I know this is going to embarrass some people and will likely infuriate at least one, but I thought it worthwhile to give recognition to a few people who deserve it. This is by no means an exhaustive list, and I hope others will add to it. I will refrain from naming those already granted sainthood in the Mudcat religion (I guess saints outrank heroes) although some of you will likely think they are worth mention here as well. Here are my first nominees:

The Fighting the Good Fight award goes to Big Mick for his valiant struggle to save the labor movement.

The Humanitarian award recipient goes to (imagine envelope being torn open) Night Owl for her work in rescuing souls lost in some emotional terra incognita.

The Indomitable Humor award (aka the Grace Under Pressure award) is shared by Art Thieme and Catspaw.

Here's a special list of recipients of the Friend in Need award: Helen, Bert, Leej, Katlaughinginembarrassment, Frank in the Swamps, and Big RiB.

Come on, guys: don't let the forces of darkness dominate the cafe. Turn the lights on again. --seed