Foundation – (noun): the basis on which a thing stands, is founded, or is supported.

While the first thing that comes to mind with that aforementioned definition are the foundations that support our homes, businesses and churches, that word can also be interpreted in a whole other sense.

Think back to the days of yesteryear. Think of how your place of business or the career path you choose to lead. How did that business start…does it remain a local institution today…who were the people that took your hand and offered guidance and support as you embarked on a professional career?

Those questions will be answered beginning today (Saturday) and throughout the month of February as the Roanoke-Chowan News-Herald publishes its annual “Crossroads” edition.

With an overall theme this year of “From Whence We Came,” the News-Herald invites its readers to enjoy a four-week historical journey.

Today, readers will enjoy peering back into the early days and the evolvement of health and education in the Roanoke-Chowan area. There are six intriguing stories of how family members shaped the future of their loved ones in the fields of teaching and medicine.

On ensuing Saturdays (Feb. 14, 21 and 28), join the News-Herald as we tell the past/present stories of those involved in “Commerce and Industry,” “Our Faith” and “Community.”

As a grand finale in early March, the Roanoke-Chowan News-Herald will announce its “Newsmaker of the Year” for 2008. Additionally, the newspaper’s staff is in the midst of soliciting nominations for “Unsung Heroes.”

The criteria for nominating such a person or group as an “Unsung Hero” is simple. These are individuals or non-profit entities who traditionally shun the spotlight in an effort to promote their cause.

Such people/groups are, for example, those who reach out and help others less fortunate; share their knowledge of a craft (art, woodworking, knitting, etc.); are extremely active in their church; or are proactive in youth or senior citizen activities.

The News-Herald is soliciting nominations through Wednesday, Feb. 11. All nominations will be reviewed by employees of the newspapers. Those whose actions are deemed the most worthy will be presented an “Unsung Hero” of the Year plaque at a special function hosted by Roanoke-Chowan Publications, LLC. That function will also salute the 2008 “Newsmaker of the Year.”

Additionally, each of the winners will have a feature article, with an accompanying photo, published in a special edition in March.

To submit a nomination, simply provide the name, address and telephone number of the person/group you feel is worthy of such an honor. Also include a brief write-up on why you think this person/group is an “Unsung Hero.”

Nominations can be taken to the Roanoke-Chowan News-Herald office in Ahoskie (intersection of Main Street and Catherine Creek Road), mailed to “Unsung Heroes” PO Box 1325, Ahoskie, NC 27910, faxed to 252-332-3940 or e-mailed to cal.bryant@r-cnews.com.