GULF SHORES, Ala. — There is no doubt that living along the Gulf Coast is truly one of the main attractions that brings people to south Baldwin County.

Many, however, want to believe that southern hospitality and the kind actions of people are what truly distinguishes Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, Fort Morgan and Ono Island from anywhere else in the state.

It is with that thought in mind that the Island Spirit Award was created more than 20 years ago.

The award is given monthly by the Alabama Gulf Coast Chamber of Commerce to an individual who works on the island and displays an attitude of concern, warmth and hospitality to those they serves.

“I think it started simply when a gathering of some local business people were discussing those folks who go beyond what they are asked to do,” said Nora Mandoki, the committee chairperson who helps select the Island Spirit Award winner each month.

Mandoki, who owns Mandoki Hospitality, says the committee is looking for individuals who most often have direct contact with customers and visitors to the island.

“We are looking to recognize the front line people who deal with the public on a regular basis,” Mandoki said.

The Chamber of Commerce has a form for those who want to nominate someone for the award, but Vicki Stillings, communications director for the Chamber, said that often times they will receive a hand-written note.

“All types of workers get nominated,” Stillings said. “Bank tellers, police officers, service station attendants. But it is not always for what they did on the job. We’ve had a police officer receive the award for his extra duty he performed during a tragic accident, but it has also been given to someone for returning a lost wallet.”

While the number of nominations varies from month to month, Mandoki said that over a year’s time, 50-75 people will be nominated to receive the Island Spirit Award.

“Sometimes we will get letters from a vacationer regarding their interaction with a local citizen, and other times it will be from a business owner on behalf of one of their employees,” Mandoki said.

Any individual working on Alabama’s Gulf Coast qualifies for the prestigious award.

The Island Spirit Award includes the placement of the recipient’s name on a rotation plaque, a cash award, an article with picture in the newspaper, a custom made “Island Spirit” pin, and of course the appreciation of all who love this island paradise.

Island Spirit award nomination forms are available by e-mailing the chamber at communications@alagulfcoastchamber.com.