When talking to Larry Crandall, president of the SAMMI Awards Foundation, he is always quick to point out how the SAMMIs are not about a simple award, but the stories of the people who work, live and play on the Sammamish plateau.

Nominations for the 15th annual SAMMI Awards are now open. The awards will be announced at the SAMMI Award Ceremony at the EX3 Teen Center on March 21, 2015.

Since 2000 SAMMI, which stands for Sammamish Acknowledging Magnificent Moments of Inspiration, has been recognizing the people who make life in Sammamish better for their neighbors and the community as a whole.

“It’s important for the community to hear the stories of their service,” Crandall said. “It brings the community together.”

While the number of SAMMIs awarded varies from year to year according to Crandall, on average 10 people are honored per year following evaluations by a panel of judges. Awards are given in categories for long service, community spirit, courage, environmental stewardship and youth spirit.

Above all, the goal and the spirit of the SAMMIs is to bring Sammamish together in celebration.

“This is a feel-good, win-win kind of thing,” Crandall said. “I know it’s kind of passé, but it is also the whole point of the SAMMI awards.”

Applications need to be turned in online or by mail by Dec. 8. For more information or to nominate someone online, visit www.sammiawards.org.