Mary Jane Palmer 'I Love Middletown' Award

Nominations are being accepted by the Middletown Community Foundation for its first annual Mary Jane Palmer “I Love Middletown” Award. The award aims to honor the community’s “unsung heroes” who make significant contributions to Middletown’s quality of life but are otherwise not recognized for their efforts.

Palmer, founder and owner of Palmer Temps, died on December 1, 2007, from cancer. Upon her death, the fund was established at the Middletown Community Foundation in her memory.

“I am pleased that Mary Jane’s dedication to Middletown will continue on with the ‘I Love Middletown’ award,” said her husband, Richard Nunlist. “She contributed her time to many boards and organizations in an effort to help Middletown prosper. Through Palmer Temps and her charitable work she was able to help Middletown and its residents to be their best. She truly believed you get back what you give. I am looking forward to the recognition of the future winners of the ‘I Love Middletown’ award.”

The recipient will be chosen by a selection committee and honored at the Middletown Community Foundation’s Annual Meeting on November 6 at The Manchester. The organization for which he or she volunteers will receive a cash award of $1,000.

“Everyone I’ve heard speak of Mary Jane since I moved to Middletown has had a smile when they remember her,” explained Middletown Community Foundation Executive Director T. Duane Gordon. “They speak of her love for this city, her vibrancy, her enthusiasm, her big heart and a smile that stretched from Indiana to Pennsylvania. I know I missed out on something big for not having had the opportunity to meet her, but I feel very privileged that the Community Foundation is able to further her vision for our community through this award.”

Nominations are asked to be submitted to the Middletown Community Foundation by September 15. Individuals, groups of individuals or organizations may be nominated. The submission should include details of the nominee’s contributions to Middletown and may be sent via e-mail to info@mcfoundation.org, by fax to 513-424-7555 or by mail to 36 Donham Plaza, Middletown, OH 45042. Tax-deductible contributions to the fund may also be mailed to this address.