It’s not too late for community members to nominate the unsung heroes in our community for a 2009 Crystal Award.

The Crystal Awards, an annual program presented by the East Lansing City Council, honors the individuals, groups, organizations, businesses and commercial enterprises that have gone above and beyond to enhance the quality of life in East Lansing. This year marks the 22^nd year of the program, which in years past has honored the likes of Howard Ballein, Jack Thompson, Liz Schweitzer, Kevin Epling, Rollie Ledebuhr and countless other community leaders.

I encourage you to nominate the individuals, groups, organizations, businesses and commercial enterprises that you believe have made a positive impact on our great community through their actions and contributions. There is no limit on the number of nominations you can submit and it’s fairly easy to do: Simply visit the City of East Lansing Web site, www.cityofeastlansing.com, to submit a form online or visit East Lansing City Hall, the East Lansing Public Library or the East Lansing Hannah Community Center to pick up a paper form.

Nominations will be accepted until 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 17 and will then be reviewed by a selection committee. As nominators, community members will be contacted by a member of the selection committee to discuss respective nominations.

Three nominees and one business will be selected and recognized during the 2009 Crystal Awards public reception on Thursday, April 23 at 5 p.m. at the East Lansing Hannah Community Center. The reception, open and free to the public, typically brings together many local activists and community supporters to recognize those who stand out in our community for their ongoing commitment to making this City a great place in which to live.