Terry Harper gave SPJ and the Sigma Delta Chi Foundation seven years of energy and passion, helping to create the strong organization we are today. As you may know, Terry passed away June 2 after a two-year battle with brain cancer. To honor Terry’s legacy and to commemorate his service to the Society, the Foundation and journalists around the world, SPJ will establish a lasting tribute that will be announced during the 2009 SPJ Convention & National Journalism Conference in August.

To help fund the tribute, proceeds from this year’s annual auction – which historically have gone to the Legal Defense Fund -- will go to honor Terry.

Local chapters are encouraged to donate a Regional Basket of goodies that is representative of the chapter’s area, and individuals may also donate items and services to the auction. Editorial cartoons, original art and news or historic photographs are especially popular each year.

Once baskets or items are assembled, please ship or deliver them to Awards Coordinator Lauren Rochester at national headquarters:

3909 N. Meridian St.
Indianapolis, IN 46208

Items should arrive in Indianapolis by July 31, 2009. We are unable to accept items on-site. A donation form must be included with your item. Please direct all inquiries to Lauren Rochester at 317-927-8000 ext. 210 or lrochester@spj.org. More information can also be found on our Web site.

We sincerely appreciate your consideration for donating. The lasting tribute to Terry will uphold SPJ’s mission, furthering Terry’s legacy and that of the organization he influenced so greatly.