Honoring the heroes around us

You see, there are heroes all around us, all the time. They walk by us on the sidewalk, and they sit next to us in class … In a world that can be cruel and selfish, it’s this knowledge — the knowledge that we are inclined to love one another, that we’re inclined to do good, to be good — that causes us to take heart. — President Barack Obama

Do you know someone who deserves to be recognized for heroism — for exhibiting courage in the face of danger, for putting himself or herself on the line for others, for being willing to sacrifice everything to do what’s right?

Nominate your hero to be recognized at the first Hy-Vee Heroes game — the much-anticipated football matchup between Big 10 powerhouse Iowa and conference newcomer Nebraska. In conjunction with both universities and the American Red Cross, Hy-Vee will honor two heroes — one from Iowa, one from Nebraska — at the Hy-Vee Heroes game on Friday, November 25 in Lincoln. The honorees will be recognized at the game and have their names permanently inscribed on the Heroes trophy that will be claimed by the winning team.

Visit any Iowa or Nebraska Hy-Vee store for nomination forms, or use the online form on the Hy-Vee website. Nominations are due by October 31, 2011. All those submitting nominations will have the chance to be entered in a drawing for four tickets to this historic first conference meeting between Iowa and Nebraska.

The Heroes Game also provides an opportunity to support an organization doing heroic work in the heartland — the American Red Cross. You can make a $10 contribution to the Red Cross by texting 90999 and typing IOWA (for the Iowa Chapter) or NEBRASKA (for the Nebraska Chapter).