November 19, 2010

CARY, NC – Long-time Cary resident, Town of Cary Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources Advisory Board member and 2006 Town of Cary Cultural Arts Volunteer of the Year winner Kay Struffolino is the recipient of the Town of Cary’s annual Hometown Spirit Award, which is designed to recognize community-minded citizens who enhance the quality of life in Cary by preserving, promoting and carrying out positive small town community values and traits. The Town Council honored all eight nominees at a reception before last night’s regular Cary Town Council meeting for their unique contributions to the community. Struffolino received a plaque, and the Town will recognize her on a plaque inside Town Hall. This is the second year the Hometown Spirit Award has been given.

"This is a humbling experience. I am grateful for all the opportunities available to become involved in this community that I love,” said Struffolino at last night’s meeting.

Inspired by a suggestion from Cary citizen William Clifton Barnes, Hometown Spirit Award nominees had to demonstrate leadership and integrity and be respected by peers. In addition, they had to exemplify at least one of the following criteria: helps out neighbors and fellow Cary residents; demonstrates hospitality; promotes and preserves traditional American past-times; shows a concern for preservation and works to preserve traditions and the small-town atmosphere in the community; promotes entrepreneurship through supporting locally owned business; promotes a sense of community in their neighborhood and all of Cary; demonstrates patriotism through promotion and preservation of the country's symbols and dedication to the U.S. military, past and present; and serves the community through business.

Cary residents age 21 and older were eligible for the award. In addition to Struffolino, this year’s nominees included: Michael Carlton, George Donanich, Jason Harloff, Rosalind Heiko, Ruth Merkle, Gay Purvis and Cynthia Sinkez.

For more information, visit Hometown Spirit Award at www.townofcary.org or call (919) 469-4011.

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PRIMARY CONTACTS: 
Sue Rowland, Town Clerk, (919) 469-4011
Deanna Boone, Deputy Public Information Officer, (919) 462-3908
Susan Moran, Public Information Director, (919) 460-4951