Nominate someone who's a positive influence on Elgin

Elgin's Image Advisory Commission is now seeking nominations for its prestigious Image Awards which annually recognize individuals, businesses or organizations that have had a positive impact on Elgin. The deadline to submit nominations is Jan. 28.

Each year, the Image Advisory Commission recognizes image-enhancing and beautification efforts and has honored such organizations and businesses as Provena St. Joseph Hospital and Al's Cafe and Creamery.

The commission also has honored many individuals and numerous projects including Senior Services Associates activities director Jennifer Almanza, the Elgin Area Historical Society and the Seigle Family Foundation.

There are five categories for the annual awards including organizations or businesses individual/professional, individual/volunteer, and projects, such as special events, fundraising projects and neighborhood improvements.

Nomination forms can be filled out online and submitted by going to the city's Web site at www.cityofelgin.org. Check out the "quick links" section on the home page and click on 2007 Image Award Nomination Form.

In addition to the Image Awards, the commission also presents a citizenship award, which is designed to recognize individuals whose outstanding activities and efforts exemplify the meaning of citizenship. Last year, local historian and former teacher Mike Alft was awarded the honor.

Winners are selected by members of the Image Advisory Commission, and will be honored at the annual Image Awards event scheduled for March 13 at The Centre of Elgin, 100 Symphony Way.

For information, call Sue Olafson, public information officer, at (847) 931-5601.