizations may nominate someone for the award. The organization that nominates the winner will receive a $1,000 donation from the Southeast Missourian.

Nomination forms are published periodically in the Southeast Missourian. Nominations should be sent to: Southeast Missourian, c/o managing editor Sam Blackwell, P.O. Box 699, Cape Girardeau, Mo. 63702. They also can be e-mailed to sblackwell@semissourian.com. The deadline for receiving nominations is June 17.

The Cape Girardeau area is known for its family values and its support of patriotic ideals, both of which are reflected in the memberhips of the many organizations and groups that make our community a better place to live. The Spirit of America award is an opportunity to honor a deserving individual for his or her contributions to those values and ideals.