Nominations are now being accepted for the Flash Family Inspirational Award (FFIA), which honors a Mercer Island senior adult (55 and older) who exemplifies the spirit of good sportsmanship or community leadership, and who possesses an optimistic attitude and friendly demeanor while acting as a role model to others.

The city invites all residents to nominate a citizen whom they think deserves to be recognized for embodying the spirit of this award.

As Phil Flash once said, this award should be given to a community member who: “Keeps busy, exercises, eats healthy food, never, ever sweats the small stuff, and always stays positive.” Phil Flash passed away in April 2015.

The winning recipient of the FFIA rides as a “Hometown Hero” in the Summer Celebration Parade on Saturday, July 14, receives a gift, and has their name added to the perpetual plaque inside the Mercer Island Community and Event Center.

Nomination forms are available online or in person at the Community Center or the city’s Youth and Family Services office in Luther Burbank Park. You can also request a form to be mailed by calling (206) 275-7754. The deadline for submissions is June 22.