Red-CrossThe Iowa chapter of the Red Cross has launched its annual “hunt” for heroes. Kara Kelly, spokesperson for the Red Cross in Central Iowa, says they’re now accepting nominations for the Heroes of the Heartland awards.

“It could be outstanding work in the community, it could be a lifesaving act like performing CPR or saving somebody in a water rescue,” Kelly suggests. Nominations can be submitted online at: www.redcross.org/local/ia/celebrating-heroes. The submission deadline in February 12.

The individuals chosen for the awards will be recognized for their “extraordinary acts of courage” at four events to be held around the state in the coming months. Those events will take place in Dubuque on March 17, Des Moines on April 8, Sioux City on April 14, and Ottumwa on April 22. Those recognition events also serve as the biggest fundraisers of the year for the Red Cross in Iowa.