ONTONAGON – While the Ontonagon County Economic Development Corporation seeks donations for operating expenses, it will reinstate its Spirit Award.

“It’s a way to reward a person for going above and beyond,” Ontonagon EDC member Skip Schulz said. “All it is is to thank someone.”

While members liked the award idea, financial concerns arose since the corporation hasn’t had much money in its coffers. In fact, the EDC recently received private donations totaling $1,975, but needs $2,300 to fund its operation through September.

“I’m not saying it can’t be done,” said the EDC’s Sue Preiss, expressing concern about any added expenses. To keep costs to a minimum, the EDC decided on a professionally-printed paper award to be presented in a donated frame.

“Possibly the cost of this award could be covered by a sponsor, who would be on the award…and all press releases,” Schulz said.

“This award is to be given to an individual, business, organization, church, event or project,” Schulz said in a memo to the board last week. “It is an annual award to acknowledge, commemorate, congratulate and/or depict the ‘spirit’ of cooperation, and dedication to the people, resources, economy and promotion of Ontonagon County.”

Nominations will be due at the EDC’s first meeting in January, and will be announced at the second meeting. The award will be presented amid Ontonagon’s Labor Day 2017 festivities.